Abuse Of Judicial Powers: Three Bankers Drag Osun Magistrate To Chief Judge Over Kano Transaction
Segilola Resources Acknowledges Inter-Ministerial Fact-Finding Report
Controversy Over Who Takes Custody Of Mentally Challenged Woman’s
Why Communal Clashes Persist In Osun
- Findings
•As Over 100,000 Residents Displaced, N2bn Property Destroyed In Ifon, Ilobu, Erin
•Govt Links Problem To Distortion Of Facts
Why Communal Clashes Persist In Osun - Findings
THE extremely greed for wealth and material gains among tradi onal rulers in Osun communi es has been iden fied as the major cause of incessant communal clashes in the state, findings by OSUN DEFENDER revealed.
According to inves gaon, the greed for money and proper es has led to disputes over land ownership and resource allocaon, fueling communal clashes, and deepening divisions within the state, especially among the tradional rulers.
OSUN DEFENDER reliably gathered that tradional rulers in some of the warring communi es were hiding behind the crisis to perpetrate their evil acts.
The medium learnt that some village heads usually send thugs to steal farm produce, especially cash crops from the farms of the communal crisis vic ms a er they have been dislodged from their farms.
Recall that in recent mes, Osun witnessed various communal clashes between communi es. Some of these crises are the agelong Ife/ Modakeke; Paku Village in Iwo and a village under Lagelu local government, Oyo State; and the current Ifon, Ilobu and Erin communal clashes among others.
Corrobora ng the invesga on by OSUN DEFENDER on the cause of the persistent communal clashes in the state, the Execu ve Director, World Ins tute for Peace, Kamiludeen Lamina pointed out that the state government needs to invesgate some of these tradional rulers and their chiefs and put them under surveillance.
Lamina also a ributed the problem to the negligence on the part of the government. He posited that the government has also failed to provide adequate security and mediate disputes between different communi es.
He said: “One of the major reasons for communal clashes in Osun State is the negligence of the state government in addressing the root causes of these conflicts. The government has failed to provide adequate security measures and mediate disputes between different communi es, leading to escala ng tensions and violence.
“However, some tradional rulers in Osun State have been accused of priorizing their own financial interests over the well-being of their subjects. According to findings, the greed for money and proper es has led to disputes over land ownership and resource al-
•As Over 100,000 Residents Displaced, N2bn Property Destroyed In Ifon, Ilobu, Erin
•R-L Reverend Adelowo Adebiyi, Chairman, Ọmọlúàbí Progressives, Alhaji Isa Adesiji, Director General Oranmiyan World Wide, Mr. Olajide Sodiq, Akire of Ikire-Ile, Oba Abdulazeez Olatunbosun Adebamiji Ilufemiloye 1, and Guest lecturer, Sheikh Muhammad Mustopha at the 8th Edi on of Ramadan lecture organised by Oranmiyan Worldwide, on Tuesday
loca on, fueling communal clashes and deepening divisions within the state especially among the tradi onal rulers.
“Moreover, the problem of marginalisa on of certain communi es by those in power has also played a significant role in the prevalence of communal clashes in Osun State.
“When communi es are marginalised and disenfranchised, it o en lead to feelings of resentment and anger towards those communi es who have more people in power.”
Proffering solu on to the lingering crisis, Lamina noted that “In order to address the issue of communal clashes in Osun State, it is essen al that the state
government takes proac ve measures to promote peace and reconcilia on among different communi es.
“This includes investing in conflict resolu on mechanisms, providing development projects in marginalised areas, and holding tradi onal rulers accountable for their ac ons. By addressing these underlying issues and promo ng social cohesion and inclusivity, Osun State can work towards building a more peaceful and harmonious society for all its residents.”
Also, OSUN DEFENDER gathered that the warring communi es of Ilobu and Ifon are s ll coun ng losses a er the recent communal clash over a land dispute that started on Tuesday as
over 100,000 people have been displaced and proper es worth N2 billion destroyed.
The medium learnt that three people, including an ex-councilor, were killed while 30 others sustained gunshot injuries in the fresh a ack between Ilobu (Irepodun Local Government Area) and Ifon (Orolu Local Government Area).
Meanwhile, Governor Ademola Adeleke has declared a dusk-to-dawn curfew and summoned the kings of the warring communi es for a mee ng on Saturday.
However, a statement issued at the weekend by the state government through the Commissioner for Informa on, Kolapo Alimi, said:
Osun 2026: Expedite Action On Zoning - APC Group Tasks Leaders
Yusuf Oketola
Agroup within the Osun State All Progressives Congress, APC, The Progressive Frontliners, TPF, has urged President Bola Tinubu and other party leaders to convene an urgent mee ng to reach a consensus on zoning of the Osun APC gubernatorial cket.
The group also prevailed on other party leaders, including Chief Bisi Akande, Na onal Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, the Na onal Secretary, Dr Ajibola Basiru and the State party Chairman, Tajudeen Lawal on the need to take dras c ac on to preserve unity within the party.
Addressing newsmen on Thursday, the State Coordinator of TPF, Ajijola Ayodele, emphasised that taking a stance on zoning the
cket to Osun-West will prevent other districts from polarizing the party, adding that it’ll allow the party to be focused ahead of the primary.
According to him, “In the spirit of the ongoing Ramadan, we want to use this opportunity to urge the leadership of the party and most revered elder caucus, the Agba-Osun to convene urgent mee ng to unanimously agree on zoning of Osun APC guber cket to Osun West Senatorial District.
“When this is done, it will make the party to be focused ahead of
the primary and also prepare other districts to work harder in canvassing support for the party.
“The mee ng is necessary to prevent aspirants from other districts in polarizing the party. We are commi ed to the unity and progress of the party ahead of the 2026 elec on.
“For numerous years, the Osun West Senatorial District has been instrumental in advancing the party’s vision and objec ves. They have wholeheartedly backed progressive candidates from other districts, defying all obstacles in every gubernatorial elec on.
“Despite this steadfast loyalty and dedicaon, no aspirant from Osun West has been afforded the privilege of represen ng our party in gubernatorial elec ons since the restora on of democracy in 1999.”
“Governor Adeleke has approved that the curfew be extended to Erin-Osun town. Governor (Adeleke) directs all security agencies such as the Military, Nigeria Police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corp NSCDC, Immigra on, NDLEA, and Amotekun among others to extend its security surveillance to the community.
“All the security agencies are to ensure strict compliance with the curfew, which is now 24 hours daily un l peace is restored. “Meanwhile, we seek to bring to the a en on of the public that old videos of communal conflicts in some parts of Osun State are being circulated by opposi on elements to spread false pictures of insecurity in Osun State.”
The Na onal President of Ilobu Development Union, Pastor Olufemi Salako said: “On Friday morning, greater parts of Ilobu Community at Ganga, Idire, Apiponroro, Olobu Market, Ayedaade were seriously invaded, houses and shops were burnt down and people of Ilobu were a acked with guns.
“Unfortunately, the ErinOsun community has also joined from behind, confirming it is a pre-planned and pre-meditated a ack on Ilobu Community. So, this me around, it is not about Ifon and Ilobu fighting over disputed land. It is about the determina on of Ifon-Osun and Erin-Osun Communi es to completely exterminate the Ilobu Community.
“The ongoing carnage and killing has claimed several lives, displaced over 100,000 people, and destroyed proper es worth over N2bn. It started on Thursday evening. The attackers became emboldened as our calls to the Osun State Government, Osun State Commissioner
of Police and the Osun Security Network fell on deaf ears.”
Meanwhile, the Ifon community through the spokesman of the king, Akeem Adekunle lamented that the security operaves that were deployed by the government were not enough.
Adekunle said: “As I am speaking with you, the situa on is s ll manageable because the government declared a 24-hour curfew and we are seeing the presence of security opera ves even though they are not enough. The same team that Ifon is using when we have an emergency is the same that Ilobu people are using.
“We heard gunshots from Ilobu people, we learnt that Ilobu a acked Erin people this morning and their houses. They are sufficiently a acking us. We have too many of the displaced people in our town.
“The video where Ilobu people mostly children and women are trooping out of the town is their strategy when they are ready for full-blown war. They will evict anything that can be a burden to them during the war and will remain only the full-grown men and their warriors to strike so that they won’t suffer any casual es.
“The Olufon a ended the mee ng but we are yet to be briefed about what happened at the mee ng with the governor.“
Meanwhile, Governor Ademola Adeleke has called on historians to avoid distor on of facts to prevent communal conflicts in the state.
Adeleke stated this at Adeleke University, Ede, Osun State, on Tuesday, at the methodology workshop with the theme, ‘Cu ng Edge Knowledge Produc on for 21st Historians and Diplomats,’ organised by the Historical Society of Nigeria in collabora on with 12 universi es in South West Nigeria.
The governor, represented by Dr Abioye Oyewusi, a commissioner in Osun Teaching Service Commission, who linked the recent communal crises that ravaged Ifon, Illobu and Erin Osun to distor on of facts, challenged historians not to allow bias and to always safeguard facts.
“The conference has come at a mely period. Tough mes don’t last, but tough people do. We must allow peace to reign in our society. We have had issues of communal clashes in the last couple of days. History lets the fact speaks for themselves. The best
•Continued on Page 4
Yusuf Oketola
THE incisive report which led out paper today wri en by Yusuf Oketola deserves an award. The report lays bare the plot and sub-plot in the perennial Ifon/ Ilobu imbroglio. The government which has acted very sensible in its response to crisis must now take a root and branch approach. They must look beneath the surface. Whatever their lack of defined cons tu onal func ons and the absence of strategic input in the security framework and mechanism, some people must be held accountable not just for derelic on of duty. But must be inves gated for possible complicity in the mayhem. The heads of tradi onal ins tu ons must account for their ac on and possible inac on in the crisis. It will
“The government must now use the crisis in Ifon, Ilobu and Erin as an opportunity to effect an integrated rural development programme using the three communi es as prac cal research and implementa on base”
Unraveling The Ifon, Ilobu Crisis
appear that as in most crisis, there are conflict entrepreneurial profiting from the economic disloca on. If we take this into account, we will now understand that an interest group as arisen for whom the crisis is so profitable that it must never end.
The government must use its own mechanism to look into sources of wealth in many cases of sudden material gains of some people including tradi onal rulers and the courts as a result of this crisis and of previous in Ifon, Ilobu and Erin. By following the money, we will begin to unravel the source of the crisis and of its sustenance. The government should also look at funding the crisis from the diaspora since much of this funding is through the
normal financial instruments. This should not be difficult to do.
The government should work with the interna onal payment systems as well as Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to examine this value chain of conflictentrepreneurship!
The government’s containment approach should be deepen through more vigorous through public enlightenment using local languages across all mediums. The government must also con nue to respond to the economic disloca on not just through the use of bogus ‘pallia ve’ but by going into the root causes of economic stagna on and lack of the prospect for maintaining financial security and a decent existence. Fundamentally,
The Discourse The Discourse
the crisis exposes the stagna on of the rural economy. This is why emphasis should be place on Integrated Rural Development. The manifesto of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) correctly foresaw the problems in the rural areas as a er back as 1978 a er the end of the second republic, much of the thrust about Rural Integra on was put on the back burner with predictably disastrous results which is why the dishing out of pallia ves is now being unfortunately use to disguise a fundamental structural flaw. Only the administra on headed by Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (2010-2018) actually made a significant inroad into reviving the credo of Integrated Rural Development. We have to go back to this.
The government must now use the crisis in Ifon, Ilobu and Erin as an opportunity to effect an integrated rural development programme using the three communi es as prac cal research and implementa on base. The Chinese depict danger as a mixture of Crisis and Opportunity. Let us turn this unfortunate crisis into an opportunity to breathe new life into integrated rural development. Let us also not forget to expose those complicit in exploi ng the crisis so that deterrent for the future can be established.
The Importance Of Lent And Easter
Lent and Easter are an important part of the Chrisan calendar. A season (from Ash Wednesday unl Easter Eve) of self-examination, penitence, selfdenial, study, and prepara on for Easter. Its dura on (forty days plus Sundays) recalls the tempta on of Christ in the wilderness.
Although observing Lent it is not a biblical mandate, it can deepen your meditaon on the gospel and heighten your joy in the hope of Easter.
I learned the truth of God’s Word and knew that it was not good works that won God’s favour, nor rules and regula ons that earned us a spot in heaven. As Lent seemed to fall in the “rules and regulaons” category, I did not subscribe to this “man-made tradi on” that the Bible did not explicitly prescribe. Se ng aside the period of Lent to inten onally seek God in repentance and recommitment was not about earning one’s salva on but about preparing one’s heart for the miracle of Easter.
Lent comes from the Anglo Saxon word for ‘Spring’ where the days lengthen, giving one more me in the sun. Similarly as we “lengthen” the me we spend in the presence of the Son, the Holy Spirit awakens our hearts to the glory of the gospel.
Lent begins with Ash Wednesday, a day which may seem obscure and confusing to many. If you went to a Catholic school, someone probably smeared ashes on your forehead and you probably wanted to wipe it off as soon as possible. But Scripture shows ashes represents grief
over sin.
In the book of Job, we see Job si ng in dust and ashes as a sign of repentance (Job. 42:6). The rich symbolism of Ash Wednesday reminds us of our own fragility and humanness — that we are dust and will return to dust (Gen. 3:19).
Lent gives us the opportunity to move from brokenness to hope as we shi our gaze from the cross to the empty tomb. The ashes are smeared in the shape of a cross — redemp on is already here.
We observe Lent by fas ng from something we automa cally gravitate toward — alcohol, chocolate, coffee, meat, screen me, video games, music apps, or social media. By inten onally cu ng ourselves off from the things that temporarily sa sfy, we confront the fact that we may have created insidious idols of them.
A er weeks spent on medita ng on the Jesus’s cries in the garden of Gethsemane, the indigni es and torture he endured, the abandonment and betrayal he faced, the depravity of our sin which he bore, and the separa on from the Father that he experienced on our behalf, Lent breaks the ground of our hearts for the
glory of the resurrec on.
The resurrec on is not merely an occasion to celebrate. It is the very core of our faith. Without the empty tomb, our faith would be empty. Lent gives us the space to
“After Jesus fasted and prayed in the wilderness for 40 days, he began his earthly ministry. In those weeks in the desert, as a man, Jesus experienced hunger, loneliness, and temptation as the enemy tried to make him fall. Yet Jesus remained without sin and poured out his life even unto death”
let the miraculous wonder of Easter capture our hearts and move us to a place of recommi ng our lives for his glory.
A er Jesus fasted and prayed in the wilderness for 40 days, he began his earthly ministry. In those weeks in the desert, as a man, Jesus experienced hunger, loneliness, and tempta on as the enemy tried to make him fall. Yet Jesus remained without sin and poured out his life even unto death.
OSUN DEFENDER
Publisher – Moremi Publishing House Ltd.
Asst. News Editor – Yusuf Oketola
Asst. Features Editor – Kazeem Badmus
Deputy Photo Editor – Shola Aderinto
Deputy Graphics Manager – Zainab Olalere
Produc on Controller – Petkola Taiwo Ibitowa
OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Promise Point Building, Opposite Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State.
ISSN : 0794-8050
Telephone : 0809-301-9152
Website : www.osundefender.com/index.php e-mail : osundefenderhq@gmail.com osundefenderbank@gmail.com
All correspondence to the above email addresses.
Observing Lent is not easy. We may experience “withdrawal symptoms” from whatever our “fix” may be. But Jesus shows us the way, par cularly through his steadfastness and faithfulness in the wilderness.
As we reflect on the wondrous cross where the Prince of glory died, may we be moved to declare, “Love so amazing, so divine, demands my life, my soul, my all.”
•Pst Adegoke Ayinde is the General Overseer of Power of God Manifestation Assembly, Osogbo. He can be reached via adegokeayinde756@ gmail.com
Pst Adegoke Ayinde
Segilola Resources Acknowledges Inter-Ministerial Fact-Finding Report
SOur Reporter
EGILOLA Resources Opera ng Limited (SROL), has welcomed the findings of the Inter-Ministerial FactFinding Commi ee report on its dispute with Osun State Government, reaffirming its dedica on to transparency, compliance, and sustainable development in the state.
In a statement by its Country Manager, Aus n Menegbo, the company, which operates Nigeria’s first commercial gold mine, expressed sa sfac on with the report’s conclusions, par cularly its confirma on that SROL has adhered fully to its legal and regulatory obligaons.
The report also dismissed allega ons of environmental degrada on and clarified Osun State’s shareholding in Thor Explora ons Ltd, SROL’s parent company.
At a crucial mee ng in Abuja on Tuesday, the report was formally handed over to SROL, following extensive engagements with key stakeholders, including the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Henry
Why Osun Prone To...
•Continued from Page 2
anyone can do is to narrate, but a lot of historical facts are being distorted.
“The communal crises that happened in Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin Osun are about the distor on of facts. Facts should not be distorted on any account. As historians and future diplomats, I encourage us all let’s always side with facts. No ma er how we are emo onally attached to the subject, we should not allow the facts to get distorted.
“Not just for today, but for tomorrow. Part of the problem regarding the land issue is that our view as Africans, we are culturally and emo onally a ached to the land. But when culture and emo onal attachment to land become weaponised, it becomes a problem,” Adeleke said.
Offering solu on, Adeleke who said the current cycle of violence would be addressed through the State Security Trust Fund, that will help to enhance security in the state, and importantly, the state is looking to star ng a peace, safety and security programme right from primary school through the en re school system in the state. Let our youth know about peace right from primary school.”
Dele Alake.
One of the most significant resolu ons was the handover of Osun State’s share cer ficate in Thor Explora ons Ltd.
The report verified that the state had always been aware of the shares’ existence, which had remained in the custody of Tropical Mines Limited (TML).
During the mee ng, representa ves of TML officially transferred the share cer ficate to Osun State Governor, Senator
Ademola Adeleke.
The report also clarified that the ₦3.2 billion tax invoice previously issued to SROL was invalid, with the commi ee recommending that the revised tax invoice of ₦98.3 million undergo final reconcilia on to ensure a fair resolu on.
On environmental concerns, the commi ee found no evidence of environmental degrada on caused by SROL, ruling out any jus fica on for
addi onal environmental levies.
As part of its long-term commitment to Osun State, SROL reaffirmed its dedica on to supporting local communi es through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) ini aves and Community Development Agreements (CDA).
According to the statement; “The report affirms what we have maintained from the outset – SROL has acted in full compliance
with its legal and regulatory obliga ons, and the allega ons of wrongdoing were unfounded.
“Osun State Shareholding in Thor Exploraons Ltd
Following the acquision of the Segilola Gold Project by Thor Exploraons Ltd (SROL’s parent company), in August 2016, Thor issued 5,192,869 ordinary shares.
These shares have since been part of the Company’s ordinary
Art/Culture
The Untold Stories Of Africa: Personal Accounts Of Culture, History, And Change (1)
AFRICA is o en defined by broad narra ves—its breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and history of colonialism and resistance. Yet, beneath these overarching themes lie deeply personal stories, accounts that shape the very essence of African iden ty.
These stories, passed down through generaons or lived experiences, offer a more in mate perspec ve on Africa’s cultural richness, historical struggles, and ongoing transforma ons. From the wisdom of elders to the voices of young change-makers, Africa’s untold stories bring to life the spirit of resilience, adapta on, and progress.
Culture: The Threads That Bind Genera ons Africa’s cultural heritage is woven from centuries of tradi ons, music, art, and languages that con nue to thrive despite moderniza on. For many
Africans, culture is not just history—it is a lived experience, an iden ty passed down through oral tradions, rituals, and community prac ces.
Take the story of Mama Aduni, an elderly Yoruba woman in Osogbo, Nigeria, who has spent her life preserving the art of adire (indigo-dyed cloth). Her hands, wrinkled with age, s ll carefully fold and e pa erns before dipping fabric into vats of dye. “My mother taught me this, and her mother before her. It is more than fabric—it is who we are,” she says with pride.
While fast fashion has flooded the market, she remains devoted to her cra , ensuring that younger genera ons understand the significance of their heritage.
Similarly, in Ethiopia, the coffee ceremony remains a sacred tradi on. Unlike the quick, massproduced coffee culture in the West, the Ethio-
pian coffee ceremony is an intricate social experience, where fresh beans are roasted, ground, and brewed while stories are exchanged among family and friends. This tradi on is more than just about coffee—it symbolizes hospitality, pa ence, and communal bonding.
Such cultural prac ces, though some mes threatened by globaliza on, connue to serve as the heartbeat of African socie es. They remind the world that Africa is not merely a con nent of struggles but also one of deep-rooted tradi ons that withstand the test of me.
The Buried Voices of Struggle and Triumph History o en remembers Africa through the lens of colonialism and exploita on, but the personal stories of those who lived through these mes provide a richer, more nuanced understanding. These accounts reveal both the pain of the past and the resilience of a people determined to shape their des ny.
One such story is that of Papa Kofi, a 98-year-old Ghanaian man who vividly recalls the day his father was taken away by colonial authori es for resist-
shares and have no preferen al rights. The share cer ficate had remained in custody of Tropical Mines Limited, with the State’s knowledge.
“On the issue of the environment, the report confirmed that there is no evidence of any environmental degrada on on the part of Segilola and thus, there is no basis for the claim for addi onal environmental levies.
Earlier, Menegbo appreciated the efforts of the commi ee headed by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Henry Dele Alake, in ensuring a transparent and fair resolu on of the report.
“We appreciate the diligent efforts of the Honourable Minister of Solidtheensuring a transparent and fair resoluon of this ma er. This report confirms what we have maintained all along – that SROL has operated in full compliance with all regulatory requirements.”
The company reaffirmed its dedica on to strengthening its social license to operate, promoting responsible mining prac ces, and contributing to the sustainable development of Osun State and Nigeria’s mining sector.
ing unfair taxes. “We were just children, but we knew something was wrong.
Our fathers and uncles were being taken, and our mothers wailed in despair,” he recounts. Yet, Ghana became the first African na on to gain independence in 1957, and his genera on bore witness to the dawn of self-rule.
Further south, in South Africa, many remember the stories of Apartheid and the painful struggle for freedom. Nomsa, now in her six es, was a young girl when her brother was taken by security forces for protes ng against the oppressive regime.
“We were not afraid to stand up, but we paid the price,” she says. Despite the scars, she remains hopeful, believing that young South Africans today must learn from the
past to build a be er future.
Even beyond colonialism, history is filled with stories of African ingenuity and leadership. The great empires of Mali, Songhai, and Benin remind us that Africa was home to sophis cated socie es long before European contact.
Mansa Musa, the legendary emperor of Mali, remains one of history’s wealthiest figures, yet his story is seldom highlighted in mainstream historical narra ves. Personal accounts from griots (tradi onal storytellers) ensure that these legacies are not forgo en.
Change: The Rise of a New Africa
While Africa’s past is rich with history and tradi on, its present is one
•To be continued
Controversy Over Who Takes Custody Of Mentally Challenged Woman’s Baby In Osun
MONSURAT
Ajoke Foundaon (MAF) in partnership with the Osun State Ministry of Women Affairs has finally secured the custody of a baby delivered by a mentally challenged woman, simply iden fied as Simbi in Ilobu in Irepodun Local Government Area of the state.
This is coming days after disagreement on who take custody of the newborn between the family of the mother, MAF and an Ibadan based mental health care expert, Tasosand.
But the baby was later rescued from the woman in the presence of her family by the founder and president of MAF, Miss Ibrahim Ajoke on Monday, March 17, 2024 a day to the outbreak of the recent communal crisis in the town.
Speaking with OSUN DEFENDER on the development, Ajoke said she and her team a er securing the custody of the baby took her to the hospital for medical checkup due to some complicaons suffered where they spent five days.
Ajoke opinated that the baby has suffered high temperature, low respiratory issues and malaria to the ac on of one Taosand who also showed interest to have the baby in his custody.
She said: “Last week Monday, March 17, 2025, a mentally challenged woman gave birth to a baby in Ilobu. We received a call at Monsurat Ajoke Founda on on Tuesday, informing us about the situa on and reques ng our intervenon to rescue the baby.
“We promptly visited the Nigeria Police Force, Ilobu command, to collect a police extract before proceeding.
At the family’s house, accompanied by a police officer, we met the baby, the family, and the mother. Ini ally, the family was reluctant to cooperate, leading us to return to the police sta on to brief them on the situaon. The DPO added four more officers, and arrests were made among those disrup ng our intervenon.
“We returned to the sta on, where we met Taosand Concept, who introduced himself as an expert in mental health care. He claimed to have come to take the mother into custody.
We instructed Taosand to take the mother to the hospital while
•Simbi and her baby
we cared for the baby. However, things took a turn for the worse a er he le the sta on. At the police sta on, a government representa ve, the Zonal Officer of Women Affairs in Orolu Local Government wanted to take the baby to an un-
disclosed loca on. We declined, and the police dismissed us, returning the baby to the family.
our help, seeking a motherless home in Osogbo where they could monitor the child. We connected them with a reputable orphanage home, and the family agreed to hand over the child. We visited the orphanage’s headquarters, collected necessary documents, and conducted medical check-ups for the child.
“The child was admitted to the hospital with low respiratory issues and malaria, likely due to Taosand’s ac ons.
Taosand appeared at the hospital, causing a disturbance and threatening to discharge the mother.
TYusuf Oketola
HREE staff of a new genera on bank have wri en a pe on to the Chief Judge and Chairman, Osun State Judicial Service Commission, alleging a judicial officer in the state, Magistrate Adekanmi Adeyeba, of abuse of powers and in mida on among others.
Adeyeba is the presiding judge of Magistrate Court 5, si ng in Osogbo, Osun State capital.
The Pe oners, Abide Olayemi, Adetunji Halimah and Saheed Taiwo urged the Chief Judge of Osun State, Jus ce Adepele Ojo to direct a discreet inves ga on into the allega ons they leveled against Magistrate Adeyeba for appropriate disciplinary ac ons against him.
In the pe on wri en through their lawyer, A.M. Aliyu of Aliyu, Aliyu, Honour & Co, a copy made available to OSUN DEFENDER, they alleged that the Magistrate granted an order for reversal of the sum of N11,812,750.25 from Jaiz Bank Account Number: 0011426749 belonging to Auwal Shehu Yakasai to Access Bank Account Number:1391322450 belonging to one Chuanxin Qiu, notwithstanding the order of interim injunc on from the Kano State High Court restraining the Bank (Jaiz) from reversing the money. The order was granted September 30th, 2024.
The bankers, in the peon addressed to the CJ and dated March 2025, accused Magistrate Adeyeba of conspiring with Chuanxin Qiu
“On Wednesday, we updated Taosand on the situa on, but he didn’t respond un l evening. He claimed the child had been taken to Ibadan, but rela ves informed us that the child was at home. Taosand had taken the family to the Ministry of Women Affairs, a emp ng to persuade them to give the child up for adop on.
“The family declined, and Taosand took them
to an orphanage, which requested 30,000 Naira monthly and 9 ns of baby food. The family refused, and Taosand attempted to take them to Ibadan and later Iwo, but the child developed high temperatures.
“The family requested
Abuse Of Judicial Powers: Three Bankers Drag Osun Magistrate To Chief Judge Over Kano Transaction
through his lawyer Chief K E Ngwoke.
It was tled “Complaint of abuse of judicial powers, in mida on and disregard to judicial processes and interim order (S) of superior court of records and aiding acts likely to cause breach of public peace and and order.
The pe oners recalled that Mr Ayilara of Magistrate Court One, Osogbo, had ordered Jaiz Bank Plc and the pe oners to furnish account details of Auwal Shehu Yakasai, with Account Number: 0011426749 domiciled with the Kano Branch of the Bank and also placed a Post-No-Debit (PND) restric on on the said account of the customer pending an inves ga on on an alleged fraud case.
They alleged that while inves ga on was ongoing, Chuanxin Qiu, an applicant in the ma er, through his lawyer Chief K E Ngwoke filed a fresh applica on before Magistrate Court 5 presided over by Adeyeba for reversal of the sum of N11,812,750.25 from Jaiz Bank Account Number: 0011426749 belonging to Auwal Shehu Yakasai to Ac-
cess Bank Account Number: 1391322450 belonging to Chuanxin Qiu without any administra ve transfer of the ma er from Magistrate Court One to any other Magistrate Court.
The pe oners stated that Magistrate Adeyeba went ahead to grant the applica on on September 20, 2024 and directed Jaiz Bank Plc to reverse the said money from Jaiz Bank Account Number: 0011426749 belonging to Auwal Shehu Yakasai to Access Bank Account Number: 1391322450 belonging to Chuanxin Qiu instead of him to reject the applica on for being an abuse of court process and premature following the ongoing inves ga on of a related criminal complaint.
Assuming that Magistrate Adeyeba has jurisdicon, instead of making the reversal order to the Agil Technology with UBA account where the alleged fraud took place, the Magistrate rather ordered that the money be transferred to an individual account with Access Bank
They alleged that Magistrate Adeyeba, with disregard to the existence and pendency of the interim order of the Kano State High Court, denied them audience in his proceedings of February 14th, 2025 when he granted an applica on for their arrest and remand warrant.
The bankers said while s ll reviewing the two conflic ng orders, the decision of Magistrate Adeyeba to desperately grant the issuance of Forms 48 and 49
against them in a contempt proceedings, at the behest of Chief K E Ngwoke representing Chuanxin Qiu, depicted a calculated conspiracy, bias, sheer sen ment and par ality engrossed in abuse of judicial powers against them.
The pe oners added that Magistrate Adeyeba acted with impunity when he conspired with Chief K E Ngwoke lawyer represen ng Chuanxin Qiu with uniden fied plain clothes persons, who invaded the Osogbo Branch of Jaiz Bank and disrupted ac vi es in a bid to arrest them under a purported contempt proceedings that were at variance with their right to fair hearing.
They alleged that the Magistrate also disregarded the fact that the amount involved is beyond the financial jurisdic on of his court and that the en re transacon took place in Kano with none of the par es residing in Osun State
The bankers added that Magistrate Adeyeba totally disregarded the no ce of appeal and stay of proceeding filed at the Registry of his court against his earlier ruling on the ma er as well as stay of execu on and order of interlocutory injunc on filed at the High Court of Osun State in suit number HOS/M133/2025 between Jaiz Bank Plc and Chuanxin Qiu.
It was also said that there was an applica on from Chief K E Ngwoke to Magistrate Adeyeba to vary the Commi al Order of the Magistrate to include ALL THE STAFF of Jaiz Bank and the Magistrate is bent on hearing it notwithstanding that he is functus officio.
“We spent five nights in the hospital, ensuring the child’s safety, with support from Comrade Ishola Olateju. The child was discharged on March 25, 2025, and handed over to the family, who then gave custody to Monsurat Ajoke Foundaon. We transferred the child to the orphanage home, as agreed with the family.
“A er ensuring the child’s safety, we discovered that Taosand Concept had posted defamatory content about us on social media. Monsurat Ajoke Founda on is a registered organiza on with CAC and the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, Osun State. We have worked with government agencies and won several cases for children, women, and the less privileged.
“Monsurat Ajoke Founda on is a registered organiza on with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, Osun State. We are also registered with the Social Welfare Council of Nigeria (SCUNL) and have been in existence for almost 10 years, working closely with various government agencies, commissioners, directors, and social welfare departments within the Ministry of Women Affairs and Osun State.
“Our Convener serves as the Financial Secretary of the Child Protec on Network, Osun State Chapter. She has a proven track record of successfully handling numerous cases involving children, women, and vulnerable individuals. Notable examples include: Segun Olowookere’s case - Mariam Olapade, a child allegedly defiled by her biological father, Ladhifa Aijo, a Cameroonian girl lured into pros tu on among other.”
Yusuf Oketola
OAU Students Lament Lecturers’ Strike
THE students of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, last weekend, said “enough is enough” regarding the delay caused to medical students by the strike embarked upon by the Medical and Dental Consultants Associa on of Nigeria.
The Students’ Union at the university, led by the President, Secretary-General, and Public Rela ons Officer— Omoboriowo Isaac, Baba mehin Kinfeosi, and Aka Daniel, respecvely — expressed frustraon, saying their members were red of being “the collateral damage in a war we did not start.”
They stated that the over two-month strike, which has paralysed academic ac vi es for medical students, was causing their “dreams of becoming medical professionals to waste away for reasons beyond our control.”
OSUN DEFENDER reports that medical and dental students in the Colleges of Medicine and College of Health Sciences in the South-West have been
•Say Education Not Bargaining Chip
bearing the brunt of the ongoing strike by MDCAN in the region.
Thousands of medical and dental students at the Colleges of Medicine at the University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo Teaching Hospital, University of Lagos Teaching Hospital, University of Ado-Eki Teaching Hospital, and the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo, are affected by the strike.
The South-West zone of MDCAN declared an indefinite withdrawal of services by clinical lecturers in universi es across the region over the non-payment of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure.
OAU MDCAN, led by its chairman, Dr. Olufemi Ogundipe, stated in January 2025 that the strike was in line with the direcve from the associa on’s South-West zone, which ordered clinical lecturers to stop working a er the vicechancellors of three federal universi es in the region failed to place the lecturers on CONMESS, as is the case
in other medical colleges at Nigerian universi es.
However, the students said, “For months, clinical classes have been suspended, exams disrupted, and our academic progress stalled, all because of unresolved disputes over CONMESS and university governance policies.”
“We acknowledge the
lecturers’ right to demand fair pay and condi ons, but we refuse to con nue bearing the brunt of this impasse,” the students said in a statement signed by their leadership.
They demanded that both the university administra on and the Federal Government act swi ly to meet these demands and end the strike.
“Our educa on is not
Campus Review Campus Review
a bargaining chip. We, the students, are the heartbeat of this ins tu on. We have consulted, wri en le ers,
Osun Poly Mass Com Sets For Premiere Of New Film ‘Race Of Life’
THE Osun State Polytechnic Iree Mass Communica on department has set for the premiere of its new film, Race of Life (Ije Aye).
The film will be on screen at the Educa on TETFund (ETF Hall) of the ins tu on on 16th of April, 2025, OSUN DEFENDER gathered.
The medium learnt that the film, Race of Life, is the 7th edi on of film produced by the ins tuon’s mass communicaon department.
The film, a
and
Amos Joshua was jointly wri en by Amos Joshua, Adekunle Samsudeen, Adebayo Rasaq and Ola-
News
jire Omowumi, produced by Hnd 2 broadcast students led by Amusa Sodiq and the Senior Course Lecturer, Dr Aderemi Adeagbo.
Dr Idowu Akinrosoye is the execu ve producer and the ins tu on Rector, Com Kehinde Adeyemi Alabi is the Chief Producer.
Race of Life is directed by the Course Lecturer 2, Adekunle Sikiru (Abacus).
According to an announcement made by the mass communicaon department the film will also start showing on YouTube by April 28.
and pleaded for dialogue, yet the silence from those in power grows louder each day,” the union stated.
According to them, over 90 days without clinical training is not just a delay; “it’s a the of our me, a derailment of our careers, and a threat to the accredita on of our medical college.”
“We demand that all par es—MDCAN, the OAU administra on, and the Federal Government—settle their differences immediately and uncondi onally, resume nego a ons, implement CONMESS where it is due, and get us back to our classrooms and wards. We want to learn, we want to graduate, and we want to serve our na on as doctors and den sts. This strike must end now,” the statement concluded.
25-Year-Old Man Commits Suicide Over Hardship In Osun
Kazeem Badmus
A25-year-old man, Joseph Abodunrin, has commi ed suicide due to the cost of living in the country, which he allegedly claimed was taking a toll on his mental health.
The incident happened in the Dagbolu area of Osogbo, Osun State.
His death was confirmed on Thursday by a family member, Abodunrin Grace, via her X handle.
According to the lady who described him as his best brother, Joseph had hidden all his pain in smiles, pretending that everything was okay while encouraging them.
She wrote, “I s ll feel sha ered, many words but unprocessed. You were the best brother. You encouraged us all, but you went to voice out in a space we couldn’t think of. You hid it all from us. You went about with fake laughter and smiles. Now we can’t get over it.
“He is my cousin (man is just a big brother). None of our laments can bring him back; the tagging is too much! I personally have been too strong. It’s no one’s fault. Please, if there’s one or two, please, please try to heal. It is needed. We’re all striving! It’s not easy for anyone.
“A li le brief: With the expansion of lifestyle, econ-
omy, culture, arts, and all other life-based sectors!! Being sane and mentally stable is the only thing that can keep making all said work!!! Priori ze your mental well-being.”
Before his demise, Joseph had repeatedly made tweets revealing that he would have taken his life, but for his siblings, whom he encouraged to live.
He took to his account on January 31, 2025, saying, “If not for my siblings, I would not commit suicide. Those younglings are s ll full of op mism, hope, and dreams that I don’t want to squash with the news of my death.
Quo ng the same tweet on March 24, the day the 25-year-old ended it all, he, in a series of tweets, wrote,
“I’m sorry I failed you guys, I couldn’t just do it anymore… No ma er how I explain it. You won’t understand!!!
“I hope y’all find it in you to keep figh ng, hopeful, never nego a ng your dreams, and to finally and eventually thrive. That is my last wish. In everything, I give glory to God. I ran my race, and I gave it every-
thing I had. Finally passing on the baton.
“Nothing much to say again…My passwords are in the first page of my diary. Goodbye!”
On March 9, he also queried his decision on not fast-tracking his suicide mission, stressing, “I have asked myself several mes why I should fight and keep figh ng to stay alive, and I
Phone Thieves Bag 3-year Jail For Attacking Lady With Knive
Jamiu Akintayo
AN Osun State Magistrate’s Court, si ng in
Osogbo has sentenced two phone thieves to ten years imprisonment for robbing a lady of her iPhone.
The convicts, Adewale Ogundipe (30)
and Saheed Gbenga (25) were said to have robbed one Jaleyemi Abisola of her phone and also threatened to kill her with a knife.
The duo commited
New Measuring Bowl Unveiled In Osun
Jamiu Tajudeen
OSUN State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has unveiled new measuring bowl called ‘Osunwon imole,’ for use in markets across the state
While unveiling the measuring bowl in Osogbo, the governor said the introduc on of this ini a ve is meant to restore fairness in trade and protect interests of all stakeholders
Governor Adeleke, who was represented by his
Deputy, Kola Adewusi, recalled how the use of substandard measuring bowls in markets have caused untold hardship for both buyers and sellers in the state.
He said Many of the traders, knowingly or unknowingly, have used inaccurate measures that lead to losses for consumers and undermined trust in business transac ons.
He also noted that the state government has taken a decisive ac on by intro-
ducing Osunwon Imole to restore fairness in trade and protect the interests of all stakeholders.
Earlier, the State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Bunmi Jenyo, said the government would ensure diligent implementa on of the ini a ve
the offence on September 17, 2024 at about 9pm at Ijetu Community, Ilesa garage, Osogbo. They were convicted by Magistrate Adebola Odeleye a er they were found guilty of the fourcount charge bordering on conspiracy, stealing and threat to life levelled against them by the police.
Earlier, the police prosecutor, ASP Olayiwola Rasak presented the fact of the case to the court. Some exhibits which includes a knife, iPhone, face cap and a motorcycle was presented before the court as exhibits respec vely.
The offence according to the police contravened sec ons 516, 390(9) and 80(1) of the Criminal Code, Cap 34, Vol. II, Laws of Osun, 2002.
have not go en any meaningful answer ever since. I really don’t see any reason to con nue here.”
Then, he further wrote,
“But March is a decision month. None of what I am experiencing and feeling is not my fault…(sic) I didn’t create myself, no power over the gene I inherited or the parents I was born through…I have tried to seek help, but absolutely made it worse…I’m praccing self-compassion through this whole process, regardless of whatever decision I make.”
When contacted, the spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command, ASP Akeem Adeoye, said that he was not aware of the incident while promising to get back if there is any development.
“I am not aware of it. Maybe the family does not want it out. But I will let you know about any development,” he said.
•Late Abodunrin
story by Olajire Omowumi
Morayo Akinrinlola
Latifat Bello
What I Told My Players After Osimhen’s Goal Against Zimbabwe – Eric Chelle
Michael Owowole
SUPER Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has revealed what he told his players a er Osimhen’s goal against Zimbabwe in their frustra ng 1-1 draw in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Tuesday.
The Warriors’ body language showed they were in Uyo to frustrate the Super Eagles and hand them a blow in their bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, to be staged in the US, Mexico, and Canada.
Nigeria took the lead in the 74th minute through a trademark header from Victor Osimhen but allowed the Warriors to fight back and salvage a point in stoppage me when Tawanda Chirewa slotted
Nwabali.
The Super Eagles can s ll make it to the Mundial, although they find themselves in a dire situa on, trailing South Africa by six points with four rounds remaining.
He told reporters a er the game, “We tried to score many goals, and a er we scored, I told my players to con nue trying to score another goal.
“We were a li le red.
We need ten seconds to analyze this goal because we made a small mistake to concede the goal.
“This is how we conceded against Rwanda here. This goal determined the result of the match.”
A er six matches in Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the Super Eagles are currently si ng fourth in the table with seven points.
World Cup Winner
FIFA has revealed that the winner of the 2025 Club World Cup will earn up to $125 million in prize money.
This announcement comes as part of the details for the expanded event, set to take place in the United States from June 14 to July 13.
The total prize pool for the compe on will reach $1 billion, with $525 million allocated for all par cipa ng teams, which will be divided based on their performance in the tournament.
The remaining $475 million will be awarded according to the teams’ results during the matches.
The champion of the compe on could walk away with a record $125 million, including bonuses.
European teams will receive the highest share of the prize money, with each club expected to earn between $12.81 million and $38.19 million.
money, FIFA plans to launch a solidarity program that will distribute an addi onal $250 million to football clubs around the world.
South American clubs will each be granted $15.21 million for their par cipaon, while teams from North and Central America, the Caribbean, Asia, and Africa will receive $9.55 million.
The Oceania representave, Auckland City, will take home $3.58 million. In addi on to the prize
FIFA President Gianni Infan no expressed that this will be the largest prize pool ever for a compe on that includes both a group stage and knockout phase.
The event will also support the global development of football, with all proceeds being reinvested into club football worldwide.
Communal Clash: Ilobu’s Chief In Police Custody Over Gruesome Murder Of Ifon Indigene
Kazeem Badmus
THE Baale of Ayedaade community in Ahoro
Afin, a border community between Ifon, Ilobu, and Erin, Chief Tajudeen Oderinde, has been arrested over the alleged killing of one Lukman Akorede, an indigene of IfonOsun.
Oderinde is one of the chiefs of the Olobu of Ilobu, Oba Ashiru Olatoye. OSUN DEFENDER gathered that Oderinde ordered the killing of Akorede, a staff of Orolu local government a er the deceased was apprehended by some hoodlums in the area on Wednesday morning.
OSUN DEFENDER re-
ports Ifon-Osun, Ilobu and Erin communi es renewed their clash over boundary dispute last week Friday.
Following the deadly clash on Friday, the state governor, Ademola Adeleke, invited the monarchs of the three communi es, where a peace pact was signed with a threat to suspend the monarch if the violence con nued.
Sources told OSUN DEFENDER that Akorede who had a house at Ahoro Afin, Ifon Osun, a border area with Erin and Ilobu, le home when the trouble started on Friday and moved to his family house in Ifon.
However, a friend of the deceased, whose house, also in Ahoro Afin,
for him.
•Victim’s Body Dismembered
was torched during the violent clash but ran away for safety, beckoned on Akorede to follow him to the house on Wednesday morning to see if he could get some clothes for his children.
The two friends, alongside two other people, went to pick up the clothes, but they were allegedly ambushed by some hoodlums who arrested and took them to Oderinde.
On ge ng there, the sources said the community chief allegedly ordered the killing of Akorede while the other three Ifon indigenes were asked to be taken to the Olobu’s palace.
However, they were intercepted by the an -kidnapping squad of the Osun State Police Command, and the police personnel arrested them and took them to the state Criminal Inves ga on Department, where they were informed about the murder of Akorede.
OSUN DEFENDER gathered that security agencies, which included soldiers and police officers, went to the community chief house but didn’t find the Akorede’s corps.
is also in that area. It is a border area with Erin and Ilobu.
“Since the trouble started last week, they had vacated their houses and came to stay at their family houses in Ifon. So, Gideon, Akorede, and two other friends went to Ahoro Afin, but they were waylaid by some hoodlums from Ilobu who rounded them up and took them to Chief Oderinde’s house.
the police called their colleagues in Ifon to go and confirm. Soldiers and other security agents went to the area to search for Akorede’s body. They found his body at a ritual den, and his head, his two hands,s, and his le leg were cut off. Also, his intes ne was removed.
“The Baale and some other people were arrested and have been taken to the state CID. All we are calling for is jus ce. Akorede did not deserve to die. He is a hardworking man whose life was cut short by these evil people.”
56-year-old Woman Remanded For N25m Visa Scam
Kazeem Badmus
Amagistrate court sitng in Osogbo, Osun State capital, has remanded a 56-year-old woman, Adenike Okunrinmeta, in the Ilesa correc onal facility over an alleged N25m visa scam.
The defendant was arraigned on three counts of fraud and pervasion of jusce. According to the charge sheet obtained by Punch Metro on Monday, Okunrinmeta between April 2023 and January 2024 allegedly obtained the sum of twenty-five million, two hundred and ten thousand naira (#25,210,000:00k) from one Azizi Danjuma under the pretence of procuring a Contract of Sponsor (COS) visa to the United Kingdom
Okunrinmeta was also alleged to have jumped a police bail granted to her on the 24 day of November 2024 and refused to make herself available to the police over the ma er.
Police Prosecutor Elisa Olusegun said the offence is contrary to and punishable under Sec on 419 of the Criminal Code Cap 34 Vol.II Laws of Osun State of Nigeria, 2002.
The defendant, however, pleaded not guilty to the three charges leveled against her.
Defense counsel, J.P Jones, prayed the court to admit the defendant to bail in the most liberal term, no ng that she is presumed innocent un l proven otherwise.
However, Olusegun objected the oral bail applicaon, arguing that the defendant had earlier jumped
the police bail granted to her.
The police prosecutor said that the defendant had refused to appear before the court twice, no ng that Okunrinmeta’s a endance in the court was because one of her surety, who was arrested and arraigned, promised to produce her.
In his ruling, Magistrate Dr Olusegun Ayilara adjourned the case ll March 26, 2025, for ruling on bail.
However, the deceased dismembered body was found in a shrine near the community chief house, a development that led to the arrest of the community chief and some other people.
A family source who does not want his name in print while narra ng how the incident happened said a er killing the vic m, the community chief allegedly dismembered his body.
According to the source and pictures obtained by OSUN DEFENDER, Lukman’s head, hands, and le leg were cut off while his intes ne was also removed.
The source said, “Yesterday, Lukman Akorede, a staff of Orolu Local Government who is not armed and a gentle person, was killed gruesomely by Ilobu people.
“It was his friend, Gideon whose house was burnt down by Ilobu people that called on him to follow him to Ahoro Afin area where his house was located to get some clothes for his children. Lukman’s house
“One ge ng there, the chief ordered that they should kill Akorede and asked his boys to lead the other three people to the palace of Olobu. However, on their way to the palace, they were stopped by an An -kidnapping squad who arrested and took them to the state Criminal Inves ga on Department, Osogbo.
“It was there they told the policemen that one of them had been killed and
When contacted to confirm the arrest, the spokesperson for Osun State Police Command, ASP Akeem Adeoye said he has not been briefed on the ma er.
Adeoye promised to get back when he has more informa on on the ma er.
past goalkeeper Stanley
•Akorede
Jamiu Tajudeen
FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 2025 - THURSDAY, APRIL 03, 2025 VOL. 20 NO 12 www.osundefender.com, email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com
OSUN State, located in southwestern Nigeria, stands at a pivotal juncture in its economic development. The state’s aspira on for industrial growth necessitates a cri cal evalua on of its infrastructure to determine readiness for such advancement.
Infrastructure—encompassing transporta on networks, energy supply, water resources, and telecommunica ons— serves as the backbone of industrializa on.
Transporta on Infrastructure
Efficient transporta on systems are vital for industrial ac vi es, facilita ng the movement of raw materials and finished goods. Osun State has made notable strides in this sector.
A study assessing road transport infrastructure in Osogbo, the state capital, revealed that about 77% of surveyed roads were characterized by potholes, and approximately 92% lacked road signs. Such deficiencies hinder efficient transporta on and pose safety risks.
Addressing these issues through regular maintenance and the installa on of necessary road furniture is impera ve to support industrial logis cs and mobility.
Energy Infrastructure
Reliable energy supply is a cornerstone of industrializa on. Manufacturing firms in Nigeria, including those in Osun State, o en grapple with electricity outages and voltage fluctua ons. These challenges lead to increased opera onal costs as industries resort to alterna ve power sources, such as generators, thereby affec ng compe veness.
To mi gate these challenges, Osun State has explored renewable energy solu ons. Collabora ons between the Bank of Industry and the United Na ons Development Programme have facilitated the installa on of solar energy solu ons in some off-grid communi es across the state.
Expanding such ini a ves can provide sustainable energy alterna ves for industrial opera ons, reducing reliance on the naonal grid and enhancing energy security.
Water and Sanita on Infrastructure
Adequate water supply and sanita on facili es are essen al for industrial processes and workforce welfare. While specific data on Osun State’s water infrastructure is limited, it is acknowledged that many Nigerian states face challenges in providing consistent water services.
Industries o en resort to self-supply mechanisms, such as boreholes, which may not be sustainable in the long term. Investing in water treatment and distribu on systems is crucial to meet industrial demands and ensure environmental sustainability.
Telecommunica ons Infrastructure
In the digital age, robust telecommunica ons infrastructure underpins industrial efficiency, enabling seamless communicaon and integra on into global markets.
“Osun State possesses significant potential for industrial growth, underpinned by its strategic location and resource endowments. However, realising this potential is contingent upon the development of robust infrastructure that meets the demands of modern industries”
By MATT. OLU OLOWOKERE PERSPECTIVE
•Say Education Not Bargaining Chip
public-private partnerships and alterna ve financing models can mobilize the necessary capital for development.
Assessing Osun State’s Infrastructure: Are We Ready for Industrial Growth?
Osun State has witnessed improvements in this sector, with increased mobile penetraon and internet connec vity.
However, dispari es in access and service quality remain, par cularly in rural areas. Bridging this digital divide through investments in broadband infrastructure and policies promo ng affordable access can enhance industrial compe veness and innova on.
Government Ini a ves and Policy Framework
Recognizing the pivotal role of infrastructure in economic development, the Osun State government has ini ated several programs aimed at infrastructural enhancement. The Medium-Term Sector Strategy (MTSS) for 2019–2021 outlines objec ves such as expanding the road network, maintaining exis ng infrastructure, and improv-
STRIKER
Fing access to electricity.
Addi onally, the unveiling of a mul -billion naira infrastructure plan underscores the government’s commitment to addressing infrastructural deficits.
While these ini a ves are commendable, effec ve implementa on, transparent monitoring, and community engagement are cri cal to their success. Ensuring that infrastructural projects align with industrial needs and are executed efficiently will bolster investor confidence and s mulate economic growth.
Challenges and Recommenda ons Despite ongoing efforts, several challenges impede Osun State’s infrastructural readiness for industrial growth:
1. Funding Constraints: Limited financial resources hinder the ini a on and compleon of infrastructural projects. Exploring
2. Maintenance Culture: The prevalence of deteriorated infrastructure points to inadequate maintenance prac ces. Establishing dedicated maintenance agencies and alloca ng funds for regular upkeep can prolong the lifespan of infrastructural assets.
3. Integrated Planning: Disjointed planning processes can lead to infrastructure that does not cohesively support industrial ac vi es. Adop ng an integrated approach that considers spa al planning, environmental impact, and industrial requirements is essen al.
4. Capacity Building: Developing the technical exper se of local personnel ensures that infrastructure projects are designed, implemented, and managed effecvely. Inves ng in training programs and knowledge transfer ini a ves can build this capacity.
Osun State possesses significant potenal for industrial growth, underpinned by its strategic loca on and resource endowments. However, realizing this poten al is con ngent upon the development of robust infrastructure that meets the demands of modern industries.
While progress has been made in sectors such as transporta on and energy, substan al work remains to address existing gaps and challenges.
Through strategic planning, effec ve implementa on, and collabora ve efforts, Osun State can build an infrastructural founda on that not only supports industrializa on but also enhances the quality of life for its residents.
Striker is not the opinion of the Columnist featured above
OR the discerning, democracy is in clear and present danger and there is the urgent need to build an “army” for democracy. Anyone who had experienced the rule of force in any form will agree with what is usually said that “the worst democracy is be er than the best dictatorship.” However, when you now find yourselves in an era when those who have studied the methods of a military “president” have now graduated and perfected his strategies as civilian “emperors,” there is a need to fight for genuine democracy against its caricature: a civilian dictatorship (that has acquired a professorship in cancerous corrup on, toxic nepo sm, deadly impunity, illusion of omnipotence and invincibility).
Let us keep in mind that genuine democracy is s ll the best form for all kinds of conflict resolu on, as it adequately provides mechanism for consensus building as well as healthy, non-fatal rivalry for the triumph of the posi on of the majority. Burdened with the hangover of hundreds of years of monarchy, colonialism and brutal military dictatorship, the common people and the elites (in common, when they are the beneficiary and not the vic m) have a penchant for dictatorship, strong-arm tac cs and even naked use of force in resolving social issues. Many in posi ons of authori es (within the family, associa on, clubs, socie es, schools, trade ins tu ons, government, etc) are disposed to lording it over the majority and having their way without recourse to debates, consultaons, nego a ons or vo ng.
Every faith needs strong and commi ed disciples and we are right now at a cri cal me when all those who genuinely believe
Votaries Of Democracy
in Democracy must come together across all divides: poli cal, religious, ethnic and so on, to work fervently towards building acceptance of democracy (democra c consciousness) and commitment to it in the minds of majority in our society. Already, there exists a pla orm for inter-party coopera on in Nigeria - the Conference of Nigerian Poli cal Par es. One of its many objec ves ordinarily should be to work for everything that promotes and protects democracy and its ins tu ons as well as work against all forces and dictatorial processes that undermine democracy irrespec ve of party affilia ons.
It is high me poli cally ac ve ci zens across the country, especially the youths, came together as non-par san Sen nels of Democracy irrespec ve of their affilia ons. There are 774 Local Government Areas in Nigeria and the journey to 774 begins with 1. One single individual in one Local Government Area, who is deeply commi ed to democra c ideal is sufficient to start a movement that might save the democra c day in a Nigeria which today is confronted with telling challenges not only to democracy but its survival, on account of deepseated crises everywhere - the economy, polity, security, etc, on account of the ac vi es of an -democra c forces everywhere you look, in and out of government.
Every structure of the Nigerian society and every ci zen exist in the men oned 774 Local Government Areas - the market, the palaces, the worship centres, military bases, universi es, etc. The duty of com-
mi ed defenders of democracy, when they find and assemble themselves, is to clarify their ideas and firm up their methods, and reach out to all well-meaning ci zens within their LGAs as to convince them not only to buy into and adopt the democra c ideals but be as well commi ed to defending it at all mes, across every divide. We need democracy first before there can be either poli cs or democra c governance and development.
To appreciate what happens when democracy is pulled down by cumula ve andemocra c ac ons, policies and forces, all you need do is Google and study SYRIA. There are many more such examples, where devotees of the democra c ideals slept off or lost track and are sucked into the cesspool as the country slides off into anarchy, and untold loses in human and material terms. To recover, even into the former poor and sorry state of things will take survivors decades of rebuilding, if not hundreds of years!
It is said that the best me to grow a tree was 20 years ago but the next best me to do it is today! “Time is always right to do the right thing,” said Rev, Dr. Mar n Luther King Jnr, and there is no be er me for every believer that is commi ed to democracy to come together than NOW. The task at hand is clear: there must be democracy first before there can be any poli cal ambi on - protec ng democracy from dying in the hands of bad governance and an -democra c forces are a primal, more urgent and noble devo on.
OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Promise Point Building, Opposite Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State. All correspondence to the Asst. News Editor, YUSUF OKETOLA, Telephone: 0809-301-9152. ISSN: 0794-8050. Website: www.osundefender.com Email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com, osundefenderhq@gmail.com
•Matt Olu OLOWOKERE (Engr.) Past GM, ORMA February 4th, 2025.