Confusion Hits APC, PDP
Members Over Adeleke’s
Defection Rumour
Gov Adeleke’s Brother Accused Of Stopping Construction Of Mosque In Osun School
2026: Thousands Welcome Aregbesola As ADC Begins Mass Mobilisation In Osun
●Coalition Party Ready To Rebuild Nigeria - Former Gov
●Seeks Nigerians’ Support To Dislodge APC
●Says It’s Time To Return Osun To True Progressive Leadership
MONDAY, JULY 14, 2025 - THURSDAY, JULY 17, 2025
Confusion Hits APC, PDP Members Over Adeleke’s Defection Rumour
Kazeem Badmus
THERE is confusion in the rank and file of the Peoples Democra c Party (PDP) and the opposi on All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State over the rumoured defec on of Governor Ademola Adeleke.
OSUN DEFENDER reports that in the last three weeks, rumours have swelled that the governor is planning
•PDP Leaders Endorse Adeleke’s Defection Plan •We Are Unaware Adeleke Wants To Join Us - Osun APC
to dump the Peoples Democra c Party under which he won the gubernatorial elec on for the APC.
However, since the news broke, members of the two par es have been trading words over the circumstances leading the governor to the APC.
Even though the governor has at different fora debunked the rumour, many poli cal analysts believe that Adeleke’s move to the APC is a ma er of me.
Meanwhile, the leadership of the Peoples Democra c Party (PDP) in the state, over the weekend, vowed to fol-
low the governor wherever he goes.
The Osun PDP leadership caucus passed a vote of confidence on Governor Adeleke at a mee ng held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, on Saturday. The Governor’s spokesperson, Olawale
Rasheed, in a statement, said the leaders praised the Governor’s leadership and performance in office and mandated him to con nue consulta ons with all stakeholders locally and naonally.
“The caucus mee ng has in a endance representa ves of all secons of the party and government namely the Na onal Assembly caucus, the State Assembly caucus, the State Execuve Council, the State Execu ve of the party, the Special Advisers’ Forum, the elders caucus and the state chapter of ALGON leadership,” the statement noted.
The statement further said that, a er briefing from Governor Adeleke and exhaus ve deliberaons by leaders, a communique was issued to signal its direc on on the issue at the moment.
In the communique, according to the statement, the PDP state leadership resolved to follow Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke wherever he goes.
How Buffalo Killed Hunter In Osun
Apopular hunter in Osun State, iden fied as “Alfa Elefon,” was killed by a wild buffalo during a hun ng expedi on in the Lawoka community of Ile-Ife. The incident as gathered by OSUN
Yusuf Oketola DEFENDER sparked grief within the hunters’ community triggering a retaliatory opera on by members of the Hunters Group of Nigeria (HGN), who tracked and killed the animal.
The medium learnt that the tragic incident occurred on
Wednesday, June 25, 2025, in a remote part of the forest where the deceased had gone on a hunting mission.
He was said to have been a acked by the wild buffalo, sustaining severe injuries which led to his death despite fran c efforts to save him.
His remains were interred the following day according to Islamic rites.
The news of his death spread rapidly across the community, elici ng shock and sorrow, par cularly among members of the HGN, where the deceased was highly regarded.
Buhari Served Nigeria With Deep Conviction, Unwavering Principles - Aregbesola
INTERIM Na onal
Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has mourned the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
OSUN DEFENDER reports that Buhari died on Sunday afternoon, in a London hospital a er a brief illness.
Aregbesola described the late President as a patriot who believed in Nigeria’s unity.
Aregbesola, who served as Buhari’s Minister of Interior between 2019 and
2023, also described the late Nigerian leader as a leader with deep convicon and principle which culminated in his commitment to
integrity in his years of public service.
He wrote, “Today we bid farewell to President Muhammadu Buhari, a leader who served
Nigeria with deep convic on and unwavering principle. His commitment to integrity and na onal unity defined his public service.
”Nigeria has lost a statesman who believed deeply in our poten al as one naon. We have gained the enduring example of a leader who remained true to his values.
”May Allah forgive him, accept his service, and grant him Aljannatul Firdaus. Our prayers are with his family and all Nigerians in this moment of reflec on,” Aregbesola noted.
In a swi response to the deadly a ack, the leadership of the Hunters Group of Nigeria, led by the Osun State Commander, Chief Nureni Hammed, mobilised a team of skilled hunters on a manhunt to locate the wild buffalo responsible. Community sources revealed that the opera on was intense, as the hunters combed the forest for hours before eventually sigh ng the dangerous animal. It was reportedly neutralised to forestall any further threat to lives and property around the area.
The mely interven on and decisive ac on by the hunters have been widely commended by local residents, who say the move has restored calm and boosted confidence in the safety of the area.
The incident has reignited discussions on the risks faced by local hunters and the need for enhanced safety measures in forest expedi ons.
“The mee ng, however, recognized that the Governor is s ll consulting on the next lines of ac on,” the statement noted.
But the All Progressives Congress while speaking on the issue, said Adeleke’s defec on is a rumour that holds no water.
The party stated that the rumour is being peddled by the state governor and his team to destabilise the APC, noting that such is not happening or being contemplated at all levels of the party.
“At no me was there any pressure from the presidency that Governor Adeleke should defect into our party as it has been the rumour by the governor’s lieutenants and his co-travellers,” a statement by APC’s Director of media and informa on, Kola Olabisi noted.
“It is not true that Governor Adeleke has joined the Osun State chapter of the APC, as there are cons tu onal hurdles that need to be crossed for such an endeavour to be accomplished.
“We can observe that some of the lieutenants and foot soldiers of Governor Ademola have become ecsta c beyond imagina on because of the imaginary defec on of their principal, which at this moment s ll remains within the realm of specula on.
“It is an impossible utopia for a governor to defect into our party without the knowledge of its Na onal Chairman, Mr Ali Dalori, Chief Bisi Akande, State Leader, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola now Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, state chairman, Sooko Tajudeen Lawal, the Agba Osun, and others,” the statement added.
The statement further said insinua on by some members of the PDP that President Bola Tinubu was the one making overtures to Adeleke was a lie.
“The nausea ng development is the constant lies being reeled out by the governor’s lieutenants and social media emergency writers that it was the forward-looking, hardworking and proac ve President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who has been making overtures to Governor Adeleke which is nothing but a mere concoc on to portray and create resemblance of importance to the governor,” the statement stated.
Kazeem Badmus
•Osun State Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi commissioning newly upgraded Primary Healthcare Centre Ede, recently
MONDAY, JULY 14, 2025 - THURSDAY, JULY 17, 2025
IT’S evident that much has been wri en about his transi on at the age of 82 in a London hospital. The news came as a shock to the public, who had only been aware that he was receiving medical treatment abroad.
The passing of a man, who despite his human flaws, demonstrated patriotism, serves as a poignant reminder that life has a terminal date.
“There have been disappointments along the way in assessing General Buhari’s interven on. Many had likened him to a patrio c soldier-turned-polician like General Charles de Gaulle of France, expec ng him to be a Nigerian replica in terms of fiscal discipline and stability. However, these hopes were somewhat disappointed, perhaps due to the late general delega ng too much, considering the country’s level of development.
Any assessment of President Buhari also recalls the observa on of English poli cian Enoch Powell about poli cs. In his biography of statesman Joseph Chamberlain, Powell noted that “all poli cal careers, unless terminated in midstream at a par cularly happy juncture, always end in failure.” This is the nature of poli cs, reflec ng the human condi on.
When assessing Buhari’s legacy, it’s essen al to consider the increasing moral decay in Nigeria between his entry into the army in 1962 and his transi on to poli cs. As a gallant soldier who fought in the civil war, pu ng his life on the line to save the republic, his leadership in the War Against Indiscipline (WAI) in 1984 should have marked a turning point in arres ng the country’s moral collapse. Unfortunately, the regime was short-lived, and the incoming Babangida administraon dismantled the essence and spirit of WAI, with tragic consequences that s ll plague us today.
If WAI had been modified, refined,
As We Reflect On President Muhammadu Buhari’s Transition
and ins tu onalized as a na onal ethos, Nigeria’s story might have been different. Fiscal recklessness, ballooning public debt, deficit financing, and opportunism in public life might have been arrested. The ethos of public service would have been defined for all mes.
It’s a clear indictment of Babangida that he reversed and didn’t fine-tune what could have been a way forward to rescue Nigeria from moral decay.
“We commiserate with the family of the late patriot and wish them well as they navigate the grief of his sudden loss.
Men on must be made of the endering comportment of Mrs. Aisha Buhari who has First Lady between 2015 and 2023 carried herself with great dignity and there was not a whiff of untoward during her 8 years in the lime lights. The same apprica on must also be extended to President Buhari children who behaved very sensible in those 8 years. This is in contradis ncon the o en abhormemt behavior that we have seen in the spourlt - brat
children of many heads of States accros the world and in par cular in the so called third world. Buhari and his wife clearly brought up their children with moral purpose. They must be given kudos for this. For those who benefited from Buhari’s interven on in our polity, the republic must take a sober inward look at how it could have ulized his patrio c zeal to be er effect. Despite his human flaws and transgressions, Buhari was undoubtedly a patriot. As we bid him farewell, we must learn from his life and priori ze patrio sm over pecuniary benefits as the guiding principle of public life. It’s instruc ve to note that France learned valuable lessons from Charles de Gaulle’s leadership. Despite his own flaws, de Gaulle laid the moral founda on that guided France for decades. Similarly, we must learn from Buhari’s life, acknowledging the posive effects of his interven on, such as the Petroleum Industry Bill. However, we must also understand how the republic stunted the growth of his efforts and make amends. By reclaiming the
The Discourse
“Mention must be made of the endering comportment of Mrs. Aisha Buhari who has First Lady between 2015 and 2023 carried herself with great dignity and there was not a whiff of untoward during her 8 years in the lime lights”
fundamental ethos of Buhari’s leadership – discipline and pu ng the na on above self – we can forge a be er future for our country.
“Buhari’s interven on must be assessed within the context of the merger between his Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) and the ACN. Those who nego ated and navigated this merger deserve great credit, as it was a gamechanger in uni ng progressive forces and ba ling moral decay. Buhari’s willingness to make compromises and accommodate others was crucial in construc ng a broader coali on to gain execu ve power.
His ability to bring together a massive bulk vote from the north, leveraging his rock-solid base, was instrumental in dislodging the PDP a er 16 years in power. Buhari’s leadership style echoes the late Aminu Kano’s populist movement, which represented the yearnings of the peasantry and marginalized in northern Nigeria.
It’s unlikely that any poli cian will match Buhari’s populist appeal, which rallied the masses and never wavered in its commitment. We hope to find another leader like Buhari or Aminu Kano soon, as Nigeria urgently needs a champion for change driven by the marginalized and dispossessed.
Rejoinder To Presidency’s Allegation Of Overthrow Plot: Nigerians Are Not Conspirators — They Are Victims Of Failed Promises
By Com. Sanusi A. S. Maikudi
Imust confess: I had my best laughter of 2025 when I saw that Basket Mouth Bayo Onanuga is now shedding crocodile tears, claiming that his principal, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is about to be “overthrown”. Coming from a man who spent the last two years gasligh ng a suffering na on with loud propaganda and louder insults, the irony is so thick it could choke a tyrant.
But let’s set the record straight.
A er two years of aggressive arrogance, puni ve policies, and pe y poli cking, the Tinubu administra on now seeks to wear the garb of a vic m. But Nigeria knows better. The same man who once styled himself as the architect of democracy now quivers at the sound of democra c mobilisa on. The same man who built a legacy as an opposi on figure now trembles when a credible opposi on begins to form.
Let’s be clear: Tinubu fundamentally misunderstood governance. He reduced leadership to a transac onal game of patronage, seeing appointments as tools for poli cal consolida on rather than calls to na onal service. He surrounded himself with cronies, quacks, and loyalists not with merit, not with talent, not with a na onal spirit. And now that the ship of state is sinking under the weight of that incompetence, he wants to scream sabotage?
“Let’s be clear: Tinubu fundamentally misunderstood governance. He reduced leadership to a transactional game of patronage, seeing appointments as tools for political consolidation rather than calls to national service”
Now that the administra on he cobbled together with media op cs and false promises is collapsing under economic hardship, hunger, division, and policy failure, Bayo cries foul?
Let us ask some painful but necessary ques ons:
Was it not Tinubu who shamelessly inserted himself into Rivers State poli cs, using federal might to defend a personal loyalist, Nyesom Wike, and going as far as musing about declaring a State of Emergency—not to protect ci zens, but to shield his poli cal ally?
Was it not Bola Ahmed Tinubu who abandoned the foot soldiers and loyal Nigerians who campaigned relessly for his elec on, only to embrace “come-and-chop” poli cians like Yakubu Dogara and Daniel Bwala, who fought against his ambi on with all their might?
Was it not Dr. Ganduje, the expired APC Na onal Chairman, who dared to write the Na onal Assembly to discipline a Senator for simply speaking on behalf of the people who elected him? Does that sound like a democra c party or a poli cal cult?
Was it not Tinubu and his FGN who have spent every waking moment trying to turn Nigeria into a One-Party State, s fling dissent, harassing cri cs, co-op ng opponents, and undermining the very opposi on space he once thrived in?
Was the APC and the Federal Government unaware that parliamentarians enjoy immunity on the floor of the legislature? Or has the Tinubu administra on suddenly lost all regard for the principles of democracy that brought it to power?
OSUN DEFENDER
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OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Promise Point Building, Opposite Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State.
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Was it not this same Tinubu who violated procurement laws in the murky award of the Lagos-Calabar Highway?
Was it not his administra on that suspended Senators like Natasha AkpoUduaghan, Abdul Ningi, and Ali Ndume for doing what a responsible opposi on should do expose inconsistencies, challenge injus ce, and defend the people’s mandate?
Was it not this same President who threatened the North, claiming they
•Read full article on www.osundefender.com
•Sanusi A.S. Maikudi Network for Justice Kaduna.
MONDAY, JULY 14, 2025 - THURSDAY, JULY 17, 2025
2026: Thousands Welcome Aregbesola As ADC Begins Mass Mobilisation In Osun
Kazeem Badmus
THOUSANDS of supporters, loyalists, admirers and members of the African Democra c Congress (ADC) trooped out enmasse yesterday (Sunday) to welcome the Interim Na onal Secretary of the party, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, to Osun, on his first official visit to the state since his latest appointment.
OSUN DEFENDER reports that Aregbesola was appointed as ADC’s Interim Na onal Secretary a er the Naonal Coali on Group adopted the party as the pla orm to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s re-elec on bid in 2027.
Adorned in various ou its and ADC-branded fez-caps, the mammoth crowd converged at Oranmiyan House, Osogbo, to officially welcome their leader back home.
The ADC members who trooped in from all local government areas in the state had arrived at the venue as early as 8a.m.
OSUN DEFENDER observed the electrifying atmosphere as the people of Osogbo received the former twoterm governor of the state, from Ita-Olokan, from where they proceeded to the Ataoja’s palace at Oja-Oba, where Aregbesola paid homage to the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun.
At the palace, the trio of the Asiwaju of Osogbo, Rt. Jus ce Kunle Adeigbe, Ajagunna of Osogbo, High Chief Kazeem Abayomi and the Baba Kekere of Osogbo, Chief Sulaimon Oyetunji who spoke on behalf of the monarch
•Coalition Party Ready To Rebuild Nigeria - Former Gov
Nigerians’ Support To Dislodge APC
•Says It’s Time To Return Osun To True Progressive Leadership
prayed for the success of the new party.
The Ataoja who described Aregbesola as the architect of modern Osogbo pledged the community’s connuous unalloyed support to the former Minister’s poli cal ambi ons.
A er leaving the palace, the convoy of the former Governor and his teeming supporters passed through Gbaemu, Sta on Road, Orisumbare market to Old Garage, Olaiya, before termina ng at the Oranmiyan House in Osogbo, where thousands of party members had waited for him. Addressing the gathering, Aregbesola
said the me to rebuild Nigeria is now, calling on Nigerians to join the party in taking the country back to its righ ul place.
He noted that the ADC is ready to rescue Nigeria from its current occupiers who have taken it backward, adding that the coalion party is built on substance, service, and trust.
The former governor affirmed that while obstacles are inevitable, they will not derail the party’s focus to offer Nigerians a credible, people-first alterna ve in the 2027 general
elec ons.
Aregbesola emphasized that the ADC’s mission provide a viable alterna ve with a leadership that listens, serves, and delivers.
“We are not here to trade insults,” he said. “We are here to restore what has been lost — dignity, competence, and direc on.”
Aregbesola warned that the All Progressives Congress (APC) will use every tool including - misinforma on, media manipula on, and coordinated a acks to distract, discredit, or divide the ADC.
Asks Party Mem-
bers To Be Focused, Shun Distrac ons
He, however, said the party will remain focused on its mission and will con nue engaging Nigerians across the country to shape a be er path forward.
He assured party members that the ADC is open to all Nigerians who believe in a future driven by competence, inclusion, and compassion.
“This party is for everyone. We welcome you — not as enemies of others, but as Nigerians determined to chart a be er path
•Continued on Page 5
•Members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) at Oranmiyan House, Osogbo during the event
•Residents of Osogbo, Osun State Capital, leading the ADC Interim National Secretary, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola to Ataoja’s Palace
JULY 14, 2025 - THURSDAY, JULY 17, 2025
2026: Thousands Welcome Aregbesola As ADC Begins Mass Mobilisation In Osun
•Continued from Page 4
forward.” Aregbesola said.
“We know the game — distrac ons, smears, provoca ons. But we will not play it,” he said.
“We are on a mission, and we will stay focused — building quietly, consistently, and with convic on.”
ADC Strategy Rooted In Progressive Ideology
Speaking further, Aregbesola reiterated that the ADC’s strategy is rooted in the progressive philosophy that once transformed the Western Region — a philosophy that delivered even in the worst of mes.
“We used those same principles in Osun to navigate the worst economic crisis in Nigeria’s history — and s ll delivered measurable progress,” he noted. “This is what Nigeria needs now: grounded, proven, and people-driven.”
“We are stepping into a new chapter — one of responsibility, restora on, and meaningful results. The struggles of the past were not in vain. They’ve prepared us to lead with clarity and convic on. The best of what we have to offer is s ll ahead.”
Aregbesola while advising ADC members not to be baited into unnecessary conflict or distrac ons, affirmed that, “This is our finest hour”.
“Let them throw insults. We will offer answers. Let others fight. We will build.”
Speaking Truth To Today’s Pain
On Nigeria’s current condi on, Aregbesola highlighted rising poverty, insecurity, and disillusionment, no ng that the country has gone backward.
“From every corner of the country, the people are asking: ‘Is this the future we were promised?’ And the painful truth is — things have go en worse.”
“Nigerians are not asking for miracles. They are asking for leadership that puts the people first — and delivers real, measurable results.”
Aregbesola reflected on the true meaning
of leadership, emphasizing that it must be rooted in service, not self-interest.
“Power is not a prize to seize, but a duty to serve. Not a throne to occupy, but a burden to bear with honour. True leadership gives more than it takes. That is our covenant: power is responsibility.”
Standing On A Legacy, Building A Future
priority of the ADC is to win the elec on and take over from the incumbent Governor.
cerns me presently is the 2026 gubernatorial elec on. I am confident we will win the
besola noted.
Earlier, a chie ain of the ADC in Osun State, Senator Felix Ogunwale, said he decided to join the party because he believes in the leadership of Aregbesola, urging party members to engage in a mass campaign.
He added that Nigeria can s ll rise — but only if leadership puts people before power and service before self.
“That is the future the ADC is figh ng for.”
Aregbesola closed by invoking the legacy of progressive icons like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Chief Bola Ige, and Chief Adekunle Ajasin — leaders who governed with vision, courage, and integrity.
“This is the legacy we inherit. But more importantly, it is the future we must build. Let us rise to the moment — with discipline, courage, and faith in the Nigerian people.”
Osun 2026 Gubernatorial Elec on
Speaking on the forthcoming gubernatorial elec on in the state, Aregbesola reiterated that the first
The former Minister said he is confident that the ADC will win next year’s elec on, urging members of the party to work hard in ensuring its victory.
“What really con-
elec on and the sign is good. I want to appeal to everyone of you to start campaigning from door to door. Don’t fight anyone. What we need is for people to join our party,” Areg-
Ogunwale said, “If you remember when Aregbesola came to Osun to contest for governor, how it started then is what we are witnessing again now. That is why I decided to join Aregbesola in this party.
“This is a party that
follows rules and regula ons. Things will go smoothly and we are open to anyone who wants to join the party. However, we won’t allow those who will destroy our party.”
The chairman of the party in Osun State, Dr Charles Omidiji, said ADC is poised to take over the state in 2026, no ng that the leadership of the party will work to ensure victory.
Dr. Omidiji while apprecia ng Ogbeni Aregbesola for his leadership quali es, urged party members to remain steadfast and united in their resolve to take over the state in 2026.
“We are poised to take over the state in 2026 and I am confident that we will win next year’s elec on. ADC will produce the next Governor of Osun State.
“The leadership of the party will work to ensure that we achieve victory. I want to urge our party members to remain steadfast as we journey towards ensuring that our party wins next year’s gubernatorial elec on,” Dr. Omidiji stated.
Some of the chieftains of the ADC at the event are: Alhaji Issa Adesiji AzeezChairman, Omoluabi Progressives, Alhaji Moshood Adeo , Senator Kola Ogunwale (Jumokol), Alhaji Rasaq Salinsile, Senator Adelere Oriolowo, former Cabinet members in Osun, and members of the State Coordina ng Team/ State Execu ves of the ADC/Omoluabi Progressives.
•Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola addressing members and supporters of the party
•Ogbeni Aregbesola at Ataoja’s Palace to pay homage to the monarch
MONDAY, JULY 14, 2025 - THURSDAY, JULY 17, 2025
News
AKOGRAMS ‘75 Set @50: Aregbesola Reiterates Importance Of Giving Back To Alma Mater
THE interim Na on-
al Secretary of the African Democra c Congress (ADC), Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has reiterated the importance of old students giving back to their alma mater.
Aregbesola stated this on Saturday during the 50th anniversary reunion of the 1975 set of the Arigidi Akoko Grammar School, Arigidi Akoko, Ondo State.
The former Governor of Osun, who graduated from the school, urged his colleagues to con nue to contribute to the school’s development in their li le ways, adding that the school is “our collec ve memory and eternal reference.”
Aregbesola, while delivering his speech tled “We Are Fulfilled,” said that reflec ng on the past 50 years has made him appreciate the period he was in school, which he described as the most important period of his life.
The former two-term governor of Osun State while urging his colleagues to remain steadfast, said although some of them are facing challenges, “it is the courage we bring into it that is important.
“We are a resilient people and natural survivors. We thrive, in spite of the adversi es we face; and that we are alive today is an indisputable tes mony of that.”
Aregbesola, who prayed for those who have passed on among them, urged his colleagues not to give up on their hopes and aspira ons.
Aregbesola said, “It gives me great pleasure to be here with you once again for the 50th reunion anniversary of our alma mater. The last me I was with you like this was in Akure in 2023, a er my stewardship as federal minister, when you hosted me to a recep on. I hold very fond memories of that warm and cordial welcome.
“We met in secondary school as innocent teenagers, but le as adolescents. We were full of hopes and aspira ons, with fires in our eyes, determined to take the world by storm and change it.
“In the journey, there have been smooth, rough, dangerous, and deathly bends. We all had moments of great accomplishments, disap-
pointment, fulfilment, pain, sadness, and joy.
“In some ways, great or small, we have all changed and been changed by that world. But we are s ll stand-
ing and have earned an M.Sc. (Master of Situaon and Circumstances) in the course of life. Glory be to God!
“Those among us who have passed on, may
God rest them. While we have not given up on our hopes and aspiraons and the goodness that life will s ll yield for us, we can all say that we have witnessed life
in its varie es and feel largely fulfilled by the outcomes.”
“Those of us s ll alive should appreciate the mercies of God for keeping us thus far. May
God keep giving us good health and things to be joyful about concerning our families, our community, and our na on.
“Each me I reflect on the journey these past 50 years, I come to greater apprecia on of the period I was in the school and I can say it was the most important period in my life. Though I hardly see any of you again, except occasionally and at moments like this, be assured that you are always in my thoughts. Your memory with me will be eternal.
“Some of us may be going through some challenges of health, finances, concerns about our children and grandchildren, the state of our na on, and other matters individual-specific. But I want you to know that challenges are temporary, it is the courage we bring into it that is important,” he noted.
Osun Farmers Seek Reduction In Tractor Hiring Fees
THE All Farmers Associa on of Nigeria (AFAN), Osun State chapter, has applauded both the federal and Osun State governments for their efforts in enhancing agricultural produc vity and suppor ng farmers’ opera ons across the state.
Speaking with journalists in Osogbo recently, the state chairman of AFAN, Alhaji Wahaab Bello, noted that the interven ons from both levels of government had significantly improved food produc on and made farming more appealing to a wider segment of the popula on, especially youths.
“Several youths are now into farming and the agric-value chain because the Osun and federal governments have provided lands and farm se lements, along with tractors to ease opera on,” Bello said.
He highlighted the provision of essen al farming tools and resources—such as ferlizers, chemicals, and seedlings—as major drivers of the sector’s recent growth, saying these inputs have led to improved opera ons and boun ful harvests.
“We appreciate the federal and state gov-
ernments for providing farmers with fer lizer, chemicals, seedlings and other farming implements which have been helpful in our opera ons,” he added.
According to him, the rising market value of food items has made farming a more profitable venture, a rac ng even more par cipants.
Bello also commend-
ed the Osun Rural Access and Mobility Project (ORAMP) for construc ng access roads to farms and se lements, which he said has enabled farmers to sell their produce directly without middlemen.
However, he urged the government to ease access to funding, especially grants and loans tailored to farmers’ spe-
cific needs.
“We have wri en to the federal and state governments to provide loans that farmers can easily access through the Bank of Agriculture.
“We appreciate the effort of the Osun Government that has made loans available for coopera ve socie es under the agric-value chain, but the condi ons for obtain-
After Spitting Fire, Osun PDP Chair Vows To Follow Adeleke To APC
THE Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Osun State, Mr. Sunday Bisi, has vowed to follow Governor Ademola Adeleke to any polical party he chooses to decamp to.
OSUN DEFENDER reports that this is in contraven on of the PDP chairman’s posi on earlier while speaking on the rumoured defec on of some federal lawmakers elected under the party in the state.
Bisi, had during the Osun Central Senatorial District mee ng of the party’s last week, sworn that any lawmaker who decamps from
the party will not end well.
The PDP chair, who said he was hearing about the moves of some federal lawmakers elected on the party’s pla orm in Abuja, urged them to remember where they are coming from and the sacrifices of the party.
He said, “Those represen ng us in Abuja - Senators and House of Representa ves, I’m begging them in the name of God, they should know that we are all wri ng our history.
Four years will soon lapse and for those who will use eight years, it is the same.
“Former governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola has le government since but he is s ll
relevant because he did what the people wanted. Some people have been in government and are no longer relevant.
“Those of you who are closer to our federal lawmakers, always remind them that the vote the party and the people gave them is for four years, and we are not saying they should use two years and defect to another party.
“Anyone who plans to leave a er ge ng the mandate of the party has betrayed the party and the people who voted for him, and such person will suffer the consequences, and they will not end well.
•Continued on Page 7
ing these loans should be reviewed,” he said.
He explained that although some farmers benefit from microcredit schemes through the Osun Micro-Credit Bank and the Osun Agricultural Development Corpora on (OSSADEC), the requirements for accessing these funds remain a major hurdle.
“We are appealing to the government, both federal and state, to provide loans strictly for farmers, where farmers can stand as guarantors for each other,” Bello said.
The AFAN chairman further recommended that governments should engage directly with recognized farmers’ associaons to ensure transparency and effec veness in the disbursement of funds.
He also praised the state government for subsidizing tractor hiring fees, no ng the reduc on from N35,000 to N20,000 as a welcome relief. S ll, he appealed for further reduc ons.
“Like Oliver Twist, we will appreciate it if the price is further reduced to N10,000 and the government should also help farmers clear their farmlands and allow payment for the service a er harvest,” he said.
Bello urged independent farmers to join recognized associa ons to fully benefit from government programmes and interven ons.
Kazeem Badmus
Yusuf Oketola
Kazeem Badmus
•Interim National Secretary, African Democratic Congress (ADC), Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola with fellow AKOGRAMS Alumni
MONDAY, JULY 14, 2025 - THURSDAY, JULY 17, 2025
Gov Adeleke’s Brother Accused Of Stopping Construction Of Mosque In Osun School
Yusuf Oketola
THE Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Osun State Chapter, has accused the Seventh Day Adven st Church, Ede and Dr. Deji Adeleke of forcefully stopping the construc on of a mosque inside Ede Senior High School, Ede, Osun State.
The human rights group warned that stoppage of mosque construc on anywhere in Nigeria is an infringement on Allah-given fundamental human rights of Muslims and an undisguised invitaon to religious crisis.
This was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the chairman of MURIC in Osun State, Dr. Abdul Razaq Uthman.
He said: “Our a enon has been drawn to an ugly incident which occurred in Ede, Osun State which is capable of breaching security. The construc on work of a mosque was forcefully and illegally stopped at Ede Senior High School, Ede, Osun State by members of the Seventh Day Adven st Church led by one Mr. Osundina.
“Mr Osundina, a former Principal of the school, led a group of people to the site on Friday 12th July, 2025 in collabora on with the Seventh Day Adventist Church members. It was also alleged that Dr Deji Adeleke’s personal call to the group sealed the ac on.
“Osun State Chapter of MURIC strongly condemns this act. It is illegal for any private individual or group of persons to stop another group’s construc on work without an official government document backing their acon. It also amounts to religious bigotry for one religious group to stop the construc on of a place of worship of another group.
“Informa on reaching our desk shows that necessary permission for the new construc on was obtained from the Ministry of Educa on, Osun State, via le er ref P.PRY/390T/58 of 11th June, 2025 before the project was started. The ac on taken, in our es ma on, was informed by religious fana cism and it is capable of causing religious crisis of immense propor on.
“The Seventh Day
Adven st, Ede, should note that Ede Senior High School is a government/community school not owned by the church. The claim that they were the former owners who can dictate to the school authori es is baseless.
“Neither does the claim that government took part of its land hold any water because the community actually owned the land ab ini o and those who built school on it allegedly obtained it pro bono.
“Going by the re-
ligious disharmony experienced in the socio-poli cal enclave during the immediate past administra on in the state, Osun State cannot afford to boil again on the auspices of religion. The ac on allegedly taken by Dr Adeleke and his cohorts reminds us of the old constant religious disharmony in the state by certain agents provocateur.Best online courses
“This asser on is premised on the fact that Ede Senior High School, Ede, the venue of the crisis, is one of the schools taken over by the government from the community and this brought about its name, Ede Senior High School. As a public school which attracts students from diverse religious backgrounds, the funda-
mental human rights of students should not be violated.
“Sec on 38(i) of the Cons tu on lays emphasis on freedom of religion. Therefore the construc on of mosques should not be disturbed. In addi on, 38(ii) prohibits ‘Teaching and learning of religions different from that of parents of students’. Building of mosques in schools of this nature serves the purpose. Best online courses
“Dr Deji Adeleke might be using the state government’s fiat to stop the mosque construc on thereby causing religious disharmony. But he should be reminded that this is not Adeleke University, Ede where all students are forced to a end the chapel irrespec ve of their religious backgrounds.
“The Muslim Council of Ede and other peaceloving stakeholders are implored to wade into the ma er urgently. Osun State is known for religious harmony and mutual tolerance but allowing Dr Adeleke and his cohorts to bulldoze their way through on this ma er might ignite a religious unrest in Ede in par cular and Osun state in general.
“MURIC enjoins the peace-loving Muslims of Ede to be law-abiding while necessary machinery is set in moon to se le the matter. MURIC also calls on necessary authori es in the state and the federal levels to strengthen peaceful co-existence in Ede in par cular and Osun State generally by allsowing the connuity of Ede Senior High School mosque project.”
After Spitting Fire, Osun PDP Chair Vows...
•Continued from Page 6
“We suffered as a party to campaign and make people vote for you, and after going through all this stress, whoever chooses to see the downfall of the party will not do well in life.
“So, go and talk to them. Some of them are ac ng as if they won’t come back home or need the party again, but they
should know that we will surely meet again. We are hearing all their moves in Abuja on a daily basis.
“Our lawmakers have children and they want to leave a good future for their children, but if they spoil today because of their selfish interests, it means they have damaged their future.”
But in a swi Uturn, the PDP chair-
man and other leaders of the party in Osun State said they are ready to follow Governor Adeleke to any poli cal party he is decamping to.
A statement by the spokesperson to the Governor, Olawale Rasheed, said the PDP leadership, a er a mee ng with Adeleke, promised to abide by whatever he (Adeleke) says.
There have been specula ons that
Governor Adeleke will in no distant me dump the party for the opposi on All Progressives Congress.
Art/Culture
The Weight Of Integrity: Lessons From Our Ancestors
GROWING up in Ilesha in Osun State, I was taught the importance of integrity, honesty, and hard work. These values were not just mere words; they were a way of life, passed down from our ancestors.
I recall my grandfather’s story, the Late Odofin of Isaobi, who was a humble farmer in our village. He would o en say, “A man’s word is his bond.” He lived by these words, and his integrity earned him respect and trust from our community. His commitment to fairness, honesty, and compassion inspired me to strive for similar
values in my own life.
One memorable incident that stands out was when my grandfather was offered a significant amount of money to compromise on a cocoa business deal. He refused, ci ng that it would go against his principles and damage his reputa on. His decision may have cost him financially, but it earned him something far more valuable – the respect and admira on of our community and family. Our ancestors understood that integrity was not just a personal virtue but a collec ve responsibility. They recognized that our individual ac ons have consequences for our
families, communi es, and society. By living with integrity, we contribute to building trust, fostering coopera on, and promo ng social cohesion.
In Yoruba culture, the concept of “iwa” (character) is deeply rooted. It emphasizes the importance of living a life of integrity, honesty, and compassion. Our ancestors believed that a person’s character was their most valuable asset, and that it should be nurtured and protected at all costs.
When we live with integrity, we set an example for others to follow. We create a ripple effect that can inspire posi ve change in our communi es. Integrity
promotes accountability, transparency, and fairness, which are essen al for building trust and fostering social cohesion.
In Osun State, we have a rich cultural heritage that emphasizes the importance of integrity. Our ancestors lived by these principles, and it’s essen al that we connue to uphold them in our modern society. By doing so, we can build a be er future for ourselves, our children, and genera ons
to come. As I reflect on the lessons from our ancestors, I’m reminded of the power of integrity in shaping our lives and communies. In a world where values are o en compromised, it’s essenal to revisit and reclaim the principles that have guided our forebears. By embracing integrity, we can build a stronger, more compassionate society that honors the values of our ancestors.
•Bisi
•Dr. Deji Adeleke
MONDAY, JULY 14, 2025 - THURSDAY, JULY 17 2025 VOL. 20 NO 28 www.osundefender.com, email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com
TRUE and las ng poli cal change doesn’t trickle down from the top; it bubbles up from the very roots of our communi es. In Osun State, a quiet but potent force for good has, in recent mes, receded from the public sphere: grassroots engagement.
The vibrant town hall mee ngs, the focused civic group discussions, and the impac ul local advocacy that once characterized our communi es have, for various reasons, faded into the background. However, the me is ripe for their revitaliza on, for it is through this localized par cipa on that we, the ci zens, can shi the balance of influence away from distant elites and firmly back towards addressing the real, tangible needs of our neighborhoods.
The concept is simple yet profound: when individuals ac vely par cipate in their immediate communi es, they become the architects of their own progress. Imagine a scenario where every community across Osun, from the bustling streets of Osogbo to the serene villages of Ife North, is empowered to collec vely iden fy its challenges and champion its solu ons.
This isn’t a utopian dream but a prac cal pathway to a more responsive and accountable governance.
Rebuilding this vital community power necessitates a deliberate and sustained effort. It means establishing and consistently organizing regular community forums. These forums should not be mere talking shops but dynamic pla orms for discussing cri cal issues that directly impact residents’ daily lives.
Think about the dilapidated road in your ward, the erra c power supply, the lack of potable water, or the struggling primary healthcare center. These are the issues that should dominate our discussions, with residents collec vely ar cula ng their frustra ons, proposing solu ons, and demanding accountability from those in authority.
Furthermore, true grassroots empowerment involves strategic partnerships with local influencers. Our tradi onal rulers, respected religious leaders, and credible non-
“An educated electorate votes more judiciously, demands more from their representatives, and actively safeguards our democratic space”
PERSPECTIVE
By
MATT OLU OLOWOKERE
Reclaiming Our
Voice: How Grassroots Engagement Can Transform Osun
governmental organiza ons (NGOs) hold significant sway and are o en deeply embedded within the fabric of our communi es.
Collabora ng with these individuals and groups can amplify our voices, lend credibility to our demands, and ensure that our concerns reach the ears of those who can effect change. Their involvement can bridge divides, foster unity, and help mobilize a wider spectrum of the community towards common goals. This collabora ve approach ensures that the efforts are not only bo om-up but also supported by established community structures.
Beyond demanding account-
ability, grassroots pla orms play a pivotal role in enhancing civic educa on and voter awareness. An engaged community is an informed community. When ci zens understand their rights and responsibilies, the intricacies of the electoral process, and the manifestos of those seeking public office, they are be er equipped to make informed decisions at the ballot box.
An educated electorate votes more judiciously, demands more from their representa ves, and acvely safeguards our democra c space.
This, truly, is the heartbeat of a healthy and thriving society – a ci zenry that is not just poli cally
aware but also ac vely par cipates in shaping its poli cal des ny.
Every ward, every local government area in Osun, irrespec ve of its size or perceived influence, holds immense poten al for community transforma on. All it takes is a spark – a dedicated group of individuals, however small, who are willing to come together, discuss pressing issues, and, most importantly, act.
This ac on could be as simple as dra ing a pe on, organizing a clean-up exercise, or collec vely engaging their local councilor. When such localized ini a ves begin to mul ply and resonate across the state, a powerful ripple effect takes hold. The collec ve voice of a mobilized ci zenry becomes undeniable, capable of holding the next administra on, irrespec ve of its poli cal affilia on, accountable from day one.
The me for passive observaon is over. The me for apathy has passed. It is me for us, the people of Osun, to reclaim our voices, to assert our collec ve power, and to shape the future we envision for our state. And the journey, as always, begins at home – in our communi es, in our neighborhoods, and in our very own backyards.
Let us ignite the spark of grassroots engagement and watch it illuminate the path towards a more prosperous, accountable, and cizen-led Osun.
STRIKER Striker is not the opinion of the Columnist featured above
We Can Make It Work
WE, The People…” is how the cons tu on always begins; going forwards to itemise how society is to be organised and governed for the a ainment of security of lives and property above all, then freedom and prosperity for all ci zens. The most fundamental ques on in that document is the FORM of that governance structure, and whereas the buck of responsibility stops on the table of the man holding the highest office in land, it is clear that the most essen al responsibility lies with the majority of the ci zens – WE, THE PEOPLE.
In the case of Nigeria, “we, the people” clearly stated at the very crea on of Nigeria that our form of government will be that of Federalism: a voluntary, united federa on of autonomous regions, taking into considera on our diversi es as African peoples living in the Niger Area. Since the incursion of the military in January 1966, and over the course of their lengthy, destruc ve stay, and inescapably due to their unitary chain of command, a centralised, unitary system of government has been imposed upon the country. Each cons tu on supervised by them and wri en at the beginning of every return to civil rule by their cronies con nue to state the
truth of the founding ideal, “we, the people… in the Federal Republic of Nigeria” while living a lie as an overcentralised unitary state.
To worsen a very bad status, our unimagina ve and indolent ruling elite became completely dependent for their extravagant living on oil money receipt from crude sales, consequently killing all forms of crea vity, produc vity and industry over a few decades, making poli cs the most lucra ve business from sure access to oil money flowing into the federa on accounts. All other professions and sector of life and the economy come under the mercy of poli cs as poverty and ignorance becomes prevalent.
With the civilian poli cal elites’ refusal to revisit the issue of form of government on account of the benefits they reap from the present unitarised system of oil money control and sharing at na onal and state levels, the struggle amongst them to be in charge of the accruals from the federa on alloca on accounts, as presidents and governors (and their hangers-on legislatures) has taken the nas est turn ever, as the country sinks into its most nightmarish level of insecurity, poverty and aliena on, which they care less about. Nothing is spared as tools of
poli cal manoeuvre to be in charge of oil money control: banditry, terrorism, religion, bullion vans, ethnicity, thuggery, corrup on of the judiciary and jus ce system, lack of internal party democracy, nepo sm, et cetera.
Firstly, when democracy becomes as such perverted and useless as a system of delivering security of lives and property, freedom, jus ce and prosperity, democracy s ll remains the most effec ve and efficient means of seeking remedy; all other means lead to violent conflicts and no guaranteed just end. Secondly, when ignorance, poverty and primordial sen ments like tribe and religion become the dominant reali es of society, even the basic assump on of majority rule is undermined when the majority are poor, ignorant, primi vely sen mental and consequently disposed to irraonality in their choices.
Accordingly, we are returned to where the founding fathers started, and must work back to “we, the people” in order to achieve our historic des ny. Therefore, it is clearly the me NOW for patriots across all religion, tribe, and poli cal divides, to unite around the founding fathers ideal of a federal republic, and do what needed to be done to return Nigeria to it, outside of but not ignoring current democra c, local and interna onal poli cal reali es. That remains Nigeria’s only saving grace.
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