Osun Defender Online Version Of February 16, 2018

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FRIDAY FEBRUARY 16 - THURSDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2018

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VOL. 013. NO.6

N100

ISSN: 0794-8050

Osun 2018 Guber Race:

Aregbesola’s Silence Rattles APC, PDP •Aspirants Secretly Inaugurate Committees

- Page 2

•2018: Change of Guards in the State of Osun. Who the Cap fits? See Story on page 2 and commentary on back page.

NEWS

SOCIAL DIARY

Osun Assembly Oloroke Festival Celebrated Warns Governing In Grand Style PAGE 9 Council On Imminent Crisis - PAGE 3

LAUTECH:

NEWS

O’Ambulance Rescues 12,171 Victims In Four Years

PAGE 14

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FRIDAY FEBRUARY 16 - THURSDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2018

Aregbesola’s Silence Rattles APC, PDP •Aspirants Secretly Inaugurate Committees

By Kehinde Ayantunji the leadership crisis rocking the PDP in the state, the silence of the governor is also unsettling the opposition, as they are largely strategising on the choice of the governor.

OSUN DEFENDER findings indicated that the two factions in the

party are closely monitoring the choice of The silence of Governor Rauf Aregbesola over the said that the party has not who is currently serving the governor in choice of his successor has continued to rattle the officially lift the ban on in government allegedly the presenting a candidate. leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) political campaigns and inaugurated committee across the The party is considering and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. that it will be illegal for the strategy of the last candidate to nine federal constituency Aregbesola’s silence in from declaring their any last week and appointed Osun West Senatorial less than seven month to intention but we all commence campaign for party chieftains as Election whereby they the gubernatorial election know the reality that the the governorship race. coordinators in the old 31 waited till the last has a Only the Deputy local governments. has put the politicians in incumbent minutes before dilemma as many are substantial role to play in Speaker, Hon Lasun Meanwhile, apart from producing the candidate. confused on who to pitch producing a successor”. Yusuf and Barrister Governor Aregbesola Kunle Adegoke have their tent with among the for months has been openly signified their major contenders. political intentions.

Dr Ibraheem Adigun, resisting Other an APC chieftain in Ile-Ife pressure to publicly rumored aspirants in an interview with announce his preferred include the Chief of Staff OSUN DEFENDER said successor which has to the Governor, Alhaji Governor Aregbesola has made it difficult for Gboyega Oyetola, successfully established political gladiators to Secretary to the State his political domination predict his direction.

Governor, Moshood A member of the State by dictating the pace for intending aspirants and Executive Council who Adeoti; Speaker of the do not want his name in state House of Assembly, opposition parties in the print because he was not Najeem Salaam who state. authorised to speak on have not openly He said, “A pointer to the governor’s the matter told OSUN declared their ambition.

But in pursuing their dominance is that a tiny DEFENDER that the number of the interested governor has repeatedly ambitions, two aspirants aspirants are bold enough reiterated at the state from Osun West were meetings that reported to have to declare openly, while executive those who are eager the majority of those who about politics are free to constituted senatorial are also interested are just leave the cabinet. and local government grumbling without any He said, “the governor coordinators with the courage to make any has said it repeatedly task of mobilising formal public declaration that he is interested in delegates for them in the because they knew that completing most of the party primary expected whosoever that the ongoing work than to hold in June this year. governor endorses will politics of successor now, One of the aspirants •A BATTLE FOR SURVIVAL: Who wins between these two cripple men? pick the party ticket”.

Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI. and that whoever could “In the history of Osun, not exercise patience is election year has never free to leave the state been dull like this, for assignment for politics” instance, when Governor “ In fact, we were All Progressives Congress in the state of Osun has by the notoriously Aregbesola contested in expecting some of the continued, “if you vote 2007, the state has been interested executive alerted its members, supporters and friends unstable PDP, are also APC, you will be voting including every concerned citizen of the state that preparing for a battle bombarded with all members to have for continuity, but if you manner of political resigned their the epic battle for the soul and future of the state royale to upturn vote for the gang of PDP campaigns as far back as appointment in January has just started. whatever progress has opposition, you would 2005, and even during his but some of them are not been made in the state have signed the death According to the party, councillors last week. second term, by 2012, sure of the choice of the “the critical first stage of “That is a positive sign since 2010. warrant of Osun because despite that the governor governor, I can bet it with that struggle has been but not without a battle “They will attempt a that party had said had no opponent, it was you that as at today, it is concluded with a for the ultimate victory, violent performance openly that it will destroy already bubbling but less only the governor that comprehensive victory worse than that of 2014; than 7 months to the next knows who he is for the APC in the last come September 2018. they will come with the everything done by the The prime adversary of APC under Ogbeni Rauf governorship election, it supporting”. government the APC and the people vengeance of hungry, Aregbesola’s leadership.

APC Director, Media local does not appeared that angry and wounded lions election and the of Osun, who are massed “In practical terms, this election is coming”, and Publicity, Bar Kunle of up in the opposition led to destroy and devour, PDP resolve means Oyatomi in an interview swearing-in Adigun said but they will be bringing a calamitous Also, a member of APC contained”, the APC evil on the state, the kind state working committee assured. who pleaded anonymity These claims were of which has never been said though the party has made in a statement witnessed since its not officially lift ban on signed by the party’s creation some 28 years political activities, but the Director of Publicity, ago. That is the kind of body language of the Research and Strategy, disaster impossible to 1.

Solemnization of Holy Matrimony of the Children of HRM, governor has forced some Kunle Oyatomi and recover from in decades”, Oba Muraina Adebanjo & Olori Omotolani Adedini and Late Prince aspirants to be made available to the the APC warned.

Aderemi& Late Mrs. Omolola Adewole. “undecided perpetually”.

“And this is telling Date: Saturday, 17TH February, 2018 media in Osogbo.

A chieftain who is a Venue: St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ayegbaju, Ile-Ife. The APC warned that, everybody who cares senatorial leader said, “what is involved in the about the future of their “the governor has 2.

Burial Service for Deacon Emmanuel Bayonle Adewuyi, Fatherand governorship election children discourage any in-Law of Oba (Dr.) Michael Odunayo Ajayi, Arowotawaye II, The this September is life- grandchildren to brace discussion on his Elerinmo of Erinmo up for the fight of a threatening for the soul successor, even when the Date: Saturday, 17TH February, 2018 lifetime come this year and the future of Osun. elders forum of the party Venue: Iwo Road Baptist Church, Ibadan, Oyo State.

“The people will be September. approached him, he Reception: Rose Event Centre, Agric Bus Stop, Opp. Foodco, “All councillors that called upon to determine Monatan, Ibadan. persuaded them to whether the state should have just been sworn in suspend the discussion at the local governments 3.

2018 Edition of the Lagos International Polo Tournament, continue with the on the matter, and to organized by Lagos Polo Club provide progress made so far should some of us who are Date: 17th – 18th February, 2018 under the leadership of leadership and impress it politician, it is a real Venue: Polo Club Street, South West Ikoyi, Lagos. the APC government, or on people of their confusion”. the vultures who localities that wisdom When the senatorial 4.

Banquet Nite by the Junior Chamber International, JCI. mismanaged the state demands that, at this leader was asked whether Date: Saturday, 17TH February, 2018 between 2003 and 2010 point in time in the state the governor formally Venue: Leisure Spring Hotel, Osogbo. should again be handed of Osun; PDP is not an asked people not to contest, he replied that a blank cheque to return alternative to APC, and 5.

N200 Million Fund Raising for the Completion of the Jama’t there is no forum where the state to the era of the that if the state must Balogun Agoro Mosque and Turbaning Ceremony of Pa. Mikael the governor told any locust under a reckless continue to develop, then Tantolorun as Jagun Adini of Balogun Agoro Mosque.

Sunday, 18TH FEBRUARY, 2018 aspirant not to declare PDP government. the only viable choice is Venue: Adebimpe Event Centre, Opp. City Stadium, Osogbo. their ambition, saying, “The choices are APC”, the party “He did not stop any one stark”, the party concluded.

Battle For The Soul Of Osun Begins, Says APC

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3

LAUTECH: Osun Assembly Warns Governing Council On Imminent Crisis

By Israel Afolabi

•Assures Health Tech Students Of Resumption

The Speaker of the Osun House of Assembly, Health Technology, Ilesa during their agitations. and the Student Union Hon. Najeem Salaam has warned the governing whose school was locked According to the council of the Ladoke Akintola University of of its reopening and parliament, “We are here Government (SUG) of the Technology to stop actions capable of truncating resumption for academic to make sure that peace school.

In his remarks, the peace in the troubled school. activities. reigns in the school and commissioner for Health, The Vice chancellor of He dropped the The Assembly in an that lecture commences Dr. Rafiu Kosamotu warning while the University Professor interactive meeting with immediately”. disclosed that many of addressing the Adedeji Gbadegesin who the governing council, “We have gone the issues have been management of the defended the total school management and through all your resolved, adding that any school who appeared budget estimate of the Students Union demands and we will moment from now the before the house to N5,468,242,400 before Government of the make sure that life is school will resume for defend its 2018 budget the legislators, pleaded institution commended more comfortable for you academic activities, for the absence of the the students for the way estimates. at all cost”, he added. specifically on Monday The Speaker who was governing council at the and manner they The Assembly advised next week. represented by the gathering. conducted themselves He said, “I appreciate Besides, the State during their protest and the School Management Chairman House to close communication the intervention of the Committee on Finance Assembly has assured the maturity displayed gap between the council House of Assembly in and Appropriation, Hon. Students of the School of Kamil Oyedele disclosed that the action of the council is likely to jeopardise the existing relationship between Oyo and Osun arising from the co-ownership status of the institution.

While reacting to the issue of the appointment of an external Auditor for the school, Salaam explained that the agreement between the two owner states was to appoint external auditor on rotational basis.

He frowned at the move by the Governing council to truncate the agreement, calling on the school leadership to strictly adhere to the •Minister of Transport, Chief Rotimi Amechi (left) answering question from Journalists during his visit to Governor understanding between Aregbesola at the Government House, Osogbo recently.

Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI. the two states in running the affairs of the institution.

In their separate remarks, other

By Francis Ezediuno local government level.

Parliamentary system lawmakers condemn the “There is no hiding the will depend on the The parliamentary system of government which truth, we all know that success story of Osun. action of the Governing council, which according the government of the state of Osun has adopted for the presidential system of “In as much as there to them, was designed to the local government administration has been given government is one that is were no electoral thumbs up by a cross section of the citizens in the rob Osun of its rightful very expensive to run but malpractices and the high cost of running since the constitution system was credible, we place in the management state.

Speaking against the government and curbing gives power to states to should let it be. of the University. and run the local “Nigeria is a The legislators noted backdrop of the victory of corruption the All Progressive administrative excesses. governments as it is a federation, where all the that Osun has displayed Speaking in support, subordinate constituent units are equal. In that maturity in the resolution Congress (APC) in the of the agelong crisis that just concluded local Mr. Isaac Adediji, a unit, then I think the case, Osun can do has almost crippled the government election popular publisher in decision of Osun to whatever it wishes within institution and ensured conducted in the state on Igbona Area of Osogbo experiment with the the confines of the its sustenance, stressing Saturday, 27th January, stated that the high cost parliamentary system constitution of the land”. the opinion of of running the should be allowed to Meanwhile, a the need to move against 2018, Nigerians was that the community leader in what they described as system was the best in the presidential system must stay. have been the reason why “Let us use Osun as a Baruwa Estate, Osogbo, management induced state considering many the state adopted case study, then the Mr. Jamiu Abdulmalik crisis in the institution. factors which included parliamentary style at the sustenance of stated that the

this lingering crisis”.

He also appreciated efforts of the governing council, management and SUG towards ensuring that the school is reopened for academic activities.

However, in his remark, the president of the Student Union Government (SUG) Musliudeen Babatunde commended the House of Assembly for the intervention. According to him, “we are all satisfy with all the outcome of the meeting”.

Meanwhile, some of the agencies of government, ministries that have appeared before the House of Assembly include Ministry of Information which defended the sum of N214,466,500, Osun State Broadcasting Corporation (OSBC) N603,299,380, Ministry of Land and Physical Planning N922,236,200 while the property D e v e l o p m e n t Corporation was step down for another day.

Others are Capital Territory Development Authority with budget estimate of N82,344,350 and New Towns and Growth Area N542,123,920.

LG Administration: Parliamentary System Gains Acceptability In Osun

Osun Workers’ Interest Captured In 2018 Budget

By Israel Afolabi The State government of Osun would fulfill its promises to the civil servants as their interest has been captured in the 2018 appropriation bill under consideration in the House of Assembly.

Chairman, House so the House of Committee on Finance Assembly would be and Appropriation, Hon. acquainted with their Kamil Oyedele gave the challenges with a view of assurance at the ongoing assisting them.

Budget estimate defence He also directed the exercise by government relevant agencies who agencies in the state have not resolved their Assembly Complex audit query to see the Osogbo. state Auditor-General, as Oyedele charged the he stated commitment to agencies to be more work on their cases after proactive as the 2018 the budget exercise. appropriation bill would He gave the assurance be revenue-driven and that Government would urged all the ministries not renege on its promise and agencies to submit to civil servants as their their revenue work plan, various interests have

been catered for in the 2018 appropriation bill.

Oyedele also urged all the ministries and agencies to continue to cooperate with the state government so as to achieve the desired objectives.

Meanwhile, other lawmakers in their separate contributions stressed the need for Government agencies to synergise and work together in the common interest of the state.

Some other agencies of government ministries and institutions that have appeared before the House of Assembly include; the Ministry of Innovation, Science and T e c h n o l o g y

N226,505,770, Ministry of Education N11,550,327,400 and Auditor General of State N123,170,740 while Osun produce department also defended its budget estimate of N129,745,147.

Others are; Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security with budget estimate of N5,081,836,322, Osun State Agriculture D e v e l o p m e n t Cooperation (OSSADEC) N121,938,830, Osun State A g r i c u l t u r e D e v e l o p m e n t Programme (OSSADEP) N276,374,890, Civil Service Commission N87,442,990 and Ministry of Human Resources and Capacity

Building N407,696,540.

CHANGE OF NAME That IYABO OBEDAT ADEBISI, TAIWO AMUDAT TAOFEEK, and OYELADE IYABO OBEDAT ADEBISI are the same person, but now wish to be known and addressed as OYELADE IYABO OBEDAT. And my correct phone number is 08132473490 not 08132473496.

All former documents remain valid. Union Bank and General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME That I was formerly known and addressed as OGUNLADE RONKE FASILAT, but now wish to be known and addressed as OGUNLADE IBIRONKE FASILAT. All former documents remain valid.

G.T. Bank and General public should take note.

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government in its wisdom had done what it thought best.

According to him, though the presidential system is expensive, the parliamentary system too had its own advantages and disadvantages.

“We have tried the presidential system in 1979, 1983, 1993 and 1999 while the parliamentary system was practiced and terminated in 1966.

“We are not asking the whole of the country to revert to this system but let each state conducts its local government affair the best way they deem fit so as to conserve funds.

“In campaigns under the parliamentary system, the electorates will vote for councillors who will in turn elect a chairman amongst themselves”.

Another community leader, Alhaji Opeyemi Olagunju observed that it was all part of the regional integration agenda that Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola had been championing.

According to him, he was happy that even the federal government has become aware of it.

He noted that prior to now, the federal government never talked of state police but of recent the vice-president, Professor Yemi Osinbajo came out publicly in support of it.

PAGE

4 The Road To 2018

IT is within the composition of the human condition that men and women have ambitions and have great dreams. This is also the nature of politics. It is therefore natural that there is a lot of jockeying as well as positioning in states like Anambra, Ekiti and Osun where elections for governorship will be held in 2017 and 2018. Unseemly as it looks, it can be argued that it is never too early to start even if it means jumping the gun.

There is however a common thread amid all of the manoeuvring which is profoundly disturbing; this is the glaring absence of a programme. Not just a general mission proposal or a statement of intent, but a well thought out and rigorously costed roadmap. The absence of this is unsettling. For at a time of economic disequilibrium, anyone aspiring to one of the great offices of state ought to come in very well-prepared. The person ought to be armed with a very sensibly worked out and realistic plan of action to withstand the economic problems caused by a society in transition.

This is because in our defective quasifederalism whoever is the helmsman of a state government will have to operate with one hand strapped to the back.

This is a difficult proposition which requires deep thinking as well as managerial sagacity. In this area of preparation, the incumbent governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has clearly set down a marker which should be established as an immutable precedent.

Aregbesola after years of diligent preparation came into office with a well thought out programme of social and

‘

For example, the statement made by Senator Iyiola Omisore, a perennial governorship aspirant declaring his intention to run was full of old fashioned vitriol, unfortunately nary a thought was given to a detailed and costed programme of action. This is a throwback to an unedifying past and is certainly not what is needed now.

’

economic growth in the state. How do we account for a situation whereby able minds in the working class get involved in road

accidents due to lackadaisical attitude of road users?

Worthy of commendation is one of the safety net programmes put in place by the government of Osun, the O’Ambulance scheme. This initiative has helped saved many lives due to the quick response health services

aspirants to follow suit. They must present to the electorate realistic, well thought programmes to continue from where Aregbesola would have stopped.

Such a programme ideally should be within the positively acknowledged “Alternative Perspectives” within which Osun has recorded such solid, in many cases landmark path-breaking achievements. To do otherwise will be akin to raising false hopes and selling the electorate what in effect will be a false prospectus. This will be fraudulent, immoral and will ultimately backfire after a lot of damage would have been wrought.

For example, the statement made by Senator Iyiola Omisore declaring his intention to run was full of old fashioned vitriol, unfortunately nary a thought was given to a detailed and costed programme of action. This is a throwback to an unedifying past and is certainly not what is needed now.

We therefore urge all the aspirants across partisan divides to do so within a much more serious template than is being observed at the moment. The State of Osun deserves candidates who will come in with the same seriousness of purpose that Aregbesola came in with. This is what makes the difference.

economic reforms, which has not just repositioned the state of Osun, but has rejuvenated it and breathed new life into the rural economy. The gains have been solid and institutional frameworks, as well as sustainable mechanisms have •This editorial, published in the April 16, 2017 been put in place for these reforms to edition is republished due to its relevance to the stand the test of time. When he finishes current political situation in Osun his second term even within the OSUN DEFENDER international and local economic difficulties, there will be long lasting Publisher – Moremi Publishing House Ltd. and irreversible achievements to showcase.

Acting Editor – Kazeem Mohammed (0806-220-7954)

Incessant Road Accidents On Our Major Roads One thorny and heartsaddening salient disaster that has become prevalent within the suburb of Osogbo and other neighbouring towns in the State of Osun is the recurrence of road accidents. Much as many encomiums would be directed to the state government for its heavily felt midas touch in the construction and rehabilitation of roads infrastructures, more still need to be done to alleviate this unbecoming disaster that has been on the rise.

Rather than often, barely a day that one wouldn’t witness or hear about a fresh road accident. The rate is quiet alarming as this would only slow down the seeming pace of

This newspaper therefore calls on all the intending

administered to road accident victims as they are designated and stationed along major routes in the State.

What need be done?

Besides the state government’s directive to ban road-side hawking and other business activities, strict measures and punishment should be placed in line for deterring traders. The State House of Assembly should enact and pass such a bill into law.

There should be an

awareness campaign by Road Safety Commission and nong o v e r n m e n t a l organisations for the teeming populace, the major road-users on the need to secure their lives from impending danger that could come to be as a result of bad road usage culture.

Faulty vehicles that break down on the roads should not be left, they should be towed away to a safety haven so as to prevent crash on the highway.

Strict punishment should be placed on road traffic defaulters too as I have many times seen fatal accidents caused by this negligible act.

• O L U W A F O Y O AKANMU. Kobongbogboe, Osogbo.

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MAGAZINE FRIDAY FEBRUARY 16 - THURSDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2018

Herdsmen Attack:

Issues And Prospects Nigeria is being confronted with the security threat of the Fulani herdsmen attack on farmers, farmlands and rural dwellers, but in the State of Osun, the government have been so proactive to prevent such attacks, as against the situation in some other neighbouring states. SOLA JACOB writes on the measures put in place by the state government.

Virtually all the states in Nigeria are counting human and infrastructural loss due to the menace of the Fulani herdsmen, which has been threatening the fabric of the existence of the country. The continuous siege of these marauders who masquerade as herdsmen had almost pitched the nation along political and ethnic lines.

The State of Osun also had its fair share on the recent menace that plagued the nation, but the proactive stance of the state government has saved the situation and averted loss of lives in the state.

According to the Commissioner for Special Duties in the state, Honourable Mudashir Toogun, it could be estimated that Osun has over 3 million cattle herds in the state but the state had not conducted census to know the actual number of Fulani herdsmen in the state.

He continued that the state had taken proactive stances since June, 2014 with the establishment of committee of Fulani/Farmers, which is the composition of representative of Ministry of Agriculture, Chairman of Fulani Community, the Bororo representative, Chairman of Agricultural Farmers Association of Nigeria, Representative of Bureau of Communication and Strategy, Traditional Institution and Women in Farming.

The committee had visited Fulani settlements across the state. The settlements are largely concentrated at Osun West Senatorial District because of the climate and Savannah nature of the area which is suitable for cattle rearing.

In the process of the visit, the

•Honourable Mudashir Toogun

committee held series of meeting with Fulani Communities which bothers on the peaceful coexistence with their host communities, as well sensitise them on the cultural values and beliefs of others.

‘

•Alhaji Oloruntoyin Suleiman, Seriki Fulani

The committee as well took time to know their need and what could enhance their peaceful living in their land of sojourn, which could make them contribute to the development and growth of the

In the last one week in the state, reports of their atrocities had been reported in Ila, as a large farm settlement was destroyed by these marauders, while information has it that presently, some parts of Ijesaland are under their siege, especially Esa Odo, Esa-Oke, Ilesa and Ila.

,

state at large.

Toogun said that three major demands were made by the Fulani’s across the state among which is Hajj slots, request for potable water for their consumption and their cattle as well as qualitative education for their wards.

It is interesting to note that Fulani women desired quality and qualitative education as reflected in their requests, and in collaboration with the state Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), nomadic schools in the state were rehabilitated and about eleven •Continued on page 6

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Herdsmen Attack:

MAGAZINE

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 16 - THURSDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2018

Issues And Prospects

•Continued from page 5

boreholes were sunk in different communities occupied by Fulanis.

This attracted the respect of the Fulani herdsmen in the state for farmers in their host communities and foster peaceful coexistence because of the foresight and proactive stance of the state governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.

However, the recent experience in the state was the migration of some armed bandits who are referred to as Bororo. According to a security report, they usually come in through Osun border from the neighbour Kogi and Kwara states.

In the last one week in the state, reports of their atrocities had been reported in Ila, as a large farm settlement was destroyed by these marauders, while information has it that presently, some parts of Ijesaland are under their siege, especially Esa Odo, Esa-Oke, Ilesa and Ila. At times, the real Fulani people in the state do not understand their language and they are not peaceful but rather militant in their dealings.

The chairman of Miyetti Allah Fulani Association in the State of Osun, Alhaji Sulaiman Oloruntoyin, who is the head of Fulani community in the state, in a chart with OSUN DEFENDER, said “they are violent in nature and in appearance, usually armed with dangerous weapon like AK47 and other sophisticated weapons, they usually move at night, they rustle our cattle”.

Oloruntoyin has since been appointed as the Special Assistant to the Governor on peaceful coexistence of Fulani Bororo Farmers in the state.

To corroborate the claims, Toogun, who is the chairman of the Peaceful Co-existence of Fulani and Farmers in the state said that with dismay, the state noticed strange movement of armed bandits who also rustled cattle of Fulanis who are law abiding in the state, saying, they are nocturnal and very destructive.

Toogun said, to combat their activities, the state has launched a surveillance team in the trouble prone points in the state, saying, “they alerted us and we have sent some of these marauders amongst the herdsmen out of the state in collaboration with other Fulani stakeholders in the state.

“The keywords are vigilance and cooperation of all and sundry which gave us feats achieved in sustenance of peaceful atmosphere we have in the state”, the Commissioner stressed.

Despite the moves of the state government to promote and sustain peaceful co-existence among various ethnic groups in the state, it does not mean that there are no minor skirmishes among the Fulanis and their hosting communities, but the committee on peaceful co-existence between the

•Herdsmen and their cattle on the roadside.

‘

It is only our collective effort that will make us to conquer them.

But if we continue to apportion blames along ethnic and religious lines, we are not doing ourselves any favour with that.

Fulani/Farmers in the state had settled almost 6,000 cases which bothers on grazing on peoples’ farms and both parties at the end of the cases always abide by the decision of the committee which premises on fairness and quality.

Even some litigations had been withdrawn by parties and resolved amicably through the committee.

This shows the level of the

’

credibility and acceptance of the committee’s verdicts by the litigants.

Marriage had always been a bonding force as well, as the Fulani’s had got married to Yoruba’s in their hosting communities, hence, the mutual relationship and respect for other peoples’ culture had come to play.

Oloruntoyin has revealed that

Will Osun Have Cow Colony?

Commissioner for Special Duties, Honourable Mudasir Toogun said, “the problem with the cattle colony is in the name itself, no one in Africa will hear the name and it will not send fear down their spine.

“Actually the intention behind it is not to colonise any place, rather it is ‘cattle ranches’.

Cattle ranches are a good business and it would provide and create more jobs; the government alone could not foot the bill of these ranches, hence, the need for the industrialists to come and grow feeds for the ranches”.

“Hardly can any state afford to fund the growing of cattle feeds and maintenance of ‘cattle ranches’, it is a big business that require private partnership.

“So, industrialists and cooperate organisations are beckon to establish cattle ranches in the state.

“To contain activities of the Bororos, only the government with its instrumental of power can’t do it.

“What has made the problem more alarming is the development that had taken over our land; we construct roads, build houses, there is population explosion but the land is fixed.

“Also, large cultivation of land is on the increase, so there is a need for cattle ranches, but it could be private business as any other business which any other person can do”.

most Fulani residents in the state are citizens by birth, saying he is the third generation of his great grandfather in Yorubaland.

“We build modern houses here, our children are in universities and we have inter-marriage. There is need for the populace to know that the issue of senseless killing across the states of the nation affects us as well. The marauders who masquerade as herdsmen rustle our cattle, just that we are lucky not to lose any lives to them in Osun. So, it is only our collective effort that will make us to conquer them. But if we continue to apportion blames along ethnic and religious lines, we are not doing ourselves any favour with that.

“To curtail the menace of these marauders, it must be the collaboration of the villagers, traditional rulers, Fulani communities, the security agents and the general publics”, he said.

According to him, the Fulani residents in the state have discovered that some farmers do invite other herders from other states to their farms to help use cattle to graze their land after harvesting, saying, this portends danger, as most of these invitees sometimes come to graze such farmers during the planting season which always result into losses for the farmers.

“Fulani residents in their host communities are known by the people and traditional rulers in such communities, any strange herders seen should be thoroughly interrogated and the villagers should quickly alert the committees.

Oloruntoyin then advised that more sensitisation and education should be carried to the rural communities, especially border villages on the need to be vigilante and report presence of strange herders to the appropriate authority.

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COMMUNITY

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 16 - THURSDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2018

Council Boss Solicits Residents’ Supports The newly inaugurated chairman of Olorunda and others.

North Local Council Development Authority Besides the leader and (LCDA), of the State of Osun, Hon. Quadri the chairman, other Owonikoko has solicited the support and co- leaders elected amongst operation of the residents in running the affairs of themselves were vicethe LCDA. The House Leader, chairman, Ajisebiyawo He made the call after Omidiran Mumini was Musbau; Deputy Leader, his inauguration as the the first to take his oath Mrs. Sakirat Adeoye. council chairman, calling of office and allegiance, Others are Mrs. on the residents to be followed by the Babatunde Rachael, Mr. prepared to make Chairman, Owonikoko Olalekan Lawal, Mr. sacrifice for the development of the council.

Owonikoko attributed The immediate past Caretaker Management the modest achievements Committee of Ilesa East Local Government Council he made in the Area of the State of Osun, led by Mrs. Olusola construction of the new Adeoye has last week distributed baby kits to secretariat complex as the expectant mothers in the council area. head of the caretaker A statement by the She added that the management committee Information Officer of the state. mama kits package of the council prior to his council, Opatunji contains important election to the sacrifice Kazeem said the gesture materials needed by the his team and the career was sequel to the pregnant women at the officers in the LCDA observation of the council point of delivery. executive that pregnancy made.

Urging mothers to visit The LCDA helmsman care consist of parental government health expressed his profound and post-parental health facilities closer to them appreciation to the Baale care for expectant for qualitative health care service, she charged the Ota-Efun, Chief Shehu mothers.

While distributing the beneficiaries of the Tijani Babatunde who kits at the council gesture to make good use provided land to the secretariat in Iyemogun of the kits.

LCDA free of charge.

Road, Ilesa, Adeoye said While appreciating the Owonikoko thanked that the distribution of gesture on behalf of the governor of the state, the items was part of the kind other beneficiaries, Mrs. Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola efforts to complement Iyiola Bolajoko expressed for the opportunity given Governor Rauf gratitude to the caretaker to him and other A r e g b e s o l a ’ s management team for to including members of the team to commitment pregnant functional health care for mothers in the scheme of serve the people. the people across the He therefore tasked the electorate to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the f o r t h c o m i n g The newly elected councillors of Orolu Local gubernatorial election in Government Council Area, Ifon-Osun have September to ensure unanimously elected their principal officers among continuity in progress all the parliamentarians that represent the whole and development in the 10 wards constituting the council.

LCDA, the state capital The event was held on Benson from ward 10 and the state in general.

Tuesday at the local was elected by the The new executive government Secretariat Parliamentarians as the chairman, said he headquarters in Ifon Chairman of the council, embarked on massive Osun and witnessed by while Adekola Toyin grading of roads as the from ward 3 was elected Executive Secretary, traditional rulers, Chiefs, which he said was highly religion leaders, party the Vice-chairman and they were sworn-in in leaders and members, appreciated by the residents because some market men and women, the presence of the Clerk the local of the House, Mr. Afonja of the areas had never and R A. witnessed any grading of government officials.

Other principal Prince Adekunle sort.

Olawale Akinjide and Mr. Olayiwola Ismail.

Among the dignitaries that graced the occasion were the Ataoja of Osogbo represented by the Ajagunna, Chief Gabriel Oparinde; the Oloba of Oba Oke, Oba Adams Bamidele Yusuf;

Baale of Ota-Efun, Chief Shehu Tijani and Baale of Alare, Chief Muili Folorunsho.

Religious leaders like the Chief Imam of Ota– Efun, Alhaji Bello Alamaliyekeen and Christian Clerics were also there.

Party leaders were not

left out. Alhaji Muftau Oladapo, Yisa Ojewale and others too were in attendance.

There was an impressive turn out of people which include family friends and wellwishers of the council officials.

Council’s Caretaker Committee Distributes Mama Kits To Pregnant Mothers things.

Other activities at the

events include free medical checkup and

medical counsel for the expectant mothers.

•A pregnant woman receiving a pack of mama kit from the former executive secretary.

Orolu Parliamentarians Elect Benson As Chairman, Inaugurate Principal Officers

Iwo East LCDA Chair Hails Aregbesola Over Parliamentary System The newly sworn-in chairman of the Iwo East Local Council Development Area, Comrade Rahman Abiola Lawal on Tuesday said Governor Rauf Aregbesola has once again written his name in gold with the introduction of the parliamentary system of administration at the local government level.

Rahman, who spoke party chieftains and shortly after being officials of the LCDA on sworn in at the Tuesday.

Olomowewe Secretariat He said, “As we all of the Iwo East LCDA, know, Parliamentary said just as he has done System is not alien to our in many other aspects of political culture, Osun’s life, Aregbesola experience and history, has introduced a system and this reminds me of that would change the the golden period of Sir Tafawa Balewa before face of politics.

It was amidst pomp the First Republic was by the and pageantry that he truncated took oath of office in the Military Adventurists on January 15, 1966. presence of many “As Governor Rauf community leaders, Aregbesola reminded us

on 6th February 2018 on the occasion of our swearing in as representatives of our respective wards, the system being ushered in ensures party supremacy and discipline.

“The system also affirms the supremacy of the political party, it personifies the view, ideology, belief and tendency of a political association, and this gives stability, reliability and predictability to the political system.

The new Chairman promised to be lawabiding as well as discharge his relative functions of office without fear or favour.

officers of the Parliament that were sworn in were; Rafiu Abiodun Durodola from ward 3 as the leader of the house, Ganiyu Isiaka from ward 7 as the deputy leader, while Jamiyu Fatai Kayode from ward 8 was elected to be the Supervisor for Orolu Administrative Office in Diisu Ayekale.

While delivering his speech, the Chairman, Prince Adekunle Benson appreciated Governor Rauf Aregbesola and the state leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by Prince Gboyega Famodun and Alh. Rasak Salinsile for giving him the opportunity, promising them that he would not let them down.

Benson then promised the entire people of the council that the six-point integral action plans of the Aregbesola administration would be adopted and total transformation and unprecedented developmental projects would be experienced and witnessed in the nooks and crannies of the council.

He said his administration has planned to assiduously work on good roads, clean environment, standard market,

waterways, electricity, potable water, food security, total empowerment, Agriculture, Security, Health, Education, Wealth creation, poverty alleviation and many more.

He then sought the cooperation and support of the members of the Parliament and Civil servants, assuring that the administration

would operate an open door policy and welcome suggestions and ideas that will assist in the development of the council.

According to him, “we need to work assiduously by tapping every available Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) base due to the local government to complement both the federal and state allocations”.

Ifelodun LG Boss Assures Commitment To Dividends of Democracy The newly elected Chairman, Ifelodun Local Government, Ikirun, State of Osun, Alhaji Lamidi Omoloye has assured residents of the commitment of his administration to do the needful in bringing dividends of democracy to the nooks and crannies of the council in no distant time.

He gave this assurance Adebisi supervised the during the swearing in election of other principal ceremony of members of officers of the parliament the council’s parliament. in the presence of the In his acceptance council Manager, Alhaja speech, Omoloye who is Salaam Musirafat and the head of government in other departmental heads; his council area Clerk of the house, Mr and commended the governor Kamorudeen of the state, Ogbeni Rauf political parties’ faithful.

Omoloye (Ward 2) was Aregbesola for i n t r o d u c i n g elected the Chairman, parliamentary system at Hassan Kamorudeen the local government (Ward 3) was elected the level, maintaining that the Vice Chairman, Alhaja system will make people Omotayo Adebisi (Ward feel the impact of 1) was elected the leader governance both at the of the house, Okunlola Mustapha (ward 4) rural and urban areas.

The elected leader of elected the Deputy the council’s parliament Leader, and Olaniyi and the only female Taofeek (Ward 5) is a member, Alhaja Omotayo member of the parliament.

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THE SOCIAL REGISTER

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 16 - THURSDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2018

THE SOCIAL REGISTER

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A Cocktail Of Recent Happenings Federal Govt. Establishments’ Heads Visits Nigeria Immigration Service, Osun Command, Recently

Osun Concerned Women Forum: Celebration Of Worthy Leaders, Conferment Of Leadership Award On Governor Rauf Arergbesola And APC National Leader , Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu In Osogbo Recently. Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI

•Zonal Head, Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in Osun, Barrister T.E Omijie (5th right); Osun Comptroller, Nigeria Immigration Service, Mr AO Idowu (4th right) and others during the visit.

The Executive committee of the Osun State Chapter of the National Forum of Heads of Federal G o v e r n m e n t E s t a b l i s h m e n t s (NAFOHEADS) led by its chairman, Barrister (Mrs.) T.E. Omijie has reiterated its commitment to sustain unity among the federal establishments in the state.

Omijie made the commitment when the committee members paid a courtesy visit to the state Comptroller, Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Osun Command, Mr A.O. Idowu recently.

Omijie who is the zonal head, Corporate Affairs

Commission (CAC) in the state briefed the comptroller on plans the forum has earmarked and is ready to rollout in the cause of the year.

Among the programmes are construction of a guest house on an acquired acre of land to alleviate the usual accommodation problem often faced by newly-posted officers to the state and securing of the forum’s permanent secretariat among several other basic needs.

The visit which lasted for over an hour saw Barr. Omijie commending the NIS Chief on how he has coordinated the state command of service since his assumption of office as comptroller.

Chairman And Members Of Parliament, Osogbo West LCDA Visits Ataoja Of Osogbo.

•Executive Chairman of Oshogbo West LCDA, Oke-Arungbo Oshogbo, Alhaja Temilade Sekinat Olokungboye (3rd right) and her cabinet members in a group photographs with Ataoja of Osogbo land, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun (3rd left) during their visit to the Palace on Wednesday.

‘ ’

It is on record that without your political Aurora, our country will still be in the hands of conservatives whose aim was to milk the God given resources of the country dry.

•Some of the guests in attendance.

A women political group, Osun Concerned Women Forum (OCWF), has honoured the National leader of the ruling All Progressive Congress APC, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu with a prestigious “Grand Commander Worthy Leader of the Order of Niger (GCWLON) award.

The group also honoured the Executive Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola who was conferred with the “ Grand Commander of the Odua Kingdom (GCOOK)” award.

The award was conferred on Asiwaju Tinubu and Governor Aregbesola by the OCWF Coordinator, Alhaja Hauwa Folake Ahmed, in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.

Mrs. Ahmed, while presenting the awards, said her group deemed it fit to honour Jagaban and his most trusted and loyal follower of school of thought, Ogbeni Aregbesola with awards •A cross section of women from Lagos during the programme. based on their commitment to women’s emancipation, empowerment and protection.

She also stated that the award was conferred on them because they merited it based on their assessment and report, and other activities and impact made by them on women and their believe for a better life for women.

She said, “The presentation of awards to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the governor of Osun State, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, today is a celebration of achievement, a moment to recognise exemplary leadership of integration of democracy in our country, a day to appreciate kind gesture to see that women in the society occupy their God given place in society.”

“His Excellency emeritus, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National leader of our great party the ‘All Progressive Congress’ is a man who God truly created in his image.

“He can see with a giant vision •(L-R) Former Osun APC Chairman, Elder Lowo Adebiyi; APC State Chairman, Prince Gboyega Famodun in terms of political maneoverings. and Engineer Sola Oladepo at the programme.

The history of Lagos State today would never be complete without Asiwaju Tinubu. He chart a new course for the state, he gave a roadmap for it’s growth and development.”

The OCWF Coordinator noted that the achievements of Tinubu was not only in the area of infrastructure but also in terms of human development capacity which has transcended from Lagos State to other South western states as well as through out the country.

“Your excellency sir, history will forever remember you for good, that when our dear country was heading towards economic and security doom, when the country steered towards fragmentation and division, you led the progressive to form the All Progressive Congress.

“It is on record that without your political Aurora, our country will still be in hands of the conservatives whose aim was to milk the God given resources of the country dry.

“2015 was a year you led the progressive under the leadership of President Mohammed Buhari to lead our country and set the path for economic growth and development.”

Commending Governor Aregbesola for his laudable achievements in Osun within the space of seven years, Alhaja Ahmed said OCWF decided to honour the governor in “recognition of your exemplary leadership skills and governance in the state”.

“We the Osun Concerned Women Forum salute your doggedness in managing the state as well as your leadership style. Your administration has put the interests of women in the party at heart and the state at large, this could be attested to in the composition of your cabinet both in the first and second terms in office.

In his response, Senator Tinubu, who was represented by Osun state APC Secretary, Alhaji Rasaki Salisile expressed gratitude for the honour.

He pledged to continue to bring women’s issues to the front burner and press for their due place in the polity, calling for more women to indicate interest in politics and governance of the nation.

Oloroke Festival Celebrated In Grand Style

•Olojudo of Ile-Ido, Oba Sikiru Adeniyi (middle) and his chiefs during the festival.

•A cross section of youths during the festival

By Jimmy Adams

The 2018 edition of the Oloroke festival was held recently at the palace of the Olojudo in Afeki, Ile-Ido, Ife in the State of Osun, Oba Sikiru Adeniji Adeyeba,.

Oloroke festival is a cultural festival that promotes the history and cultural heritage of the people of Ile-Ido, and it is gradually gaining recognition.

The revered monarch of IleIdo, His Royal Majesty, Oba Sikiru Adeniji Adeyeba, ensured that the festival this year was with class.

Speaking to journalists, the monarch said, he was pleased to have held the festival with such grandeur, saying, “Oloroke festival is like no other as the cultural displays and masquerades ‘Iro’ performance are distinct in every sense.

“Oloroke festival dates back to

the 17th century when the Ompetu of Ile-Ido received strange beings ‘Iwin’ in Ile-Ido. Ompetu celebrated these strange beings who were of great help to him on his expeditions in the forest.

“This festival emerged to showcase the cultural heritage of Ile-Ido and the time of its celebration is a period when blessings are pronounced on the people of Ile-Ido”, the monarch stressed.

Oba Adeyeba then used the opportunity to pray for the peace and the rise of the nation’s rich heritage, as well as prosperity of the citizenry, which, he believed would culminate to the nation’s prosperity.

The festival was witnessed by representatives of the International Breweries Plc, traditional chiefs, heads of communities and compounds, residents and visitors from far and near.

OUR SOCIAL REGISTER IS OPEN FOR YOUR SOCIAL ACTIVITIES TO BE MADE PUBLIC 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 FEBRUARY 16 - THURSDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2018

NEWS

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Aregbesola Urges Osun Civil Servants To Act As Tax Marshals Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has disclosed that the state has no reason to be poor if its people inculcate the culture of tax payment.

He added that with the interactive session he right revenue drive and a held with Permanent Gross Domestic Product Secretaries, Directors, (GDP) of about 2.44 General Managers and trillion, Osun should be a Executive Secretaries of rich and prosperous state government agencies and in the federation. parastatals at the This is just as the government secretariat. governor charged the Aregbesola who entire civil service of the decried the poor state to help the economic nature of Osun government promote the despite its huge GDP culture of tax payment which he said is more among the people of than that of some African Osun. countries called for a He stated these on change in attitude to tax Wednesday during an payment in the state.

While calling on the civil service not to be careless of the fact that it is only public servants that pay their tax adequately, the governor stressed that the state will only be encouraging poverty if it continues that way.

The Governor further charged the state civil service to let the people understand and embrace the culture of tax payment, saying they have nowhere to call their own apart from Osun, hence the need to join hands in developing it is quintessential.

He held that the only thing that will make him feel comfortable even after leaving office is when he is rest assured that the civil service has keyed into the idea of assisting the government to generate revenue through taxation.

A r e g b e s o l a maintained that the time has come for public servants to begin to see themselves as those whose on shoulders lie the responsibility to drive the state forward through revenue generation which can only be gotten from the people.

•(L-R) Secretary to the State Government of Osun, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti; Head of Service, Comrade Gboyega Oyebade and Senator Mudashiru Hussain during a meeting with Directors in Osun Public Service.

Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI.

Lassa Fever: Osun Govt Cautions Against Panic The state government of Osun has insisted that one in Osun had been there is no reason for any citizen of the state to panic, proactively taken. Filth saying there is no outbreak of Lassa fever in any and dirt’s are been part of the state. regularly taken care of, It said there has not “As at today, there has while medical personnels been any report about the not been any other had been on red alert to that any disease by the state confirmed Lassa fever ensure disease medical officials who are case except that of the unexpected observing patients in young man from a outbreak is contained.

“As far as prevention is hospitals. neighbouring state that concerned, Osun In a statement by the died at the OAUTHC State Commissioner for “All necessary steps to government has been Information and prevent the outbreak of proactive while all Strategy, Mr Adelani this disease or any other curative efforts are Baderinwa said what has been reported was an isolated death case of a young man who came The training of medical personnels, provision of from a neighbouring drugs, localising of health insurance scheme in the state. state are all steps taken by the government of the He said, the young State of Osun towards the launching of the Osun man who was suspected Social Insurance Health Scheme (OSHIS). of carrying Lassa fever This was revealed by established for the sake disease from the the Commissioner for and purpose of neighbouring state died Information and everybody in the state as at the Obafemi Awolowo Strategy, Adelani its coverage is universal.

University Teaching Baderinwa during a one “Nobody is excluded Hospital Complex, Ile- day sensitisation meeting from the scheme for any Ife. with media practitioners reason. It is for According to him, “As in Osogbo on everybody to access. a proactive measure, the Wednesday.

The commissioner also medical personnels had Speaking further, the revealed that modalities to quarantine those who commissioner stated that had been put in place to had come in contact with the state health insurance ensure that the scheme the strayed deceased for scheme which is now enjoys all round success observation. This is a fully functional is and that people which it normal medical established so that its was meant for would procedure, and does not benefits and advantages access it.

In his opening remark, mean the quarantined would be enjoyed by people are possibly both the indigenes and the Special Adviser to the governor on Health, Dr. carrying Lassa fever residents of the state.

“The scheme was Gbenga Oyinlola stated disease.

already set in place.

“We urge people to make sure that their environment is clean and that they keep their foodstuffs away from rodents.

“The government urges the people not to panic, as there is no spread of Lassa fever in the state”, the commissioner stressed.

The Governor who noted that the height which every indigene of Osun wants the state to attain in the next ten or twenty years will be a mirage if the civil service does not assist the government in changing the orientation of the people towards tax payment.

The state helmsman expressed the believe that the people of the state are no more in doubt that the government can give them what they want, stressing that this should be used as a basis to rekindle the poor attitude of the people to tax payment.

According to Aregbesola, “If a territory or space like Osun can produce goods and services worth 2.44 trillion naira, then we have no reason to be poor. But it’s a pity that we can’t hide our faces from the fact that we are poor and this is because our revenue generation is so poor.

“Some African countries that have presidents don’t have that much of GDP as Osun and it’s saddening

Gubernatorial Aspirant Tasks Grassroots Parliamentarians A gubernatorial hopeful in the state of Osun, Mr Olugboyega Alabi, has tasked the newly elected councillors across the 389 local governments, Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) and Area Council to strive to justify the confidence reposed in them by their constituents, through a peopleoriented legislation and good governance.

Alabi, gave the charge the dividends of in a congratulatory democracy to the message to the new doorsteps of the masses. grassroots legislators in BOA used the avenue Osogbo. to laud Governor Rauf The economist cum Aregbesola for his rare politician stressed that ingenuity that led to the the fact that local introduction of government is the closest parliamentary system of government to the people government at the local has made it mandatory level. for the council The Ikire born parliamentarians to bring philanthropist urged the people to also play their part by ensuring regular payment of tax and other levies that would assist very important because the government to people will know the perform its statutory benefits of the functions effectively, as programme as it gets to being done at the state the public sphere”. level under Aregbesola, Also, the Executive especially in the area of Secretary of the Osun i n f r a s t r u c t u r e Social Health Insurance development across the Scheme (OSHIS), Dr. Niyi nooks and crannies of the Oginni stated that the state idea behind the scheme This same effort, he was to start a process that pledged would be will make health services consolidated by him universally available to when he becomes the all and sundry in the governor of the state later state. this year.

“The scheme would be Alabi, who urged the operated on equity where new councillors to key those who do not have into the six-point integral money can have access to action plan of the quality health services A r e g b e s o l a and we want it to succeed administration, then so that Osun will be an wished them a successful example to emulate”. tenure of office.

Osun Sensitises Residents Over Health Insurance Scheme that the need for the sensitisation meeting arose as a result of creating awareness as to the kick off of the health insurance scheme in the state.

He noted that the health insurance scheme when accessed by everybody would be an avenue to make healthy living realisable in the state.

According to him, “the need for universal health coverage for all is irrespective of class, status and gender”.

“For the State of Osun, one of the modalities of grading good health is through the health insurance scheme and media sensitisation is

that we still find ourselves in this economic mess because our attitude to tax payment is poor and we are directly at fault for it.

“I want to tell you that if we continue like this then we are encouraging poverty, you public servants should begin to worry that it is only you who pay tax, it should interest you as public servants to ensure that every taxable adult in Osun pay their taxes.

“If we don’t quickly do something about our revenue generation, the dream of a better Osun that will be the cynosure of all eyes might painfully be a mirage, I came to Osun to become governor because I am from this state and I want it to develop. I want you too to begin to have the mindset that Osun must develop through you.

“Revenue generation is the only panacea to development, there can’t be development without revenue, it is only through the people that we can generate the revenue and you must let the people know that

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 16 - THURSDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2018

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Top Dating Tips For Men Dating can be a tricky business.

What should you wear? Where should you meet? How much should you say? Who should pay? How soon after your date should you call? There are endless questions that can spin around your head before, during and after a date, which is why we’ve compiled a list of some top dating tips for men, to help make sure your date is a success.

First Impressions Are Always Important Your ripped jeans may be okay but remember, this will be the first impression your date gets of you. Yes, you should never pretend to be someone that you’re not, but a girl might like to see that you take pride in your appearance. Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean you need to wear a full tuxedo, but having a shower, shave, using aftershave and putting on something suitable will help you impress your date and get you off to a good start. Now all you have to worry about is turning up on time.

Make Date Plans For Somewhere You’ll Feel Comfortable You might think that you’re being a gentleman by letting your date decide where you go on your date, but women often like to see that you can take control. Dating can be a daunting experience, help cut through those nerves by arranging to meet up in familiar territory. This will help make you feel more comfortable. Although, maybe avoid your normal Saturday night pub, as bumping into your mates could be a little distracting on your date.

Be Confident Women value confidence highly when it comes to choosing a guy. If you’re a little shy, practice beforehand

Sex & Life

By Damilola Ojenike Twitter: @d_real_dee Instagram: life_of_dee_ E-mail: damilolaojenike@gmail.com

by talking to people you don’t know.

Or, whilst on the date, pick a subject that you’re enthusiastic about, such as a hobby. She will sense your confidence as you talk passionately about it. Many people may also be shy about their appearance. You may not be 6ft tall with a 6-pack, but it’s more attractive to a woman to show that you’re comfortable in your own skin and happy being you.

Don’t Do All The Talking On your date, make sure you don’t do all the talking. Try to keep what you have to say short and concise.

You don’t want to start boring your date. If this date goes well, there will be lots more opportunities to share your stories in the future. Don’t be scared of pauses and help mix up the conversation by asking your date questions. Listening is important, as it shows that you are interested in what she has to say.

Keep The Conversation Fun Try to keep your conversation lighthearted. On your first date, you don’t want to get into an in-depth conversation about why you don’t enjoy your job, or other issues you’ve been having. Women want a guy who can make them laugh and ask the right questions. Yes you do have to be serious sometimes, but in the early stages of dating, have some fun.

Avoid The ‘Ex’ Conversation Talking about your ex is dangerous, make it a no-go territory. It’s best to stay away from the conversation altogether. Your date will not be interested and it can make things feel awkward between you. If your date does bring up the subject, try to keep answers short (without appearing suspicious). Reassure her that your past is history and that you want to spend your time getting to know her instead.

Marriages Acceptable In Nigeria Marriage was defined under Hyde vs. Hyde as the voluntary union for life of the woman to the exclusion of others.

The above definition relates to marriage under the Nigerian Act. However, under the customary law, marriage is defined as the union of one man and his wife or wives. From the above definition, it thus states that under customary law unlike marriage under statute, a man is allowed to marry more than one wife.

All over the world, marriage is the root of a family; it is only by marriage that a woman can obtain the right to be supported by the man. As soon as a woman is married, her domicile change with that of her husband and this has a significant effect on her legal status.

Marriage is a union of a man and woman to become husband and wife.

For a marriage to be statutory, the marriage must be lawful, it must be with the consent of both parents and the parties involved. There are four (4) main types of marriages in Nigeria.

Customary Marriage: This is also known as common law marriage. This marriage is done based on the customary law in Nigeria. This involves the payment of bride price. What is a bride price? It is any gift or payment, in money, natural products or cowries or any kind of property, to the parent or guardian of a female person on the account of a marriage of that person which is intended or has taken place.

In most Nigerian tribes, the bride price

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Turn Off Your Phone There’s nothing more annoying than phones ringing whilst trying to spend quality time out with friends, and it’s just as irritating on a date.

Don’t just put it on silent or vibrate, as you can still become distracted.

Turn your phone off completely. If she knows that you’ve turned your phone off to focus entirely on the date, she’ll appreciate you’re taking the time to engage with her fully.

Offer To Pay Things have shifted and most women will assume that they are paying for their share of the bill. On your first date, insist on treating her (although don’t be forceful). This will make you look like a gentleman. But, if she still wants to pay, suggest she gets the bill on your next date, if she wishes.

Follow Up Correctly If you don’t want a second date, don’t say you’ll call her. You’ll end up feeling bad and she might feel hurt. Just say, “I had a great time tonight”. If you do want to see her again, don’t play games. Yes, in films they always leave it a couple of days to contact each other, but this is 2018.

If you don’t contact her within a couple of days, you’ll seem like you couldn’t be bothered, or didn’t enjoy the date. The sooner you tell her what a great time you had, the better.

So, you have a date lined up and you’ve read my top tips for dating. All that is left is to take a deep breath, relax and try to enjoy being yourself.

LAW & U WITH

DEBBIE OBASA

is paid to the father of the bride and it’s often tagged the completion of an engagement. Like in the case of Okpanum vs. Okpanum 1972 and Section 361 of the criminal code act, it’s a punishable offence with seven (7) years imprisonment for any person who with the intention to marry a female person of any age or to cause her to be married by any other person takes her away or detains her against her will.

Traditional Marriage: This is a kind of marriage whereby, the groom brings all that have been listed in the bridal list to officially knot nuptial ties with the bride. In this kind of marriage, the groom comes with the entire members of his family, friends and well wishers.

The bride’s family performs the traditional rites and officially gives the bridegroom their official blessings. And before the traditional marriage, comes the introduction. The significance of the introduction is for both families to get to know each other properly and the bride price is then discussed.

Religious Wedding: This is either Christian marriage or Islamic marriage as it is affiliated and done in accordance to the religion. The marriage is a divine union, thus it’s backed up in the spiritual realm. The white wedding as it’s mostly called is supposed to be the combination of the religious marriage and the wedding reception party. But some people these days skip the

religious wedding and instead have a court wedding and then have the reception party. For a religious marriage to be legal, it must be licensed and recognized by the state.

In Muslim marriage, the payment of a Saduquat (Sadaki) must be received.

Usually, churches that conduct weddings need to get approval from the state. This way, a person having a religious wedding doesn’t have to go to the court to register and collect a marriage certificate; this is made available through the church.

Civil Marriage: This kind of marriage is also known as court wedding. In this kind of wedding the couples register the marriage under the Marriage Act of Nigeria, with a marriage certificate upon its completion. This kind of marriage is compulsory, as it ensures the security of the woman and the children. Court wedding is bounded by the court register and the court has to check if the parties are deemed to have the capacity to marry and if they have the court requirements. Some of the requirements are; Age, Consent, Subsisting Marriage, Kindred and Affinity.

Statutory marriage is compulsory in Nigeria and it’s done with little or no income and it saves time.

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ISSUES/POLICIES

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 16 - THURSDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2018

National Assembly Lacks Power To Reorder Elections Let me begin by saying that the National Assembly itself is established by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999) as amended.

Section 47 of the Constitution provides that ‘There shall be a National Assembly for the Federation which shall consist of a Senate and a House of Representatives’.

This provision of the Constitution shows clearly that the National Assembly itself is a creature of the Constitution. The Constitution which is the ground-norm of all other laws in the land including any Act made by the National Assembly, also provides for legislative powers exercisable by the same National Assembly. Section 4(1) of the Constitution provides that “The Legislative powers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall be vested in a National Assembly for the Federation which shall consist of a Senate and a House of Representative”. Section 4(2) provides that “The National Assembly shall have power to make law for the peace, order and good Government of the Federation or any part thereof”...

Suffice to say that the National Assembly also derives its Legislative powers from the same Constitution.

Now, Section 1(1) of the Constitution provides that “This Constitution is supreme and its provisions shall have binding force on all authorities and persons throughout the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Section 1(3) provides that “If any other law (this time, Electoral Act) is inconsistent with the provisions of the Constitution, this Constitution shall prevail, and that law shall to the extent of the inconsistency

By Wasiu Adebayo be void”.

Therefore, I hereby opine that the effect of Section 1(1) and Section 1(3) is that the Constitution has binding force either on the National Assembly as an Authority or Senators and Members of House of Reps as individual persons.

Section 153(1)(f) of the Constitution provides for the establishment of INEC just as Section 47 of the Constitution as herein above mentioned, provides for the establishment of National Assembly.

The composition and powers of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are as contained in part 1 of the Third Schedule of this Constitution.

For the purpose of this piece,

paragraph 15(a) provides that “The Commission (INEC) shall have power to Organise, Undertake and Supervise all Elections to the offices of the President and Vice President, Governor and Deputy Governor of a State and to the Membership of the Senate, the House of Representatives and the House of Assembly of each State of the Federation”.

I, therefore, humbly opine that the effect of Section 153 (1) (f) of the Constitution and paragraph 15 of Part 1 of the third Schedule to the Constitution is that the Commission (INEC) shall conduct elections in the order stated in the Constitution, that is, from President to Governor and finally or lastly Membership of the Senate, the House of Representatives and the House of

Do Governments Exist Just To Pay Salaries?

The above question arose in my mind and got me thinking long time ago, when my State, Osun, was in the news for reasons not unconnected with these same questions, and which made Governor Rauf Aregbesola to be so unpopular among civil servants, not only in Osun but all over. Osun soon became the poster boy for states that failed to be up to date in salary payments. It was so rive and unjustified that states which we all know couldn’t pay between eighteen months to two years weren’t even noticed in the media as but Osun that probably owed just a couple of months of modulated salary arrears.

Sometimes last year, I had to engage a very popular radio On-Air Personality based in Lagos on the true situation of things in Osun. He was hitherto fond of using Osun as an example of what he termed “bad governance” until he, according to him, found out the truth. He profusely apologized on national radio to “…this man, Aregbesola, whom we have all unfairly disparaged”. What was the reason behind this misrepresentation? It was not for lack of adequate information from Osun state’s government information handlers, but the presence of morbid stereotypical syndrome which our media and other critics have not, even till date, corrected or condemned.

Thank goodness Osun has finally gotten out of the mess of inability to pay salaries, allowances and pensions up to date. The modulated salary payments agreed to by labour and government have also ended as Osun has commenced paying full salaries to all categories of staff in its employment, and up-to-date.

But this is not the crux of this essay.

Few weeks back, a prominent national daily, in its editorial comment asked similar question as headlined above. The editorial board was of the opinion that payment of salaries should just be one of several other responsibilities of government. That explains why budgets are oftentimes segregated into two broad areas: capital and recurrent expenditures. One is for real development like educational

Unfortunately, incompetent governance, dishonesty, fear of popular public opinions, misunderstanding of what government really stands for have combined to make us believe that governments are in office to pay salaries only. infrastructure, roads, health infrastructure and others while the recurrent is mainly to pay wages, salaries, pension and other costs of running government. But because over the years, citizens see government as the big father, almost everyone sees it as the undisputable provider of livelihood. This certainly, is not unconnected with the defunct oil boom which made us believe in rent and wages without corresponding value added. Going to school to obtain degrees and diplomas is fundamentally meant to equip us adequately to be self reliant. But, over the years, we’ve been made to believe that going to school is a certificate for free meal from government. You can say anything concerning our brothers in the southeast but one thing that probably distinguishes them from the rest of us is their spirit of self reliance which some commentators believe is the result of the sufferings they went through in the thirty months of Biafran war. This experience

Assembly of each state of the Federation.

Alternatively, since the commission shall have power to organise, undertake and supervise all elections to the offices of the President and Vice President, Governor and Deputy Governor of a State and to the Membership of the Senate, the House of Representatives and the House of Assembly of each State of the Federation, the literary meaning of the word “organise” simply means arrange systematically.

Therefore, the Constitution by virtue of these provisions, has given the commission (INEC) power to arrange systematically or order Elections as it deems fit and necessary without any input from National Assembly or Executives. And so far, Section 1(3) of the Constitution says “if any other law (this time, Electoral Act) is inconsistent with the provisions of the Constitution, this Constitution shall prevail and that other law shall to the extent of inconsistency be void.

Conclusively, I dare submit that the part of Amendment to Electoral Act touching on the Reorder of Elections is void ab-initio, since it is in conflict with the power constitutionally given to the Commission.

I therefore urge members of the National Assembly to stop unnecessarily heating up the polity.

Similarly, I urge the INEC to challenge this unconstitutional amendment to the electoral act in a competent Court of jurisdiction, as the rule of law is the bedrock of democracy.

•Adebayo is a member of the Osun House of Assembly representing Olorunda State Constituency.

Truth Of The Matter with

AYEKOOTO

carried over to their younger generation could be linked to the reason many of them make it in business at relatively younger age than their ayoakinola444@gmail.com contemporaries in other parts of the country, who might have spent quite a long period in for when Nigeria first codified the conventional schooling. federal principle through the 1954 According to the board of editors of Macpherson Constitution, it “provided the national tabloid referred to earlier, fiscal autonomy to its three regions both “Governor Rauf Aregbesola exposed the over expenditure decisions and over a precariousness of the current template by local revenue base (consisting primarily his admission that personnel costs alone of mining rents, personal income tax, and amounted to over 85 per cent of the total receipts from licences). Centrally revenue that accrued to Osun State collected revenues, primarily from between July 2015 and November 2017. export, import and excise duties, were This is typical of most other states and distributed to the regions based on the the message must be rammed home that derivation principle,” according to a apart from the primary role of protecting World Bank report. This allowed vibrant, life and property, governments exist to self-sustaining regions and LGs that galvanise the people for productive competed fiercely and ran successful administrations. But the violent intrusion activities.

“The 36 states and 774 local of over-centralising military rule since government councils must understand 1966, especially through the General that they are not constituted only to pay Aguiyi Ironsi’s Unification Decree, gradually eroded fiscal autonomy with salaries and pensions”.

They cited a Canadian government’s subsequent multiple new states and LGs policy document which states that completing the descent that has turned regional or state governments are a today’s states and LGs into beggars.

According to this board of editors, and geographically larger level of government over existing municipalities which I absolutely agree with, there is no to provide area-wide municipal alternative to radical reform; funds are functions more economically and to simply no longer there to waste. The establish a tax base sufficient to World Bank reports that, globally, undertake necessary new services. If this regional governments are increasingly is the case, states exist mainly to provide deploying Information Communications services and infrastructure as well as Technology to increase accountability, generate funds through tax regimes to sustainability and quality of service. The about 600 federal ministries, provide the aforementioned.

Unfortunately, incompetent departments and agencies should be pruned with similar cost-cutting at the governance, dishonesty, fear of popular public opinions, misunderstanding of states and LGs. State Governments should downsize what government really stands for have combined to make us believe that their outspized bureaucracies but deploy governments are in office to pay salaries staff and school leavers to more productive ventures in agriculture, only.

This self-destructive model must give trades and vocations as office works are way to a more rational public finance better automated than use of men in management system. The solution must order to free resources for rural begin with a proper diagnosis of what infrastructure and make their states went wrong, which is the overthrow of magnets for investments in agriculture, fiscal federalism. It is a slide rich in irony; mining and SMEs.

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 16 - THURSDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2018 We often hear people say they are depressed or they are passing through a certain stressful situation which makes them to be depressed. We grew up to know that being depressed is a state of the mind which transcends to the physical.

What really is depression, how do we manage depression and what are the dangers associated with depression?

Overview Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it affects how one feels, thinks and behaves and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems.

The depressed person may have trouble doing normal day-to-day activities, and sometimes they may feel as if life is not worth living. More than just a bout of the blues, depression is not a weakness and the person experiencing depression cannot simply “snap out” of it. Depression may require long-term treatment but this is not enough ground to be discouraged. Most people with depression feel better with medication, psychotherapy or both.

Symptoms: Although most people experience depression only once during their life time, people typically have multiple episodes. During these episodes, symptoms occur most of the day, nearly every day and they may include: I. Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, emptiness or hopelessness.

II. Angry outbursts, irritability or frustration, even over small matters.

III. Loss of interest or pleasure in most or all normal activities, such as sex, hobbies or sports.

IV. Sleep disturbances, including insomnia or sleeping too much.

V. Tiredness and lack of energy, so even small tasks take extra effort.

VI. Reduced appetite and weight loss or increased cravings for food and weight gain.

VII. Anxiety, agitation or restlessness.

VIII. Slowed thinking, speaking or body movements.

IX. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, fixating on past failures or self-blame.

X. Trouble thinking, concentrating, making decisions and remembering things.

XI. Frequent or recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts or contemplating suicide.

XII. Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches.

For many people with depression, symptoms usually are severe enough to cause noticeable problems in dayto-day activities, such as work, school, social activities or relationships with others. Some people may feel generally miserable or unhappy without really knowing why.

Depression symptoms in children and teens: Common signs and symptoms of depression in children and teenagers are similar to those of adults, but there can be some differences.

In younger children, symptoms of depression may include sadness, irritability, clinginess, worry, aches and pains, refusing to go to school, or being underweight.

In teens, symptoms may include sadness, irritability, feeling negative and worthless, anger, poor performance or poor attendance at school, feeling misunderstood and extremely sensitive, using recreational drugs or alcohol, eating or sleeping too much, self-harm, loss of interest in normal activities, and avoidance of social interaction.

Depression symptoms in older adults: Depression is not a normal part of growing older, and it should never be taken lightly. Unfortunately, depression often goes undiagnosed and untreated in older adults, especially in developing countries and they may feel reluctant to seek help.

Symptoms of depression may be different or less obvious in older adults, such as: I. Memory difficulties or personality changes.

II. Physical aches or pain.

III. Fatigue, loss of appetite, sleep problems or loss of interest in sex which is not caused by a medical condition or medication.

IV. Often wanting to stay at home, rather than going out to socialize or doing new things.

V. Suicidal thinking or feelings, especially in older men.

Seeking expert medical help It may not be easy to detect but once a person feels the onset of the aforementioned symptoms of depressions, it is suggested that the person make an appointment to see a doctor or mental health professional as soon as possible.

In case some people are reluctant to seek treatment, it is advised that they talk to a friend or loved one, any health care professional, a faith leader, or someone else who holds a position of trust in their life.

When to get emergency help It is always advisable as medical case to always keep in mind that emergencies occur. When such happens, it will not be medically wise to stay at home and pray for the best or worse as the case may be, but to quickly get across to the help line which is available with all the telecom service providers in the country.

It is also good to consider these options in case the patient is having suicidal thoughts: I. Call the doctor or mental health professional.

II. Reach out to a close friend or loved one.

III. Contact a minister/clergy, spiritual leader or

OSUNDEFENDER www.osundefender.org

13

Depression With FRANCIS EZEDIUNO

someone else in the faith community or who exercises spiritual influence.

IV. If the person have a loved one who is in danger of suicide or has made a suicide attempt, it should be ensured that someone stays with that person.

Efforts should be made to call local emergency number immediately, this is available with all the telecom companies operating in the country.

Lastly, if it is safe, the person can be taken to the nearest hospital for emergency treatment.

Causes It’s not known exactly what causes depression. As with many mental disorders, a variety of factors may be involved, such as: I. Biological differences. People with depression appear to have physical changes in their brains. The significance of these changes is still uncertain, but may eventually help pinpoint causes.

II. Brain chemistry. Neurotransmitters are naturally occurring brain chemicals that likely play a role in depression. Recent research indicates that changes in the function and effect of these neurotransmitters and how they interact with neuro-circuits involved in maintaining mood stability may play a significant role in depression and its treatment.

III. Hormones. Changes in the body’s balance of hormones may be involved in causing or triggering depression. Hormone changes can result with pregnancy and during the weeks or months after delivery (postpartum) and from thyroid problems, menopause or a number of other conditions.

IV. Inherited traits. Depression is more common in people whose blood relatives also have this condition.

Researchers trying to find genes that may be involved in causing depression.

Risk factors Depression often times begins in the teens, 20s or 30s, but it can happen at any age. More women than men are diagnosed with depression, but this may be due in part because women are more likely to seek treatment.

Factors that seem to increase the risk of developing or triggering depression include: I. Certain personality traits, such as low self-esteem and being too dependent, self-critical or pessimistic.

II. Traumatic or stressful events, such as physical or sexual abuse, the death or loss of a loved one, a difficult relationship, or financial problems.

III. Blood relatives with a history of depression, bipolar disorder, alcoholism or suicide.

IV. Being lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, or having variations in the development of genital organs that are not clearly male or female (intersex) in an unsupportive situation.

V. History of other mental health disorders, such as anxiety disorder, eating disorders or post-traumatic stress disorder.

VI. Abuse of alcohol or recreational drugs.

VII. Serious or chronic illness, including cancer, stroke, chronic pain or heart disease.

VIII. Certain medications, such as some high blood pressure medications or sleeping pills.

Complications Depression is a serious disorder that can take a terrible toll on the sufferer and their families. Depression often gets worse if it is not treated, resulting in emotional, behavioral and health problems that affect every area of your life.

Examples of complications associated with depression include: I. Excess weight or obesity, which can lead to heart disease and diabetes.

II. Pain or physical illness.

III. Alcohol or drug misuse.

IV. Anxiety, panic disorder or social phobia.

V. Family conflicts, relationship difficulties, and work or school problems.

VI. Social isolation.

VII. Suicidal feelings, suicide attempts or suicide.

VIII. Self-mutilation, such as cutting.

IX. Premature death from medical conditions.

Prevention There’s no sure way to prevent depression. However, these strategies may help.

I. Take steps to control stress, to increase your resilience and boost self-esteem.

II. Reach out to family and friends, especially in times of crisis, to help weather rough spells.

III. Get treatment at the earliest sign of a problem to help prevent depression from worsening.

Consider getting long-term maintenance treatment, both medical, counselling and spiritual to help prevent a relapse of symptoms.

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NEWS

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 16 - THURSDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2018

Fulani Herdsmen Crisis Caused By Societal Issues - Aregbesola The Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has described the Fulani herdsmen activities as a product of disregard for their immediate environment rather than an ethical issue.

The Governor also underdevelopment of the challenged Nigeria to be country. strong and bond to take He however explained the leadership role of that the challenges posed leading the black man to by the Fulani herdsmen the zenith of the world. could be turned into a The Governor spoke in huge business and Ado-Ekiti during a visit economic development and an interactive session opportunity if the right he held with students at approach is used to tackle the Afe Babalola the issue.

University, Ado-Ekiti.

The Governor stressed Aregbesola said it is that he expects scholars wrong to see the issue of from the various the Fulani herdsmen as universities across the just an ethnic issue or from country to begin to engage the political angle, saying in researches and come up most of their action is as a with ideas to produce result of the primitive way pasture and other feeds things are still being which the cattles in handled in the country.

Nigeria can use to feed all He stated further that year round, saying the they did not just become cattle herdsmen will be wild because they are willing to buy it. herdsmen but because According to Nigeria as a nation has Aregbesola, “as much as I completely disregarded condemn the activities of the environment and the Fulani herdsmen, I because nobody has cared think it is not about one to help them. ethnic group, my personal While emphasising that opinion is that we have not their actions are not given them an alternative justifiable, he noted that as a people. the root of the problem is “I am sure they too can the poor economy and the not say they enjoy the

Osun NUJ Congratulates Falope As PMAN President

manner in which they roam about with their cattles, the challenge is caused by the primitive nature we still do things in this part of the world, it is caused by our total disregard of our environment and because

we have never cared to look at how to help these herdsmen.

“The challenge is also about poverty and our refusal to begin to use our God-given knowledge as a people to solve our myriad societal problems we have

as a nation of which the herdsmen killings is among.

“For emphasis, I am not justifying the criminality of the herdsmen, in fact I condemn it in all totality, I am only saying the root cause of the problem is our

•(L-R) Osun Special Adviser on Enterprise and Wealth Creation, Ademola Adetoyese; Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, Ismail Jayeoba and some other members of Osun Executive Council during a meeting with Permanent Secretaries and Directors in the State Civil Service.

poor economy and our refusal to develop ourselves.

“I want to tell you that there is a business angle which can help nip this crisis in the bud, but it is a pity that we are not looking into it.

“If our scholars through our universities can look inwards and find an alternative to the herdsmen grazing the land indiscriminately with their cattles, I think the herdsmen too will embrace it and be willing to pay for it which I see as a business opportunity”.

Aregbesola said.

The Osun governor also used the event to challenge Nigeria as a nation to rise up to the challenge of being the rallying point of Africans and all black men all over the world, saying if the black man must succeed then Nigeria must not fail as a nation.

Osun Assembly Tasks Ministry Of Local Government Over Service Delivery

By Israel Afolabi The State of Osun House of Assembly has stressed the needs for proper monitoring of officials at the Local Government level so as to ensure that their performance complement the efforts of the state government.

Chairman, House Local Government Committee on Finance election in the state. and Appropriation, Hon He urged the Ministry Kamil Oyedele disclosed officials to ensure that this at the ongoing budget council authorities meet defence exercise at the the expectation in the area State House of Assembly of revenue generation. complex Osogbo.

According to him, Oyedele commended “Local Government is the Ministry of Local very crucial to everyone Government and in the state and there Chieftaincy Affairs on the should be judicious use of successful conduct of the revenue of local

Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State Council has congratulated far-famed musician, Mr. Gbenga Falope Jnr on his recent election as the National President of Performing Musician Association of Nigeria (PMAN).

The A-list high life henceforth featured crooner was recently prominently whenever elected as the National issues relating to the President of the flagship music industry in Nigeria body for musicians in the is discussed.” country.

NUJ in a statement jointly signed by the chairman and secretary of the Union, Comrade Osun Government has said that, 12, 171 accident Abiodun Olalere and victims had been rescued by the operations of the Boladale Bamigbola, state Emergency Ambulance Service, known as noted with satisfaction O’Ambulance, in the four years establishment of the the contributions of agency.

Gbenga Falope to the music industry in the The General Manager, specialist intervention. country and described Osun Ambulance Service He noted that for his new post as “well Agency, Dr Akinloye effective service delivery, deserved”.

Adeleke while speaking 49 high tech ambulances According to the with Newsmen in his were procured by the Union, besides Falope’s office, gave the statistics state government and to effects, Osun exploits in the music of those rescued as 12, 171 this service industry in over two with 7700 being males Ambulance agency has the highest decades, which has put and 4,367 being females.

Akinloye also added number of ambulances in Osun and Nigeria on the emergency world map, the music that about seven to eight the pregnant women also ambulance service in the impresario deserves commendation for gave birth inside the country.

The GM further noted providing jobs for several ambulance while being that 19 of these youths, who work in his conveyed to hospitals.

He explained that the ambulances, were band as artistes and service allocated to at strategic technicians, thereby emergency agency, which was points along the major positively engaging launched on February 4, high ways, while the them.

The statement further 2013, is saddled with the remaining 30 ambulances of taking were designated to the reads: “The election of responsibility care of medically local government Mr. Gbenga Falope Jr. as challenged elders. headquarters of each PMAN president is He said other roles of council. commendable and the agency includes; “Our ambulances are evidenced high respect reduction of deaths along furnished with effective the music industry in the highways by rapid communication gadgets Nigeria accords him. response and prompt and this serve as means of “Beyond the personal rescue of accident victims, communicating of the honour the new position good referral system of agency’s staff. confers on Falope, Osun, transferring patients “The call tracker his state of birth and from primary to tertiary personnel at the control residence will also health facilities for centre receive all calls

government”.

In their separate remarks, other members of the committee observed the need for the ministry to engage in capacity building for local government staffers so as to enhance their performance.

The ministry was charged to ensure that the authorities of local governments pay attention to proper maintenance of all the 10 kilometre roads in their jurisdiction.

The lawmakers also directed relevant agencies

O’Ambulance Rescues 12,171 Victims In Four Years from our clients through our two hotlines, 07080601212 and 07080601313 and call the ambulance that are at the closest distance to the scene of accident or where our services are needed.

Speaking on the total number of staff working in the agency, Dr Akinloye said 400 paramedics were trained to man the ambulances, render an emergency medical services to patients and road accident victims before transferring them to the nearest health facilities.

He further said that four call tracker personnel were also trained to receive calls, identify the location of the calls and send the closest ambulances to the scene of the incident or where there services are needed.

“Osun Ambulance render 24 hours free service to the people of Osun State without political or religious affiliations.

Dr Akinloye said that the agency in a bid to make its service more effective recently built

eight ultramodern Ambulance ports.

Appreciating other paramilitary agencies for their support in the course of service delivery, the O’Ambalance GM said that Federal Road Safety Commission FRSC, has been a good partner in their paramedics in defensive driving techniques.

Also collaborating with the agency, according to Dr Akinloye are Osun State Emergency Managements Agency (OSEMA) and other security agents who always provide security for their ambulances and paramedics.

He noted that the establishment of the O’Ambalancs by the i n c u m b e n t administration in the state, has created employment opportunity for the teeming youths in the state.

He therefore, commended Governor Rauf Aregbesola for introducing and funding the service which he said has saved many lives in the state.

and ministries of government that have not submitted their revenue work plan to do so without further delay.

In another development, the lawmakers took note of the activities of the officials of the state judiciary in the previous year and commended the officials for what they described as noticeable improvement in dispensation of justice.

Meanwhile, some of the agencies of government, ministries that have appeared before the House of Assembly includes Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs which defended the sum of N83,314,370 allotted to it, Local Government Service Commission N166,208,720 and High Court of Justice N1,313,142,670.

Others are judiciary service Commission N357,110,200 and Customary Court of Appeal N818,590,720 also defended their budget estimate.

CHANGE OF NAME That FAKAYODE EMMANUEL IYANU, and ADEYEMI EMMANUEL IYANU are the same person, but now wish to be known and addressed as ADEYEMI EMMANUEL IYANU. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

CHANGE OF NAME That ADEKOLA TEMITOPE G, and ADEKOLA TEMITOPE OLUWASEGUN are the same person, but now wish to be known and addressed as ADEKOLA TEMITOPE OLUWASEGUN. All former documents remain valid. G.T. Bank, Diamond Bank and General public should take note.

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 16 - THURSDAY FEBRUARY 22, 2018

CRIME

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Court Remands 3 Persons Over Alleged Armed Robbery The Prosecutor, Also, the first and the

By Debbie Obasa Joshua second accused persons Inspector An Osogbo Magistrate Court on Monday were arraigned before the Oladoye, had told the court that the accused remanded three persons in Ilesa prison custody over same Magistrate over alleged armed robbery. three-count charge person committed the offence on January 13, The defendants Bayo accused persons were in bothering on robbery and 2018 at Dagbolu area, Ajisafe; 27, Wale possession of guns and conspiracy.

Makinde; 29, and Olatoke assorted charms during Taiwo; 32 are facing a the raid.

He said the offence seven-count charge bothering on conspiracy, contravened sections 6(b),

By Abdullahi Omotayo 1(2)(a)(b) , 3(1) and theft , illicit p o s s e s s i o n , a r m e d punishable under section A 28 year-old suspected 300L student of Osun robbery and attempt to 1(1) of the robbery and firearms (Special State University (UNIOSUN), Oluwasesin kill.

Olusegun has been remanded in Ilesha prison The Magistrate, Mrs. Provisions) Act Cap R11 custody by an Osogbo Magistrate court, over alleged Olubukola Awodele, had Vol. 14, laws of the burglary and theft. ordered the defendants to Federation of Nigeria and The offence was said to was said to have been be kept in prison custody section 320(1) of the known as a phone due to the magnitude of criminal code cap 34 vol. have been committed in repairer and a student of the midnight of 25th the alleged offence 11 laws of Osun, 2002.

The accused pleas were November, 2017 at UNIOSUN. committed.

The police Prosecutor, Street, The Prosecutor, Insp. not taken and they had no Adeoti Abiodun Area, Inspector Joshua Oladoye, had told legal representation when Alekuwodo Fagboyinbo told the Osogbo. their case was called the court that the The accused person court that the accused defendants committed the upon. offence on Jan. 15 at Olanrewaju Street, OkeOla area, Osogbo.

Oladoye said the defendants conspired with others at large to rob one Hassan Clinton, Kehinde Hazzan, Olawale Christiana, and Anjola Malik of their valuables and sum of money.

He said they carted away one infinix mobile phone, one IPad, Samsung J7 mobile phone, one sicco mobile phone with other items and all valued at N467,500,000.

He further explained that they also took away a sum of N 10,000 •Picture shows some of the N23.4billion equipment for Ilesa water project in the State and threatened to kill of Osun when the materials arrived for the commencement of the biggest project in the Anjola Malik. history of the State, at Oke IMO area, Ilesa on Tuesday. The development is a break of He added that the 30 year jinx of pipe borne water in the entire Ijesa land.

Tempola Petrol Station, Osogbo.

Oladoye said the accused person conspired with others at large to rob one Abayomi Owoade and Adeyemi

Sheriff of their cell phones, ATM cards, Voter’s cards, and the cash sum of N350,000.

The case was then adjourned till April 27 for mention.

Court Remands UNIOSUN 300L Student For Burglary, Stealing

IBEDC Staff, Four Others Docked Over Cable Theft A 64-year-old staff of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC), Akinpelu Adesina, and four other persons were on Tuesday arraigned before an Osogbo Magistrate Court over alleged theft of electric cable wires.

The other accused persons are Akeem Odeola, 45, Sanusi Usman; 19, Sabiu Suleiman; 19, and Abubakar Ahmadu; 28.

The Prosecutor, Inspector Joshua Oladoye, told the court that the

accused persons committed the offence on November 19 ,2017 at at IBEDC office, Dada Estate, Osogbo.

Oladoye said the accused persons conspired to steal electric cable wires belonging to the electricity

company without their consent.

He said the IBEDC staff stole the electric cable wires from his office and sold them to the other accused persons who happened to receive the stolen property without any justification.

The prosecutor said the cable wires were filled up in six sack bags before the accused persons were arrested by the police.

He also told the court that the accused persons committed the offence

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contravening Sections 390(9), 516, and 427 of the state Criminal law.

The accused persons pleaded not guilty to a three-count charge bothering on theft, conspiracy and felony.

Counsels to the accused persons, Mr. Remigius Ugwu and Mrs. Bose Dada, told the court to grant their clients bail in the most liberal terms.

The Magistrate, Mr Tunde Badmus, granted the accused persons bail in the sum of N100,000 and two sureties each in like sum.

Badmus said the sureties must reside within the court jurisdiction with evidence of tax payments and two passports sized photographs, attached with an affidavit of means.

The case was adjourned till March 13, 2018 for hearing.

CHANGE OF NAME That I formerly known as OLOYEDE FATAI, with Date of Birth 14th January, 1960, now wish to be known and addressed as OLOYEDE FATAI ADESINA. With Date of Birth 14th January, 1972.

All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

broke into the residence of one Oyedele Jamal and do away with his valuable materials.

Fagboyinbo said the materials taken away by the accused person are, one iPhone 7 valued N310,000, one Nokia phone valued N19,000, one Infinix Hot phone, one HP laptop, one Laptop charger, one Samsung X6, one Gionee phone and cash sum of N35,000.

The prosecutor told the court that the accused committed the offence contrary to Sections 312 and 316 and punishable under Sections 519,411 and 427 of the Criminal

Code Cap 34 Volume II, Laws of Osun State of Nigeria, 2002.

The accused person who had no counsel pleaded not guilty to the three-count charge preferred against him.

Inspector Medinat Badmus, the Investigative Police Officer (IPO) while speaking in court said “one of the stolen phones was tracked and the defendant was caught.”

The Magistrate, O. A. Ayilara ordered that the accused be remanded in Ilesha prison custody.

Ayilara then adjourned the case till 26th of February, 2018 for mention.

Man, 38, In Prison For N1.5m Fraud

By Abdullahi Omotayo A Magistrate court sitting in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State on Tuesday remanded a 38 years old man, Oluwasegun Olanrewaju in Ilesha prison over alleged fraud of N1.5m.

The accused person was alleged to have obtained the sum of money under false pretence to buy one Akorede Omopariola, a 2014 model Sienna car.

The police prosecutor, Inspector Joshua Oladoye while addressing the court said that the accused converted the money to his own personal use.

He said the unlawful act committed by the accused person is contrary to Section 1(1)(c) and punishable under Section 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and other Fraud related offences Act 2006.

The plea of the accused

was not taken over the one-count charge leveled against him.

Counsel to the accused person, Taofeek Ibukunle was not allowed to request for the bail of the defendant due to the magnitude of the offence.

The magistrate, Mrs. M.A Awodele then remanded the accused in Ilesha prison custody while she adjourned the case till 19th February, 2018 for mention.

The magistrate then directed the police to send the duplicate case file of the accused to the DPP’s office for advice to be issued.

Two Men In Court Over Chicken Theft

By David Adejuwon

Two old men were on Monday arraigned before an Osogbo Magistrate Court over alleged theft of six live chickens.

Adegoke Atanda, 65, to section 383 and and Adegbola Obey, 50, punishable under section according to the charge 390 (a) of Criminal Code sheet, on February 19, CAP 34 vol. ii laws of 2018 at about 10pm, Osun State of Nigeria committed the offence at 2003.

The accused persons Olu Alabi Farms, Oke pleaded not guilty to the Onitea, Osogbo.

The Police Prosecutor one-count charge against Inspector Jafani Musliu them.

Magistrate F.A told the court that the accused persons who are Sodamade granted the staff of Olu Alabi Farms accused bail in the sum of Nigeria Limited stole N20,000 with one surety (six) life Chickens valued each.

He then adjourned the N9600.

He said the offences case till March 1, 2018 for mention. committed are contrary

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IBEDC Staff, Four Others Docked Over P. 15 Cable Theft THE SIXTH MOST VISITED WEBSITE IN NIGERIA

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2018: Osun's Destiny Is At Stake “It is when good men refuse to take up political leadership that idiots find their way to power. Such good men shall not only suffer under the misrule of idiots but shall lose their rights of complaints” – Edmund Burke.

If there is one major challenge that has faced Osun since its inception 27 years ago, it is incompetent, clueless and corrupt leadership. The leadership deficit that assails us is so legendary that from all indications, Osun has continued to lag behind in an emerging world order that emphasizes clearheaded and able leadership. Osun has been struck by a string of visionless leaders that have run it aground before the advent of the corrective regime of Rauf Aregbesola while less endowed states that were created at the same time with her have continued to make progress.

To most analysts, Osun’s problem had never been paucity of funds and resources, but lack of political will to do the right thing.

This they said, explains why the state has stagnated in almost all facets, as it takes commitment and focus on the part of a leader to deliver good governance. According to the analysts, a critical look at societies that have made progress showed that they enjoyed visionary leadership at different points in their history. In the case of Osun nay Nigeria, they put the blame on the process of emergence of its leaders. Putting it succinctly, the blame for our states and country’s retrogressive growth should be heaped squarely at the door step of poor leadership. In other words, we are where we are not because of God’s design, given our human and natural resources, but because of bad leadership that could not put our resources to good use. Those that are better than us today are better because they are committed, focused and understood what it takes to develop.

The giant strides of the Aregbesola administration in the last seven years, despite paucity of funds unlike the era of the PDP administration when there is enough money to share from the federation account (The three tiers of government also share from Excess crude account in addition to monthly statutory allocation) attested to the above stated proven facts. It is on record that the PDP’s twin legacies in Osun are profligacy and ineptitude.

A Yoruba adage goes thus: “Yini yini ki eni lesemi”, that is, praising someone doing good will serve as an impetus for him to do more and encourage aspiring future leaders to see him as a role model worthy of emulation. Arguably, the paucity of qualitative political leadership in our clime is attributable to our inability to celebrate quality leadership. Democracy as a system of government emphasises the pre-eminence of the people. Significantly, Aregbesola represents a bold statement in democratic

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BY LANRE AMINU

‘ governance. His government has been largely participatory. It is one that has ministered to the basic needs of the people and made human capital development the centre-piece of his economic policy. Indeed, testimonies that have followed Aregbesola’s performance as Osun governor in the last 2,619 days interested those of us who are keen on the emergence of a new and progressive Nigeria. He has a record of sterling achievements and performance behind him. He is an embodiment of all the critical ingredients the Nigerian nation needs in a brand new president of this great nation.

A highly detribalised Nigerian, Aregbesola governs Osun with exemplary commitment and uncanny humility that evidently borders on deep-rooted fear of Allah. Of all the accolades that have been poured on him, the most central have been an acknowledgement of his quiet dignity even when faced with the kind of challenges that would normally set off less accomplished men, and the second is the affirmation of the consistent principle he brought to bear on public service. What has often not been noted in his political odyssey is that Aregbesola was of that generation of men inspired by the politics and philosophy of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo who taught us that in our quest to make a great society and liberate our people from the clutches of poverty and ignorance, we must show ourselves as the first and perfect examples.

Those who wish to lead must be willing to serve, giving that leadership is a sacred trust, a call to dispense of all other interests that negate the higher interest of the people.

True leaders are the servants of their people.

They are not the masters of their people. True leadership requires mental and spiritual preparations: those who wish to lead must explore the vast fields of human knowledge, and just like Awo, Aregbesola prepared himself intellectually. I make bold to say that

the reason why the people have not totally lost faith in our current democratic experience is the colourful leadership credentials of the likes of Aregbesola, a visionary leader that represents the generation of our time. He has risen to a National political phenomenon. He is one of the new national leaders that the Yoruba nation will follow without looking back.

There is no gainsaying that the outgoing governor of Osun, is undergoing turbulent times, due to no fault of his, but that of most of his predecessors who came to power, illprepared for the job and consequently turned the serious business of governance to a huge jamboree. Rather than service, it became evident that primitive accumulation was the PDP’s major motivation for seeking power. There were so many things left undone and the result is that a lot of burden is placed on the head of the incumbent governor, Aregbesola.

In most states today, what the governors are doing is to build on what is on ground.

They are extending the frontiers of what they inherited as assets. But in Osun, Aregbesola started laying solid foundation for the irreversible prosperity of the state barely 7 years ago. It is now that nation-building is taking place in Osun. The state is completely being built afresh. Since the advent of democratic politics in 1999, we have not had the political stability and economic development that we have had in the last 7 years. The best form of propaganda is performance.

As St. Christopher once remarked, “If you doubt my ability, behold my works”.

Aregbesola’s landmark achievements in all sectors and in every nook and crannies of Osun are re-assuring testimony of his greatness. As we ponder over the imminent change of baton in few months time when the tenure of the incumbent governor comes to an end, the question agitating the minds of all lovers of good governance and stake-

As we ponder over the imminent change of baton in few months time when the tenure of the incumbent governor comes to an end, the question agitating the minds of all lovers of good governance and stakeholders in Osun projects is: “How do we ensure our state never go to the wrong hands again?

’

holders in Osun projects is: “How do we ensure our state never go to the wrong hands again? The only way we the electorate can reward Aregbesola and ensures his legacies endure is to gives our votes to the best governorship material that will continue with his good works and even surpass him, irrespective of the zone the person comes from. My major reason for opposing zoning is not far to seek: A state that has been inflicted with bad leadership in the past before the present interregnum (Aregbesola era) should not encourage an unconstitutional arrangement that further limit our choices.

It bears repeating that we should not allow ourselves to be fooled by a party, PDP that bungled all the opportunities it had to make a difference in the lives of our people but laid the foundation for our present socio-political and economic woes. For instance, the problem of half salary wouldn’t have arisen if the PDP led governments at the centre and Osun state have done what they were elected to do - service to the people rather than primitive accumulation.

Our consolation lies in the fact that the next governor of Osun who must have a progressive credentials like Aregbesola will not be overburden like Aregbesola (as he (Aregbesola have taken much of the burden off him) which consequently frees more money to be spent on workers welfare and the generality of the people of the state. A word, they say, is enough for the wise.

•Aminu is the Head of Media, Awo Centre for Philosophy, Ideology and Good Governance, Osogbo

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

All correspondence to the Acting Editor, KAZEEM MOHAMMED, Telephone: 0806-220-7954, kazeemayofe26@yahoo.com. ISSN: 0794-8050.Website: www.osundefender.org., E-mail: osundefenderbank@gmail.com,