Boundary Disputes: Adeleke, Makinde
Sue For Peace, Direct Deputies To Engage Warring Parties
Dearth Of Staff Hits Osun HealthcarePrimary Centres
•As Health Workers Overworked, Rely On Ad-Hoc
•Adeleke Yet To Employ Health Workers After Sacking Oyetola’s Recruits
•We Are Supplementing With ‘Imole Youth Corps’, To Recruit Health Workers Soon - Commissioner
•The Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, his Oyo State counterpart, Engr. Seyi Makinde with other delegates at the Southwest Congress of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in Ibadan, on Wednesday
Dearth Of Staff Hits Osun Primary Healthcare Centers
MOST of the Primary Healthcare Centers in Osun State are facing the challenges of shortage of staff, OSUN DEFENDER gathered.
The situa on, the medium learnt has led to work overload for the few health workers in the PHC, a development, one of the health workers described as unhealthy.
It would be recalled that the last administraon under former governor Gboyega Oyetola recruited some health workers at the twilight of his me as governor of the state.
Oyetola recruited the staff a er losing his re-elecon to the incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke, with many people, especially members of the Peoples Democra c Party, seeing it as a way of sabotaging the present administra on.
They queried why the former governor le it so late un l he lost his re-elecon before recrui ng staff, wondering if he would have made the appointment if he won that elec on.
Meanwhile, the health workers recruited by Oyetola were sacked by Governor Adeleke immediately he resumed office.
The governor in November 2022, through an Execu ve Order, terminated the appointment of the health workers, ci ng irregulari es in the recruitment process.
But since their sacking, the present administra on has not recruited new staff to join the already dwindling team.
OSUN DEFENDER gathered that the present administra on only recruited few ad-hoc staff to help those on ground.
Speaking with OSUN DEFENDER, a Primary Healthcare staff in Egbedore who does not want her name in print because she was not authorised to speak, said the situa on was becoming worrisome.
The Nurse said apart from the shortage of staff, the Primary Healthcare Centers were also facing the challenges of drug supplies.
“The truth is that we are silently suffering here. In this PHC, we have only four permanent staff with some trainees to a end to thousands of people. This is the only PHC in the town and we have about 16 communi es under the town.
“It gets overwhelming some mes that we have to do extra shi s. We’ve made several appeals to the concerned quarters but all we keep ge ng is that they will find a solu on to it.
“Another issue we are ba ling with here is insufficient drug supplies. The
•As Health Workers Overworked, Rely On Ad-Hoc
facility was recently given a faceli , and unfortunately, we don’t have enough drugs and other ameni es to work with here. I want to urge those in power to do something about it.”
A staff at a Primary Healthcare Center in Oriade Local Government while speaking with OSUN DEFENDER on phone also confirmed the situa on.
The Nurse said there were only two staff at the health center, no ng that the authori es ceased to post healthcare workers to the place a long me ago.
“We are two here and unfortunately, our bosses have refused to post health workers to this place. I’ve sent a lot of le ers and visited them countless mes but it is s ll the same.
“Even the ones they sent some months back found their way out because of the situa on of things here. We are extremely short of staff and we are also lacking ameni es”, the Nurse said.
A senior staff at the Primary Healthcare Board who spoke on condi on of anonymity for fear of inmida on confirmed the
shortage of healthcare staff to OSUN DEFENDER.
The staff said they’ve been managing the situaon with the ad-hoc staff recruited by the state government, adding that health workers are leaving the service every day without replacement.
“The truth of the matter is that we are seriously short of staff. The few ones
Osun APC Unfair To Late Adeniji – Group Decries
Yusuf Oketola
ACivil Society Group, Osun Democrats for Democracy (ODD) has decried what it described as “callous and shameful” treatment meted out to one of the prominent chie ains of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Lateef Adeniji, who was abducted and later released dead under suspicious and tragic circumstances.
The civil society noted that the APC’s a tude throughout the crisis revealed a deep-seated disregard for the welfare of even its own members, especially those from the ancient city of Ile-Ife.
ODD in a statement on by its Director of Operaons, Adeyefa Adeyemo, described the conduct of the Osun APC as “inhuman, detached, and unbefi ng of a poli cal party that claims to represent the people.”
A copy of the statement obtained by OSUN DEFENDER yesterday reads, “The APC’s negligence during and a er the kidnapping of Hon. Adeniji, the Na onal Admin Director of the APC Secretariat and a notable Ife son, exposes their true character and systemic indifference to human lives.
“Hon. Adeniji was re-
portedly kidnapped 2 months ago under circumstances that demanded an immediate and coordinated response from the leadership of his party.
“Instead of prompt acon and public concern, the APC hierarchy maintained a “lackadaisical and indifferent posture,” failing to raise an alarm or engage security opera ves in a meaningful way un l Ife community leaders began to mount pressure.
“It is deeply disturbing that it took widespread condemna on and a public outcry from Ife elders and
concerned stakeholders before the APC leadership in Osun State s rred into mo on.
“It was only a er prominent voices in Ile-Ife began to call them out that they began to act. For a man of Hon. Adeniji’s stature to be treated this way, both in life and in death, speaks volumes about the insensivity and internal decay in the opposi on.
“Even more appalling, was the false narra ve peddled by APC leaders a er Hon. Adeniji’s lifeless body was reportedly discovered. The corpse was found by
security agencies on Monday, yet rather than acknowledging the grim reality, the APC went ahead to decei ully announce that he had been released.”
Adeyemo noted that, “this act of deliberate misinforma on was not only reckless but also cruel. How could a poli cal party, knowing full well that their official had been found dead, boldly declare him released and safe? It was a propaganda gone too far, showing how poli cs has overtaken basic decency within the APC ranks.”
available are overwhelmed with work. The board is trying to manage everything to have op mum service delivery but it is not easy.
“In a Primary heath centre where we supposed to have 10 staff and some adhoc, we only have four staff and these four people are the ones doing the work of 10 persons.
“Our PHC urgently needs staff, and I don’t know how best to put it to make the authori es see the need for more staff Some of our staff have le because of the overload. It is killing and I’m urging the state government to do something about it.
“The health workers recruited under former governor Gboyega Oyetola were sacked by the present administra on. I have no problem with that but I expected Adeleke to do the needful since he was the one who sacked those recruited. We have a lot of graduates outside there without jobs.”
When contacted, the state Commissioner for Health, Barr. Jola Akintola said the reason for the shortage of staff was because for 12 years, health workers were re ring without replacements.
The Commissioner noted that health professionals among the newly recruited ‘Imole Youth Corps’ have been deployed to PHCs in their respec ve local governments.
Barr. Akinola said the Ministry has go en approval to recruit health workers to the PHCs, adding that the exercise will commence very soon.
According to him, “It took three long days before the same opposi on party retracted its earlier claims and finally admi ed that Hon. Adeniji had been murdered. This delay in conveying the truth was a betrayal not just of the deceased but also of his grieving family, the Ife community, and the general public that had been praying and hoping for his safe return.”
He said such dishonourable conduct further alienates Osun APC from the people it seeks to govern.
He said, “We have about 814 PHCs in the state, at least, as at the last count. Out of these, we have 332 focal centers, one per ward. Relavely, no one can complain of shortage of Health workers in these focal PHCs.
•Late Adeniji
“How can a party that cannot stand up for its own leaders, that cannot mobilize immediate response when a top administrator is abducted, and that shamelessly misleads the public in the face of death, be trusted with the welfare of the people?” he quesoned.
“As regards the nonfocal PHCs, well we have shortage of staff owing to the fact that for 12 years, workers were rering and they were not replaced. That has also been addressed now, as nurses, CHEWS, JCHEWS and other health professionals/workers among the newly recruited/employed Imole Youths have been deployed to our PHCs in their respec ve local government areas.
“We have arranged to train them and to be retraining them from me to me.
Apart from this, I can assure you that we have go en approval to recruit health workers to the PHCs. The exercise will commence very soon.”
•The Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Adewale Egbedun welcoming Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) RS II, Corps Commander Taofeek Adeyemi Sokunbi with his team to the Assembly Complex on Monday
Kazeem Badmus
FRIDAY, APRIL 18, 2025 - THURSDAY, APRIL 24, 2025
Issues & Policy
Nothing To Be Gained From Declaration Of State Of Emergency
By Eric Teniola
THE first head of government that declared a state of emergency in Nigeria was the then Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa (December 1912 – 15 January 1966) and that was in May 1962. I was a student then at Olofin Anglican Grammar School in Idanre in Ondo state, along with Folu Olami , Prince Wale Olateru-Olagbegi, Olu Adegboro, Feyi Famu mi(75) and others.
He declared the state of emergency on Western Region which now comprises of South-West and parts of South-South.
The crisis was an internal affairs in the then region which later consumed the whole country.
The crisis of the Ac on Group reared its ugly head at the party’s annual conven on held in Jos, Plateau in January 1962 like a joke. It was at the conven on that the General Secretary of the party, Chief Ayotunde Rosiji (1917-2000) resigned and Mr. Samuel Goomsu Ikoku (1912-1997) took over as the Chief Scribe of the party. Chief Anthony Eromosele Enahoro (1923-2010) became the deputy leader of the party. Mr. Ikoku had earlier defeated his father, Dr. Alvan Ikoku by 59 votes in the Eastern Nigeria House of Assembly elec on.
The 8th conven on of the party was held in African Sports Club in Jos with Chief Ajibola Idowu Ige,SAN(1930-2001) elected publicity Secretary of the party and with Professor Samuel Adepoju Aluko(19292012), Prof. Hezekiah Adedunmola Oluwafemi Oluwasanmi (1919-1983), Prof. Victor Adenuga Oyenuga(1917-2010),Chief Arthur Edward Prest(1906-1976), Prof. H.E. Ajose, Dr. Sanya Dojo Onabamiro (1913-1985) and Prof. Akinlawon Ladipo Mabogunje (18 October 1931 – 4 August 2022),in a endance.
At the conven on, the then leader of the party, Chief Obafemi Awolowo (19091987) was on one side, while the Premier of the Western Region at the me, Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola (1912-1966) was on another side. The crisis snowballed into a major na onal crisis, the consequences of which we s ll face today.
Before the declara on of State of emergency, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa had issued a press statement on May 22, 1962. In the statement, he declared “the two facons in the Ac on Group have contacted the Prime Minister regarding the holding of another mee ng of the Western Nigeria house of assembly today. The Prime Minister cannot stop the mee ng from taking place, but because of the fight which has broken out in the house this morning, if the par es decide to hold a mee ng of the house of assembly they may do so. It may be on the strict understanding that there will be no police protec on within the chamber. If, however, any party insists on being afforded police protec on within the chamber the police may be so present, but the federal government will not accept ant decision reached as a result of such proceedings in the chamber. If in spite of all efforts of the police there should be an outbreak of violence or any disorder, the police have authority to clear the chamber
“No responsible Government of the Federation could allow an explosive situation such as that which now exists in Western Nigeria to continue without taking adequate measures to ensure that there is an early return to the Region of peace, order and good Government.”
and lock up”.
Despite this clarifica on, no solu on was found to the Western region crisis, in fact the situa on became more tensed. However, the logis cal problems of the army, which was transferring most of its ba alion between the Congo and home depots, a token number of troops and armoured vehicles went to Ibadan to back up the police if necessary. The GOC of the army (General Welby-Everard) caused an administra ve sensa on by moving his taccal headquarters to Ibadan and se ng up a joint ‘pol-mil’ HQ with the Inspector General of Police Sir Kerr Bovell(1913-1973). It was unprecedented. Some AG members asked Chief Anthony Enahoro to go abroad to tell the world of a threat to democracy.
On May 29, 1962, then Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa (1912-1966) summoned an emergency mee ng of the Federal House of Representa ves which was then the Federal Parliament in Lagos during which he moved a mo on on the Ac on Group crisis. The full mo on is hereby reproduced and the reply of the then opposi on leader, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. The moon reads thus:” I rise to move the Resoluon standing in my name which reads as follows:”That in pursuance of sec on sixtyfive of the cons tu on of the Federa on, It is hereby declared that a state of public emergency exists in Western Region and that this resolu on shall remain in force un l the end of the month of December, nineteen hundred and sixty-two.”
“Members know the reasons why Parliament has reassembled to-day. For the past week or so there has been no properly cons tuted Government in Western Nigeria. I would like to recapitulate briefly the events which have led to this impasse and in doing so I would like to emphasise that the Federal Government had been mo vated solely by the desire to ensure that peace, order and tranquility are maintained throughout parts of the Federa on.
“ A poli cal crisis developed within the Ac on Group which was the party in control of the Government of Western Nigeria. Following the crisis the Na onal Execu ve of the party deposed Chief Akintola as Deputy Leader and asked him to resign his appointment as Premier of Western Nigeria. On the 20th of May, the Premier advised the Governor of Western Nigeria that in view of the poli cal crisis which had been developed in the Region and of the rival claims of the two fac ons to a majority support of the electorate in the Region His Excellency should exercise his powers under sec on 31 of Part III of the Constu on of Western Nigeria to dissolve the Legisla ve House of the Region. The Governor refused.
“On the same day the Premier asked the Speaker, for the same reasons, to convene the Western House of Assembly for Wednesday, May 23rd to consider and pass a Mo on for a vote of confidence in the Government of Western Nigeria but the Speaker also refused. The following day the Governor purported to exercise the
powers vested in him by sec on 33(10) of the cons tu on of Western Nigeria set out in the Fourth Schedule to the Nigeria Cons tu on Order-in-Council 1960 and purported to remove Chief Akintola from his office as Premier of Western Nigeria with effect from the 21st of May. Chief Akintola thereupon filed a Mo on in the High Court challenging the power of the Governor to remove him from office in the manner he did. The ma er is s ll before the court for determina on.
“The Governor, nevertheless, proceeded to exercise the powers in normal circumstances vested in him by sec on 33(1) of the Cons tu on of Western Nigeria by purpor ng to appoint Chief D.S. Adegbenro to be Premier of Western Nigeria with effect from the 21st of May. A mee ng of the Western House of Assembly was summoned for the 25th of May.
“As Members know, two unsuccessful a empts were made on that day to hold mee ngs of the Western House of Assembly; the first one ended in a violent uproar and disorder. The police had no alterna ve but to use tear gas to disperse all Members, but before then the House had become a shambles. I was then approached by one side to the dispute to allow the Nigeria Police to guard the Chamber of the Western House of Assembly so that another meeting could be held, this me, in the House of Chiefs which was to be used as the House of Assembly. The other side almost immediately warned that it would be unwise and risky to allow such further mee ng to be held. Before the a empt to hold a second mee ng I felt impelled to issue the following release: “The two fac ons in the Ac on Group have contacted the Prime Minister regarding the holding of another mee ng of the Western Nigeria House of Assembly today. The Prime Minister cannot stop the mee ng from taking place but because of the fight which has broken out in the House this morning if the par es decided to hold a mee ng of the House of Assembly they may do so. It must be on the strict understanding that there will be no police protec on within the Chamber. If, however,
any party insists on being afforded police protec on within the Chamber the police may be so present, but the Federal Government will not accept any decision reached as a result of such proceedings in the Chamber. If in spite of all the efforts of the Police there should be an outbreak of violence or any disorder, the Police have authority to clear the Chamber and lock it up.”
“Shortly a er the release had been issued, I received a further report from the Inspector-General of Police that an a empt had been made to hold a mee ng under Nigeria Police protec on but that it has resulted in a far greater uproar and commoon than the earlier one. The Police therefore cleared the Chamber and locked it up.
“ In the a ernoon of the same day, May 25th, the Council of Ministers met to discuss the situa on. The same evening I made a na on-wide broadcast explaining the posi on of the Federal Government in the ma er, and in the course of any broadcast, I made the following observa on:
“No responsible Government of the Federa on could allow an explosive situaon such as that which now exists in Western Nigeria to con nue without taking adequate measures to ensure that there is an early return to the Region of peace, order and good Government.”
“I said a few moments ago that the past week or so there does not appear to have been any validly cons tuted Government in Western Nigeria. In the light of the violent incidents on May 25th which badly shattered both Houses of Assembly, it is difficult to see how the public affairs of the Western Region could possibly be carried on in an atmosphere of warring fac ons of a party in power so sadly rent asunder in the old world struggle that will ul mately do nobody any good inside and outside Western Nigeria. This is the background against which I ask honourable members to assess the situa on and to authorize the Government of the Federa on to take appropriate measures in accordance with the provisions of our cons tu on.
OSUN DEFENDER
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“Allega on of conspiracy have been made against the Federal Government, that it had planned the whole crisis in order to take over the Western Nigeria Government. It has also been said in certain quarters that this parliament would be abusing its powers were it to declare a state of emergency because the sad and unfortunate occurrences had not extended.
OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Promise Point Building, Opposite Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State.
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All correspondence to the above email addresses.
“Nothing could be rather from the truth. We are surely not responsible for the chain of events that led to the party and personal wrangles and the a empted
•Read full article on www.osundefender.com
•Eric Teniola, a former director at the Presidency, wrote from Lagos.
•Flashback to 1962... Obafemi Awolowo, Tafawa Balewa and the young Murtala Muhammed
Boundary
Disputes: Adeleke, Makinde Sue For Peace, Direct Deputies To Engage Warring Parties
OSUN State Governor Ademola Adeleke and his counterpart in Oyo State, Engr Seyi Makinde have waded into the incessant border clashes between Lagelu and Iwo local governments.
The governors, as part of efforts to curb any impending violence in the communi es, have launched a peace move ahead of the release of the report of the Na onal Boundary Commission.
OSUN DEFENDER reports that the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Adewale Akanbi, had during the weekend called on both governors to
wade in before the issue escalated into a communal crisis.
Several villages in Iwo local government have allegedly been attacked by some hoodlums from Lagelu local government while people from also alleged a acks from Iwo.
According to a statement by the spokesperson to Governor Adeleke, the two governors met over the dispute during the week and resolved on immediate ac ons which includes a direc ve to their depues to visit the areas involved in the dispute with the aim of finding a resolu on.
“The resolu on which was reached at the Ibadan residence
•The Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin, flanked by members of Action Committee on Prevention of Gender Based Violence Against Women and Children in Osun, at the Bi-monthly Accountability and Coordination meeting by ActionAid Nigeria in Collaboration with the State Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Social Welfare
of Governor Makinde emphasised the need for peaceful engage-
ment and resolu on of all outstanding issues, charging the Deputy
Wole Oke Slams Osun Govt For Believing Party Invaders Over Him
THE lawmaker represen ng Obokun/Oriade Federal Cons tuency, Hon Wole Oke has berated the Osun State Government for believing party invaders over him.
Oke, who is a Peoples Democra c Party lawmaker, said those who were not there while they were nurturing the party have been spewing all sorts of stories about him, adding that it was painful that the state government believed them.
Oke, in a 3-minute video, argued that he stayed behind in the party even when some people who have become governors and senators under the PDP le He also said he supported Governor Adeleke when he contested for the senate, adding that he nurtured and financed the party when others le
He said, “Yes, I’m a member of the Peoples Democra c Party, and I’ve been a member of the PDP since 1998, and I’ve never defected. Even when all the leaders who have been governors and senators defected from the party, I stayed behind because of my loyalty to the party, and I nurtured and financed the party to greatness.
“For clarity of purpose, for 12 years, I stayed behind in the party. I supported my incumbent Governor to become a Senator under the party. I offended so many people just because I wanted our party to capture power in the state.
“But today, what is the story. I’m the enemy of the government and the party. I doubt that because I s ll respect the chairman of the party, who is my own brother, Sunday Bisi, and my nominee to the state Excos, Prince Professor Ayodeji Ayoola.
“The purpose of nurturing this party is to enable my followers and con-
s tuents to also benefit from the government. To become chairmen of local governments, councillors, supers, secretaries to the local governments and all that.
“But what do I get in return? I’ve seen invaders who never knew how we started all these processes spewing all sorts of stories, and unfortunately, the government of the state is believing them, and that is the painful aspect of it.”
Oke while concluding the video, asked Nigerian for advise on what he should do concerning the situa on on the ground.
“I want all of you to advise me in a situa on where you are not trusted, where your opinion does not count, where your advice is not taken into considera on, and where you are undermined, please advise me; what do you think I should do?”, he asked.
Governors to meet leaders of Lagelu and Iwo communi es involved in the confronta on.
“The Deputy Governors are also to look into other related boundary disputes such as the recurring one between Orolu local government and Ogbomoso areas of the two states.
“Both governors called for restraints and cessa on of reported raids into each other’s territories by aggrieved par es, insis ng on due process
Art/Culture
The Heart Of Africa: A Journey Into Our Cultural Roots
AFRICA is o en re-
ferred to as the cradle of civiliza on — a land rich in tradi ons, history, and deeply rooted values. At the very core of this cultural heritage lies Osun State, a symbolic and spiritual heartland that con nues to preserve and promote some of the most profound aspects of African iden ty. In many ways, a journey into the cultural roots of Osun is a journey into the soul of Africa itself.
Osun State, located in the southwest region of Nigeria, is not just geographically central to Yoruba culture — it is a vibrant custodian of African tradi ons, rituals, and ar s c expressions. From its sacred groves to its colorful fesvals, from its deep oral histories to its rich tex le arts, Osun is a living museum of African heritage.
The state derives its name from the River Osun,
which holds not only ecological significance but also spiritual reverence, especially among adherents of the Yoruba religion and cultural historians worldwide.
One cannot begin to explore Osun’s cultural essence without recognizing the significance of the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled on the outskirts of Osogbo, the state capital, this sacred forest is a powerful symbol of tradi onal religion and spirituality. The grove is home to shrines, sculptures, and sanctuaries that celebrate Osun, the river goddess believed to embody purity, ferlity, and love.
Every year, thousands of people from across Nigeria and beyond gather for the Osun-Osogbo Fes val, a week-long celebra on filled with rituals, prayers, and cultural performances. The fes val not only reinforces spiritual connec on but also
strengthens communal identy and pride.
Beyond religion, Osun State is a beacon of African crea vity. The town of Osogbo has long been known as a hub of ar s c excellence. The Osogbo Art Movement, which gained prominence in the 1960s, brought together ar sts who combined tradi onal Yoruba mo fs with modern techniques. Pioneers like Twins SevenSeven, Rufus Ogundele, and Susanne Wenger helped establish Osogbo as a global name in African art.
Today, the legacy connues through galleries, workshops, and appren ceships that keep this ar s c tradi on alive, engaging the younger genera on and attrac ng cultural tourism.
Language, music, and dance also play essen al roles in preserving cultural roots. The Yoruba language, widely spoken across Osun, is not merely a tool of communica on but a vessel of wisdom, proverbs, and philosophy. Through tradi onal folktales, chants, and praise songs, elders pass down
and rule of law in conflict resolu on.
“The Na onal Boundary Commission had conducted media on visita on to the disputed areas to collate data from documentary and oral evidence to determine the exact boundary of the two states.
“The federal agency has, however, not released its report despite several follow up by the stakeholders, crea ng a vacuum being exploited by violated groups,” the statement added.
moral lessons and communal values to the youth. Yoruba drumming pa erns, like those of the talking drum (gangan), are not just rhythms but coded speech, capable of communica ng messages across distances.
In towns like Ede, Iwo, and Ife, cultural troupes and masquerades con nue to perform during fes vals, weddings, and community events, linking the present to the past in dynamic and celebratory ways.
Historically, Osun State has played a pivotal role in shaping Yoruba iden ty. The ancient city of Ile-Ife, regarded by many as the ancestral home of the Yoruba people, lies within Osun’s borders.
Mythology and oral tradions tell of Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba race, whose footsteps are believed to have first touched the soil of Ile-Ife. This sacred narra ve gives Osun a unique posi on as a custodian of Yoruba origin stories and spiritual cosmology. The ancient palaces, ar facts, and shrines of Ile-Ife con nue to a ract researchers, historians, and spiritual pilgrims from across Africa and the diaspora.
In the face of modernity, globaliza on, and changing social values, the ques on arises: how do we preserve
•Read full article on www.osundefender.com
Yusuf Oketola
Kazeem Badmus
Police Drag Man To Court Over N64,000 POS Fraud In Ile-Ife
A40-year-old man, Femi Oyatokun, has been dragged before an Osun State Magistrates’ Court, si ng in Ile-Ife for allegedly defrauding a Point of Sale (POS) operator of N64,000.
Oyatokun was ar-
raigned before the court on a two-count charge of stealing and fraud.
According to the prosecutor, Inspector Sunday Osanyintuyi, the defendant commi ed the offences on March 6 in Ile-Ife.
Osanyintuyi alleged that Oyatokun fraudulently obtained the
2026: Osun Ex-deputy Gov, Alabi Governorship Bid Divides APC
THE immediate past governor of Osun State, Gboyega Oyetola, and his deputy, Benedict Alabi, are at loggerheads over the la er’s decision to join the 2026 governorship race.
OSUN DEFENDER gathered that the announcement by the former deputy governor has caused a sharp division between the camp of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and the former deputy governor.
Alabi had, during a special service held at Saint Peter’s Catholic Church in Ile-Ife during the weekend, made the declara on.
Alabi, a member of the All Progressives Congress, APC, who hails from Ikire town, Irewole local government area, also stated that his decision was guided by divine instrucon and reflec on.
OSUN DEFENDER reports that there has been massive call by members and some chie ains of the All Progressives Congress for the governorship cket of the party to be zoned to the West Senatorial District.
The call, which has gained momentum, according to sources within the party, was championed by Oyetola with the aim of having the Managing Director/CEO of the Na onal Inland Waterways Authority, Bola Oyebamiji, as the candidate of the party.
The choice of who picks the cket of the party has divided members of the APC, with the Na onal Secretary of the party, Senator Ajibola Basiru, also interested in contes ng the governorship primary.
OSUN DEFENDER gathered that some party chie ains have already endorsed Oyebamiji as the next governorship candidate with many of them of the opinion that
Oyetola stands no chance against the incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke if he is given the cket.
But the announcement by Alabi has changed the mood in the camp of the Minister.
Speaking with OSUN DEFENDER, a member of the party within the camp of the former deputy governor who does not want his name in print, said his principal has every right and capacity to contest the cket.
The APC member said as a former deputy governor, Alabi should be considered as the governorship candidate provided that Oyetola is no longer interested in the governorship seat.
“My boss has every right to contest the cket, and going by his posi on as a former deputy governor, he should be the one to have the cket if Governor Oyetola is no longer interested.
“This is the me for Osun West and in the zone, Alabi is s ll the leader of all those who we know are eyeing the governorship cket.
“I don’t believe that Oyetola will be angry that his deputy showed interest in wrestling the state back from the PDP be-
sum of N64,000 from one Mr. Olalere Seyi, a POS operator, under the pretense of transferring the money into a Fidelity Bank account belonging to one Michael Sunday.
However, the prosecutor told the court that the complainant did not receive the balance in his account
a er the supposed transfer was made via the POS terminal.
The offences, Osanyintuyi noted, contravened Sec ons 390(9) and 419 of the Criminal Code, Laws of Osun State, 2002. Oyatokun, who had no legal representa on in court, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
But the Presiding Magistrate, Abosede Sarumi granted him bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sure es in like sum. She ordered that one of the sure es must be a property owner, both must reside within the court’s jurisdic on, and must show evidence of
three years of tax payment. The surees are also required to swear to an affidavit of means.
The prosecutor was directed to verify the addresses of the defendant and his sure es.
The case was adjourned un l May 28 for hearing.
•
cause there is a cordial rela onship between them and he should support his former deputy.”
But a member of the party within the Ilerioluwa camp said the decision of the former deputy governor to announce his interest is against what the party stands for.
The APC member said the party leadership has endorsed Oyebamiji as the governorship candidate, no ng that anyone coming out from the West Senatorial District to contest the cket is going against the party.
“Once the Minister makes it public that he is no longer interested in contes ng, which I think he will, the person we are suppor ng is Bola Oyebamiji.
“Any other person coming out to contest the cket, especially from the West Senatorial District, is was ng his me. I learnt Senator Mudashiru Hussain is also interested, I can tell you he will suffer the same fate.
“Alabi did not consult anyone within the Oyetola’s camp before going on to announce his interest. I don’t have an issue with him or any other person declaring their interest, but I can tell you that they will fail.”
Osun-Osogbo Grove Risks Delisting As UNESCO Site
THE Osun-Osogbo sacred grove risks being delisted as a world heritage site over the influx of land grabbers at the buffer zone of the grove, OSUN DEFENDER gathered. The grove is one of the sites recognised by the United Na ons Educa onal Scien fic and Cultural Organisa on (UNESCO).
It would be recalled that the Osun-Osogbo grove located in Osogbo, Osun state, was listed as UNESCO heritage site in 2005 a er the land was acquired and gaze ed by the Federal Government.
However, OSUN DEFENDER learnt that acvi es of land grabbers have seen residents encroaching into the sites, as many buildings have been built along the buffer zone of the grove.
The medium gathered that at one of the entrances of the grove, a hotel is presently being built with work reaching an advanced
stage as at the me of filing this report.
Speaking on the development, a tradionalists in Osogbo, Ogundeji Elebuibon, accused both the Naonal Museum and Monument, as well as prominent indigenes of the town of being lackadaisical over the ac vi es of the land grabbers.
According to Elebuibon, “The situa on at the grove is very unfortunate and one fears that if the development is not checked would not lead to the delisting of the grove as a UNESCO heritage site.
“The South entrance has been encroached completely with residen al buildings springing up in the area. And on a daily basis ,more areas are being cleared for new structures to emerge. Yet, govern-
ment at various levels, including local, state and the federal government, are just watching without taking any acon”.
Also, the Curator and Site Manager, Naonal Museum and Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, Aworeni Joseph opined that the agency is taking serious steps to check land grabbers ac vi es in the area.
According to him, “We are not lackadaisical about it. We are aware of the development, especially in the buffer zones around the grove, and steps are being taken to bring those involved to book. I was personally there to inspect the development, but we faced a lot of legal impediments to stop construc on work from con nuing in the areas.
•Alabi
Media practitioners in Osun State at a two-day Health Rights Capacity-building workshop on Wednesday
Yusuf Oketola
Kazeem Badmus
Yusuf Oketola
Electrity Act: Delay In Implementation Causing Hardship In Osun, NGO Writes Adeleke
AYusuf Oketola inadequate in addressing the electricity needs of Osun ci zens.
non governmental, nonprofit and civic-tech
ini a ve, Urban Alert has called on Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State to see to the domes ca on and implementa on of the Electricity Act 2023 in the state.
Urban Alert in an le er dated April 10, 2025 and addressed to Governor Adeleke by its Communica ons Associate,Ti lade Alayande said it is almost a year that the State Execu ve Council deliberated on the dra of the Osun State Electricity Market System Bill, but the House of Assembly has neither passed it nor assented by the Governor.
The organisa on noted that the delay in the implementa on of the bill has con nued to encourage corrup on and pain for the Osun people.
A copy of the letter obtained by OSUN DEFENDER reads, “On behalf of the people of Osun State, we respec ully urge Your Excellency to take intenonal and swi ac on towards domes ca ng the Electricity Act 2023 and u lizing the decentraliza on clause to establish a State Electricity Market and Regulatory Commission.
“Your Excellency, the current centralized electricity regulatory system under the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has unfortunately proven
“The weak enforcement of standards, arbitrary service prac ces, and poor consumer protec on mechanisms have le the Osun people in a cycle of darkness, economic hardship, and diminished produc vity.
“The inability to hold service providers accountable at the grassroots level con nues to cripple businesses and deepen frustra on across households.
“The Electricity Act 2023 offers a historic opportunity for states like Osun to take charge of their power des ny by crea ng a state-controlled electricity market, backed by a state-specific regulatory body.
•Alhaja Halid Temilade, the Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Children Affairs, with some 300 level Public Health students of Osun State University during their courtesy visit to her office, on Tuesday
“This reform empowers Your Excellency to lead Osun State into a new era of energy independence, economic revival, and social equity.
It is good to note that the State Execu ve Council mee ng deliberated on the dra of the Osun State Electricity Market System Bill on
the 15th of May 2024.
“However, almost one year later, the Osun State House of Assembly has neither passed the bill nor assented by Your Excellency.
Report Illegal Revenue Collectors To Police, Adeleke Tells Market Leaders
Yusuf Oketola
THE Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has tasked leaders of various markets in the state to report acvi es of those collec ng illegal revenue from them to the police.
Adeleke disclosed that the inten on of those involved in the act was to create an atmosphere of chaos in the state.
Osun State Government and the opposi on, All Progressives Congress, have been trading allegaons over the alleged appointment of revenue collectors by the chairman of Boripe Local Government Area.
While Adeleke directed the State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Umar Abba, to move against those collec ng revenue at local government areas, describing their ac vi es as illegal, the APC in a statement by its spokesperson, Kola Olabisi, demanded interven on of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun to stop the governor from stopping the LG chairmen from exercising their power to collect revenue in markets.
However, Adeleke, while addressing a stakeholders mee ng a ended by leaders of various market groups held at the Osun Government Secretariat, Abere on Tuesday, also advised the market leaders to report ac vi es of the
Man Bags One Year Jail Term For Stealing Nigeria Air Force Property In Osun
Jamiu Akintayo Latifa Bello
Asuspected burglar, Ibrahim Tunde has been sentenced to one year imprisonment by an Osun State Magistrates’ Court, si ng in Osogbo for stealing property belonging to the Nigeria Air Force.
The suspect was accused of breaking into the Nigeria Air Force Institute of Technology School of Basic and Remedial Studies and stole electrical wires and iron chairs worth millions of naira.
According to the charge sheet obtained
by OSUN DEFENDER
yesterday, the convict commi ed the offence between April 12 and 14, 2025.
According to the police, Tunde and others at large allegedly stole 20 pieces of iron chairs valued at ₦800,000 and 16 pieces of electrical wire worth ₦2,636,000.
He was convicted by Magistrate Odeleye a er pleading guilty to the four count charges bordering on conspiracy, burglary, and stealing leveled against him.
The Magistrates sentenced him to one year imprisonment with an opinion of ₦160,000 fine.
illegal revenue collectors to the State Commissioner for Commerce, the Special Adviser of Markets, and other relevant government officials.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Kola Adewusi, he further said, “Enemies of this state want to set the state on fire, but God will not allow that to happen to us. The main focus of this meeting is for you to follow the advice given to you by our commissioner, Special Adviser, and the officials of the Internal Revenue Service, so that some people would not defraud our market women.
“These people are already hungry and they are looking for ways to take public money, that is why these people are on the streets, collec ng illegal fees. I am happy today that today, we have shared ideas to stop the illegal act of these people. At this point, I advise our market leaders to be cauous. Those collec ng illegal fees won’t stop, their aim is to use the illegal collec on of revenue to cause chaos.
“But whenever we see those collec ng illegal revenue, let us report them to the police because our security personnel know what is right. Those collec ng illegal tolls may want to fight you, don’t fight back but let’s report them to the security men. They know what to do regarding issues like that.”
Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Markets, Eniola Omotoso, said members of the APC have been going around
the markets to demand payment of levies from the traders.
Omotoso, who urged the traders not to cooperate with unapproved revenue collectors, said, “I have asked those collecting the levies where are they remi ng the money? Anybody who comes to the market to issue a cket to you, chase him out of the market.
“Osun State government has made it known that no cket should be issued to traders in our market for now and no one is expected to come to you to ask you for money.”
But reac ng, Osun APC spokesperson, Mr. Kola Olabisi, said collec on of levies in markets is one of the func ons of the local government chairmen, adding that elected APC chairmen had acted within the ambit of the law by collec ng the levies.
Olabisi also said the party would not submit to in mida on from the state government, insis ng that chairmen elected on the pla orm of the party had been returned to office by the Court of Appeal, Akure Division in its judgement of February 10.
“If I am to ask, whose duty is it to collect market levies? The Cons tu on gives that duty to the local government chairmen. Chairmen elected on the pla orm of APC are the ones recognised by the Cons tu on going the Court of Appeal, Akure decision. We won’t do anything outside the Cons tuon, but we won’t submit to in mida on from anyone,” Olabisi said.
“The high-handedness of distribu on companies and weak enforcement of the federal laws guiding electricity consumer rights have con nued to encourage corrupon and pain for the Osun people.
“As you may be aware, the provisions in the Electricity Act 2023 empowered states to address this issue and more.
There is a need for Your Excellency to act swi ly to tackle this problem within the state.”
Urban Alert however recommend the following to address the situa on:
“Immediate Liaison with the State House of Assembly:
We urge Your Excellency to work closely with lawmakers to expedite the passage of the Osun State Electricity Market Bill. We believe that a legal framework is the first step to unlocking our regulatory independence and a rac ng local and foreign investors into the power sector.
“Establishment of the Osun State Electricity Regulatory Commission (OSERC): This body will be responsible for licensing, tariff se ng, consumer protec on, enforcement of service standards, and technical oversight of all electricity operators within the state. Ci zens deserve a watchdog that priori zes their welfare and holds providers accountable. To achieve this, capable hands need to be given the power to oversee this commission.”
Osun To Host 450 Athletes At National Table Tennis Festival
THE Osun State Table Tennis Associa on, in partnership with the Nigeria Table Tennis Federaon, is set to host the 5th edi on of the Michael and Felicia Alabi Memorial Na onal Table Tennis Fes val.
The event, scheduled to hold from April 27 to May 3, 2025, at the Idera Mul -Purpose Hall in Otan-Ayegbaju, will feature 450
players from 35 states, with a total cash prize of N11.5 million.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, the Chairman of the Osun State Table Tennis Associa on, Mr. Ayodeji Alabi, said the fes val will promote grassroots sports development and talent discovery, while also fostering community engagement.
The championship
will feature various categories including men’s and women’s singles, doubles, mixed doubles, under15, para, and veteran events.
Alabi noted that par cipants will be provided with free accommoda on and meals. He also revealed plans for post-game entertainment, including comedy shows, live music, and performances by top DJs.
He expressed confidence that the fes val would help revive interest in table tennis and posi on Osun State as a hub for sports and cultural events.
“This is more than a tournament; it’s a celebra on of talent and unity. We’re ready to make it a memorable experience for players and fans alike,” Alabi said.
Doctors Could Have Prevented Maradona’s Death, They Deceived Us – Daughter
ARGENTINE football legend Diego Maradona’s daughter told a court Tuesday his death “would have been avoided” if doctors caring for him after surgery had done their jobs.
Maradona died on November 25, 2020, aged 60, while recovering at home from brain surgery for a blood clot. He had ba led cocaine and alcohol addicon for decades.
His seven-person medical team is on trial for what prosecutors have called the “horror theater” of the final days of his life, and risk up to 25 years in prison if found guilty.
Maradona was found to have died of heart failure and acute pulmonary edema — a condi on where fluid accumulates in the lungs — two weeks a er going under the knife.
“If they had done their job, this would have been avoided,” his daughter Dal-
ma Maradona, a plain ff in the case, told a court in San Isidro in the north of Buenos Aires.
“They deceived us in the cruelest way,” she said of the medical team.
Dalma Maradona, 38, tes fied that physician Leopoldo Luque, one of the accused, had assured the family that home hospitaliza on was “the only op on.”
She was told her father would have everything he needed, including 24-hour care and an ambulance at
the ready.
This “never happened,” she said. “It was a house where, occasionally, a doctor would come to see him.”
A er her father’s death, she said she found the house “disgus ng, and it smelled like urine.”
She claimed she had tried to visit the ex-footballer days before his death, but was denied entry to the house by Maradona’s lawyer and an assistant.
The defendants in the case are accused of “homicide with possible intent” — pursuing a course of ac on despite knowing it can lead to their pa ent’s death.
Prosecutors allege the former footballer was abandoned to his fate for a “prolonged, agonizing period” before his death.
Nearly 120 witnesses are expected to tes fy in the long-delayed trial, which is expected to run un l July.
Why BVAS, IReV Key To Credible Elections - Osun INEC REC
THE Independent
Na onal Electoral Commission, INEC, in Osun State has reiterated its commitment to deploying technological innova ons to ensure the conduct of credible elec ons in the state and across Nigeria.
The declara on was made by the Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, Dr Mu u Olaleke Agboke, during a quarterly consulta ve mee ng held on Tuesday, April 15, 2025.
Addressing a gathering of poli cal party leaders, civil society organisa ons, media prac oners, and other stakeholders, Dr Agboke emphasised the importance of embracing technology as a means of upholding electoral integrity in the country.
He highlighted that INEC had made significant progress through the deployment of technology to tackle long-standing electoral challenges.
The INEC REC said, “As we all know, credible elecons are the cornerstone of democracy. The conduct of free, fair, inclusive, and transparent elec ons requires not only unambiguous legal frameworks, clear cut understanding of the electoral processes and procedures by the public and poli cal
will, but also strong instu ons and effec ve use of technology. In this regard, the Commission has made significant progress through the deployment of technology to address age-old electoral challenges. One of the most transforma ve of these innova ons is the Bi-modal Voter Accredita on System (BVAS), INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) purposely dedicated for transparency in the management of elec on results.”
According to him, “the BVAS has proven to be a game-changing tool, integra ng voter accreditaon through fingerprint and facial recogni on and enabling real- me electronic transmission of polling unit results to the IReV portal. “The dual func on of
the BVAS helps reduce human interference, curbs electoral malprac ces, and enhances transparency, which are all essen al for public confidence in the electoral system.
“All stakeholders— poli cal par es, CSOs, the media, and security agencies—must not only understand but also ac vely support these technologies. The BVAS is not just a device; it symbolises our collec ve determina on to protect the sanc ty of the vote.”
He urged poli cal pares to maintain peaceful conduct and internal democracy, adding that civil society organisa ons should con nue to advocate and observe electoral processes while the media must adhere to professionalism and factual repor ng.
INEC, he assured, would remain transparent and accountable in its opera ons.
“This consulta ve mee ng presents an opportunity to exchange ideas and strengthen the founda on for credible elec ons in Osun and across Nigeria,” he added.
Agboke reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to improving the electoral process.
“Let us use this forum
to ask ques ons, make sugges ons, and reaffirm our shared commitment to democracy,” he urged.
He warned that polical par es cannot direct INEC and that it is only the na onal headquarters of each poli cal party that can direct the INEC REC in each state.
“Where the venue for each primaries contravene that of the party headquarters, INEC will not be pushed.”
He called on poli cal par es to expose electoral fraudsters and perpetrators of electoral violence.
The mee ng saw acve par cipa on from the State Coordinator of NYSC, State Director of the Naonal Orienta on Agency, NOA, religious leaders, and representa ves of civil society groups, all of whom pledged their commitment to the democratic process.
NGO Tasks Media Executives On Reproductive Health Rights Reportage
Kazeem Badmus
ANon-Govermental organisa on, Olabode Youth and Women Ini a ve (OYAWIN) has tasked media execu ves on the need to report more on reproduc ve health and rights in Osun State.
The Execu ve Director of the NGO, Moroof Olabode, in his opening address at the two-day capacity building for media execu ves in the state on Monday, said issues of reproduc ve health can only be tackled through properly placed policies and programmes.
Olabode noted that government efforts at improving sexual Reproduc ve Health and Rights in Nigeria are s ll below interna onally ac-
ceptable.
He said, “We have been able to engage series of stakeholders ranging from Osun House of Assembly, Ministry of Health, Jus ce, Educa on, Women and Children Affairs, service providers, tradi onal ins tu ons, and others towards removing obstacles facing our young girls and women in the society in accessing their sexual reproduc ve health and rights, safe abor on and bodily autonomy.
“The state of access to sexual Reproduc ve Health and Rights in Nigeria is s ll below interna onally acceptable standards and government efforts aimed at improving it is low.
“Achieving Sustain-
able Development Goals (SDGs) 3 and 5 clearly requires young girls and women to have unhindered access to contracep ve choices that are affordable and acceptable through services that are accessible and based on confiden ality and informed consent.
“We are assembled here for this training to build and strengthen the capacity of the media execu ves in the promo on of sexual reproduc ve health rights (SRHRs).
“We can bridge the gap between SRHR policy and prac ce, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to informa on and necessary enlightenment on their sexual and reproduc ve health rights.”
Yusuf Oketola
•Agboke
FRIDAY, APRIL 18, 2025 - THURSDAY, APRIL 24, 2025 VOL. 20 NO 15 www.osundefender.com, email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com
IN the ever-evolving journey of Osun State, the winds of change have become increasingly apparent. As one of the pivotal states in Nigeria’s southwest region, Osun con nues to navigate through various poli cal shi s and developmental reforms that reflect both the challenges and the aspira ons of its people.
The desire for good governance, inclusive development, and long-term progress has never been more pronounced. Ci zens, civil society groups, and various stakeholders are paying close a en on to how the state evolves, not only in its poli cs but also in its developmental agenda.
One of the most notable developments in Osun’s recent history is the growing consciousness among the electorate. More than ever, voters are becoming aware of their rights and responsibili es in the democra c process.
With increasing access to informa on through digital pla orms, people are holding leaders accountable, demanding transparency, and par cipa ng more ac vely in civic discourse. This renewed poli cal awareness is gradually reshaping the landscape of governance, as leaders are compelled to listen more, engage more, and deliver more.
At the heart of these shi s is the call for more inclusive governance. Osun’s demography is diverse, with a popula on spread across urban centers, rural communi es, and remote towns. Addressing the unique needs of each group requires leaders and policymakers to adopt peoplecentered approaches.
In recent mes, there has been an increased emphasis on decentralisa on, with more efforts directed toward empowering local governments and tradi onal ins tu ons to take up developmental responsibili es. While progress is s ll a work in mo on, the founda on for a more inclusive structure is being laid.
Developmental reforms are also gaining trac on in key sectors such as educa on, health, infrastructure, and agriculture. The educa on sector, for instance, has witnessed policy efforts aimed at improving quality, access, and relevance. There has been a conscious move towards revamping school curricula, promo ng voca onal educa on, and enhancing the welfare of teachers.
While challenges such as inadequate facili es and teacher shortages remain, ongoing conversa ons and reforms are paving the way for a more robust educaon system that prepares young people for future opportuni es.
In the health sector, reform efforts have focused on expanding access to primary healthcare, reducing maternal and infant mortality, and strengthening healthcare delivery in rural areas. The establishment and upgrading of primary health centres, increased recruitment of medical personnel, and campaigns on preven ve health are some of the commendable ini a ves observed.
Although healthcare funding and infrastructure gaps persist, the a en on being given to health is a step in the right direc-
“Policies
that support smallholder farmers, improve access to credit, promote modern farming techniques, and attract private investment are slowly redefining the agricultural landscape”
By MATT. OLU OLOWOKERE PERSPECTIVE
Towards A Better Osun: Key Political Shifts And Developmental Reforms
on for a healthier and more produc ve popula on.
Infrastructure development, too, has remained a priority. Roads, electricity, and water supply are essen al to improving the quality of life and s mula ng economic growth. Across various communi es, ongoing and completed road projects have begun to ease transporta on, facilitate trade, and enhance connec vity between rural and urban areas.
Addi onally, a en on is being given to rural electrifica on and water projects, par cularly in communi es that have historically been marginalised. These ini aves, though not without their challenges, reflect a renewed commitment to spreading the dividends of development across all zones of the state.
Agriculture, which has tradi onally
STRIKER
Pbeen the backbone of Osun’s economy, is also witnessing reform. With a youthful popula on and vast arable land, the state holds enormous poten al to become a hub for agro-industrial transforma on.
Policies that support smallholder farmers, improve access to credit, promote modern farming techniques, and a ract private investment are slowly redefining the agricultural landscape. There is a growing recogni on that agriculture, if well-supported, can tackle unemployment, ensure food security, and drive inclusive economic growth.
Beyond sectoral reforms, one of the most crucial elements of progress is the strengthening of ins tu ons. A state cannot thrive without func onal public instu ons that are transparent, efficient, and accountable.
Osun’s journey toward ins tu onal reform has seen efforts to digitalise public services, train civil servants, and enforce an -corrup on frameworks. These reforms aim to restore public trust and improve service delivery across all levels of governance.
The role of youth and women in governance and development cannot be overlooked. Osun boasts a vibrant youth popula on with immense crea vity and energy. Encouraging youth par cipa on in poli cs, entrepreneurship, and innova on is essenal for building a resilient future.
Similarly, empowering women through educa on, economic opportuni es, and leadership inclusion remains fundamental to any sustainable development strategy. A be er Osun must be one where every cizen, regardless of gender or background, has the opportunity to thrive.
As Osun State con nues to chart its course through poli cal transi ons and developmental reforms, it is important to foster a culture of collabora on. Government alone cannot drive change; the private sector, civil society, the media, tradi onal instu ons, and everyday ci zens must all play their part. A shared vision, built on dialogue, empathy, and collec ve responsibility, is essen al for meaningful transforma on.
In conclusion, while challenges remain, the current trajectory of Osun State offers hope. The poli cal shi s and developmental reforms being witnessed are part of a broader movement towards a more inclusive, accountable, and progressive society. The road may be long and winding, but with sustained commitment from all stakeholders, a be er Osun is not just a dream — it is an achievable reality.
Striker is not the opinion of the Columnist featured above
AST and present, consistently; and especially in periods leading up to elec ons, we are stridently reminded about our different “tribes and tongues,” our worship and God that differ; our sex that differ; our genera on that differ and just about anything but the fact that THE MAJORITY of us have TOGETHER suffered untold hardship under governments that promise to make our lives be er than they met it but always end up with more millions dead from hunger, illnesses and insecurity; while we keep buying into their divideand-rule schemes.
The focus today thereby is that we need to begin to think holis cally, sensibly, globally and dispassionately about causes, effects, problems and solu ons to our trials and tribula on. This piece will only give one counsel, one instance that makes holis c thinking paramount more than ever, and give a sincere conclusive admoni on to all those who s ll have patrio c blood flowing in their veins.
The counsel: henceforth, when discussing how a na on will be free from trials, misery and tribula on and achieve genuine democracy, development and prosperity. PLEASE LEAVE BEHIND YOUR RELIGION, YOUR TRIBE, YOUR AGE, YOUR SEX, YOUR PARTY AND POLITICAL AMBITION – AND COME TO THE PARTY WITH OPEN MIND AND PATRIOTIC INTENTION: for the sake of your children, their children and future genera ons.
The instance: In order for you to know you are dealing with something bigger than a president, some gover-
The Big Picture
nors and legislators or poli cal par es; that you are dealing with a merciless system that you must defeat; to whom MAJORITY of our “leaders” across board and par es are miserable slaves, I quote the reported experience of the eminent Maitama Sule of Kano: “During the civil war, we were sent out to campaign for our cause. I went to the United States and I remember Alhaji Shehu Shagari went to the Scandinavian countries. When we returned, we compared notes before submi ng our reports to Gen Yakubu Gowon, the then Head of State. Shagari told me he met a common friend of ours and this is what the man told him: ‘We know why you are here, you have come to seek our favour and support for your cause. But let me tell you, we do not care about you, all we care about are your resources. If we could get robots to exploit your resources for us to develop our economy, we would not mind a lot of you being eliminated. You Nigerians are a peculiar case; you have the popula on, resources and we know your resources more than you do know about them. All you need in Nigeria is a fairly long period of say ten to twenty years and you will be able to make it. You will become a very strong economy, will join the economic powers, but you need this period of uninterrupted peace and stability. But we will not allow it because within that period, you will use your brains, and Nigeria has
got brains. You will work hard and you are hard working people, you will exploit your resources and you have them in abundance and you will develop your economy.
Developing your economy needs market and you have no problem with that because of your huge popula on, in addi on, you will have the en re West African region as your market. If that happens, you will be a thorn in our flesh; we would lose our source of raw materials because you would be using them in your factories. We would lose our market because you will be the market and also get other markets in West Africa. So, even a er your civil war, we would create one problem a er the other for you so that you may not enjoy the peace and stability that will enable you develop and become such a strong country.’” - Alh Yusuf Maitama Sule in his last interview with The Guardian published on July 28, 2013.
The Conclusion: Let us all borrow sense and find out more about this and related issues - on governance in Nigeria since then ll date. Let all patriots across all primordial divisions come together on the basis of an ac on plan to redeem the FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA. We will not be the first na on so trampled and we will not be the last. A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step and the sooner taken the sooner the arrival at Promised Land.
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
•Matt Olu OLOWOKERE (Engr) Past GM ORMA, Osun State