May 19, 2018 Of Osun Defender Online Version

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VOL. 013. NO.19

ISSN: 0794-8050

N100

Osun Probes Procurement Contracts e2 g Pa

Court Stops Installation Ramadan: Osun Gov., Assembly, SSG Call For Expression Of Love, Prayers Of Osun Monarch Court Remands Two Suspected Cultists In Prison Over Alleged Murder P. 3

P. 11

PAGE 15

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Osun Probes Procurement Contracts conduct of their to stash government boast of a public admonished the

By Solomon Odeniyi respective officials who funds and the expected procurement manual, the participants to always In a bid to ensure transparency and accountability are in charge of public service delivery often establishment follow due process in all of in the process of public procurements across the State procurement. procurement cadre in the they do, so as to avoid time are not delivered. of Osun, the government has inaugurated auditors Also, the Project He lauded Ogbeni civil service. This among procurement cases and to probe all procurement contracts from 2015 till date. Coordinator of SLOGOR, Rauf Aregbesola others, he said, would the stiff punishment Yemi Ijidele enjoined public prescribed for defaulters, administration for regulate The team of Auditors the various MDAs in no account officers on the creating an agency for procurement processes noting that the whistle comprises of recognized distant time. policy of the On the reason behind need and strive to change public procurement with and definitely block blowing i n d e p e n d e n t government has shown procurement auditors the One day sensitization the negative narratives highly technical and leakages in the state. that there is no hiding The Head of Service, place for any who are professionally program, Fatoberu said at about them, especially the administrative capacity nefarious that, which has made the state Mr. Festus activities by anyone in the qualified and would be the end of the day, his perception assisted by public agency would have been accounting officers help government to be able to O l o w o g b o y e g a country. procurement agency able to sensitize the accounting officers, who staffers.

They (auditors) would are the head of each look into all public MDAs, as to the procurement contracts provisions, guidelines the sanctions within the stipulated time and when the law was prescribed by the law in order to guide the enacted. of public According to the Acting conduct process in General Manager, Public procurement their various agencies.

Procurement Agency, Mr. He added that as the Ayo Fatoberu, the sensitization anchors on government has given a t r a n s p a r e n c y , directive that the agency accountability and value must be able to give a for money, the bulk of the clean slate for all contract works rest on the that were awarded from shoulders of the account 2015 till date. officers, who are He added: “Like we accountable for the have the financial audit money realised and which looks into the spent. books and account of The Acting General agency in order to know Manager of the Agency if the funds received have enjoined the various been used judiciously, participants to go back to their function essentially their various agencies is to make sure the law and ensure proper has not been bye-passed. dissemination of the •(L-R) President Muhammadu Buhari, National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Ahmed Let us say for instance, the provisions of the law and Tinubu and the APC governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi when Buhari hosted the South West threshold for approval is allow it to guide the caucus of the APC to a dinner at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Wednesday.

N10million for an agency; nobody is allowed to split the money in order to circumvent the He stated that N10million ceiling”. is yet to witness farmer/ helped in averting clashes

By Solomon Odeniyi sometimes, some courts He revealed that herders attack. in a great deal.”

The magic wand responsible for curtailing the hearing farmers/herders He added that: “We machinery has been set in Togun said over 10,000 menace of marauding Fulani herdsmen from motion in accordance degenerating into the farmer/herdsmen crisis remain the only state not herders have been cases, refer to the with the procurement witnessed in other state of the federation has been to have witnessed farmers registered and each cow committee to resolve been assigned issues anytime they are law, and like the financial revealed over the weekend during the forum between and herders clash like it has with the had been witnessed in numbers which has saddled auditors, their the governor and the stakeholders in Osogbo. responsibility. some states of the allowed for easy procurement counterpart Aside the committee set The commissioner for Togun who doubles as country.

Though the identification of cows and up, the commissioner also would be attached to Special Duties, Mr the chairman of the crisis has not been as various agencies, adding Mudashiru highlighted the other Togun committee described the pronounced as we have herders.

He added that the data things put in place to that the team is already attributed the peace institution of the now, in 2014 the governor carrying out this crucial witnessed so far to the committee as apt and instituted our committee capturing has also made ensure peace among exercise and some of its committee set up by the timely, noting that it with a mandate to look it difficult for cow rustling farmers/herders which assisting the include; the establishment agents would be visiting government in 2014. remains the reasons Osun into how to prevent such and from happening in the government on easy and of nomadic schools for the early identification of Fulanis, the appointment state. Since 2014 the committee has settled herders with harmful of the chairman of the Fulani herders as the amicably over 6,000 cases intentions.

He noted that a couple personal assistant to the between farmers and governor on peaceful of herders who the herders.

“The prompt response committee was not coexistence and the of the present to reported cases and the satisfied with their construction of no fewer

By Mariam Bello administration in the uprightness of members practice have been sent than 13 boreholes in their domiciles among others.

Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s administration in state to the of the committee have packing. the State of Osun has for the umpteenth time been empowerment of the commended for its unprecedented track record on unemployed population social protection. and eradication of This commendation supports received by the poverty at large.

Edena, Oroto and other

By Sola Jacobs parts of the town. came from the National NDE with specific Mr. Ifaturoti who was The officer lamented Directorate of mention of the assurance represented by the Head In its effort to rid the ancient city of criminal Employment (NDE) gotten to take care of of Operations, Osun elements, men of the Nigeria Police Force, Division the rate at which the starter packs worth youths, especially young through its State of Osun YESSO, Mr. Sola Adetoye ‘A’ Moore Ile-Ife raided black spots within Ife school leavers who Coordinator, Mr. Sola millions of naira for enjoined the Osun Skills metropolis last week.

During one of the some of the suspects who should have taken up Babalola in Oshogbo beneficiaries of the Skills for Job Team to make the during the mining of for Job programme, best use of the list of raids, carried out in Oja belong to “Eye and vocational skill decided engage in the State potential beneficiaries Tuntun area as witnessed “Aye” Confraternity” to Osun YESSO (SOCU)’s assured unproductive ventures 3rd and 4th rounds of the Operation Coordinating mined from the Single by OSUN DEFENDER at had been breaching such as cultism and other the ancient city, about Single Register of the Unit ( Osun YESSO) of Register of the Poor and eight suspects were public peace, conducting forms of criminal themselves in violent Poor and Vulnerable maximum commitment Vulnerable Households apprehended in a ghetto activities within the activities.

Households (SRPVH) by of his team to the success painstakingly generated behind the famous metropolis.

A social critic in Ile-Ife, the Osun NDE’s of Skills of the laudable initiative. and domiciled at the market.

The source disclosed Mr Biodun Kafidiya In his remarks at the State of Osun Operation for Job (S4J) component youths According to a police that some members of the blamed event, the State Coordinating Unit, Osun source, the raid become cults have been charged involvement in criminal of Osun YESSO. Osun YESSO, with a view to imperative as cultism to court, while police has activities to high rate of Mr. Babalola who Coordinator, equally appreciated the YESSO, Mr. Olufemi ensuring that the and violence had been on intensified efforts to unemployment which present administration Ifaturoti intimated the laudable initiative the increase in Ile-Ife and arrest others at large who has made artisans to Skills for Job Team of the are involved in breach of boycott their trades for for innumerable achieve its intended goal. its environs. continued commitment The source added that public peace in Igbodo, •Continued on page 3

How Osun Curtailed Farmers/Herders Clash

NDE Commends Osun Track Record On Social Protection Programmes

Police Raids Black Spots In Ile-Ife

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Court Stops Installation Of Osun Monarch An Osun State High Court sitting in Ede has restrained the state government from the processes for the installation of one Jelili Oyedokun from Ogunwale Ruling House as the new Alaro of Aro in Egbedore Local Government Council of the state.

The court presided over by Justice A. O Oyebiyi in a ruling delivered on representing the state May 3rd 2018 said the government that the processes should be government had already stopped pending the approved the determination of the suit appointment of Jelili filed by Prince Olakunle Oyedokun and that it Ojo from Ojo/Lawani only awaits the branch of Farinu ruling installation, the state House before the court. government should not In an ex parte motion proceed on the

by Prince Olakunle Ojo installation”. on behalf of the Ojo/ It would be recalled Lawani ruling family, the that the stool of Alaro plaintiff prayed the court became vacant following to order the Osun the demise of the late Government to maintain Alaro in 2015 and since the status quo pending then, there have been the hearing and contests on who to determination of the suit. ascend the throne among In its ruling, the court the princes within the granted an interim royal family. injunction restraining the In the motion ex-parte, state government from Ojo through his lawyer, installing Jelili Oyedokun Mr B Siyanbola accused as the new Alaro.

Oyedokun of conniving The Judge said: with the state “Having listened to both government to ascend parties and especially the the throne through the information released by backdoor. the state counsel According to him, the

Police Raids •Continued from page 2 commercial motorcycle business just to have their daily meal.

He spoke further that trade learning and skill acquisition now become unattractive as artisans could not be patronized because of the economic situation in the country.

He therefore called on government and cooperate individuals to help youths in the area through counseling, family integration, seminar and workshops which could redirect their focus from criminal activities to productive ventures.

Farinu ruling house was to produce the new Alaro and out of three branches of the ruling house, two had reigned (Odefenwa and Ogunwale) leaving

Ojo/Lawani.

He further explained that an enquiry was conducted by the Ministry of Local Government and

Chieftaincy Affairs, between March 19, 2017 and April 3, 2018 which he said further confirmed the legitimacy of Ojo/ Lawani to the throne. He

however alleged Oyedokun of political manipulation.

The Judge thereafter, adjourned the case till May 30, 2018 for hearing.

•A cross section of Photojournalists at the Southern Governors’ Wives Forum programme at Aurora event centre in Osogbo.

Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI

N143.6bn Osun Debt Will Be Settled In 2019

By Ismaeel Uthman The Governor of the state of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has again come out open up on the total debt being owed by the state, saying that all the loans taken would be settled by 2019.

Aregbesola explained the State, Mr Kolawole that the conventional Akintayo to respond and loan would be settled in give the accurate and 2019 while the N11.4bn total amount the state is Sukuk would be fully owing. paid back in 2020.

Akintayo stated that The governor made the the total debt left for the disclosure during an state to pay was interactive programme N143.6bn, against the tagged “Ogbeni Till false figures being Daybreak” held last circulated by members of weekend in Osogbo, the the opposition in the state capital. state.

When asked on exact The Accountant amount the state owes, General said: “Total debt the governor directed the of the State of Osun was Accountant General of N171.4bn in the last

seven years. A sum of N28bn had been paid, leaving a balance of N143.6bn debt.”

Corroborating Akintayo’s statement, Aregbesola said that Osun will settle all the debt in 2019, saying “there will be no kobo left of the N30bn conventional loan in 2019, by September 2020, N11.4bn Sukuk would have been settled.”

Aregbesola said the debt profile of the state is not as bad as being speculated, maintaining that the loans were taken to finance capital projects for the development of the state.

He said: “The reason we borrowed for infrastructural development and not for investment is simple. In a liberal economy like ours, government has no business doing business, the responsibility of government is to provide enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

Commenting on the modulated salary, Aregbesola said that welfare of the workers was paramount to him, just as he appreciated the understanding of the workers, especially during the economic crises that hit the nation and affected the state.

Akande, Aregbesola, Bishop Harp On Religious Tolerance, Love

By Ismaeel Uthman The former Interim National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Nigeria, Chief Adebisi Akande and Governor Rauf Aregbesola of the state of Osun have jointly canvassed for religious tolerance and understanding among Nigerians.

Christianity to stop Akande and preaching religion, if they Aregbesola stated that are ready to address the religion should not be various challenges facing placed above humanity the country. and good character, Instead of preaching saying that is what religion, Olumaikaye defines human being. urged the faithful of the The former and current two religions to preach governor of the state love, tolerance, spoke at a reception understanding and organized for the peace.

Anglican Bishop, Osun According to North East Olumaikaiye, love Diocese, Reverend Dr supersedes every other Humphrey Olumaikaiye preaching and remains

by Akande at his country the only way out of the home in Ila. various challenges They made the confronting the country. statement just as He said: “It is time we Olumaikaiye called on all stop preaching religion faithful from religion, we should be both Islam and preaching love because

the God we worship is a God of love. Love supersedes everything.

We should all preach love, love together in love.

“If we love one another, this country will be great. If we live together in love, you will not harm your neighbour. If we live together in love, you will not be greedy. What is meant for everybody, someone will not corner it.

“We should strive to make life worth living for other people. That is the essence of life. After all, nobody is created to live forever. We are all on borrowed seat; another person will soon occupy it.

“Even when we retire, something will take us from this place and that is death. That is the more

reason to come together and live together in love, do things in love, and by doing that, this country will be great.”

O l u m a i k a i y e commended Akande for his religious tolerance, describing him as a bridge builder between Muslims and Christians in Ila and its environ.

He lauded Aregbesola for the infrastructure development and transformation of the state, describing his administration as focused and progressive.

Speaking, Akande described Olumaikaiye as a godly, friendly, brilliant and d i s t i n g u i s h e d personality who is enlightened beyond religious purpose.

Akande said: “When

you see a distinguished gentleman, where ever he works, whatever his religion, you will appreciate him.

Whatever you are, you are a nature of this world.

“Whatever you are, after you past on, people don’t forget you, you are a leader of the society.

Bishop Olumaikaiye is a d i s t i n g u i s h e d gentleman.”

In his address, Aregbesola said the world will be great if everybody relates with one another as human being in good manner rather than religion.

Aregbesola said religion should not be a factor to determine the existence, stating that each and everybody should be defined based on his or her relationship with the people around him.

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He, however, said that his government has been faithful to the agreement reached with the labour union through the Joint Negotiating Council, noting that political appointees are also being paid modulated salary.

The Governor said: “Osun PS earns salary more than the Deputy Governor of the state. I don’t receive salary and I will not receive forever.

We have good plan for all the workers in the state.

As we pay modulated salary to our workers, so do we pay the political appointees. And if the political appointees said I don’t give them money, it is true. We are in a state of economic emergency.”

A r e g b e s o l a maintained that none of his programmes have failed.

Aregbesola explained further that his government did not promise automatic employment into the state civil service for the 40, 000 Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme (OYES) volunteers, but creating a platform for them to be self-reliant and be gainfully employed.

“We never promised to employ all 40, 000 participants of OYES. Let us be factual, where would government fix them into?

No government can employ all its citizens. What we promised was to create opportunities for the best of them in government and outside of government which we have continued to do up till today.”

‘

Issues & Policy Statement Issued By The Office Of The Governor In Response To The False Allegations Make

By The Osun PDP On Osun’s Finances

PDP And Osun's Finances

‘

On Thursday, May 10, 2018, the state chairman of the opposition PDP in Osun in company of the party’s governorship aspirants which included a professor and a Senator of the Federal Republic, addressed a press conference where he dished out, as usual, a concoction of lies and half truths. This is nothing unusual; it is the party’s stock in trade. These lies were meant to deceive the public, save face in an embarrassing situation or just live up to the reputation of a decimated opposition gasping for breath and giving the puerile and false impression of standing up to a popular government, in order to maintain a stranglehold on its disoriented members that are dumping the party in droves.

The background to this however was the failed Southwest rally it held on Saturday May 5 that was sparsely attended and which drew sustained criticisms for the wantonness and vandalism of the Freedom Square venue the state government magnanimously allowed them to use.

This was even as the State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, led the APC to a goodwill town hall visit to the nine federal constituencies in the state which witnessed massive turnout and uproarious reception.

The fake press conference was therefore a desperate attempt to change the narrative on the soaring popularity of Governor Aregbesola and the APC in contrast to the dwindling fortunes of the PDP in the state and all over the country.

We therefore have the following to say on the cacophonic baloney concocted by the PDP on the account of the state. · The primary source of the information relied upon was the state audited account for 2015 and 2016 that

The state government has had to use huge sums to repay debts. These debts date back to the old Oyo State. Aregbesola’s administration inherited a total of N19.9 billion debt incurred by the previous PDP administration. These debts were owed UBA, Zenith Bank and Sterling Bank.

had been publicly presented with fanfare on April 4 this year. It is therefore curious how the state’s account transparently presented to the public could be a source from which the opposition will draw allegations of financial impropriety. For the avoidance of doubt, Osun is the only state among the six participating states in the State and Local Governance Reform (SLOGOR) Project that publicly presented its account for three years running. Others are Anambra, Cross River, Jigawa, Kano and Yobe. · The PDP got its facts wrong by claiming that the Office of the Governor spent N6.3 billion in 2016. It was actually N9.7 billion. N4.8 billion was also expended in 2015, as against N1.2 billion falsely claimed by PDP. But it is a display of monumental fiscal ignorance to ascribe the Office of the Governor to the person of Governor Rauf Aregbesola. There are 28 agencies under the Office of the Governor.

These are: Osun Park and Gardens; Wife of the Governor; Office of Regional Integration; Bureau of Government House and Protocols; Christian Welfare Board; Muslim Welfare Board; Public Procurement Agency; Osun State Sports Council; Office of the Deputy Governor; Public Service Office; Special Project Office; Sustainable Development Goals; O’Jobs; Office of Human Resources; Bureau of Public Service Pension; Office of Economic Development and

question that agitates the mind is “can three sailors control a ship or three drivers control the same car simultaneously? The answer, which is yes or no indicates that nothing is impossible if love is the order of the day. If the masters are to rule, love

comes first, cooperation follows while unity remains important.

Our heroes, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Dr. Nnamidi Azikwe who ruled as the Premier did their best for Nigeria.

They developed each region with what is available within their capacity and their works still remain firmly till today.

However, in the

Western region then headed by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, he developed human and laid a good infrastructure foundation which some of his disciples now build upon since he left office. In education alone, he established a prestigeous

world class university which has produced great professors in the society.

In industry, some of our past political leaders left a good legacy by establishing industrial estates that housed some of the industries that propelled the economy and engage a lot of young ones in the country.

Therefore, a good leader must promote good governance at all

4

million on ‘infrastructure maintenance’. This is false. The sum was expended on ‘infrastructure acquisition’. There is a world of difference between ‘acquisition’ and ‘maintenance’. · The state government has had to use huge sums to repay debts. These debts date back to the old Oyo State.

Aregbesola’s administration inherited a total of N19.9 billion debt incurred by the previous PDP administration.

These debts were owed UBA, Zenith Bank and Sterling Bank. As it is evident to all, the bonds were used efficiently for infrastructure development. The state government also took more than N25 billion loan to pay workers salaries and it was in order to avoid cumulating debts to pay workers salaries that the government adopted the modulated salary structure arrangement.

It is perplexing therefore for the PDP to make a mountain out of the molehill and in the process expose itself to ridicule and public opprobrium with the expression of monumental ignorance on simple fiscal matters.

That the PDP leadership, with its governorship aspirants, do not know the difference between the Office of the Governor and the person of the governor is more than shameful – it is egregious. It is unthinkable that these people have been in one leadership position or another and are angling to rule the state. This faux pas has morally disqualified them from any leadership position. They have demonstrated their unsuitability to govern the state.

The media and the public are enjoined to be wary of the inanities of the PDP leadership who are certified confusionists that have perfected the art of lying and public deception.

•Sola Fasure, Media Adviser to the Governor.

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Partnership; Policy and Economic Team; Office of Forestry, Natural and Mineral Resources; Office of Policy Coordination; Bureau of General Services; Osun State Emergency Management Agency; Bureau of Lands; O’Honey; United Nations Development Programme; Osun State Agency for the Control of AIDS; Sustainable Development Goals; and Bureau of Communications and Strategy. These are the agencies which received the budgetary allocation under reference, not the person of the governor. · A breakdown of the 2016 sum reveals that N648 million was spent on personnel, N2.5 billion on overhead while N4.99 billion was spent on pension, making a total N8.1billion.

The balance of N1.56b was expended on capital acquisition and other critical expenditures. · It is ridiculous and the height of mischief to claim that the state government spent N1.8 million on health in 2016. Capital project and project funded on health was to the tune of a total sum of N498 million in 2016. Hospital Management Board in 2016 also got N1.5 billion. Capital projects in health were also carried out under Sustainable Development Goals and the Ministry of Health. · PDP also claimed that the Office of the Governor spent N276 Publisher

OSUN DEFENDER

People Should Fight For Good Governance The great democratic path of the society begins to crumble when it is full of thorns and shades of darkness. It is observed that despite fights and struggle for power in Nigeria, there is nothing to show for it.

One keeps wandering in the wilderness of democratic flows like a drunkard who slept off its worries as there is no savior for all bleeding hearts.

There is no doubt, most of us have forgotten the colonization of our country, the Biafran war and other intercommunity and tribal wars where many lives were lost in a twinkle of an eye. If the British colonized Nigerian, should Nigerians colonize their fellowmen? And if the colonists enslaved us, should we also enslave ourselves? There are reasons for the amalgamation of the Hausas, Yoruba and Igbos after 1914 but the

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cost which will benefit mankind.

But nowadays, reversed is the case among our leaders, they only have pleasure in perishable materials, not thinking of developing human resources.

All they understand today is embezzling the public fund, they convert government properties to their own in the name of greediness.

Therefore, it is a basic duty of voters to promote good governance within his or her domain by making good use of their voter’s card during the periodic election. An average voter can make life better for himself by making sure that he votes in line with his conscience and not for money.

The duty of a good and responsible leader is to promote the welfare and ensure the progress of his people; it is a duty he owes them!

•SAMSON AJAYI, Federal Polytechnic Offa

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Ogbeni Till Daybreak:

Unveiling The Success Stories, Debt Position, Others Governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola last week Friday till dawn of Saturday addressed the people of the State of Osun through the state interactive programme tagged Ogbeni Till Daybreak. Osun Defender team was there. Excerpt The Governor’s Tour To All The Nine Federal Constituencies It is clear that the party that has been criticizing us for embarking on that tour is grossly incompetent and unfit to govern any reasonable state, because if you would not take people for granted, you must ensure that you engage them particularly on the things our administration has done over the years.

Whichever part of Osun you are in today, there is a clear difference between Osun of pre-Aregbesola and Osun during Aregbesola. You don’t even need to stress yourself to notice these things, and because we are human, it is very easy to forget that Osun has moved by the speed of light within the period we assumed office. Interestingly, most people do not know that the period we have spent so far is 25 days less than the period the party we succeeded spent.

We are yet to equal them in number of days spent in office, yet, we have so much surpassed them that whoever was here on November 26, 2010 will not believe it is the same state.

So, the movement round the state was to register this very clear and unmistakable difference between the impact of Aregbesola administration and that of the PDP. The tour was very successful, measuring from the response from our party members, the comments of traditional rulers and the people in the course of the tour.

Media Coverage Challenge We are not in any way affected or bothered by their activities. I remain one of the few governors in the country that is still popular till now. How many governors can still move about their towns, street and compound and receive enthusiastic encomium and adulation from the people, not many. I am one of the few that attract ecstatic reactions from the people anywhere I go. I thank God for this. If they derive joy discrediting us, we will not be distracted. We will continue to affect positively the life of our people, and those media outfit that value good governance will celebrate us. Let those that are hellbent to run us down continue, life will not stop. We will continue to do things that have endeared us to the people.

West Senatorial District Agitations For Governorship.

The agitations for zoning should be left to me, I am a politicians and we know how to resolve this. Politicians know how to manage their problems

•Governor Rauf Aregbesola painstakingly reading through Osun Defender Newspaper at the programme.

The over draft we took to pay salaries between 2014 and 2015 was the bulk fund of the money converted to the federal government bond which is the most excruciating debt burden we have. To avoid such burdens was the reason we negotiated with the workers unions that the state could no longer owe to pay salaries. We do not have the capacity to borrow to pay salaries. To avoid any controversy, we put together a committee called apportionment went to the capital projects. By the grace committee. The committee under the and we shall manage it effectively. of God, by November 2019, we will leadership of a veteran Labour Leader, Osun Debt Position settle the conventional one, and there Comrade Hasan Sunmonu, meets every to monitor all the revenues and The total debt of the state will be no kobo left of the N30b month conventional bond. By September 2020, assist on the proportion of the revenue is N171.4b and what we that must go into salaries, capital and the N11.4b of SUKUK bond would be and that is how we have been owed till date is N143.6b. settled. What would be left would be the recurrent federal government bond which was running. However, we must leave on This means that we have actually the money we took as an over hope that our tomorrow will be better draft for salaries. You recall that, by than our today and interestingly we have paid over N28b over the September of 2014, the state could no seen improvement in the economy from years despite the whole longer pay salaries without taking over without and from within. We are draft and by the time the government witnessing improvement in our capacity physical, human and of Muhammadu Buhari government to internally generate revenue. I am very infrastructural came into power, we had borrowed as confident with everything we have put over draft N25.8b on salaries alone. That to it that our state will gradually pay development. one is structured to take a very long time whatsoever it is owing and be able to pay – Osun Accountantand that is the only one that would be the full salaries of our staffers as we are left which we are paying painfully. The going on.

General However, I will admonish our critics buck of the money that we are paying For your information, the debt can be is actually money borrowed to pay to be mindful of what they say. People forget about the history of our state, our segregated; we have the SUKUK which salaries.

Clearing The Backlog Of Salary state whether we like it or not was part we used to fund the construction of schools, and the conventional one which Arrears.

•Continued on page 6

The buck of the money that we are paying is actually money borrowed to pay salaries.

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FRIDAY MAY 18 - THURSDAY MAY 24, 2018

Unveiling The Success Stories, Debt Position, Others

•Continued from page 5 of Oyo but now on its own and that happened in 1991. The bulk of civil servants in the western region before independence were from two states today - Ogun and Osun. When the Western region later became western states, even at that time the bulk of the civil servants were still from those two states. Ogun was created later as well as Ondo. When we were under the old Oyo state, 80% of the workers in the old Oyo state were from Osun until 1991 that Osun was created. The implication of this is that the state has a huge pension burden because of those that worked in the old western region that are from Osun and have not died; we cannot kill them and for as long as they live they must earn their pensions. On pension alone, we •A cross section of participants. pay more than several states.

Two days ago, the critics that do not even know about government in spite of the fact that they were here for seven and half years, and have no clue about governance, came to challenge us that we are reckless. Beside the fact that the figure they gave was wrong, one other fact that will interest you is that in 2015, the year they referred to, when our total amount received from the federal government as allocation was N5.09billion, we paid as pension N4.99billion. For you to appreciate the enormity of our pension burden which has historical basis, in 2015 alone we serviced our pension responsibility them are being paid 75% of their salaries alone with N4.99billion, while our while the high earners get 50%. For your receipt from the federation account that information, in Osun, Permanent year was N5.09billion. So, when you are secretaries earn more than the deputy looking at our state, take into governor and if this is the case, then it consideration the historical factors means they earn more than the determining finance and management. legislators and the commissioners, If you are not sagacious, you cannot because that of the deputy supersedes manage the finances of this state, and theirs. Why I can’t talk about my own is that is why such party must never be that I do not receive salary and I will allowed to come near governance here. never do, hence, I do not know how The question to ask is how have we been much I am to receive. managing? Because if our receipt was As we pay the low earners in full and N5.09b and our pension burden for that reduced that of the middle and high year was N4.99b, while salaries for that earners salaries, same we did to all year at modulated rate was N18b, you political office holders. My deputy also must ask about the ingenuity we receives 50%. Therefore, if the salaries introduced. are not enough to cater for the needs of Many workers have been crying that our workers, our political office holders their salaries have not been fully paid, also share out of it. So, if they are it is not so. The low salary earners are complaining that I have been hard on receiving their full pays. While I was them in term of finance, yes, it is true. It referring to how we pay much on was very hard that we couldn’t purchase pensioners in the state, I must also add cars for them; they are using their that the total numbers of civil servants personal cars because we are in a state we have is more than that of a lot of state, of economic emergency. for instance about half of the amount we MKO International Airport pay on salary is the total sum paid for The concessionaire of the Airport all the workers in Kwara. We pay a lot failed but that project is so dear to us that on salary and that is why it has become we pray by the grace of God we will a burden on us. So, as a result of constant complete it. talks with Labour, we agreed on paying Regrets In Office the low earners in full, those that follow

The only regret I have is that my administration coincided with the most irresponsible government at the centre under Goodluck Jonathan during my first term in office. Were I to have the opportunity of a responsible government at the centre during the period, it would have been phenomenal.

•A cross section of participants at the programme.

If I understand the concept, I will say I have no regret, but should I want to answer it philosophically, the only regret I have is that my administration coincided with the most irresponsible government at the centre under Goodluck Jonathan during my first term in office. Were I to have the opportunity of a responsible government at the centre during the period, it would have been phenomenal. Were I to enjoy a responsible government at the federal level the result here would have been something else. So, my regret is that I had the misfortune of being a governor with a totally irresponsible administration at the centre.

The Administration’s Performance As to what we have been able to do here with so little, I give glory to God. Nobody can fix all problems except we would be deceiving ourselves. We must thank God for what he has done for us.

Ask those who have been here before 2010 whether they believed that there could be an interchange bridge in any part of Osun. The only bridge built by PDP government that was there for seven and half years was just a two lane bridge across river Osun by Oranmiyan house. I said it before and I want to repeat it again that we are yet to spend the duration of years they have spent and we have delivered. On bridges alone, we have constructed five massive ones, each of which is better than the one they delivered. Let us be practical, if you were told that Gbongan interchange will no longer be a death trap, would anyone ever believe? Today, unless a suicide, we have eliminated avoidable deaths in the area. We have constructed an interchange that is phenomena; you can only have such in Lagos, Port Harcourt and Kano if we want to count the number of states that have this kind of interchange. We are not resting on our oars but honestly we are satisfied with our achievements.

Partnership With Nigeria Railway For Transportation of Agric Produce None of our programmes has failed, except, you are not fully informed about the programmes. Our administration had prepare an arrangement with the Nigerian railway to take to Lagos agricultural produce of our farmers, but as a government we cannot coarse

anybody to comply, up till today, the agreement still stands, but the Osun farmers are not willing to make use of the railway, they have shown lack of confidence in the railway system, you cannot blame our government for this. We never said we would be buying the produce, rather we said we would encourage the Osun farmers to export under our support to the Lagos market and this farm produce would be moved free of charge to Lagos market. On the other side of the agreement which involves the periodic festive movement of passengers from Osun to Lagos which has been running ever since then, we have never had enough space for those who want to travel to Lagos. So, we cannot be blamed for this.

On OYES Absorption Into The Civil Service There was never a time we promised to employ or absolve all the participants of the OYES programme. What we said was that we would be using the programme to create jobs for the youths.

Where would the over 40,000 cadets go into in government? Let’s be realistic, where are we going to put them? For us to absolve them into the government, we must discharge everyone currently employed in the state, and doing this, you are not solving problems you are only creating more. We never promised to engage all participants in OYES scheme, what we told the world was that we would create opportunity for employment of the best among them within the government and outside government which we are doing.

Development On Old Fakunle School Site I am equally enthused by what is happening there. However, I said something last year that I will utilized everything we have to work for the people. We have 200 more days to go, those 200 days that the constitution permit will be filled with activities and what you are seeing at that spot is one of the very many things that will happen.

Calmly watch and you will see surprises.

We are not done yet, when we are done, great things will continue even after I am gone. We called the place a city centre, we have done that of Orita Olaiya; when you are coming from Abere, we have done a little work on that on the right hand side which we call ‘Magnificent Mile’. We have done the upgrade of the city centre. We are not done with the Freedom Park yet, it remains a phase.

When we are done with the other phase what will become of Fakunle will be mouth-grasping. From Fakunle, there will be a Pedestrian Bridge linking the Freedom park, which we won’t be able to complete, but I can assure you that my successor will. People will be able to walk on a beautiful arched pedestrian bridge, it will be awesome.

Evaluation of Agricultural Interventions We are humans and as humans, we over rate ourselves. Nature recognizes waste, the amount of waste in procreation is so huge and yet nobody talks about it. As humans, it is not possible to be perfect, there are strength and there are failures in some of the programmes embarked upon, but on the whole we have succeeded beyond measures, and I will explain again that we have been feeding our school children with fish obtained through those people that we empowered to produce fish, so why aren’t we interested in looking at that. Go to farm settlements, all the interventions there are successful, there could be some shortcomings here and there but in all we have succeeded in our agriculture sector.

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COMMUNITY

FRIDAY MAY 18 - THURSDAY MAY 24, 2018

Odo-Otin North LCDA Reiterates Commitment To Rehabilitation Of Accessible Roads The management of Odo-Otin North Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has reiterated that the promotion of general welfare and well being of the people through rehabilitation and opening up of accessible rural roads would continue to be the priority of the administration.

These were the assertions of the

council chairman, Hon. Akeem Seriki and the leader of the council’s parliament, Hon. Isaac Omogoye during the inspection of the completed and

ongoing projects executed by the works department led by Engineer Taofik Adeyemo.

This is contained in a statement by the head

•The bridge under construction.

Council Bosses Charge NYSC Members On National Development, Security The Chairman of Atakumosa West Central Local Council Development Area, Honourable Anthony Adeboye and his counterpart from Ayedaade Local Government, Hon. Abdulateef Adewale have charged the National Youth Service Corps members across the country to see their one year mandatory service as a call to service by contributing their own quota to national development.

Adeboye and Adewale host community whom gave the charges in their he described as kind, various council loving and friendly.

While assuring them secretariats in Ifewara and Gbongan that their security and respectively while welfare would be given receiving the Batch topmost priority, the A 2017/2018 corps council boss admonished members posted to the the corps members to be law abiding citizens of councils.

Adeboye who urged the Federal Republic of the corps members to Nigeria.

Hon. Adeboye warned serve their fatherland with dedication, them to shun partisan politics and urged them diligence, loyalty and sense of patriotism to be faithful, loyal and enjoined them to feel at honest in whatever home and feel free to capacity they are called relate with people of their upon to serve their

CHANGE OF NAME/PUBLIC NOTICE BABATUNDE AYOBAMI OLUWATOYIN

OLATUNJI TAIWO REUBEN

That I was formerly known and addressed as BABATUNDE AYOBAMI ADESOYE, but now wish to be known and addressed as BABATUNDE A Y O B A M I OLUWATOYIN. All former documents remain valid. G.T. Bank, and General public should take note.

That I was formerly known and addressed as OLATUNJI TAIWO RUBEN, but now wish to be known and addressed as OLATUNJI TAIWO REUBEN. All former documents remain valid.

Skye Bank and General public should take note.

OGUNLANA MUNIRU AKANFE That I was formerly known and addresed as OGUNLANA MUNIRU with date of birth 15th Day of December, 1968, but now wish to be known and addressed as OGUNLANA MUNIRU AKANFE, with correct date of birth as, 2nd Day of September 1965. All former documents remain valid.

Access Bank and General public should take note.

BABATUNDE AYOBAMI OLUWATOYIN

That I was formerly known and addressed as OPEODU FUNMILAYO OMOLARA, but now wish to be known and addressed as AGBOOLA F U N M I L A Y O OMOLARA. All former documents remain valid. G.T. Bank and General public should take note.

country.

He encouraged them to be enterprising, resourceful and visionary and that they should see beyond their primary assignment.

The council helmsman cited the example of an ex-corps member in lfewara who, aside his primary assignment acquired acres of virgin land and ventured into a large scale farming and has now settled in the ancient town as a successful farmer after his service year.

Responding, the council’s Corpers’ Liaison Officer ( CLO), Mr. Victor Afolayan thanked the council authority for the warm reception accorded the new corps members and promised that they would always uphold the ideals of the NYSC. Besides, the Chairman, Ayedaade Local Government, Hon. Abdulateef Adewale assured the corps members in his council of the government commitment to guarantee their security,

urging them to also be security-conscious.

The council boss further advised the corps members to be hardworking and committed to duty, just as he encouraged them to cooperate with their bosses when they get to their places of primary assignment.

Alhaji Yinusa Olalekan, the Ayedaade council manager, in his address advised the corps members to manage their time and use their service year to achieve something tangible.

The council manager advised them to ensure that they gainfully engage themselves through appropriate entrepreneurship before expecting what the government would do.

One of the corps members, Iheanacho Edward appreciated the Ayedaade council chairman and the council manager for their words of encouragement, assuring that they would take to the advice given to them.

RAMADAN PEP TALK 4 Mistakes to avoid in Ramadan • Getting Angry • Sleeping All Day • Fasting Without Prayer • Bad Language May Allah Accept It As An Ibaadat

of Social Development and Information department, Mr Samuel Abioye.

Seriki, according to the statement commended the prompt execution of the grading of rural feeder roads, such as Owode market via Esegun to OtanAyegbaju road, Oyan; Alagba Isale road, Oroki Oke and Oroki Isale to Ila-Orangun boundary, Asaba; Lapiti road to Kwara state boundary in Asi; Old road of Ijabe to IlaOdo; and Central Mosque to Oyan road, Ijabe and Kajola road along Konta to Ila-odo maternity centre, Ilaodo.

Also, some ongoing projects inspected are re-construction of collapsed bridge of General Hospital road, Oyan; and mass renovation of Primary Health Centres across the council secretariat.

Seriki and Omogoye in their separate comment said that the successes recorded on the projects so far show that the administration

was committed to making lives meaningful for the people of the council.

They noted that they would not relent in ensuring that the people of the council get the best interms of dividends of democracy.

In their separate reactions, Evangelist Oluwole Adegoke, a Community leader; Mr Julius Efunwole, a farmer and Mrs Saberedowo, a trader, showered encomium on the management of the council and the governor of the state, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola for their efforts at developing the council area.

Others on the entourage were, Hon Adekeye Gbenga, vice chairman; Hon (Mrs) Odenusi Kemi, deputy leader; Hon Rasheed Raji Ropo; Mrs Adedeji Eunice Ike ola, Council Manager; Mr Fasina Lawrence, Head of Administration and General services; Mr Ajayi Gbenga, head of Finance and Supply among others.

Egbedore South LCDA Advocates Prompt Payment Of Levies The Chairman, Egbedore South Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Honourable Kola Ajao has charged market men and women to be committed to prompt payment of all their levies due to the government.

This is just as he that sales can be prayer assured the traders of the improved, commitment of his sessions should be held on the market and there administration to ensure that conducive should be review of the atmosphere is created to annual payment of make lives meaningful ground rent.

Ajao, while speaking for the people of the called for maximum council area.

He spoke when he cooperation of market held a meeting with the men and women by leaders of the Faridah paying all levies as and Market, Dada Estate, when due, promising to Olorunsogo in Egbedore ensure proper welfare in South LCDA recently, the market.

The Head of Finance aimed at guaranteeing Supplies the progress of the and department, Mrs Ajagbe market being the only A.A, enjoined the one in the LCDA. of the The meeting, leadership according to the market to agree on the particular month which Information Officer of the council, was called the ground rent will be purposely for the collected so that the progress of the collection would be in market and ensures bulk and useful to the increase in revenue council.

The Council Manager, generation.

Suggestions on how to Alhaji Badru Kolapo improve the standard of commended the traders the market were offered in the market for their by the executive cooperation and called for maximum members of the market. cooperation of the Some of the suggestions, according market men and women to the statement, were whenever the workers that a market day should in charge of revenue be collectively fixed so collection visit them.

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THE SOCIAL REGISTER

FRIDAY MAY 18 - THURSDAY MAY 24, 2018

THE SOCIAL REGISTER

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A Cocktail Of Recent Happenings Wedding Ceremony Between Oludare And Ibukun. Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI Yinka Olatunbosun Youth

By Gbenga Adeniyi

It was joyful at Agunbelewo Osogbo in the State of Osun when Ibukunoluwa Ogunwale got married to his better half, Oludare Farominiyi.

Saturday 12th of May 2018 would forever remain memorable in the annals of history for both the family

ofOgunwale and Farominiyi family as their Children Ibukunoluwa and Oludare graduated from spinsterhood and bachelorhood into the realm of solemnization.

The registry programme took place at Olorunda local government in the State of Osun on Saturday 12th of May 2018.

The engagement of the two

love birds was held at Agunbelewo Osogbo, Osun State during which Faromiyi family came forward with the formal proposal and items requested by the Ogunwale family to have their daughter’s hand in marriage.

The reception followed immediately at the same venue, some important dignitaries were present at the event.

Peace Football Competition

•The couple, Mr and Mrs Oludare Farominiyi.

•Mr Yinka Olatunbosun (middle); Obalufe of Ife and others during the event.

NEYO Football Club of IleIfe, defeated the KNIGHT Football Club with 1 : 0 at the final match of the justconcluded first edition of Yinka Olatunbosun Youth Peace Football Competition held at the OAU campus football field, Ile-Ife on Wednesday.

Speaking at the event, the facilitator of the competition,

•A cross section of the couple’s Parents.

Mr Yinka Olatunbosun, who is an House of Assembly aspirant for Ife East Constituency said, the essence of the competition was to engage the youths productively.

He said youths energy must be directed towards productive activities rather than allowing them to involve in social vices capable of truncating their future.

•A cross section of guests at the event.

Christ Apostolic Church CFAMIC Holds A 3-Day Revival

By Gbenga Adeniyi

•A cross section of Choir members at the programme.

The General Overseer of Christ Apostolic Church CFAMIC Agunbelewo Osogbo, State of Osun Prophet/Evangelist Taiwo Oluwatade has advised Nigerian and to continue praying for this country.

He said this at a 3-day powerful revival held at their Church auditorium at Agunbelewo, Osogbo, Osun State recently.

The cleric bemoaned the current socio-economic challenges in the country which manifest in unemployment rate, inflation, terrorism, ritual and serial killings, kidnappings, human trafficking etc. as indicative of the destruction of the social and moral fabric of the society.

This societal decadence, he said, can be explained in religious perspective as the “breakdown in the demonic and occultic convenants and oaths between individuals and satanic agents brought about mainly by the past activities of their ill-informed progenitors, and the current craze for wealth.

Taking his sermon from the

Scriptural passages in 1 Sam. 18, 19 and 20; and 2 Sam. 9, the cleric further explained that irrespective of gender, age, socio-economic and educational status, religious creed or ethnic stock, the devil has a spiritual hold and leverage on individuals due to idolatry, occultism, witchcraft manipulations and other evil practices prevailing among the people.

He advised that satanic links and practices with the occultic groups and evil agents should be completely severed, abhorred and renounced by the leaders and followers alike for Nigeria to experience all-round development.

Also he averred that the solution to the Nigeria societal advancement cannot be found in religiosity, strict adherence to the dictates and counsels of fake and occultic religious con men that littered the nooks and cranny of the country, but rather to the true worship of the Lord and obedience to His precepts.

In conclusion, Prophet Oluwatade urge people to pray for upcoming election in Osun and general election •Some of the church members. in 2019.

•Winners of the first Yinka Olatunbosun Football Competition being presented the trophy.

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 others for your take. To take advantage of this, you can reach out to Murtala, 08023280935, Kazeem 08062207954 and Nike on 07032594744 Let the public know what you are doing.

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With 127 days to go into the election on September 22, the preliminaries and the heats for the main race, we continue our review of the purported contestants, even though only a few of them have formally declared.

Akintola: Gunning For

Governorship Seat Under AD Olugbenga Akintola completed his secondary school education with grade 1 distinction as the best student and later obtained both B.Sc (Hons) and M.Sc Architecture from the University of Ife, Ile-Ife. He attended the executive course (Innovation for Economic Development) at Harvard Kennedy School, Cambridge, Massachusetts.

He also attended various Continuous Professional Development Courses in the UK. Having works in both the Private and Public sector organisations in Nigeria and the UK for over 30 years, he is presently the Special Adviser to the Oyo State Governor on Infrastructure.

A thorough and accomplished Project and Programme Manager, utilising his training in Building, Surveying, Project Management, Architecture & Road Maintenance, in successfully delivering various building and road construction/ maintenance projects both in Nigeria and UK. He was appointed Special Adviser on Infrastructure, Oyo State, in September, 2016. Prior to his appointment, he was the Executive Chairman, Lagos State Public Works Corporation for 6 years from August 2009 to September 2015, and was responsible for the rehabilitation and maintenance of the State’s road network.

He developed a new vision for the Corporation together with a 5-year roadmap towards transforming the Corporation to achieving the laudable objectives of making Lagos work through significantly improved road infrastructure.

Olugbenga successfully led the Corporation through the challenges of achieving the set objectives.

In addition to these, he coordinated the implementation of the Imota and Badagry Asphalt Plant with a combine production capacity of 320 tons per hour, amongst other achievements. The Customer Service Unit became fully operational under his watch, together with an increased number of maintenance gangs from 13 to 30.

In his current role with Oyo State Government, Olugbenga increased the awareness of OYSG activities in construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of roads by communicating the state strategic plan via local media and through rebranding of Oyo State Public Works Department (OYSPWD) and signages with “Tax payers’ money at work”.

He also works in conjunction with other relevant Ministries to minimise flooding of road network by

The Race & The Runners

effecting prompt repair of water mains for smooth road operations.

In Oyo State and as in Lagos State, Olugbenga has demonstrated competent leadership, proactiveness, integrity and a real passion for delivering results, costeffectively.

Olugbenga is a Professional Member of the following bodies – Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (Fellow), Chartered Institute of Building (Incorporated Member), Association for Project Management (Member), Institute of Energy (Member), Building Research Establishment (Licensed DEA).

His vision for Osun State is embodied in his strong conviction that the people of Osun State desire much better than what they have been offered for over 20 years. As in all his endeavours, Olugbenga is driven by a genuine commitment to adding value to people’s lives.

Making people’s lives better in Osun is an unshakable commitment Olugbenga has dedicated the last few years to - through various initiatives, including free healthcare and low interest micro-finance loan for small scale traders, artisans etc.

His conviction that only a responsible and accountable government with visionary leadership can rescue the state from various challenges is the reason for his governorship ambition.

Eniola-Oni: From

Pulpit To The Race

Prince Ayodeji Eniola-Oni was born in Ibadan in the early 70’s to the family of Late Reverend (Dr) Joshua Eniola Oni of Ile-Epo’s Compound, Orita Jagun, Ede and Mrs Eunice Adijat Oni of Ile-Ikolaba, Ejigbo, Osun State.

He started his Primary Education at Iseki-Olori Baptist Day School, Ede and finished as the best overall student, he was a prefect at Wesley College Practising School, Elekuro, Ibadan in the year 1982 after which he proceeded to Olubadan High School, Aperin, Ibadan between 1982-1984. He finished his Secondary School Education and sat for His West Africa Examinations Council (WAEC) at Loyola College, Ibadan in 1987 as one of the best graduating students, Light Prefect and Food/Dinning Prefect for the College.

As for his post secondary education, he attended the first Polytechnic in Nigeria, Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, Lagos and studied Mechanical Engineering for his OND before he was enlisted into the prestigious Armed Forces University, Nigerian Defence Academy as a member of 44th Regular Combatant Course in 1992 as the only Engineering Officer Cadet representing Osun

State. He later left the Armed Forces for the gospel ministry for reasons best known to him. This decision led him to study at the Bible Training For Pastors Institution (USA), Côte d’Ivoire Chapter where he obtained a degree in Theology and presently running Project Management as a course at the University of Abidjan, Côte D’Ivoire.

In lieu of the certificate obtained at the Theological School, he was ordained as a Pastor in the year 2000 and started ministerial works. He has ministered in several churches both Nigeria and West Africa sub regions. He is the President and General Overseer of Olorunsogo Apostolic Church (Woli-Olorire) a.k.a God’s Glory Covenant Ministry International.

As a leader, he has been successful in several business transactions and these included: Creation of Travel Agency (Adefem voyages) which covers about 80% transactions of peoples travelling in Abidjan; Special Consultant for the Guaranty Trust Bank, Côte d’Ivoire; he Joined Mme Christina Powell, an American to established Citrine Management Group in Côte d’Ivoire as an Executive Consultant; he is Chapter Head of the International Council of Community Churches USA, Côte D’Ivoire Chapter.

Prince Ayodeji Eniola-Oni is a man of accountability and happily married and blessed with Children.

Presently, an aspirant under the umbrella of Democratic Peoples Party (DPP), he has begun mobilization and consultation of prominent political players, including the former President Olusegun Obasanjo for the actualization of his ambition.

Inspite the perceived insignificance of his party, DPP, Eniola-Oni seems not to be worry, as he insisted that the ruling APC and the main opposition party, PDP constitute no threat to his ambition in any way.

The call for zoning the governorship seat to Osunn West seems to be given Eniola-Oni the confidence that he stand a better chance of winning the election, because he hails from Ede, in Osun West Senatorial District.

•Next week, will look at another set of contenders for the governorship race.

FRIDAY MAY 18 - THURSDAY MAY 24, 2018

NEWS

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Stop Exhibiting Ignorance About Governance - Osun APC Tells PDP

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state expanding his office to comparative terms, it is by the number of millionaires of Osun has advised the PDP chairman, Soji include agencies that cheaper than the cost of fraudulent made his failure, which the PDP that a governing party Adagunodo to stop disgracing himself by exhibiting have creates”, it added. brought to Osun for more total ignorance about how the government of Osun government According to the effective than any one nearly a decade. is run.

“However, kleptocrats statement, this is not the which Osun has and A statement issued by politician first time the PDP would like Adagunodo have lost the party’s Director of government that know experienced in the last 27 their ability of invite the anti-corruption Publicity, Research and what they want to do, years.

(EFCC) to “This explains the so- comparative analysis. For agency Publicity, Barrister Kunle have to invest resources called high budget of the them, success in investigate presumed Oyatomi said the in his control mechanism. Governor’s office. But in government is measured fraud in the AregbesolaThis is more so because Aregbesola-led administration is running according to the APC, the PDP regime that an expansive government for the governed Osun between 2003 and 2010, flooded interest of the masses. the establishment with According to the APC, less than knowledgeable, Gov Rauf Aregbesola is incompetent and not driving the affairs of untrained hands that not the state in the old and only corrupted the corrupt style of the last system, they made it to PDP regime. Saying, malfunction.

“The APC government in “To reinvent the Osun is unique. Its system and reinvigorate control mechanism is its delivery capacity expansive, which makes therefore, Aregbesola the governor’s office had first, to expand his office to exercise greater larger than usual.

“Gov. Aregbesola’s control over the PDP effectiveness has corrupted establishment.

“So, when you talk everything to do with how his office runs. about the Governor’s Several agencies he office, you are talking created and attached to about an octopus-like the Governor’s office are structure, not just where the secret of his success so the governor sits. And experience has shown far.

•Members of the Osun Youths Empowerment Scheme (OYES) during their monthly “Adagunodo is that Aregbesola was right endurance treck in Osogbo on Wednesday in his choice of deliberately ignorant of this and in his negative disposition; he preferred to deceive himself that Governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf special period. securing the favour of the Governor’s office is a In his own message, Allah during the fasting small space within the Aregbesola; the state House of Assembly and establishment, which Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Moshood the SSG, Moshood period.

“Fasting should not be should therefore be Adeoti have congratulated Muslims in the state for Adeoti enjoined Muslims extremely limited in its witnessing the beginning of the month of Ramadan, to observe the Ramadan seen as a mere religious urging that they should use the period to move with fervent prayers for rites, but rather as a way running and funding. the state and the nation at of seeking the face of “It is this ignorance closer to Allah.

Allah and enhancing the that inspired the The governor in his “This is wishing all large.

In a statement physical well-being of a senseless criticism by the Ramadan message to Muslims Ramadan PDP chairman of the Muslims in Osun state Kareem, with love and personally signed by practicing Muslim.

“The act of going for budget of the Governor’s and Nigeria on grace on behalf of the him, Adeoti urged that office. And it shows the Wednesday signed by the government and the the period should be hours without any food limitation of his political Media Adviser to the good people of Osun,” used by all Muslims to or water intake should be pray for the country in a way of life for every and administrative Governor, Sola Fasure, the Governor said. expertise. charged Muslims in the Also, the House of general and the state in believer of God and a “Most government in country to observe Assembly under the particular, admonishing way of maintaining Nigeria failed as a result Ramadan with best leadership of Hon. all practicing Muslims on sound healthy living,” of the kind of ignorance practices and share love Najeem Salaam in a the need to maintain Adeoti opined.

The prominent All of Adagunodo as to how with fellow Muslims and statement by its piety throughout the the formal establishment neighbours.

Chairman, House Ramadan period with a Progressives Congress runs. Any politician who The governor Committee on view to seeking and (APC) member in the succeeds in governance is disclosed this Information and Strategy the one who can bypass Aregbesola said: “I am O l a t u n b o s u n the formal tardiness of most pleased to see the Oyinmtiloye said the establishment and beginning of this year’s witnessing the Holy make government work Ramadan. Ramadan is Month of Ramadan effectively. that period when which is renowned for

By Solomon Odeniyi “In Yorubaland, those Muslims worldwide core worship is a great The Special Adviser to Oyo State Governor on who have succeeded in engage in fasting – a blessing made possible Infrastructure, Olugbenga Akintola at the weekend running government physical and spiritual act by Allah. effectively after our of self denial, cleansing, The parliament urged declared his intention to contest the governorship legendary Obafemi prayer, fellowship and Muslims to use the position of the state of Osun come September 22, Awolowo are the ones charity.” period to renew their with a promise to work assiduously on rebuilding that have, by and large, “As one of the pillars of commitments to the agenda of economic development and human taking effective control of Islam, Ramadan is also a virtues of love and peace capital investment. policy implementations time of deep consecration taught by the Holy Akintola who was also effective governance.

He said, “my vision is outside the norm. Alhaji to spiritual matters. It is Prophet Muhammad and the former executive Lateef Kayode Jakande, therefore a time of also work towards Chairman, Lagos Public for an Osun state that will be capable of creating led the pack of successful spiritual awakening and achieving them.

Works Corporation politicians in Yoruba commitment to the tenets The assembly noted under Babatunde Fashola wealth for its people in health. My goal is to land who did things of Islam.” that the period was one of is contesting under the good ensure that Osun state differently and made the “Let us be sober and do the spiritual virtues, Alliance for Democracy. can fulfill all its establishment work like it all He noted that the things with which entails towards its never did before to moderation. Let us p e r s e v e r a n c e , educational knowledge, obligations people through a capable achieve maximum result. remember the poor, the t e m p e r a n c e , values, learned in the workforce and “Asiwaju Bola Ahmed sick, the beleaguered and introspection, and state have made him an industrialization.”

Tinubu followed that those in one difficulty or retrospection with the accomplished architect He added that in a bid trend and got successors another in our prayers Almighty Allah. whose expertise is valued to industrialise the state, who worked his style and and work of charity.”

While wishing the internationally and put to the youth would be given have made Lagos the “As we celebrate this Muslim faithful blessed use by Lagos and Oyo necessary tools to greatest city in Nigeria”, great festival of the Ramadan, the Assembly government, adding that function in the 21st said the statement. religion of peace, may the urged them to also he was motivated not century and in any It added that peace and comfort of remember the less only to pay back but also capacity that Nigeria and Aregbesola has gone one Allah SWT rest upon us, privileged in the society to take the state into an the world demand of step further to our family, community, and pray for their enviable point of them. demonstrate that a state and nation.” “ I solemnly promise to beloved state during the reference, honest and

led APC government saying. their first attempt ended disgracefully as Aregbesola was absolved of any corrupt practice.

“This time around, the PDP could get into legal trouble for providing false information to implicate an innocent person. That’s a crime and they better be warned.

“We state without a doubt in our mind, that in modern human governance, borrowing is the facilitator for development. But Osun thieves who had been in government would rather steal public funds to make themselves comfortable, than borrow money to develop their communities.

“This has been the pattern and style of the PDP in Osun. It is also the reason they are all finding faults with Aregbesola’s resort to borrowing to build a prosperous and economically dynamic state of Osun”, it reads.

Ramadan: Aregbesola, Osun Assembly, Adeoti Call For Expression Of Love, Prayers State also admonished Muslims partaking in the ongoing Ramadan not to impose unnecessary financial burden on their family members in an attempt to observe the Ramadan.

Alhaji Adeoti therefore charged all residents in the state to pray along with the Muslims during the holy month of Ramadan for the state to continue witnessing unprecedented development even after the expiration of the current administration in the state.

Ajumobi's Aide Joins Osun Guber Race, Promises Economic, Human Development rebuild Osun for a future in which our youths are prepared for the 21st century and our elders enjoy healthy old age while workers’ sacrifice is rewarded with timely payment of salaries and pensioners receive their entitlements.”

The state chairman of the AD, Olapade Fakunle said the party is not dead and remained the mother party for the ruling APC, adding that it is on a mission to liberate the people of the state.

He noted that victory is sure for the party in the September 22 election, as no party has matched the level of its achievement since the AD left power.

Fakunle warned that the party is coming with a full force to reclaim the governor’s office and the state secretariat built by the Alliance for Democracy.

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FRIDAY MAY 18 - THURSDAY MAY 24, 2018

OAU Students Laments Harrasment, Missed Opportunities Due To Denial Of IDs

By Abiodun Komolafe Students of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, have expressed their displeasure over non issuance of Identity Cards to any of them for 2016/2017 session.

OSUN DEFENDER level student explained to campus reporter gathered OSUN DEFENDER that that both fresh and the irregularities of the returning students of the management exposed the institution were not issued students to assault within ID cards after they had and outside the school, reportedly paid a saying, “The institution mandatory fee of N500 charges N500 each from each as part of the over 35,000 students miscellaneous charges by which amounts to over the school yearly which N17.5 million, yet we are allegedly sum up to N17.5 exposed to assault even by million for about 35,000 members of the school security personnel. students of the school.

“Imagine the likes of Some students told our reporter that they have Abiola Booster and Baba Ibeji who are the always had the issue of security delay in release of identity institution personnel asking students cards until last session that means of Identity card they were denied means of identification totally by the when they refuse to produce any.

I was school which according to and them, has caused them delayed more harm than good as embarrassed”, he said.

While narrating his they face harassment by ordeal, Lekan Adedoyin security personnel and said he was detained at miss several educational Moore Police station for opportunities that require two day due to inability to their ID cards. provide means of “When some of us were identification. given part time job to do The spokesperson of the as students, we pleaded institution, Abiodun with them that it was our Olanrewaju, however school which delayed the ascribed the failure of the issuance of our ID cards. It University to issue ID is however pathetic that Cards to the students we become liars when the throughout the session to institution fails to issue us logistics problem. any. It is nothing but “Identity cards were not fraud”, Toheeeba Adigun, given to our students for a student of Dramatic Arts 2016/2017 academic said. session due to some Eniola Olaniyan, a 300 logistics problem. First

and foremost, the university management never collected a dime from anybody for ID card, so let us get that clear. The idea of ‘they collected money from us and they didn’t give us ID card’ is exceptionally propaganda.

“Secondly, we had some logistics with icons and we don’t want to commit any error because OAU is a brand on its own.

“Actually, the issuance of ID card for this session and for the last session are in top gear.”

FEDPOFFA Agog For Campus Invasion Party

Students of the Federal Polytechnic Offa abandoned Government (SUG) for the classes for relaxation as one of the students brought present 2017/2018 sessions and it is proudly entertainment down to the school mini-campus. sponsored by Guaranteed The whole campus was According to Clement, Trust Bank (GTB). agog as students were “The aim of the event is to The event features rushing from all sides of revive the good legacy the musical performance by the campus to the aluta school is known for, that is students, comedy and ground which is known to to organize entertainment dancing competition be the entertainment haven programme that attract the among the various of the school. attention of students away departments that featured The campus was red from cultism. at the event. and only the sky above Moreover, Legacy 1.0 Some of the others remains blue at the sound Campus Invasion was Performers at the occasion of the music that blare fully supported by the include different talented from the massive speakers school Student Union artists, dancers and that attracted the attention of both students and staffers of the institution.

Within 5minute, a huge number of students of Federal Polytechnic, Offa (FEDPOFFA) has invaded the school Aluta ground giving the event a justification of it name “The Legacy 1.0 Campus Invasion”.

The event was organized by The Master Mind Entertainment (MME) anchored by its CEO, Ajayi Clement Babatunde popularly known as MC Clement, a student of the Department of Mass Communication ND II year III. •Students gathering on the FEDPOFFA Aluta Ground.

comedian which includes, Yung Jay, DJ Fabulous, DJ BB, DJ Abitad, MC Twenty Z, Mc BBO among others.

In the dancing competition, a male student from mechanical engineering won the first prize while a female student from Food Technology department won the second price.

Clement also presented a lot of awards to some set of students and forum.

OPINION

Power Game: PMB Must Belong To Someone, Sincerely

By Rasheed Mabayoje

After reflecting over unfolding political developments, particularly as they relate to Muhammadu Buhari and his co-participants in the 2019 power contests, I am worried by the particular stance that comes in common with what lot of people have said about the Nigerian president- ‘presence of mind’.

With zero objective of delegitimisation of Mr President’s character, or his regime, I would appreciate such assistance that could avail me an option of thoughts that our PMB was not the designer of the unnecessary troubles he now contends with.

I conclude that the particular and popular expression- “I am for everybody, and for nobody”- was the sole instrument of construction of current mess. Some people argue that the expression was coined for him, but I differ because by the fact that he uttered the statement was a commitment to knowledge regarding intentions. However, I don’t think he well understood the implications and repercussions, at least, by the time he was addressing the nation. He must have realised it by now.

Would the thought that our PMB lacked equanimity not be justified, going by such aloof statement? I come to this position thinking deep over what could have informed such stance so portrayed!!!

A leader gathers and coordinates colours of fantastic brains and ideas around himself. He deploys them

purposively and purposefully as and when necessary. He must know when and how to orient characters around him to a course strategically.

Within the context of his role in the Nigerian polity, leadership, expectedly, relates PMB’s perceived abilities, skills, and expertise to take quick, strategic actions in such crucial developments, such as when current regime set about. By military background, especially as deep as the record of a military general, our PMB qualifies to be credited with foretasted leadership capacities.

However, a good wheel is bound to malfunction at the instance of a clog.

The clogs, today, are many, and they keep increasing, even as the previous ones fester the more. This situation is caused by the actor’s intentions in the then newly sworn in Nigerian President. The intention behind the aloof statement, I think, has become Buhari’s seeming undoing.

Power is the ability to influence social interests and actions. It starts from the moment God, according to The Scriptures, created man via language. He said “be” and Adam came to existence. Hence, language is the key instrument of power, particularly political power, which relates divides.

Originally, mankind is divided into rich and poor, into property owners and the exploited, into leaders and followers, into allies and adversaries, and into man and woman. Hence, an individual, including our PMB naturally belongs to a side of each of

The time is now.

Our PMB must belong to someone and not to everyone, more so now that the power game is upped. these divides at a point in time in his life. So how could our PMB have belonged to “Everybody and to Nobody”? An aloof statement!

To abstract himself from this fundamental division and from the antagonism of US versus THEM, means Buhari’s imagination of abstracting himself from fundamental facts of nature.

I am drawn to reaffirming our PMB’s actor’s intentions as being behind the aloof statement that has caused the emergence of current quality of the leadership of our national assembly which constitute themselves as chief opposition entity to policies of government and initiatives.

Coming from the background of the public talks - Asiwaju-and-presidency discourse- that was hot at the beginning of the Buhari government,

particularly just after our PMB took the oath, some renegades were alleged to have oriented Mr President to keep the former governor of Lagos state, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu at arm’s length. “I am for nobody” ideology worked effectively, and the pregnancy of that hypocrisy was the evil child“The Cabal” in the Presidencyconceived and given birth to.

Nigerians will never forget the havoc it caused in a hurry. Also, the story was virile- how Tinubu tried to warn our PMB regarding the Saraki shenanigans. “I am for everybody” ideology blocked reasoning, and Saraki’s Senate, today, would summon and query any character, and government initiatives that do not go in tandem with his fancy.

The time is now. Our PMB must belong to someone and not to everyone, more so now that the power game is upped.

Politics and power are always about emphasising OUR positives and THEIR negatives. It is about belonging to somebody, and not to everybody.

Our PMB must assume some mind of presence in this regards. He must assume the ability to make quick and dare decisions, and act quickly, calmly and legitimately in current political situations.

He must be sincere in his request of individuals’, like Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s advice and assistance. His aloof stances will rubbish him beyond repairs, just as any sense of hypocrisy is worse off.

•Mabayoje writes from Osogbo, State of Osun.

FRIDAY MAY 18 - THURSDAY MAY 24, 2018

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Blame Cancer, But Blame The Health System More This is a wakeup call because the scourge of cancer in the whole of Nigeria is real; the government is simply not doing enough to tackle this disease headlong with all the will it got at its disposal.

Cancer is a very expensive ailment to manage and when a good majority of Nigerians are below the poverty belt, then there is need for government intervention at all levels of health care in this country to deal with this scourge.

Cancer has dealt a heavy blow to many Nigerians both rich and poor alike. It does not select its patients, it preys on both the rich and poor and mercilessly squeezes life out of its victims with the attendants pains associated with it.

Just take a look on the face of a cancer patient and see the level of pain, frustration and disappointment it portrays.

In a country where cancer is a death sentence, where do patients run to and what do their relatives and friends do in order to alleviate their pains.

According to information made available to OSUN DEFENDER, there are only four cancer radiotherapy [RT] machines in the country and these can be found at EKO Hospital, Lagos, University College Hospital [UCH], Ibadan, Oyo State, Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital [ABUTH], Zaria, Kaduna State and National Hospital, Abuja.

Of all three, only the machine at the National Hospital, Abuja could be said to be functioning very well and so by implication, only one RT is serving the lot of cancer patients in the country.

Most of the cancer patients are at the mercy of many obstacles which present themselves as the peculiar Nigerian problem.

These problems are numerous to mention. If medical doctors are not on strike, allied health workers would be, if the system is not crying of corruption, funds made available for the supply, purchase of those delicate medical equipments are either being siphoned or used to buy substandard ones.

With FRANCIS EZEDIUNO

Reality is the diagnosis of cancer is not a sentence to death but because the Nigerian government is so insensitive to the health sector, many factors have combined to make this disease a death sentence.

In the whole of the South West, Nigeria, it is only at the University College Hospital, Ibadan in Oyo state that the RT machine can even be used for palliative treatment. Meaning, the disease would just be managed until the patient dies later.

You can imagine a situation where, there is no RT machine in the whole of Osun State; the three teaching hospitals in the state; OAUTHC, Ile-Ife, LTH Osogbo and State of Osun Teaching Hospital, Osogbo. The scenario is that, if a patient is diagnosed of the disease after going through the numerous tests, depending on the stage of the disease, some course of treatment like surgery could be carried out in the state but in the case of advanced treatment, such a patient will be referred to the UCH, Ibadan or better still LUTH or LASUTH in Lagos.

7 Surprising Scientifically Proven Health Benefits Of Ramadan Fast World over, the Islamic holy month of Ramadan begins this week, and scientists have proven that vast benefits come with its observance.

No wonder many non-muslims are also taking part.

Worried that fasting during Ramadan will have a detrimental impact on health? Find out why the month long fast can have some surprising health benefits.

Although millions around the world have successfully observed the spiritual cleansing of Ramadan for more than a thousand years, some people fear that fasting over such a long period time will have detrimental effects on their health. If you’re one of those worriers, then check out these seven health benefits you’ll enjoy during and after Ramadan.

1.

Dates Although, three dates are eaten at the start of Iftar every day during Ramadan for spiritual reasons, they also come with the added bonus of multiple health benefits. One of the most important aspects of fasting is getting the right amount of energy, and considering an average serving of dates contains 31 grams (just over 1 oz) of carbohydrates, this is one of the perfect foods to give you a boost.

Dates are also a great way of getting some muchneeded fibre, which will aid and improve digestion throughout Ramadan. Add to their high levels of potassium, magnesium and B vitamins, and it quickly becomes apparent that dates are one of the healthiest fruits out there.

2.

Boost your brain No doubt, you’ll be aware of the positive effects fasting can have on your mental wellbeing and spiritual focus, but the brain-boosting powers of Ramadan are even more significant than you might think. A study carried out by scientists in the USA found that the mental focus achieved during Ramadan increases the level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which causes the body to produce more brain cells, thus improving brain function.

Likewise, a distinct reduction in the amount of the hormone cortisol, produced by the adrenal gland, means that stress levels are greatly reduced both during and after Ramadan.

3.

Ditch bad habits Because you will be fasting during the day,

The irony is, in these hospitals, no connection, no radiotherapy, patients just resort to prayers for the repair of the radiotherapy machines and in others helping patients to see doctors is a lucrative business 200 Million People, Four Radiotherapy Machines According to recent investigations carried out by the International Centre for Investigative Reporting [ICiR], “there are only four functioning radiotherapy machines all over the country to serve an estimated 200million Nigerians, yet the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recommendation is one RT machine per 1million people, meaning Nigeria should ordinarily have roughly 200 RT machines.

To put the situation in perspective, 17 of Nigeria’s 20 teaching hospitals cannot offer radiotherapy to cancer patients.

“Painfully, of the four radiotherapy machines available all over Nigeria, only the one at the National Hospital Abuja’s is useful for curing cancer; all other three cannot. They are only useful prolonging a patient’s life; more like ‘you’re going to die anyway but let’s try not to make you die too soon”, explained Dr. C. W. Chidiebe, a cancer control advocate and Executive Director, Project Pink Blue.

“The radiotherapy machines at Zaria and Eko hospital are cobalt machines. I have interacted with so many medical physicists, clinical oncologists and radiation oncologists, and they will tell you that the beam produced by cobalt radiotherapy machines is not sufficient to prevent spread or even ensure any treatment or therapy; it is just good for palliative care only; that is the situation whereby you’re no longer trying to achieve cure but just to prolong the patient’s life.”

Truth Of The Matter with

AYEKOOTO ayoakinola444@gmail.com

Ramadan is the perfect time to ditch your bad habits for good. Vices such as smoking and sugary foods should not be indulged during Ramadan, and as you abstain from them, your body will gradually acclimatise to their absence, until your addiction is kicked for good.

It’s also much easier to quit habits when you do so in a group, which should be easy to find during Ramadan. Fasting’s ability to help you cut out bad habits is so significant that the UK’s National Health Service recommends it as the ideal time to ditch smoking.

4.

Lower cholesterol We all know that weight loss is one of the possible physical outcomes of fasting during Ramadan, but there’s also a whole host of healthy changes going on behind the scenes. A team of cardiologists in the UAE found that people observing Ramadan enjoy a

By not eating throughout the day during Ramadan you’ll find that your metabolism becomes more efficient, meaning the amount of nutrients you absorb from food improves. This is because of an increase in a hormone called adiponectin, which is produced by a combination of fasting and eating late at night, and allows your muscles to absorb more nutrients.

positive effect on their lipid profile, which means there is a reduction of cholesterol in the blood.

Low cholesterol increases cardiovascular health, greatly reducing the risk of suffering from heart disease, a heart attack, or a stroke. What’s more, if you follow a healthy diet after Ramadan, this newly lowered cholesterol level should be easy to maintain.

5.

Lasting appetite reduction One of the main problems with extreme fad diets is that any weight lost is often quickly put back on, sometimes even with a little added extra. This isn’t the case with Ramadan. The reduction in food consumed throughout fasting causes your stomach to gradually shrink, meaning you’ll need to eat less food to feel full.

If you want to get into the habit of healthy eating then Ramadan is a great time to start. When it’s finished your appetite will be lower than it was before, and you’ll be far less likely to overindulge with your eating.

6.

Detoxify As well as being great for spiritually cleansing yourself, Ramadan acts as a fantastic detox for your body. By not eating or drinking throughout the day, your body will be offered the rare chance to detoxify your digestive system throughout the month.

When your body starts eating into fat reserves to create energy, it will also burn away any harmful toxins that might be present in fat deposits. This body cleanse will leave a healthy blank slate behind, and is the perfect stepping stone to a consistently healthy lifestyle.

7.

Absorb more nutrients By not eating throughout the day during Ramadan you’ll find that your metabolism becomes more efficient, meaning the amount of nutrients you absorb from food improves. This is because of an increase in a hormone called adiponectin, which is produced by a combination of fasting and eating late at night, and allows your muscles to absorb more nutrients.

This will lead to health benefits all around the body, as various areas are able to better absorb and make use of the nutrients they need to function.

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NEWS

FRIDAY MAY 18 - THURSDAY MAY 24, 2018

Southern Governors' Wives Unite To End Poverty, Illiteracy In Nigeria regular meetings has commitments, you must of the Public Officer”, the

By Kehinde Ayantunji The Southern Governors’ Wives Forum (SGWF) touched many lives. It is not relent and this is one wife of the Governor, have pledged more commitment to eradicate fast becoming a special of the cardinal aim of Enugu State, Monica poverty and encourage girl child education through scheme in addition to initiating this forum by Uguwanyi urged the individual the Wife of the President, wife of public office their various pet projects in the 17 southern Nigeria our holders to be e m p o w e r m e n t Aisha Buhari”. states. programmes in our Delivering a lecture accommodating and The forum at its 2018 programme which has states, I appreciate your on the “Role of the Wife polite in their public quarterly meeting held become part of our in Osogbo described poverty and illiteracy as major prominent challenges that encourage girl child abuse and inferiority complex in the society.

Vice Chairman of the forum, and the wife of the Governor, state of Osun, Mrs Sherifat Aregbesola said this while playing host to the Southern Governors’ wives in Osogbo.

Mrs Aregbesola in her address described the meeting as a further step to provide another step to drive the desire for progress, sustainable development and unity among the southern states of Nigeria.

According to the first lady, the country is •Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun (middle), flanked by his wife, Sherifat and other members of Southern Governors yearning for critical re- wives. engineering in all facets of life and no effort must be spare to make life more abundant for the people while urging the wives of the governor not to relent in their efforts.

She said “As members of SWGF, we have been contributing individually and collectively to meeting this goal. During our meetings, we have continually deliberated on various ways we can intervene to ensure that our people especially women, have improved standard of living across our state.”

“It is particularly noteworthy that our e m p o w e r m e n t •Osun female students at the programme.

•Wives of the governors presenting empowerment materials to women.

engagements, saying their public appearance most often used to rate their husband.

She said “ Our image outside is the public perception of our husband, many develop hatred for people in public offices just because of the public and private conduct of their wives, the way we dress, talk and relate with people are very important, it would be used as the standard to support your husband.”

“We are not the one elected as governor or senator, we are their wives, we must know our limit in intervene in political and public affairs that is not within our purview, our posture can positively or negatively affects the success and rating of our husband, therefore we are under obligation to behave responsibly” .

The wife of the Delta State Governor, Mrs Dame Edith Okowa in her lecture urged women to always ensure that their husband are emotionally stable through proper management of home and other domestic affairs.

Edith said “As Africans, our husbands deserve respect and caring to appropriately discharge their responsibility in public office, even if you are the one providing foods at home, you have duty to respect your husband and never allow communication gap”.

“It has been proven more often that those who have perfect home would be stable emotionally and perform at maximum level either at work place or public office, it is therefore expected of us to organize our home to save the family and the society at large.”

Other wives of the southern governors’ in attendance includes Lagos State, Mrs Bolanle Ambode; Rivers State, Justice Eberechi Wike, Ogun, Olufunso Amosun; Edo, Mrs Bene Obaseki; Oyo Mrs Folrance Ajimonbi; Ekiti, Feyisetan Foyose; Bayelsa, Dr Racheal Dickson and Abia, Mrs Nkechi Ikpeazu.

The forum had earlier paid a courtesy visit to the state governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola at the government house who advised them to use their forum in addressing economic, political and educational challenges facing the country.

FRIDAY MAY 18 - THURSDAY MAY 24, 2018

CRIME

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15

20-Year-old Man In Prison Over Alleged Robbery

By Mariam Bello The Osun State police command has arraigned one Taofeek Popoola, 20, before a magistrate court in Osogbo over alleged armed robbery.

Taofeek was docked and has no legal on three count charges representation.

The prosecutor Sergent Temitope Fatoba told the court that the suspect committed the offence on April 1, 2018 at Iyaloja area, in Osogbo.

Fatoba said the

accused person, armed with a gun and robbed one Mr Adebisi Opeyemi of his Bajaj Boxer motorcycle with registration number BKN 656QC valued N220, 000.

He also stated that the defendant unlawfully have a possession of one cut to size gun, without license or authority.

Sergent Fatoba further explained that the suspect unlawfully had possession of three live cartridges and one expended cartridge that the accused person could not give satisfactory account without lawful authority.

He submitted that the

offence contravenes section 27(1)(b)(ii) of the Firearms Act Cap F.28 laws of the federation of Nigeria 2004.

The plea of the accused person was not taken due to the nature of the crime committed.

The magistrate, Mrs O.A Oloyade ordered the accused persons to be remanded in Ilesha prison custody.

The case was adjourned to June 17, 2018.

Man In Prison Over Indecent Assault

•Scene of the Ilawe Ekiti, Ekiti State Bank robbery where a policeman and bank staff were killed on Tuesday.

Court Remands Two Suspected Cultists In Prison Over Alleged Murder

them.

By Mariam Bello The Defence Counsel, An Osogbo Magistrate Court has ordered that Mr Abiodun Olaide, two suspected cultists be remanded in Ilesa urged the court to grant prison custody over alleged murder. his clients bail in the most The suspects are 22 of Osun, 2003. liberal terms. year-old Ridwan Akande They pleaded not The Magistrate, Mrs and Oluwagbotemi Oni. guilty to the count Olubukola Awodele The Prosecutor, charges preferred against overruled the bail Inspector.

Joshua Oladoye, had told the court that the defendants who happened to be

By Mariam Bello members of Aiye confraternity committed An Osogbo Magistrate court has remanded a 48the offence on Aug. 5, year-old man, Ayinde Tajudeen in prison custody 2017 , at about 6:30 p.m., for allegedly inflicting injuries on a woman Mrs at old garage area, Ayinde Omolora and two police officers on duty.

Osogbo.

Ayinde Tajudeen was suspect assaulted Mrs Oladoye said the docked on a two count Ayinde by slapping her defendants conspired charge of assault and has face which led to her together and with others no legal representation. sustaining injuries.

Prosecutor alleged that at large to kill one Bintu The prosecutor, Jafani accused also Anifowose, by shooting Muslim told the court the Assaulted one Sergent her with a gun for that the defendant Owoseni Olawale and unknown reasons. committed the offence on He said, the offence May 14 2018 at about Aliu Sodiq by tearing contravened sections 324 10.pm at Oke - Onitea in their clothes while performing their lawful and 319(1) of the criminal Osogbo. duty code cap34 vol. 11 , laws He explained that the Inspector Muslim

application by the defence counsel and ordered the defendants to be remanded in prison custody.

The case was adjourned to July 6, 2018 for mention.

By David Adejuwon An Osun State Magistrate Court sitting in Osogbo has ordered the remand of a 35-year-old man, Rafiu Tunde in Ilesha prison custody over alleged indecent assault.

Jafani said the offence Rafiu was arraigned on a two-count charge committed is contrary to bothering on indecent and punishable under assault. The accused section 355 and 353 of the pleaded not guilty to the criminal code Cap 34 vol. charges preferred against II laws of Osun State of Nigeria 2003. him.

Defence counsel, Police prosecutor Inspector Jafani Muslim Barrister Olatunbosun Ladipo prayed the court told the court that the accused committed the to grant his client bail, offence on May 14, 2018 saying he knows the man at Oke-fia GRA Osogbo. to be a gentle and kind The charge sheet soul.

Presiding Magistrate, revealed that Rafiu indecently assaulted one M.A Awodele ordered Ifih Happiness by using the remand of the knife to stab her and as a accused in Ilesha Prison result, she sustained and adjourned the matter injury and also tore her till May 28, 2018 for ruling on bail. pant and cloth.

48-Year-old Man In Prison Over Alleged Assault On Police Officers

VACANCY

stated further that the offence is contrary to and punishable under section 355 and section 353 laws of Osun State 2003.

The defendant pleaded

guilty to the two-count charge alleged against him.

The Magistrate, Mr O. T Badmus ordered that the accused person be

remanded in Ilesha prison custody and thereby adjourned the case to May 18 for presentation of facts on the matter.

Court Remands 30-Year-old Man Over Alleged Stealing

By Mariam Bello An Osun State magistrate court in Osogbo has remanded a 30-year-old man, Adeleke Najeem over alleged theft.

Adeleke Najeem was 2018 on a three-count arraigned on charge bothering on Wednesday May 16, stealing.

The prosecutor inspector Fagboyinbo Abiodun told the court that the defendant committed the offence between April and December 2017 at Zeebaf Supermarket Ataoja estate Area in Osogbo.

He stated that the defendant stole household items, provisions, cutleries, men wears, imported drinks and cash with total value of N450,000 property of one Mrs Fawemi Ganiyat.

Inspector Fagboyinbo explained further that the accused person conducted himself in a manner likely to cause

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breach of peace when he instigated the two sales girls at Zeebafs supermarket market, Titilayo Omotosho and Falls Omotola to steal from their director.

The Prosecutor added that the offence is contrary to and punishable under section 249 of Criminal code cap 34 vol.11 law of Osun State of Nigeria 2003.

The accused person pleaded not guilty to the four count charges preferred against him.

The defence counsel, Mr J. P Jones urged the court to admit the accused person to bail in the most liberal terms.

The magistrate, Mr O. A Ayilara ordered that the accused person should be remanded in Ilesha prison custody and adjourned the case till May 23 for ruling.

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FRIDAY MAY 18 - THURSDAY MAY 24, 2018

"Men make their own history, but they do not make it as they please; they do not make it under self-selected circumstances, but under circumstances existing already, giving and transmitted from the past. The tradition of all dead generations weighs like a nightmare on the brains of the living."

Karl Marx - The Eighteenth Brumaire of Louis Napoleon Bonaparte

OSUNDEFENDERwww.osundefender.com

Observation Issues & Policy KANMI ADEMILUYI

BY RAUF AREGBESOLA

The 61st Birthday Of The Symbol Next week Friday, a week today, the symbol of the progressive thrust, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola will be sixtyone years old. The celebration provides an opportunity to reflect on h i s progressive intervention in the lives of the people of Osun.

Inspite of reservations on emphasis, the crossing of t’s and the dottings of i’s, the intervention has been of benefit to the many and not to just a few, which has hitherto been the case.

The key issue of course will be the succession and the cause of continuity of the programmes.

Here we may care to refresh ourselves with the observations of Antonio Gramsci, the Italian philosopher who reached his apogee in the 1920s. He had cause to observe that, the entire purpose of the political project

“ ”

If You Seek To Know, What Has Been Achieved, Look Around You.

is to shift the territory of the discourse in favour of one’s own position.

We look at Aregbesola, who has been transformed into the symbol of the progressive current in the State of Osun from this prism.

The governance of Osun is now seen from the position of

production as opposed to consumption.

That the government as part of a Social Contract must ensure the provision of a whole range of Social Services; the people in return as part of their own obligation to the contract will

ensure the prompt provision of taxes which is fundamental to assist the government to carry out its essential services.

The gains made are visible to even the undiscerning eye. If you seek to know what the A r e g b e s o l a intervention has achieved, as it was said of the architect of L o n d o n Christopher Wren, “Please look around you”.

It is therefore vital to ensure the continuity of the project. For we must not forget that there are significant force of retrogression whose sole purpose is to rewind the clock.

They want to reverse the gains by going back to an unedifying period of gain without pain. In the rallying battle cry of the fidelistas during the Cuban revolution – “They must not pass.”

Happy birthday in advance to the symbol of the progressive project in the State of Osun, who has fired a shot that has rekindled social democracy as a philosophy of government in Nigeria.

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,