Osun Defender Newspaper Online Version of June 19, 2026
•Osun ADC Governorship Candidate, Dr. Najeem Folasayo Salaam (Iwaloye) during his courtesy visits to Oba Akinola Oyetade Akinrera, Latiiri I, (Ife South LGA), and Oba Joseph Olubiyi Toriola, the Ogunsua of Modakeke (Ife East LGA).
FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026
I Will Rule Osun With The Fear Of God If Elected Governor - Salaam
FORMER Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly and governorship candidate of the African Democra c Congress (ADC) in the August 15 gorvernor-
•Promises adequate security, electricity
ship elec on in the state, Rt Hon Najeem Folasayo Salaam has promised that he will rule the state with ulmate fear of God if elected
the Governor.
The governorship hopeful also assured of adequate security and efficient power supply if elected the
next Governor of the state, saying that both electricity and security will be the major priori es of his government.
•Members of the Network of Osun Civil Society Groups during a peaceful protest in Osogbo where they called for the immediate redeployment of the Osun State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan.
Osun LG Crisis: Adeleke, NLC Demand Removal Of APC Council Chairmen As Party Heads To Appeal
Israel Oladele
THE poli cal crisis surrounding the leadership of local governments in Osun State deepened on Tuesday as Governor Ademola Adeleke and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) called for the immediate removal of All Progressives Congress (APC)-aligned local government chairmen from council secretariats following a recent Federal High Court judgment.
Speaking with journalists in Osogbo, Governor Ademola Adeleke said the Federal High Court had dismissed an applica on seeking the extension of the tenure of the APCbacked council chairmen, declaring that they lacked the legal standing to instute the suit.
According to the governor, the judgment reaffirmed cons tu onal provisions and previous court decisions, including pronouncements by the Supreme Court, which held that tenure elonga on for elected local government officials is uncons tu onal.
Adeleke congratulated the elected local government chairmen recognised by his administra on, stating that the court’s decision further validated their mandate.
“The dismissal of the applica on for tenure elonga on is in line with the provisions of the Cons tu on. The judgment also reinforces the posi-
on of the Supreme Court that tenure extension for elected officials is uncons tu onal,” the governor said.
He further maintained that the court held the APC-backed chairmen had no legal basis to file the acon, insis ng that whatever tenure they previously enjoyed expired in October 2025.
The governor subsequently called on the Inspector-General of Police to direct the Osun State Police Command to withdraw security personnel a ached to the affected chairmen.
He also urged all security agencies opera ng in the state to support the restora on of the elected council officials to their respec ve offices.
“I specifically direct the Commissioner of Police to discon nue security protec on for the illegal occupa on of council secretariats by the sacked chairmen. Security agencies should support the lawful restora on of elected local government officials,” Adeleke stated.
The governor also appealed to the United Bank for Africa (UBA) to disconnue any transac ons with the affected chairmen concerning local government accounts.
According to him, the bank had earlier affirmed through an affidavit that all disputed local government funds remained intact.
He stressed that only
legally recognised signatories should be allowed to operate the accounts to facilitate the payment of workers’ salaries, pensions, and other statutory obliga ons.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Osun State Council, directed members of the Na onal Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) across the state to prevent the APC-backed chairmen, councillors, and their poli cal appointees from accessing council secretariats.
In a statement signed by the Osun State NLC Chairman, Christopher Arapasopo, the labour union said the court’s judgment rendered the claims of the affected chairmen to office null and void.
The union instructed NULGE members in all 30 local government areas, local council development areas, and area offices to immediately secure council secretariats against what it described as unauthorised access.
Workers were also directed to safeguard important government offices and public property while remaining calm and connuing with their official du es.
The NLC advised workers to promptly report any a empt to forcefully gain entry into council secretariats to both the labour leadership and security agencies.
According to the union,
the direc ve takes immediate effect and will remain in force un l further no ce.
However, the Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress rejected the posi on of the governor and labour leaders, insis ng that the affected chairmen would con nue to perform their cons tu onal responsibilies.
In a statement issued by the party’s Director of Media and Informa on, Kola Olabisi, the APC disclosed that it would challenge the Federal High Court judgment at the Court of Appeal.
The party argued that un l all legal avenues are exhausted, the reinstated chairmen and councillors would remain in office and con nue carrying out their official du es.
The APC also called on security agencies to prevent any a empt to disrupt ac vi es at local government secretariats, urging its members and supporters to remain peaceful while pursuing legal redress.
The latest development further underscores the lingering dispute over the control of local government administra on in Osun State, with both the state government and the opposi on APC maintaining opposing interpreta ons of exis ng court judgments as the legal battle heads to the appellate court.
Salaam who spoke recently on a radio programme in Osogbo explained that his administra on will correct the mistakes of the past and ini ate new ideas for the greater benefit of the people of Osun State.
As a former Speaker of the state, Salaam said he has needed experience and exposure to administer the state effec vely and therefore called on the people of the state to support him in his desire to transform the state.
He assured that Osun will be the des na on of both local and foreign in-
vestors as his government will ensure conducive environment for investment through stable supply of electricity and secured environment, saying that “no investor will come to an unsafe environment.”
Besides he promised to ensure economic development of the state through agriculture, technology and Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), stressing that “we must move from dependency to produc vity. Osun must begin to create wealth internally.”
•Read full interview on page 4
Osun Guber: INEC Promises Free And Fair Poll
Shola Aderinto
THE Independent Naonal Electoral Commission, (INEC) has assured that the August 15 gorvernorship elec on in Osun State will be free, fair and credible.
The commission said it has intensified prepara ons for the elec on with an Electoral Risk Management, (ERM) sensi za on workshop aimed at safeguarding a peaceful, credible and transparent process.
The workshop held at Halatria Hotels and Towers, Osogbo, brought together key electoral stakeholders, security agencies, civil society groups, development partners and the media.
The ERM workshop was presided over by the Na onal Commissioner supervising Osun State, Prof. Kunle Ajayi, alongside officials from INEC headquarters in Abuja.
Also present was the Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola, the Administra ve Secretary, Mrs. Adelusi Victoria Temitayo, Heads of Departments, Electoral Officers, and representa ves from cri cal instu ons.
Speaking at the event, the INEC Commissioner, Prof Ajayi emphasized that Electoral Risk Management is a “proac ve and systema c framework designed to iden fy, assess and mi gate poten al threats that could undermine the credibility, safety and overall success of elec ons.”
According to the INEC boss, the increasing complexity of the electoral environment makes it impera ve for all stakeholders to deepen collabora on, enhance coordina on and jointly develop strategies to address emerging risks before, during and a er the elec on.
In her welcome address, the state Resident Electoral Commissioner, Mrs Babalola stated that the workshop serves as a cri cal pla orm
for meaningful engagement among stakeholders, aimed at sharing experiences, strengthening ins tu onal synergy and building a common understanding of electoral risks and mi ga on measures.
She reiterated the mission of the commission to conduct a fair and credible elec ons in Osun state, adding that the collabora on with stakeholders embraces team work, while the ERM is organised to proffer mi gaon to it by the partners, so that the elec on will be violent and rancour free.
The par cipants, which include Security agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Department of State Services, DSS, Nigeria Immigra on Services NIS, Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, CSOs, Media and Electoral Officers among others, resolved to ensure the forthcoming governorship elec on is conducted in an atmosphere that is free, fair, credible, peaceful, inclusive and transparent, in line with democra c best prac ces.
The workshop marks another step in INEC’s ongoing prepara ons under the leadership of Osun REC, Barr. Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, to safeguard electoral integrity and reinforce public confidence ahead of August 15 gubernatorial elecon.
The Commission also held series of workshop with stakeholders according to INEC metable for the forthcoming elec on.
INEC has fixed Saturday, August 15, 2026 for the elecon. Campaigns are scheduled to commence March 11, 2026 and end 24 hours
•Osun INEC REC
Michael Bamigbola
ON the eve of momentous events, Nigeria’s malfunc oning ins tu ons con nue to be the albatross preventing the deepening of our democracy. Unchecked it could affect it.
The manifesta on is profoundly disturbing and must be checked. Right now the registra on of voters, which is a fundamental right is being hobbled by computer glitches and bureaucra c inep tude. So deep is the trust deficit that in the conven onal wisdom it is all contrived for the advantage of a poli cal interest.
With elec ons just weeks away, there is a clear erosion of belief in the Independence of the Commissioner of Police in Osun State. This is an issue that has to be urgently sorted out, as it looks likely the trust cannot be restored. Then the federal authories must intervene and use a correc ve mechanism.
Nigeria cannot have an enduring democracy and become a compe ve economy in a globalized world without demonstrable, effec ve and inde-
The Institutional Deficit
pendent ins tu ons of the state. For example, in the last 48 hours we have seen however conten ous how independent court in the UK can be.
This has an independent impact from solidifying democracy; the judicial process in the UK bring in 3 per-
cent of the countries foreign exchange earnings because people from across the globe come to use Bri sh Court in ma ers that have nothing to do with Britain because they believe that they are assured of jus ce.
For example, 73 percent of all processes in Bri sh commercial courts have absolutely nothing to do with the Bri sh economy, the processes are ini ated by foreign companies seeking to use Bri sh Courts to sort out commercial issues and dispute.
Nigeria is not going to make any progress without building up admirably and efficacious ins tu ons of the state. We should face this debilita ng deficit with the utmost seriousness.
The issue which is now
The Discourse
“73
percent of all processes in British commercial courts have absolutely nothing to do with the British economy, the processes are initiated by foreign companies seeking to use British Courts to sort out commercial issues and dispute”
a problem starts from a method of recrui ng and selec ons. We are simply not fielding our first eleven and this has had disastrous consequences for us as a na on leading to not just under-performance but the inability of the country to deliver the dividends of democracy, create tens of millions of new sustainable jobs and thereby make life more abundant. We should take the process of recruiting band selec ng people into the public out of the poli cal turf and emulate countries such as India where the recrui ng process is sourced out to an independence private sector consul ng farm. We really cannot go on like this.
A Tale Of Legacy Destroyed: The Shame Of Nelson Mandela Freedom Park, Osogbo
UNDER the visionary leadership of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Osun State witnessed transforma ve urban renewal. One shining example was the Nelson Mandela Freedom Park in Osogbo — a once-derelict plank market and garage transformed into a sprawling beacon of beauty, recrea on, and tourism. Trees were planted, gardens flourished, si ng areas were created, and the park became a pride of the state capital. It hosted major events, including thanksgiving services with Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and symbolized progress, order, and peoplecentered governance.
Fast forward to today. What Aregbesola built with purpose and pride now lies in ruins — overtaken by weeds, goats, stagnant water, dust-covered chairs, and general decay. Reports from years back already painted a sorry picture of abandonment, and the situa on has hardly improved. The park that once added aesthe c and economic value to Osogbo has become an eyesore, a painful monument to neglect.
Yet, in a display of breathtaking audacity, the current administra on under Governor Ademola Adeleke has no shame in converging there for rallies, endorsements, and poli cal jamborees. Ar sans, market women, and supporters are mobilized to the same di-
lapidated site for grand events and re-elecon flag-offs, as if the park’s glory remains intact. They celebrate “achievements” on grounds they failed to maintain.
This is not governance — this is hypocrisy of the highest order.
● You Inherited A Beau fied Park And Allowed It To Rot
● You talk of Infrastructure But cannot
even sustain a simple recrea onal facility in the state capital.
OSUN DEFENDER
● You hold rallies amid decay, turning a symbol of legacy into a venue for poli cal theater while residents lament the loss. Osun people deserve be er than a government that destroys through negligence what predecessors built through vision. Governor Adeleke, the people see through the op cs. Fixing roads elsewhere does not excuse the rot at the heart of Osogbo. Restore the Freedom Park. Honor the legacy. Or con nue exposing the hollowness of your administra on with every rally held in its ruins.
The contrast is clear: One administra on built and beau fied; the other neglected and now shamelessly exploits. Osun is watching. History will not be kind to those who turn pride into embarrassment.
Why I Want To Be Governor Of Osun State - Najeem Salaam Interview
Rt Hon Najeem Folasayo Salaam holds a Ph.D in Political Science from the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile-Ife. An experienced grassroot politician, Salaam had served as the Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly and currently the governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Recently, he featured on a popular programme on a private radio station based in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, Rave FM where he explained his vision for the state and solicited for the support of the people of Osun State in the August 15 governorship election. Ibrahim Abdullahi captured the interview for OSUN DEFENDER. Excerpts:
OSOGBO — Rt. Hon. Najeem Salaam, former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly and governorship candidate of the African Democra c Congress (ADC), has spoken extensively on Nigeria’s democracy, governance challenges, educa on reforms, internal party dynamics, and his ambi on to govern Osun State.
Ques on: How do you assess Nigeria’s democracy since 1999, especially in rela on to June 12, 1993?
Salaam: Thank you very much.
Let me begin from the founda on, because democracy itself is something we must constantly reflect on.
Democracy, as we all know, is the government of the people, by the people and for the people. Its essence is choice— the ability of ci zens to freely select those who govern them without fear, in mida on, or manipula on.
Since 1999, Nigeria has had uninterrupted civilian rule, and that in itself is an achievement when compared to the years of military interven on. We now have regular elec ons for the presidency, governorship, na onal and state assemblies, and local government structures.
However, when we compare where we are now with the hope that came with the return to democracy, especially when we reflect on June 12, 1993, we see that there is s ll a gap.
The June 12 elec on, which was between late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola of the Social Democra c Party (SDP) and Bashir Tofa of the Na onal Republican Conven on (NRC) under the military administra on of Ibrahim Babangida, remains widely regarded as the freest and fairest elec on in Nigeria’s history.
Why is it important? Because it reflected, more than any elec on before or a er, the genuine will of the people.
Today, while we have improved structures and ins tuons, we s ll struggle with credibility issues, voter apathy, insecurity during elec ons, and the growing belief among ci zens that votes may not always count.
So, democracy is s ll evolving, but we are not yet where we ought to be.
Ques on: Despite electoral reforms and technology, why is democracy s ll struggling to meet expecta ons?
Salaam: This is a very important ques on.
Yes, we have reforms. Yes, we have technology. Yes, we have improved electoral procedures compared to the past. But democracy is not only about technology—it is about trust.
The biggest challenge we have today is trust deficit between the electorates and the electoral process.
Many ci zens go out to vote, but at the end of the process, they feel disconnected from the outcome. When that happens repeatedly, it creates apathy. People begin to ask: “Does my vote really count?”
Another serious issue is the mone sa on of poli cs. Today in Nigeria, poli cs has become extremely expensive. If you do not have financial power, even if you have capacity, integrity, and ideas, you may struggle to par cipate meaningfully.
That is not what democracy should be. Democracy should be a compe on of ideas, competence and vision and not a contest of who has more money.
We also cannot ignore insecurity. In some areas, voters are in midated, and in some cases, elec ons are influenced by fear or violence. That alone weakens democra c par cipaon.
So, while we are making progress in structure, we are s ll struggling in substance.
Ques on: Why are you contes ng for governorship elecon in Osun State?
Salaam: My ambi on is not about personal en tlement or occupa on of office. It is about contribu on and direc on. Poli cal office is not permanent. It is not inherited. It belongs to the people.
The Cons tu on clearly allows any qualified ci zen to contest elec ons, and I am simply exercising that right. But beyond that, I am coming with a different orientaon.
I o en use a simple analogy: the Bible has the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old does not mean bad, and the New does not mean rejec on. It simply means renewal, progression, and evolu on.
That is what I represent—the idea that governance must constantly renew itself with fresh thinking, new energy, and
•Salam
improved solu ons.
So my ambi on is rooted in offering new direc on, not condemning the past.
Ques on: Why should Osun people choose you over other candidates?
Salaam: This is ul mately a decision for the electorates.
But I will say this clearly: leadership is not about slogans; it is about substance.
I have served as Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly for eight years. That experience gave me deep exposure to governance, policy-making, oversight func ons, and the internal workings of government.
The legislature is not a ceremonial arm—it is a cri cal pillar of governance. It shapes laws, checks the execu ve and represents the people directly.
So I come with ins tu onal experience, but more importantly, I come with a structured manifesto.
My approach is simple: iden fy problems clearly and provide workable solu ons.
Ques on: What are your key priori es if elected governor?
Salaam: My priori es are clear and focused.
First is electricity.
Without stable power supply, no economy can grow. If we can achieve near 24-hour electricity in Osun State, we will unlock industrial growth, small business expansion, job crea on, and investment inflow.
Second is security.
No investor will come into an unsafe environment. Security is not op onal—it is founda onal.
Third is economic development through agriculture, technology, and internally generated revenue.
We must move from dependency to produc vity. Osun must begin to create wealth internally.
If we get these three pillars right, development becomes inevitable.
Ques on: What is your educa on reform plan?
Salaam: Educa on is one of my strongest focus areas.
We need more qualified teachers in our secondary schools. Many schools are understaffed, and infrastructure in some cases is outdated.
We also need rehabilita on of dilapidated schools and improvement of learning environments.
But I must be honest—educa on reform is not something you complete in 100 days.
It is a con nuous process.
What I can guarantee is that from day one, we will begin implementa on.
We will begin recruitment planning, school assessments, and structured reform processes immediately.
We also have a broader plan for youth employment, including the crea on of about 20,000 jobs across different sectors as part of economic s mula on.
Ques on: What is your posi on on the past salary policies like modulated salaries?
Salaam: Let me be very open on this.
As a leader, I accept responsibility for decisions taken while I was part of government.
We do not mean to hurt anybody.
There was a very difficult economic situa on not only in Osun State but across several states in Nigeria at that period.
The modulated salary structure was not the best policy, I agree, but it was a survival decision under extreme financial pressure.
When revenue drops and obliga ons remain, governments are forced to make very difficult choices.
However, I sincerely regret any hardship experienced by workers during that period.
That is important for me to state clearly.
Ques on: Were there any posi ve outcomes during that period?
Salaam: Yes, and it is important that history is balanced.
During that me, there were also interven ons in educa on and public service.
For example, over 6,000 teachers were recruited into permanent posi ons.
There were also welfare-related programmes, including school support ini a ves and social interven ons aimed at reducing hardship.
Unfortunately, public discourse o en focuses only on the painful aspects and ignores the broader picture.
But I accept that leadership is judged holis cally.
Ques on: Does that history affect your current polical ambi on?
Salaam: Poli cs is about percep on, but also about ideas and truth.
I do not deny my roles in government history.
However, I am not defined only by the past. I am defined by what I am offering now and what I intend to do differently.
Governance is about learning, improving and correc ng course.
That is what I represent today.
Ques on: How strong is ADC in Osun State?
Salaam: The ADC is very strong in Osun State.
We are not just par cipa ng in the elec on—we are compe ng to win it. I know some mes people judge based on public display or crowd size, but real poli cs goes beyond that.
What ma ers is structure, ideas and grassroots connecon. And I can confidently say we are well posi oned.
Ques on: There are concerns about internal party movements and defec ons. Is there a vacuum in ADC?
Salaam: There is absolutely no vacuum.
Poli cs is dynamic. People move, people re re, people return but the structure remains intact.
Leadership is not about one individual; it is about collecve ideology and organiza on. Even when individuals step aside, the pla orm con nues.
Ques on: Did you personally reach out to those who le or re red from ac ve poli cs?
Salaam: Yes, engagements were made. Not only by me personally, but by members of the poli cal structure. But again, poli cs is about freedom of associa on.
People are free to step back, return, or join other platforms. That is democracy.
Ques on: Do you feel weakened by such movements?
Salaam: No, I do not. In poli cs, individuals ma er, but they do not determine des ny. What determines success is the strength of ideas, organiza on, and the people’s acceptance.
So I remain focused.
Ques on: What is your message on poli cal violence in Osun State?
Salaam: I want to speak very clearly on this.
No poli cal ambi on is worth the life of any human being. Poli cs is about ideas, not guns. We are brothers and sisters first before poli cs. I appeal to all supporters and stakeholders to avoid violence.
Security agents must also be proac ve. Democracy cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear.
Ques on: what is your final message to the people of Osun State?
Salaam: My message is simple.
My manifesto is a contract with the people. We are offering electricity, security, educa on reform, job crea on and economic transforma on.
We are not promising perfec on—we are promising commitment, direc on, and structured progress.
At the end of the day, the decision belongs to the people. And I believe the people will choose wisely.
Osun Healthcare Centres In Shambles Despite Renovation Claim By Govt
Yusuf Oketola
SOME of the Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in Osun State are s ll in total disrepair despite claims by the state government that it had renovated and upgraded 250 PHCs in three years.
One of the PHCs begging for urgent interven on of the state government is Balogun Community PHC, Ikire, headquarters of Irewole Local Government Area which is the only facility serving the community of over 600 residents.
Constructed in 2025 by the administra on of former governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, now, the roofing sheets have blown away, windows and doors collapsed.
The walls are cracked and the environment surrounded with bush.
OSUN DEFENDER
gathered that members of the community have to travel over 5km to a neighbouring town to get basic treatment and during emergencies, chances are that travel me makes things worse for paents.
OSUN DEFENDER reliably gathered that several le ers have been wri en to the authori es including the state government, Osun West Senator, Federal House of Rep member represen ng the cons tuency and the LG chairman on the condi on of the facility but all to no avail.
Recall that the opposi on All Progressives Congress in the state had earlier cricised Governor Ademola Adeleke for the alleged collapse of primary healthcare and public educa on in the state.
In a statement issued by Bolaji Akinola,
Special Adviser to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, described the condi on of Primary Health Care
Centres (PHCs) across Osun as “a damning indictment” of the Adeleke administraon.
Insecurity: Traditional Rulers Will Play Major Role In Safeguarding Osun - Salaam
Yusuf Oketola
THE governorship candidate of the African Democra c Congress in Osun State, Dr. Najeem Salaam has stated that his administra on will give premium a en on to Safeguarding the state from external a acks through collabora ons with tradi onal rulers in the state. According to Salaam, tradi onal rulers are the closest to the grassroots, no ng that they know the nooks and crannies of
their domains.
He stated this during his campaign tour to Ife North and Ayedaade Local Governments on Tuesday in con nua on of his tour to tradi onal rulers in the state.
“The major cause of insecurity in the country today is that we have taken away power from our tradi onal rulers. In the olden days, we have hunters and other means devised to protect our town and cities from external infiltra on and a acks.
“By the special
grace of God, the security of Osun will begin from each palace with our kings and chief contribu ng to make sure our people are safe. It’s not that we would neglect conven onal securies, no. We will also strengthen them by providing incen ves to be able to perform their cons tu onal du es.”
The governorship candidate also reiterated his commitment to providing free educa on for children from primary to secondary level and free
health care service in all public hospitals for children from the age of 1-18.
More so, he promised s pends for the disabled and employment of 20,000 youths into O-YES.
Also speaking dur-
ing the visits, the Osun ADC Chairman, Alhaji Isa Adesiji urged members of the party to con nue mobilisaon.
Alhaji Adesiji assured residents of the state that the party will deliver on its campaign promises.
But the Adeleke government blamed Oyetola’s administra on for the problem, accusing it of mismanaging the whooping World Bank Grant to the tune of 20 million dollars grant and claimed to have devoted the same to renova on of PHCs in the state.
They described the claim as mere smoke screen or window dressing.
How Cable Theft Led To Traffic Light Outage In Osun
Yusuf Oketola
Asuspected the of copper wire connec ng the traffic light at Olaiya Junc on, Osogbo, Osun State on Monday led to heavy traffic at the intersec on.
OSUN DEFENDER gathered that the traffic light cable had been stolen on four different occasions this year, ac-
cording to a site engineer. Due to the nonfunc oning of the light, it took the intervenon of transport union workers in direc ng traffic.
Speaking with OSUN DEFENDER, one of the engineers who visited the scene said they traced the fault and found out that the ca-
ble had been stolen.
He said: “We came here this morning to trace where the fault came from. But we eventually found out that the cable under the drainage was stolen. This is the fourth me such an incident would happen. It will cost us about N300,000 to replace the stolen cable and fix the fault.”
The medium learnt that the CCTV cameras on the traffic lights are not func oning.
•Governorship candidate of ADC, Rt. Hon. Najeem Salam Addressing pary faithful during campaign rallies in Ife North and Ayedaade Local Government Areas
FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026
Osun CP: Pressure Continues To Mount
IN view of the rising poli cal violence in Osun State, the Network of Osun Civil Society Groups has called on the Inspector-General of Police, Disu to immediately redeploy the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ibrahim Gotan ahead of the August 15 governorship elec on.
The civil society groups, residents of the state have lost confidence in CP Gotan, no ng that his replacement will serve as a reassurance of the neutrality of the Nigeria Police Force ahead of the forthcoming Guber poll.
The CSOs made the call during a peaceful protest in Osogbo on Monday and contained in a statement issued by Comrade Olowu Emmanuel (Social Economic and Civic Rights Advocacy (SECRA), Comrade Wale Balogun (Mekunnu Koya Movement Realty), Comrade Demola Yaya (Ci zenship and Ci zen Awareness Centre (CCAC), Comrade Tobiloba Richards Agboola (Good Governance Ini a ve ini a ve (GGI) (CD), Comrade Raufu Sodiq Akinkunmi (Youths for Be er Nigeria), Comrade Olanrewaju Stephen (Centre for Accountability and Democracy) and Mrs Janet Olayemi Ghadebo (Grassroots Watch).
The groups expressed concern over the worsening security situa on, escala ng poli cal tension, and growing public distrust in the neutrality of the Nigeria Police Force in Osun as the state approaches the Governorship Elec on in less than two months.
“As organisa ons commi ed to democracy, human rights, electoral integrity, accountability, peace, and the rule of law, we have carefully monitored developments across Osun State and have become increasingly alarmed by the numerous complaints, allega ons, and public concerns regarding the conduct of the Osun State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan.
“Our concern is not based on a single incident but on a pa ern of developments that have collecvely undermined public confidence in the ability of the Police Command to provide the impar al security leadership required during this sensi ve electoral period.
“Between 8th and 9th May 2026, widespread destruc on and vandalisaon of campaign billboards were reported across several local government areas, including Irewole, Ayedaade, Ife, Irepodun, Oriade, and Osogbo. Despite the scale of these
incidents and the public outcry that followed, many ci zens remain concerned about the absence of visible accountability and the failure to bring those responsible to jus ce.
“The killing of Mr. Kolade Eluyera in Ikire on 9th May 2026 further heightened public anxiety and fears regarding poli cal violence in the State. The incident generated widespread condemna on and renewed calls for proac ve security measures to prevent a deteriora on of the poli cal atmosphere.
“Similarly, reports of a acks on the Accord Party State Secretariat, campaign offices, and the ADC State Secretariat in Osogbo, coupled with allega ons of harassment and in mida on of polical supporters, as well as recurring incidents of poli cally related violence, have con nued to deepen public apprehension.
“Most recently, the shoo ng incidents reported in parts of Osun State on 9th June 2026, which le several persons injured, have further heightened concerns about the capacity of the state’s security architecture to guarantee public safety and electoral
peace.
“The Network is parcularly worried that despite repeated incidents of violence, in mida on, a acks on poli cal actors, destruc on of campaign materials, and threats to public order, ci zens connue to express concerns regarding the pace, effecveness, and transparency
of inves ga ons and law enforcement responses.
“These concerns are not limited to civil society organisa ons alone.
Members of the Na onal Assembly and the Osun State House of Assembly have publicly called for the redeployment of the Commissioner of Police, alleging par sanship, com-
promise, and a failure to inspire public confidence in the neutrality of operaons within the state.
“Whether these allegaons are ul mately proven or not, the reality remains that public confidence in the neutrality of the Police Command has been significantly weakened. In any democracy, percepon ma ers. Elec ons can only be regarded as credible when ci zens have confidence that security agencies will act fairly, professionally, and without poli cal bias.
“The Network has received numerous complaints from residents, community leaders, youth groups, poli cal stakeholders, and concerned ci zens who fear that the current atmosphere of insecurity, mistrust, and poli cal tension may discourage voters from par cipa ng in the forthcoming governorship elec on.
The Network further calls on the Inspector-General of Police to urgently review the security situaon in Osun State and take all necessary measures to guarantee a peaceful electoral environment.
“The Police Service Commission to examine
Osun Police Launch Crackdown On Fake, Covered Number Plates Across State
Israel Oladele
OSUN State Police Command has commenced a statewide enforcement opera on targe ng vehicles and motorcycles opera ng with fake, altered, covered, or unregistered number plates.
According to the command, the exercise is aimed at addressing rising security concerns linked to the use of uniden fiable vehicles by criminal elements to carry out unlawful ac vi es and evade detec on.
The enforcement opera on, which began on Monday, follows a direcve from the InspectorGeneral of Police and is intended to strengthen crime preven on, improve intelligence gathering, and enhance overall public safety across the state.
In a statement issued in Osogbo, the Police Public Rela ons Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, said the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, had instructed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and tac cal units to begin full enforcement across all 30 local government areas of Osun State.
The opera on will fo-
cus on vehicles and motorcycles with concealed or defaced number plates, fake registra on details, or those opera ng without proper documentaon.
The police explained that criminals o en exploit such vehicles to carry out a acks, transport illegal items, and avoid iden fica on during inves ga ons, making it difficult for security agencies to track offenders.
Ojelabi said the inia ve is part of broader efforts to strengthen the state’s security architecture, par cularly at a me when law enforcement agencies are intensifying surveillance opera ons across communi es.
He emphasized that proper vehicle iden ficaon remains a key tool in modern policing, as it helps officers trace suspects, inves gate crimes, and respond swi ly to security threats.
“The exercise is aimed at improving our capacity to iden fy vehicles, track suspects, and strengthen public safety across Osun State,” the police spokesperson stated.
The Command stressed that the operaon is not intended to
harass or in midate lawabiding ci zens but to ensure full compliance with vehicle registra on laws and enhance public security.
Officers deployed for the exercise have been directed to carry out their du es professionally and within the confines of the law, while ensuring respect for ci zens’ rights.
Motorists, transport operators, fleet owners, and motorcycle riders have been advised to ensure that all vehicles are properly registered and that number plates remain clearly visible at all mes.
The police also warned against the use of s ckers, nted covers, decora ve materials, or any form of obstruc on that could
conceal registra on numbers, no ng that violators would face appropriate sanc ons.
Residents were further encouraged to support the opera on by providing mely and credible informa on to security agencies on suspicious vehicles or ac vi es within their communi es.
Security analysts have described the enforcement as a proac ve measure capable of improving crime detec on and reducing the opera onal mobility of criminals who rely on disguised or unregistered vehicles.
complaints and concerns regarding policing operaons in the State.
“Security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering and ensure the arrest and prosecu on of all perpetrators of poli cal violence, regardless of poli cal affilia on.
“The Independent Na onal Electoral Commission (INEC), elec on observers, civil society organisa ons, tradi onal ins tu ons, and religious leaders to intensify voter confidence-building efforts ahead of the elec on.
“All poli cal par es and their supporters reject violence, in mida on, and hate-driven poli cs and commit themselves to peaceful democra c engagement.
“The people of Osun State deserve a peaceful, secure, free, fair, and credible elec on. The preserva on of democracy requires not only impar al ins tu ons but also public confidence in those instu ons.
“The ballot must prevail over the bullet. Democracy must triumph over violence, fear, in mida on, and every form of perceived ins tu onal bias,” the statement concluded.
Recall that Governor Ademola Adeleke, has raised alarm over what he described as worsening insecurity and alleged poli cal violence in parts of the state, accusing the Commissioner of Police of failing to cooperate with other security agencies.
The governor said the situa on had become intolerable and insisted he had escalated the ma er to top security authori es, including the military and police leadership.
“I am very, very sad. The Commissioner of Police in Osun State is not coopera ng,” Adeleke said.
Gotan Kicks, Dismisses Calls For His Redeployment
The Commissioner of Police, while reac ng to the development, stated that calls for his removal will inspire him to be better at his job.
The development comes amid heightened security ac vi es across Osun State, as police and other security agencies con nue efforts to maintain law and order alongside increasing poli cal ac vi es in the build-up to upcoming elec ons. With enforcement now in full swing, motorists across the state are expected to comply strictly with registra on requirements as security opera ves intensify checks on major roads, highways, and within communi es.
CP Gotan described the agita on for his removal as part of the fundamental human rights of residents.
He stated this during a press conference at the Police Command headquarters, Osogbo on Monday.
“I am aware that some individuals have called for my redeployment out of Osun State. That is part of their fundamental rights. Having recorded the achievements within the period under review, my conscience is very clear on this,” he said.
Yusuf Oketola
•Gotan
On The Campaign Trail
2026: We Will Support Najeem Salaam To Deliver On His Manifesto Promises - Loye
The Osun East Senatorial Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Hon. Babatunde Loye tells YUSUF OKETOLA about his programmes for his constituency, political journey and why Osun people should vote Dr. Najeem Salaam on August 15 as the Governor of the state.
CAN we meet you sir?
My name is Babatunde Olaniyi Loye.
The Balogun of Ila-Orangun. I was born in Ibadan, Oyo State but from Ilesa, Osun State. My local government is Atakumosa East local Government. I have an insurance firm and also Director of Maineflow Microfinance Bank in Nigeria. I have been doing insurance for over two decades.
Why are you contes ng for the Osun East Senatorial seat and what’s your vision?
My vision is to have a very industrialized cons tuency where there would be security of proper es and where a common man would have normal basic ameni es. The shelter, food and clothing. We know what’s happening in Nigeria now, insecurity, people are suffering, especially the common man and the vision is to make sure that my people are protected and then not only that, they enjoy life. God didn’t create us to suffer. Once we have food in our stomach, the rest is simple. Poverty allevia on is one of our programs. What is the current situa on of development in Osun East and how do you plan to improve the lives of your cons tuents?
Looking at Osun East because I have been actually going round since 2021. We have eleven local governments including the Area Office. The development there is really not improving. One thing I have no ced is that we need to start manufacturing our own products. We don’t have manufacturing companies and we have land, farmers, all their produce, we should start making things out of it. We are not producing anything. I remember in the days of our founding fathers such as Chief Obafemi Awolowo, cocoa money was used to build monumental projects.
We don’t have it anymore. What I’m planning for my own cons tuency to encourage business owners to come in and invest in my cons tuency and this can be done because a lot of people are just looking for land and they are going to bring in their money. I have a lot of colleagues because I have been all over the world. I have court friends that are ready to come and invest in the state. I have medical doctors that are ready to come and put hospitals in my cons tuency and I’m really working on that.
The level of development is going to improve because when we have them invest in the land, things will change. There was a gentleman we talked about how he could actually bring in some of his colleagues when it comes to mining
•Loye
because we should look at what is happening in Osun especially my cons tuency. We have a lot of areas where we can start mining difficult things and I have called friends that are going to do that.
How will you handle cons tuency projects and do you believe in stomach infrastructure?
“My advice for the people of Osun is when they come out on August 15 to vote, they should vote right and not fight. They should not sell their vote by voting for the right person and I believe that my candidate, Dr. Najeem Salaam Iwaloye is the right candidate and I can tell you that he is well read, he is doctor and a very peaceful and calm person and he knows what he is doing. All what he has put together in his manifesto, I know he will do them because he is a trusted person and he had done it before when he was a speaker”
When you say project, we have a lot of different projects. Let us look at some of my du es I will be doing as a senator. We will be passing bills in the Senate as we make laws. When it comes to the cons tuency, we look for different things that we can do for our people. We talk about educa on, health, agriculture and by making sure our people enjoy basic ameni es. Looking at my cons tuency, I will try and make sure everything the government said they would do like roads, my job is to monitor it by making sure it comes to my cons tuency. Part of my duty is to make sure there is no corrup on. I will follow it through to make sure my cons tuency enjoys that. Some of the developments, the school I men oned, roads, more schools to be built so those chil-
dren that are unable to go to school would be able to do so. If you look at our governorship candidate, Dr. Najeem Salaam (Iwaloye), some of the things he had put together in his manifesto is to have free educa on. This is one of the things I would follow through to make sure it happens. He has said he would do it and we must support him to do it.
Also, he men oned that the people of Osun will enjoy free health services. They will go to hospitals without paying. He also men oned that anybody above the age of 70 will benefit from the free health care service. We will support him in achieving these. Some of the things that our father and leader, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola did for students during his administra on were that they will be in school and enjoy a free meal, we will bring it back. Those are the kind of things I will follow through. He even menoned about the People Living With Disabilies that they will get s pends every month. Our people will enjoy and feel that they have a senator that has gone round and knows how things are being done.
Is this your first me in poli cs and why the choice of ADC as your choice of poli cal party?
This is not my first me in poli cs. I was the Labour Party governorship candidate in 2018 in Osun. Though, I didn’t win. But I started my polics in 1999. And why ADC?. When you look at the ideology of the party which aligns with my own ideology and the kind of people in ADC there is no way you wouldn’t want to join them. They call them Omoluabi. They’re not there to fight or to cause violence. They’re there to take care of the common man. That is enough for me. They believe that the common man shouldn’t suffer and enjoy basic ameni es.
What’s your advice for the people of Osun?
My advice for the people of Osun is when they come out on August 15 to vote, they should vote right and not fight. They should not sell their vote by vo ng for the right person and I believe that my candidate, Dr. Najeem Salaam Iwaloye is the right candidate and I can tell you that he is well read, he is doctor and a very peaceful and calm person and he knows what he is doing. All what he has put together in his manifesto, I know he will do them because he is a trusted person and he had done it before when he was a speaker. Everybody has been singing praises of him. I think Osun people need someone like that to take them to the promised land and I know we will get there.
FRIDAY, JUNE 19, 2026 VOL. 21 NO 47 www.osundefender.com, email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com
FEW days ago, the 23rd quadrennial World Cup finals got underway. Fortyeight countries are vying in a monthlong football compe on to become the next winners of the World Cup and football champions of the world. The history of the World Cup dates back to the year 1930. In that year Frenchman Jules Rimet who had been FIFA’s President from 1921 introduced the tournament called the World Cup finals.
The first football compe on among na ons of the world therefore, came up in Uruguay in South America in 1930. Thirteen countries managed to assemble in Montevideo the capital, for the inaugural World Cup.
It was during the Great Depression years and so many European na ons found it difficult to travel down to that South American country to par cipate in the inaugural edi on. The 13 na ons that assembled for the first ever World Cup were Argen na, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay – all from South America. Belgium, France, Romania and Yugoslavia came from Europe, while Mexico and the United States were from North America.
The tournament did not require any qualifica on process or procedure. Every country that was affiliated to FIFA by the late 1920s was invited to par cipate. But as pointed out, only 13 managed to get to Uruguay for the inaugural championship. By the 2nd World Cup finals which Italy hosted, a qualifica on stage had been introduced by FIFA. 32 na ons entered for the compe on.
In the end 16 par cipated in the 2nd World Cup finals. Italy hosted and won. It also won the third World Cup in 1938. France hosted that year’s tournament. After those three World Cup finals the 2nd World War prevented it from being hosted in 1942 and 1946 when the quadrennial Championships resumed in 1950 in Brazil, the host country lost 1-2 to Uruguay in the final match. Thus by 1950 Italy and Uruguay each became two me champions of football in the World.
The Jules Rimet Cup at stake was abinio, supposed to be won for keeps by any na on that won it three mes. With Uruguay and Italy having each won the trophy two mes in the past, the two appeared set to win it for keeps within the first 24 years of the inaugura on of the World Cup finals. However, West Germany, Brazil and England frustrated Italy and Uruguay’s wish to win the cup for keeps.
West Germany won the 5th edi on after World Cup finals held in Switzerland in 1954. Brazil was to wehn in a back-to-back manner the 1958 edi on held in Sweden and also the 1962 tournament held in Chile.
England hosted and won the 1966 World Cup. The Championship was already 40 years old when in June, 1970 Mexico hosted it. By then three countries had each won the Jules Rimet Trophy two mes. They were Uruguay, Italy and Brazil.
“Nigeria never qualified for the World Cup finals until 1994. Somehow the trio played their best football from 1975 to 1985 These footballers played in an era where football had not gone professional in Nigeria. The Nigerian quintet of footballers could have come out as great stars the world would have respected a great lot if they had had the opportunity of playing at the biggest stage of world football”
BY SMOLETTE ADETOYESE SHITTU-ALAMU
The World Cup & Stars Who Never Got There
Therefore, when Brazil and Italy got set to play the final match of the 9th World Cup tournament in 1970 it was crystal clear that the trophy was ready to be won for good. Brazil under the inspira onal and commanding presence as well as the football skills of one man called Edson Arantes do Nascimento but simply Pele in football, stormed the Estadio Azteca venue of the final match in Mexico City.
In that game of football they humbled Italy by four goals to one in that ba le of the giants. An era in the World Cup finals had closed with the winning of the Jules Rimet Cup for keeps by Brazil. FIFA had to introduce a brand new trophy for the 1974 tournament which West Germany hosted and won. It was the 10th edi on of the compe on. This me the cup was no longer meant to be won for keeps but be defended every four years.
When the on-going World Cup took off in Mexico last Thursday the 11th of June 2026, the 23rd edi on of the quadrennial championships had started.
Football fans will enjoy the football fesval for the next one month. The on-going tournament is being hosted by the three neighbouring countries that cons tute the en re North American land mass, namely Canada, the United States and Mexico. Mexico City opened the stage for this year’s tournament. New York in the United States will close it on the 19th of July.
Well, our focus in this write-up is to bring out some of the great footballers the world has produced but who for one reason or the other never played in the World Cup finals. The first of these great football stars who never saw ac on at the World Cup was Alfredo di Stefano. He was an Argen ne footballer who in life played for three different na ons, namely Argen na, Colombia and Spain. In 1950 his home country Argenna qualified for the World Cup which Brazil was to host.
Argen na later withdrew from that year’s tournament because of a disagreement with Brazil’s Football authori es and Stephano could not play in that year’s world cup. For the 1954 finals in Switzerland, Alfredo chose to play for Colombia but FIFA denied him and said he was ineligible. Alfredo di Stephano moved to Spain and became an instant success. He became a Spanish ci zen quite alright winning five European cup with Real Madrid. For the 1962 World Cup in Chile, injury sidelined him from playing for Spain. That was how the world could not see him at any World Cup finals. That was the Alfredo di Stephano story.
George Best of Manchester United and
Northern Ireland was one of the extremely gi ed footballers in history. He was a Man-U legend. George Best was a football icon in the 1960s and 70s.
But his country, Northern Ireland never qualified for the World Cup in the 60s and 70s. By the me Northern Ireland qualified for Espana ’82 which Spain hosted, Best was already 36 years old and had passed his prime.
The World Cup finals had lost him for good. Ryan Giggs was from Wales. He played football in England and became a Man-U icon. He is one of the most decorated footballers in history. Giggs won 13 Premier League tles. He remained a superstar at club level, was an interna onal footballer for 24 years but his country never qualified for the World Cup and so Giggs never played at that level.
Another Welsh football star who became a Liverpool legend is Ian Rush. He was a most prolific goal scorer of all mes. Somehow, Wales never qualified for the World Cup finals in his ac ve playing days. The World Cup finals lose his football character and enthusiasm.
Eric Cantona was a French and English footballer who had it so great during his ac ve playing days. His country could not qualify for Italia 90 and USA 94. Cantona was an “infant terrible of French football.” He fell out of favour with the French football authori es when his country hosted the World Cup in 1998 and denied himself of showcasing his skills at the highest level of football.
Valen no Mazzola was an Italian football icon, an extremely crea ve mid-fielder. He won four Italian league trophies with Torino in the 1940s. Italy qualified for the 1950 World Cup finals in Brazil. But the unfortunate happened. What was this? Valen no and his team mates lost their lives in a plane crash when returning from a football match in Lisbon, Portugal. The great mid-field generalissimo lost out of the 1950 World Cup.
Alberto Spencer was an Ecuadorian striker known as the “Magic Head”. Nigeria had his equivalent in Mu u Adepoju who all called “Headmaster.”He represented Ecuador and Uruguay in interna onal matches but never played at the World Cup. Spencer was a three me winner of the Copa Libertadores in South America.
Sjaak Swart played for Holland and won three European Cup and eight Dutch League tles with Ajax. He represented Holland 31 mes but never was at the World Cup.
Jari Litmanen comes out as Finland’s greatest footballer. He was ac ve from
1986 l 2008. He won the Champions League with Ajax in 1995, played for Barcelona and Liverpool. Finland did not qualify for World Cup finals during Jari’s peak as a football icon.
Another star the World Cup loss his skills is George Opone Weah. He is the only African footballer who ever won the Ballon d’Or. He did so in 1995.
The future President of Liberia had a wonderful club career with AC Milan, PSG and Monaco. During his ac ve days that spanned over 15 years. Weah never played at the World Cup because his country never qualified for the big stage. When Liberia qualified for AFCON, Weah had to foot the en re campaign bills of the team. No wonder he became president of his country and the people con nue to love him even a er he le office as president.
Other African Stars who never got to the World Cup included Kalusa Bwalya of Zambia. At the Olympic Games in Seoul in 1988, Kalusa led his team to beat Italy 4-0.
Ghana’s goal keeper Robert Mensah never went to the World Cup because his country never qualified for the World Cup in the 1970s. He reigned as one of Africa’s best goal keepers in the 1970s. Osei Kofi was a dominant dribbler and goal poacher for Ghan Black Stars in the 1960’s. He was nicknamed “George Best of Africa” because he played about the same me George Best did in English football and in the same posi on.
Next is Abedi (Pele) Ayew one of the greatest all me African footballers. He wore the No10 jersey for the Black Stars. Abedi played for several European clubs before like Lille Lyon and Olympic Marseille in the 80’s and early 1990’s. He won the Champions League in 1993 with Olympic Marseille.
Nigeria had its own share of top football stars who never went to the World Cup. The first of them was Inua Lawal Rigogo. He was the great goal keeper for Sta onary Store of Lagos and the Green Eagles of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Rigogo was a Rubber man in goal.
Another Nigerian goal keeper who never went to the World Cup is Emmanuel Okala. He was a “Man Mountain” in goal for Nigeria for some several years. These two goal keepers could have performed greatly at World Cup finals if their country was not only an up-and-coming football na on in their me.
We can also talk ot late Chairman Chrisan Chukwu and late Mudasiru Babatunde Lawal and the Mathema cal Segun Odegbami. Each of them captained the Green Eagles at a me but never went to the World Cup inspite of their individual skills and brilliance. Reason?
Nigeria never qualified for the World Cup finals un l 1994. Somehow the trio played their best football from 1975 to 1985 These footballers played in an era where football had not gone professional in Nigeria . The Nigerian quintet of footballers could have come out as great stars the world would have respected a great lot if they had had the opportunity of playing at the biggest stage of world football. There are a great number of footballers the world over who never got to the world cup finals.It wasn’t their fault. Only that Des ny did not design them to be there. Certainly between now and 19th July, there is so much enthusiasm to come from all the playing centres across the length and breath of the North American con nent where football vibes have started to showcase themselves very progressively.
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
