Osun Defender Online Version of April 11, 2025

Teachers’ Recruitment: Human Rights Group Faults Adeleke Over Delay In Appointment Letters P 6

Omoluabi Progressives Desist Or Face The Full Wrath Stakeholders Pledge Of Law - Reinstated Chairman To Consolidate Membership P 6 To Illegal Tax Collectors P 4 Mobilisation Drive

FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2025 - THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2025 VOL 20 NO 14

Four Months After, ‘Alternative High School For Girls’ Yet To Commence Operation P2

•As Osun Govt Keeps Interested Applicants In Limbo

•The Alternative High School for Girls under lock when OSUN DEFENDER visited on Thursday Photo: Olushola Aderinto

16 Years After Methodist Church Frustrating Presidential Losing Eyesight Assent To Upgrade Osun To Police Torture, Osun Student Hospital, Lawmaker Alleges P 5 Cries For Help P 5

FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2025 - THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2025

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News

Four Months After, ‘Alternative High School For Girls’ Yet To Commence Operation Kazeem Badmus

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OUR months a er Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, officially inaugurated and handed over the Alterna ve High School for Girls to the Osun State

government, the place is s ll under lock and key, OSUN DEFENDER reliably gathered.

The Alterna ve High School for Girls, a facility for academic and voca onal educa on for young mothers in the

state, was inaugurated on December 13, 2024, in Osogbo.

Speaking during the inaugura on and official handing of the project to Governor Ademola Adeleke, the First Lady stated that the comple-

on of the project would ensure that all women and girls, regardless of their circumstances, have access to quality educaon.

Describing the facili es available at the school, she said it was

•The newly-elected execu ves of the Na onal Youth Congress (NYC), Osun Chapter a er their inaugura on and handover ceremony at the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Abere, Osun State, yesterday

Displaced Farmers Call For Osun Government Swift Action, Alleges Monarch Of Causing Violence Kazeem Badmus

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ORE than 3,000 farmers displaced from Iloba and Oloosape communi es in Osun State have appealed to the state government to facilitate their return to their ancestral lands, six years a er violent attacks drove them away.

The farmers alleged that they were driven from their villages in 2019 by armed hoodlums from the neighbouring Egbedi community, adding that they have been unable to access their farmlands since the sad incident happened.

Speaking with newsmen on Monday in Osogbo, the state capital, the displaced farmers said most of the houses in the two communi es were set ablaze during the violent incident.

The Olu of Oloosape, Oba Hassan Adegoke, said, who spoke on behalf of the farmers, explained that, “Almost all the buildings in Iloba and Oloosape were set ablaze during the attack. My palace was not spared either.”

He explained that the a ack led to mass displacement, hal ng all farming ac vi es in the two agrarian communies, thereby crippling their primary source of livelihood.

Oba Adegoke added

that “More than 3,000 farmers are unable to access their farms due to fear of further attacks. We can’t con nue sleeping on the streets when we have our own homes.”

The tradi onal ruler noted that he had a cordial rela onship with the late Elegbedi of Egbedi stressing, “We didn’t encroach on their land. Help us beg them to leave us alone.

“I became Baale of Olosaape in 2009. Myself and the late Elegbedi had a good rela onship.

“It was the Timi of Ede who elevated Elegbedi, Olosaape and

Oloba to part two Oba in 2015. We didn’t encroach on Elegbedi’s land but helped us beg them in Egbedi to leave us alone. We are not troublesome and what we want is peace in Olosaape and Iloba.

“We are pleading with the Osun State Government and the Federal Government to intervene on our behalf,” Oba Adegoke said.

Speaking on the shoo ng incident which occurred on February 27 in Egbedi which le seven people injured, a community leader in Iloba, Adesoji Aderemi, refuted claims that peo-

ple from Iloba were involved in the clash.

Aderemi said, “The Oloba family from Ede has lived peacefully in Iloba for decades. We demand a thorough inves ga on to iden fy those responsible for the a acks.”

He also dismissed accusa ons made by the Elegbedi, asser ng that neither the Timi of Ede, Oba Adesola Lawal, nor his subjects had knowledge of the February incident.

Efforts to reach the Elegbedi, Oba Azeez, for comment were unsuccessful, as calls to his line by OSUN DEFENDER went unanswered.

equipped with a crèche to enable young mothers to a end classes without worrying about their babies.

She noted that through the facili es, girls and women were not only going to get a second chance at formal educaon but also equipped with life skills to rebuild their confidence, independence, and poten al to contribute meaningfully to society.

She added that the facility had been officially handed over to the State Government for operaon and maintenance, urging the beneficiaries to use the opportunity to empower themselves for a be er future.

She said, “A skills acquisi on centre to provide voca onal training and economic empowerment; and modern classrooms to create a conducive learning environment for academic excellence.

“Through these facili es, we are not only giving these girls and women a second chance at formal educa on but also equipping them with life skills to rebuild their confidence, independence, and poten al to contribute meaningfully to society.

“I would like to add that inves ng in the educa on of women and girls is inves ng in the future of our na on. To the beneficiaries of this school, I want to say to you all: YOUR PAST DOES NOT DEFINE YOU. This is another chance, another opportunity, and you must embrace it with determina on and focus. Just believe in yourself and know there is light at the end of every tunnel.”

However, there was no sign of any ac vity at the facility when OSUN DE-

Adeleke Relaxes Curfew Ahead Of WASSCE Yusuf Oketola

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SUN State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has reduced the curfew imposed on three conflict-affected communi es from 17 hours to 12 hours.

The curfew will now run from 7 pm to 7 am daily in Ilobu, Ifon, and Erin Osun communi es.

According to the state’s Commissioner for Informa on and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, the decision was based on security reports indica ng a gradual return of peace to the area.

The adjustment also aims to accommodate students preparing for upcoming

na onal examina ons.

“The relaxa on of the curfew is sequel to the different security reports reaching the governor that the much-expected ceasefire is taking centre stage on a daily basis,” Alimi stated.

The three communies recently experienced violent clashes that resulted in mul ple deaths and property destrucon. Despite the reduced curfew hours, Governor Adeleke has ordered security forces to maintain 24-hour surveillance in the affected areas.

The governor cited the upcoming West African Senior School Cer ficate Examina on star ng

April 24 as a key factor in his decision, sta ng that the situa on would not be allowed to disrupt students’ educa on.

“The new me frame of the curfew will also allow our children who want to write WAEC, NECO and JAMB Examina ons to be able to do so without any

•Adeleke

form of hindrance, as we cannot allow their future to be mortgaged,” Adeleke explained.

The governor has also directed a 100-member crisis resolu on commi ee to expedite their work toward finding a las ng solu on to the conflict. He warned that anyone found disrup ng peace would face legal consequences.

“It is only in an atmosphere of peace and unity that the muchsought growth and development can be achieved in the three communi es of Ifon, Ilobu and Erin Osun as well as the en re state,” Adeleke concluded.

FENDER visited on Tuesday.

Also, the medium reliably gathered that the ministries that would be in charge of the school had not been properly briefed by the state government.

A senior officer in the Ministry of Educa on who does not want her name in print because she was not authorised to speak, told OSUN DEFENDER that they were yet to get an instruc on on how the place will be run.

The medium also gathered that there have been no forms of communicaon on how interested candidates can apply to get into the school.

Also, with the school being in the state capital, informa on to rural areas where most of these single mothers and less privileged were based is limited.

Speaking on the development, a public affairs analyst, Comrade Akin Akanji, in an interview with OSUN DEFENDER, urged the state government not to allow the facility to rot away without proper usage.

Akanji said the facility is well equipped and will go a long way in helping the women if put into proper use.

He also appealed to the state government to ensure that informa on about the school is passed across to the remote areas, no ng that a lot of people would be interested in such an opportunity.

“I can only urge the state government to do the needful and make sure that school is put to proper use. We’ve seen a lot of cases where facili es like this are le to ruin.

“The First Lady had a good inten on and she has done her part. It’s le for the state government to take it from there and do the needful. It is four months already, and nothing has been heard about the place from the state government.

“The place should be handed over to the Ministries that would be in charge and also make sure informa on about the school is passed to the people at the grassroots.

A lot of people want this kind of opportunity,” he appealed.

Efforts to get the reac on of the state government proved abor ve as messages sent to the Commissioner for Informa on and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, and Commissioner for Educa on, Dipo Eluwole, were not replied to as of press me.

PEOPLE FIRST

FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2025 - THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2025

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“ The Nigeria government is just now pu ng together a taskforce. This is disappoin ng.

Apart from anything else, we ought to have been prepared decades ago for a possible end to the post ‘Second World War Washington Consensus”

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LARMINGLY, much of the African con nent with the possible excepon of the Republic of South Africa where ill-prepare for president Donald Trump libera on day tariff hike. This is unacceptable for the warnings have been clear. Everyone have been aware of “ Project 2025” which has been put together by Trump supporters outlining a hard economic na onalism “to make America great again”.

Whether or not there will be method in the MAGA magness we should have been better prepared for the sudden shock.

For us in Nigeria, we have historical examples to show that the country use to be more thorough. In 1967, a Nigerian government has a part of the then sterling block was up to the task when the Bri sh pounds sterling was the value by a Bri sh government of Harold Wilson. At that me, the Nigeria government was technically empowered had already for casted a devalua on and was proac ve in its scenario planning and an cipa on. The response was edifying.

we should have been After The ‘Liberation Day’ Boy-scout very well prepared.

It is now catch up me the •Why Preparation Matters country must beef up the task was any response planned in the first place. The Nigeria government is just now pu ng together a task-force. This is disappoin ng. Apart from anything else, we ought to have been prepared decades ago for a possible end to the post ‘Second World War Washington Consensus’.

A er all, the president of United States at the me Richard Nilson did not consult the •A GHOULISH depic on of the end of the Gold Standard in rest of the world when in 1971 1971. We should be always prepared for the unexpected. he unilaterally terminated the The response to Trump’s tar- Gold Standard. This sort of aciff hike was far from adequate on should have been a fore assuming of course that there warning for the future. Like the

force already in place. A wilder more technically equipped personnel must be put in place, For a revamp of our en re internaonal trade mechanism. Nigeria is simply not compe ve and there will be consequences in this turbulent era all misfiring agencies such as the Standards Organiza on of Nigeria (SON) must be regenerated and technically re-equipped. Di o for the ports and the en re value chain.

Frankly, we are between the rock and a hard place, Nigeria must now take its compe veness in Interna onal trade relaons very seriously.

TheTribute Discourse A Tribute To Dr. Omololu Olunloyo: A Renaissance Man Of Nigeria

By Sina Babasola, PhD HE curtain has fallen on an extraordinary life — a life defined by brilliance, unshakable patrio sm, and an unwavering commitment to public service. With the passing of Dr. Victor Omololu Sowemimo Olunloyo, Nigeria mourns the loss of one of its most intellectually gi ed, visionary, and deeply principled sons.

Born into the illustrious Olunloyo family of Ibadan, Dr. Olunloyo displayed signs of genius early in life. A mathema cal prodigy, he earned a first-class degree from the University of London and, at an age when most were s ll char ng their paths, obtained a Ph.D. in mathema cs — an achievement that placed him among the brightest minds not just in Nigeria, but globally. But his intellect was never confined to academic theory. He was a thinker whose ideas bridged lecture halls, policy chambers, and poli cal arenas.

In 1983, he became Governor of the old Oyo State, albeit for a brief period before the military interven on that upended the democra c order. Yet, even within that short me, his governance le a las ng impression. He brought a technocra c and deeply analy cal approach to leadership — emphasizing educa on, infrastructure, and social reform. With the clarity of a scholar and the urgency of a statesman, he sought to improve the lives of his people.

Dr. Olunloyo was a man of many firsts.

At the age of 27, he became the youngest Nigerian appointed as Commissioner for Economic Development. He later served in other capaci es including Commissioner for Educa on, Special Du es, and Local Government in the old Western Region.

His contribu ons transcended public office. He had a rare, almost encyclopedic grasp of economics, poli cs, music, and mathema cs — an intellectual blend that

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•Late Olunloyo made him both revered and refreshingly unique in Nigerian public life.

Yet, tles alone do not capture the essence of Dr. Omololu Olunloyo. He was a man of immense grace, humility, and wit.

His wisdom was meless, and his mentorship was generous. Genera ons of Nigerians — from students to poli cal protégés — sought his counsel. He challenged mediocrity, inspired excellence, and remained a fearless voice of truth, even into his later years. His poli cal commentary was sharp yet measured, reflec ve of someone who carried the gravitas of Nigeria’s founding ideals while keeping pace with the dreams of its youth.

He embodied the spirit of Ibadan — proud, ar culate, rooted in heritage, and yet cosmopolitan in worldview. He was a bridge between eras, between the visions of our founding fathers and the aspira ons of a modern Nigeria.

Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo belonged to that rare and honorable league of Nigerian statesmen — a class exemplified by the late Jus ce Mustapha Akanbi — known for their unwavering integrity, transparen-

cy, and incorrup bility. In an era when public office is o en seen as a gateway to personal enrichment, Dr. Olunloyo remained a beacon of ethical leadership and moral rec tude.

Throughout his long and dis nguished service — both at the state and federal levels — he never once dipped his hands into the public coffers. He did not exploit his posi on for personal gain, nor did he accumulate lavish proper es in capital ci es across Nigeria or the Western world, as many of his contemporaries have notoriously done.

Instead, he chose a life of simplicity and honor, residing in the modest family home he inherited from his late father in Ibadan.

His lifestyle was a testament to humility and self-discipline — values he upheld with quiet dignity. Like the late Jus ce Akanbi, he lived not for wealth or fame, but for service, scholarship, and the greater good.

“He shaped my life in more ways than one. At pivotal points in my career and personal journey, I turned to him.

He was candid in his advice — especially when it came to matters of the heart”

These were men who walked the path of righteousness, even when it was lonely and less rewarding in material terms.

What a rare legacy of modesty and integrity — one that deserves to be studied, celebrated, and emulated in a country yearning for true servant-leader.

On a personal note, Dr. Olunloyo was more than a mentor to me — he was a father in every sense of the word. His Molete residence in Ibadan was my second Publisher – Moremi Publishing home. His two wives, in House Ltd. their graciousness, o en referred to him as “your faAsst. News Editor – Yusuf Oketola ther,” a tle I embraced with Asst. Features Editor – Kazeem Badmus pride and emo on. Though Deputy Photo Editor – Shola Aderinto not related by blood, the Deputy Graphics Manager – Zainab Olalere depth of our bond was stronger than many familProduc on Controller – Petkola Taiwo Ibitowa ial es. Since his passing, I have received countless OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing messages and calls — not House Limited, Promise Point Building, Opposite just of condolence, but of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), Gbongan Road, Osogbo, shared grief from those who Osun State. saw our rela onship and ISSN : 0794-8050 recognized the unique conTelephone : 0809-301-9152 nec on we had. The refrain Website : www.osundefender.com/index.php has been consistent: “We e-mail : osundefenderhq@gmail.com heard your baba has passed. osundefenderbank@gmail.com •Read full article on All correspondence to the above email addresses. www.osundefender.com

OSUN DEFENDER

FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2025 - THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2025

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News

Rival Cultists Wreak Havoc In Osun Polytechnic Yusuf Oketola violent clash between rival cult groups outside the gate of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, has le one person feared dead and four others injured, according to eyewitness accounts.

The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, reportedly involved suspected members of the Eiye and Aye confraterni es, both of whom allegedly exchanged gunfire during the confronta on.

A graphic video obtained by OSUN DEFENDER, captured a man in a white shirt striking another man repeatedly on the head with a hammer, while two others watched nearby.

“The clash happened very close to the Polytechnic gate. The man was hit on the head several mes with a hammer. Four others were also injured during the fight,” said one witness who spoke anonymously.

Eyewitnesses claimed that the vic m, described as a male adult, was rushed to a private hospital in Iree but was turned away and he reportedly died en route to another medical facility in Osogbo.

“He was s ll alive when they le the first hospital. But he stopped breathing before they reached Osogbo. His colleagues took his body away a er confirming he was dead,” the source said.

Another source disclosed that prior to the incident, security personnel on campus had reportedly held a meeting with suspected cult members in an cipa on of poten al unrest.

“The security team met with those known to be involved in cult ac vi es. But it seems the clash s ll broke out despite the efforts,” the source added.

Dr Tope Abiola, the Dean of Student Affairs at the Polytechnic, confirmed that a disturbance occurred outside the campus but stated that the vic m was no longer a student.

“We were on campus when we heard gunshots. From our findings, one person was cri cally injured. He is a former student who completed his Na onal Diploma here about two years ago,” he said.

Abiola also stated that another injured in-

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treatment but •As One Feared Killed, Four Injured receiving declined to confirm any

•The National Orientation Agency (NOA), Osun Directorate during a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Police Force, AIG Zone XI, Osogbo, yesterday es resul ng from the Command through the on the incident. dividual was struck by a stray bullet, but he could incident. spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi disclosed The Osun State Police Ojelabi also commented that those injured were not confirm any fatali-

deaths.

“Our officers are aware of the incident.

We have reports of injuries, and the vic ms are being treated. I do not have informa on confirming any loss of life,” he stated.

The confronta on caused panic among students and residents in the area, many of whom fled the vicinity as gunshots were fired.

There have been no confirmed arrests as of the me of this report and the iden es of those involved in the alterca on remain uncon-

•Continued on Page 7

Desist Or Face nabbed.

The Full Wrath Of Law - Reinstated Chairman To Illegal “Upon interroga on, uals or groups involved and in accordance with According to the it was discovered in unauthorised revenue the law,” he said.

Tax Collectors statement, some un- she was unaware ofthat the collec on within IfeloOSUN DEFENDER

Kazeem Badmus HE reinstated Chairman of Ifelodun Local Government, Hassan Okanlawon, has warned illegal market tax consultants operating within the council area to desist or face the wrath of the law.

The APC chairman in a statement issued by his media office, said anyone opera ng in the area without proper authorisa on would have himself to blame when

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authorised individuals claiming to be revenue collectors were caught by the chairman during a visit to Monday Market, Ikirun.

The statement noted that a woman posing as a consultant rate officer was intercepted by the council chairman, adding that the woman had no form of iden fica on from either the state, local government, or any recognised consultancy firm.

legal processes involved, promp ng the Chairman to pardon her on the grounds of ignorance,” the statement noted.

The statement noted that further inves gaon showed that the consultant exploited the ongoing sit-at-home by local government staff to unlawfully operate in the market.

The chairman while condemning the ac ons of such illegal consultants, called on all individ-

dun Local Government to desist immediately.

He further urged any consultant with legi mate claims or traceable documents to present themselves at the Council Secretariat for proper verifica on.

“This administra on will not condone illegality in any form. We are commi ed to sani zing the system and ensuring that all opera ons within our markets and communi es are transparent

reports that local government opera ons are currently paralysed due to the poli cal crisis on who holds control of the councils between the reinstated APC chairmen and the newly elected PDP chairmen.

The two sets of chairmen and councillors have been laying claim to being the authen c council bosses with residents eager to see the end of the lingering crisis.

Art/Culture

Unwritten Chapter: Reflections On Self-Discovery

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IFE is o en described as a book, with each moment forming a sentence, every decision a paragraph, and each season a chapter. Yet, as we move through me, it’s the unwri en chapters—the possibili es s ll lingering in the shadows of who we are becoming—that hold the most intrigue. These pages, s ll blank, are not empty of meaning. Instead, they are filled with poten al, wai ng to be shaped by the choices we make and the truths we uncover about ourselves.

Self-discovery is not a des na on, but a journey with twists and turns, detours and quiet revelaons. It’s the act of peeling back layers, some of which we didn’t even know were there. These layers are shaped by our upbringing, our culture, our fears, and the stories we’ve been told about who we are supposed to be. And somewhere beneath all of that is our truest self—wai ng pa ently

to be heard, seen, and understood.

The unwri en chapters begin to take shape the moment we start asking deeper ques ons. Who am I when no one is watching? What do I truly want, beyond what’s expected of me? What brings me peace—not applause, not recogni on—but real, soul-quie ng peace? These ques ons are not easy to answer. In fact, they o en lead us into uncertainty. But therein lies the beauty of self-discovery—it thrives not in certainty, but in curiosity.

There’s an undeniable vulnerability in acknowledging that we don’t have it all figured out. We live in a world that values decisiveness, speed, and clarity. But self-discovery o en moves at its own pace. It asks us to slow down, to reflect, and to sit with discomfort. Somemes, it even asks us to start over—not because we failed, but because we outgrew the narra ve we were once living.

In my own journey, there have been moments when I realized I was living someone else’s version of success. I was checking boxes, mee ng expecta ons, and keeping pace with the world, but inside, something felt misaligned. It wasn’t un l I paused and gave myself permission to ques on everything that I began wri ng new chapters—ones guided by inten on instead of obliga on.

This process is rarely linear. Some mes we circle back to old habits or fall into familiar roles. But even those setbacks are part of the story. They remind us of how far we’ve come, and how much more we’re capable of discovering. Every experience, whether triumphant or painful, adds depth to the narrave we’re crea ng.

Self-discovery also involves learning to let go—of perfec on, of comparison, of the need to always have a plan. It’s about embracing the unknown with grace. As the poet Rainer Maria Rilke once wrote, “Be pa ent toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the ques ons themselves.”

That pa ence allows the un-

wri en chapters to unfold naturally, guided not by pressure, but by purpose.

One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned is that self-discovery is not selfish.

In fact, it’s one of the greatest gi s we can give to the people around us. When we live authen cally, we give others permission to do the same.

Our presence becomes more grounded, our relaonships more meaningful, and our contribu ons more aligned with who we truly are.

We are not just products of our past—we are authors of our future. The blank pages ahead are not in midating once we realize we hold the pen. And while we may not know exactly what lies

ahead, we can trust that the story we’re wri ng is one worth telling.

So, if you’re in a season of ques oning or transi on, know that you are not alone. Every step you take toward self-awareness is a step toward freedom.

Don’t be afraid to rewrite old chapters or begin new ones en rely. Reflect deeply, dream boldly, and keep moving forward with compassion for yourself.

The unwri en chapters are not something to fear, but something to embrace.

They are living proof that our story isn’t over, and our growth hasn’t stopped.

With every reflec on and every act of courage, we move closer to the person we’re meant to become.

News

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Methodist Church Frustrating Presidential Assent To Upgrade Osun Hospital, Lawmaker Alleges Yusuf Oketola

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HE Methodist Church of Nigeria, has been accused of frustra ng Presiden al Assent on the upgrading of Wesley Guid Hospital, Ilesa to a Federal Medical Centre in a bid to transform it to the Teaching hospital of her Ondo based Wesley University.

This was contained a statement by the Lawmaker represen ng Ilesa South Federal Cons tuency at the House of Representaves, Hon Sanya Omirin last weekend.

According to Omirin, the agita on for the upgrade of the hospital gained higher trac on during the legisla ve term of Hon. Babatunde Ayeni, his predecessor, but met a brick wall with the Methodist Church of Nigeria opposing the proposal.

However, the lawmaker, in his mission to improve the condi on of the hospital and the commercial acvi es of Ijesaland, said he employed a poli cal moves to reintroduce the bill with the support of sympathe c Colleagues in the Na onal Assembly.

A copy of the statement made available obtained

by OSUN DEFENDER reads partly: “One of the efforts to enhance development of Ijesaland at the Legislave level is the push for the upgrade of the century old Wesley Guild Hospital, Ilesa,to a Federal Medical Center (FMC).

“The agita on gained higher trac on during the Legisla ve term of Hon. Babatunde Ayeni when a public hearing was conducted on the bill proposing the upgrade of the hospital.

“However, the Methodist Church of Nigeria’s opposi on to the proposal for the upgrade of the foremost hospital has never been hidden, instead, the Church is posi vely disposed to recovering the ownership and control of the Wesley Guild Hospital in a bid to transform it to the Teaching hospital of her Ondo based Wesley University.

“Nevertheless, the avalanche of benefits derivable from having an FMC in Ijesaland which includes but not limited to improvement of commercial ac vi es, enhanced social and medical service delivery, direct and indirect job opportunies and lots more.

“As the tenth Assembly was inaugurated, I employed de poli cal moves to reintroduce the bill with the support of sympathe c Colleagues in the Na onal Assembly.

“Today, I am short of the right adjec ve to describe my feelings, but as your representa ve I must

report to Ijesas worldwide that while the bill was entering the final stage preparatory to the Presiden al assent, the representa ves of the Methodist Church, Nigeria, has once again threw “spanners into the into wheel” of the Federal Medical Centre Ilesa bill with a: No! No!!.

“The consequence of their ac on is that the proposed bill may not enjoy the overwhelming support of the cons tuents, which is a prerequisite for its progress. Whereas, with the passage of the bill and the consequent assent of Mr President, Ijesaland through the FMC will forth-

•Wesley Guild Hospital, Ilesa

with share from the humongous federal health budget, which will begin with massive construc on, that will boost the economy of the Cons tuents and open up Ijesa land to more Professionals.

“FMC, Ilesa will also impact our people in the area of job crea on and

employment opportunies, improved and prompt health service delivery and by extension increased life expectancy rate.

“Truth be told any attempt to recover Wesley Guild Hospital Ilesa from the Federal Government of Nigeria must of necessity incorporate the reversal of

•Omirin

16 Years After Losing Eyesight To Police Torture, Osun Student Cries For Help •Says Police Disobey Court Ruling, Refuse To Pay N20m Compensation Yusuf Oketola HE Nigeria Police Force has refused to pay a N20million compensaon to Adebayo Olaide, despite a court ruling in 2013 and 2014 which mandated the police authori es.

This followed an incident where Olaide, a then student of Osun State College of Educa on, Ilesa was brutalised by 11 police officers at a checkpoint in Odo Oba, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, on June 25, 2009.

The a ack led to permanent damage to his eyesight.

OSUN DEFENDER gathered that on June 25, 2009, Adebayo Olaide was

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•Olaide

stopped by 11 police officers at a checkpoint in Odo Oba, Ogbomoso, Oyo State.

Despite his coopera on, he was accused of looking at the officers, which led to his brutal assault.

“I can passively acknowledge that I was just smiling and looking at the trailer coming for him to pass, then I could take my leave,” Adebayo recounted.

“I was s ll smiling with them, joking together, when one officer hit me in the face with his gun. This incident le me with severe injuries, including damage to my eyes.”

Following the incident, Adebayo’s family rushed him to the hospital, where he spent 18 months recovering.

“Unfort u n a t e l y, one of my eyes is completely damaged, and I’m now totally blind. This has significantly i m p a c te d my ability to care for my three children,” Adebayo said.

Despite mul ple appeals, including three appearances before the Naonal Assembly in 2022 and 2023, the family has not seen any ac on from the police.

The Chairman of the Pe ons Commi ee at the Na onal Assembly granted their pe on, ordering the Nigerian police to pay the compensa on.

However, the police have failed to comply with the order.

“We’ve appeared before the Na onal Assembly three mes in 2022/2023 but the Nigerian police refuse to respond,” the family said.

“The Chairman of the Pe ons Commi ee at the Na onal Assembly has granted our pe on, ordering the Nigerian police to pay the compensa on, but we’ve received no response because we lack effec ve representa on.”

“Furthermore, my brother has been kidnapped mul ple mes, and we have evidence to support these claims. Unfortunately, our lawyer has been uncooperave, ci ng financial demands that we cannot meet.

“We humbly appeal for your interven on in this ma er. We seek jus ce, compensa on, and protecon for my brother. We believe that your influence and support could help bring atten on to this case and en-

sure that jus ce is served.

“We would be grateful for any assistance or guidance you can provide. The power of a orney was used to deceive my blind brother into signing a document, attemp ng to claim the en re compensa on amount for himself. However, I’m glad I was smart enough to catch them in the act. Since then, our lawyer has stopped responding to our calls,” the brother to the vic m added.

WNBC/WNTV, Liberty stadium, Ahmadu Bello University, Obafemi Awolowo University and other public ins tu ons annexed and gaze ed alongside WGH in 1975 by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

“From the above analysis, it should be clear to every discerning mind that Ijesaland is a stone throw from winning a Federal Medical Centre, and it is expedient for all hands to remain on the plough.”

Omirin however appealed to Ijesa leaders of thought, poli cal and religious leaders to prevail on the ma er and see to the actualisa on of the bill.

He said: “I therefore, appeal to Ijesa Leaders of thought, poli cal and religious leaders of all persuasions, top Bureaucrats and Technocrats, Ijesa organized groups and youth organiza ons to prevail on all antagonists of the lo y medical ins tu on to think about the strategic interest of Ijesaland in the context of the Presiden al assent that will berth the training ins tu on in Ijesaland and will ensure the maximum u liza on of the decaying and the dwindling fortune of Wesley Guild Hospital.

“The ul mate approval of the medical centre will compensate for the aggregate efforts of the past Minister of Health, Prof.

Isaac Adewole, past and present CMDs of OAUTH who though are not Ijesa but share the sweet story of the dream FMC in Ijesaland.

“In unison, let’s start envisioning the celebra on mood that will follow the upgrade of Wesley Guild Hospital to a full-fledged Federal Medical centre and so shall it be by God’s mercy.”

Photo News

•Pastor Mrs and Professor Emmanuel Ogolo with the celebrant Senior Apostle Olusola Ìbùkún during his 91st celebration at the weekend in Osogbo

FRIDAY, APRIL 04, 2025 - THURSDAY, APRIL 10, 2025

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News

Omoluabi Progressives Stakeholders Pledge To Consolidate Membership Mobilisation Drive Yusuf Oketola TAKEHOLDERS of Omoluabi Progressives in Osun State have pledged to consolidate on its membership mobilisa on drive.

The stakeholders made the assurance at the monthly mee ng of the tendency recently.

In a statement by the Organising and Publicity Secretary of Omoluabi, Oluwaseun Abosede, all stakeholders unanimously agreed to work on the resolu ons of the just concluded Stakeholders and Leadership Conference in becoming more united, stronger, determined, and focused res ng on the goal of ONE FOR ALL and ALL FOR ONE. The mee ng was a ended by the immediate-past Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.

Speaking at the meeting, leaders of the tendency, Alhaji Moshood Adeo , a former Secretary to the State Government and Dr Najeem Salaam, former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, commended members for their connuous loyalty to the vision and mission of Omoluabi Progressives.

Reassuring that their efforts will not be in vain, the duo of Adeo and Salaam reiterated the need for members to con nuously a ract people of conscience, character, integrity and firm belief in the progressive ideology to the fold.

“We cannot but commend your resilience, sacrifice, and efforts so

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far that have con nued to give us the remarkable success that we have made in the last one and

half years. We have a long way to go, and the only way to achieve success in the long run is by being

steadfast and resilient.

We should also be disciplined and seek the face of God for the success of

•Member of Omoluabi Progressives at their monthly stakeholders meeting last Sunday

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•Egbedun

Adesiji emphasised the need for members to be more dedicated to the tendency.

Adesiji hinted that with various programmes and ini a ves, the fold has posi oned itself as one that is ready to provide responsible leadership, premised on a people-centric approach.

The former council chairman also expressed the readiness of the tendency to reclaim the state in 2026, calling on members to redouble their mobilisa on efforts.

New members of Omoluabi Progressives from Odo-O n, Atakunmosa West, and Obokun local government areas of the state were also officially received at the mee ng.

Teachers’ Recruitment: Human Rights Group Faults Adeleke Over Delay In Appointment Letters Yusuf Oketola

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nongovernmenta l organisa on, the Commi ee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has expressed disappointment on the administra on of Governor Ademola Adeleke over the prolonged delay in the issuance of appointment le ers to the shortlisted candidates for the 2024 teachers’ recruitment in the state.

CDHR in a le er dated April 8, 2025, signed by its chairman in Osun State, Comrade Emmanuel Olowu and addressed to Governor Adeleke and the Ministry of Educa on, said the delay is

having a nega ve impact on the educa on system of Osun Stae, as the vacancies remain unfilled, resul ng in increased workload for the already exis ng staff.

Olowu urged the government to take prompt ac on to alleviate the situa on by immediately alloca ng appointment le ers to all qualified applicants, adding that the deployment of ‘Imole Youth Corps’ to teach in public schools may cause damage to the future of children in the state considering the technical skill of teaching.

The human rights group however issued a 5-day ul matum to the state government to con-

clude the process.

A copy of the le er made available to OSUN DEFENDER on Wednesday reads, “We write to address the long-overdue alloca on of appointment le ers to qualified applicants who par cipated in the recent teachers recruitment exercise conducted by the Osun State Government under your administra on.

“Your Excellency Sir, On February 16th, 2024, you approved the immediate recruitment of Five Thousand (5,000) teachers for both Primary and Secondary Schools and Two Hundred and Fi y (250) educaon officers in Osun State.

“The recruitment process involved the sale of applica on forms for the sum

How Multi Doors Court Will Promote Justice In Osun – Assembly Latifat Bello HE Osun State House of Assembly says the proposed Osun State Mul Door Court Establishment Bill would promote jus ce among the ci zens of the state.

This was disclosed by the Lawmaker B o r i p e / B o l u w a d u ro Cons tuency, Hon

our goal,” they said.

Earlier in hi remark, Chairman, Omoluabi Progressives, Alhaji Azeez

Olufemi Popoola while enumera ng the Policy Thrust of the Bill at plenary on Tuesday.

According to him, the proposed bill aimed mely administra on of jus ce in the state, adding that if passed into law would minimize ci zens frustra on to get Jus ce and prevent injus ce in the state.

The minority leader maintained that the proposed bill would enhance free hearing and allow access to Jus ce across the State.

In their separate contribu ons, the Lawmakers maintained that the bill would make the Judiciary to robust and more effec ve while urging the House to

give the it accelerated passage for the development of the state.

Also, they agreed that the bill would enhance access to Jus ce among the ci zens and promote growth and development.

However, the House later dissolved into Commi ee of the Whole for further considera on of Osun State Property Protec on Bill 2025 while all amendments and correc ons made to form part of the Bill under considera on.

In another development, the Speaker of the House, Hon Adewale Egbedun unveiled three Private members sponsored Bill by the

Chairman Osun State House of Assembly Commi ee on Judiciary, Human Right and Public Pe ons Hon Kanmi Ajibola intended to become Law. The Lawmaker who also represen ng Oriade State Cons tuency in the Assembly maintained that the bills are for the development of the state.

These including Osun State District Customary Courts and Customary Courts Establishment (Amendment)Bill 2025,Osun State Customary Court of Appeal Establishment (Amendment)Bill 2025 and Osun State Bail Discre on Bill 2025 respec vely.

of Two Thousand Naira (₦2000.00k), which thirtytwo thousand (32,000) applicants registered for.

Twenty-nine thousand (29,000) applicants accessed the internet for the examina on, while TwentySeven thousand (27,000) applicants wrote the examina on properly.

“It should be noted that the applica on lasted for two weeks, specifically from February 16th to February 30th, 2024, and Thirty-Two Thousand (32,000) applicants applied in just two weeks, which points to the unemployment rate in the state.

“The examina on to examine the applicant was held on the 27th and 28th of March, 2024, and on the 17th of April, 2024, the examina on result was released and an interview for shortlisted candidates was conducted from Monday, September 9th to Friday, September 13th, 2024.

“However, despite the aforemen oned meline, the process has been delayed for an extended period, stretching to approximately thirteen (13) months, with no clear communica on regarding the alloca on of appointment le ers to the successful candidates.

“This delay has had a nega ve impact on the educa on system of Osun State, as the vacancies remain unfilled, resul ng in increased workload for the already exis ng staff and contribu ng to nega vely to the overall output of Osun educa on..

“We appreciate your effort to have properly broken all odds to approve

the full implementa on of the Teachers Enlonga on policy in Osun State, which the beneficiaries are presently suppor ng the existing teaching workforce in the state.

“People of Osun State and is unacceptable because the educa on sector is presently suffering while the poten al and eagerness of the successful applicant to contribute to the educa onal advancement of the state has been jeopardized.

“We also will like to draw your a en on to the use of Imole Youth Corps in lieu of the professionally trained teachers in our schools, they are mostly untrained and will cause more damage to the educa on of our children. This abberraon should be stopped immediately sir “The Osun State Government must take prompt ac on to alleviate the situaon by immediately allocating appointment le ers to all qualified applicants. This will ensure that the educaonal system receives the necessary support in terms of qualified teaching personnel, thereby preventing further disrup ons and inefficiencies in the public schools across the state.

“We, therefore, urge you to immediately compel the Ministry of Educa on to release the appointment le ers within the next five (5) days, swi ly to ensure that the educa on system of the state is not further compromised.

“We thank you for your a en on to this ma er and we look forward to your prompt response and posive ac on.”

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Sport

UCL: Thierry Henry Exposes I’ll Never Stop Being Grateful – Barcelona’s Major Weakness, Names Cristiano Ronaldo Reacts To Death Of Man Who Discovered Him Most Difficult Team To Beat

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RSENAL legend, Thierry Henry has named Barcelona as the most difficult team to beat in the Champions League this season.

Henry also exposed Barcelona’s major weakness in the Champions League this term.

The Frenchman spoke a er Barcelona’s 4-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League quarter-final first leg e at Camp Nou on Wednesday.

Goals from Robert Lewandowski (2) and a goal each from Raphinha and Lamine Yamal gave the Catalan club the victory over the Bundesliga side.

Speaking on CBS Sports, Henry pinpointed that Barcelona tend to give their opponents too many opportunies to score because of their ‘high line’.

He also insisted that Hansi Flick’s side are the favourite to win the Champions League this season.

“They are outstand-

ing,” Henry said.

“De Jong and Pedri in midfield, it is outstanding what they are doing.

“At mes, though, they leave too many opportuni es for the opposi on to score goals. Other than that, they are magnificent. “[Previously] I said

they were one of the favourites, if not the favourite, to win [the Champions League tle].

“For me, they are a team that are very difficult to beat. They can stop a counter. But I s ll do think, with the high line, at mes they can be a bit exposed.”

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OOTBALL legend, Cris ano Ronaldo, has reacted to the death of Aurelio Pereira, Spor ng CP’s former head of recruitment.

The former football chief, who passed away at the age of 77, discovered Cris ano Ronaldo.

Aurelio founded Spor ng CP’s recruitment and training department in 1988 in a bid to unearth the best

talent in the country.

Apart from Ronaldo, he founded 10 players in the Portugal squad that won Euro 2016.

Ronaldo, understandably, was saddened by the news of the scout’s death.

Ronaldo, now 40 and plays in Saudi Arabia, took to Instagram to pay homage to Aurelio.

“One of the greatest symbols of world train-

ing has le us, but his legacy will live on forever.

“I will never stop being grateful for everything he did for me and for so many other players.

“Un l forever, Mr. Aurélio, thank you for everything. Rest in peace,” wrote Ronaldo.

Aurelio was aarded the Medal of Spor ng Merit by the City of Lisbon in 2017.

News NGO Takes Family Planning Campaign To Osogbo Community Kazeem Badmus

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Non Governmental Organisa on, The Challenge Ini a ve (TCI), has reiterated the benefits of family planning to healthy living.

The NGO harped on benefit of child spacing during a campaign tour to Ayepe community in Osogbo Local Government Arae of Osun.

During the campaign, the TCI family planning mobilisers sensi sed residents in the community, especially women on the benefits of family planning for their well being.

Lead by one Mr Gboyega Adeshina, the team said that the essence of the campaign was to sensi se women on benefits of child spacing in face of

the present economic situa on in the country.

Adeshina said Family planning empowers individuals and couples to make informed choices about their reproduc ve health, including when and how many children to have, through methods like contracep on and addressing infer lity Adeshina, who noted

Rival Cultists Wreak Havoc...

•Continued from Page 4 firmed.

School Shut Down, Matricula on Postponed Reac ng to the unrest, the polytechnic’s management ordered all students to proceed on a one-week mid-semester break, star ng Thursday, April 10, 2025.

The Registrar, Abiodun Oloyede, in a memorandum dated April 9, 2025, also announced the indefinite postponement of the matriculaon ceremony earlier scheduled for Thursday.

Students were urged to use the break to pay

outstanding fees and finalise their registra on, with the management warning that no further appeal shall be entertained.

The internal memo stated: “Given the pleas and appeals received from some set of students who have not been able to pay their school’s fees and have not completed their registra on formali es, Management has magnanimously granted a one week mid-semester break from Thursday, April 10 to Wednesday, April 16, 2025.

“This is to allow all

defaul ng students to pay their school fees and complete their registraon procedure. Consequently, the Matriculaon Ceremony for the 2024/2025 Academic Session, earlier scheduled to hold tomorrow, Thursday, April 10 2025, has been postponed.

“A new date shall be announced in due course. All students are therefore enjoined to avail themselves of this break and pay all their fees and complete their registra on as no further appeal shall be entertained.”

that they had been engaging on the family campaign in Osogbo local government in the last three years, said that the campaign had yielded posi ve results.

According to him, family planning is for the effec ve management of the home and the wellbeing of women.

He, however, urged men to always support their wives to take up family planning methods, adding that family planning

does not in may way make women to be promiscuous has been speculated.

“This orienta on that men have that women become promiscuous a er taking up family planning method is not correct.

“We are talking to our men to support our women to take up family planning.

“We are educa ng our men that family planning is to ensure that there is peace, understanding and collabora on between

husband and wife.

“Family planning allows for peace in the home and not a licence for women to be promiscuous” he said.

On the success rate of the campaign, Adeshina said it had recorded 80 per cent Successes.

He urged women who were yet to take any of the family planning methods to do so to enable to give birth to number of children they could adequately take care of.

ISSN : 0794 - 8050

Sport

FRIDAY, APRIL 11, 2025 - THURSDAY, APRIL 17, 2025 VOL. 20 NO 14 www.osundefender.com, email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com

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HE strength of any state lies not just in its natural resources or poli cal leadership, but in the collec ve determinaon of its people. Osun State, blessed with rich cultural heritage, agricultural poten al, and a resilient popula on, stands at a crucial point in its development journey.

The ques on is no longer what the government alone can do, but what we—local businesses, everyday ci zens, and community leaders—can do to drive growth and build a stronger, more prosperous Osun.

In recent years, Osun has experienced both challenges and opportuni es. From economic fluctua ons to infrastructure needs, the state’s development trajectory has required more than poli cal will—it has needed grassroots engagement. And while federal alloca ons and state policies play their part, the heartbeat of Osun lies in the hands of its people.

Every trader at Owode-Ede market, every cocoa farmer in Ilesa, every fashion designer in Osogbo, and every young tech enthusiast in Ife represents a thread in the broader fabric of the state’s growth story.

Local businesses are at the core of Osun’s economy. They generate employment, foster innova on, and keep the local economy circula ng. From micro-enterprises like food vendors and ar sans to SMEs in agriculture, fashion, and services, these businesses are not just income sources—they’re growth engines.

When people buy “Made in Osun” products or patronize local markets instead of relying on goods trucked in from Lagos or Ibadan, they help keep money within the state. This economic recycling is key to strengthening internal revenue and reducing dependency on federal alloca ons.

Take, for example, the thriving e-anddye (adire) industry in Osogbo. Known for its ar stry and tradi on, adire produc on doesn’t just preserve cultural heritage—it supports families, trains youths, and creates value chains from co on farming to fashion exports.

If the state government and private investors can work hand-in-hand to support such industries with modern infrastructure, training hubs, and access to larger markets, Osun’s economy will witness a notable transforma on. But beyond government interven ons, it’s the patronage and pride of the local popula on that determines the survival of these industries.

Ci zens also play a cri cal role in shaping the des ny of Osun. Civic engagement, responsible ci zenship, and community parcipa on cannot be overstated. From keeping our neighborhoods clean and safe to parcipa ng in town hall mee ngs and vo ng responsibly, ci zens contribute to the social fabric of the state.

Growth is not just about GDP—it’s about quality of life, inclusivity, and collec ve progress. When people ac vely par cipate

“Building a stronger Osun doesn’t require grand gestures.

It starts with daily acts of responsibility, collaboration, and local pride. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a farmer, a teacher, a civil servant, or a student—you have a role to play. The future of Osun is not just in the hands of leaders in high offices; it’s in the homes, shops, schools, and farms across the state”

UCL: Thierry Henry Exposes Barcelona’s Major Weakness, Names Most Difficult Team To Beat P 7

PERSPECTIVE

By MATT. OLU OLOWOKERE Building A Stronger Osun: The Role Of Local Businesses And Citizens In State Growth in community development projects, volunteer in schools, or support local healthcare ini a ves, they help build a stronger and more united Osun.

Educa on and youth empowerment are areas where both local businesses and ci zens must step up. With a large youth popula on, Osun’s future depends on how well we prepare the next genera on. Schools alone cannot do it. Businesses can invest in mentorship programs, skill acquisi on centers, and internship opportuni es.

Ci zens can support local schools through PTA ini a ves, dona ons, and communityled literacy programs. When young people see that they are valued and that their future ma ers, they are more likely to stay, work, and innovate within the state rather than migrate in search of greener pastures.

Another key area is agriculture. Osun is

STRIKER

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richly endowed with arable land and favorable weather, yet many farmlands remain underu lized. Local farmers face issues like poor access to modern tools, lack of storage facili es, and difficulty reaching markets. But again, collabora on can spark change.

Entrepreneurs can create agro-tech startups to link farmers to buyers, develop storage solu ons, or provide mobile-based agricultural extension services. Ci zens can support local food produc on by buying directly from farmers or par cipa ng in coopera ve farming models. The more we strengthen the agricultural value chain, the more jobs we create, and the more foodsecure Osun becomes.

Tourism is another sleeping giant in Osun State’s economy. The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracts visitors from around the world. Yet,

local businesses and ci zens can do more to enhance the tourist experience.

Clean environments, reliable local guides, hospitality services, and cultural events can all contribute to building Osun as a tourist hub. With inten onal planning and investment, tourism can generate revenue, create employment, and promote the state’s cultural legacy.

Digital technology also offers new pathways for development. In towns like Ile-Ife and Iwo, young entrepreneurs are already exploring so ware development, digital marke ng, and online trading. These efforts need community support and structured programs.

If local businesses can provide internship openings or partner with hubs to sponsor tech boot camps, and ci zens create awareness about the digital economy, Osun can become a regional leader in tech innova on. In a me when remote work and e-commerce are booming, Osun has the chance to leapfrog development stages if it harnesses its youth’s digital poten al.

It’s important to acknowledge that state growth doesn’t happen overnight. It requires consistency, collabora on, and a clear vision.

While the government is tasked with enabling infrastructure—like good roads, healthcare, and electricity—the private sector and ci zens must build on that founda on.

There must be a mindset shi where we stop seeing development as the sole responsibility of poli cians and start seeing it as a shared mandate. As the African proverb says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

•Read full article on www.osundefender.com •Matt Olu OLOWOKERE (Engr) Past GM ORMA, Osun State

Striker is not the opinion of the Columnist featured above

great na on needs good people.

The defini on of a good person is easy: a person who will do to his/ her neighbours as he/she wants them to do unto him/her, and who would not do unto them as he/she wouldn’t want.

This is the soul of the 10 Commandments, all the way through to Sharia and the millions of laws, civil and criminal codes that we are stuck with today.

From just 10 Commandments by God to millions of laws by man the world is as unsafe as the me of Cain and Abel!

A good fellow will never covet or take what belongs to others – their valuables and their lives – much as he or she will not love other to take his or hers. However, yonder stands Lucifer “with his mean and hungry looks,” along with his mul tude of followers, in u er disobedience of God’s commandments! They are the reasons why man has mul plied God’s commandments a thousand fold. From civil crimes to arson, murder and treason, laws are made to take care of them. It is the founda on of civilisa on, rule of law and democracy.

The degree to which ci zens live in obedience to the rule of law, and punish infrac ons promptly and impar ally, is directly propor onal to the degree of peace and prosperity experienced by society. Laws are made to be obeyed, irrespec ve of forms of government. It is popular struggle that purifies poli cal and jus ce systems.

A me was when apartheid was legal, when slavery was legal and colonisaon was legal. 70 years ago, black peo-

Unpunished Crime Is Enemy Of Democracy ple could not vote in America despite the Declara on of Independence that “all men are created equal.” Ci zens have the courts available to challenge laws they feel are unjust and fight ll a more just system is obtained. However, once stabilised for every season, the role of government and the judicial system is to ensure speedy dispensa on of jus ce based on the Cons tu on – the rule of law.

Nigeria’s history of Cons tu onal and legal evolu on is as old as its age.

There are many areas crying for review and improvement but there are several se led civil and criminal posi ons, older even than Nigeria and as old as humanity and the 10 Commandments. Today, no one is in doubt about the law’s posi on on rape, the , arson, armed robbery, murder, fraud, kidnapping and terrorism. Why then are we helplessly overwhelmed today by relentless assault with these men oned vices?

Although Hannah Arendt said “no punishment has ever possessed enough power of deterrence to prevent the commission of crimes,” which is a clear recogni on of the power of the devil as men oned earlier, any elite in government, however weak and in moral deficit, must s ll mind Joseph Story’s words, that “without jus ce being freely, fully and impar ally administered, neither our persons, nor our rights, nor our proper es, can be protected. And if these, or either of them, are regulated

by no certain laws, and are subject to no certain principles, and are held by no certain tenure, and are redressed, when violated, by no certain remedies, society fails of all its values; and men may as well return to a state of savage and barbarous independence.” A state we are rapidly sliding into in Nigeria but must twice as rapidly retreat from.

The solu on lies in the courage of the best of our elites, few as they are, especially the top echelon of the judiciary, to set a powerful new tone, with powerful new examples. The laws available are more than enough to serve them in a Nigeria era when it seems like it is a crime to punish big crimes! “The Cons tu on is what the judges say it is,” said Charles Evans Hughes; and Andrew Johnson said “All the rights secured to the ci zens under the cons tu on are worth nothing, and are mere bubbles, except guaranteed to them by an independent and virtuous judiciary.”

Self-help and jungle jus ce are symptoma c of a failing policing and jus ce system in which majority no longer have confidence because of a litany of unpunished crimes commi ed in full public glare (indisputable examples too many to men on here) - a clear danger to order, rule of law and democracy; a recipe for anarchy. The restora on of Nigeria needs many medicines: a major one is a resurrected judiciary, encouraged by elites fully aware of the mes and the scope of their historic mission.

OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Promise Point Building, Opposite Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State.

All correspondence to the Asst. News Editor, YUSUF OKETOLA, Telephone: 0809-301-9152. ISSN: 0794-8050.

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