Justice On Hold In Osun
TYusuf Oketola and 2025 promo ons as well as improved welfare for its members.
HE ongoing industrial ac on embarked upon by the Osun Chapter of Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), has grounded court ac vi es in the last six weeks with no hope in sight for the suspension of the strike any me soon.
OSUN DEFENDER had earlier reported that Osun JUSUN embarked on an indefinite strike on September 19, 2025, to demand mely 2024
The union blamed the Chief Judge of Osun state, Jus ce Adepele Ojo for her ‘egregious display of indifference to the ongoing strike.
Findings by OSUN DEFENDER revealed that the strike has been having a gross effect on awai ng trials across Correc onal Centres in the state.
The Spokesperson of the Nigeria
Correc onal Service, Osun Command, ASC Joel Oyedokun while speaking with the medium in a telephone interview stated that many awai ng trials are trapped in the prison especially suspects with minor offences.
“We have been trying our best but just that we could not take awai ng trials to court especially those with minor offences for bail. We hope the court will resume as soon as possible. We
are appealing to the appropriate quarters,” Oyedokun posited.
OSUN DEFENDER also gathered that the police have been transferring cases to the Federal High Court, Osogbo for determina on due to the strike.
Commen ng on the development, a legal prac oner in the state, Oladipupo Olatunbosun Esq. appealed to the state government to inter-
•Governor Ademola Adeleke in company of his cabinet members, members of Osun State House of Assembly, during a courtesy visit to the Òoní of Ifè, Oba Enitan Adeyeye on Wednesday
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2025
Justice On Hold In Osun
•Continued from front page
vene in the ongoing strike to avoid perversion of jus ce.
Olatunbosun said:
“The situa on in Osun at the moment has been disheartening. Lately, I have been going from the police sta on to solicit for bail of suspects or we transfer it to the Federal High Court. Some cases are also been se led at the police sta on”.
Earlier, the Osun State Command moved for the establishment of a mobile court to trial offenders in the state due to the strike.
Spokesperson for the command, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed this in an interview with OSUN DEFENDER recently.
Ojelabi noted that the state of police staons across the state
•As Judiciary Staff Insist On Improved Welfare
•Awaiting Trials Suffer, As Strike Enters 2nd Month
s ll remains the same aside from the state Criminal Inves ga ve Department (CID). According to him,
suspects with minor offences are been given administrave bails while those with capital offences
are been transferred to the state CID, adding that the legal department of the state command is currently
liaising with the Attorney General and Registrar of the High Court to establish a mobile court to trial
Reps To Probe Abandoned N22.5bn Dam Project In Osun
THE House of Representa ves has resolved to inves gate the circumstances surrounding the abandoned construc on of a mulpurpose dam project at Kajola Village, Ile-Ife, Osun State.
The dam project valued at N22.58 billion was awarded in 2004, according to the lawmaker represen ng Ife Federal Cons tuency, Hon. Abimbola Ajilesoro.
Kazeem Badmus Yusuf Oketola
Ajilesoro had sponsored a mo on tled “Need to Complete the Construc on of MulPurpose Dam Project in Kajola Village, Ile-Ife, Osun State.”
Leading the debate during Tuesday’s plenary a er the mo on was adopted, Ajilesoro said the contract for the dam was ini ally awarded to Reynolds Construc on Company, RCC, Nigeria Limited on December 21, 2004, for N2.24 billion, with a comple on meline of 24 months.
He recalled that although the contractor eventually mobilized to site in 2008, work progressed slowly and reached only 40 percent comple on before being abandoned due to inadequate funding.
Ajilesoro noted that the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, in collabora on with the Bureau of Public Procurement, BPP, later reviewed the project’s cost to N10.87 billion on December 13, 2011, with an extended comple on period between January
2020 and December 2021.
He also disclosed that another cost revision was made on December 15, 2022, raising the total project es mate to N22.58 billion, yet the dam remains incomplete and abandoned.
Ajilesoro, who expressed concern over
the delay, warned that the con nued neglect of the project had deprived residents of 11 local government areas in Osun and neighbouring Ondo State of access to essenal bulk water supply. According to him, comple ng the Kajola Mul -Purpose Dam
would bring immense socio-economic benefits, including hydropower genera on, irriga on, flood control, fishery development, and the crea on of employment opportuni es for local residents.
Following deliberaons, the House mandat-
ed its Commi ee on Water Resources to conduct a comprehensive invesga on into the project to determine the total amount released to the contractor since 2004, assess the current status, and ensure accountability in the u liza on of public funds.
Controversy Trails Removal Of Iyaloja In Modakeke
Amove by the Ogunsua of Modakeke, Oba Joseph Olubiyi Toriola, to install a new Iyaloja (market leader) by, has s rred controversy among Market men and women in the town.
OSUN DEFENDER gathered that process to install a new Iyaloja by the monarch is on top gear a er the removal of Alhaja Khadijat Ibraheem Araokanmi, who was installed during the reign of late Oba Francis Adedoyin, Olaogbin.
On October 16, 2025, a sec on of market men and women in Modakeke besieged the Ogunsua palace to protest against what they described as ‘poli cal removal’ of Alhaja Araokanmi.
A civil society organiza on, People Voices, has also raised alarm over the alleged plan, describing the move as a “threat to the town’s sacred tradions and cultural heritage.”
In a statement signed by its convener, Comrade Adeagbo Sikiru, the group expressed deep concern over the development,
warning that such an acon could cause disunity and distort the community’s historical and cultural founda ons.
According to People Voices, the posi on of Iyaloja in Modakeke is a tradional and spiritual office, not a poli cal appointment. The group maintained that Alhaja Khadijat Ibraheem Araokanmi remains the righ ul and duly installed Iyaloja, having been confirmed during the reign of the late monarch, HRM Oba Francis Olatunji Adedoyin (Olaogbin I).
“The office of the Iyaloja is not subject to polical manipula on or party influence,” the statement read. “Once installed through due tradi onal process, the holder remains in office for life unless incapacitated or voluntarily abdicated.”
The organiza on cauoned against any a empt to impose another person into the posi on while the incumbent remains alive, describing it as “a direct affront to Modakeke’s tradi on and palace authority.”
People Voices further urged the Modakeke Progressive Union (MPU), the Ogunsua-in-Council, and other stakeholders to reject what it termed a “poli cal experiment,” warning that allowing poli cal interference in tradi onal ma ers could lead to future instability.
“The alleged coronaon of another Iyaloja, if allowed, would set a dangerous precedent,” the statement noted. “It risks turning our sacred ins tuons into tools of poli cal control, undermining the dignity of the palace and the unity of our community.”
The group concluded by appealing to all sons and daughters of Modakeke to stand firm in defence of the community’s customs and ensure that tradi on remains above poli cs.
The group also faulted a comment credited to the Osun State Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Sesan Oyedele, who allegedly described the Iyaloja posi on as a poli cal office. The group called his remark “misleading, disre-
spec ul, and a distor on of Modakeke tradi on.”
“The Iyaloja tle is not poli cal and has never been under par san influence. It is a tradi onal stool, just like the Balogun, Oosa, Alagbaa, Baba Mogba, and Iyalode tles, guided by age-long customs and sacred values,” the statement emphasized.
The group further alleged that some palace chiefs had accepted financial inducements to back the parallel installa on, warning that such ac ons “betray Modakeke’s heritage and threaten its unity.”
They urged the palace authori es, community elders, and poli cal leaders to uphold Modakeke’s peace and protect the sanc ty of its customs.
“Modakeke must never allow poli cs or money to corrupt its values. Those who seek to sow discord should know that the peace and unity of our community supersede personal ambi on,” the group warned.
suspects pending the resump on of the judicial workers.
“The fact remains that the police staons are s ll in the same state except state CID. We have directed all DPOs to grant administra ve bails to suspects with minor offences while they transfer those with capital offences to the state command. Even some of the capital offences are se led in most cases within families.
“Presently the legal department of the command is trying to liaise with the A orney General of the state and Registrar of the High Court for the establishment of a mobile court to trial suspects as it was done during COVID19 lockdown. The arrangement should be concluded between this by next week if the JUSUN strike persists,” Ojelabi stated
The Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Legal Ma ers, Nurudeen Kareem Esq. while responding to enquiry made by OSUN DEFENDER regarding the strike promised to get back. But he is yet to provide latest informa on on the development as of the me of filing this report.
Meanwhile, the lingering strike has a racted strong reac ons as both the All Progressives Congress, APC, and the union exchanged statements on Wednesday over the state of the judiciary.
In a press statement signed by the Osun State APC Director of Media and Informa on, Kola Olabisi, the opposi on party cri cised the administra on of Governor Ademola Adeleke for the collapse of the judiciary in the state.
The APC said the prolonged strike represented the epitome of failure of the present government, alleging that the absence of judicial acvi es for more than a month amounted to a viola on of ci zens’ rights.
According to the statement, “The absence of exercise of judicial powers in
•Continued on Page 7
•Former First Lady of Ekiti State, Mrs Bisi-Adeleye Fayemi presenting an award of excellence to the First Lady of Osun State, Her Excellency, Chief Mrs Titilola Adeleke, recently
Curiouser And Curiouser
WHEN puz-
zled or she could not decipher whatever was happening the exclama on from the fic onal Alice in Wonderland is that “ it is ge ng curiouser and Curiouser.”
Alice in Wonderland every toddler knows is a children’s book but on occasions, life imitates fic on and even tragic - Comedy. A good recent example is the reversal of the government over the Prerogave of Mercy list. We must be grateful for the reversal. Had the list not been reversed, it would have portrayed Nigeria unfairly as a na on in moral decline. The list in some instanc-
“it look as if in Nigeria crime could pay. It is a very low ebb for the nation. It must not end there, the committee should be disbanded and a public enquiry instituted. There is something unsavoury about the list and some participants must be made to render account ”
“A new framework must be which will be driven by civil society in it’s widest definition anchored on transparency. The absence of transparency and the refusal to give civil society a leading role is leading to disaster after disaster this belittles and it should stop! ”
es made it look as if in Nigeria crime could pay. It is a very low ebb for the naon. It must not end there, the committee should be disbanded and a public enquiry ins tuted. There is something unsavoury about the list and some par cipants must be made to render account.
Transferring the func on of the commi ee elsewhere is not good enough. A new framework must be which will be driven by civil society in it’s widest defini on anchored on transparency. The absence of transparency and the refusal to give civil society a leading role is leading to disaster a er disaster this belittles and it should stop!
The Discourse
The Implications
Of Low Women Representation In Government: A Call For Gender Equality
By Olufunmilayo Adebomi Ojo
DESPITE significant progress in achieving gender equality in many aspects of society, the representa on of women in government remains a cri cal issue worldwide. Women con nue to be underrepresented in poli cal decision-making bodies, including na onal parliaments, cabinets, and local governments. This lack of equal representa on has profound implica ons for governance, policy-making, and the overall wellbeing of socie es.
According to a United Na ons Women report on Women representa on in Nigeria Na onal and State Assemblies, only 75 women make up the Na onal Assembly and State Assembly represen ng 5% of the 1459 total seats. In the State Houses of Assembly, out of 990 seats, women occupy only 55 representing 6 per cent.
Out of 36 states of the federa on, 14 State Houses of Assembly do not have women as representa ves, including Osun State House of Assembly with 26 cons tuencies. The implica on of this in Osun State is that only men is taking the policy-making decisions.
According to gender advocate and Execuve Director, Women Advocates Research and Documenta on Centre, Dr. Abiola AkiyodeAfolabi, this low representa on of women in poli cal posi ons could be linked to the challenges encountered by women while venturing into poli cs.
Akiyode-Afolabi noted, “There’s a lot of violence around poli cs in Nigeria. when you are woman, you are labelled a pros tute in poli cs, there is also cultural inhibi ons that women should not par cipate in poli cs. The male hegemony within the poli cal par es will tell women to step down for the men.”
Having a very low representa on of women in the Legisla ve arm of government as unhealthy for Nigeria democra c system, “Given the record that we have now, if you look at the Na onal Assembly, we don’t have up to 7% of women. There are some Houses of Assembly in Nigeria where we have just one or in some places where we don’t even have any woman at all in the parliament, and if you look at that in terms of representaon that is quiet embarrassing especially in a democra c society where par cipa on is cri cal”, Akiyode-Afolabi added.
To another gender advocate, Mr. Bukola Idowu, The Team Lead, Kimpact Development Ini a ve (KDI) promo ng women representaon in governance, par cularly at the legislave level must be a deliberate programme of poli cal par es by conceding at least 30% to
35% percent of their candidacy to women. Osun state, one of the state with no women representa on in the 2023 elec on, has 3 Senators, 9 members of the House of Representa ves and 26 members of the state House of Assembly, plus the Governor and Deputy Governor, all being male.
As if that is not enough, some of the appointments made so far are s ll in favour of the male gender. The SSG, the Chief of Staff, the Governor’s Spokesperson as well as the media Aides and others to the Governor were all men.
To crown it all, the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Hon. Adewale Egbedun’s composi on of staff were all men. It will not be a surprise to have all the Senators and members of the House of Representa ves also appoint male assistants.
One of the primary consequences of low women representa on in government is the inadequate considera on of women’s perspec ves and experiences in policymaking. Women’s unique concerns, such as reproduc ve rights, gender-based violence, and economic empowerment, may not receive sufficient a en on or priority in legisla on and policy development. Without diverse representa on, governments risk overlooking issues that dispropor onately affect women, perpetua ng gender inequali es, and hampering social progress.
Diverse perspec ves are crucial for effecve decision-making and governance. When women are underrepresented, the perspecves of half the popula on are not adequately reflected in policy discussions. This lack of inclusivity can result in policies that do not address the needs and aspira ons of women, leading to subop mal outcomes for society as a whole. Increased women representa on in government facilitates inclusive decisionmaking, enabling a broader range of voices to shape policies and contribute to more equitable outcomes.
The underrepresenta on of women in government undermines the principles of democracy and legi macy. Democracy relies on the fair and equal representa on of all ci zens, regardless of gender.
When women are not propor onally represented, it raises ques ons about the legi macy of the poli cal system and the extent to which it truly represents the will and interests of the en re popula on. By ensuring equal representa on, governments can enhance democra c values, build trust among ci zens, and foster a more inclusive poli cal environment.
OSUN DEFENDER
Publisher – Moremi Publishing House Ltd.
Asst. News Editor – Yusuf Oketola
Asst. Features Editor – Kazeem Badmus
Deputy Photo Editor – Shola Aderinto
Deputy Graphics Manager – Zainab Olalere
Produc on Controller – Petkola Taiwo Ibitowa
OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Behind Oranmiyan Building, Gbodofon, Off Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State.
ISSN : 0794-8050
Telephone : 0809-301-9152
Website : www.osundefender.com/index.php e-mail : osundefenderhq@gmail.com osundefenderbank@gmail.com
All correspondence to the above email addresses.
The presence of women in government is vital for inspiring future genera ons of female leaders. When young girls see women occupying posi ons of power and influence, it expands their aspira ons and empowers them to pursue leadership roles themselves. Greater women representa on in government sends a powerful message that women can contribute to decision-making processes at the highest levels and encourages more women to ac vely par cipate in polics, ul mately crea ng a more diverse and inclusive poli cal landscape.
•Read full article on www.osundefender.com
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2025
News
Why APC Withheld Osun LG Funds - Adeleke
OSUN State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has accused the opposi on All Progressives Congress of deliberately withholding local government alloca on to stop the comple on of cri cal projects by his administra on.
The governor, according to a statement by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, stated this on Wednesday while inspec ng the Lagere Flyover bridge and other projects in Ile-Ife.
The statement said Adeleke jus fied his administra on’s upgrading of infrastructure at Ile-Ife and other major towns of the state because improved infrastructure fast-tracks economic developments.
The governor vowed to push ahead with all the projects, saying IleIfe infra projects are designed to transform the state into an economic hub and a tourism capital of the South West.
The statement quoted Adeleke as saying: “I am elated to see rapid progress already recorded in our unprecedented moves to modernise and upgrade Ile Ife, the cultural capital of Yoruba people.
“Many doubted the need for our ambi ous approach to the development of Ile Ife and other ancient towns in Osun state. We told them we must think big, we must aim very high and we must seek and deliver the best of infrastructure and services to our people.
“We decided to make history by breaking from the history of abandoned projects whose funds were diverted into private pockets. We rejected private enrichment at the expense of our people. The people of Ile Ife remember the many tales of abandoned projects and diverted funds in this community. Our administra on opted for the people’s way; Osun money must serve the Osun people. That mantra of state money for state development is manifes ng at Ile Ife, Ilesa, Osogbo, Ede, Ila Orangun, Iwo, and other parts of the state.
“And to those critics who were asking us to move faster, we call their a en on to the fact that we are less
than three years old in government. Almost a year of the three years is taken up by deliberate onslaught by the opposi on to disrupt Osun development through blocking of funding and destabilisa on plots.
“Almost N100 billion of Osun fund is unjustly
seized in a bid to stop the comple on of Ile Ife flyover, Ilesa township dualisa on, Iwo township road dualisaon, Ila Orangun township road dualisa on, reconstruc on of IwoOsogbo road and the Lameco flyover bridge among others.
“Our royal fathers and good people of Osun, we will not allow the evil plan of the opposi on to come to reality. Our government will complete all ongoing major projects. We will not succumb to dark forces; hell bent on blocking Osun de-
velopment. On behalf of the Osun people, we will con nue to pursue the rule of law to secure our rights within the Federa on.” Adeleke tasked the contractor handling the projects to be up and doing, warning that he would not hesitate to
Art/Culture
The Elders Did Not Leave Us Empty-Handed
•Our culture Is Filled With Guidance — If We look.
IN today’s fast-paced world, where new technologies and modern ideas o en dominate conversaons, it is easy to forget the deep reservoirs of wisdom embedded in our cultural heritage. Yet, as the Yoruba people of Osun State and the broader African con nent reflect on their history, one undeniable truth emerges: The elders did not leave us empty-handed. Our ancestors bequeathed a wealth of guidance, values, and prac cal knowledge that remain profoundly relevant—if only we choose to look. Culture, o en misunderstood as mere tradi on or outdated prac ces, is in fact a living archive of human experience. It shapes our iden ty, informs our behavior, and offers lessons on navigating life’s complexi es. The Yoruba culture, in par cular, is rich with proverbs, oral stories,
and social norms that serve as blueprints for harmony, respect, and resilience. The elders, who once ruled and guided our communi es, invested decades—o en a life me—in cul va ng this heritage.
One key aspect of this wisdom is the value placed on respect for others and community cohesion. Elders taught us that individual success is inseparable from communal well-being. This principle echoes in the age-old Yoruba proverb, “Igi imuṣere ko ni dagba lọkàn àdán”—meaning, “A tree planted for fun doesn’t grow in the leopard’s heart.” In other words, our collec ve harmony depends on nurturing mutual respect and shared values.
Moreover, the elders le us prac cal knowledge on sustainability and environmental harmony. Long before “green” became a global buzzword, our forebears understood the delicate balance between humans and nature. The layout of
tradi onal compounds, use of local materials, and seasonal farming cycles were designed not just for survival but for sustainable prosperity. This indigenous knowledge remains cri cal as we confront environmental challenges today.
The cultural stories and fes vals that mark the Yoruba calendar are more than celebra ons—they are living lessons wrapped in rituals and symbols. They teach pa ence, perseverance, gra tude, and the importance of honoring ancestors. These narra ves connect generaons, reminding us that while mes change, the core values that bind us remain constant.
It is important to recognize that this heritage is not sta c or irrelevant. Rather, it provides a founda on upon which we can
build modern progress. Our elders’ guidance encourages us to innovate while respec ng our roots—a blend of tradion and modernity that many African socie es are striving to achieve. For example, the use of oral history as a tool for conflict resolu on or the communal decision-making processes reflect meless governance models that promote inclusiveness and fairness.
Unfortunately, many young people today have grown detached from these cultural treasures, seeing them as barriers to “modern success.”
This disconnect has led to a loss of iden ty and missed opportuni es to harness the strength embedded in our heritage. To truly progress, we must re-engage with our elders’ teachings—not as
terminate the contract of any non-performing contractor.
“I urge various contractors handling our various infrastructure projects to be up and doing. I task them to show commitment to delivering on the awarded contracts. I expect those contractors to maintain presence and ensure memorability of the roads while the contract lasts.
“Our administra on will not hesitate to terminate any non-performing contractor. Our people expect so much from the administra on and we would not allow slack in the implementa on process. I task the officials of the Ministry of Works to strengthen their monitoring of ongoing projects. The public should be regularly updated on the state of each project. Project implementa on reports should henceforth be issued every month”, the governor was further quoted as saying.
relics, but as ac ve, living resources.
In Osun State, a land steeped in Yoruba tradion, this reconnec on is par cularly vital. The people of Ede, Ife, Osogbo, and surrounding communi es have the unique opportunity to lead by example—demonstra ng how cultural wisdom can harmonize with modern development. Schools, families, and local governments can play pivotal roles in reviving these lessons, ensuring that our culture remains a source of pride and prac cal guidance.
As we reflect on the legacy of our elders, let us ask ourselves: Are we truly listening? Are we seeking the guidance they generously le behind? The answers to these ques ons may well determine the future of our communies. The elders did not leave us empty-handed. They handed us tools for life—values, wisdom, and prac ces that can illuminate our path forward. In embracing these gi s, we honor their memory and empower ourselves to build a future that is both prosperous and rooted in the richness of our past.
Kazeem Badmus
•NANS National President, Comrade Olusola Oladoja, during a courtesy visit to Osun State Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi, recently
Rights Group Challenges Osun Govt Over Abandoned Projects In Iwo
Yusuf Oketola
Arights group, Ta’awunu Human Rights Ini a ve (THURIST), has expressed concern over the prolonged abandonment of key public projects in Iwo Local Government, Osun State.
The abandoned projects according to a press release by THURIST Director General in Nigeria, Sulaymon Tadese Esq. include OSADEP facili es/projects, Iwo–Ibadan Express Road and Iwo Water Works while demanding immediate ac on on them.
The group noted that the non-comple on of the projects have undermined residents’ fundamental rights to safe water, livelihoods and dignity while issuing a 14-day ul matum to the state government to publish a status report on each project.
A copy of the release made available to OSUN DEFENDER on Wednesday reads: “For years, the non-comple on and neglect of these projects have undermined residents’ fundamental rights to safe water, road safety and mobility, livelihoods, health, and dignity. Communi es in Iwo con nue to suffer avoidable economic
losses, heightened accident risks, and limited access to potable water because cri cal public works have been le in disrepair or incomplete.
“Public projects are promises made with public funds. When they are abandoned, the community pays twice— first in taxes and then in hardship. We call on the Osun State Government and all relevant MDAs to publish a clear, me-
bound plan to complete these projects and restore public trust.
“THURIST calls on the Osun State Government to, within 14 days of this release:
“Publish a status report on each project (scope, contractors, amounts released, current stage, reasons for delay).
“Provide a compleon meline with measurable milestones for
OSAP-related works in Iwo, the Iwo–Ibadan Express Road (Iwo axis), and the Iwo Water Works.
Convene a public town-hall in Iwo with the Ministries of Works, Water Resources, Agriculture/OSADEP, Budget & Planning, and the contractor(s).
“Re-mobilise competent contractors and enforce performance guarantees/penal es where
applicable.
“Ring-fence project funds and disclose any varia ons to contract sums and designs.
“Establish an independent monitoring commi ee including civil society, engineers, community leaders, and the media.
“Water is life: Reviving the Iwo Water Works will reduce disease burden, costs of sachet/borehole depend-
Osun May Face Food Shortages – AFAN
Yusuf Oketola
THE All Farmers Associa on of Nigeria (AFAN), Osun Chapter has appealed to the state government to priorise agriculture and provide greater support to farmers, noting that such measures would encourage youth par cipa on in farming and strengthen food security.
AFAN also warned that the state could face food shortages if supplies from other regions were disrupted, stressing the need for increased local produc on.
The State Chairman of AFAN, Mr. Ganiyu Musefiu made the appeal in Osogbo at the weekend.
Musefiu further advised that government agricultural interven ons should target genuine and prac cing farmers to ensure effec ve implementa on and impact.
To ensure that farmers benefit from
ence, and the burden on women and children who trek long distances for water.
“Safe, open roads drive development: Comple ng the Iwo–Ibadan Express Road (Iwo axis) will lower transport costs, improve market access, and enhance road safety.
Agriculture and livelihoods: Func onal OSADEP projects strengthen food security, youth employment, and rural incomes.”
In the public interest, THURIST stated that, “it will file formal requests for informa on under applicable transparency and procurement laws.
“Launch a ci zen monitoring dashboard tracking milestones and expenditures.
Pursue legisla ve engagement with the Osun State House of Assembly and relevant commi ees. If necessary, explore appropriate legal remedies to secure accountability and comple on.”
THURIST urged residents, tradi onal instu ons, professional bodies, student unions, transport unions, and faith-based organizaons to add their voices and par cipate in construc ve oversight
Osun Council Boss Presents Cars To Osogbo APC Leaders
all modali es are finalised and a date officially announced.
Yusuf Oketola various agricultural programmes facilitated by both the government and the Associa on, AFAN announced plans to commence the digital registra on of farmers across the state.
The Chairman explained that the naonal body of AFAN had already embarked on the digital registra on of members na onwide, adding that the Osun chapter would kick off its exercise in the coming weeks once
Musefiu stated that in line with the associa on’s commitment to improving farmers’ welfare, a central informa on unit with a toll-free line had been established to handle farmers’ inquiries and complaints.
He urged farmers in Osun to take advantage of the registra on to formalise their membership and access available opportuni es.
THE Chairman, Osogbo Local Government, Hon. Saheed Onibonokuta, on Thursday, presented two brand new cars to leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the council area.
Onibonokuta, flanked by elected councillors and members of the council’s management team stated that the move is part of his administra on’s commitment to giving back to the community.
He noted that the gesture, which opens a series of the roll out of empowerment and life changing ini a ves for the residents of Osogbo local government, will spread to the nooks and cranny of the council area.
Onibonokuta, who thanked the elders and leaders of the APC for their support, pledged his readiness to con nuously ini ate plans and programmes that will
further raise the bar of development.
“We want to let our people know that this is a new dispensa on. That is why we have started on this note. The task ahead of us is enormous and with the me we have, we will con nue to do everything in our power to make life more meaningful for our people.
“This empowerment and support scheme will cut across every inhabitant of Osogbo LGA. Our leaders have tried and done a lot of work for us to be here today, and we must reciprocate by con nuously extending our hands of fellowship to them.
“We cannot thank Baba Fefe and Baba Onibonokuta for everything they have done for us as a party in Osogbo. We cannot but also appreciate our apex leader in Osun APC, H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola, our Na onal Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru and State Chairman, Sooko Taju-
deen Lawal,
“We are also grateful to the ED (Marine and Opera ons) at the Nigerian Ports Authority, Hon Olalekan Badmus, former Deputy Governor, H.E. Ti layo Laoye-Ponnle, Hon. Akintunde Adegboye, Hon. Adeoye Adelakun, Elders in Igbimo Agba, all leaders of our party and everybody who has backed our stay in office. We will not let you down,” he submi ed.
Responding, the two beneficiaries, Prince Adebayo Raheem Fefe - Chairman, Osogbo APC Elders Council and Pa. Gbadamosi Hamzat Onibonokuta - Vice Chairman, Osogbo APC Elders Council appreciated the leadership of the council area for the gesture. They pledged to con nue their support for the administra on, urging them to extend the hands of fellowship to all across board.
•Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun Council footbal team during a novelty match between the union and the Nigeria Police Force footbal team in Osogbo as part of activities marking the 2025 Press Week on Wednesday
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2025
THE Na onal Associaon of Nigerian Students (NANS), has appealed to the Osun State Government to consider reducing tui on fees at the Osun State University (UNIOSUN).
NANS President, Comrade Olusola Ladoja, who was in Osun on a campus tour made the appeal on Wednesday, during a courtesy visit to Governor Ademola Adeleke at the Governor’s office, Abere.
Ladoja while speaking, urged the Governor to provide official vehicles for students’ use, and priori ze road construc on within the College of Health Technology, Ilesa, among other demands aimed at improving the learning environment in the state.
He assured that NANS will con nue to partner with the state government in promo ng quality educaon, good governance, and youth development across Osun.
The NANS President also lauded the Governor for the “wonderful job “ he is doing in transforming the state and reaffirmed the students’ community’s con nued support for his administra on.
While applauding the government’s achieve-
ments in the educa on sector, Comrade Ladoja urged the Governor to do more “like the proverbial Oliver Twist.” He par cularly called for the quick resolu on of the lingering local government impasse in the state, no ng that the con nuous withholding of local government funds is
beginning to take a toll on educa on.
According to him, the diversion of funds meant for other developmental projects, including educaon, to cover local government staff salaries has nega vely impacted school funding and infrastructure
Present at the mee ng
were the Commissioner for Educa on, Hon. Eluwole Sunday Ededipo; the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Students’ Ma ers, Comrade Aaderoju Bashiru; and other cri cal stakeholders in the students’ movement, including Comrade Ebby Oluwasegun Ige and Comrade Babrinde Funsho.
IN a renewed effort to restore discipline, morality, and social responsibility among Nigerian youths, the Na onal Associa on of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone, has launched a bold ini a ve tagged “Campaign Against Social Vices.”
The groundbreaking event, held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at the Federal School of Sta s cs, Ibadan, Oyo State, marks the beginning of a transformave regional movement to reorient students and tackle the growing menace of social vices across ter ary ins tu ons in the zone.
The campaign, themed “Reclaiming the Future: Students Against Social Vices,” drew par cipants from various higher ins tu ons, student unions, civil society groups, and youth develop-
ment organiza ons.
It was designed to sensize and empower students to resist the lure of destrucve habits and embrace posi ve lifestyles that foster leadership and na onbuilding.
Speaking to the media a er the Campaign, the Assistant General Secretary of NANS Southwest Zone, Comrade Adeyemo Josiah Kayode (popularly known as Billioncodes), described the campaign as a call to conscience and collec ve responsibility for the Nigerian student community.
“This campaign represents a moral reawakening, a movement to rescue our genera on from the grip of decadence.
“Drug abuse, cul sm, cybercrime, and sexual harassment have no place in our campuses or our future. We
are building a new culture of discipline, dignity, and purpose,” Comr. Adeyemo said.
The campaign tackled cri cal issues affec ng young people, including: Drug Abuse and Substance Addic on, Cultism and Campus Violence, Cybercrime and Internet
TKazeem Badmus
HE Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, and the Odole Owa family in Ilesa have traded words over the removal of High Chief Adebola Orolugbagbe as the Odole of Ilesa.
Chief Orolugbagbe was removed last week by the Owa Obokun and replaced with a new Odole of Ilesa, High Chief Makanjuola Afolabi.
However, the Odole family rejected the removal of Orolugbagbe and the subsequent installa on of Chief Afolabi.
According to a statement signed by the Secretary of the family, Pastor Olumide Asaolu, a copy obtained by OSUN DEFENDER on Wednesday, only the state government has the power to remove the Odole.
The statement noted that the Odole tle is a recognised chie aincy under Part 2 of the Chief Law and only the governor has the statutory power to approve the selec on of and removal of the Odole of Ilesa.
The family, while rejec ng the appointment
of Chief Afolabi as the new Odole, said Chief Orolugbagbe was not accused of any wrongdoing, and the government has not no fied it of any plan to remove him as Odole of Ilesa.
“This is to state categorically that Royal High Chief Adebola Oyeleye Orolugbagbe remains the Odole of Ilesa. The Odole chie aincy is a recognised chie aincy under Part 2 of the Chief Law and therefore, there is a laid down procedure under the law for the removal of a si ng occupier and installa on of a new occupier.
“For the avoidance of doubt, it is only the state government through the governor that is statutorily empowered to approve the selec on of an Odole and also approve his removal a er following due process.
“There is no other authority under the law that is empowered to do so. As far as the enre Odole family is concerned, but for a few disgruntled members, Chief Adebola Orolugbagbe has not been accused of any wrongdoing, and the government has not no-
fied it of any plan to remove Chief Orolugbagbe as Odole of Ilesa.
“Therefore, any purported installa on of any other person by whatever name as Odole of Ilesa is not only uncondional but also unlawful and consequently null
and void,” the statement stated.
But reac ng to the statement from the Odole family, Owa Haastrup insisted that Orolugbagbe is no longer the Odole of Ilesa.
A statement by the Personal Secretary to
Fraud, Sexual Harassment and Gender-Based Violence, Examina on Malprac ce, Corrup on and Indiscipline
Mo va onal talks, and interac ve workshops gave students the opportunity to engage directly with experts, student leaders, and moral advocates.
Speakers emphasized the importance of personal responsibility, peer influence, and the role of educaon in character development.
Comr. Adeyemo reiterated NANS Southwest’s commitment to taking the campaign beyond Ibadan, promising to extend the ini a ve to ter ary ins tuons across the six states of the Southwest region, including Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Eki
“Our campuses must once again become centres
South West Students Unite Against Social Vices
of learning and moral excellence.
“We are determined to raise a genera on of students who are not only academically sound but also ethically grounded and socially responsible,” he declared.
The event was a ended by student union presidents, representa ves of youth organiza ons, members of the media, and academic staff who commended NANS for its proac ve approach in addressing societal challenges through moral and valuebased educa on.
As the campaign con nues its tour, NANS Southwest Zone reaffirms its unwavering dedica on to nurturing responsible youth leadership and promo ng a culture of peace, discipline, and progress among Nigerian students.
Owa, Family Bicker Over Installation Of New Odole Of Ilesa NANS Seek Reduction In UNIOSUN Tuition
Owa, John Abe, said the selec on of Orolugbagbe as the Odole by late Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Dr. Gabriel Aromolaran was not rec fied by the state government before the demise of the monarch.
The palace said,
Osun Girl Emerges Igbo Best Student In Anambra School
AN indigene of Osun State, Miss Saka Aliyat, has emerged as the overall best graduating student at the Choice De Immaculate Demonstra on School (CIDS), Obosi in Idemili North LGA, Anambra State of the school.
Aliyat, bagged awards in mul ple subjects, including Igbo language, English, Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Economics and Marke ng.
The Yoruba girl, who smiled home with several gi s, received addi onal awards of Best Student in Neatest/Complete Uniform, Affinity to Students, Most Hardworking Student, Most Disciplined and Most Punctual.
Speaking during the 15th Valedictory/Send-
forth Ceremony & Prize Giving Day of the school, Aliyat advised her fellow pupils to focus on their studies with more interest, enthusiasm, dedicaon, diligence and hardwork.
She urged them to follow the instruc ons of both the school teachers and that of the Director
who she described as her mentor if they intended to also come out in flying colors.
Earlier, Director of the school, Solomy Ochokwu, advised the gradua ng students to be courageous, resilient and embrace integrity and work ethics as they join the larger society.
“We state without any equivoca on that the governor will only approve the selec on and appointment of Odole whenever Owa Obokun of Ijesaland completes the selec on process and no fies the state government.
The former Odole, High Chief Ayinde Oladele Jeje, who is the last Odole of Ilesa in the government’s record, was made the substanve Odole upon the nofica on of the government by Oba Dr. Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran.
Oba. Dr. Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran has not no fied the state government of the comple on of the selec on of Mr Adebola Orolugbagbe before his demise, despite the length of the intervening period.
“Consequently, Mr. Adebola Orolugbagbe remained an ordinary person, consequent upon which he was unable to vote during the process of the selec on of Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup as Owa Obokun Adimula. Therefore, Mr Adebola Orolugbagbe’s claim to any tle is unrealis c and delusional.”
Yusuf Oketola
•Saka
Sport
Osun Lawmaker Unites Communities With Football Eagles To Open World Cup Playoffs Camp Nov 9
HON. Ibrahim Inaolaji, Chairman, House Commi ee on Works and Transport, member, Osun State House of Assembly, represen ng Irewole/Isokan, has organized a football compe on aimed at uni ng youths in his cons tuency.
The compeon was tagged ‘Inaolaji Unity Cup 2025’and held recently at Ayedade Grammar School, Ikire.
Participating communi es are Apomu, Ikire and Ikoyi.
According to Hon. Inaolaji, the compe on was put in place to promote youths engagement and grassroots sports development while assuring his con nued support for his con-
s tuents.
The First place in the compeon was rewarded with sum of N300,000, second place N200,000 and N100,000 for the third place respec vely.
THE Super Eagles camp for the 2026 World Cup (Africa playoffs) in Morocco will open on Sunday, November 10, in Rabat, the Nigeria Football Federa on has confirmed.
Nigeria, Gabon, DR Congo and Cameroon will vie for the sole cket in Africa on November 13 and 16, and the winner will qualify for the inter-connental playoffs in Mexico by March 2026.
The Super Eagles have been drawn against Gabon in the playoffs. The winner of the e will face the winner
of the other playoff semi-final between Cameroon and DR Congo in the final.
According to the Confedera on of African Football, the two semi-finals will be played on Thursday, November 13, while the final will be played at the Prince Mou-
lay El Hassan Sports Complex on Sunday, November 16.
The Super Eagles square up to the Panthers of Gabon at either the 18,000–capacity El-Barid Stadium or the 22,000–capacity Prince Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex (both in Rabat).
2026: INEC Fixes Deadline For Party Primaries
Kazeem Badmus
AHEAD of the August 8, 2026 governorship elecon in Osun State, the Independent Na onal Electoral Commission (INEC), said poli cal pares in the state must hold their primaries between November 24 and December 15, 2025.
This is in line with Sec on 84 of the Electoral Act, 2022, which mandates poli cal pares to democra cally nominate their candidates.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Osun State, Dr. Mu u Agboke, made this known on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ mee ng held at the Olusegun Agbaje Media Centre, Osogbo.
Agboke warned poli cal par es against viola ng electoral laws ahead of their forthcoming primaries, urging strict adherence to the metable and regula ons guiding the 2026 governorship elec on in the state.
“We appeal to polical par es in the state to allow internal democracy to guide their conduct”
“Free and fair elecons begin with how par es conduct their primaries. A rancourfree process will not only reduce pre-elecon li ga ons but also strengthen party unity
•As Over 151,000 Residents Register News
and legi macy of candidates,” Agboke stated.
The REC emphasized that campaign ac vi es have not commenced, warning that any poli cal party or candidate engaging in premature campaigns would be viola ng the law.
“As we speak, campaign ac vi es have not commenced. Sec on 94(1) of the Electoral Act clearly provides that campaigns shall start 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours to the elec on,” he said.
“No poli cal party is expected to campaign in whatever guise at this me.”
Agboke further reminded poli cal actors to familiarize themselves with the Commission’s guidelines tled “Conduct of Poli cal Rallies, Processions and Campaigns,” available on the INEC website.
Describing elec on management as a mul-stakeholder responsibility, the Osun REC appealed for greater collabora on between poli cal par es, civil society groups, and INEC. He par cularly called on par es to intensify voter educa on and help combat vote buying and electoral violence.
“Do not leave voter educa on to INEC alone,” he said. “Your
campaign should focus on discouraging violence and vote buying. These vices have weakened
the value of our democracy. Voters must be allowed to freely make their choices.”
On the ongoing Connuous Voter Registra on (CVR) exercise, Agboke disclosed that
Justice On Hold In Osun
•Continued from Page 2
Osun State for the past 41 days signifies anarchy and a collecve breach of ci zens’ fundamental rights to have their affairs decided by a court of competent jurisdicon.”
The party maintained that the situa on had le the judiciary in a state of paralysis, affec ng access to jus ce and inflic ng hardship on legal prac oners and ci zens whose cases remained pending before the courts.
It further stated, “It is an act of governmental irresponsibility for any state execu ve to look away while Sec ons 6 and 230 of the 1999 Cons tu on are being fragrantly breached without any plan to end it in sight.”
The APC accused the Adeleke-led administra on of being unconcerned about the cons tu onal and security implica ons of the strike, alleging
that lawlessness and disorder had taken root as a result.
The statement also lamented that suspects were languishing in police cells and correc onal facili es without trial due to the total shutdown of court opera ons across the state.
Earlier, the Osun State Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria, JUSUN, responded to the APC’s allega ons, describing the opposi on’s comments as poli cal opportunism and hypocrisy.
In its own statement signed by Comrade Idris Adedayo Adeniran, the union said the strike was not poli cally mo vated but a legi mate call for jus ce, fair treatment, and improved welfare of judicial staff
Adeniran stated, “The APC’s cri cism of the Adeleke-led government is rich, given their own failure to deliver in Osun State. The JUSUN strike is
a desperate cry for a en on to our legi mate demands, including the 2024 and 2025 promo ons and long-standing welfare issues.”
The JUSUN chairman accused the opposi on party of exaggera ng the situa on and urged it to engage the judiciary authories directly rather than poli cising workers’ grievances. He added, “We challenge the APC to provide evidence of any government that has done more for the judiciary in Osun State. Instead of poli cising the issue, the APC should urge the honourable Chief Judge to engage with us and address our demands.”
Adeniran reaffirmed the union’s commitment to peaceful dialogue and urged members of the public to support their cause for fairness and improved working condi ons within the state’s judiciary.
151,593 new registrants had completed their registra on as of October 24, 2025, commending Osun residents for their par cipa on.
He, however, urged eligible ci zens who are yet to register to take advantage of the ongoing exercise to ensure they can vote in the upcoming elec on.
The REC also commended INEC staff in the state for their dedica on and professionalism, urging them to remain commi ed despite a empts by mischief makers to spread falsehoods about the Commission.
“So many unfounded stories and fake news might be mischievously spread,” Agboke cauoned. “I implore our staff to remain professional in their du es so that, at the end, we shall all be vindicated.”
Agboke concluded by expressing op mism that with collec ve commitment from all stakeholders, the 2026 governorship elec on in Osun State would be peaceful, credible, and transparent.
“It is our hope that all stakeholders will conduct rancour-free primaries and engage in massive voter educaon to discourage violence and vote buying. Together, we can deliver a credible elec on in Osun State,” he said.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2025 VOL. 20 NO 56 www.osundefender.com, email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com
AS Osun State readies itself for another poli cal season, one ques on is beginning to echo across ci zen circles, social media threads, and party caucuses alike: Can the African Democra c Congress (ADC) truly shake the founda ons of Osun’s poli cal landscape? A party once peripheral may now be tes ng the durability of the old order.
The ADC is not a new name in Nigerian poli cs — it has long existed in the margins. But recent developments signal something different: a rebirth of ambi on. With the arrival of heavyweight figures into its fold and the splintering of alliances in exis ng par es, ADC is posi oning itself as a coali on hub, especially in the Southwest. In Osun, reports of defec ons from the PDP to ADC have already started surfacing.
Yet, it’s crucial to remember that even amid talk of disrup on, ADC faces significant headwinds. In Osun, the poli cal machines of the PDP and APC remain robust, deeply woven into local structures and patronage networks.
Strengths: What ADC Brings to the Table
1. Reimagined Iden ty & Brand. ADC’s reposi oning as a coali on party gives it room to a ract fresh faces and disillusioned poli cians from across party lines. This offers Osun’s electorate an alterna ve that is not just a flip side of exis ng choices.
2. Poli cal Capital Through Key Personali es.
With former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola now ac ve within ADC’s leadership, the party gains credibility and local appeal in the state. Such personali es may serve as bridges between local aspira ons and broader na onal narra ves.
3. Momentum from Coali ons.
Across Nigeria, ADC is becoming a shelter for newer alliances — strategic for 2027. Its growing network may provide structural and financial muscles previously beyond its reach.
Challenges: What Stands in the Way
1. Organiza onal Weakness at the Grassroots.
A house built only at the top is unstable. ADC’s major test will be building a func onal presence in
“For Osun’s voters, this moment is an opportunity — to hold actors accountable, to demand fresh vision, and to refuse politics as usual. Whether ADC becomes the vessel for that new era or another footnote will depend on its willingness to transform at the grassroots, not just in the spotlight”
By MATT OLU
OLOWOKERE
The Future Of Osun Politics: Will ADC Disrupt The
every local government of Osun. The deeper the roots, the narrower the cracks.
2. Loyalty to Established Par es. Many voters and local power brokers s ll feel ed — historically and emo onally — to the PDP or APC. Reports affirm that Governor Adeleke has formally denied any inten on to join ADC. This sends a signal to ordinary voters that ADC must convince on its own terms, not ride the
STRIKER
Status Quo?
coa ails of wil ng loyalty.
3. Risk of Opportunism. A crossing-over surge can bring quan ty but not quality. Without discipline, ADC might absorb policians with no ideology, only ambion — and such dilu on undermines long-term iden ty.
If ADC plays its cards well: - Electoral margins could shi in key LGAs — especially places where neither PDP nor APC is dominant.
- New narra ves may emerge — about governance, accountability, and youth inclusion — especially a rac ve for university towns in Osun.
- Coali onal poli cs might redraw alignments — smaller par es may see ADC as a meaningful pla orm, not just a stopgap.
But the test will come with the next gubernatorial elec on. Can ADC field credible local candidates? Can it marshal campaign logis cs across wards? Will its message resonate with voters who measure change by roads, schools, electricity — not rhetoric?
In many ways, the arrival of ADC in Osun is not the dawn of change, but the intensifica on of it. The status quo, long held together by entrenched interests and predictable party machines, is beginning to feel pressure. But to disrupt rather than merely whisper, ADC must build capacity, authen city, and trust.
For Osun’s voters, this moment is an opportunity — to hold actors accountable, to demand fresh vision, and to refuse poli cs as usual. Whether ADC becomes the vessel for that new era or another footnote will depend on its willingness to transform at the grassroots, not just in the spotlight.
Striker is not the opinion of the Columnist featured above
Facts For Survival
NIGERIA is living through dangerous mes and unfortunately, its rulers appear perplexingly slow, if not densely unconcerned, about urgent solu ons to developments with potenally catastrophic outcomes. OBJ has wri en a le er and Soyinka and others have spoken, yet the slide con nues! There is nowhere that a majority of the people will come together and agree that “let us start a civil or genocide war.”
It is a li le spark of pointless violence taken out of context by a frustrated and enraged mass, out of years and years of unmi gated poverty, oppression and injus ce, that starts an irreversible process into war, capitalised upon by various self-centred forces of doom.
As we edge agonizingly close to the pping point, all ci zens – equal agents with their elites through years of conniving ac ons and inac ons, as regards where we now find ourselves – have grave personal and collec ve responsibili es to act for the sake of redeeming the country. The beginning of posi ve ac on is clear and patrio c thinking. No individual or collec ve ac on in this regards, irrespec ve of status of the individual or organisa on, is too li le. Aggregated, they will be our saving grace, with God on the side of the country.
What are the founda ons of clear, patrio c thinking? Firstly, we must all realise that all our individual aspira ons, dreams and estates will be “gone with the winds” once “things fall apart” and the centre can no longer finally hold. The only people that stand to gain, and even then without any certainty, are the forces of darkness, the “dogs of war.” Decency, reason, personal liberty, humanism, democracy, the Senate, House
of Representa ves, State Houses of Assembly, Governors and Government Houses and Offices, Royalty, Titles, jobs, “party a er party,” naming ceremonies, decent burials, housewarming, Christmas, Easter, Eid-el-Fitr, Eid-el-Kabir, Hajj, educa on and schools, cer ficates, houses and homes, cash and banking, cars, businesses, clubbing, even “yahoo yahoo” will all be done away with – for us all; all that will be le is how to stay alive in a dog-eat-dog situa on of monumental chaos and pain; not how your family (if you even see any of the members) will stay alive, please – how YOU will stay alive!
For all those blessed enough to be able to read, there is a book urgently recommended for widespread reading today: A Long Way Gone – Memoir of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah; a young Sierra Leonean schoolboy who went to school on a fine innocent morning but was never to get back home, never to see any of his family again, but who mercifully lived through the horrors of the Sierra Leonean Civil War and lived to tell the story. Those who can read should do so on any online book platform and narrate Beah’s firsthand account to those less fortunate to have access.
Secondly, a er a clear understanding of the evil and needlessness of war and an apprecia on of our patrio c duty in redeeming the country, comes the need to pick up courage and commitment to play our li le parts. How? Every individual belongs to one associa on or the other, no man or woman lives in isolaon. There are no points and no mes for lamenta on and agonising, we need to act beginning from enlightenment
within our precious li le organisa ons – at schools, neighbourhoods, markets, religious centres, cultural groups, town mee ngs, palaces, workplaces, saloons, pubs, motor parks, inside buses, etc. No need for anxiety, hysteria or panic, simply a gentle understanding to refuse any and every provoca ve act poin ng to primordial divisions, violence and war; and a need to make government at all levels accountable accordingly, such that crimes are taken for crimes and dealt with accordingly, mely and decisively without any fear or favour of whosoever is involved! An end to ethnicisa on, poli cisa on and selec ve treatment for crimes! An end to neposm and incompetency in government! All discourse must be in the simple languages understood by the commoners, every issue broken down into the simplest basics. Leaders of every religious, cultural, corporate, Union and educa onal stables have a big role in doing this. We owe it to ourselves and future genera on to first stay alive and avoid going the way of Syria, Yemen and company. We can then heave a sigh of relief when sanity prevails and begin to rethink a new Nigeria and the best way to get there.
There are no elec ons and poli cal appointments during war, only survival, where every man, woman and child is on his/her own! 2026/2027 is s ll very far off and the way we are going, with the daily reports on unrestrained brutality and tragedies and a casual, overwhelmed, unimagina ve government, seeing 2025 Christmas as a country at peace is all in our hands, God willing. We must come back to our individual and collec ve senses and do the needful; if only for the sake of survival. A er then, can we dream, talk and work for prosperity and posterity.
OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Behind Oranmiyan Building, Gbodofon, Off Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State. All correspondence to the Asst. News Editor, YUSUF OKETOLA, Telephone: 0809-301-9152. ISSN: 0794-8050. Website: www.osundefender.com Email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com, osundefenderhq@gmail.com