Osun Defender Newspaper Online Version of May 15, 2026
THE African Democra c Congress (ADC) and THE WILL newspaper are to be commended for blowing the whistle on the misuse of government funds and abuse of access and privilege.
Yesterday’s lead story in a leading nigerian newspaper “ THISDAY”
Stated that, “Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested Director-General of Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN), Mustapha Abdullahi, over funds to the tune of N701 billion linked to Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), an
Front Page Comment
Commendation To African Democratic Congress And The Will
The issues they have raised goes to the heart of Nigeria’s Democratic Process and it’s endurance
associa on of All Progressives Congress (APC) governors”.
The patrio c outcry by the African Democra c Congress (ADC) and The
expose by THE WILL newspaper has created the atmosphere whereby the arrest will and no doubt more arrest to follow will not be termed as a witch-hunt.
The irony is not lost that the head of the energy commission of Nigeria is facing allega ons, which he must answer that he’s completely unconnected with his brief to be at the command center of sor ng out the dysfunc onal electricity system in a country that is starved of energy.
•Continued on Page 3
2027: Rumpus In Osun APC
Over Consensus Arrangement
Michael Bamigbola
THE alleged intenon of the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State to field its candidates for all the elec ve posions in the next year’s general elec ons is causing rumpus within the party, Osun Defender gathered.
Indica ons already emerged that the leadership of the party has concluded arrangements to field candidates for the Senate, House of Representaves and House of Assembly through consensus arrangement, a situa on which may prevent conduct of primary elec on. However, some
•Continued on Page2
FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2026
2027: Rumpus
•Continued from Page 1 stakeholders of the party are against the arrangement and may not be part of the consensus arrangement even as many had threatened to leave the party should the leadership make good its plan to go ahead with the consensus arrangement.
This is even as many of the candidates contes ng the elec ons are clamouring for direct primary elec on, a system that will give equal opportunity to all members of the party to elect the preferred candidates for the posi ons.
But findings by Osun Defender revealed that the party is determined to select all the candidates through consensus arrangement not minding the acceptability of the candidates and their popularity in the party.
It was learnt that many of the aspirants vying for different posi ons in the coming elec on within the party are already lobbying the leaders of the party to ensure their emergence since it is clear to them that the candidates will emerge through consensus arrangement.
The Minister of Ma-
In Osun APC Over Consensus Arrangement
rine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola is alleged to be at the centre of the whole issue as he’s said to be the main leader of the party who may single handedly choose the candidates for the party.
Recall that similar incident occured in the prelude to the emergence of the Deputy Governorship candidate of the party, a situa on which reportedly polarized the party in the four local government areas that make up Ife zone.
It was learnt that the leaders of the party in Ile-Ife including former Deputy Governor of the state, senator Iyiola Omisore and another former Deputy Governor, Sooko Adeleke Adewoyin were not carried along in the choice of Mr Benjamin Adere as the deputy governorship candidate.
It was alleged that Oyetola single handedly nominated Adere without consul ng the leaders of the party in the area and Ile-Ife in par cular.
This development caused serious division within the party and its outcome is yet to be resolved by the leadership of the party, despite efforts made
for reconcilia on by some prominent leaders of the party including former Governor of the state, Chief Bisi Akande.
Already, many of the aspirants in the party, it was gathered have concluded arrangements to vacate the party, should the leadership of the party, especially Oyetola handpick the candidates for the posi ons.
OSUN DEFENDER was reliably informed that similar issue is brewing in most of the
ICPC, NYSC CDS Groups Warn Nigerians Against Corrupt Acts
Ibrahim Abdullahi
THE An Corrup on Group (ACG) of the Community Development Service (CDS) in the Osun State directorate of the Na onal Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in collabora on with
Tension Erupts In Ijebu-Jesa As Student Dies In Road Accident, Police Fire Tear Gas
Oladele Israel
TENSION spread across Ijebu-Jesa in Osun State on Wednesday following a confronta on between students of Interlink Polytechnic and police opera ves a er the death of a student in a tragic road accident. The deceased, idenfied simply as Oluwaseun, was reportedly a Na onal Diploma II student in the Mass Communica on department of the ins tu on. Sources said he was returning to Ijebu-Jesa on a motorcycle when a commercial bus allegedly struck him along the Ijebu-Jesa/Esa-Oke road.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that the incident sparked outrage among students of the ins tu on as many of the students rushed to the accident scene a er learning about the development. Video footage circula ng online
showed angry students confron ng police officers while demanding that the driver of the bus involved in the crash be handed over to them.
According to a source who spoke anonymously, the atmosphere became increasingly tensed a er efforts to save the student’s life proved unsuccessful.
“The students were deeply angered by the death of their colleague and insisted that the driver should not be taken away by the police. Officers at the scene tried to calm the situa on and explained that the vehicle and driver needed to be taken to the sta on for proper inves gaon,” the source said. The situa on reportedly escalated further when some of the protes ng students allegedly a empted to set the bus ablaze. In response, police op-
era ves fired tear gas canisters into the air to disperse the crowd and prevent further violence.
The use of tear gas created panic within the area, forcing residents and passersby to flee for safety as tensions heightened around the community.
Another source disclosed that the deceased had been travelling from Ilesa before the accident occurred. Following confirma on of his death, students staged protests around parts of the town, expressing anger and grief over the incident.
When contacted, the spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the incident and stated that normalcy had since been restored through police interven on. He added that authori es were s ll working to fully establish details surrounding the de-
ceased at the me of the report.
Meanwhile, the management of Interlink College of Health Technology announced the temporary closure of the ins tu on in honour of the deceased student.
In a statement signed by Mr. L. Balogun on behalf of the Registrar, the school management said the decision was taken to allow students and staff members mourn the tragic loss.
The statement urged students to remain peaceful and prayerful during the difficult period, while announcing that academic ac vi es would resume on Tuesday, May 19, 2026.
The incident has con nued to generate reac ons within the community, with many residents calling for improved road safety measures and calm as inves ga ons into the accident con nue.
Independent Corrupt Prac ces and other related offences Commission (ICPC) have warned against corrupt acts at all levels
This is even as the groups organized quiz and debate compe on for corps members in Osogbo Local Government Area of the state.
The event held at Ataoja School of Science aimed at promo ng an -corrup on awareness, digital literacy and sustainable development among corps members.
The event brought together various CDS groups in an atmosphere of healthy intellectual engagement and teamwork.
Par cipants debated on the topic: “Is Digital Literacy a More Effec ve Shield Against Corrup on Than Tradi onal Moral Re-orienta on?”
Speakers at the event emphasized the growing importance of technology and digital awareness in tackling corrup on, no ng that digital systems help promote transparency, accountability and easy access to informa on.
Others argued that moral re-orienta on, integrity, and
ethical values remain essen al in shaping responsible ci zens and reducing corrupt prac ces in society.
The programme also featured quiz session which focused on an -corrup on, civic responsibility, sustainable development goals and na onal values.
At the end of the event, SERVICOM CDS emerged as the overall winner of the debate and quiz compe on a er a strong performance across all categories. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) CDS secured second posi on, while Educa on CDS finished in third place following a commendable ou ng.
The organizers commended all parcipa ng groups for their efforts and encouraged corps members to con nue promo ng integrity, accountability, and na onal development through ac ve community engagement.
The event further reflected the commitment of the and the toward sensi zing young Nigerians on the dangers of corrup on and the importance of building a more transparent and responsible society.
•Members of the NYSC Anti-Corruption CDS during their Public Awareness Programme held in Osogbo, on Wednesday
Local Government Areas ahead of the primary elec on for the House of Assembly.
It was learnt that many members of the party are determined to resist any a empt
by Oyetola or any leader of the party to impose any candidate on them.
•Continued from Page 1
The issues raised go to the heart of Nigeria’s malfunc oning “ semi-democracy” to use the words of the London based Economist Newspaper.
The Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) as a body is unknown to the Nigerian cons tu on. It cannot then be conceivably involved in the disbursement of government funds.
This is a cons tu onal ma er bothering on treasonable felony and must be treated as such.
It brings up the fore issues rela ng to the legimacy and as well as the acceptability of the 2027 elec ons.
With the kind of funds we are now talking about, it is clear that the elec ons will be a cash-and-carry affair as opposed to a contesta on of ideas.
In other words, it is debatable whether it will meet any minimum standard of acceptability. This is looking impossible with
•Allegations have to be answer about the purported, interwoven unconstitutional breech
the way we are going. voters apathy will connue to increase and
alarmingly will put pressure on the exchange rate Naira as foreign could be
Forward Africa? Africa Shine Your Eye Well, Well!
THIRTY one African heads of states have days in Nairobi, Kenya a ending the Africa Forward conference stage, managed by France and Kenya. Our own President was present and delivered a paper which is why the parley is of importance to Nigerians.
We use stage managed deliberately. This is because France the key actor and ini ator has to recalibrate it’s posi on in Africa having suffered devasta ng setbacks in West Africa.
In many of its former colonies France is now bad news and correctly so, France has for decades bled its former colonies dry with policies based on exploita on and a grotesquely unequal rela onship, the African countries fawning in Nairobi had be er shine their eyes well, well.
The fault lies within Africa itself, with the transi on of the na onalist poli cal movements
the con nent is now in the grip of elite complicit in the underdevelopment of the country.
Africa should focus on making its own Con nental Free Trade Agreement for that is the pathway to salva on. There should be circumspec on in nego a ng any transac on with a former colonial overload for the leopard cannot change its spot, they be er use a magnifying glass to examine the small prints.
Nigeria must focus on the grim, daun ng reality of the erosion of purchasing power parity which has led to increasing poverty.
room to drive the quest for sustainable development and sustainable development.
The electors of states such as Osun and Eki have been placed on no ce. They must reject poverty crea ng poli cal forum and vote for the new wave offering an alterna ve perspec ve and lead by those with a genuine pro people and progressive minds.
Right now funds from the centre sent to the states as alloca on as alloca on are now being converted into slush funds to finance a presiden al campaign.
“The people of this country are battling on all funds. It is now clear that the increased amount of money which should have gone to the state governments for the upliftment of their people has now been recycled for political machinations rather than for their well being”
Commendation To African Democratic Congress And The Will OSUN DEFENDER
purchased in other to have lighter and more difficult to trace currency notes to use in the poli cal process.
The people of this country are ba ling on all funds. It is now clear that the increased amount of money which should have gone to the state governments for the upli ment of their people has now been recycled for poli cal machina ons rather than for their well being.
This is why inspite of “increased alloca on” there has been no trickle down effect to ameliorate the puni ve effect of the harsh economic environment on the living standards of the people. This should be seen as akin to a crime against humanity. It also puts a break on the naive quest for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
A key element in a racting FDI is Purchasing Power Parity. The entuathasim of the poten al of the poten al of foreign investors is predicated on the crical mass of the amount of purchasing power to buy is good and services.
The country is now the poverty capital of the world and there is no space for even cauous op mism. It is be er not to live in a fool’s paradise.
Nigeria must focus on poverty reduc on and use the levers of the State to turn the war against poverty into the engine
This in the face of moun ng poverty is as evil as it can get. The voters of Osun State in parcular must shine their eyes very well.
This also negates the very reason for having democra c governance and those who champion a return to democracy must now roll up their sleeves and realize that it will be very difficult for a pro-people movement to stand up for democracy and present an enjoying much needed alterna ve posion. As it is Nigeria as of now desperately needs a convincing alterna ve to present dysfunc on and underperformance leading to increasing misery while favouring a mini school pampered elite.
Tinubu, President Marcon “what a tangled weave.....”
FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2026
Birthday: Salaam, Olasunkanmi, Others Rejoice With Gov. Adeleke
Michael Bamigbola
THE gorvernorship candidate of the African Democra c Congress (ADC), Rt Hon Najeem Folasayo Salaam has congratulated the Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke on the occasion of his birthday.
Salaam in a congratulatory message addressed to Governor Adeleke appreciated the faithfulness of God in his life and extolled the virtues of the Governor.
He also prayed to God to grant the Governor long life, good health and abundant grace.
Àlso, a senatorial aspirant of the Accord Party in Osun central senatorial district, Hon. Olusegun Elijah Olasunkanmi has felicitated with Governor Adeleke on the occasion of his 66th birthday anniversary.
Hon. Olasunkanmi described Governor Adeleke as a compassionate, visionary and people-oriented leader whose style of governance has con nued to endear him to the peo-
ple of Osun State.
He noted that the Governor has demonstrated humility, sincer-
ity, responsiveness and an uncommon commitment to the welfare and development of the state.
nor Adeleke for the good governance, infrastructural transforma on, and people-centered policies being delivered across the state.
According to him, the administra on of Governor Adeleke has restored hope, renewed confidence in government, and strengthened the belief of the people
ADC Will
in purposeful leadership.
Hon. Olasunkanmi also applauded the Governor’s dedica on to workers’ welfare, educaon, healthcare delivery, rural development and grassroots governance, describing his leadership as a shining example of compassionate and inclusive administra on.
Win Osun Guber
Poll - Salaam
Michael Bamigbola
CANDIDATE of the African Democra c Congress (ADC) in the August 15 governorship elec on in Osun State, Dr Najeem Salaam, has expressed confidence that the party will emerge victorious in the forthcoming poll.
He also assured residents of responsible and quality leadership anchored on progressive ideals if elected.
Salaam made this known while addressing party members and supporters during the Ejigbo Local Government ADC general mee ng held in
Ejigbo, Osun State.
The ADC candidate, who was accompanied by his running mate, Temitope Agiri, appealed to party members and residents of Osun State to con nue suppor ng the ADC and remain steadfast in
He said the party enjoys widespread acceptance, love and solidarity among the people of Osun State.
Osun Police Command Condemns Billboard Vandalism
Oladele Israel
THE Osun State Police Command has issued a strong warning against the growing incident of billboard vandalism across the state, describing the development as a threat to public peace and poli cal stability.
In a statement, the command condemned the destruc on of billboards and other government-related structures, stressing that such ac on amount to criminal damage and a direct challenge to cons tuted authority.
According to the police, the increasing cases of vandalism have the poten al to heighten poli cal tension and disrupt the peaceful atmosphere currently being enjoyed in the state.
The Command warned that if le unchecked, such act could create unnecessary unrest and undermine ongoing efforts to maintain law and order.
The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, cau oned individuals involved in the destruc on of public property to immediately desist from the unlawful acts.
He emphasized that the police would not tolerate any ac vity capable of threatening public
safety or destabilizing the state.
CP Gotan further disclosed that inves gaons into the incidents had already commenced, adding that security opera ves are working to iden fy, arrest, and prosecute those responsible in accordance with the law.
The Command also appealed to poli cal pares, candidates, and their supporters to conduct their ac vi es peacefully and within the framework of the Electoral Act. It urged poli cal actors to embrace tolerance, lawful engagement, and issue-based campaigns rather than resor ng to
The Osun Central senatorial aspirant further commended Goveragencies.
ac ons capable of provoking violence or disorder.
The police commissioner advised residents of the state to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant, while promptly repor ng any suspicious movements or ac vi es to the nearest police staon or relevant security
Reaffirming its commitment to protec ng lives and property, the police called on all stakeholders to cooperate in safeguarding public infrastructure and preserving the peace and stability of Osun State ahead of upcoming poli cal ac vies.
“I want to assure you that God is on our side, and with the overwhelming support we con nue to receive across the state, we are in a strong posi on to emerge victorious in the elec on.
“This is a structured party founded on progressive ideals. We are determined to restore the sanc ty and dignity of issue-based campaigns devoid of hatred and rancour, which will, in turn, renew the people’s confidence in democracy and good governance,” Salaam added.
Police Deploy More Officers After Ikire Killing
Yusuf Oketola
THE Osun State Police Command has deployed more officers to Ikire and its environ following the recent poli cal violence that led to death of Osun Accord Women leader’s son, Kolade Eluyera in the area.
The Osun Police Public Rela ons Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi confirmed this to OSUN DEFENDER during a telephone interview yesterday.
He said: “Osun is rela vely peaceful for now aside from what happened in Ikire the last me. Though, the Commissioner of Police in the state has deployed more officers to curb further violence. We are on top of the situa on.”
Eluyera was reportedly murdered on Friday near Onireke Mosque in Ikire by poli cal thugs seeking to silence his mother because of her popularity within the party, according to Accord na onal leadership.
In a statement issued by the Na onal Chairman, Maxwell Mgbuden, he described the incident as “gruesome,” “barbaric,” and poli cally mo vated.
He said, “It is outrageous and barbaric that a young man would be murdered by poli cal thugs to silence his mother, who is a popular Accord woman leader in Irewole Local Government of the state.”
The party said it was devastated by the killing, insis ng that Eluyera’s “only offence was being a member of Accord,” which it described as his cons tu onal right to freedom of associa on.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with
the members of his family, trus ng God to console, comfort, and strengthen them in this trying me.
“Certainly, his death will not be in vain. Kolade Eluyera has paid the supreme price in our collec ve quest for a be er, greater and prosper-
ous Osun State,” the party added. Accord demanded the immediate arrest and prosecu on of those behind the killing and their alleged sponsors, urging security agencies to ensure the safety of residents during the electoral season.
•Osun CP•The deceased
•Adeleke
Iloba People Are Tenants On Our Land - Egbedi Community
•Says Land Grabbing Claim Against Elegbedi False •Don’t Rewrite History - Iloba Tells Mogaji
Yusuf Oketola
THE Mogaji of Egbedi in Egbedore Local Government Area of Osun State, Chief Ibrahim Ayansola has refuted the allega on of land grabbing made against the Elegbedi of Egbedi, Oba Muideen Azeez Olaniyi by the people of Iloba of Oloba compound, Ede.
According to Chief Ayansola, the place where the Oloba descendants se led belongs to Egbedi.
The Mogaji claimed that the land was given to the Olobas to farms, no ng that they are the original owners f
Of the disputed land.
He stated this during an exclusive interview with OSUN DEFENDER at the weekend.
This follows allegaons by the people of Iloba that the Elegbedi had been using thugs to in midate their people and forcing them out of their lands.
But Mogaji described
the allega on as false and a empt to discredit the Elegbedi’s throne, stressing that the people of Iloba are mere tenants.
“We do not have any disagreement with the people of Iloba. The fact is that they are our customary tenants. We
Why
I’m Contesting Ijesa
gave them land for farming ac vi es and there is nothing like Iloba town, it’s Iloba farm. In the olden days, their forefathers paid royalty to Elegbedi.
“What led to this crisis is that they want to begin to sell our land and we will not fold our arms to allow that. They do not
have shelters here, just economic trees. They are indigenes of Ede at Oloba compound. That has been the explana on we have been making to each other and we have been in different courts and we should wait for judgment.
“There is a court rul-
Interview
ing saying both par es should maintain the status quo but they have refused to obey court order.
“The people of Iloba had been using thugs led by one Hammed and Abiodun Oyeweso to inmidate our people. We had crossed part with
them on several occasions on our land. We have called the police on them several mes and they were taken to the state CID.”
The Agbaakin urged the state government to intervene in the ma er before it degenerated.
“We want to urge Governor Ademola Adeleke to intervene in the matter. They are men oning his name whenever they come to a ack us and we don’t want anything that would tarnish his image,” he added.
Contrary to Chief Ayansola’s claim, a community in Iloba, Imam Muslimdeen Sodiq, said they were the one who gave out land to the Egbedis to se le in through their forefather, Ogunjolaade who was then a guest of Oludo of Ido-Osun.
Imam Sodiq stressed that their forefather, Agbebiyi, was the one who se led Ogunjolaade at the present day Egbedi, warning Chief Ayansola’s from rewri ng the history . He also called on the state government to wade into the ma er.
South Federal Constituency – ADC Aspirant, Oladimeji
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) House of Representatives aspirant in Ijesa South Federal Constituency, Ajibola Ebenezer Oladimeji in this interview told YUSUF OKETOLA that his ambition is driven by a determination to effect changes that will ease the suffering of his constituents. Excerpt
Can we meet you sir?
My name is Ajibola Ebenezer Oladimeji. I was born in Ilesa. A grandson to Chief Oladimeji Ezekiel Ogundipe (p@opularly known as Baba Oke Agbe oni cocoa), the son of SAAOYE of Oke-oye Ijesha land. I had both Primary and secondary educaon in Ibadan, Oyo State before proceeding to AdoEki for my ter ary educa on.
I had my Master’s degree in Cyprus Interna onal University and PhD in Business (in view)
Why are you contes ng for the Ijesa South Reps Seat and what’s your vision?
I’m personally not happy with the situa on of our country in this age and me. I believe we can do better. The people of my cons tuency believe I can effect some changes that will ease our suffering, they have decided to nominate me to represent them on ma ers that concern them.
What is the current situa on of development in your cons tuency and what will you do to improve it?
I have been to several areas in my cons tuency and I’m sad to admit that a lot of things are not good at all. At the Ilerin area of Atakumosa West, there are solar boreholes there that are out of commission, instead of was ng resources to build new ones, they could be refurbished but they’re just there useless and ro ng. No security presence there in case of any emergencies. Also there’s a lot that could be done to assist people there to enjoy be er living condi ons. The roads there are almost not motorable. How will you handle cons tuency projects and do you believe in stomach infrastructure?
I don’t believe in stomach infrastructure. I believe we can assist communi es by looking into projects that can boost the economy of the communi es,
when there’s a be er economic atmosphere, opportuni es arise and opportuni es births income never thought of before. That said, not recognizing the current situa on of the people is pure evil. While we work on how to boost communal infrastructure to help communi es to grow economically, there would be hunger interven on programs to ease the current hunger in the land, at least I can speak for my cons tuency on that.
What’s your manifesto and why do you want people to vote for you?
If elected, I plan to execute projects that touch a large number of cons tuency ci zens. A project for 3 or 4 persons is unfair to the people of the cons tuency. There will be projects at unit, ward and local government levels. Also, would come up with project op ons and give the people the opportunity to decide which project gets executed for their unit, ward, and local government levels respec vely.
The amount of work to be done is dependent on the available resources for the cons tuency. I want the people to vote for me because I believe I will do everything within my power to make life easier. Ensure transparency and inclusion in the decision making process.
What’s your advice for young people like you regarding poli cs?
To Young men and women, I’ll advise us to not leave their fate in the hands of our elders alone. We should be encouraged to vote, pursue offices and encourage younger candidates by choosing them first especially in posi ons of power where youthful energy is required for substan al performance.
•Chief Ibrahim Ayansola, Mogaji of Egbedi
•Chief Ganiyu Taoreed Agbaakin of Egbedi
FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2026
Salaam Assures Uninterrupted Power Supply In Osun
Yusuf Oketola
AHEAD of the August 15 gorvernorship poll in Osun State, the governorship candidate of the African Democra c Congress, Dr Najeem Salaam, has promised uninterrupted power supply to the people of the state, saying they should trust him with their votes.
Salaam made the promise while featuring on a Current Affairs Programme on Freedom TV, Ilesa on Tuesday.
According to him, he had concluded plans to achieve stable electricity supply in the state with stakeholders in the power sectors following the passage of the ‘Osun State Electricity Market Regula on Bill 2025’.
He boasted that stable electricity would boost the state economy and reduce criminality as border communi es will be secured.
“I have concluded arrangements with stakeholders in the power sectors on how to have stable and uninterrupted power supply in Osun State.
The Federal Government has given each state the right to generate their own electricity. We have made further research on this law and those who want to assist in achieving this are on standby.
“By the grace of God, we will achieve this aim without borrowing a dime. There won’t anymore under our watch. The terms and condi ons with the contractors will be made public as the event unfolds. Once we have regular and uninterrupted power supply in Osun, the economy will improve.
“Also, the security of lives and properes is guaranteed and this can be done with regular electricity because we need electricity for security cameras to func on. All our boundaries will be secured without the physical presence of security officers I can assure of that. All these will be read out in our manifesto soon,” He stressed.
Recall that in 2024, the Nigerian Electricity
Regulatory Commission began the process of gran ng states the authority to manage their electricity markets, including the
genera on, transmission, and distribu on of power within their boundaries.
More so, callers on the show, reminisce
on the impac ul legacy of former governor Rauf Aregbesola especially on educa on and his social interven on programmes.
NGO Calls For Training Of Osun Teachers
Yusuf Oketola
ANon-Governmental Organiza on, One House Development Ini a ve (OHI) has called for training of teachers in Osun State on how to handle students/adolescents/ teenagers.
The group also recommended that schools in the state should have more toilet facili es for students with a framework for maintenance.
OHI made the call a er a visit to Laro Grammar School, Osogbo as part of their boy child programme recently.
In a release by Tunbosun Olabomi, the Team Lead, One House Ini ave, the organiza on said
it no ces students being s gma zed for past misdemeanor which should never be but rather for the teachers to render support to the erring students.
Olabomi stressed that the teachers need to be trained on how to interact with students within and outside the school premises.
Though, the NGO commended the neatness of Laro Grammar School boys and their environment, describing it as the neatest so far with the aid of one of their teachers, Mrs. Bode Obanla.
The students were also advised to shun social vices such as internet fraud, robbery, rape, rituals and poli cal thuggery.
Art/Culture
The Elders Did Not Leave Us Empty-Handed
• Our culture Is Filled With Guidance — If We Look
IN today’s fast-paced world, where new technologies and modern ideas o en dominate conversaons, it is easy to forget the deep reservoirs of wisdom embedded in our cultural heritage.
Yet, as the Yoruba people of Osun State and the broader African con nent reflect on their history, one undeniable truth emerges: The elders did not leave us empty-handed. Our ancestors bequeathed a wealth of guidance, values, and prac cal knowledge that remain profoundly relevant—if only we choose to look.
Culture, o en misunderstood as mere tradi on or outdated prac ces, is in fact a living archive of human experience. It shapes our iden ty, informs our behavior, and offers lessons on navigating life’s complexi es. The Yoruba culture, in par cular, is rich with proverbs, oral stories, and social norms that
serve as blueprints for harmony, respect, and resilience. The elders, who once ruled and guided our communi es, invested decades—o en a life me—in cul va ng this heritage.
One key aspect of this wisdom is the value placed on respect for others and community cohesion. Elders taught us that individual success is inseparable from communal well-being. This principle echoes in the age-old Yoruba proverb, “Igi imuṣere ko ni dagba lọkàn àdán”— meaning, “A tree planted for fun doesn’t grow in the leopard’s heart.” In other words, our collecve harmony depends on nurturing mutual respect and shared values.
Moreover, the elders le us prac cal knowledge on sustainability and environmental harmony. Long before “green” became a global buzzword, our forebears understood the delicate balance between humans and nature. The layout of tradi onal
compounds, use of local materials, and seasonal farming cycles were designed not just for survival but for sustainable prosperity. This indigenous knowledge remains cri cal as we confront environmental challenges today.
The cultural stories and fes vals that mark the Yoruba calendar are more than celebraons—they are living lessons wrapped in rituals and symbols. They teach pa ence, perseverance, gra tude, and the importance of honoring ancestors. These narraves connect generaons, reminding us that while mes change, the core values that bind us remain constant.
It is important to recognize that this heritage is not sta c or irrelevant. Rather, it provides a founda on upon which we can build modern progress. Our elders’ guidance encourages us to innovate while respec ng our roots—a blend of tradi on and modernity that many Af-
rican socie es are striving to achieve. For example, the use of oral history as a tool for conflict resolu on or the communal decision-making processes reflect meless governance models that promote inclusiveness and fairness.
Unfortunately, many young people today have grown detached from these cultural treasures, seeing them as barriers to “modern success.” This disconnect has led to a loss of iden ty and missed opportuni es to harness the strength embedded in our heritage. To truly progress, we must re-engage with our elders’ teachings—not as relics, but as ac ve, living resources.
In Osun State, a land steeped in Yoruba tradion, this reconnec on is par cularly vital. The people of Ede, Ife, Osogbo, and surrounding communi es have the unique opportunity to lead by example—dem-
onstra ng how cultural wisdom can harmonize with modern development. Schools, families, and local governments can play pivotal roles in reviving these lessons, ensuring that our culture remains a source of pride and prac cal guidance. As we reflect on the legacy of our elders, let us ask ourselves: Are we truly listening? Are we seeking the guidance they generously le behind? The answers to these ques ons may well determine the future of our communi es. The elders did not leave us empty-handed. They handed us tools for life—values, wisdom, and prac ces that can illuminate our path forward. In embracing these gi s, we honor their memory and empower ourselves to build a future that is both prosperous and rooted in the richness of our past.
•Cross-section of Traditional Rulers at a Summit on Gender-Based Violence Prevention, held at the Obas’ Chamber, Finance Building Conference Hall, Osun State Secretariat, Abere, yesterday
Photo: Shola Aderinto
Arsenal Remains Title Favourite As Premier League Race Heads For Dramatic Finish
Ibrahim Abdullahi
ARSENAL sit at the summit of the Premier League with 79 points from 36 matches, holding a narrow two-point advantage over Manchester City as the 2025/26tle race reaches its final stretch.
With only two games remaining, Mikel Arteta’s side are in control of their des ny but face intense pressure to finish the job and secure a first league tle in over two decades.
Their most recent ou ng was a hardfought 1–0 victory away at West Ham United. A late goal from Leandro Trossard proved decisive in the 83rd minute, while goalkeeper David Raya delivered key saves to preserve a crucial clean sheet. Arsenal dominated large spells of the match but were repeatedly denied a wider margin, including efforts that struck the woodwork.
The match also ended amid controversy a er West Ham briefly believed they had equalised in stoppage me. However, a VAR review ruled the goal out for a foul in
the buildup, allowing Arsenal to escape with all three points and maintain their posi on at the top of the table. A en on now shi s to a poten ally decisive run-in. Arsenal return to the Emirates Stadium to face Burnley FC on May 18, a fixture they are strongly expected to win given their opponents’ posion near the bo om of the table. A victory could even seal the
Premier League tle depending on results elsewhere.
The final match of the season sees Arsenal travel to Selhurst Park to face Crystal Palace on May 24. Known for their unpredictability at home, Palace could yet influence the desna on of the trophy if the race remains alive on the final day.
With momentum, squad depth, and consistency on their side,
Arsenal remain favourites. However, the challenge from Manchester
Osun Summit: Traditional Rulers Pledge To Lead Fight Against Gender-Based Violence
Shola Aderinto
TRADITIONAL rulers in Osun State have pledged to move from passive custodians of culture to ac ve champions against gender-based violence, saying jus ce for women and girls depends on how royal father’s use their influence to challenge harmful norms and set clear standards for their communi es.
The summit held at the Obas’ Chamber, Finance Building, Osun State Secretariat, Abere, brought together tradi onal rulers from different parts of the state, government of-
ficials, civil society groups, and development partners.
It was organized by ACTIONAID Nigeria in collabora on with the Osun State Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Social Welfare and the Mul stakeholders Commi ee on GBV Preven on, with support from the Ford Founda on.
The event carried the theme _“From Custodians to Champions: Refining Culture for GBV Prevenon and Community Protec on.”_
The Orangun of Oke IlaOrangun, Ọba Adedokun
José Mourinho’s Real Madrid Return Nearing Final Stages As Talks Advance Ahead Of Key Decision
Ibrahim Abdullahi
JOSÉ Mourinho’s poten al return to Real Madrid is reportedly entering its final phase, with discussions said to be progressing posi vely as the club edges toward a key decision from president Floren no Pérez.
According to Fabrizio
Romano on X, talks between Mourinho’s representa ves and senior Real Madrid officials have advanced significantly.
However, any final move s ll requires approval from Pérez, which may also be influenced by the club’s upcoming elec on meline.
Romano noted that
nego a ons have been construc ve, with both par es increasingly aligned on the framework of a possible return, even though nothing has been officially completed.
Mourinho, who previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, is reportedly open to making a comeback and ready to take charge if the club proceeds with the appointment.
During his first spell at the San ago Bernabéu, he won La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup, while also restoring the club’s compe veness in Europe during a highly compeve era.
Although no official agreement has been announced, sources suggest momentum is building, with the situa on described as “advanced” but s ll awai ng final approval at the highest level.
For now, Mourinho’s return remains unconfirmed, but recent developments indicate the situa on is moving closer to a decisive stage.
Abolarin, Chairman, Mulstakeholder Ac on Commi ee on GBV Preven on, told the gathering that tradi onal rulers must ensure culture is not used as cover for abuse.
The monarch said “we must ensure that culture is not used as a shield for silence, injus ce or harmful prac ces,” Ọba Abolarin said.
“
“We must be the voices that boldly declare that the dignity, safety and protec on of women and girls are non-nego able,” the monarch added.
He said the Mul stakeholder Ac on Committee on GBV Preven on in Osun State, inaugurated in 2024 under the MAPGBV project with support from ACTIONAID Nigeria and the Ford Founda on, has moved GBV prevenon from policy discussions into community acon through sensi za on, stakeholder dialogues, and awareness campaigns.Citing a town hall mee ng in Oke-Ila Orangun, he said the willingness of community members to confront difficult truths showed what happens when tradi onal ins tu ons create space for honest conversaon.
“When tradi onal ins tu ons create the space for these conversa ons, people respond, communi es listen, change begins.”
Ọba Abolarin warned that silence was no longer tenable in communi es where violence persists. “History will remember us for the decisions we made. The women and girls in our kingdoms are watching. We are their last hope for a life of safety and dignity.”
He called on tradi onal rulers across the state to unite and build a statewide movement of royal leadership for protec on and accountability.
“When tradi onal rulers unite across senatorial districts and speak with
one voice, the impacts becomes impossible to ignore… Let our palaces become center of safety and moral authority,” he stated.
Representa ve of the Ooni f Ife, KnaAdeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, Arole Oduduwa, Ooni of Ife, the Asoya of Ile-Isoya Kingdom, HRM Oba (Dr.) Muraina Adebanjo Adedini, said tradi onal ins tuons must use their influence to promote respect, dignity, and equity.
“Gender-Based Violence remains one of the most painful social challenges confron ng our society today,” the monarch said.
“It affects women, children, families, and communi es, leaving emo onal, psychological, social, and economic scars that o en last for generaons.”
“As tradi onal rulers, we cannot remain silent in the face of violence, abuse, in mida on, harmful cultural prac ces, and the oppression of vulnerable members of society.
Our tradi onal ins tuons have always served as custodians of jus ce, morality, discipline, and communal harmony.”
He stressed that palaces must remain places of refuge and jus ce. “We must ensure that our palaces con nue to stand firmly against all forms of domes c violence, child abuse, sexual violence, harmful widowhood pracces, forced marriages, and every act that diminishes human dignity.”
Oba Adedini called for stronger collabora on among tradi onal ins tuons, government agencies, security bodies, civil society, and the media to create awareness, encourage repor ng, support survivors, and ensure jusce for vic ms. He reaffirmed the commitment of the tradi onal ins tuon to promo ng peaceful homes and building
safer communi es across Osun State and Nigeria.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Children and Social Welfare described the gathering as “ mely and significant,” saying tradi onal rulers remain “highly respected voices and agents of social change.”
She commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for consistent poli cal will on gender equality and protec on of vulnerable persons, and acknowledged the A orney General and Commissioner for Jus ce, Hon. Jimi Bada (SAN), for his support. She also thanked ACTIONAID Nigeria and the Ford Founda on for championing the ini a ve.
“The Ministry remains fully commi ed to con nuous sensi za on, awareness crea on, advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and community mobilizaon toward the total eradica on of Gender-Based Violence,” she said.
Dr. Andrew Mene of ACTIONAID Nigeria said legal frameworks alone could not end violence against women and girls. Ci ng UNFPA data that one in three girls in Nigeria experiences genderbased violence, he urged monarchs to make public declara ons of zero tolerance.
“Culture is dynamic. A word from the palace can shi community behavior faster than laws alone,” Mene said.
The Ministry of Jus ce reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on out-of-court se lements for GBV cases and said its Gender-Based Response Unit tracks and prosecutes offenders.
Organizers said the summit aimed to posi on Osun as a model for integra ng tradi onal authority with legal systems to protect vulnerable groups. Permanent secretaries, directors, and civil society representa ves also attended the event.
City ensures that the tle will likely go down to the wire, keeping
fans braced for a tense and poten ally historic finish.
FRIDAY, MAY 15, 2026 VOL. 21 NO 38 www.osundefender.com, email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com
WHAT was sold to Nigerians as “reform” has revealed itself as something far more sinister: state-sanc oned extrac on masquerading as economic policy. Consider the numbers. Between 2015 and 2023, Nigeria spent an es mated ₦12.6 trillion on fuel subsidies:
2015: ₦654 billion
2016: ₦240 billion
2017: ₦154 billion
2018: ₦1.19 trillion
2019: ₦508 billion
2020: ₦864 billion
2021: ₦1.43 trillion
2022: ₦4 trillion
2023 (Jan–Jun): ₦3.36 trillion
Yet in the single financial year ended 2024, according to NNPCL’s audited consolidated statements, the Federa on accumulated a debt of ₦17.5 trillion to NNPCL for pipeline protec on, energy security opera ons and under-recoveries on petroleum products a figure dwarfing almost a decade of historical subsidy spending. This includes ₦7.13 trillion in energy security costs and ₦8.67 trillion in under-recoveries, with addi onal amounts covering pipeline surveillance, repairs, an -the measures, and infrastructure safeguards.
One number alone obliterates every moral and economic jusfica on ever offered for subsidy removal. The 2025 expenditure figures for these categories remain pending, but monthly reports through late 2025 highlight ongoing revenue, profits, and remi ances without disclosing totals for these high-cost areas.Let us dispense with euphemisms.As its subsidy removal did not eradicate corrup on it ins tu onalised it. It did not dismantle vested interests it entrenched them. It did not restore fiscal discipline, it diverted public wealth into fewer, more predatory hands.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s public debt has ballooned, rising from ₦12.6 trillion in 2015 to over ₦140 trillion today, as deficit financing accelerates unchecked. The government’s repeated promises that subsidy removal would stabilise finances have proven illusory. The visible subsidy was eliminated, only to be replaced by invisible, opaque spending executed with bureaucra c precision.A ruthless coalion clique, cartel or cabal now presides over a system deliberately structured to immiserate over 250 million ci zens while protec ng a privileged minority. Hardship has been codified as policy. Opacity has become governance.Let me be blunt this is among the most damaging administra ons Nigeria has experienced. What we are witnessing is
OLUFEMI ADUWO
Invisible Looting, Visible Suffering: The Real Cost Of Subsidy Removal
not macroeconomic adjustment; it is policy-driven preda on.
Don’t be deceived by the
interna onal ra ng agencies, mul lateral ins tu ons, they were engaged.I have been a re-
“Don’t be deceived by the international rating agencies, multilateral institutions, they were engaged.I have been a returnee to the World Bank & IMF Boards of Governors Meetings since 2012, served in the Civil Society Policy Forum (CSPF) of the World Bank, and assisted the World Bank Independent Integrity Group these institutions are diplomatic in words and actions. When these institutions applaud a nation, it is often a signal that citizens are in distress and governance has shifted to optics over substance”
When Justice Bows To Power
“ THE one place where a man ought to get a square deal is in a courtroom.” – A cus Finch, To Kill a Mockingbird
A cus Finch also reminded us: “Thomas Jefferson once said that all men are created equal… but there is one way in this country in which all men are created equal—there is one human instu on that makes a pauper the equal of a Rockefeller… That instu on, gentlemen, is a court.” Together, these words underscore a meless truth: the courtroom is meant to be the great leveler, the one place where jus ce does not bow to wealth, privilege, or power.
Yet in Nigeria today, many ci zens no longer believe this is true. The legal profession, once revered as the guardian of jusce, increasingly struggles under the weight of corrup on, indiscipline, and impunity within its own ranks. At the heart of this problem lies the failure to hold lawyers accountable for misconduct.
A growing menace is the filing of frivolous cases—claims brought not for jus ce but to harass opponents or delay out-
comes. These cases clog the dockets of judges, consuming scarce judicial me and resources that could otherwise serve genuine li gants. Closely ed to this abuse is the reckless resort to ex parte orders, o en obtained under dubious circumstances and weaponized to achieve what the law would not ordinarily allow. Such tac cs undermine judicial integrity and erode public faith in the courts.
Many mes judges get pilloried for delivering conflic ng judgments, especially at the appellate level; however, the lawyers who argue these some mes-absurd posi ons of law are not subjected to equal scorn, and neither are they ques oned by the Nigerian Bar Associa on. Worse s ll, the NBA itself has been reduced to a body that bites only when the lawyer in breach is deemed inconsequen al, but somehow becomes toothless when the lawyer is a man of repute and means in the profession. This selec ve discipline reinforces the sense that the rules are nego able for the powerful, while the weak bear the full weight of regula on.
The situa on is worsened by
turnee to the World Bank & IMF Boards of Governors Mee ngs since 2012, served in the Civil Society Policy Forum (CSPF) oSpor the World Bank, and assisted the World Bank Independent Integrity Group these ins tu ons are diploma c in words and ac ons. When these ins tu ons applaud a na on, it is o en a signal that ci zens are in distress and governance has shi ed to op cs over substance.
Another four years of this approach would deepen debt distress, accelerate capital flight, erode investor confidence and further impoverish households. No economy can survive prolonged exposure to predatory governance.History will not recall this era as one of necessary adjustment. It will record it as a na onal tragedy engineered by professional looters and legi mised with technocra c language. Shame ,I mean profound shame on a system that has ins tu onalised corrup on, weaponised policy and dignified the as governance.
•Permanent Representative of CCDI to the ECOSOC/ United Nations NB: CCDI is non profit organisation with Consultative Status of United Nations.
the conduct of “big wigs” of the Bar who, shielded by rank and poli cal connec ons, rou nely flout the rules of professional prac ce with impunity. When senior lawyers treat the rules as sugges ons rather than obligaons, they set a damaging precedent for younger prac oners and signal that corrup on pays. For the ordinary Nigerian, these pa erns are devasta ng. A common man who steps into court with hope o en meets endless adjournments, compromised processes, and a percep on that jus ce is for sale. The sense that “the system is rigged” discourages ci zens from seeking redress in lawful ways, pushing disputes into the streets rather than the courtroom.
Discipline, therefore, is not a luxury for the legal profession—it is its lifeline. The Bar must show that no lawyer, no ma er how senior, is above the rules. Reviving strict oversight, punishing abuse of court processes, and holding prac oners to account are essen al steps if the courts are to remain places where the poor and powerful alike can expect a square deal. A society where the interest of the common man is secured is a society des ned for greatness.
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
STRIKER Striker is not the opinion of the Columnist featured above
