Osun Defender Newspaper Online Version of May 08, 2026

FRIDAY, MAY 08, 2026

VOL 21 NO 36

Oyetola’s Ambition Allegedly Tears Osun APC Apart P2

Fountain University Osun Government 2027: Araaj Threatens P2 APC Over Osun Gets NUC Full Dismisses OYIGG Central Senatorial Accreditation For All Ticket P6 Academic Programmes Petition P4

Land Dispute: How Osun Govt ‘Negligence’ Reignited Egbedi’s Attacks On Iloba Community P5 Owamiran Of Esaoke Is Dead P 4

FRIDAY, MAY 08, 2026

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News

Oyetola’s Ambition Allegedly Tears Osun APC Apart Michael Bamigbola HE ambi on of Mr Femi Oyetola, son of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola to contest the Osun central senatorial elec on is already causing rumpus within the All Progressives Congress (APC)in Osun State.

Femi Oyetola had recently declared his inten on to contest the senatorial elecon under the platform of the APC. This is even as the ambi on of the younger Oyetola is gradually gathering momentum as a group of his friends had reportedly obtained his nominaon form for him.

The form, which was reportedly obtained for Femi Oyetola by his friends was recently presented to him and the development has raised dust within the party as some members of the party believe that Oyetola’s ambi on may affect the chances of other contestants.

Others who had obtained the senatorial nomina on form of the APC in Osun central senatorial district include the serving senator represen ng the district, Chief Fabiyi Ajagunla and former Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon Akintunde Adegboye.

Ajagunla who was elected as Senator represen ng Osun central senatorial district in 2023 recently defected to the APC and he had signified his intenon to contest for a second term under the party.

It was speculated that Ajagunla was assured of a second term cket before he defected to the APC, just as it was rumoured that he had met with the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola and discussed his ambion with him.

However, the ambi on of the son of Oyetola to contest the senatorial elec on may have

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disrupted any arrangement between Oyetola and Ajagunla.

In another development, a poli cal group led by prominent businessman and philanthropist, Engr Kehinde Raji is championing the presenta on of an Osogbo indigene as senatorial candidate in the 2027 general elec on.

Raji, popularly called Araaj said in a Facebook page that it’s the turn of Osogbo to present senatorial candidate and assured that he would mobilize support for any indigene of the town presented as senatorial candidate.

•ACG Hammed Abodunrin flanked by his wife, Special Adviser to Gov Ademola Adeleke on Security Barr Samuel Ojo and Service Chiefs at his book launch during his retirement ceremony organised by Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Osun State Command, recently

Osun 2026: Adeleke’s COS In Talk With Aggrieved APC Members - Olajengbesi Yusuf Oketola

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HE Spokesperson of Imole Campaign Council, Mr Pelumi Olajengbesi has hinted that Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye, the Chief of Staff to Governor Ademola Adeleke is working relessly to win the heart of the aggrieved members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to support the Accord Party in the 2026 governorship elec on in the state.

Olajengbesi who was reac ng to the purported arrest of Alhaji Akinleye by the APC in a post on his verified Facebook handle, said the party is threatened by the mobilisa on capacity of Akinleye.

He alleged that the Osun APC has resorted to blackmail and unintelligent lies as the only hope to win the August 15 elecon.

The campaign spokesperson disclosed that Alhaji Akinleye is constantly in touch with members who have already made up their minds to remain in the party but mobilize and vote against the party because of the impunity within it.

He wrote: “I have said it before that Osun APC are jesters.

Now, they have added content crea on to their work. APC has completely lost hope of winning any elec-

on in Osun State, and they have now resorted to blackmail and unintelligent lies.

“Because you are threatened by the hard work and mobiliza on capabili es of the Chief of Staff, Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye, you are spreading rumours about him being arrested. Arrested by who for what? A

man who is humble, decent, godly, courageous and of the greatest I have seen, selfless.

“Let me give you the secret. The Chief of Staff to Governor Ademola Adeleke was s ll busy mee ng angry and disappointed APC members ll midnight yesterday, parcularly those who

are upset because PDP decampees in the APC are insis ng that there must be no primaries, thereby pu ng their ambi ons across the state at risk.

“He is constantly in touch with APC members who have already made up their minds to remain in the APC but mobilize and vote against the party be-

cause of the impunity within it.

“Let us be honest, the Chief of Staff is the number one problem Osun APC has, because he is one of the finest poli cian in Osun State today.

“Please tell them it is too early to cry, you will have more opportuni es to cry and cry and cry.”

Fountain University Gets NUC Full Accreditation For All Academic Programmes Michael Bamigbola

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HE Fountain University, Osogbo, has secured full accredita on for all its academic programmes from the Na onal Universi es Commission (NUC).

The development has further reaffirmed the university’s posion as a fast-rising centre of academic excellence in Nigeria.

In a statement released by the university, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Pro Olayinka Ramota Karim, announced that the University recently received full accredita on for 18 addi onal programmes in the 2025/2026 academic session.

With this development, the Vice Chancellor said the total number of fully accredited programmes at the ins tu on is now over 39, with several also enjoying relevant professional recogni ons.

Describing the achievement as a product of deliberate effort and ins tuonal commitment, Prof. Karim expressed profound gra tude to Almighty Allah and commended the collec ve contribu ons of facul es, students, governing council and stakeholders.

She said “This remarkable milestone is not accidental. It reflects our unwavering commitment to academic excellence, quality assurance, and

global best prac ces in teaching, research, and community service.”

The Vice-Chancellor emphasized that the accomplishment reinforced Fountain University’s promise to deliver globally compe ve and industry-relevant educa on while maintaining strong moral and spiritual founda ons.

“At Fountain University, we go beyond academics. We nurture minds, build character, and shape

future leaders,” she added, assuring parents and guardians of the ins tu on’s connued dedica on to high standards.

With this landmark achievement, the Vice Chancellor said the university has reaffirmed its strategic priori es, including sustaining and surpassing academic benchmarks, strengthening professional partnerships and promo ng innova ondriven learning.

The University also extended an open invita on to prospec ve students, partners and the global academic community to be part of its growth journey.

Fountain University, Osogbo, con nues to dis nguish itself as a hub where quality educa on meets character development, preparing graduates not only for employment but also for impac ul leadership in society.

PEOPLE FIRST

FRIDAY, MAY 08, 2026

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HE President of Nigeria assuming the role of Chief foreign policy strategist is off again on a two week tour outside of our shores.

The Republic of France once again takes center stage in this latest foray. The irony is not lost, we may care to recall that in the build up to tumultuous events in France the then reigning Bourbon dynasty were o en on their travels “as a shield against daun ng realies.

France is today in a precarious posi on with its former West Africa colonies which makes bea fica on from Nigeria very attrac ve.

“France is today in a precarious position with its former West Africa colonies which makes beatification from Nigeria very attractive. What The President Is Off Again! Nigeria is going to gain from this incursion requites scrutiny and a cost benefit analysis will be in order”

As of now Nigeria opera ng from a weak •Charles de gaulle airport Paris is now a familiar economic pla orm sight for Nigerians watching the news does not have a disny and a cost benefit cernable foreign policy What Nigeria is going to gain from this in- analysis will be in or- strategy, this is interwoven with the weak cursion requites scru- der. moral posi on of an increasingly authori“The programme must be tarian state.

HINGS are The dilemma is expresented in succinct form ampliefi moving ed by the inadreminiscent of the profast on the equacy of the response gramme of the Unity Party poli cal front. to the xenophobic atof Nigeria which was However, the tacks on Nigerians in key ingredient is codified into four cardinal South Africa, a tepid s ll lost in tranprinciples which induced response came two sit as in where is mass appeal and acceptance” weeks a er a string rethe best. gramme of the Unity Party sponse from Ghana.

With the reof Nigeria which was codiNigeria has strong public no longer fied into four cardinal prin- economic levers to use at ease either at ciples which induced mass against South Africa, home or abroad a appeal and acceptance. the ques on is why is convincing alterSame thing goes for MKO this not been put into na ve prospecAbiola’s “Farewell To Pov- play? tus is needed erty”. The alterna ve must Nigeria can only to ignite op be presented as an appeal have a coherent and mism in a hard to self-preserva on. effec ve policy when pressed people it is anchored disenchanted OSUN DEFENDER on produc ve with the reality Publisher – Moremi Publishing economy at of three years •For Change to happen, the mesHouse Ltd. – Michael Bamigbola home accomof renewed de- sage must match the medium. Deputy Editor – Yusuf Oketola spair which has The manifesto on labour Party Asst. News Editor panied by the – Shola Aderinto been exposed as UK is still the goal standard for Deputy Photo Editor moral authora flight from re- a political party’s manifesto, it Deputy Graphics Manager – Zainab Olalere ity which will Produc on Controller – Petkola Taiwo Ibitowa led to an unexpected and still asality. tonishing landslide which is still OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing come out of A much need- unbelievable je soning the House Limited, Behind Oranmiyan Building, Gbodofon, ed alterna ve current debiliOff Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State. perspective by transi ng subsistence ISSN ta ng ren er : 0794-8050 must focus on a drive to farmers into commercial Telephone : 0809-301-9152 and strengthend poverty, concentrate farming.

Website : www.osundefender.com/index.php ening a demon job crea on, how to upThe programme must be e-mail : osundefenderhq@gmail.com ocra c frame osundefenderbank@gmail.com scale the informal sector presented in succinct form work. and modernize agriculture reminiscent of the pro- All correspondence to the above email addresses.

Where Is The Programme?

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FRIDAY, MAY 08, 2026

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News

2027: Araaj Threatens APC Over Osun Central Senatorial Ticket Yusuf Oketola

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HE Chief Execuve Officer of Aaraj Group, Engr. Raji Kehinde has insisted that the All Progressives Congress (APC) must zone the

Osun Central Senatorial cket to Osogbo.

According to Raji, zoning the cket to the state capital is the only condi on for his group to support the APC in the coming

elec ons.

Aaraj gave the term while reac ng to the senatorial ambi on of Femi Oyetola, son of former governor Adegboyega Oyetola in a Facebook post on

Tuesday.

He wrote: “OSOGBO LONI SENATOR,any party that wants our support@KEJEBU must respect our terms.

“I was too busy

with Baba Alawe’s funeral party yesterday so I wasn’t aware of the rumour about the alleged senatorial ambi on of my very good brother Femi Oyetola; i was told this morning his friends bought him a form to contest.

“Infact he was not aware, this shows he is equally qualified and must have done a lot for his friends that put resources together, I honestly salute their courage.

“However, considering the present

poli cal climate, the ming might not be right, Osogbo I know should be accorded this for many reasons we are all aware of, Femi is s ll very young and his father has built a great future and legacies ahead that will favour him be er in the nearest future.

“God will connue to direct and grant the leadership of the affected party the wisdom to se le this issues and others for there progress(Amen).

Osun, Ekiti Set To Host 2026 Ogedengbe Fiesta Yusuf Oketola

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•Former First Lady of Osun State, Alhaja Sherifat Aregbesola, (2nd right), with other former Southern Governors’ wives at the conferment of chieftaincy title of Yeye Moremi Oodua on Chief Mrs. Olufunso Amosun, former First Lady of Ogun State by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, at his palace in Ile-Ife

Owamiran Of Esaoke Is Dead

Michael Bamigbola

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HE Ijesa Community Development Assembly, ICDA, has announced the death of the Owamiran of Esa-Oke, Oba Adeyemi Akanbi Adediran.

In a statement issued by Asiwaju of Ijesaland, Olayinka Fasuyi on Wednesday and obtained dby DAILY POST, the assembly, while describing the development as a moment of deep sorrow, added that the monarch “took his final bow and joined his ancestors” earlier on May 6, 2026.

The ICDA noted that the late tradional ruler served as a custodian of culture and a unifying figure within Esa-Oke and the wider Ijesaland.

It stated that his reign was characterised by dignity, wisdom, and commitment to peace, unity and development across his domain.

According to the statement, Oba Adediran was “a monarch of quiet strength and though ul leadership who upheld the responsibili es of

his office with honour.”

The assembly added that he ensured the preserva on and promo on of the cultural heritage of EsaOke throughout his me on the throne.

It stated that “the monarch provided stability during periods of uncertainty and played a reassuring role in mes of communal challenges.”

•Late Oba Adeyemi

The ICDA said beyond tradi onal leadership, “the late king supported ini a ves aimed at advancing educa on, social harmony and community development.”

Describing him as a father figure, the statement said “his leadership fostered unity and strengthened communal es among the people of Esa-Oke.”

The assembly added that his contribuons extended beyond his immediate domain to the broader development of Ijesaland.

It also extends condolences to the royal family, the people of Esa-Oke, the Obokun Local Government Tradi onal Rulers Council, and the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup.

SUN and Eki States are ready to host the annual Ogedengbe Fes val, OSUN DEFENDER reports.

The three-day heritage and cultural fiesta is being organised in honour of the legendary Yoruba war hero, strategist and statesman, Ogedengbe Agbogungboro, who lived between 1822 and 1910.

The event is scheduled to hold from 29th July to 31st July, 2026, in Atorin, Atakumosa East Local Government Area, Osun State, Imesi-Ile, Okemesi -Eki , Eki State and Ilesa, Osun State.

The fes val Director of 2026 Ogedengbe Annual Fiesta, Mr Femi Alufa made this known in a statement issued on Wednesday.

According to him, the fes val would bring together tradi onal rulers, top government officials, scholars, cultural enthusiasts, historians, and personali es from across Nigeria and beyond.

He said those who were expedited to witness the event would gather to celebrate the enduring legacy of one of the most celebrated figures of the then Eki -Parapo (Kiriji) War and the Yoruba peace se lement era.

The fiesta, themed: “Ogedengbe Agbogungboro Legacy: Leadership, Security, and Statecra for Modern Governance in Nigeria”, he said, was designed to preserve Yoruba historical memory, promote cultural tourism, and connect

indigenous leadership values with contemporary governance and na on-building.

Alufa explained that the opening-day acvi es would focus on paying homage to the ancestral homeland of Ogedengbe Agbogungboro.

“The event will also feature tradi onal rites, cultural recep ons, heritage storytelling, and historical reflec ons on the warrior’s origin, iden ty, and early life.

“Community leaders, historians, and cultural custodians are expected to lead conversa ons aimed at deepening public understanding of Yoruba heritage and historical con nuity.

“The second day will feature a guided heritage excursion to the historic Kiriji War Memorial Peace Treaty Site in Imesi-Ile, Osun State.

“Besides, guests will visit notable historical landmarks, including: Ogedengbe Cave Bunker, Imesi -Ile, Ibu Latoosa Historical Site, Imesi -Ile, Yoruba Peace Treaty Grove, Imesi-Ile, and Afe Babalola Gardens, Okemesi-Eki , among others”, he said.

Con nuing, Alufa said the grand finale would feature the Ogedengbe Legacy Awards and Hall of Fame Inves ture, where dis nguished individuals would be honoured for excellence in leadership, culture, public service, and contribuons to society.

“A major highlight of the event will be the dis nguished personality lecture, in honour of legal icon and elder statesman, Afe Babalola (SAN)”, he said.

FRIDAY, MAY 08, 2026

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Feature

Land Dispute: How Osun Govt ‘Negligence’ Reignited Egbedi’s Attacks On Iloba Community •As Many Injured, Properties Damaged •Police Accused Of Complicity • Efforts Ongoing To Unite The Communities - Govt Yusuf Oketola

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HERE seems to be no end in sight to the ongoing land dispute between Egbedi and Iloba towns in Egbedore Local Government Area as a acks con nue in both communi es.

OSUN DEFENDER reports that the ongoing clashes between the two communi es has persisted in the last six years over alleged land encroachment by the Elegbedi of Egbedi, Oba Muideen Azeez Olaniyi leading to loss of lives and proper es worth millions of naira.

Hence, residents of Iloba have con nued to blame Oba Olaniyi popularly known as Asemalu for masterminding the unabated a acks on their community.

They accused Elegbedi of using armed thugs to force them out of their lands, damaging proper es and destroying economic trees.

Recall that the monarch and four other persons were in 2024 remanded in the Ile-Ife Custodial Centre for alleged arson and malicious damage of a farm in Iloba town.

Akibu Abioye, Yisa Akolapo, Rasidi Ayandiran and Sarafadeen Abioye were the other defendants remanded alongside the monarch by an Osun State High Court, si ng in Ede. Residents of Iloba and Olasape had on August 28, 2025 staged besieged the Government Secretariats, Abere in protest against the a ack.

Addressing the residents of Iloba and Olosape towns during the protest, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Civil Society Engagement, Comrade Ebenezer Ige promised the swi interven on of the state government, adding that their grievances have been noted.

“Governor Ademola Adeleke is a peace-loving man. All your grievances have been noted and will be reported to him appropriately. He will take swi ac on on the matter,” Ige assured.

However, OSUN DEFENDER gathered that the government is yet to take any ac on regarding their plights.

Recently, Oba Olaniyi

allegedly led some thugs to the Iloba community to destroy economic trees and chased away residents who were trying to rebuild their houses a er the 2024 arson allegedly carried out by the monarch.

The incident occurred on April 27, 2026.

OSUN DEFENDER learnt that police officers on Monday May 4, 2026, stormed the community to make arrest of suspects in respect of a pe on forwarded to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) Zone 11, Osogbo by residents of Iloba on the persistent a acks on their town by the Egbedi community.

Five suspects were arrested in the process including the wife of Elegbedi, Bukola Afolabi.

Others are Yisa Adeshina, Adebayo Kazeem, Taofeek Ajibola and Rasheed Ajani.

They were arraigned before an Osun State Magistrates’ Court, sitng in Osogbo on Tuesday on a fourteen-count charge bordering on conspiracy, a empted murder, forcible entry, assault and possession of dangerous weapons.

But they were released on bail by the presiding Magistrate, Dr. Olusegun Ayilara in the sum of N5,000,000 and one surety each.

OSUN DEFENDER gathered that two persons were again a acked in Iloba a er police le the community by sus-

•Residents of Iloba protesting against the alleged attack on their community by the people of Egbedi on Wednesday pected thugs from Egbedi. The vic ms are, Azeez Yusuf and Rasheedat Yusuf. They sustained degrees of injuries while their home was also vandalised.

The vic ms are currently receiving treatment at a private hospital in Ede. Narra ng their ordeal during a visit to the hospital by OSUN DEFENDER, the couple stated that they were attacked inside their house at Olosape via Iloba at around 2pm by residents of Egbedi.

“When the crisis began, we started scampering for safety. Suddenly, I saw about 20 people approaching my house.

They mobbed my wife and I. It took the interven on of the police and opera ves of the Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS) to rescue us,” the

couple stated.

Speaking with OSUN DEFENDER during a protest on Wednesday, a community leader in Iloba, Imam Muslimdeen Sodiq, accused Oba Azeez of fuelling the ongoing crisis in the area.

Imam Sodiq alleged that the monarch has been doing everything possible to forcibly take over their land by causing havoc and sponsoring harm thugs to displace them from their homes.

He also accused the police of complicity.

“The Elegbedi of Egbedi, Oba Muideen Azeez popularly known as Asemalu has been vic mising us in the Iloba community for the last six years. He has been forcing us out of our homes by using harm thugs to chase us out of our land.

“We can no longer come to this me with-

out the aid of security agencies over the fear of a ack. Our women and children have become refugees in neighbouring towns. The Elegbedi destroyed everything we have.

“Property worth millions of naira has been destroyed while many of our people are s ll missing. The government has turned deaf ears to our plights. We have sent a series of pe ons to the police both at the state command and Zone 11 but the crisis s ll persists,” he stated.

During the protest, women and children, armed with placards with different inscripons called on Governor Ademola Adeleke and security agencies to wade into the crisis to prevent a full-blown a ack.

They maintained that they can no longer sleep in the community with

•Victims of the recent attack, Mr. Azeez Yusuf and Mrs. Rasheedat Yusuf at the hospital

their two eyes closed, no ng that some of their people are s ll missing.

Meanwhile, efforts to speak to Oba Olaniyi have not yielded success as at the me of this report.

But the Special Adviser to Governor Adeleke on Security, Mr Samuel Ojo, said the state government is doing everything possible to unite the two communi es.

Ojo stated this in a telephone conversa on with OSUN DEFENDER on Wednesday.

He said: “The government is looking into the ma er at the moment.

Though, we don’t know what the genesis of the crisis was un l the matter aggravated when we learnt the police had arrested some people in the area. However, the government will not fold its arms and let some people disrupt the peace of the state. We are doing everything possible to unite the warring communi es so they can con nue to live in peace.”

Also, the The Osun Police Public Rela ons Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi told OSUN DEFENDER that the Deputy Commissioner of Police has directed the DPO in charge of Ido-Osun to maintain peace in the areas.

“The Deputy Commissioner of Police has directed the DPO of Ido-Osun that he should make sure there is no breakdown of law and order in the area,” Ojelabi stated.

OSUN DEFENDER gathered that the crisis con nues un l yesterday’s a ernoon as many residents of Iloba reportedly were a acked and injured by thugs from Egbedi.

FRIDAY, MAY 08, 2026

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Court Orders OAU to Restore Graduate’s Degree Classification, Awards N5m Damages Campus Ibrahim Abdullahi

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USTICE Adefunmilola Demi-Ajayi of the Federal High Court, Osogbo has ordered the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife to correct the degree classificaon of a graduate, Shekoni Jemima Oluwagbemisola, a er ruling that the ins tu on unlawfully downgraded her academic result.

In a judgment delivered in Suit No. FHC/ OS/CS/107/2025, the court held that the university violated the plain ff ’s fundamental rights by changing her classifica on from “Pass with Credit” to “Pass” without lawful jus fica on.

Consequently, the court awarded ₦5 million in damages against the university, alongside ₦800,000 as the cost of li ga on.

Oluwagbemisola, a Physiotherapy graduate who obtained a Bachelor of Medical Rehabilita on (B.MR) in 2023, had approached the court to challenge what she described as an arbitrary alteraon of her academic record.

The suit, filed through her counsel, Princewill Okoroafor of P. O. Okoroafor & Co stated that the university ini ally confirmed her result as “Pass with Credit” in a Statement of Result dated November 23, 2023.

The same classificaon was also reflected during the ins tu on’s 47th Convoca on ceremony in December 2023, where she was listed in the official convoca on brochure with the grade.

However, the dispute arose when she applied for her original cer ficate and discovered that her classificaon had been changed to “Pass.” A er efforts to resolve the discrepancy internally failed, she sought legal redress.

Delivering judgment, Jus ce DemiAjayi described the university’s ac on as “arbitrary and reckless,” no ng that it failed to follow acceptable academic standards and due process before altering the result.

The court further faulted the ins tu on

for not publishing the plain ff ’s final year results and for neglec ng

to properly inves gate the alleged error.

The judge held that

the unlawful change caused the plain ff significant hardship, sta ng that the ac on must have led to “great inconvenience” and disrup on to her academic and professional pursuits. The court also acknowledged evidence that she had already relied on the earlier result for postgraduate applica ons.

In addi on, the court noted that the university’s conduct subjected the plain ff to emoonal and psychological stress, adding that such

Review

disregard for due process jus fied the award of exemplary damages.

Jus ce Demi-Ajayi cited the appellate decision in Okafor & Anor v AIG Police Zone II Onikan & Ors (2019) to support the posi on that abuse of rights warrants compensaon.

The court therefore

ordered the university to issue a corrected degree cer ficate reflecting the original “Pass with Credit” classificaon, in line with its earlier official records and the approval of its Senate dated November 20, 2023.

All reliefs sought by the plain ff were granted.

•Wife of Osun State Deputy Governor, Deaconess Olusola Adewusi, addressing participants during a panel session alongside CEO Abebi Foods, Mrs Adebisi Ganiyat Olatunde, CEO Moulding Technologies Limited Mrs Abimbola Akinkugbe and Mrs Adenike Daramola at the Exceptional Ladies Conference tagged: Contribute, Collaborate and Lead, held at WOCDIF Events Centre, Osogbo, recently

News Osun Government Dismisses OYIGG Petition As Baseless AndAccording Malicious false, defamatory, and and reckless innuendo.” ernor, Kazeem Akinleye, to the Ibrahim Abdullahi

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SUN State government has rejected a pe on allegedly submi ed by a group known as the Osun Youths Ini a ve for Good Governance, describing its claims as

poli cally mo vated.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the government expressed “u er dismay” over what it called a “laughable and hollow” document filled with “falsehoods, conjecture,

The pe on reportedly accused top officials of mul -billion naira fraud, financial mismanagement, and diversion of public funds.

The government specifically cleared the Chief of Staff to the Gov-

and the AccountantGeneral, Rasheed Olalere Alabi of any wrongdoing.

It described the allega ons against them as “spurious, unfounded and en rely lacking in legal or factual basis.”

Ajanaku Seeks Support Of Accord Party Leaders In Ilesa East Michael Bamigbola

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leading contestant for the House of Assembly elecon in in Ilesa East state cons tuency of Osun State, HonSunday Olubusayo Ajanaku has solicited for the support of the leaders of Accord Party in the cons tuency.

Addressing members of the party at a rally held in ward 02, Ilesa East Local Government Area of the state, the House of Assembly hopeful expressed his willingness to serve the

people of the cons tuency faithfully.

He promised to ensure quality representa-

•Ajanaku

on if given the opportunity to serve in the House of Assembly.

Besides, Hon Ajanaku sought for the support of the masses of the state for the victory of Governor Ademola Adeleke in the August 15 gorvernorship elecon in the state, urging the people to vote massively for the Governor for con nuity of the good works he is doing.

The Accord Party leader who donated the sum of #100,000 to the party in the ward, also promised the party a

modern public address system.

While urging members of the party to be faithful and committed to the course of the party, Hon Ajanaku emphasized the need for all members of the party to work together for victory of Governor Adeleke come August 15.

He enjoined the party faithful to remain resolute in the face of challenges and threat pose by members of the opposi on poli cal par es.

statement, the Chief of Staff does not control or authorize state funds, making the accusa ons against him “ridiculous and malicious.”

It also emphasized that the AccountantGeneral operates strictly within cons tu onal and financial regula ons, ensuring all government funds are properly processed and accounted for.

The government insisted that all revenues received from the federal level are handled transparently and in line with established laws, dismissing claims of illegal diversion without legisla ve approval.

While no ng that it would typically ignore such allega ons, the government said it responded to prevent the spread of misinformaon and protect public trust.

News

FRIDAY, MAY 08, 2026

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Davido Storms Osun, Rallies Okada And Marwa Riders Ahead Of Adeleke’s Re-Election Campaign Bisola Aremu IGERIAN music star David Adeleke popularly called Davido has intensified poli cal ac vi es in Osun State as he met with commercial motorcycle (okada) and tricycle (marwa) riders in a strategic grassroots outreach ahead of upcoming electoral processes.

The singer, who also serves as Chairman of the Youth Mobiliza on Commi ee for his uncle’s campaign, arrived at Imole House to engage directly with transport workers, a key vo ng bloc in the state.

The visit, which took place in Ede, drew a large number of enthusias c riders and youths who gathered to welcome the award-winning ar st. The mee ng focused on mobilizing support for Governor Ademola Adeleke as prepara ons intensify for his re-elec on bid. Observers say the outreach reflects a broader strategy to connect with grassroots stakeholders across different sectors.

Davido’s presence added a celebrity boost to the campaign, with supporters chan ng and expressing excitement over his involvement. During the interac on, he emphasized the importance of unity among young people and urged them to ac vely par cipate in the poli cal process, especially in supporting his uncle’s administra on.

The singer also attended the unveiling of the Imole Youth Campaign Mobilisaon Team in Ede, where he addressed party faithful and volunteers.

The inaugura on event marked a significant step in organizing youth-driven campaign efforts aimed at strengthening support across the state.

Speaking at the event, Davido announced that he would be pu ng his music career on hold for two months to fully concentrate on the re-elec on campaign.

According to him, the decision reflects his commitment to

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ensuring con nuity in governance under Adeleke’s leadership, which he described as people-focused.

Poli cal analysts note that Davido’s ac ve involvement could play a major role in influencing youth par cipa on and voter turnout, par cularly given his massive fan base across Nigeria.

As campaign acvi es gain momentum, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how celebrity influence shapes the dynamics of the Osun poli cal landscape.

•Former Governor of Osun State,Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola with the family members of late Prince Amuda Lawal Obelawo during his condolence visit to the family at his residence in Osogbo

Jenyo Commends Omo-Oluwa Initiative Forum Over Empowerment torial District.

Leisure Spring Hotel, governments, to regSpeaking at the Osun Osogbo on Thursday, ister their businesses Of Osun CentralJenyo Constituents with the Corporate Afhas commended Central Empowerment 30th April, 2026.

Michael Bamigbola

O

SUN State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry Rev. Bunmi

the Omo-Oluwa Ini ave Forum for priorising the welfare and wellbeing of the people of Osun Central Sena-

Programme organised by the senatorial aspirant, Mr. Olusegun Elijah Olasunkanmi, held at the Governor’s Hall,

The Commissioner also charged the over 200 empowerment beneficiaries, drawn across the ten local

Valuation Day: Osun NIESV Urges Nigerians To Patronise Only Licensed Valuers

Shola Aderinto HE Nigerian Ins tuon of Estate Surveyors and Valuers in Osun State has used this year’s Na onal Valua on Day to sensi ze the public on the cri cal role of professional valua on in na onal wealth creaon, while raising concerns over quackery, poor land records and poli cal interference.

Chairman of the branch, Olusola Jibril Adebiyi, said the May 5 naonwide celebra on was aimed at educa ng Nigerians on the difference between licensed Estate Surveyors and Valuers and unqualified prac oners popularly known as “quacks.”

According to him, “People in the past did not know much about Estate Surveyor or the knowledge possessed in guiding the public to make the right investment decisions that will maximize returns on property and assets”.

He urged Nigerians to desist from patronizing non-professionals, stressing that the ins tu on’s mo o of Honesty and Devo on is represented by its official logo.

Adebiyi also addressed the growing trend of land owners preferring estate agents over cer fied professionals.

He emphasized that only Estate Surveyors and Valuers licensed by the

T

Estate Surveyors and Valuers Registra on Board of Nigeria (ESVARBON), are legally mandated to provide valua on opinions.

The Chairman further condemned the menace of “Omonile” queueing the unlawful land claims by descendants on government-acquired land.

He called on both state and federal governments, as well as tradional rulers, to enact and enforce laws that curb the prac ce, which he said disrupts construc on and investment.

Also addressing the gathering, Dr. Omisore Olusegun, who is a Director in the Osun State Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning, highlighted four major challenges facing the profession, which include absence of a comprehensive na onal land database, warning that without reliable data, valua on reports remain

inconsistent and unreliable.

He stressed that Valua on input factors are not taken from thin air, adding that when there is no database, everyone acts in isola on”.

Dr Omisore used the medium to commend Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke on his efforts to build a state land record system while urging na onal synergy.

Also, Dr. Omisore stressed the need for stronger enforcement of professional standards under Decree 24 of 1975.

“If we are professionals, we should act like professionals and standards must be enforced,” he said.

Furthermore, he raised concerns about corrup on and poli cal interference in valua on processes, no ng that some poli cal leaders some mes dictate for-

mats that deviate from professional standards, and iden fied poor public awareness as a pressing issue, calling for increased media sensi za on so Nigerians understand the role and value of professional estate surveyors.

In a separate address, the Former State Chairman of the associa on, Adekunle Adedoye, applauded Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, for his proac ve stance against quackery, no ng that the Governor has been vocal about how unqualified agents exploit residents with inflated charges and advised the public not to patronize “quacks who call themselves agents.”

“As professionals, we owe it to this na on to uphold integrity, protect public interest, and ensure that every property and asset is valued with accuracy and accountability. This day is not just a celebration, it is a reminder of our duty to the people and to the future of our economy,” he said

fairs Commission (CAC), form a coopera ve society and maintain me culous records to track income, expenses and growth.

According to the Commissioner, “OmoOluwa Ini a ve Forum deserves commendaon. By priori sing barbering, agro-processing, adire, liquid soap and balm produc on - trades with low startup costs, daily demand and export poten al, you are aligning with Osun’s economic revival”.

“To our par cipants who are being empowered today, the starter packs you are receiving today are not handouts but seed capital.

The Forum has sown the seed, your role is to nurture it into abundance”.

“Register your business promptly with the CAC via One Stop Shop at the Osun Investment Promo on Agency (OSIPA). Join or form a coopera ve society for collec ve bargaining,access to loans and shared exper se”.

“Train others in your cra , crea ng a mul plier effect that turns 200 empowered individuals into 5,000 employed tomorrow”.

“Let me reassure you that Governor Adeleke’s administraon will con nue to priori se an Osun where no able person is idle, and no skill is wasted.

From Iwo to Ikire, Ejigbo to Ile-Ife, Osogbo to Ilesa, our message is the same, Imole de, okunkun parada!”, the Commissioner said.

ISSN : 0794 - 8050

Politics

FRIDAY, MAY 08, 2026 VOL. 21 NO 36 www.osundefender.com, email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com

W

ORLD Press Freedom Day is more than a ceremonial date on the global calendar; it is a reminder of the vital role journalism plays in society and the harsh reali es many journalists face.

The demand for improved welfare for journalists has become increasingly urgent as media prac oners across Nigeria con nue to face harassment, in mida on and poor working condi ons while carrying out their cons tu onal responsibili es.

Journalism remains one of the most important pillars of democracy. Through accurate repor ng, inves ga ve journalism and public accountability, journalists serve as the bridge between the government and the people.

Yet, despite their cri cal role in na on-building, many Nigerian journalists operate under difficult and unsafe condi ons that threaten both their livelihood and the survival of independent journalism.

Across the country, cases of harassment against journalists have con nued to raise concerns among media stakeholders and human rights advocates.

Reporters covering poli cal events, protests, elec ons and corrup on-related stories are frequently subjected to in mida on, unlawful arrest, assault and threats from security opera ves, poli cians and other powerful interests.

Such ac ons are clear violaons of the cons tu onal right to freedom of expression and freedom of the press guaranthrive where journalists are siteed under Nigerian law.

A democra c society cannot lenced, a acked or treated as enemies for simply carrying out “A journalist who is poor- their professional du es. harassment of journally paid and financially istsThe not only endangers media insecure may become prac oners but also weakens itself. When jourvulnerable to external democracy nalists are in midated, ci zens influence, inducement are denied access to credible on, transparency is or unethical practices. informa reduced and corrup on thrives Improving the welfare of unchecked.

Fear and insecurity in the journalists is therefore media space discouraged innot only a labour issue ves ga ve repor ng and limit ability of journalists to hold but also a necessary step the leaders accountable. toward strengthening Beyond physical harassment, welfare condi ons remain credible and responsible poor a major challenge confron ng journalism” journalists in Nigeria.

Davido Storms Osun, Rallies P 2 Okada And Marwa Riders Ahead Of Adeleke’s Re-Election Campaign

PERSPECTIVE

By Olufunmilayo Adebomi Ojo (Ph.D) Improved Welfare For Journalists Essential To Protect Press Freedom In Nigeria

Many media workers endure irregular salaries, low wages, lack of insurance coverage and poor working environments despite the demanding nature of their job. Some journalists risk their lives daily covering insecurity, disasters and poli cal unrest without adequate safety equipment or financial support.

The economic reali es facing many media organisa ons have further worsened the situa on.

Declining adver sing revenues and the growing influence of digital media have led to staff layoffs, salary delays and increased pressure on journalists to produce more content with fewer resources.

As a result, many talented

professionals are leaving the profession in search of more stable opportuni es.

Media experts have repeatedly warned that poor welfare can nega vely affect professionalism and ethical standards within the industry.

A journalist who is poorly paid and financially insecure may become vulnerable to external influence, inducement or unethical prac ces. Improving the welfare of journalists is therefore not only a labour issue but also a necessary step toward strengthening credible and responsible journalism.

Stakeholders have called on government at all levels to uphold press freedom by protecting journalists from harassment and ensuring that security agencies respect the rights of media prac oners.

A acks on journalists must be inves gated thoroughly, while perpetrators should be held accountable regardless of their status or posi on.

Media owners also have a responsibility to priori se the welfare of their employees through fair salaries, regular training, health insurance and safer working condi ons. Investment in journalists is ulmately an investment in democracy, accountability and na onal development.

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, alongside civil society organisa ons and media advocacy groups, has con nued to advocate stronger protec ons for journalists and reforms that will improve condi ons within the profession.

Ci zens, too, have a role to play by suppor ng credible journalism and defending the rights of journalists to report freely without fear or in mida on. Press freedom is not only for journalists; it is a right that benefits society as a whole by ensuring access to truth and diverse opinions.

As Nigeria con nues its democra c journey, protecting journalists and improving their welfare must remain a na onal priority.

Journalism should never become a profession defined by fear, harassment and economic hardship.

For democracy to flourish, journalists must be allowed to work freely, safely and with dignity.

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