Osun Defender Newspaper Online Version of June 12, 2026

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026

VOL 21 NO 45

ADC Will End Insecurity In Osun, Nigeria - Adesiji P2

•Governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Najeem Folasayo Salaam, addressing the people of Ilesa East Local Government Area of Osun

2026: Violence Court Remands May Mar Osun Man For Entering Guber Poll P 5 Ataoja’s Palace P 5 Adeleke Condemns Osogbo, Ede Attacks, Urges Tinubu To Call Oyetola, Oyebamiji To Order P 6

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026

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News

ADC Will End Insecurity y In Osun,, Nigeria g - Adesiji Michael Bamigbola HAIRMAN of the African Democra c Congress (ADC) in Osun State, Alhaji Azeez Adesiji has assured that an end will come to insecurity in Osun State and the country at large as soon as the party gets to power.

He said the party has the solu on to the menace of terrorism, banditry and other forms of challenges confron ng the security of the country.

To this end, Adesiji appealed to all the people of Osun State to vote for the ADC in the August 15 gorvernorship elecon, stressing that the party’s manifesto will be duly implemented by the governorship candidate of the party, Dr Najeem Folasayo Salaam if voted for by the people of the state.

Featuring on an interac ve programme organized by the Osun State council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Adesiji explained that the party did a thorough research before arriving at its manifesto, and

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•The Osun State ADC Governorship Candidate, Rt. Hon. Dr. Najeem Folasayo Salaam (Iwaloye), addressing his supporters during is statewide campaign tour in Ola-Oluwa Local Government Area on Wednesday therefore assured that the party’s manifesto will bring an end to all the challenges confron ng the people of the state.

The chairman said the ADC will also proffer so-

lu on to all the problems confron ng the country, especially insecurity. “security affects every aspect of development.

Without security, businesses cannot thrive,

farmers cannot cul vate their lands, investors will stay away and ci zens cannot live peacefully,” he stated.

He added that “the lives of our youths are

very important to us.

We will strengthen community-based security systems, improve intelligence gathering, invest in surveillance technology and collaborate close-

ly with security agencies, tradi onal rulers, and community leaders.

On the welfare of workers, the chairman assured civil servants of prompt payment of salary and other allowances.

He said “Workers remain the engine room of government. A government that fails to priorize its workforce cannot achieve meaningful development.

“Our administra on will ensure prompt payment of salaries and pensions. We will also improve housing and vehicle loan schemes, provide regular promo on opportuni es, and create a be er working environment for public servants.

“I have always maintained that workers deserve respect and dignity.

During difficult economic periods, governments must seek solu ons that protect jobs rather than throw people into unemployment. We will connue to pursue policies that place workers’ welfare at the center of governance,” he added.

Read full interview on pages 4 and 5.

Insecurity: Igboho Expresses Readiness To Guard Public Schools In Oyo Michael Bamigbola

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ORUBA naon ac vist, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho has assured of his readiness to guard public schools in Oyo State through his security ou it named Iru Ekun.

Igboho made his decision known in a le er wri en to the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde on Thursday.

The ac vist who is the founder of Iru Ekun Private Security Limited, in a correspondence by the security organiza on, which was addressed to the state Commissioner for Educa on and also copied Makinde, said his men are ready to partner with the government in providing effec ve security in public schools in Oyo State.

To this end, the acvist requested the state government to

OSCC, Osun Govt Hold June 12 Lecture Today Yusuf Oketola

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HE Osun Civil Socie es Coali on in collabora on with the state government will today hold its annual lecture to celebrate 33rd anniversary of June 12.

In a statement signed by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Civil Society Engagement, Comrade Oluwasegun Ige, the theme of this year celebra on is “June 12: 33 Years A er, the Struggle for Free and Fair Elec ons Con nues “.

The Guest Speaker is Senator Shehu Sanni from Kaduna State while Gov-

ernor Ademola Adeleke is the Special Guest of Honour.

“This event will bring together civil society actors, government officials, students, labour leaders, media prac oners, poli cal stakeholders, and members of the public to reflect on the gains of democracy and examine the con nuing quest for credible, transparent, and inclusive electoral processes in Nigeria with par cular emphasis on the need to have a credible elec on in Osun come August 15th 2026,” the statement read.

provide database of the number of public schools and their locaons in the state.

The le er reads, “Sir, Iru Ekun Security Network’s plan, upon receipt of the requested informaon, is to ensure that at least two trained members of the ou it are sta oned at each public school iden fied across Oyo State.

Their mandate will be to guard school environments, monitor access points, liaise with principals and community vigilantes and prevent unlawful incursion by criminal elements.

“We equally advise Oyo State government to consider the possibility of raising fences around all public schools within Oyo State in order to make the school environment easy to guard by the members of Iru Ekun Security Network, sta oned in such schools.”

According to the le er signed by Igboho and the legal adviser of Iru Ekun Security Network, Junaid Sanusi, the development underscores its commitment to construcve collabora on with government, tradional ins tu ons, and communi es in safe-

guarding schools and ending the cycle of abduc ons targe ng students and teachers.

While lauding the ongoing rescue efforts of both the Oyo State government and Federal security agencies, Igboho stressed that prevenon should be priori zed in order to ensure that schools remain safe havens

for learning, not targets for marauders.

“Time is of the essence. Every day without preven ve deployment exposes our children and teachers to avoidable risk. With proper data and perimeter security, we can create a protec ve shield around every public school in Oyo State.

“Iru Ekun Security Network reaffirms its readiness to work with the government, SUBEB, TESCOM, school management boards and community stakeholders to deliver a comprehensive and construc ve solu on that restores confidence in public educa on across Oyo State, “the le er concluded.

Oyo Kidnapping: NAPTAN Declares 3 Days Fasting And Prayer For The Release Of Abducted Teachers And Children Michael Bamigbola

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HE Na onal Parents Teachers Associa on of Nigeria (NAPTAN) has declared a three day na onal fas ng and Prayer to seek the face of God on the insecurity in the country.

Par cularly, NAPTAN which is the umbrella body of all parents of both public and private school students in the country said the fas ng and prayer is essen al for the release of the abducted teachers and children in Oyo State.

The associa on in a statement issued by its Na onal Publicity Secretary, Dr Ademola Ekundayo in Osogbo said the spiritual exercise will

hold from 1st to 3rd June, 2026.

He said the exercise is opened to all Muslims and Chris ans na onwide.

The statement reads “NAPTAN is calling on Imams, Pastors, religious leaders and the faithful across faith lines to join in united supplica on for divine interven on.

“The con nued capvity of our children and teachers in the hands of kidnappers is a pain too deep to bear. While we con nue to call on the government and security agencies to fulfill their cons tu onal duty of protec ng lives, we have reached a point where we must turn to God, the ul mate source of help

and deliverance.

“NAPTAN believes that human efforts have not been enough to bring our children and teachers home. It is me for the na on to unite in prayers and seek God’s mercy for their safe and speedy release. We urge all teachers, parents and students to join us in this three days fas ng and prayer for divine interven on.

“NAPTAN reaffirms its commitment to advoca ng for the safety and security of every Nigerian child and teacher.

The Associa on appeals to all Nigerians to stand together in faith, hope and solidarity during this period,” the statement added.

PEOPLE FIRST

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026

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HE ongoing mayhem in Osun State is part of a grand strategy by retrogressive poli cal forces to create the atmosphere through which the opinion and the vote of the people of Osun State will be irrelevant.

All of the posturing about the use of federal might is also part of a grand scheme.

The head of policing system in Osun State should actually make a public declara on of where his interest lies. It is amazing that his own intelligent reports did not indicate that criminal gangs, thugs and non state actors are out to foment trouble.

Now that the trouble has started and communi es are in a state of anxiety, what is the most senior police officer in the State doing about it?

Nigeria’s current disturbing poli cal situaon requires a very professional police service.

The people of Osun State are deserving of topnotch protec on from marauding bands. The despatch for it is going to police must be demon- get worse. The an demstrably Independent and ocra c forces are clearly out of the control of po- alarmed that Osun State li cal par es, forces and has one of the highest registra on of voters naagents.

Right now, sadly, many onwide.

It is very clear that are ques oning the independence of the police in those registering now Osun State and there is a and in record numbers, percep on that the com- in par cular the youthmand chain is compro- ful demographics are not mised they have to prove going to vote for people that this percep on is who have betrayed the wrong and we hope that people’s trust in the past.

This is why a high voters it is wrong to.

It is important for turn out on elec on day them to do so and with in August is a nightmar-

ing brought into play and grazingly parading themselves across the state.

It is an incredible demonstra on of complete contempt for any no on of civility and democra c plurality that keep poli cal actors now take photographs with a notorious gangster and ge ng it circulated and even printed in hard copy.

Presumably, if God forbid these people win the criminal gangs will now be at the epic center of State security in Osun State. No structured police service can and should accept this sort of nonsense.

The people of Osun State have been on noce and should realise that they have to register in Larger numbers and go out in record numbers to vote in August. The poli cal par es that are opposed to Nigeria’s descent into a fascist state must also work in unison to help the people of Osun State to control their own affairs.

Let us remember, in this parlour and difficult on that a democish. Scenario for reac on- situa racy is best supported aries. The lower the turn by eternal We out of voters the be er must ques vigilance. on those who for them. the children of the What is going on is a asked dispossed to put themclear a empt to send a selves in harms way for signal that the people pi ance why Their own should stay clear of the children are not leading exercise of their cons tu- the trouble making brional right by taking part gade. in the electoral process.

The answer is simple, This must be resisted. they have given their In order to create an children juicy poli cal apatmosphere of panic and pointments at the center demobiliza on, notori- and they cannot afford to ous criminals are now beput in a perilous even life-threatOSUN DEFENDER ening situa on.

Publisher – Moremi Publishing It is the children House Ltd. of the less fortuDeputy Editor – Michael Bamigbola nate who have Asst. News Editor – Yusuf Oketola to be used as Deputy Photo Editor – Shola Aderinto canon-fodder!

Deputy Graphics Manager – Zainab Olalere The people Produc on Controller – Petkola Taiwo Ibitowa of Osun State OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing must not allow House Limited, Behind Oranmiyan Building, Gbodofon, selfcentered Off Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State. people like this ISSN : 0794-8050 once again to Telephone : 0809-301-9152 take over their Website : www.osundefender.com/index.php e-mail : osundefenderhq@gmail.com State for purely osundefenderbank@gmail.com self-aggrandizeAll correspondence to the above email addresses. ment.

The Mayhem In Osun State

“In order to create an atmosphere of panic and demobilization, notorious criminals are now being brought into play and grazingly parading themselves across the state. It is an incredible demonstration of complete contempt for any notion of civility and democratic plurality that keep political actors now take photographs with a notorious gangster and getting it circulated and even printed in hard copy”

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026

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Interview

Why Osun People Should Vote For ADC In Guber Poll- Adesiji, Osun ADC Chairman The chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Osun State, Alhaji Azeez Adesiji was guest of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State council recently. The chairman featured on a guest personality programme organized by the union where he granted interview to a cross section of Journalists at the programme. In the interview, Alhaji Adesiji spoke about the ADC in Osun State, the forthcoming gorvernorship election in the state and the chances of the ADC’s candidate, Dr Najeem Folasayo Salaam among other issues. He also gave clear reasons why the people of Osun State should vote massively for the ADC in the August 15 governorship election. IBRAHIM ABDULLAHI captured the interview for Osun Defender. Excerpts:

Q

UESTION: Your party recently unveiled a 10 point developmental agenda ahead of the governorship elec on. Many ci zens have become skep cal of campaign promises.

Why should Osun people believe that the agenda will be implemented?

Adesiji: The skep cism is understandable because many poli cians have made promises in the past without delivering. However, our agenda is different because it is based on prac cal reali es and not poli cal fantasies. Every proposal contained in our manifesto has been carefully studied and linked to available resources, economic opportuni es and measurable outcomes.

We intend to improve Internally Generated Revenue, a ract private-sector investments and strengthen accountability in public spending. Our focus is not merely to make promises but to establish systems that guarantee implementa on. The people of Osun deserve a government that works for them and that is exactly what ADC is offering.

Ques on: Workers’ welfare is the first item on your agenda. What should civil servants expect under an ADC administra on?

Adesiji: Workers remain the engine room of government. A government that fails to priori ze its workforce cannot achieve meaningful development.

Our administra on will ensure prompt payment of salaries and pensions. We will also improve housing and vehicle loan schemes, provide regular promo on opportuni es, and create a be er working environment for public servants.

I have always maintained that workers deserve respect and dignity. During difficult economic periods, governments must seek solu ons that protect jobs rather than throw people into unemployment.

We will con nue to pursue policies that place workers’ welfare at the center of governance.

Ques on: Recently, you defended the salary arrangement introduced during the administraon of former Governor Rauf Aregbesola. Why was that important?

Adesiji: There has been a misconcep on about what happened during that period. Many people con nue to describe it as payment of half salaries, but that is not en rely correct.

A commi ee involving labour representa ves and government officials was established to find a solu on to the economic crisis facing the state at the me. The decision reached was salary modulaon rather than retrenchment.

Workers on Grade Levels 1 to 7 received their full salaries. Those on Grade Levels 8 to 12 received three-quarters of their salaries, while Grade Level 13 and above, including poli cal office holders, received half salaries.

The objec ve was simple: protect jobs and prevent mass retrenchment. The administra on chose to keep workers employed despite severe financial challenges. That context is o en ignored when discussing that period.

Ques on: Digital governance appears prominently in your manifesto. What exactly does that mean?

Adesiji: Digital governance simply means making government more efficient, transparent, and accessible.

We want to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy and ensure that government services can be accessed through modern technology. Processes such as recruitment, procurement, documentaon, and public service delivery should be transparent and easily monitored.

By embracing technology, government can reduce corrup on, improve efficiency, and provide faster services to ci zens.

Ques on: Accountability has become a popular campaign slogan among poli cians. What makes ADC different?

•Adesiji Adesiji: The difference is that we intend to ins tu onalize accountability.

Public funds belong to the people and must be managed responsibly. We will strengthen audit mechanisms, improve procurement procedures, and ensure that government spending is subject to proper oversight.

Transparency should not depend on the goodwill of an individual leader. It should be embedded in the structure of governance itself.

Ques on: Local government autonomy remains a major na onal conversa on. What is your posi on?

Answer: We fully support local government autonomy because development is more effec ve when governance is brought closer to the people.

Local governments should have the capacity and freedom to address local challenges. Communi es understand their priori es be er than anyone else, and government structures should reflect that reality.

Ques on: Security appears to be one of your major concerns. You recently described it as the biggest challenge facing Osun State. Why? Adesiji: Because security affects every aspect of development. Without security, businesses cannot thrive, farmers cannot cul vate their lands, investors will stay away and ci zens cannot live peacefully.

The lives of our youths are very important to us. We will strengthen community-based security systems, improve intelligence gathering, invest in surveillance technology, and collaborate closely with security agencies, tradi onal rulers, and community leaders.

We must also address unemployment and social exclusion because they o en contribute to in-

security.

Ques on: Agriculture occupies a prominent place in your agenda. How can Osun become an agricultural powerhouse?

Adesiji: Agriculture is one of the fastest ways to s mulate economic growth and create jobs.

We intend to establish farm se lements, support mechanized farming, provide access to improved seedlings and fer lizers, and strengthen agro-processing industries.

The goal is to move beyond subsistence farming and create a commercial agricultural sector capable of feeding our people and genera ng revenue.

Ques on: Educa on remains a concern for many families. What reforms are you proposing?

Adesiji: Educa on is the founda on of development.

We will strengthen free basic educa on, recruit qualified teachers, rehabilitate schools, and improve learning facili es.

Scholarship and bursary programs will be expanded, while voca onal and ICT training will receive greater a en on. Young people must be equipped with skills that are relevant to today’s economy.

Ques on: Infrastructural projects require substan al funding. How do you intend to finance them?

Adesiji: Government resources alone are not enough. We will leverage public-private partnerships and other innova ve financing models.

Our priori es include roads, electricity, water supply, rural development, and urban renewal projects. Infrastructure investments will be guided by economic impact and long-term sustainability.

Ques on: Youths o en complain about exclusion from governance. What role will they play under your administra on?

Adesiji: Youth inclusion is not nego able for us.

ADC has already reserved significant opportunies for young people within our poli cal structure.

We are commi ed to ensuring that young people par cipate ac vely in governance, policy development, and economic planning.

We will create jobs through entrepreneurship programs, ICT hubs, voca onal training centres, and investment ini a ves designed specifically for young people.

The future belongs to them, and they must have a seat at the table.

Ques on: You have also spoken about women empowerment. What prac cal measures are being proposed?

Adesiji:Women are cri cal partners in development.

Our party is commi ed to ensuring 35 percent inclusion for women in governance and public appointments. Beyond poli cal par cipa on, we will provide access to credit facili es, skills acquisi on programs, and support for women-owned enterprises.

Empowering women strengthens families, communi es, and the economy.

Ques on: Culture and tourism are o en overlooked. Why are they important to ADC? Adesiji: Osun possesses enormous cultural and tourism poten al.

Our fes vals, heritage sites, arts, music, and crea ve industries can generate employment and a ract investment.

Tourism is not merely about entertainment; it is an economic sector capable of crea ng wealth and promo ng the state’s iden ty globally.

Ques on: ADC appears closely associated with former Governor Rauf Aregbesola. What role does he play in the party’s current poli cal movement?

Adesiji: Aregbesola remains an important poli cal figure with a large followers and significant

News

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026

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2026: Violence May Mar Osun Guber Poll Yusuf Oketola

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HERE are indicaons that the August 15 gorvernorship elec on in Osun State may be marred with violence.

This followed series of a acks in the state in the recent me.

Findings by OSUN DEFENDER revealed that political killings and elec on-related violence have sharply escalated in the state, driven by violent clashes between the Accord Party and the opposi on All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the governorship elecon.

The medium reports that in the last few months, the state has witnessed high-profile killings and violence involving key stakeholders and supporters of both the Accord and APC. Both the APC and Accord Party have also embarked on destruc on of campaign billboards, a development that has heightened tension in the state.

On Tuesday, gun-wielding poli cal thugs allegedly associated with the governorship candidate of the APC, Bola Oyebamiji, were on rampage in Osogbo, the state capital, firing live bullets at innocent residents and motorists in a daring show of terror.

The incident has however a racted widespread condemna on from various poli cal par es and residents with one person reportedly dead and several injured.

Records indicated that there had been past poli cal killings and a acks in the state in the last seven months related to the 2026 Osun elec on.

Recall that the Accord Party Chairman in Osogbo Local Government, Asimiyu Ajibola was last week shot by gunmen near the MDS area of Osogbo.

•Six Killed, Several Injured In 7 Months •Adeleke Raises The Alarm, Seeks Tinubu’s Intervention police command has not •ADC Accuses APC Of Political Intimidation raised a finger to stop the a acks or arrest the a ack-

• 3rd from Right, Oṣùn State INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola in a group photograph with key electoral stakeholders at the ERM workshop, held in Òsogbo on Wednesday According to a report, Ajibola survived and was treated at the UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital.

In May 2026 at Ikire, headquarters of Irewole Local Government Area of the state, the son of the Osun Accord Party women leader, Kolade Eluyera was murdered amid rising poli cal tension and violence.

Earlier, in February 2025, during the violence surrounding control of local government secretariats between the Adeleke’s government and the APC that le mul ple people dead across the state, Irewole LGA chairman, Remi Abass was killed, as well as casual-

es in Isokan and Boripe.

In January 2026, a supporter of the APC and former unit chairman of Na onal Union of Road Transport Workers, Kazeem Oyewole was killed at Orita Elelede, Osogbo, allegedly

by Olalekan Oyeyemi popularly known as Emir.

Also, in November 2025, a leader of the Na onal Union of Road Transport Workers, Adeboye Ademoro was shot dead by some uniden fied assailants in Ilesa.

His death was a ributed to the ongoing poli cal violence in the state.

Meanwhile, the Osun APC in January condemned what it described as extra-

Interview

judicial killings of its members by hoodlums allegedly working for poli cians in the state, alleging that three of its members were killed between November and December.

The party in a statement signed by its Director of Media and Informa on, Kola Olabisi stressed that one Mr Lateef Ajitoba was murdered with several axe cuts on his body. His body was discovered inside a gutter at Oke-Ogbun, Osogbo Road, Ila-Orangun.

Adeleke Raises The Alarm, Seeks Tinubu’s Interven on Meanwhile, Governor Ademola Adeleke, has

Why Osun People Should Vote For ADC... contribu ons to public service.

Part of our mission is to demonstrate the poli cal relevance, influence, and value of his movement and supporters. His poli cal experience and grassroots network remain important assets.

Ques on: There has been public discussion about the rela onship between Aregbesola and President Bola Tinubu. What is your view?

Adesiji: Both individuals have made their contribu ons to Nigerian poli cs.

Aregbesola was poli cally ac ve long before many people knew him na onally, and he played important roles throughout his poli cal journey.

Whatever differences may exist between them are ma ers best le to God and me.

Our focus remains on delivering good governance for the people.

Ques on: Poli cal violence o en accompanies elec ons. What message does ADC have for supporters?

Adesiji: We reject violence completely.

Poli cs should be about ideas, not in mida on.

We appeal to all poli cal par es and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully before, during, and a er the elec on.

The people must be allowed to make their choices freely. ADC remains commi ed to lawful and peaceful poli cal engagement.

Ques on: Finally, why should Osun people vote for ADC? Adesiji: Because we are offering a prac cal roadmap for development.

Our agenda focuses on workers’ welfare, security, agriculture, educa on, healthcare, infrastructure, youth empowerment, women inclusion, digital governance, tourism, and economic growth.

We are presen ng solu ons, not slogans. We believe Osun can achieve greater progress, and we are ready to provide the leadership required to make that vision a reality.

raised the alarm over the ongoing poli cal violence in the state, especially Tuesday’s incident, accusing poli cal thugs loyal to the AMBO poli cal movement of carrying out coordinated a acks in parts of the state.

Adeleke alleged that several residents were injured while some persons were feared killed.

The governor condemned the a acks, which he said occurred in Ile-Ife, Ede and Osogbo, calling on President Bola Tinubu to intervene by cau oning the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, and the All Progressives Congress governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji.

Adeleke made the allega ons during an emergency press briefing at the Government House, Osogbo.

According to the governor, the a acks began in Ile-Ife before spreading to Akoda, Owode, Olaiya, Old Garage, Okefia and other parts of Osogbo.

He alleged that the attackers moved around in a convoy of 15 vehicles branded with AMBO campaign materials without any interven on from security opera ves.

“As at the me of calling this press conference, several residents were feared injured and even one or two people killed. The attackers are led by thugs known as Aleba and Asiri,” Adeleke said.

“Worst s ll, the state

ers. These a acks are outrageous, unprovoked and a deliberate step to plunge the state into chaos.”

The governor accused Oyetola and Oyebamiji of playing what he described as destabilising roles in the escala ng poli cal tension in the state.

“I condemn in the strongest possible terms the destabilising roles of Marine Minister, Gboyega Oyetola and the Osun APC candidate, Bola Oyebamiji.

The provoca on is ge ng to an unbearable level. For the past few months, I have been calming my people to maintain peace despite persistent a acks,” he said.

He also referenced recent incidents involving members of the Accord Party, alleging that poli cal violence had become a growing concern in the state.

“Just a month or so ago, a youth leader of Accord was killed at Ikire. A few days ago, the Osogbo chairman of Accord was shot at Osogbo. These a acks must stop. Our people should not be pushed to the wall,” he added.

Adeleke called on the Na onal Security Adviser (NSA), the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security chiefs to pay special a enon to developments in Osun State.

“I call on the Na onal Security Adviser, the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of DSS and other top security officials to shine a special light on Osun State.

“I appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to call Mr Oyetola and Oyebamiji to order,” the governor said.

Following the briefing, Adeleke visited several flashpoints and hospitals where vic ms of the a acks were receiving treatment.

He first visited the Osun State Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, where he met with injured vic ms, their families and medical personnel.

The governor also paid a solidarity visit to the Chairman of Accord in Osogbo Local Government Area, who was reportedly a acked last week by suspected assailants.

He later proceeded to the Co age Hospital in Ede to meet addi onal vic ms receiving treatment.

Expressing sympathy with those affected, Adele•Continued on Page 6

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026

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UNIOSUN Student Wins International Campus Grant For Lassa Fever Research Review Yusuf Oketola

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400-level Biotechnology student of Osun State University (UNIOSUN), Philip Ayomide Ogundele, has secured an interna onal research grant valued at 950 US dollars for an innova ve project aimed at improving the detec on and surveillance of Lassa fever.

The grant was awarded

by Sigma Xi – The Scien fic Research Honor Society, one of the world’s recognised organisa ons suppor ng scien fic research

and innova on.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the University Public Rela ons Officer, Ademola Adesoji, who described the award as another significant achievement for the ins tu on.

According to the statement, the grant will support Ogundele’s research proposal tled, “Wearable

Biosensor Prototype for the Detec on and Surveillance of Lassa Fever Infecon in Low-Resource Setngs.”

The project seeks to develop innova ve methods for monitoring and detecting Lassa fever, par cularly in communi es where access to healthcare facili es and diagnos c technologies remains limited.

News Adeleke Condemns Osogbo, Ede Attacks, Urges Tinubu To Call Oyetola, Oyebamiji To Order Oladele Israel

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OVERNOR Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has strongly condemned the violent a acks that reportedly occurred in parts of Osogbo, Ede, and Ile-Ife, alleging that the incidents were carried out by poli cal thugs linked to the opposion.

Addressing journalists during an emergency press briefing at the Government House in Osogbo on Monday, the governor described the a acks as coordinated, provoca ve, and capable of threatening the peace and stability of the state.

According to Adeleke, the a acks allegedly began in Ile-Ife before spreading to several communi es, including Akoda, Owode, Olaiya, Old Garage, Okefia, and other areas within Osogbo and its environs.

The governor claimed that the a ackers moved through the affected loca ons in a convoy of vehicles branded with campaign materials associated with the governorship ambi on of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, popularly known as AMBO. He alleged that sev-

•Adeleke

eral residents sustained injuries during the a acks, while reports indicated that one or two persons may have lost their lives.

Adeleke further claimed that known poli cal thugs iden fied as Aleba and Asiri were among those leading the a acks.

Expressing concern over the situa on, the governor accused the Osun State Police Command of failing to take prompt acon to stop the violence or arrest those allegedly involved.

“These a acks are unacceptable, unprovoked, and a deliberate a empt to create instability in Osun State. Poli cal disagreements should never degenerate into violence and bloodshed,” Adeleke stated.

The governor also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Naonal Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security authori es to closely monitor developments in Osun State and take proac ve measures to prevent further escala on.

He specifically appealed to President Tinubu to intervene and cau on key opposi on figures, including Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, and APC governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, over what he described as increasing poli cal tension in the state.

Adeleke recalled previous incidents of poli cal violence in Osun, including the killing of a youth leader of the Accord Party in Ikire and the recent shoo ng of the party’s chairman in Osogbo Local Government Area.

According to him, the recurring incidents suggest

a worrying pa ern that must be addressed before it threatens democra c stability and public safety.

Following the briefing, the governor visited several loca ons affected by the violence and met with vic ms receiving medical treatment.

His first stop was the Osun State Teaching Hospital in Osogbo, where he interacted with injured residents, their rela ves, and healthcare workers attending to them.

During the visit, he also met with the chairman of the Accord Party in Osogbo Local Government Area, who was reportedly a acked by suspected assailants last week.

The governor later proceeded to the Co age Hospital in Ede, where addi onal vic ms of the attacks were receiving treatment.

Speaking with vic ms and their families, Adeleke assured them that the state government would provide necessary support and would not abandon them during their recovery process.

He described the attacks as unfortunate and contrary to the peaceful character of Osun State, stressing that poli cal ambi ons should never come at the expense of human lives.

“No poli cal aspira on is worth the blood of innocent ci zens. Osun State has always been known for peace and tolerance, and we will con nue to do everything necessary to preserve that reputa on,” the governor said.

Adeleke directed security agencies to carry out a comprehensive inves gaon into the incidents and ensure that all perpetrators, regardless of poli cal affilia on or social status, are brought to jus ce.

He also disclosed that addi onal security measures were being deployed across vulnerable communi es to prevent further a acks and reassure residents of their safety.

The governor appealed

to poli cal leaders, party supporters, and residents to remain peaceful and avoid ac ons capable of undermining public order.

He urged ci zens to cooperate with security agencies by providing use-

ful informa on that could assist ongoing inves gaons while reitera ng his administra on’s commitment to protec ng lives, property, and democra c values throughout Osun State.

2026: Violence May Mar Osun Guber...

•Continued from Page 5 ke assured them that the state government would stand by them and ensure that jus ce is served.

The governor described the a acks as unfortunate and inconsistent with Osun’s reputa on as a peaceful state.

“I am deeply saddened by the reports and the injuries inflicted on innocent ci zens. No poli cal ambion is worth the blood or suffering of our people,” he said.

“Osun remains a peaceful state and we will not allow any individual or group to disrupt the peace that our people have worked hard to sustain.”

Adeleke reiterated that poli cal disagreements should never degenerate into violence, in mida on or a acks on innocent ci zens.

The governor directed security agencies to conduct a comprehensive inves ga on into the incidents and ensure that all those responsible are brought to jus ce, regardless of their poli cal affilia ons.

He also disclosed that addi onal security measures were being deployed to vulnerable areas across the state to forestall further violence.

Adeleke urged poli cal actors to cau on their supporters and avoid ac ons capable of undermining public peace and democra c stability.

He further appealed to residents to remain calm, law-abiding and coopera-

ve with security agencies as inves ga ons con nue, assuring them of his administra on’s commitment to protec ng lives and property across the state.

ADC Accuses APC Of Poli cal In mida on Reac ng to the incident, the African Democra c Congress in the state, condemned the Tuesday’s show while accusing the APC of poli cal in midaon and a calculated attempt to ins l fear among the electorate ahead of the forthcoming governorship elec on.

The party in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Abosede Oluwaseun called on the Commissioner of Police, Osun Command, to rise above every percep on of poli cal bias and ensure a thorough inves ga on into the incidents.

A copy of the statement obtained by OSUN DEFENDER read partly: “The usually peaceful town of Osogbo came under siege today as suspected APC poli cal thugs reportedly went on a shoo ng spree across the state capital in branded AMBO campaign vehicles, as well as vehicles bearing the insignia of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aided by a Police Escort vehicle.

“These gun-wielding non-state actors subjected innocent residents to fear and in mida on, firing sporadically at several strategic loca ons across the town.

“Eyewitness accounts

indicate that the armed men stopped at the Oranmiyan House, Aregbe Juncon, which serves as the Osun ADC Campaign Headquarters, where they allegedly fired several shots before proceeding to the NURTW park opposite the building and shoo ng indiscriminately at vehicles and individuals in the vicinity.

“According to witnesses, the hoodlums subsequently moved through Owode Ede, Olaiya Juncon, Old Garage, and other strategic loca ons within Osogbo, unleashing a reign of terror in broad daylight, leaving trails of agony and blood behind without any visible interven on from security agencies!

“The Osun State chapter of the African Democra c Congress (ADC) views this disturbing development as a deliberate a empt at voter in mida on and a calculated effort to ins ll fear among the electorate ahead of the forthcoming governorship elec on.

Such acts are capable of discouraging ci zens from par cipa ng in the democra c process and fostering voter apathy.

“The perpetrators of this criminal act must be iden fied, arrested, and prosecuted in accordance with the law. Osun State must not be allowed to descend into an era of poli cal violence and lawlessness.

“Lastly, no poli cal party or group should assume it has a monopoly of violence, a word is enough.”

News

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026

7

Osogbo Indigenes Receive Food Items Worth N20m Yusuf Oketola

T

HE Osogbo Progressive Union, United States of America (OPUUSA) branch on Tuesday distributed food items worth N20 million to the indigenes of the town.

The food items including rice and beans were distributed to over 130 compounds in Osogbo by the union.

Speaking on the inia ve, the Na onal President of OPUUSA, Alhaji Kazeem Adetunji, said the ini a ve was a way of giving back to the society by allevia ng the suffering of their people back home.

According to Adetunji, the pallia ve programme started in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic, but has been sustained as an annual ac vity.

He said: “Today, we are giving back to the community by distribu ng foodstuffs to the compounds of our ac ve members.

About 132 compounds are to receive bags of rice and beans (oloyin).

“Selected compounds in Isale-Osun, Ita-Olokan,

Oke-baale, Owo-ope, Orita elelede and others will benefit. Last Saturday, we were at Osun State University (UNIOSUN) auditorium where we gave 57 Osogbo Indigenes in higher ins tu ons a scholar-

ship amount of N150,000 each. It’s our annual programme which we began in 2010.

“We also did an empowerment programme for 30 indigenes who arsans materials to startup

Adunni Ade Welcomes Baby Girl In Secret two sons, has been in Birth Revelation the public eye for over a

N

started in 2020 during the Covid-19 era. We were able to give back to our people that were locked down by the covid-19 pandemic. But a er that with the current economic downturn in the

•The Na onal President of OPUUSA, Alhaji Kazeem Adetunji, declaring the distribu on of the pallia ve open at Isale Osun on Tuesday

ENTERTAINMENT Ibrahim Abdullahi OLLYWOOD actress Adunni Ade has reportedly welcomed a baby girl, revealing that she gave birth more than two years ago but kept the news private un l now.

According to reports shared on her verified social media page, the actress disclosed the development in an emoonal birthday message, explaining that she chose to keep the pregnancy and birth away from the public to protect her peace and family life.

She said the decision to stay silent for years

their ar stry. The food items we are distribu ng today are worth a sum of N20 million.

“This has been a very good ini a ve. The scholarship was started in 2010 while the pallia ve was

was inten onal, stressing that not every blessing needs public a en on, and that she preferred to enjoy motherhood privately without pressure or specula on.

The revela on included personal reflecons on her journey, describing the child as an answered prayer after years of wai ng and private struggles.

The news has since sparked reac ons across social media, with fans and colleagues congratula ng her and expressing surprise at the longkept secret.

Adunni Ade, who is already a mother of

decade and is known for her roles in both English and Yoruba Nollywood films.

As of now, neither her management nor official representa ves have issued addi onal statements beyond her social media announcement.

The story con nues to trend across entertainment pla orms as fans celebrate the actress on her latest milestone.

Yusuf Oketola

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HE Osun government has presented staff of office and cer ficates of promo on into the Osun State Council of Obas to five tradi onal rulers in Ile-Ife. The event took place at the palace of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, in Ile-Ife on Tuesday.

The royal fathers are the Obalufe of Ifeland, Idowu Adediwura; the Lowa Adimula of Ife, Adekola Adeyeye; the Elesinnla of Oosa-Alutu of Ife, Ilesanmi Olawale; the Onifeguwa of Ifeguwa, Adedire Adewole; and the Alade-Okin of Oriade town, Lekan Fashesin.

The state Governor, Senator Ademola Adele-

Osun Govt Presents Staff Of Office To Five Traditional Rulers ke represented by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Dosu Babatunde, congratulated the tradi onal rulers on their eleva on.

The Governor urged them to con nue promoting peace, unity and development within their respec ve domains.

He noted that the present administra on remains commi ed to grassroots development through the execu on of cri cal infrastructure projects, road construc on

Court Remands Man For Entering Ataoja’s Palace Yusuf Oketola N Osun State Magistrate’s Court, sitng in Osogbo has remanded a 26 year old man, Odunayo Monday, in Ilesa Correc onal Centre for entering the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo.

The prosecutor, Rasak Olayiwola, told the court that Monday jumped the fence into Ataoja’s palace, an act said to be an offence punishable under the law.

According to the charge sheet, on June 2, 2026, about 10pm, at Ataoja palace, Oja-Oba area, Osogbo, Monday jumped the fence with in-

A

tent to commit felony inside, contrary to Sec on 508 of the Criminal Code Cap 34, Vol II, Laws of Osun State, Nigeria, 2002.

The convict, who had no legal representave, pleaded guilty and asked the court for mercy.

W h e n asked why he jumped the fence, he said he •Ataoja

country, we decided to con nue doing this on an annual basis and we have been giving food items worth N20m annually.

“We were able to grow members this year from 115 to 132. This is a viable programme. We shouldn’t be in this situa on if the government is doing what it is supposed to do. Our advice is for the government to improve the situa on of our people. We cannot just leave them in this kind of economic struggle that’s why we are given back. We want to let them know that we care for them and we share their plights.”

The President posited that efforts are ongoing to give more support to the indigenous people of the state capital.

“We are doing everything possible to alleviate the suffering of our people back home. Even at the chapter level in New York, they distributed medical facili es to some clinics in Osogbo last week and other chapters are also doing a lot of other ini aves,” he added.

wanted to meet the monarch for help.

“I wanted to go and meet Kabiesi for help.

Please, forgive me,” he said.

Magistrate Muibah Olatunji convicted Monday and ordered that he be remanded in the correconal centre.

The case was then adjourned to June 29 for sentencing.

and other developmental ini a ves across the state.

The governor called on the ci zenry to con nue suppor ng his government, stressing that his administra on has demonstrated its commitment to improving the people’s welfare through impactful governance and development-oriented programmes.

Speaking, Mr Adediwura expressed apprecia on to the governor and Ooni of Ife for their support and commitment to strengthening tradi onal ins tuons across the state.

He described the recogni on as a significant milestone and pledged that they would con nue to promote peace, cultural values and development in their domains.

Similarly, the Lowa Adimula of Ife assured the government and the people of Osun that they would discharge their responsibili es a ached to the office with diligence, integrity and a strong sense of duty.

Mr Adeyeye pledged not to disappoint the confidence reposed in them and promised to con nue contribu ng to the advancement of their community and the tradi onal ins tu on.

ISSN : 0794 - 8050

News

FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026 VOL. 21 NO 45 www.osundefender.com, email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com

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HE year 1859, is some 217 back in human history. That was when the English man,é Charles Dickens wrote the book “A Tale of Two Ci es”.

It was and remains a historical novel whose theme was set in the two ci es of London and Paris, before and during the French Revolu on.

You remember Doctor Mane e, the French man, his imprisonment for 18 years in the Bas lle in Paris and his release to live in London with Lucie a daughter he had never met? All set the tone of Charles Dickens novel of that me.

Americans have a city called Budapest. It is a community in Haralson County in the US State of Georgia. In the 1890 years, some 200 or so winemaking Hungarian families were encouraged to se le in Haralson County in Georgia and a second town called Budapest, emerged very far away but in the authen c and tradi onal Hungarian culture. But long before then, the original Budapest had emerged on the Danube River in Europe.

It was when the two ci es of Buda and Pest merged as a result of what is referred to as the Austria and Hungary Compromise of 1867. We have menoned this before. But if we could refer to Budapest in Georgia, USA as one of a tale of two ci es, then the other should be that in Europe that sits on the River Danube and the ci zens love to call it “the Queen of the Danube” That Budapest in Europe is the capital of Hungary. It is globally famous for its Neo-Gothic parliament buildings, its thermal baths and the historic Buda Castle.

It is this Budapest that the football world goes to on Saturday 30th May 2026 to close the football season for 2025/26 all over Europe.

Hungary has been a football na on since the coming of the World Cup in 1930. In 1938 it was in the final match in France. So it was, also during the 1954 world cup final match played in Bern, Switzerland.

The biggest football icon or legend to have come out of Hungary was Ferenc Puskas. Today and since 2009, the golden boot award by FIFA is named a er the skills that Hungarian football star, Ferenc Puskas, brought and presented to the world in the 50’s and 60s as a legendary football star. The Hungarian football legend scored 84 great goals in 85 interna onal matches, and 514 goals in 529 matches, No wonder the highest goal-scoring FIFA award is named in his memory.

Adunni Ade Welcomes Baby Girl In Secret Birth Revelation P 7

PERSPECTIVE

BY SMOLETTE ADETOYESE SHITTU-ALAMU Puskas Arena: Here We Come The Football Associa ons Compe on which is competed for by top division European club sides all over the European Con nent annually, is organized by the Union of European Football Associa on (UEFA).

It is a con nental body that oversees the running of football on the con nennent of Europe. The club championship compe on came into being in 1955 through the efforts of a Sports Journalist Jacques Ferran, Gabriel Hanot among others.UEFA had been inaugurated in June 1954 in Basel, Switzerland, a er consulta ons among the Football Associa ons of Italy, France and Belgium.

Since the English F A withdrew from the maiden compe on, Chelsea FC that was to represent the English teams, had to withdraw from that maiden compeon.

In 1955 when the con nental club soccer event was introduced it was called the European Cup. Now it is the European Champions League. Sixteen top teams all from Europe lined up for the ini al compe on.

The first ever winner for the 195556 Season was Real Madrid of Spain.

The spanish club side defeated Reims FC of France, 4-3 in the first ever final match played on 13th June 1956 at Parc de Princes in France. Some 38,239 fans were in a endance.

Since that me a total of 70 final matches have so far been played either as European Cup or as Champion League matches. Twenty-two clubs have won both the predecessor European Cup and the current Champions League trophies.

The 2024/25 UEFA Champions League final match was played on 31st May 2025 at the Munich Football Arena

“It looks like that is what will give the Gunners the upper hand this Saturday.

Twenty-four hours separate the world from Saturday 30th May 2026, when the football will converge on Budapest and in particular on Puskas Arena”

also known as the Allianz Arena in Germany. Paris Saint-Germain of France faced Inter Milan of Italy a er the French team had edged out ( 3-1 on the aggregate) Arsenal,the North London semi-finalists. PSG went on to whitewash Inter-Milan 5-0 in the 2025 final match, which was the 70th edi on in all. That prepared the ground for today.

The 2025/26 final Champions League final match will hold inside the Puskas Arena in Budapest the Hungarian capital. It pitches the defending champions Paris Saint-Germain against Arsenal FC of London. It would be the first final match to have on board the defending champions. This has not happened since 2018. So, Saturday, 30th May 2026 clash is also going to be the first ever UEFA Champions’ final match to be hosted in Budapest or on Hungarian soil.

The UEFA final match on Saturday would be Arsenal’s second Champions’ League final match in history. 20 years ago in 2006 at the Stade de France on Saint-Dennis, the Gunners as the North London team is fondly called, met Barcelona FC in their first ever Champion’s League final match encounter. They lost 1-2 in that match. The nearest they had come to since 2006, was the semi-finals they got to in the 2025, ie last years championship. Will they surprise their numero fans all over the globe?

Before ge ng to look that way the records have it that Real Madrid of Spain have TXdominated the compe on both as a European Cup and Champions League winners. The Spanish team has won it 15 mes in the past. In 2016, 2017 and 2018, they won it 3 mes in a row. Thanks to the efforts of Cris ano Ronaldo and Luka Modric and also the managerial exper se of Zeneden Zidane.

Next is Ajax of Holland. It has won the compe on back-to-back three mes, 1971, 1972 and 1973. Those were the years Johan Cruff and Rinus Michels held sway as football legends in Holland.

In those days Bayern of Germany were called Western Germany. That great “football machine” won the trophy back to back in 1974,1975 and in1976. It was during the defining era of the all me defence generalissimo,

Franz Beckenbauer and his striker partner Gerd Muller. Has the world ever had a central defender and a top 9 like the two Bayern football ers? I doubt it.

So how would Budapest look this Saturday when the two giants come face-to-face?

Well un l the effronty PSG went to show at Allianz Arena in Munich during the second semi-final clash, the odds favoured Bayern Munich to li the trophy because of the quality players it had and the mo va on the team presented. There has always been Olise leading and looking for a Harry Kane to deliver.

Arsenal had it much easier in the semi-finals against Porto FC. As at then they did not look a team that had the needed confidence to compete at the biggest stage of world club football.

But the winning of the English Premier League last week has returned confidence to the new champions.

Mo va on and enthusiasm have come back so strong to the Mikel Arteta led team seen by many pundits as having the strongest defence in the just completed EPL. With David Raya as the best goalkeeper in England, as well as Arsenal being the team that made the most effecve use of dead balls in the 38 matches they played, the Gunners appear now, a be er mo vated team who are ready to inspire themselves to victory.

Even though they have never got there before, they can begin to see themselves as being ready for PUSKAS ARENA where they could explode.

Mar n Odegaard, Trousaard, central defender Gabriel, mid field controller, Decland Rice and the enfant terrible of English football, Bukayo Saka must be able to mo vate themselves and other players to victory.

PSG is a strong team at contemporary club level football. A team that crushed its last year’s finalists by 5 goals to nil and have moved on as a 2026 finalist, cannot be said to be an ordinary side.

In Ousmane Dembele Bradley Barcola Goncalo Ramos,their ever a acking defender, Achraf Hakimi and their fellow team mates who Manager Luis Enrique blend together, Paris Saint Germain looks a threat to any team in world football as things stands now.

But there is one thing Arteta must have known as a football player and as a head coach. It is this fact that football is unpredictable. It is a game whose result may, in fact, does not always jus fy the trend of play. Some mes the god of football does not support a par cular team. During such a bad weather or game, all the elements may do is to contrive to oppose a great team. When that happens, they end up becoming champions without much a do.

It looks like that is what will give the Gunners the upper hand this Saturday.

Twenty-four hours separate the world from Saturday 30th May 2026, when the football will converge on Budapest and in par cular on Puskas Arena.

OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Behind Oranmiyan Building, Gbodofon, Off Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State.

All correspondence to the Deputy Editor, MICHAEL BAMIGBOLA, Telephone: 0809-301-9152. ISSN: 0794-8050.

Website: www.osundefender.com Email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com, osundefenderhq@gmail.com