Osun Defender Online Version Of December 1, 2017 Edition

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MSME Loans:

50,000 Osun Residents To Benefit From Scheme •VP Lauds Aregbesola’s Infrastructural Feats

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•Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo (2nd right); receiving a copy of programme of events from the Governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (right); on the right of the VP is the Osun First Lady, Mrs Sherifat Aregbesola and Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, during the Nationwide Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Clinics for viable enterprises (MSME CLINIC) at the Mandela Freedom Park, Osogbo, State of Osun on Thursday.

Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI.

LG Primaries Fallout: Dissension In The Parties

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FRIDAY DECEMBER 1 - THURSDAY DECEMBER 7, 2017

MSME Loans: 50,000 Osun Residents To Benefit From Scheme •VP Lauds Aregbesola’s Infrastructural Feats

By Kehinde Ayantunji The Vice President of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbajo said on Thursday that 50,000 small scales business owners in Osun will access interest free loan to develop their businesses and by extension reduce poverty in the state.

Osinbajo said this in administration has Osogbo during the identified small and launching of Micro Small medium enterprise as and Medium Enterprises key sector to (MSME) initiatives in repositioning the Osogbo, State of Osun. country’s economy and He said President create wealth for the Muhammed Buhari-led teeming masses.

According to him, Buhari’s government is determined to end poverty among the people of Nigeria and will continue to assist small and medium enterprises to reduce unemployment in the society.

He said, “Our government is visionary, transparent and committed to the wellbeing of the people, the promise of President

•Deputy Governor, State of Osun, Mrs Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori (3rd left) introducing members of the State House of Assembly to the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo (3rd right), while the Secretary to the State Government of Osun, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti (right) watches as the Vice President arrives Osogbo on Thursday.

Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI

Buhari and our party, the All Progressive Congress (APC) is to make life more abundant for the people, our administration is not corrupt and we are going to deliver on our promises.”

“I have inspected some of the small and medium business exhibited here today and it showed that Osun people are reflecting virtuous value of the state, through hardwork and creativity.

I see beautiful furniture, artwork, agro- allied products among others and I am impressed that the federal government’s investment on the free interest loan is justifiable.”

“We have brought One Stop Shop here where all the federal government agencies that have to do with small scale business under one roof to address any challenge, our mission is to uplift the poorest Nigerians, federal government is solidly behind you and the state government will also support you to succeed.”

“I rejoice with the people of the state for the developmental strides of Governor Rauf Aregbesola and I urge you to continue to

Osun Partners Chinese Firm To Establish N216 Billion Industrial Parks

By Kehinde Ayantunji Osun State Government has signed an agreement worth N216 billion with a Chinese firm, Jiangsu Wuxi Taihu Cocoa Food Company Limited, on the establishment of an Industrial Park in the state.

The Governor, during Reading through a the agreement signing at a copy of the agreement, state dinner at the Governor Aregbesola Government House said the project will takebanquet hall in Osogbo off by next January as the stated that the state has state was ready to give all agreed to allocate 200 possible supports to hectares of land to actualise the success of the facilitate the establishment proposed Industrial Park. of the Industrial Park in The agreement reads in the state. part: ”On November 28, The partnership, 2017 Jangsu WUXI according to Governor TAIHU Cocoa Food Co., Aregbesola, will support Ltd. held talks with the the state on six different State Government of investments which Osun, Nigeria on the includes; cocoa bean investment in the processing, chocolate and establishment of food processing, salt Industrial Park in the processing, cassava starch State of Osun. processing, gold mining “Through full and power plants. communication and The total investment by negotiation, both sides Jiangsu Wuxi Taihu Cocoa reached resolutions Food Company Limited which are summarised as on the Industrial Park is follows: “the Osun USD 600 million.

Government of Nigeria He described the multi- agrees that Jiangsu Wuxi billion naira investment Taihu Cocoa Food partnership as part of his company Limited will administration’s efforts to invest to establish the raise the bar of local and Industrial Park in Osun foreign investment in the State who will allocate 200 state. hectares of land for the The Governor held that Industrial Park. the agreement would go a “The total investment long way to support the by Jiangsu Wuxi Taihu economic drive of the Cocoa Food Company state, particularly in the Limited on the Industrial quest for industrialisation. Park is USD 600 million.

The first phase of the project includes six projects: Cocoa bean processing, chocolate and food processing, salt processing, cassava starch processing, gold mining and power plants.

“The construction project of Jiangsu Wuxi Tiahu Industrial Park will strictly abide by the relevant laws and regulations of the State Government of Osun and Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“The government will provide policy guidance for the construction of Jiangsu Taihu Wuxi Industrial Park and give support of energy, infrastructure and other aspects.

After the completion of the project, favourable tax terms will be given.

“The state government will set up a working group for the construction of Jiangsu Taihu Wuxi Industrial Park, which is responsible for the docking and service with China. The two sides agreed that the project would start in 2018”.

In his remarks, the General Manager of Jiangsu Wuxi Taihu Cocoa Food Company Limited, Mr. Liu Jianhui, commended Governor Rauf Aregbesola for

tapping possible opportunities to develop the state commercially.

He said the company decided to establish $600 million worth projects in the state, having understudied the economic potentials of Osun to grow foreign investments.

Liu Jiangsu assured the state of fruitful partnership that would bring change to the economic activities of the state and as well create a robust bilateral economic relation between the state and Chinese firm.

The company’s GM said the investment would generate employment opportunities for youths, thus creating wealth and employment for the state’s citizens.

According to him, we are bringing a huge investment into the state of Osun as to complement the existing investment on cocoa processing industry and as well support the state economically, commercially and industrially.

“We have very strong confidence in the fact that the partnership would in no distance time bring about dividends to both parties as the state’s potentials would be appropriately utilised”, he stressed.

support the governor, I am sure he would fulfill all his promises.

“I have moved down to some places on my arrival and I am so impressed that God answered our prayer that we have someone like Governor Aregbesola, he has redefine social and economic prospect of Osun through massive infrastructural development”, Osinbajo added.

Governor Rauf Aregbesola in his remarks commended the federal government for the intervention saying the loan will go a long way to reduce poverty and improve the economy of the state in no distance time.

“We are excited and overwhelmed with the federal government intervention where 20,000 people will have access to N500,000 to N1 Million loan without interest, it is unprecedented and we consider it as a blessing to the people of Osun.

In his address, State Commissioner for Commerce and Investment, Mr Ismaila Alagbada explained that A r e g b e s o l a ’ s administration has distributed N3.5 billion to more than 10,000 people as loans to improve the small scale business and empower the informal workers in the state.

He said they have designed a refunding mechanism for the repayment of the loans and organised the

beneficiaries in a way to minimise default.

According to him, the MSME launched in Osun will avail over 10,000 people access to small scale business loans and provide platform for the small and medium entrepreneurs the opportunity to interact with network of government agencies responsible for registering, regulating, and controlling the opportunity to interact on business development and challenges.

The network of government agencies include; Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Small and Medium Enterprises Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) Bank of Industry (BOI) among others The commissioner explained that most of the small scale business owners including market women and artisans are confronting problem with registering their companies and accessing credit to improve the business which informed the One Stop Shop campaign of the federal government.

Alagbada added that through the platform, business owners will be avail with the opportunity to interact with BOI, CAC and further enhance trust among all the stakeholders.

Government Proximity Is Important To LG - Councillorship Aspirant A councillorship aspirant in Ilesa West Central Local Council Development Area, Akinyemi Oluwole Apara has disclosed that the essence of the third tier of government is to involve the people in decision making in issues that concern their welfare. enhance While speaking further w i t h O S U N development at the DEFENDER recently, he grassroots, hence, reduce disclosed the local rural-urban drift, reduce and overgovernment system was tension population in the urban created to benefit many centres. people at the grassroots He lamented some of rather than the interests the shortcomings of individuals elected to witnessed during the oversee the affairs. local government According to him, if primaries, across the the parliamentary system state, particularly in his of government is adopted ward, where he was as prescribed by Ogbeni substituted but added Rauf Aregebesola, it will that it would not push bring government closer him out of the party.

He said the urge to to the people and vice the people versa, reduce the cost of serve prompted his decision to electioneering join politics, adding that campaigning, as well as substituting his name for cost of governance. another candidate is not He added that the strong enough to constitution envisaged frustrate him out of that the creation of local politics as a result of his government would strong will to serve.

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NEWS

LG Primaries Fallout: Dissension

By Shina Abubakar

The fallout in the recently concluded ward primaries in the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the local government elections in the state of Osun might eventually snowballed into a fully blown internal crisis if not properly managed, as well as the PDP which has failed to offer alternative platform for its members to actualise their political ambition.

I n v e s t i g a t i o n s of the primary in ward 1 conducted by OSUN of the council. The DEFENDER showed that protesters claimed that many of the party Jide Agbaje won the loyalists were afraid that consensus arrangement the bitterness created by the party elders, the conducted during the primaries has primary the party further widen the among bickering in the party executive members and later the expanded rather than creating a platform to calm frayed primary by the ward nerves among warring polling a total of 304 votes out of the 463 members.

Findings revealed that accredited voters against factional interests led Albert Adeyemi in the officials saddled with the presence of the state responsibility of officials.

However, Chief conducting primaries to allegedly manipulate the E m m a n u e l - l e d protesters said the party process in favour of candidates with minority Executive Committee delegates in some of the was informed by an wards where primaries aspirant of the decision of the state officials that were conducted.

It was gathered that in one Tobi Ogundipe has some wards where over been announced as the two candidates appeared candidate at a meeting in for screening, the Osogbo without the screening committee consent of the ward recommended that only executives and to worsen one candidate emerge the matter, the anointed successful without candidate is not a making public the criteria member of the party.

Also, the medium for such decisions at the that the detriment of other gathered supremacy battle among candidates. some bigwigs in Iwo In Ifelodun local government for instance, Local Government has the recently resolved further created tussle crisis, which had lingered within the APC in the on for over two years, has local government as resurfaced as a result of aspirants belonging to the outcome of the local one of the camps were government primaries in not given consent form nor screened for the the council area.

It was gathered that party’s primary The situation was too candidates of a certain group were favoured different in Boluwaduro, across the council areas where the incumbent Executive Secretary lost against the other group.

As at the time of filing the primary conducted this report, it was by the ward executive gathered that members of committee but the the other group in the winner Mr Stephen town were of the view Dosunmu was not that the crisis will re- allowed to take part in enact, full blown, with the the screening exercise of action of the group which the party.

The crisis generated by they felt was not checked the outcome of the party by the party leadership.

Similarly, it was in Irepodun local alleged that some party government council area members from Irewole is almost dividing the Local Government town along party line, as Council Area who a monarch in the council protested against the was said to have been a attempt by some party castigating for caucus to allegedly commissioner party impose certain instigating candidates, who belong machineries against to a group in the party some indigenes of his were arrested, prosecuted town.

In a similar and remanded in Ilesa prison for about 24 hours. development, the PDP's is not an Also, party members camp from Obokun Local alternative platform for aspiring politicians as the Government Council Area stormed the state factional crisis that ought party secretariat last to have been resolved is Tuesday protesting what taking a new twist as they described as members who are impunity by the Kehinde willing to contest the local Lamolu-led state officials forthcoming who oversaw the conduct government election in

January are desperate to ensure that the crisis is done with even if it means shutting out the gladiators.

A faction of the Party in Osun State has rejected the arrangement by the national leadership of the party to harmonise and share positions among the two factions in the state PDP as the party congresses in some

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In The Parties

wards were inconclusive.

The Chairman of the faction with majority of members, Mr Soji Adagunodo disclosed that the harmonisation arrangement was unacceptable because it does not reflect the will and wish of the majority of members of the party in the state.

Adagunodo explained that the arrangement for

the sharing of party executives in the Local Government Areas as discussed during the harmonisaation at the PDP National Headquarters in Abuja last week cannot stand and insisted that free and fair congress should be conducted to resolve the matter.

This, according to a source close to the party

secretariat is a source of worry to members who believe they have the capacity to win election in the council poll scheduled for January next year.

Some of the PDP members do not want the party to boycott the election believing that the fallout of the APC primaries could work in the PDP's favour and •Continued on page 12

•Governor Rauf Aregbesola and Mr Liu Jianhui signing the terms of agreement for the establishment of Industrial Park in the State, at the Government House Banquet Hall.

We Are Not Paying Half Salary - Osun Govt

By Damilola Olatunji

participate in the Contributory Pension Scheme and therefore left service in 2011/2012.

“We recall that workers on levels 8 and above received the July and August arrears when the government paid in July this after receiving the second tranche of the Paris

Club Loan Refund.

We wish to state that the modulated salary was arrived at as the best option the government could take in the interest of the workers due to the PDP induced economic recession that crippled the state’s finances”, the statement further read.

The State Government of Osun has restated that it is not paying half salary to the generality of its workers as some mischief-makers and naysayers are trying to make the public to believe.

A statement issued by however admitted that the the state Commissioner for only outstanding payment Information and Strategy, to pensioners is the Mr. Adelani Baderinwa gratuity and this is due to reads, “For the purpose of workers who choose not to emphasis, explanation and clarification, workers in the state of Osun are paid No fewer than 5,000 unemployed school leavers long practice of the NDE, based on modulated salary structure agreed are currently engaged by the National Directorate the trainees could be upon by the government of Employment (NDE) for training under the assisted with and the labour unions in directorate’s vocational skills acquisition resettlement equipment, the state. programme. upon the completion of “The government The NDE Director participants to be the programme to set up wishes to state that their businesses and also contrary to the report by a General, Dr Nasir dedicated, punctual at national daily newspaper Moahammed Ladan, their duty post, and employ others.

The NDE boss ensure the overall disclosed this in Osogbo, on Tuesday, it does not of the emphasised that the Mr Sola success owe any workers, if the through, training programme modulated salary Daramola, NDE State programme.

He said under the marks another milestone structure agreement is Coordinator at the in the continued efforts current exercise, the anything to go by. We ceremony marking the have been saying it loud commencement of the participants would of the NDE to nip in the and clear and we will not programme. undergo the training for bud the growing rate of be tired of saying it until According to him, the three months, adding unemployment in the these mischief-makers skills acquisition training that based on the age country. succumb to fact and scheme will involve reality; it is only a section trades such as, bead of workers on grade level springing, beauty 13 and above that receives therapy /head gear David Makanjuola, an arch-elder in the Christ painfully 50 per cent of tying, barbing, computer Apostolic Church, Latona, Osogbo, State of Osun, their salaries based on has passed on in the early hours of Monday 27, appreciations, small agreement between the November, 2017. government and the chops & confectioneries.

Dr Ladan said the Ordained as Elder in his constant fidelity to labour unions”, the NDE’s approach of 1956, he became the the rich heritage of the statement reads.

It added that apart from imparting skills to Patron, Baba Ijo of the CAC 4-fold mission; such those on levels 13 and unemployed youths, to Church from 1987 until that he consistently above, no other workers enhance their self-esteem his transition, and wished that the corporate had better receive half of his or her and become Treasurer of CAC Men church to the salaries and the workers in independent, has Association (CACMA) returned this category are just about become a saving grace of from 1960 to 1994, which grandiosity of its enviable 20 per cent of the state’s reducing tension & social reflected his spartan life. pedigree as a single, workforce.

He served in the CAC unified body. unrest among youths, The statement added who usually are always General Baba Ijo, 93, is survived Executive that all workers in the state bubbling with a lot of Council from 1956 until by children, have received their grandchildren and great he was tempered by age. salaries up to October this energy, which could be His reported active grandchildren. positively deployed for year, as well as pensioners Burial arrangements involvements in the CAC national development. in the state.

He urged the selected affairs aptly captured will be announced later.

The state government

NDE Recruits 5,000 Youths For Vocational Training

CAC Patron Transits

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4 Workers And Paris Club Refunds At a time several states are nearly at a tipping point financially, the prospect of an imminent cash rain ought to stoke some excitement. So it was on Monday when President Muhammadu Buhari directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, Godwin Emefiele, Minister of Economic Planning and Budget, Udoma Udo Udoma and Finance Minister, Kemi Adeosun to negotiate with the governors, with a view to settling their outstanding Paris Club refunds. For long-suffering workers across the states of the federation and the governors most of who have been (sometimes) needlessly maligned over a crisis that was not their making, it comes as a soothing balm to their pains.

Yet again, it is a season of great expectations – and potentially one of restiveness, particularly of workers and pensioners.

Indeed, there are, already, countless proposals on what the funds should be used for. A somewhat preponderant position would appear to suggest that the refunds should be deployed to clear the arrears of wages and pensions in the states – as

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Clearly, while the workers in particular may have been badly hit by the current crisis, the idea that the entire cash be handed out to them to clear the arrears of wages seems, quite frankly, ludicrous.

Agreed, the workers deserve their due; but so does the rest of the citizens

if that is all there is to the business of governance.

Just like the last previous interventions, we must again warn at the temptation to substitute a palliative or placebo for therapy. Clearly, if there are any lessons to be taken from the earlier interventions, it is the fact that the problems facing the states as a whole are far deeper, in fact, more complex, than any superficial interventions – no matter how many multiple times – can solve.

Fact is – the states aren’t getting anything that they should not ordinarily be entitled to were to be a truly functional federation.

Whether it is the so-called bailout or refund of the overpayment on the Paris Club loans, the states should ordinarily be able to enjoy such fiscal leeway as befitting their status as federating entities – drawing upon the federal support only in situations of

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grave emergencies. To the extent that the latest crisis is itself a derivative of dysfunctions of our federalism, it seems only inevitable that the federal government will be called up when necessary to solve the structural mess – until such a time the basis of the problem is dealt with.

This of course takes us to the perennial restiveness of the workers.

Clearly, while the workers in particular may have been badly hit by the current crisis, the idea that the entire cash be handed out to them to clear the arrears of wages seems, quite frankly, ludicrous. Agreed, the workers deserve their due; but so does the rest of the citizens – farmers, artisans, market men and women and non-wage workers – deserve to be OSUN served from the same pot not just Publisher because their welfare also Acting Editor

Political Apathy And Its Consequence In Our Society First and foremost, indifference to political activities and electoral processes have contributed immensely to the problem we are facing in Nigeria today. The situation of political apathy is now becoming heightened and this can have negative effect on the entire society at large.

Political apathy did not just come into existence, but it is triggered by some phenomena among which is the bad political leadership plaguing the country. Most of our political leaders today are not ready to do anything for the society. They are just there to satisfy their selfish interest and to enrich their pocket. Since people are not benefiting from the political system, many have eventually

made up their mind not to get involved in voting and other political activities.

The second circumstance that definitely brings about political apathy is the non-

fulfilment of promises that were made during their manifestoes. Many people rely on these promises, but they were rather disappointed. People have come to know that all political promises are mere lies and propaganda, and as a result of these, many people are discouraged to participate in politics.

Another fact is that, the way elections are usually being conducted bring about chaos, intimidation, harassment and some other social unrests that created fear in the mind of

the electorate and due to all these acts, many have died while others have sustained critical injury.

So, I think these also contributed a lot to people’s hatred towards politics.

To ameliorate this issue of political apathy, I would urge our political leaders

depend on that, but because the ability of the state to renew itself as a way to guarantee its future prosperity is assured only when portion of that cash is invested in physical infrastructure. That is the way to go.

What the times therefore call for is proper understanding. Neither the time to raise unnecessary expectations nor should it be an occasion for blackmail or needless stoking of tensions. With good faith on the side of the workers and the state governments, it should be possible to forge necessary compromises to ensure that the states move forward. To the extent that the current challenges tug at the heart of the lopsided federal practice which deny the states of their just dues as one would expect in a true federation, it has become inevitable to re-balance the Nigerian federation by devolving both economic and political powers to the states, to ensure that they are less beholden to the centre, and to make them truly productive as against sharing entities.

to change their selfish attitude for good and caring one to better the lots of the society.

Our political leaders should also try to fulfill various promises they made during campaigns and try to restore the confidence people have in them.

I will also implore the people or those that are indifferent to politics and election to get politically socialised and participate because it is our right and obligation as responsible and active members of the nation. Not participating in elections can only worsen the situation because it will breed unqualified and noneligible representation.

•YUSUF ABDULFATAI, Oke-Goseni, Osogbo.

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Exposing Osun Tourism Potentials For Economic Development The economic potentials of tourist centres in the State of Osun recently attracted the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos to the state on a study tour to these centres. ISMAEEL UTHMAN writes.

Tourism has become a worldwide industry which is recognised as one of the top three constituents of world trade, ranking third after petroleum and the vehicle industries.

Osun state is said to be the cultural and traditional centre of Yorubaland. Osun is blessed with attractive, natural and world class tourist sites. In the Yoruba nation, no state has the numerous eyecatching natural tourist sites like Osun. The state has not less than 60 tourism sites. Some of the tourism centres are historical and spiritual. Tourist centres like Osun •The team at the Kiriji peace treaty site.

Osogbo Sacred Groove, Osogbo, Oduduwa groove, Oranmiyan staff passionately raised the issue of the outstanding tourism destination. (both in Ile-Ife), Kiriji war site in Imesi- tourism potentials of Osun.

“The tremendous aura of tradition According to a letter dated mixed with a touch of modernity that Ile and Igbajo, Oluminrin waterfall in September 27, 2017 written to Governor Erin-Ijesa, Ayinkunugba waterfalls in oozes from Osun state, which is Oke-Ila, Imesi Mysterious caves and Rauf Aregbesola by NIPSS, the issue appreciated as a hub of cultural movement rocks are major tourist sites generated a lot of intellectual renaissance (home of Oduduwa and among course cradle of the Yoruba race) presents a which can alone turn around the engagement participants. The letter signed by the huge tourism potentials which the state economy of the state.

The economic potentials of tourist Managing Consultant, NIPSS, Mr. government must exploit to the sociocentres in Osun have attracted the Asipita Umar reads: “Participants economic benefits of its citizens. attention of the National Institute for agreed that Osun is a state whose “In view of the foregoing and within Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), history, rich heritage and mesmerising the context of the mandate of the Kuru, Jos. NIPSS, is understudying the attraction (Olumirin waterfalls, Osun National Institute, we have resolved to economic values and fortunes of tourist Osogbo Sacred Grove, Oranmiyan engage the state government on a sites, with a view to developing a Staff, Ife Bronze, Osogbo Arts and project to do a detailed study of the strategic framework and policy for the Metals and Great indigenous food, etc) tourism potentials of Osun state with Federal Government to explore the make it a fascinating, unique and a view to crafting a medium-to-long tourism potentials in the state for national and state economic The tremendous aura of tradition mixed development.

NIPSS did not just pick Osun for with a touch of modernity that oozes from examination and analysis. Findings Osun state, which is appreciated as a hub of revealed that the attention of NIPSS was drawn to Osun tourism potentials cultural renaissance (home of Oduduwa and by a participant of the Policy Strategy cradle of the Yoruba race) presents a huge and Leadership Course (PSLC), Mr. Tor Gowon Yaro who is the Executive tourism potentials which the state Director of Foundation for Ethnic and government must exploit to the socioReligious Tolerance. Yaro, sponsored by the Lagos State House of Assembly, economic benefits of its citizens.

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term state strategy for transforming that sector.

“The project will involve a programme of packaging each tourist site for greater local and international attraction, crafting a funding plan and a programme of marketing the t o u r i s m attractions of Osun globally.”

On Monday November 11, NIPSS sent down a team to Osun to go round major tourist centres in the state for critical evaluation of the natural endowment. The team which was led by Umar had Professor Sola Adeyanju, Mrs Zandra Agbor and Tor Gowon Yaro (the mover of Osun tourism development at NIPSS) as members. Part of the tourist sites visited by the team was Oluminrin waterfall at Erin-Ijesa in Oriade Local Government of the state. Towering high, the cliff can be found within the community axis of Erin-Oke, ErinIjesha, and Erinmo. The fall was said to have been discovered in 1140 AD by Akinla, a granddaughter of Oduduwa, when the people of Ife were migrating to Erin-Ijesha.

Olumirin waterfall has seven falls, each one providing a new and different perspective. The waterfall forms a large pool of water on the ground, surrounded by vegetation. The steps needed to reach a next level are not specified. Climbing them may be a daunting task, but it is a rewarding one as it gives an awe-inspiring experience. The Olumirin waterfalls, according to the Chairman, Osun Tourism Board, Engineer Abimbola Daniyan, was the most visited tourist site in Nigeria as at November of 2014, saying from January to November, it had grossed 50,000 holiday makers.

Also, the NIPSS team visited the •Continued on page 6

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Exposing Osun Tourism Potentials For Economic Development •Continued from page 5 ancient Kiriji war site at Imesi-Ile, in Obokun Local Government and Igbajo in Boluwaduo local government. The site is the place where the 16-year-old war between Ibadan and the combined forces of Ekiti and Ijesha took place.

‘Kiriji’ was an onomatopoeic name given to the war from the thunderous sound of the cannons the Ekitis and Ijeshas, under the command of Ogedengbe, purchased and used in abundance during the war.

The site was made up of many historical places: Ogendengbe Stone Stool, Ogun shrine, Fejeboju stream, Ibu Latoosa, Treaty peace site, Faragbota tree and Abaa Latoosa (Village of Latoosa). Ogendengbe stone stool was the commanding tower for the army of Ekiti Parapo and they waited patiently and steadfastly for the mystical command and communication from their commander’s stool which is about 1000 metres to the war site. Ogun shrine was where Ogendengbe usually consulted gods on how the war will look like and it was the enquiry portal.

Fejeboju stream was formally called Eleriko which supplied water to both the Ibadan and Ekiti parapo confederate camps. But history recorded that during the war, victims from Ekiti Parapo camp washed their injured part of their bodies at the stream and later people saw blood splashes on their faces because of the much blood flowed into it from the casualties during the war. The ancient landmark where peace was restored was the Peace Treaty Centre which is situated between the two communities (Igbajo and Imesi-ile).The arena was the site all stakeholders of the war converged to end the war.

The NIPSS team also visited Ayinkunnugba waterfall at Oke-Ila in Ifedayo Local Government.

Ayinkunugba is a waterfall of over 80m high with 236 staircases. The waterfall is in the thick forest people will descend to discover the wonderful work of nature, that is in the beautiful landscape of mountains, caves and trees. It was reportedly discovered by a hunter who traced a shot strange animal called Kunugba to the tick forest where he discovered the falls and named it after the animal; Kunugba fall. The team was received by the Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin who called on stakeholders in Nigeria to commit their resources and knowledge to the development of their various communities.

The United Nation Education, Scientific, Cultural Organisation

•A scene of Erin-Ijesa waterfall.

(UNESCO) designated Osun Osogbo grove was another site visited by the team. The Grove was first declared a National Monument in 1965. The grove covers 75 hectares of land. OsunOsogbo Sacred Grove is also part of National Tourism development Master Plan that was established with World Tourism Organization (WTO) and United Nations Development Program (UNDP). The dense forest of the Osun Sacred Grove is some of the last remnants of primary high forest in southern Nigeria. Set within the forest sanctuary are forty shrines, sculptures and art works erected in honour of Osun and other Yoruba deities, many created in the past forty years, two ancient palaces, five sacred places and nine worship points strung along the river banks with designated priests and priestesses.

The NIPSS team was excited on all the visited tourist sites. They believed that the tourist centres possess great potentials for the development of the state economy and that of the country at large. According to the team, Osun has more than 12 internationally known tourist centres which should be used to build the economy of the state and that of the country in general.

The leader of the team, Mr Asipita Umar said, “We are here to form a

‘

culture is the total way of life a group of people, the more you can promote your culture gives you comparative advantage in terms of interaction with other people of the world.

’

•A view of the Osun Osogbo groove.

corporation with the state government on ways and means to improve the tourism development situation on the natural occurring tourist attractions in the state.

Osun state is blessed with more than a dozen world recognised internally-known tourist centres and sites. But as it is, the state government has not taken the full advantage of the potentials in terms of economic activities, cultural promotion that the tourism sites in Osun state could offer.

“The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies is the apex Nigerian institution that concentrates on analysing and looking at policy and strategy with relation to critical development issues in Nigeria. Tourism is the second largest contributor to global GDP and the second largest employer of labour worldwide. If Osun state has these potentials and we have not taken the right advantage of maximising it to highest possibilities, giving the current trend of diversifying the economy, NIPSS feel that we have to start looking at potentially rich areas for generating employment, foreign exchange earnings and many other things.

“Also, culture is the total way of life of a group of people, the more you can promote your culture gives you comparative advantage in terms of interaction with other people of the world. Our purpose here is mainly explorative, after this we will sit

down, have a discussion and come up with what we can do together to attract proper investment to develop these sites to world class places for tourist lovers”.

Umar said, NIPSS would design a strategic policy framework for the Federal Government for the development of tourism in Osun and other parts of the country.

In her address, a member of the team, Mrs. Zandra Agbor, who is a Chief Consultant in the institute said: “What we have seen so far is quite interesting, if we did not come to this place, we would not have known what Osun has on ground.

It is an eye opener to us and I know that if proper investment is done, I am so sure this will open up Osun state and it will generate lots of revenue and serve as great potentials for the state.”

In his remarks, a member of the team, Professor Sola Adeyanju said: “There are lots of sites in Osun that should actually be used to build the economy of the state and that of the country in general. Tourism is a sure way to boost and diversify our economy.”

The Chairman, Osun Board of Tourism, Engineer Abimbola Daniyan, who took the team round some of the tourist centres in the state said: “This is our single largest opportunity for economic expansion and diversification of our revenue sources.

“These places give unpaid publicity for Nigeria and Osun state; go to anywhere on the net; you will find Olumirin waterfalls, Ayinkunugba waterfalls, Kiriji war sites and so many others. It is our duty to ride on the already mileage and build a big leverage out of it. We can do that by driving marketing in a more systematic and promotional manner, improving the facilities to enhance the ecstatic value of these assets and providing support services and product which can turn this place to a destination in the proper sense.”

Daniyan commended Governor Rauf Aregbesola on his effort at promoting tourism in the state, saying that the governor’s plan for tourism development was halted by the paucity of fund.

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COMMUNITY

FRIDAY DECEMBER 1 - THURSDAY DECEMBER 7, 2017

Ejigbo West LCDA Embarks On Grading Of Roads, Others to Aye road, Aye to government and a lover work of the Executive In its resolve to ensure development and easy Oguro which is the seat of development.

Secretary to the good transportation across the Ejigbo West Local Council of the LCDA, Agurodo Reacting on behalf of gesture of Ogbeni Development Area (LCDA), the Caretaker to Aye, Aye to Isoko, the people of Aye road Aregbesola who created Management Committee led by Prince Ayodele Isoko to Ola and many community in Masifa- the new LCDA to Adetona has commenced the grading of roads linking roads in Ife- Ile, Mr. Dejo Ajirin guarantee grassroot across the council area.

Odan. appreciated the development.

According to the and cut across.

The Supervisory administration of Prince Meanwhile, the Executive Secretary of Adetona also urged Councillor for Works Adetona for administration of Prince the council during the residents of the council and Transport, Alhaji flagging off of the to take good and proper Safiriyu Oyebamiji who remembering their roads Adetona has provided at this critical time, hand-pump borehole at grading exercise at care of all governments’ commended the saying this would assist Oja-Oba market in IfeMasifa-Ile, the rationale property in their leadership style of them in conveying their Odan for the market behind grading of roads communities.

Adetona, described him farm produce to market. men and women to have at this particular period The roads undergoing as a man of the people He associated the good potable water to drink is to make the grading are; Masifa-Ile who run all inclusive transportation of farm produce from farms and communities to the market easier. while speaking during project for the monarch.

By Sunday Obalodu He said this was the 39th edition of ODUN According to Oba because the greater The Olosu of Osu in Atakumosa West Local IYO/OSU DAY 2017 in Adejola the town needs percentage of the people Government in Osun State, Oba Jethro Adegoke which there was a Special development and of the council area are Adejola has called for the establishment of tertiary Appeal Fund Raising of progress. He maximised farmers. institution by the Federal and State governments N100 million naira in the occasion by enjoining According to a within the community. support of building an the good people of the statement by the The traditional ruler made the declaration ultra modern palace community to rally Information Officer of the council, Ayobami Olayanju the administration has resolved that if at all it could not embark on tarring of roads because of the council’s lean purse, grading of roads would go a long way in complementing the programme of massive road construction across the state by Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

The council boss then appealed to the people of Ejigbo West to be faithful to their civic responsibilities by paying their levies and taxes as and when due, •L R ; Special Adviser on Agriculture to Oyo State Governor, Prof. Oluwasegun Adetokunbo; Former President, with a view to ensuring Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan. Prof. Idowu Olayinka during the Official that the expected launching of the University of Ibadan Women’s Society Agro Impact Projects Empowerment Initiative held at PHOTO: IBRAHIM SUBARU development is rapid Trenchard Hall, University of Ibadan.

and use.

Besides, the people of Loogun Area in IfeOdan have lauded the caretaker management committee for bailing them out of the age long darkness the area had been thrown to by the activity of the electricity cable vandals, by replacing the stolen 150mm square/4 core upriser cable and other transformer accessories.

Monarch Calls For Establishment Of Tertiary Institutions

Ifelodun North LCDA Begins Massive Road Grading In a bid to bring succour to both indigenes and He enjoined them to non-indigenes of Ifelodun North Local Council always pay their taxes Development Area (LCDA), the caretaker and other payable dues in management committees led by Mr Kasali Oyewo order to complement the has embarked on grading of rural access roads across effort of the government. the council, with a view to boosting the economy of Meanwhile, according the council area. to a statement by the The flag-off of the the suffering of the information officer of the roads was done on 6th people. local government November, 2017 by the Executive Secretary and members of the council management and the The Executive Secretary, Ayedaade Local roads include; Ikirun/ Government Council Area, Mr Bashir Oduwole, has Eko-Ende roads.

According to the eulogised the Governor of the State of Osun, Rauf Executive secretary while Aregbesola for the massive work done on the Chief answering question from Bisi Akande Trumpet Bridge located in Gbongan, one of the head of the the headquarters of the council. community along He lauded the The bridge, according Ikirun/Enko-Ende road, governor for the to the ES, has helped to the council boss construction of the bridge open up Gbongan town promised that his which he described as and increased the level of administration would do amazing, saying, it has economic and social its best in repairing the helped to reduce road activities. bad roads in the council accidents at Gbongan The local government Area in order to alleviate Junction for road users. boss made the remark

Azeezat Afolabi, the council boss said his administration was ready to touch all other bad roads in the council, as the administration has been trying to create equal opportunity for all.

Oyewo then enjoined

sons and daughters of Ifelodun LCDA to support the present administration of Governor Rauf Aregbesola at the state level as more development are still in pipe-lines for all.

round the town in the quest for provision of basic amenities and other notable infrastructural development capable of bringing economic growth, he equally expressed delight to the organisers of the programme for their relentless efforts.

Oba Adegoke Adejola however admonished politicians to play politics according to the rules and regulation adding that they should see themselves as brothers and sisters while he urged them to shun politics of hatred, bitterness and thuggery.

The monarch called for hotel support of the building of the ultra modern palace project by the indigenes of the town and other well wishers so as to make the dream of the project a reality within a very short time.

Also in his brief remarks, High Chief J.O. Faluyi appealed to sons and daughter of the community to rally round the building of the palace project.

Among important personalities that witnessed the ceremony include Chief Lawrence Ayeni and former Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Wale Bolorunduro and other from far and near.

‘Akande Trumpet Bridge’ A Monumental Legacy - Ayedaade ES when he and his cabinet went to inspect the bridge as part of activities marking the 7th year anniversary of the Aregbesola government.

In a statement by the Information Officer of the local government, Mrs Khadijat Amusan, the ES said the Olufi of Gbongan, Oba Adetoyese Oyeniyi Oyetunji, Odugbemi I, his Chiefs and the entire

people of Gbongan are grateful to the governor.

“No doubt, Gbongan being a town strategically located in a junction, leading to the State Capital would benefit immensely from the construction work”, he stressed.

As part of the activities marking the anniversary, the ES and his team went to Olufi and Obada markets in Gbongan and

Ode-Omu respectively to clear heap of refuse in the market.

The council also undertook the renovation of Ten Shopping Complex at Old Obada market in Ode-Omu as well as rural electrification at Ebira quarters also in OdeOmu. A 3-day free health care programme was organised for the people in the council area.

CHANGE OF NAME That I formerly known as OGUNS NIYI CORNELIUS, now wish to be known and addressed as OLOBA NIYI CORNELIUS. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

CHANGE OF NAME

I S M A I L A BABATUNDE, SAIBU BABATUNDE and JIMOH BABATUNDE are all my names. I now wish to be known and addressed as ISMAILA BABATUNDE. All former documents remains valid. UBA and general public should take note of this.

That I formerly known as RAFIU ALANI ADEBISI, now wish to be known and addressed as RAFIU OYEDELE ADEBISI. All former documents remain valid.

Zenith Bank Plc and General public should take note.

That I formerly known as AKOREDE MICHAEL OLUMIDE, now wish to be known and addressed as FAKOREDE MICHAEL OLUMIDE. All former documents remain valid.

G.T Bank and General public should take note.

That I formerly known as ALADE KUBURAT AYOADE, now wish to be known and addressed as L AWA L - A L A D E KUBURAT AYOADE. All former documents remain valid. First Bank, Skye Bank, Sterling Bank, Access Bank, G.T Bank and General public should take note.

That I formerly known as BUSARI OLAWALE NOFIU, now wish to be known and addressed as BUSARI OLASHILE OLAWALE. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 1 - THURSDAY DECEMBER 7, 2017

NEWS

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Aregbesola's Giant Stride In Youth Engagement Second To None - Ifaturoti

By Oluwapelumi Fasoyin The giant stride recorded by the present administration in the State of Osun under the leadership of Governor Rauf Aregbesola in Youth Engagement has again been rated second to none in Nigeria. that the success The State Coordinator, gathering of OYES attracted Osun Youth Employment record the World Bank which in and Social Support turn, assisted YESSO Operation (YESSO), Mr. which was designed to Olufemi Ifaturoti stated address the unskilled this during his bridges, engender soft presentation to the skills training and create visiting Delegates of the employment.

Armed Forces Command He said the interesting and Staff College, Jaji, peculiarity of YESSO Kaduna State who are on which has three Study Tour to the State of components which are Osun.

Coordination, Public Ifaturoti who doubles Workfare and Skills for as the Director General, Job is its unassailable Bureau of Social Services, credibility as a result of its Office of the Governor untainted Community informed the delegates Based Targeting (CBT) that the peaceful through which atmosphere of the state is process Single Register of the not unconnected with the the Poor and Vulnerable selfless commitment of Households is generated. the Governor to Youth Ifaturoti added that Engagement through Osun youth engagement OYES which gainfully experience has engaged over 45,000 engendered National youths in Teaching, Security through the mop Maintenance of public up of army of i n f r a s t r u c t u r e , unemployed youths E n v i r o n m e n t a l through OYES, YESSO b e a u t i f i c a t i o n , and even Osun Jobs Emergency primary (O’JOBS) which health support, Initiative he affirmed has paid off Sanitation czars, among in terms of eliminating others. and property The coordinator, who life is also the Chairman, insecurities.

In their separate OYES Management at the event, the Committee informed the remarks Commissioner for

Empowerment and Youth Engagement, Mrs. Folake Adegboyega, Commissioner for Education, Mr. Kola Omotunde-Young, Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Mr. Tope Adejumo and Commandante of OYES, Col. Eni-Ibukun Oyewole (Rtd) underscored the u n p a r a l l e l e d commitment of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola to the Six Point Integral Action Plan of his administration.

•Osun YESSO Cordinator, Gbenga Ifaturoti addressing the delegates.

JATHROPHA Is An Alternative Source Of IGR - JAGPAEN

By Francis Ezediuno Jathropha plant has been described as a potential source of revenue for the Federal government of Nigeria which is trying to diversify the nation’s economy from over dependence on oil.

The Jathropha plant is Osogbo.

Hon. Ajayi explained said to be a drought resistant perennial plant that Jathropha is a popular which grows well in alternative for diesel marginal or poor soil, easy worldwide as its usefulness to establish, grows is experiencing a rerelatively faster and awakening, saying, “the capable of producing seeds plant produces seeds with an oil content of 37%. for up to 50 years.

“The oil (biodiesel) from This description was given by Honourable Ajayi the fruit is efficient, cleaner Olu Caleb, the Osun State and cheaper and it burns Chairman of Jathropha with clear smoke-free Growers Processors and flame and as a fuel for Exporters Association of simple diesel engine”.

He also hinted that Nigeria (JAGPAEN) during an interview with nothing in the Jathropha tree is a waste, as its byOSUN DEFENDER in

products are used as organic fertilizers, glycerins, insecticides, medicines that can cure diseases like cancer, piles, snake bite, paralysis and so on.

In the area of land reclamation, Jathropha is also used to reclaim arid lands thereby checking desertification and soil erosion.

The State Chairman of the association used the opportunity to call on the government at all levels to assist individuals interested in growing the plant with land, loans and grants.

“Government can be of assurance to raise high quality seeds and nursery seeds and provide

warehouses, vehicles for transportation and other farm machineries that will aid its mechanised production which it maximally exploited would boost economy development.

“We need to educate our members. In line with this, government and corporate organisations can help us in organising periodic seminars both at the state and local government levels”.

He revealed that the Federal Government has approved one hundred Billion naira for eleven refineries out of which two would be located in the southwest while the remaining nine will be in the North.

Under Aregbesola, Waste Management Has Fared Better A glimpse into how Osun has been able to maintain a clean profile on environmental sanitation for seven years has shown that prior to the establishment of Osun Waste Management Agency (OWMA), the state was almost becoming the ‘filth capital’ of Nigeria with citizens dumping wastes indiscriminately.

In an encounter with OSUN DEFENDER’s FRANCIS EZEDIUNO, the General Manager of the agency, Ganiyu Oyeladun revealed why this had been so before the advent of the Aregbesola administration and why the story has changed in the last seven years.

OSDF: How was it like before the establishment of OWMA in Osun?

Oyeladun: At the inception of this state, the Osun State Environmental Protection Agency (OSEPA), was saddled with the responsibilities of waste management, sanitation, flood and erosion control as well as other environmental protection activities. But the agency had limited numbers of professionals and equipments, it has only three units of refuse trucks to cover the whole state.

There was also uncontrolled open dumping of wastes at the Onibueja Central Dumpsite due to the lack of a perimeter fence. There was also no dumpsite in many of the local government areas, there was inadequate provision of logistics for monitoring and enforcement, mobilisation for public awareness campaign. Also, there is minimal revenue generation from waste management and weak political will on the implementation of waste management and sanitation policies.

As a result of these deficiencies on the part of OSEPA, heaps of refuse was a common scene in the drains, waterways, streets and on major roads across the state.

Osdf: How has the OWMA become an intervention?

Oyeladun: OWMA as an agency took over from the defunct OSEPA, with the huge task of redefining waste management and sanitation in all ramifications.

The operation of the Agency was however backed up with adequate political will and support.

By the grace of God and the hardwork, support and co-operation of the state government, when we came on board, we had to press Mr. Governor to declare a 90 day state of emergency on sanitation and zero tolerance for filth.

We also spearheaded the introduction and sustenance of bi-monthly environmental sanitation activities throughout the state which is still ongoing.

We introduced and sustained environmental sanitation of market and workplace every Thursday

Biogas (O’ Clean gas), reduction in illegal dumpsites across the state, reduction in sanitation related diseases, refurbishment of three old refuse trucks, purchase of monitoring and enforcement vehicles, improvement of drainage/erosion control, dredging of water ways and high way management, purchase of septic tank emptier, recruitment and training of 56 truck operators (including 10 OYES Cadets) at the Lagos Drivers Institute (LASDRI) and Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA).

•OYELADUN of the week, acquisition and maintenance of 31 refuse vehicles, purchase of 61 refuse vans for PSP operations, regular maintenance of the central dumpsites at Onibueja in Osogbo among others.

On the development of the central dumpsite, we have built perimeter fencing with 2 gates, dug and installed borehole for the dumpsites with solar lights done. Apart from the central dumpsite in Osogbo, OWMA had established dumpsites in almost all the local government areas in the state.

The acquisition and installation of waste nylon recycling machine in Osun is another new innovation which we introduced as a means of recycling wastes.

Within the period under review, we have ensured direct involvement of all identified stakeholders on waste management and sanitation, including setting up of technical committee in all the local government areas in the state.

Besides all these, some other achievement of our agency include encouragement of waste/refuse conversion through the concepts of nylon buy-back,

Osdf: What are the challenges your agency is confronted with?

Oyeladun: We are facing inadequate staffing especially for professionals, inadequate co-operation from members of the public, adequate equipments and materials for waste management at the dumpsite which include bulldozers, excavators, graders and rollers, inadequate land for truck parking and mechanic workshop, and inadequate office accommodation for staffs. So, there is need to update the enabling laws and regulations, while we also need training and retraining of our professional.

Osdf: What are your targets for the future?

Oyeladun: We want to stop and discourage placement of wastes on the highways and road median, ensure construction and development of sanitary landfill, distribution of branded household dustbins to offices and shops, expansion of Private Sector Participation (PSP) through the engagement and empowerment of more youths in waste management, commencement of work on buy-back of waste plastics and nylons, commencement of work on waste recycling and Waste to Energy, review of enabling laws and regulations. We are also focusing on reviewing the enforcement structure and operation, work on introduction of special Court for sanitation offenders/defaulters, and striving to improve revenue from waste management and many more.

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THE SOCIAL REGISTER

THE SOCIAL REGISTER

FRIDAY DECEMBER 1 - THURSDAY DECEMBER 7, 2017

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9

A Cocktail Of Recent Happenings Wedding Ceremony Between Mary Oladapo And Joel Owoseni At Zion Baptist Church, Offa Kwara State Last Saturday. Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI.

NASFAT Youth Wing Holds Dawah Week

By Gbenga Adeniyi

The Nasirul-Lahi-L-Faith Society (NASFAT) Osun State Youth Wing, recently organised Dawah Week for the propagation of Islam and sensitization of members against social vices.

The one week programme includes, Road Work from Oja Oba to Owode Ede Ilesa road, Secondary School Quran and Quiz Competition, and Public Lecture delivered by Alhaji Babatunde Yusuf, popularly known as Oko Iya Eleko at the NASFAT School auditorium. Osogbo.

The public lecture has in attendance the Deputy Speaker, State of Osun House of Assembly, Hon Akintunde Adegboye, and Executive Secretary, Osogbo West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Alhaja •NASFAT female members during the Dawah Week T e m i l a d e Olokungboye among other dignitaries in the state.

Speaking at the programme, the Coordinator, Youth Wing of NASFAT A d e y e m i Kamonrudeen said they organise the Dawah week to propagate Islam and engage Muslim youths on the need to imbibe spirit of oneness as propagated by Prophet Muhammed and work for the development of •From Left: Adeyemi Kamoruden, Ibraheem Kamarudeen and Alfa Hisa •The Secondary Schools Students during the Quiz and Quran Competition. Nigeria.

Ridwanullahi, the Quran competition panelists

•New couple, Mr and Mrs Adebayo Owoseni.

2017 Calisthenics Final Competition At Osogbo City Stadium, Osogbo Last Saturday.

Siblings Celebrate Graduation From Islamic School

•Abdul-Mateen (left) and Aliyat during the graduation ceremony.

Photo: GBENGEA ADENIYI.

•Groom parents, Mr and Mrs Owoseni.

Nigeria Army Officer Ties Knot With Spouse The ancient town of Offa in Kwara State was the host city of dignitaries last Saturday, as Mary got married to her better half, Adebayo Owoseni, an Officer of the Nigeria Army.

Saturday 25 th November would forever remain memorable in the annals of history for both families of the new couple, as their children, Mary Oladapo and Bayo graduated from spinsterhood and bachelorhood into the realm of solemnization.

The engagement of the two love birds was held at Oluode’s compound, Offa, Kwara State on Saturday 25th November 2017 during which Owoseni family came forward with the formal proposal and items requested by the Oladapo family to have their

daughter’s hand in marriage.

The programme marking the solemnization of the Holy matrimony between Adebayo and Mary held on the same day.

Nigeria Army Officers, Members of C.A.C Agbala Itusile, Osogbo, Zion Baptist Church member Itafa Offa and other important personalities joined other dignitaries who witnessed how Adebayo and Mary were formally declared husband and wife.

The atmosphere was frenzy, elation filled the air and the joy of the new couple was best encapsulated in the way they danced into the reception venue and acknowledging cheers and best wishes from their retinue of friends, guests, admires and well wishers.

•A cross section other graduands at the programme.

By Pelumi Fasoyin

It was a joyous and memorable day for Master Abdul-Mateen and Miss Aliyat Hammed as they celebrated their graduation after completing their Quranic Education at Ridwanullahi Islamic School.

The event which took place on Saturday, 25th November, 2017 at Akankan Area Ede, Osun State was largely attended by several clerics, arabic students, family members and friends.

The cleric of the Islamic school, Alfa Abdul-Akeem Usman admonished the students to be dedicated in studying the holy Quran and also be dedicated by attending Islamic schools, as they still need to learn more about the Holy Quran.

The graduating students appreciated their parents, Mr. and Mrs Rafiu Hammed, clerics and immediate family members for the support given to them throughout the duration of their Arabic school.

OUR SOCIAL REGISTER IS OPEN FOR YOUR SOCIAL ACTIVITIES TO BE MADE PUBLIC

•A cross section of Students during the calisthenics display.

Spaces are available for your anniversaries such as weddings, house-warming and chieftaincy title ceremonies among other for your take. To take advantage of this, you can reach out to Murtala, 08023280935, Kazeem 08062207954 and Nike on 07032594744 Let the public know what you are doing.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 1 - THURSDAY DECEMBER 7, 2017

TAX MATTERS

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Christmas Fashion Accessories FASHION It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas and we all know what that means. It’s time to do your best in red, green and white attires, whether you are dressing for a holiday party which is the perfect opportunity to sparkle a little extra bright or for a cold night of carolling, you’ll want to show off your holiday spirit in style. With a season full of family, good friends, delicious food and festivities, who does not love the holiday?

Fashionable women find this time of the year particularly enjoyable, thanks to so many opportunities to flaunt personal style, so why not make it festive during the holiday? I’m not talking about just ugly sweaters but nice scarfs and santa dresses.

Buying clothing as a present for someone who is already a fashionista can be highly daunting. The perfect gift will seem elusive and haunting for it may prove to be time consuming

not to mention stressful. Wouldn’t it be perfect if you could skip the crowd and find a gift that is a guaranteed c r o w d pleaser?

D o n ’ t forget you have to make sure you are looking good.

When it comes to holiday gift ideas for women, no one is more fun to shop for than the ladies who love fashion and know a thing or two about clothes and accessories.

You could get a lady mac red lipstick, trust me she’ll appreciate it a lot as this gift item isn’t just for the Christmas festive period, but would as well be very useful when going for parties and other outings.

Bracelets: Many girls and women love to wear these bracelets, as they come in attractive styles and make their hand look beautiful.Bracelets can be worn on every outfit, it just depends on the

kind of bracelets you WITH choose to wear because not all kinds TEMITOPE of bracelets are worn AKINYELE on any outfit. So, why don’t you get her When it comes that nice to buying a lady a looking gift, there are so bracelet many items to t h i s choose from; from festive clothes, shoes, period. scarfs, jewelleries, Glittering hand bags, phone Earrings: pouch, makeups A r e and so on. fashion accessories which if used This holiday season, there are well will add to the intensity of your different accessories to decorate general appearance, they also create your home with e.g. Christmas tree a sense of liberty for every person and Christmas light. These who wears them. Earrings two decorations are the have a certain way of most common kinds making you look of Christmas more attractive decorations in and for you to any Nigerian get the look home, as all you want kids love from your those little earring, you sparkling need to know light bulbs the particular w i t h type of different earrings you colours. Why would wear don’t you go with each outfit. out there in the Getting your spirit of spouse a set of Christmas, get some earrings that will light nice decorations and up in the dark be it diamond have fun with your family or pearls is just one of the best while decorating your house.

Christmas gift ever.

The Risk Of Child Labour And Hawking Despite all efforts by governments at various levels to stop child labour and hawking, those who engage in it seem to be adamant by not abiding by the laws that had been enacted in this regard. The legislative arms of Nigeria at various levels are trying their best to put an end to this dastardly act.

On some occasions, there have been cases whereby children were seen to be labouring to cater for themselves, probably because of lack of parental care. There are also cases of parents or guardians forcing children to hawk around after or during school hours. There are such cases in some strategic places in Osun, like Gbongan junction, Sekona, Owena, e.t.c.

Besides, the high level of diverse and tedious jobs that children being used for child labour are dangerously engaged in is particularly nerves-cracking.

Examples of these jobs are street vendors, hawking, begging, car washing, and shoe cobbling. Other works are domestic servants and many more.

In the olden days, it is an expected tradition for children to work with their families, but today children are forced to work outside their home environments for their own and their family survival. The children meander through the ever busy roads in the metropolis hawking items like plantain chips, locust

LAW & U WITH

DEBBIE OBASA

beans (Iru), popcorn, groundnuts, banana, pepper, soaps, soft drinks, water, e.t.c.

It is clear that in spite of all the efforts of the state government to fight this menace, a large number of people are not ready to yield, hence, there is the need for the government to up the ante of its efforts. This is because, when tourists and visitors are coming into the state, these are the first things they tend to see and which might create negative impression about the state.

Part of the measures the state government can use in putting a

stop, is to create an agency that will fight on its behalf. The agency has to facilitate laws and rules that will guide against this problem.

Some Of The Risk · A lot of saddening stories of hit and run drivers killing and maiming those future leaders. · These child hawkers suffer fatigue · Exposure to risk of sexual abuse among the female hawkers. · Irregular attendance in school or don’t even go to school. · They are exposed to illegal vices such as stealing, hijacking, e.t.c

· Improper socialisation, they tend to socialise with the wrong people just trying to sell their products, and these people use this to promote personal interests. For, examples, armed robbers negotiating with a child hawker to help hide his weapons (guns) for a ransom. · They become financial independent at a young age. The extra income they bring is needed to augment that of the parents and consequently, the value of acquiring formal education and skills is unattractive to them. Some use this as a venture under the guise of raising funds for their education or skills acquisition.

However, the agency that would be set up by the government must facilitate strict implementation of the existing laws against child labour and ensure imposition of fines and strict punishments on anyone who disobeys or doesn’t abide by the rules.

This is just as a unit of such agency would deal with supervision of the children going to school and engaging in extra lessons or skills acquisition.

12

OSUNDEFENDERwww.osundefender.org

NEWS

FRIDAY DECEMBER 1 - THURSDAY DECEMBER 7, 2017

Team Lobbies Osun Assembly Over Constitutional Amendment

By Israel Afolabi

The State of Osun House of Assembly will soon come up with a position regarding the proposed constitutional amendment by the National Assembly.

The speaker of the According to him, “I State parliament, Hon. am very impressed with Najeem Salaam stated reception of the House of this at the Assembly Assembly and by their complex while legislative experience addressing the plenary during the interactive in which a group called session”.

Friends of Democracy in “We needs to deeply Nigeria led by Senator strengthen those Olorunnibe Mamora institutions for our was received recently. democracy to have stand The speaker who was in Nigeria”, he added. represented by the He commended the deputy speaker Hon. State of Osun House of Akintunde Adegboye in Assembly for their his opening remarks legislative experience appreciated the friends and exposure in the of Democracy in Nigeria entire south west. team for their advocacy He gave kudos to visit to the state governor of the State of Assembly.

Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Adegboye said, we are Aregbesola for here to prolong the life of i n t r o d u c i n g Democracy in our parliamentary system of country, Nigeria. governance in Local However, in his Government in other to remarks, the leader of reduce the cost of the team, Senator governance in the state.

Mamora commended He urged the the lawmakers for the Assembly to have audience granted the common goal towards team. the proposed Mamora who is the c o n s t i t u t i o n a l former speaker of Lagos amendment for the State House of Assembly future of the Country. solicited for the He said Nineteen (19) cooperation of Osun clauses bill is going Assembly for the through process in the c o n s t i t u t i o n a l amendment. amendment proposed In his goodwill by the National message, the former Assembly. member House of

Representative Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele thanks the honourable members for their reception. Hon Bamidele said these amendments will enhance budget and governance process and strengthen government Institutions.

He added that it will strengthen Electoral System and Judicial System as well.

According to him, “this amendment will give strength to Local Government Autonomy and key Accountability institution in the Country”.

“For each item/clause to be successfully amended, it will require a simple majority in at least 24 out of the 36 States Houses of Assembly, while the States Houses of Assemblies has the constitutional mandate to vote on the amendments”.

He added.

In their various

workers since the state had been unable to pay workers and pensioners their full salary assured pensioners and workers in the state that the Governor would pay all their outstanding salary arrears and pensions by April next year.

The former NLC boss however, urged the workers to pray God make it easy and to prevail on those eligible to pay tax to do so.

According to him, “When there was money, the State Governor paid

Comrade Hassan Sunmonu, the pioneer president of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has stated that the Governor of Osun State, Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola would pay all outstanding salaries and pensions owed workers and pensioners by April, 2018.

Sunmonu said this as a with the theme, discussant at the En- “Governance Delivered”, Route Rauf series II event an event organised by the Oranmiyan group in commemoration of the 7th anniversary of Governor Aregbesola in office.

Sunmonu who had been mediating between have paid heavily for the government and their school fees which is more than N100,000:00, accommodation, feeding and also academic materials.

The Secretary to the Government of the State of As at the time of filing Osun, Alhaji Moshood Olalekan Adeoti, has this report, the manage- congratulated the lawmaker representing Obokun ment of the school, is yet State Constituency, Honourable Tubosun to set the record straight with an official state- Oyintiloye on his nomination for an award by PILAS as the Most Outstanding State House of ment.

The one year industrial Assembly Member in Nigeria. training programme is a This was contained in DEFENDER on compulsory prerequisite a congratulatory Thursday. for the HND programme message sent, signed by According to him, the and there is no provision the SSG and made award couldn’t have for waiver from the Naavailable to OSUN come at a better time in tional Board for Technical Education (NBTE), the agency regulating the activities polytechnics in The 2017 General Convention of the Truth Living Nigeria.

even 13th month out of state money, it wasn’t negotiated by anybody, the Governor just felt it was right.

“It was when money stopped coming from the Federal Government the Governor had to pay the half salaries of some levels but be rest assured that he will pay the outstanding salaries and pensions by April 2018.

“Let’s pray God make it easy and pay our taxes.

By April 2018, the State Government will not owe anybody again.”

Osun SSG Congratulates Oyintiloye

TLECC Holds Its Annual Convention

Dissension In The Parties of Publicity, Research and Strategy, Barrister Kunle Oyatomi disclosed that no members of the party were angry to the extent of wanting to leave the party because they love the APC, its leaders and the Governor, as well as its achievements.

He disclosed that what happened is a reflection of the popularity of the party in the state and it is an integral part of any democratic settings,

come up with its position on the constitution amendment”.

•The Armed Forces Command and Staff College Jaji Nigeria honours Rtd. Col. Enibukun Oyewole, the Commandante of OYES during its study tour to the State of Osun on National Security and Youth Empowerment, recently.

By Damilola Olujide

Involves In Sharp Practice

•Continued from page 3 launch the party back into the heart of the electorates across the state.

From the two major parties in the state angry members are abound waiting for any opportunity to present itself, especially if the political parties fail to address the crisis threatening to tear the parties apart.

However, the Director

advocacy visit to Osun.

“They said the House of Assembly will soon

Aregbesola ‘ll Pay Outstanding Salaries, Pensions - Sunmonu

Exposed: Popular Osun School Students of Interlink Polytechnic, Ijebu-Jesa are complaining of an alleged extortion from the school management.

The latest complaints is September, 2017. about the school manageAccording to them, ment allegedly collecting they were supposed to be the sum of twenty thou- undergoing the IT sand naira from students programme but the manwho applied for Higher agement of the school alNational Diploma legedly told them to (HND) programmes waive the training without undergoing the programme and apply compulsory one year in- for HND programme dustrial training known only for the school to turn as IT. around and tell them that Majority of the stu- they have to pay the sum dents who were com- of N20,000:00 as a plaining were from the waiver.

Department of Mass OSUN DEFENDER reCommunication, who porter gathered that this finished their National development was not in Diploma programmes in their best interest as they

reactions the honourable members commended the team for their

where individuals protest when things did not go their way. “ To protest the outcome of a primary election is part of democratic process worldwide, but I am assuring you that no member of APC is trying to dump it for another party because there is no alternative to APC in the state and in Nigeria as a whole”, he added.

Evangelical Church of Christ will take place at the Solution Camp Ground, Kilometre 4 Papllanto-shagamu express way Orile-Igbein, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area, Ogun State, Nigeria between 11th 17th December 2017.

This was contained in a summit, ministerial training release at the end of its 2nd and lots more.

According to him, “there pastor’s conference/leader executive meeting held in will be adivine holistic November at its National impart on all those who Camp Ground by the Public attend and the celebration Relation Officer (PRO) of service on Sunday will the church, Elder Afolabi change life for better”.

The ministering Pastors Oluseyi Israel.

Pastors Samuel He said this year’s are; convention is themed: Oladesu, Pastor Michael “Riches of His Glory” will Olusola, Pastor Kehinde Evangelist feature solution, live praise Ezekiel, worship, healing, Solomon Olayiwola, Elder deliverance crusade, film Banjoko Israel, Pastor show, single/married Emmanuel Omonayajo, summit empowerment Elder Emmanuel Okunola

view of the lawmaker’s contributions to debates on the floor of the State House of Assembly.

“I thank God for your life as the award is an evidence of your unwavering efforts in contributing your own quota to the development of democracy in our great country Nigeria.

“The award is also an acknowledgement of your contribution to good governance in Osun in particular and the nation in general,” he stated.

Alhaji Adeoti however admonished Honourable Oyintiloye to see the award as a clarion call to further dedicate his life to the development of his fatherland.

“The award should serve as the desired tonic to gear you further into becoming a role model for the younger generations who should learn from you that no good effort will go unnoticed.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 1 - THURSDAY DECEMBER 7, 2017

OSUNDEFENDER www.osundefender.org

13

Physician Advises On Dangers Of Dehydration Nigerians from all walks of life have been advised to drink plenty of fluids and eat lots of foods that contain liquid like vegetables to avoid being dehydrated, especially as the dry season occasioned by the onset of harmattan is around the corner.

In describing dehydration, Dr. Ojenuwah Sunday, the main speaker at an enlightenment programme organised to enlighten members of the public on the dangers of dehydration during the dry season explained that it was as a situation where the body looses more fluid than is ingested or the body does not have enough water and other fluids to carry out its normal functions, saying, failure to replace these fluids results in dehydration.

Dr. Ojenuwah who spoke on “Dehydration: Steps To Prevention” revealed that anybody no matter how healthy physically, might become dehydrated but the condition was especially dangerous for young children and older adults.

He stressed that the common cause of dehydration in young children is severe diarrhoea and vomiting, adding that older adults naturally have a lower volume of water in their bodies and may also have conditions or take medications that increase the risk of dehydration.

“Causes of dehydration may

With FRANCIS EZEDIUNO

•Dr Sunday

include any of the following, diarrhea, vomiting, fever, excessive sweating, and increased intimation. This means that even minor illnesses such as infections affecting the lungs or bladders can result in dehydration in older adults.

“Dehydration can also occur in any age group, if you do not drink enough water during hot weather especially if you are exercising vigorously or exposed to heat.

“You can usually reverse mild to moderate dehydration by drinking more fluids but severe dehydration needs immediate medical

treatment”, he added.

In his submission, signs and symptoms of dehydration may differ by age, saying, for infants and young children, it includes: dry mouth and tongue, dry crying, no wet diapers for upward to three hours, sunken eyes and cheeks, sunken soft spot on top of skull and irritability.

Adult signs and symptoms include: extreme thirst, less frequent urination, dark coloured urine, fatigue, dizziness and confusion.

The medical resource person maintained that often than not,

Down The Memory Lane: That Fateful Friday Judgment It was just like yesterday. That fateful Friday of 26th November, 2010.

It was “Jimoh Oloyin” (Honey- sweet, or even, Good Friday) to the Progressives, having that day, won a three and half-years long legal battle to regain an almost lost mandate. But to the reactionary government then in power, it was too bitter to swallow, a concoction of sorts, forced down their throats by the God-fearing Appeal Court judges sitting in Ibadan, to make them pack their bags and baggage from the Oke Fia seat of Osun power for the new resident. It was like any other day and we had all almost lost hopes, thinking that the judgment will favour the incumbent government. So, many did not really place any premium on it before the final judgment was delivered. We all went our different vocations as all hopes were almost lost to the untidy democracy we ran.

Then, it came almost like some unserious rumour from some individuals with wishful thinking.

And almost like a flash of lightening, the news story in towns all over the South-west was that the Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan had declared that the ‘troublesome’ man, who won’t let go of his ambitions, despite all threats, bricks and brimstone, Rauf Aregbesola, as the authentic winner of the election held some three and a half years earlier. It was too miraculous to be believed. How on earth would someone who had been denied his mandate for such a pretty long time

dehydration occurs for simple reasons which may be as a result of lack of drinking enough water due to sickness, busy schedule or lack of access to safe drinking water during long distance travels.

Ojenuwah noted everybody is prone to dehydration but certain people are at greater risks.

“Infants and children, older adults, people with chronic diseases, people who work or exercise outside are amongst the category that fall within groups that are prone to dehydration”.

He was quick to point out that failure to treat the condition promptly could lead to serious complications including, heart injury, urinary and kidney problems, seizures, low blood volume shock otherwise known as hypovolemic shock.

In proffering ways to prevent dehydration, drinking plenty of fluids and eating of foods high in water such as fruits and vegetables were suggested as compulsory.

“People may need to take in more fluids, if they are experiencing conditions such as vomiting and diarrhoea, strenuous exercise, hot or cold weather and illness.

Truth Of The Matter with

AYEKOOTO ayoakinola444@gmail.com

come out victorious just few months to the end of that same tenure which he still sought, if not for some divine interventions?

Well, less than twenty-four hours after that historic declaration, Saturday, November 27, 2010, the Government Technical College, Osogbo, “Osun State” (before the rebranding) playing ground was filled far beyond capacity. This testified to the expectancy of the people of Osun and even beyond for this sudden but deserved change in the baton. Even though, Ayekooto had its hands filled with tasks in far away Lagos, but had to jettison all to be part of history, even with sparse knowledge of the terrain of the city and State, and even of the man, Ogbeni, the main beneficiary himself.

Two incidents witnessed by Ayekooto on that fateful day said so much about the situation of things in Osun prior to the coming of the peoples’ Oranmiyan. One, funny though, but with serious security

One, funny though, but with serious security implication: the new governor’s GSM handset was stolen! A dose of what’s on ground in the state, you will say. “He needed to be served to know how it pains”.

implication: the new governor’s GSM handset was stolen! A dose of what’s on ground in the state, you will say. “He needed to be served to know how it pains”. If such personality could lose his handset, how safe were properties of the ordinary folks?

And it tells of the security situation of the state prior to Ogbeni’s ascendancy.

Two: everything went well despite the huge crowd that witnessed the November 27, 2010 swearing-in of Ogbeni Aregbesola from within and outside the state. This was obviously not because the security situation met on ground was perfect but because the participants in the swearing-in (both spectators and the celebrating incoming party) were orderly themselves. At the end of the ceremony, when everyone was heading back home or to their various vehicles parked far-away from the venue, an elderly woman, among the spectators engaged herself in

soliloquy, in local dialect, perfectly heard by Ayekooto, said: “Awon Omoluabi ni yi o. Ti o ba je awon ara ibi ni, won a ti maa sa ara won l’ada kiri” and literally translated: these people are the virtuous. If it were the other ones (referring to the gatherings of members of the erstwhile ruling party), they would have been engaging themselves in free for all with dangerous weapons.

This elderly woman’s involuntary outbursts said it all about the outgoing cohorts and the incoming administration and Ayekooto almost burst into tears of joy as our State had finally been liberated.

Or, hasn’t it, seven years after? Be the judge.

14

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CRIME

FRIDAY DECEMBER 1 - THURSDAY DECEMBER 7, 2017

Court Remands Suspected Killers Of UNIOSUN Student In Prison

By Williams Michael

bail of the fourth and fifth defendants who were earlier granted bail

by an Osogbo Magistrates’ Court on self recognition.

She thereby ordered that all the five accused be remanded in Ilesa

An Osun High Court in Osogbo on Tuesday ordered the remand of five persons in Ilesa prison custody over the alleged murder of UNIOSUN student. was read to them by the criminal law.

By Sadiat Laisi The defendants court clerk.

It also disclosed that include; Yusuf Kareem Counsels to the A 23-year old Adegbola Niyi has been arraigned the suspect assaulted one ,18; Ayuba Ibrahim,20; defendants, Mr Alayo before an Osogbo Magistrate court presided over A b d u l r o f i u Abayomi and Mr by Magistrate, Mrs Adejumoke Olowolagba for Tijani Yusuf by beating him him up and Sakariyau,19; Isiaq Kazeem Badmus, Yusuf ,40 and prayed the court to grant disturbing and disorganising peace of the people. attacking him with a broken bottle to the According to the Abdulkareen Adeoti ,50. their clients who accused person The Presiding Judge, pleaded not guilty bail in charge sheet, the accused conducted himself in a extent of sustaining person committed the manner likely to cause injury on his head Justice Kudirat Akano, the most liberal terms. to and ordered the remand of Justice Akano offence on November 10, breach of peace by contrary punishable under section the defendants due to overruled the bail 2017 at about 11:30 pm at disturbing and 355 of the state criminal the gravity of the capital application and ordered Pavilion Bar, Oke Fia, disorganising the people law. offence committed. the defence counsels to Osogbo. at pavilion bar contrary The accused person The State Prosecution come with formal The charge sheet to and punishable under Counsel, Dr Bashir written addresses for the disclosed that the section 249(d) of the pleaded not guilty to the two count charges Ajibola, told the court that the defendants committed the offence on June 26, 2017 at Oke – Baale area, Osogbo.

Ajibola said the suspects indecently interfere with the body of one late Timileyin Sonibare, by cutting his head, hand and other parts of the deceased body.

He said the offence contravened sections 516, 319, 242 and punishable under section 319(1) of the criminal code cap 34 volume 11.laws of Osun State 2002.

Kareem, Ibrahim, Yusuf, and Adeoti pleaded not guilty while only Sakariyau pleaded •A team of armed police officers, driving in a mini-bus in altercations with a passerby, accusing him of being a guilty when the charge “Yahoo boy” in front of GT Bank, Ogo-Oluwa, Osogbo, recently.

prison custody till the next date of adjournment on December 15 for hearing.

Man In Court For Disrupting Public Peace

Court Remands Robbery Suspects In Prison

By Olanrewaju Olaniyi

An Osogbo magistrate court has ordered that three accused persons be remanded in Ilesa prison custody over alleged stealing and armed robbery.

The charge sheet read Nigeria 2004. in the court disclosed The accused persons, that the accused persons Vincent Kelly, 27; Lawal on August 31, 2017 at Quadri, 22 and Omoniyi about 14:00 hours in Adeboye, 28, were said Osogbo conspired to have armed together to commit themselves with guns, felony to wit armed cutlasses and other robbery, contrary to dangerous weapons and section 6(b) and robbed one Paul Bou of punishable under one Samsung Galaxy S6 section 1(i) of the with phone number robbery and firearm 08185706481 and (special provision) Act +9617024094, one Nokia Cap RII volume 14 laws phone with phone of the federation of number 09030000862,

one Samsung Galaxy S3 phone with the cash sum o f N1,200,000,punishable under section 1(2) (a)(b) of the Robbery and Firearm (Special Provision) Laws of the federation of Nig 2014.

The charge sheet further disclosed that the accused persons armed themselves with the aforementioned weapons and robbed one Nasser Mustapha of one Dell laptop, laptop bag and one Samsung Galaxy S5 with phone number 08176362360, punishable under

section 1 (2) (a) (b) of the Robbery and firearm (Special Provision) laws of the federation of Nigeria 2004.

Also, the accused persons robbed one Engineer Oladimeji of his Power Bank set and cash sum of N100,000 punishable under section 1(2) (a) (b) of the robbery and firearm (special provision) Act cap RII vol 19 laws of the federation of Nigeria 2004.

It also stated, that the accused persons robbed one Bello Banjo of his Samsung S3 phone with

phone number 09056405731, punishable under section 1(2) (a) (b) of the robbery and firearm (special provision) Act cap RII vol 14 laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.

The plea of the accused persons were not taken as the court lack jurisdiction to take such pleas.

The Magistrate, Mrs. Oloyade ordered the accused persons to be remanded in Ilesa prison custody till December 1, 2017, for definite hearing.

Man Docked Over N850,000 Theft

By Oluwapelumi Fasoyin

The Osun state police command has arraigned a 48 years old man, Rasheed Akanbi before an Osogbo Magistrate court for allegedly stealing roofing sheets. to and The charge sheet read contrary under in the court disclosed punishable that the accused person section 419 of the intended to defraud criminal code law of Yetunde Olokose by Osun, 2003.

It stated that the obtaining the sum of N850, 000 under the accused person stole false pretence of the property of the roofing a duplex victim by converting building, an offence the sum of N850, 000

thereby committing offence contrary to section 383 and punishable under section 390(9) of the state penal code.

It further disclosed that the accused person committed the offence in the month of September, 2017 at Ogo-Oluwa area in Osogbo.

The accused person pleaded not guilty to the two-count charge

leveled against him.

The defence counsel, Mr M. Balogun prayed the court to grant his client bail in the most liberal terms.

The police prosecutor Sergeant Ajayi Sunday did not oppose the bail application as made by the suspects’ counsel.

The presiding Magistrate, Mrs. Fatimah Sodamade admitted the accused to

bail in the sum of N500, 000 with one surety.

She then adjourned the case till December 28, 2017.

CHANGE OF NAME That I, formerly known as OLANIYI SAMSON BABATUNDE, OLANIYI OLAMILEKAN SAMSON with date of birth 02-02-1992, now wish to be known and addressed as OLANIYI OLAMILEKAN SAMSON with date of birth 15-04-1993. All former documents remain valid.

SKYE Bank and general public should take note of this.

leveled against him.

The Defence Counsel, Mr Bola Abimbola prayed the court to grant the accused person bail in the most liberal term and assured the court that the accused person will provide reliable sureties.

The magistrate granted the accused person in bail in the sum of N500,000 with two sureties and adjourned the case till December 28,2017 for hearing.

Visa Racketeer Docked

By Christianah Michael A middle aged man, Yinusa Adio has been arraigned before an Osogbo magistrate court presided over by magistrate Fatimoh Sodamade over alleged stealing and fraud.

According to the charge sheets the accused person sometimes in 2017 among themselves conspired to commit felony to wit stealing contrary to and punishable under 516 of the criminal code cap 34 vol ii laws of osun state of Nigeria 2003.

It also disclosed that the accused person and others at large illegally obtained the total amount of N1,471,000, property of one Bashiru Aderemi Lawal, N810,000 from one Akinleye Wasiu and N280,000 property of one Ajibola Ismail Olalekan.

They also obtained the sum of N1,332,000 from one Risiwat Folake Akano with pretence to help them produce travelling Visa to Saudi Arabia contrary to and punishable under section 419 of the criminal code cap 34 vol. ii laws of osun state of Nigeria 2003.

The accused person pleaded not guilty to the four count charges leveled against him.

Defense counsel, Mr. Adediran Abiodun urged the court to admit the accused person to bail on a liberal term and assured the court that the accused person will not abused the privilege.

The presiding magistrate Mrs. Fatimoh Sodamade admitted the accused person to bail in the sum of N2,000,000 with one surety and adjourned the case to December 28, 2017 for hearing.

NEWS

FRIDAY DECEMBER 1 - THURSDAY DECEMBER 7, 2017

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15

Osun Assembly Order OSSCE Ila To Reinstate Staff to order in the college.

By Israel Afolabi Bamisayemi frowned The State of Osun House of Assembly has at the decision of the management and directed the office of Higher Education to embark on physical assessment of reinstatement and governing council of the on the reintegration of disengaged staff members of the institution tertiary institutions to ascertain the level of disengaged staff.

However, in his compliance with government directive. reaction, the Board Chairman House according to him was just Chairman of the College, Committee on Education, being punished unduly.

He has instructed the Chief Niyi Akande who Folorunso Bamisayemi was represented by Hon. gave the directive last Ministry of Education to Yinusa Akintola Tuesday at an interactive go round and put things meeting with the management of the Osun State College of Education Ila-Orangun at

By Murtala Agboola the House of Assembly Members of the general public have been called Complex Osogbo.

Bamisayemi said the upon to readily supply useful information to the meeting was called to police and testify in court if need be. know the progress of the “Without concrete The appeal was made reinstatement of the by the Divisional Police evidence which courts disengaged staff Officer (DPO) of Ataoja rely on, cases are easily members of the college.

Police Divison, Mr dismissed, when that According to him “as a Clement Agbemoroti at happens, members of the responsible and the monthly meeting of public easily attribute it responsive committee, the Police Community to either bribe or we call this meeting to Relations Committee underhand dealings by know how well things (PCRC) at the division the police”, he disclosed. are in the College”.

He urged communities recently.

“We discovered that Agbemoroti who that engage the services the school governing spoke through Mr of vigilante to ensure that council did not comply Adeniran Emmanuel, the they operate within their with the state governor’s Divisional Crime Officer limits. directive on the (DCO) said some people Agbemoroti said even reinstatement of some of when they are attacked or though men of the the institution’s staff, duped easily call on the vigilante group are not especially the school police to come to their authorised to arrest a librarian who was relief rescue. Unfortunately thief or a criminal, they of his job” he added. enough, when the can easily alert the police He who also noted that culprits are to come to their rescue. the report indicating that apprehended, The police Chief they the college Authority has barely cooperate with the further reiterated the fact not fully complied with police to provide useful that PCRC members are the directive cited the information in the “civilian police” who can case of an individual who prosecution of the case. arrest criminals and hand

attributed the situation to the case which is still in court.

He also added that the governing council has not yet met since the reinstatement order by the state governor.

In his response, the provost of the college, Prof. Isaac Oyewole said the management is not witch-hunting any staff

of the college, but rather trying to sanitise the system.

He also added that when there is a directive to reinstate the disengaged staff members, the management had to verify and make due consultations from the governing council.

He promised that all

these issues would be sorted out this week at the council meeting.

In their separate remarks, other members of the committee, Hon. Abiodun Awolola urged the Governing Council and the School Management to adhere to the state government’s directive for peace to reign in the college.

Be Ready To Provide Useful Information For Prosecution - woman PolicewhoChief identified them over to the police.

He however warned that such criminals should not be beaten.

Members of the PCRC were told of a recently purchased Bajaj motorcycle which was lost due to the stupidity and greed of the owner.

Two people boarded a motorcycle to a popular eatery in old Governor’s area of the state capital.

On getting there, the motorcyclist was asked to wine and dine with them, his passengers.

At a point, one of the passengers asked for the key to the newlypurchased motorcycle to go home and get more money. The motorcyclist freely offered the key because he was drunk.

He kicked-started the motorcycle machine while the attempt by the second person to hop on the motorcycle away

with it, woke the drunk motorcyclist from his slumber.

The man with the motorcycle fled away but the second person was arrested. The motorcycle was later recovered at Sekona where it was abandoned.

In a related development, a member of the PCRC counselled the people to be cautious particularly in the evening and night when riding motorcycle.

He, in another informative story, narrated how he spotted a polythene bag abandoned in the middle of the road at Iludun area of the state capital recently. On picking the bag, he discovered that it contained N21,000 (Twenty one thousand naira only) and a handset.

On getting home, a

herself as the owner of the missing but found handset called persistently, she came with her husband to explain how she lost the money and the handset.

The woman said she took a motorcycle to OkeBaale from Testing ground bus stop through the dusty Ona Baba Ona route.

Along the way, the cyclist brought out a rifle and demanded that the woman drop all the money with her. On sighting the rifle the woman complied but in an attempt to push the polythene bag into his pocket, it fell on ground.

It was then the good Samaritan saw and picked it up.

The general public were advised to be security conscious by putting on security lights in their homes at night.

PUBLIC NOTICE (Change Of Name)

This is to notify the general public that OSUN STATE INVESTMENT COMPANY (OSICOL), an Investment arm of the State of Osun Government is now to be known and addressed as “OMOLUABI HOLDINGS LIMITED”.

All former documents remain valid.

Signed:

MANAGEMENT

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Osun Assembly Order OSSCE Ila To Reinstate Page 15 Staff

FRIDAY DECEMBER 1 - THURSDAY DECEMBER 7, 2017

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Separating Hypocrisy From Fake Political Group In Osun By Invitation

The 2011/2012 PENSIONERS, behaviour is a business-as-usual group run by some Osun political “godfathers,” or political elites who sponsor people to run down the present government. I am saddened by the mad (talking of madness) campaign of calumny raging against Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.

One would wonder why the players in the campaign of calumny just wished away the fact that, Aregbesola increased the amount being paid as pension by 500 per cent in 2011.

The problem of regular payment of gratuity is not peculiar to Osun; and the government has shown its readiness to pay the gratuity as soon as the state’s finances improve. It is on record that this group of pensioners had, at one time or the other in the past, lied against the Government of the state; and in specific reference, they had alleged that the government collected a tranche of the Paris Club refunds and diverted it, only for government to wait for a whole month before the actual release of the fund.

There had hardly been any month that Aregbesola’s critics had spared him and his government, even though, no one can deny that he has from day one remained very active. Across the state, Aregbesola’s government has embarked on so many projects that even his critics are wondering how he got funding and energy to execute.

Ironically, even the execution of such projects and the policies that he initiated had remained sources of criticism. The campaign of falsehood has reached a crescendo of late, from the laughable to the distracting; and everything is being thrown at it, from religion to national security.

It is worthy of note that 2011/2012 PENSIONERS is a fraction of those who retired from service in 2012 to avoid being part of the Contributory Pension Scheme.

They are the set of pensioners that are protesting, and not the entire pensioners of the state.

The time has come for the people of Osun State to separate between hypocrisy and fake political group. Hypocrites should have no place in leadership; whether in the religious, political, or cultural sectors.

The 2011/2012 PENSIONERS claim they are on a mission to rescue Osun. It is important that the people begin to show serious interest not only in the party in power but the opposition too who are using 2011/ 2012 PENSIONERS. This is because the strength of a nation’s democracy is in how vibrant the opposition is. For many discerning minds, the greatest threat to Osun’s democratic culture and obstacle to a rapid socio-economic development is not the actions or inactions of the party in power, but poor opposition’s tradition of using 2011/ 2012 PENSIONERS to protest during the death of Aregbesola’s mother and the only group of pensioners that introduced internally displaced camp in Nigeria.

The hypocrisy of this set of pensioners is accusing the government of not paying them.

It is easier said than done. Leadership is a practical thing. Leadership is by example. It is not enough to point accusing fingers. The leaders and financiers of this set of pensioners should tell the people of Osun their motive. This is one way they can shame the ruling party and gain the confidence of the people of Osun.

In fact, political opposition is to democracy what spice is to stew. The opposition is supposed to offer the electorate credible alternatives. Unfortunately, opposition parties in Osun have reduced itself to mere assemblage of alarmists and propaganda bearers. They are mostly known for raising false alarms about the government for not paying pensions. This is not the kind of political atmosphere that 2011/2012 PENSIONERS in opposition politics thrive in modern democracies. It explains why the opposition has not been able to win in Osun; giving rise to anger and frustration on the part of its leaders and financiers.

The quality of 2011/2012 PENSIONERS’ language has become not only disgusting but inciting too. They have

INWALOMHE DONALD

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Osun now ranks third behind Lagos and Rivers in the implementation of the contributory pension scheme in the country

abandoned democracy to embrace insultocracy, a negative political culture that is based on insulting political leaders. A day hardly passes without them insulting the person of the governor all in the name of pensions. Unable to manage their frustration, the colour of these pensioners’ opposition has grown from hate to that of desperation.

Apart from their penchant for raising false alarms, 2011/2012 PENSIONERS’ leaders are known for making threats before major elections. Making frivolous allegations in the press is one of them. In most cases, these alarms and allegations have only turned out to be false, particularly about bailout funds. There appears to be exhaustion in the pensioners’ unlawful romance with opposition political party with the personality, gender and whatever politics being played out in Osun State. The pensioners have deliberately resorted to cheap propaganda, mischief and blackmail to cause division in Osun. Involvement and participation of these older persons in the present politics against the government reflect the extent to which they are disintegrated from Osun society.

During the last one year, illegal political party of pensioners has emerged in Osun.

However, these pensioners suffered complete defeat because they have allowed opposition party to use them against the government in Osun. It is unrealistic for Osun pensioners to be used as a political party to criticize the government. The group is becoming a destructive problem since there is no strong opposition in Osun. The pensioners are no longer interested in issues affecting their welfare but they involved in issues of political parties as it relates to internally displaced camp and others.

It is clear that the so-called 2011/2012 PENSIONERS GROUP are obvious liars who were hired to stage protest during Governor Aregbesola’s mother burial and few days to Osun West Senatorial bye election. Their incessant political protests are unbecoming of a retired civil servant who ought to be placed and respected as a senior citizen. We know the set of pensioners that are protesting, it is not the entire pensioners of the state.

Instead of engaging in dialogue with the

government on issues bothering t h e i r minds as to how t h e i r benefits would be paid, they resulted to militant approach known to be orchestrated by opposition; telling lies and involving in character assassinations capable of destabilising the peace of the state.

It is disturbing and unfortunate that the acclaimed retirees have chosen to be blackmailing the Osun State Government and persistently constituting nuisance on the streets of Osogbo to the detriment of the peace-loving citizens through sponsored protest on the payment of gratuity and not pension. I want to describe the protest by this set of pensioners as politically motivated, as their recent action was connected with the 7th year anniversary of Aregbesola’s government in Osun State, January 2018 local government election and September 2018 governorship election in Osun. These senior citizens have been hoodwinked by the antics of those who want to play on their minds and emotions to make them appear like tools in the hands of desperate political gladiators.

These pensioners have introduced politics into the estimated N1.75 trillion bailout funds disbursed to the states and local governments that were transferred in about four tranches to some states and local governments.

As the people of Osun State warm up for 2018 electioneering campaigns for local government and governorship election, cheap propaganda by Osun pensioners thrives and makes waves in the print, electronic and social media. The Osun pensioners issue is more political than economic because of the eventual revelation.

For the record, “Osun now ranks third behind Lagos and Rivers in the implementation of the contributory pension scheme in the country”, Aregbesola had stated at the presentation of bond certificates to 159 retirees from local government and teaching service. Therefore, the initial fear about the Contributory Pension Scheme in the state was not necessary.

Protests could have been logically conceived as a normal exercise of fundamental human rights if truly the government had not been living up to its responsibility. As responsible elderly men and women who have given their best to their states in their agile days, it is my belief

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they should be more circumspect in staging protests especially at times when such actions are capable of being interpreted to mean political orchestrations from those who are desperate to blackmail the Aregbesola administration for their selfish political gains.

It does not sound good at all that the protests by this group are taking place when the government is addressing the problem of Osun pensioners. Given the commitment already demonstrated by the state government, I know this action by this group is not supported by the majority of pensioners in the state. There is no doubt that mischief-makers instigate pensioners into embarking on needless and stage-managed protests, in order to undermine efforts at resolving the pension issue.

Protests were orchestrated by some disgruntled elements and their political allies designed to undermine the effort of the state government to sustainably resolve the pension issue once and for all. Osun State government is not only committed to clearing the backlog of pension arrears but also instituting a new regime where retiree’s entitlements are not delayed.

It took Osun some years to join the contributory pension scheme after the law was passed in 2004 during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Governor Aregbesola has worked tirelessly in the last three years to key into the scheme and breaks the barrier.

Governor Aregbesola has introduced Osun State into the contributory pension scheme in line with his plan of governance activities which have typically focused on operational activities, driven by the desire to minimise the risks of administrative errors.

Governor Aregbesola has identified attributes of good pension scheme governance – largely derived from an examination of leading global pension schemes. Some of these attributes could be regarded as being within the reach of most funds – the core best-practice factors.

It is on record that Governor Aregbesola has broken the barrier of the Pension Reform Act, 2004 (“the Act”) which established a Contributory Pension Scheme for payment of retirement benefits of employees of the Public Service of the Federation, the Federal Capital Territory and the Private Sector.

Although the Act came into effect for public sector employees on July 1, 2004, implementation of the Act has started in Osun State.

•Donald writes from Benin City, inwalomhe.donald@yahoo.com

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

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