Osun Defender Online Version Of September 7, 2018

Appreciating Years Of Symbolic Progressive Politics

As a momentous era of transformation comes to an end soon, SOLOMON ODENIYI looks at the interventions of the symbol of progressive politics, Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola in the State of Osun.

A compendium of views and assessments. PAGES 6 & 8

Anxiety Ahead Of Osun Guber Poll

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VOL. 013. NO.33

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CULTURE

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Osun Osogbo:

Beyond Religious Festivity PAGE 18

• Parties Raise Alarm

Osun 2018: Ooni, Aregbesola Rally Support For APC Candidate SEE PAGE 2

•A mammoth crowd of APC supporters at Ile-Ife on Tuesday.

e Pag3

2

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Anxiety Ahead Of Osun Guber Poll 3

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NEWS

•Parties Raise Alarm

By Sikiru Obarayese

party’s campaign billboard located at Kajola along the busy Osogbo-Ilesa Road recently and explained that the culprit is believed to be APC agents.

It also raised alarm over an alleged plot by APC to have some of its prominent members

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

arrested on trumped-up charges days to the election.

The Director of Publicity and Information of the party Mr. Ayobami Fakeye in a statement alleged that the APC is planning to kidnap, arrest or even eliminate some of his party members before the election.

Similarly, the chairman of SDP in Osun, Dr Bayo

Faforiji accused some parties for inducing people with money to have their vote ahead the governorship poll.

According the him, “Investigation has shown that some unscrupulous elements from the quarters of failed candidates are all out now, in Osogbo, the state capital, running heltersketer and luring the unsuspecting public into

selling their consciences for provisional cash.”

“With the issue of “see and buy” in the July election of Ekiti State staring our nascent democracy in the face, it is crucial to point out that the action is not only condemnable, it is also threatening the credibility and fairness of the forthcoming September 22 governorship election in Osun state.”

With few weeks to the September 22 governorship election in Osun, there has been gradual build up of tension, as political parties in the state have been accusing one another of acts capable of inciting violence among their supporters.

While the ADP is rascals”, saying, “this accusing the ruling APC statement to us in the of plans to use state forces SDP especially to Senator against its members, the Omisore “is unfortunate, for and APC is alleging the later uncalled of vandalizing its undemocratic”.

Also, the ADP called billboards in some areas of the state and the SDP on the public to ignore also accused other parties the allegation, saying it of plans to indulge in vote was part of a grand plan to find excuses to arrest buying.

Spokesperson of the major contenders in the APC in Osun, Kunle election.

Its statement, which Oyatomi Esq, on Saturday accused Social was signed by the of Media and Democratic Party, (SDP), Director Publicity, Moshood and, Action Democratic Adeoti Campaign Party, (ADP), of Organization, Mr Kayode destroying its campaign Agbaje, said findings by banners mounted in Ife the party showed that no and Iwo. billboard was vandalized The party scowled on in both towns. the extensive “We also want to state vandalization of its it for the record that the candidate’s billboards in party is also capable of the two cities which are vandalizing its own the home towns of the billboards and later come ADP and SDP back to accuse others of gubernatorial candidates, committing the crime,” Alhaji Moshood Adeoti the statement read in •Wife of the Governor, State of Osun, Mrs Sherifat Aregbesola and wife of the APC Governorship Candidate in and Senator Iyiola part.

Osun, Mrs Kafayat Oyetola in a group photograph with wives of the state council chairmen in Osun after a meeting Omisore respectively.

Agbaje also alleged in Osogbo.

Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI The APC, pointed at APC for vandalizing its Senator Omisore and Alhaji Adeoti as the beneficiaries of the vandalism, saying the

By Sikiru Obarayese against the Governor of Paragraph 16 of the Ikire. duo will account for the Subsequently, on An Osogbo High Court has fixed September 12 Osun, the State Attorney referred legal advice act in the face of law.

General and the State which is yet to be given Wednesday, counsel to Oyatomi disclosed that for hearing of the suit filed against the installation Commissioner for Local strict and full Prince Olanrewaju, Dr Akire of Ikireland, Irewole Local Government candidates, who remain of Government and compliance”.

Olutayo Oyewale had Council Area of Osun, Oba Olatunde Falabi. silent when their Chieftaincy Affairs.

After hearing the filed the application Prince Tajudeen grant the appellant’s supporters are In the suit, he sought seeking and order of the matter, Justice Kudirat of Aketula (Tajudeen Olanrewaju) and order of the court committing crime, would Olarewaju ruling House has filed a request, the Akire, Oba granting leave “to bring Akano granted the leave court to direct the be called upon to account suit and the against the to the applicant “to bring Governor because they are the installation of the Falabi would be deposed, an application for judicial an application for judicial Attorney-General to beneficiaries of the monarch on the ground but if the appeal fails, the review to wit mandamus review to wit mandamus implement the legal compel the vandalism of these that he was not entitled to monarch would retain the to compel the advice of 1993 which seat. respondents to give legal to rascals. the throne as at the time Subsequently, Prince and full compliance to the respondents to give legal gives credence to the 1958 The APC had he was installed based on Olanrewaju filed a suit Chieftaincy advice dated 27th and full compliance to the Akire threatened to do what is the 1958 Akire which ran through to legal January, 1993 which was legal advice dated 27th Declaration. necessary through the Chieftaincy Declaration.

Supreme Court, where the instrument relied January, 1993, which was Therefore the matter law enforcement The legal tussle on the highest court of the had been adjourned to agencies to sustain peace Akire of Ikire erupted land agreed that Aketula upon by the respondents the instrument relied Wednesday, September install the Akire of Ikre upon by the respondents in the state. after the demise of the late ruling house was entitle to land particularly, to install the Akire of 12 for hearing.

Oba Oseni to the throne.

However, the SDP and Akire, the ADP have denied Oyegunle on the 5th In a copy of the vandalizing the August, 1987 and as at the judgement which was billboards of the ruling time, according to a legal made available to OSUN establishing library in the party in the said two advice from the Court of DEFENDER, the highest

By Sikiru Obarayese Appeal, Ibadan, the court of the land held society for the benefit of towns. ruling houses entitled to The State Government of Osun has promised to our pupils in the state. that, “In view of the fact While reacting to the He said, accusation, the SDP said the throne were in the that evidence on record establish functional libraries in all the public primary the APC should check order of, Aketula, shows that the 1958 and secondary schools in the state so as to encourage “educationanist like Prof.

Ladekan, Lambeloye, and promote reading among pupils.

Wole Soyinka, Prof. declaration in respect of itself and stop associating Akire of Ikire Chieftaincy the party and its Disamu and Omisokan.

Tutor-General of decision to make sure that Chinua Achebe, Prof. Ola According to the legal stool has not been theThe candidate with its (APC) state, Mr. Anthony all Schools in this state are Rotimi, Prof. Olukoye advice dated, January 27, amended or repealed, it Famoriyo made this woes in the State. equipped with functional Ransome-kuti and others 1993, it showed that, made use of their fathers’ SDP described the efforts to get the new subsist which means that known on Wednesday libraries”. there are five ruling during an event organized “Library is very libraries in their younger APC statement as an act Akire nominated from capable of inciting Aketula ruling house was houses in Ikire for which to celebrate the Library essential tool that student age and reached apex of life”. violence among party frustrated by court action the appellant is one of Week in Osogbo, capital of needs to reach higher their The former Principal of them. the state. nowadays because they supporters and urged the through injunction “Based on the above, Famoriyo who spoke on will gain and acquire a lot Saint Charles Government party to conduct its secured by Lambeloye and the more detailed High School Osogbo also activities with decorum. ruling house which Oba reasons given in the lead the theme, “Library and of knowledge from there” advised the students to Media as catalyst for he added.

SDP frowned at the Falabi belongs to judgment, I agree that the Nation and He noticed that schools cultivate reading culture claim by the APC in the restraining government appeal has merit. I Security” Unity said the without library are just a in their endeavors so as to Press Release that from implementing the accordingly allow this Government had made it play ground for pupils meet up with the trends of “candidates who remain 1958 Chieftain appeal”, the judgment a priority to establish well while observing that great western world. silent when their Declaration which placed delivered by Justice John equipped libraries in other men in the society attained He commended the supporters are Aketula to produce the Inyang Okoro read. to broaden the minds of peak of their studies with State Government of Osun committing crime, would next monarch for the under the leadership of Subsequently, Prince the pupils in the state. help of library. be called upon to account town.

Olanrewaju of Aketula According to him, “the He urges every Ogbeni Aregbesola for It was in the same legal ruling house approached State Government is very stakeholder because they are the in the building libraries in the beneficiaries of the advice that it was stated the High Court sitting in passionate about libraries education sector to present newly constructed vandalism of these that if the Higher Court Osogbo in a suit he filed and this has informed the cultivate an idea of schools across the State.

Akire Chieftaincy Declaration Tussle: Court

Fixes September 12 For Hearing

Osun To Establish Libraries In Public Schools

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Osun 2018: We Are Ready For A Smooth Poll - Osun REC 4

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NEWS

Continuous Voters million voters were of 463,186 PVCs that

By Solomon Odeniyi Registration (CVR) on the registered nationwide remained uncollected in The Independent National Electoral Commission 31st of August, 2018, 13.6 and from the breakdown Osun, it was just 1% (INEC) has stated that as of Tuesday, 4th of September, 2018 out of 1,682,195 voters registered, a total number of 1,213,026 Permanent Voters’ Card (PVC) have been collected remaining 463,186, a pursuit of his figure which represented about 22.37%.

By Solomon Odeniiyi gubernatorial ambition in This formed part of the fairness and accuracy Osun governorship candidate of the African the scheduled September welcome address by Mr. and INEC expects Democratic Congress (ADC), Alhaji Fatai Akinbade 22, election, Akinbade Olusegun Agbaje, the reportage that is based on said he would not abandon any of the ongoing vowed not to abandon Osun State INEC Resident what is taking place since projects embarked upon by the administration of any ongoing project Electoral Commissioner it is likely that conflict Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola. embarked upon by the (REC) during a one day may occur, journalists Akinbade also assured Secretary to the State incumbent APC led Sensitization Forum for should be careful on what that an ADC-led Government gave these administration in the Media Executives and to report”. administration in the state.

Reporters on the Conduct Oyekanmi also state would work round assurances at a meeting “I want to assure you the Osogbo of Osun Governorship cautioned against the use the clock to further with that the ADC Election which held at of hate speeches in the transform Osogbo, with a Community led by Alhaji administration under my Ideal Nest Hotel, Osogbo election reports and view to enhancing its Tunde Badmus and Chief leadership, will not urged the media to status as the state capital. Gabriel Oparanti, the abandon any ongoing on Wednesday.

Ajagunna of Osogbo on Venerable Steven maintain balance.

In a statement by his project embarked upon The CPS disclosed that spokesperson, Kayode Monday.

Ojewande, the Director of In furtherance to the by the incumbent APC Voter Education and as at the closing of the Oladeji, the former led administration. As a Publicity who stood in for the (REC), also revealed that the Commission had put machineries in motion to ensure the election is free, fair and credible.

According to him, “INEC has taken steps to ensure comprehensive and targeted voters’ education, collection of PVCs in 334 wards in the state, training of security agents at the state, senatorial and local government areas, upgrading of card readers, conducting regular meetings with relevant agencies, distribution of final list of registered voters to the 48 political parties contesting, publication of •Wife of the Governor State of Osun, Mrs Sherifat Aregbesola (right) presenting cheque of N500,000 to Miss Bamidele final list of governorship Oluwatoyin to further her Education in Osogbo as part of her foundation, SCARF Educational Grant. aspirants and their Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI running mates and training of poll officials and supervisors”.

He also added that for to announce election him, “is the movement of the smooth flow of the

By Murtala Agboola results not approved by what is bad to what is election, the Commission had created 3,010 polling President of Osun State Muslim Community INEC, as he charged good”.

He prayed Almighty units, 755 voting points, (OSMC), Alhaji Mustafa Olawuyi has said the body voters who are yet to 332 Registration Area all is against the return of public schools to former collect their permanent Allah that “Osun State voters cards (PVC) to do should have a free, fair, which will be in the 30 proprietors. credible, transparent and local government areas in Governance, so now.

This, according to the Good the state.

Hijra, according to peaceful election”.

Procedure and Process: In his opening remark, Muslim leader, is because Islamic Perspective will Mr. Rotimi Lawrence the government has be discussed by Oyekanmi, the Chief spent public money to renowned academics.

Press Secretary (CPS) to rebuild them into the

By Murtala Agboola Olawuyi wondered the INEC Chairman, state of the art hence why Nigerians are so Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has revealed that the cannot be given back to interested in having as again reiterated the need for members of the society Gubernatorial Election in the original owners.

Olawuyi averred that many as 91 registered to embrace work and productivity as a means of Osun would be the 7th that the Commission had since the take-over of political parties with 48 creating wealth to boost economy. by the candidates contesting the conducted after the 2015 schools He stated that the “The level of wealth we gubernatorial wealth of the society is can boast of as a people is government, all schools Osun Presidential Election.

He added that since the have become public asset elections. directly tied to the wealth limited to the effort we put By his analysis, “China of the people which can into being productive. It is inception of the tenure of with the government the incumbent chairman paying the salary of with over 1.4 billion only be achieved through also very unfortunate that of the Commission, teachers and other people has only 7 hard work. our population is growing political parties while Professor Mahmood workers.

Aregbesola stated this at an alarming rate which Yakubu, INEC had The Islamic Cleric said India with 1.3 billion recently while delivering is the reason why the operated an open door this at the press population has 11 parties. an address at the State of percentage of poor people policy and the media had conference heralding the Nigeria with 180 million Osun Merit Award and is on the increase in our been given a pride of activities marking 1440 people has parties with Public Service Lecture country. place.

AH New Islamic more coming. which was held in “You cannot be richer “INEC holds quarterly calendar at the OSMC He noted that the than the effort you put into meetings with the media Secretariat, West Bye country does not need Osogbo. work and the same thing The governor stressed where ideas are Pass, Osogbo on more than maximum of 4 on the need for residents of applies to our society, the exchanged and the media parties”.

Wednesday. the state to engage in level of riches in our was separated from other The Islamic cleric then productive activities to society is directly tied to Among other activities relevant organizations enjoined politicians to like the Non lined up for the play by rules in the enhance the economy of how wealthy members of G o v e r n m e n t a l celebration of a new f o r t h c o m i n g the state so as not to the society are through the year are jeopardize the future of the amount of effort they put Organizations (NGOs) calendar into work”, the governor and Civil Societies Quranic competition, gubernatorial election coming generations. and accept the results as Jumat prayer service on “We need to realize that stated.

Organizations (CSOs). announced by the we must be hardworking While thanking civil “As per the media, we Friday at the Osogbo expect them to maintain Central Mosque and a Independent National to be self reliant as a servants in the state for balance and objectivity colloquium on Saturday Electoral Commission people, our society cannot their perseverance, the move forward if we don’t governor stressed that the during election coverage. at the OSMC Secretariat (INEC).

Olawuyi equally engage in productive step taken on modulated “There is need for Complex. the media activities. salary was necessary to precision, balance, A thought provoking tasked topic with the theme: especially the social not

which signified a r e m a r k a b l e improvement.

I Won't Abandon Ongoing Projects In Osun - Akinbade

OSMC Against Return Of Public Schools To Former Proprietors

thoroughbred Civil Engineer, I know the cost of completing abandoned projects can be very prohibitive” “As far as I am concerned, it is a retrogressive kind of politics which has been holding down this nation as manifested in u n i m a g i n a b l e infrastructural decay that today dot our national life. This must stop if we must move out of the woods.

“By whatever definition or inclination, government is a continuum. Government projects belong to the people and not the governor or his cabinet.

Interestingly, the people outlive any administration” He promised to industrialised the state using the China model at the Free Trade Zone located at Osogbo which he added, would have multiplier effect on the state economy.

“This will help to open up Osogbo and the state in general because there will be influx of investors which will ultimately lead to infrastructural developments with improved sustainable employment generation” he stressed Urging the people to shun money bag politics, he said, “Money politics will continue to deprive the nation of the best who genuinely wants to serve as against the mercantilists who see politics as cash-and-carry game”.

Aregbesola On Productivity For Economic Growth avoid a total collapse of the system.

Aregbesola who explained that government has never at any point in time denied the fact that the civil servants are being owed, stressed that it was a step taken for the continued existence of the state.

Delivering a goodwill message, renowned labour leader, Comrade Hassan Sunmonu OON, who eulogised Governor Aregbesola for the outstanding successes of his administration, said it is worthy of note that when the economy of the was okay, the administration took care of the welfare of workers in the state.

He also commended workers in the state for showing understanding with the state government during the period of financial distress, noting that the workers have made the state proud through their patience and perseverance.

PAGE

5 Acknowledging A Pivotal Figure •As The Torch Is Passed On History is made under preexisting conditions and not under the conditions that a change agent would have wanted or wished for. It is from this perspective that we salute the positive intervention of Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola in the affairs of the State of Osun.

Operating largely under very difficult conditions, Aregbesola has reenacted the progressive politics and social democracy largely associated with Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the Action Group (AG) and the Unity Party of Nigeria. By implementing a myriad of social intervention programmes, he has in the last seven and a half years in effect, run a government of popular unity.

The government has been clearly pro-people. The free school meals programme to use one example actually went straight into tackling the structural roots of deep seated poverty. In one fell swoop, nutritional needs of the downtrodden were mixed up with the empowerment of farmers into one decisive thrust. The verdict of history will be positive on his intervention in so many areas.

In Osun, if we seek to see the

•Tinubu

•Awolowo

•Aregbesola

positive impact of what he has done, let us look around us.

Two roads now appear before the good people of Osun. To stay on course, or to regress back into a dismal past. The latter route will be ill-advised and will subject a generation to

does not specify clearly that elected officials should vacate their positions when they defect to other parties.

The constitution is silent on the fate of members of the executive who decamp too, as we have been seeing. The constitutional provisions,

as they are presently are one sided. The central role of political parties to democratic governance cannot be overemphasised. Parties are veritable platforms for mobilisation by ensuring that state institution works.

Defection impedes development, as defectors merely negotiate access to power. It brings forth retrogression and multiplies setbacks in a democracy and distrust in the minds of voters.

Vibrant democracy requires active, objectives

and fearless opposition to keep the government in power on its toes and constantly under check for better performance.

The politics of bread and butter, stomach infrastructure and survival of the fittest which is being practiced

This has worked in Lagos and will work in Osun.

Straddling both the public and private sectors, Oyetola has the acumen, in addition to the diligence required to pay attention to minute details which will take Osun to the next level. This framework has worked demonstrably well in Lagos and it should be the preferred route here.

We therefore reiterate that the voters must look deeper, beyond vacuous postulations in making a pivotal choice. In terms of capacity, that choice in our considered opinion is clearly Gboyega Oyetola.

•Oyetola

underachievement. The APC governorship candidate Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola is clearly in the managerialist mood usually preferred to be chosen as the successor to a OSUN philosopher king.

Publisher

Democracy And Defections Anytime I get to read about how our politicians cross-carpet from one party to another, I feel greatly troubled and unhappy for two reasons.

First, it shows the level of indiscipline in the polity. Second, it gives one the impression that our journey into the enthronement of good governance and sustainable development is becoming a mirage.

Perhaps, more than ever before in the annals of the country, the last few weeks have witnessed a litany of defections from one party to another which makes it difficult for one to sit down and adduce any sound justification for such actions.

The law only says that a legislator must be sponsored by a political party, but silent on what becomes of him or her if he or she defects. Law

Two roads now appear before the good people of Osun.

To stay on course, or to regress back into a dismal past. The latter route will be ill-advised and will subject a generation to underachievement.

in the country must be jettisoned. Politics for now portend backwardness and not too good for national development.

A lasting solution is a combination of many efforts, first is through constitutional amendment that could make all the defectors to lose their seats, executive officers inclusive. Not only that the electorate should stop celebrating defectors.

The Independent National Electoral Commission should increase advocacy in this regard, political parties should also imbibe internal democracy and discipline.

Lastly, Nigerians deserve better governance and leadership in 2019 and beyond.

•IFEOLUWA ISREAL , Oyan Odo-Otin North LCDA, State of Osun.

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MAGAZINE

Appreciating Years Of Symbolic Progressive Politics FRIDAY AUGUST 31 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 6, 2018

As a momentous era of transformation comes to an end, SOLOMON ODENIYI looks at the interventions of the symbol of progressive politics, Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola in the state of Osun.

Before the long battle to reclaim his stolen mandate on November 26, 2010, he had mapped out a plan to salvage the state from the state of comatose it was drowning into, this he called the Six-point Integral Action Plan.

Expectedly, many have easily predicted that the battle would consume Rauf Aregbesola, but on all occasions, he came out stronger until the battle was won. Within the first 100 days in office, he had commenced his six-point integral action plan of Banishing Poverty, Banishing Hunger, Banishing Unemployment, Restoring Healthy Living, Promoting Functional Education and Enhancing Communal Peace and Progress which was designed to lift the condition of the people from poverty stricken to being wealthy.

In his close to eight years in the saddle, he instituted progressive reforms that have changed the face of of Osun some of which are; Education Saying the greatest impact of Ogbeni Aregbesola led administration has been felt the most in the education sector is not out of place.

On assumption of office, his first point of call was an education summit which was chaired by Nobel laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka. From that summit emerged the blueprint that guided policies implemented in the education sector.

This helped in reclassification of schools into elementary, middle and high schools. The elementary and middle schools cover the primary and junior secondary schools. The high school is the senior secondary school.

So far, the government has recruited more than 12,000 teachers to boost manpower in the school system.

Teachers are also being motivated. A policy that makes teachers in elementary and middle schools to rise to grade level 16 was put in place, coupled with the appointments of three Tutors General, equivalent of Permanent Secretary, in the three senatorial districts of the state. Also, the governor appointed nine Headmasters General for effective coordination, management and administration of elementary and middle schools in each of the nine federal constituencies of the state.

He also established the Osun Education Quality Assurance and Morality Enforcement Agency to ensure sound education quality and enforce morality in schools.

The eLearning tablets (Opon Imo) for grade 12 final year high school pupils

•Armoured Personnel Carriers procured by Aregbesola’s administration during its launch. in the state is meant to enhance The grand total of newly built schools the teachers. In middle schools, we have learning. Aside that, new schools have with ultra-modern facilities is 1,890.

264 toilets for pupils and 264 for “Forty staff common rooms were teachers. For high schools, 624 toilets been built and lots renovated to meet built for elementary schools, 22 staff were built for pupils while 104 toilets up with latest standard.

Recently, the state Bureau of Statistics common rooms were also built for are for teachers”. released, figures of schools built and middle schools while 78 staff common Also of note is school feeding reconstructed by the Rauf Aregbesola rooms were built for high schools. programme (OMEAL) through which “In addition, 20 multi-purpose halls school children are being fed and have administration in the last seven and half years, saying, “the Osun East Senatorial were built for elementary schools, 22 in turn increased enrolment into public District had 583 elementary schools, 106 multi-purpose halls for middle schools schools”, Gbolagade analysed. middle schools, 54 high and 67 middle/ and 13 multipurpose halls for high Security high schools. The Osun Central schools. Twenty food courts were also The security of lives and properties Senatorial District had 308 elementary built for elementary schools, 22 food is said to be the basic function of any schools, 91 middle schools, 50 high and courts for middle schools and 13 food reasonable administration world over.

29 middle/high schools. In Osun West courts for high schools.

However, this appeared to be the weak “Twenty libraries were built for link for the state before Aregbesola’s Senatorial District, we recorded 482 elementary schools, 45 middle schools, elementary schools, 22 libraries for era. middle schools and 13 libraries for high 23 high and 52 middle/high schools.

Many had lost their hard-earned Signed by the state’s Statistician- schools.Twenty sickbays were built for properties and lives to hoodlums, General, Prof. Wasiu Gbolagade, the elementary schools, 22 sickbays were fraudsters and armed robbers in Osun statement said, “The total numbers of built for middle schools and 26 sickbays as a result of inadequate security. For newly built schools in Osun are 1,373 for high schools. decades, Osun served as haven for “In elementary schools, we have 240 street urchins, hoodlums, kidnappers, elementary schools, 242 middle schools, 127 high and 148 middle/high schools. toilets for pupils while 80 toilets are for armed robbers, pick-pockets, and other vices. Many in the state who fell victim of these unpalatable activities would not have forgotten so soon between the Osun of then and Osun of now. Also of note was the alarming rate of communal clashes then.

Indeed, this portrayed the state in bad light and it scared away investors.

Ogbeni however, mobilised resources for effective security and maintenance of law and order among other things he

The security of lives and properties is said to be the basic function of any reasonable administration world over.

However, this appeared to be the weak link for the state before Aregbesola’s era.

•Continued on page 8

7

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Assessing Years Of The Symbol 8

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•Continued from page 6 did and the rest as they say is now history. The state under his watch has enjoyed an unbroken peace.

The procurement of 25 Armoured Personnel Carriers, 120 patrol vans, helicopter for aerial surveillance are some of the intervention that could not be easily forgotten.

Agriculture Long before the federal government saw the need to diversify the economy of the country through Agriculture, Osun had begun its investment in Agriculture in order to feed its people.

This led to the formation of OREAP, through which his administration has been able to execute many other programmes like rural development, land clearing and access to rural communities, as well as youth training in agriculture.

He made available to farmers more than N2 billion interest-free loans in addition to yearly provision of farm inputs. His administration has also sponsored some sets of youths to Germany for training in modern farming techniques. Also, the government went into an agreement with the Nigerian Railway to ferry agricultural produce of farmers in the state to Lagos for sale. This was in a bid to encourage farmers to export their farm produce to the large market in Lagos.

Social intervention Programs His administration has been given a lot of plaudits in this regard. According to political commentators, Aregbesola has been said to have carried out the most comprehensive and successful social programme in Nigeria. Such programmes include: OYES The Osun Youths Empowerment Scheme (OYES) has engaged 62,000 youths in batches and made majority of them self-dependent. The formation was as a result of the high rate of unemployment among youths. The

MAGAZINE FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

Under Aregbesola, Osun has remained a reference point for several states of the federation and even the federal government as a result of his unusual style of governance laced with developmental projects, such as OYES.

administration saw that the situation was not healthy for the state’s development and since 2011 he launched the scheme, youths have been taken off the streets in the state, having been productively engaged.

Also, other social welfare schemes range from the care of widows, the elderly (Agba Osun), destitute, physically challenged and other vulnerable groups in the state. The government pays monthly stipend to the critically vulnerable elderly citizens; destitute and lunatics, were taken off the streets for rehabilitation and reintegration in a bid to be useful in their various societies.

Honours Under Aregbesola, Osun has remained a reference point for several states of the federation and even the federal government as a result of his unusual style of governance laced with developmental projects such as OYES and O’MEAL. The Federal Government has adopted these two programmes of the state government.

The OYES scheme has come in the form of YOUWIN before it added SUREP to its youth engagement programmes during the President Goodluck Jonathan days having understudied the OYES scheme. However, same was done during the administration of the incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari coming in form of N-power while the OMEAL was studied in its entirety before the federal government started its school feeding programme institutionalised at the federal level for

The National Bureau of Statistics stated that Osun has 3% unemployment rate, the lowest in the whole federation. Osun is ranked second in human capital on Nigeria’s first sub-national competitiveness index released by the National Competitiveness Council of Nigeria.

•One of the newly-constructed Government High Schools located in Osogbo.

all other states of the federation.

The O’MEALS also attracted the attention of Partnership for Child Development (PCD) of Imperial College, London and the World Bank, which extended hands of support to the programme and recommended it to other states and countries, as part of the Millennium Development Goals. In addition, the governor was invited twice by the British Parliament to speak on the programme.

Another delightful thing is that organizations have come to understudy the scheme on how it could serve as a template to solving the high rate of unemployment among youths. The commandante of the OYES said, Colonel Enibukun Oyewole said, “many governors sent representatives to Osun in 2012/13 to come and study, with a view to establishing a scheme similar to OYES. We had representative from Niger, Zamfara, Rivers, Cross Rivers, Kwara, Ondo, and Oyo among others. More than that was the World Bank which saw the relevance of OYES as the solution to high unemployment rate in the country and after a lot of understudy, the UN came up with YESSO. Also the National Bureau of Statistics stated that Osun has 3% unemployment rate, the lowest in the whole federation.

Osun is ranked second in human capital on Nigeria’s first sub-national competitiveness index released by the National Competitiveness Council of Nigeria. The state also has the lowest poverty level and rated the second richest state in Nigeria by the United Nations Multi-Dimensional Poverty Index in 2017. The state also came second in the national assessment on infant and maternal healthcare delivery. The state is the most peaceful states in the federation, a rating by the Nigeria Peace Index in April 2018. To cap it, twice Aregbesola was honored with the governor of the year award, a rare feat among his contemporaries.

Stakeholders’ commendation However, some stakeholders in the state have reacted in the manner of appreciating the governor for taking out the state from the doldrums it was

plunged into. Some of the stakeholders include, the state APC chairman, Secretary, Acting SSG and the chief of Staff, the state Coordinator of O’RAMP among others.

The acting Secretary to the State Government, Senator Mudasiru Hussein described Aregbesola’s achievements as numerous.

He said, “Many doubted how he would carry out all the plans he had outlined but today Ogbeni has delivered. No government since the creation of the state has done half of what Aregbesola has done.

Hussein, recalling the precarious situation of the state before Aregbesola said, his administration has brought relative peace to the state as residents can now sleep with their two eyes closed without fear of being attacked.

He urged the people of the state to help in sustaining the trend by voting for continuity.

Also, the State Coordinator of O’RAMP, Engr. Adelere Oriolowo said, “Anytime I look back in reminiscence to the sorry state of the state in the past, and I look at what Ogbeni has done, as well as the ongoing projects across the state, I see that something historical and unprecedented have happened both in the cities and rural areas”.

He added that the only assurance for all the giant strides seen across the state to continue is for the people of Osun to vote for Gboyega Oyetola.

The CEO Omoluabi Holdings, Babatunde Faleye noted that the commitment to needs and aspirations of the people made the governor to expand the frontiers of investment seen in the state.

He added that unlike before when investors snubbed the state, all these changed due to Aregbesola’s transformational programmes.

He said, “Aregbesola’s years at the helms of affairs has raised the bar of investments in the state beyond what it was known for. Aregbesola facilitated business with ease within the state which has been attracting investors.

“It’s as a result of his innovativeness that the income base of OSICOL became expanded. We now have OSICOL petroleum, OSICOL Properties and Estate Management. Coming to power, he came prepared, that’s why I believed he has done this much.

“Were the constitution allowed his stay beyond the stipulated 8 years, I have no doubt that our people would have loved to have him around for the completion of his great works.

Fortunate for us, we have Gboyega Oyetola, the major brain behind the giant strides seen in this administration contesting. Apart from being erudite, he is not new to governance of the state. A vote for him is a vote for more development in the state”, Faleye said Osun State chairman and Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Gboyega Famodun and Alhaji Rasaq Salinsile who described the governor as an administrator per excellence noted that the state under him has gone a long way, as every aspect of governance has felt his impact.

They added that they are glad to have him as a member of the party, and they were glad they were at the saddle when history was made in the state through him.

Ogbeni’s laudable projects are signs that democratic governance is achievable; the idea of the governor is indeed an overwhelming one to give the state a facelift. His groundbreaking strides have helped in promoting public confidence in democratically elected leader in this part of the world.

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COMMUNITY FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

Isokan South LCDA Donates Materials To NYSC OSUNDEFENDER www.osundefender.org

Ecstasy pervaded the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp, Ede, State of Osun recently when the management team of Isokan South Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Ikoyi-Osun led by Prince Wasiu Oyetunji Oyelami donated chairs, bucket and other accessories for the

use of Corps members serving in the state.

While receiving the gifts, the State Coordinator of NYSC, Mr. Emmanuel Attah and

the chairman Isokan South LCDA, Prince Oyelami commended the founding fathers of the NYSC for their foresight, saying the scheme has ensured unity and expanded knowledge of young men and women from different ethnic and religious background.

Oyelami reiterated that due to the roles the corps members play, any

financial commitments to their welfare would not be considered a waste, but sensible and profitable investment which would benefit the future of the young ones and the country at large.

He reiterated further that the donation was his own administration’s assistance and determination to partner with the NYSC.

By Sikiru Obarayese People of Ayedun community, Ogo-Oluwa, Osogbo were thrown into a joyous mood as the Later-Day Saint (LDS) Charities provided them a motorised borehole with overhead tank through the high Chief Gbadebo Adeyemo (JP).

Handing over the Charities, Stephen Opolu borehole to the disclosed that the has community, the site organisation manager of LDS provided 60 boreholes to needy communities across Osun since its establishment in 2013.

He quoted the mission flooding in Alekuwodo of the organisation which and its environs in the includes to provide state. communities with clean According to him, water source, improved “most of these areas are sanitation facilities, and residential areas while proper hygiene training. any flood occurrence will Stephen handed over lead to lost of lives and the borehole to Ayedun properties in the community and praised community”. the Baale of Ogo Oluwa, Another resident of the area Elder Hassan High Chief Gbadebo Ahmed also appealed to Adeyemo who donated Government to come to N200,000 as counterpart their aid in the fund to the account community so as not to opened for the project.

While delivering his fall victims of flood again.

speech, Chief Gbadebo appreciated the LDS Charities for the borehole which he described as a marvelous gift to his community.

He assured the donor of the project of proper maintenance, adding that he has donated another N250,000 for the maintenance of the borehole.

His Royal Highness, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun Larooye II, represented by High Chief Agboola Rasheed, Baale Oke-Ijetu, Osogbo spoke about the importance of water to the society.

He applauded LDS Charities for their humanitarian work and for the development it added to Osogbo.

He urged residents of the community to take proper care of the borehole to serve its purpose.

the Zonal Inspector of NYSC Mr. Alo Emmanuel thanked the council chairman and his entourage for their kindness and assistance to the Corps members, promising to use the items donated judiciously to enhance the living conditions of the corps members posted to the state.

In his own response,

Charity Organisation Donates Borehole To Community

•Members of Ayedun Community, Ogo-Oluwa during the commissioning of motorised borehole donated by Later-Day Saint Charities recently.

Alekuwodo Community Cries For Channelisation

By Israel Afolabi Residents of Blessed Oyeyemi Lane in Alekuwodo Community of Osogbo have solicited the State Government’s intervention to prevent the community against imminent flooding.

A community Leader which could save the from in the area, Pa. Moses community Adebile made this appeal flooding.

He explained that the on Wednesday while speaking with Osun river used to overflow its Defender correspondent boundary at times if it rained. He brought it into in Osogbo.

He urged Government memories the experience to extend channelisation of 2010 flooding in of Ogbaagba river along Osogbo particularly in Alekuwodo to Osun river Alekuwodo.

Pa Adebile however solicited similar interventions to prevent loss of lives and properties to flooding.

He further stated that the channelisation would allow free flow of water and prevent disaster in Folorunso Abeke Lane, Blessed Oyeyemi Lane, Oyegbade street, Josiah Oke street, Teledalase street respectively.

He advised that this will proffer solution to future occurrences of

Be Creative, Lawmaker Tasks Youths

By Israel Afolabi

A lawmaker representing Ayedaade State Constituency in the State of Osun House of Assembly, Hon Akin Taiwo has challenged Youths to engage in sporting activities just as he urged them to be creative by thinking outside the box in their endeavours.

Hon. Taiwo, a member, Day themed: ‘Safe Place’ House of Assembly means having a safe and Committee on Sports and conducive environment Youth Development said for Youths to excel, saying this in his office at the the State Government had House of Assembly created opportunities for complex in Osogbo during youth through various intervention programmes. a chat.

According to him, Osun The parliamentarian noted that for Youth to government believes so much in youth, who thrive, they must be creative, noting that the according to him, are the 2018 International Youth future of Nigeria, adding ALIMAT RAJI ADELEKE

MRS. JOSEPH OLUWATOBI OMOTOLA

BALOGUN MUHAMMED OLA

ADEKOMI DAMILARE ADEDAYO

That I was formerly known and addressed as ALIMAT JADESOLA ABOBADE, but now wish to be known and addressed as ALIMAT RAJI ADELEKE. All former documents remain valid.

Stanbic Bank and General public should take note.

That I was formerly known and addressed as BALOGUN MUHAMMED AYINLA, but now wish to be known and addressed as BALOGUN MUHAMMED OLA. And my correct Date of Birth is 4th Day of February, 1965 not 4th Day of February, 1960. All former documents remain valid.

FCMB Bank and General public should take note.

that their numerical strength put at about 60% of the country’s population means that they are a group of people that cannot be toyed with at all.

“The Government has the love and interest of youth at heart and that is why the Youth parliament initiative is set up to build leadership among them” he added.

The lawmaker advised youth population to engage in sports which will guide them in the right direction and exposed them to Western World.

AMALIRI MALACHI CHIKWADO

That I was formerly known and addressed as MISS A D E S U N K O L A OLUWATOBI OMOTOLA, but now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. JOSEPH OLUWATOBI OMOTOLA. All former documents remain valid. F.C.M.B Bank and General public should take note.

That I was formerly known and addressed as MISS ADARAMOYE ESTHER ADENIKE , but now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. ADEYEMI ESTHER ADENIKE. All former documents remain valid.

FCMB Bank and General public should take note.

That I was formerly known and addressed as ADEKOMI DAMILARE A D E D A Y O ALEXANDER, but now wish to be known and addressed as ADEKOMI DAMILARE ADEDAYO. All former documents remain valid. G.T. Bank and General public should take note.

That I was formerly known and addressed as AMALARI MALACHI, but now wish to be known and addressed as AMALIRI MALACHI CHIKWADO. And my correct Date of Birth is 4th Day of July, 1998. All former documents remain valid. UBA Bank and General public should take note.

AMALIRI MALACHI CHIKWADO

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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

FG Injects N300m Into Osun Micro Economy 11

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NEWS

•Osinbajo Launches ‘Trader Moni’

six months payment duration and N250 interest, adding that after the repayment, the beneficiary will be given N15,000 loan with N375 interest for six month duration.

Upon payment of the N15, 000, the beneficiary will be given N20, 000

with N1000 interest and from there to N60,000, she said.

Speaking, the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Olawale Akanbi expressed his delight on the launching of the programme in his town, urging the beneficiaries to make good use of the

money.

Oba Akanbi said the ‘trader moni’ would go a long way in wealth creation and reduction of poverty in the state, commending the President Buhari led administration for considering and empowering the masses.

By Ismaeel Uthman more than 10,000 petty The economy of Osun has received a boost, as the traders have been Federal Government injected a sum of N300million registered so far in Osun into the state’s micro economy with an for the empowerment.

According to Adeniji, empowerment programme for 30, 000 petty traders each of the 30, 000 in the state.

Vice President of informed the general beneficiaries is being Nigeria, Prof Yemi public that the ‘Trader given N10, 000 loan with Osinbajo launched the Moni’ empowerment ‘Trader Moni’ programme has nothing e m p o w e r m e n t to do with politics, saying programme, aimed at everybody, irrespective giving 30, 000 petty political affiliation is traders a sum of N10, 000 entitled to the loan.

On the September each as soft loan in Iwo 22nd governorship on Monday.

Launching the election in the state, urged programme in Iwo, Aregbesola Osinbajo reinstated the members of the APC who commitment of President had defected to come Muhammad Buhari’s back to the party, saying administration to ‘a big position has been alleviating poverty and reserved for them if they empowering the less return on time.’

The governor declared privileged in the that spot patching and country.

Osinbajo stated that other maintenance would petty traders have begin on all deplorable highest number in the internal roads in Iwo in economic structure of the some days to come.

In her address, the •Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (middle); Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (2nd right); his country, maintaining that the current Executive Director, Bank deputy, Mrs Titi Laoye-Tomori (2nd left); Minister for Heath, Professor Isaac Adewole (right); Secretary, Osun APC, of Industry, Mrs Toyin Alhaji Rasaq Salinsile (now Chief of Staff) (left), during the launching of Empowerment Programme for 30,000 administration will continue to support the Adeniji disclosed that Petty Traders in Osun at the Elementary School, Opp. Iwo Local Govt. Secretariat, Iwo on Monday. masses to enhance their living standard and ensure that life is abundant for them. develop if both countries the government of South- sectors such as tourism,

By Ismaeel Uthman According to Osinbajo, do not collaborate to is taking steps and a g r i c u l t u r e , the government of the All The need for a strong and positive relationship organize the lake regions Africa doing everything possible Infrastructure, energy, Progressives Congress at between Nigeria and South-Africa has been of Africa for to stop it for the growth of manufacturing as areas the federal level is emphasised if the continent of Africa is to get out of development, we share a human relationship they would like to partner determined to support all the shackles of poverty and underdevelopment. deep bond and among Africans.

Osun and Nigeria as large hardworking masses and from the responsibility to develop Governor of Osun, black The South-African in for growth and petty traders, saying that Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola underdeveloped nature Africa together. envoy then highlighted development. they also deserve to build and the Consul General of which it has found itself.

“If we don’t come house, buy cars and do the Republic of South While expressing the together to develop this good things in life.

Africa to Nigeria, Mr. willingness of Osun and great continent of ours Speaking at the event, Darkey Africa made the the entire country to give then we are sentencing Governor Rauf submission when the later South-Africa all the Africa and the blacks all Aregbesola of Osun, said paid a courtesy visit on needed cooperation on over the world to many the APC governments at the former at the economic relationship, the years of suffering and both Federal and state government house in governor said both backwardness.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed hearing level are concerned about Osogbo on Tuesday. countries need to put While speaking on the on the suit against the conduct of the All the welfare of the less energy on persecution of Nigerians Progressives Congress (APC) primary election filed Aregbesola stressed more privileged in the country, that Africa will not be strengthening the human in South-Africa, by an aggrieved aspirant, Mr. Kunle Rasheed noting that no developed if Nigeria and relationship because it is Aregbesola stressed that Adegoke, for hearing on Thursday, September 13. government in Nigeria South-Africa do not find a the springboard to others. the trend should not be The suit, Kunle Conduct of Political Party had shown passion to means to collaborate and According to him, “The encouraged any further as Adegoke vs. Primaries of the alleviate poverty like that organise the development relationship between blacks all over the world Rasheed APC & INEC with Independent National of the APC. of the lake regions of the Nigeria and South-Africa is supposed to be seen as Number FHC/ABJ/CS/ Electoral Commission, Aregbesola stated that continent for should not be based on one.

804/2018 was filed before the Osun State the socio-security development which is key economic ties alone, the “Even if they have the Court in Abuja on governorship primary programme embarked to the growth of Africa. truth is that we share criminal tendencies, the July 27 against the APC election of the 1st upon by his relationship. normal thing is for them and the Independent Defendant purportedly The governor who deeper administration are borne explained that what Nigeria and Nigerians see to be punished through National Electoral held on the 20th day of of the need to alleviate Africa needs to grow is South-Africa beyond the the legal means instead Commission (INEC), July, 2018 in Osun State poverty in the state and embedded in the lake trade and economic ties. It being made to pass challenging the legality of is not unconstitutional, make life meaningful to regions of Africa, stated can come but it should not through jungle justice the exercise held on July unlawful, null and void. the masses. that both countries owe it be the priority. which as far as am 20.

“Whether this The Governor an historic duty to free the “Africa will not concerned is a slap on our When the case came up honourable Court ought continent”, the governor on Tuesday September 4, to nullify the Osun State stressed. the court granted the governorship primary Speaking earlier, Mr. applicant’s application to election of the 1st In preparation for the September 22 gubernatorial government levels Darkey Africa explained hear the matter during Defendant held on the while the vacation and adjourned 20th day of July, 2018 in election in the state of Osun, people of Ifon Oroluland participated in the that have drummed support for the All Progressives sensitisation rally which government of South- same September 13, for Osun State in flagrant of the violation Africa is willing to boost hearing of the Congress (APC) candidate, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola. lasted for hours.

Constitution of the They also described the sensitize supporters, While speaking, the economic ties with Osun substantive matter.

The plaintiff, in an Federal Republic of and Nigeria as a whole, governor, Ogbeni sympatizers and executive chairman of Aregbesola as an epitome electorate to embrace Orolu local government, the country is also taking Originating Summon, Nigeria, 1999 (as altered), of democracy and good continuity and cast their Hon Adekunle Benson the development of presented 4 major the Electoral Act, 2010 (as amended) and the governance judging from votes for the APC emphasized that the APC human relationships prayers thus: “Whether, having relevant provisions of the the unprecedented candidate, for the will win the election seriously.

Mr Darkey who said regard to the relevant Constitution of All d e v e l o p m e n t a l u n p r e c e d e n t e d convincingly as Orolu will of the Progressives Congress, projects which the state developmental projects to be thoroughly delivered to Nigeria and South-Africa provisions remains key to the Constitution of the 2014 (as amended) and has recorded since he continue. the All Progressives came to power in 2010.

The party members and Congress (APC) in the development of the Federal Republic of the Regulation for the continent Nigeria, 1999 (as altered), Conduct of Political Party Also, it was a carnival- supporters marched next gubernatorial African of the like event on Saturday through all the major election, adding that all e x p r e s s e d the Electoral Act, 2010 (as Primaries when a sea of heads, roads in Ifon, Orolu local the activities of the disappointment that the amended) and the Independent National relevant provisions of the Electoral Commission broom wielding members government council and opposition parties in Osun xenophobic attacks in being and supporters of the APC all political office holders is like rubbing insult upon South-Africa is being Constitution of the 1st same Defendant and the u n c o n s t i t u t i o n a l , trooped out en masse, from the area both at the injuries. generalised.

Regulation for the unlawful, null and void. and local singing and dancing to state He stated further that

Envoy, Aregbesola Canvass SA/Nigeria Sound Relationship For Africa Growth

Osun APC Primary: Court Fixes Hearing For September 13

Ifon Orolu Drums Support For Oyetola

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A Cocktail Of Recent Happenings FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

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50th Birthday Ceremony Of Mr Isaa Idowu Moruf 70th Birthday Ceremony Of Reverend Samuel Adebisi At Life Regeneration Group Mobilises Support For Oyetola In Osogbo Recently. Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI Gospel Assembly, Osogbo Recently.

Photo: Gbenga Adeniyi.

It was a great day for Reverend Samuel Adebisi and his family as he celebrated his 70th birthday in Osogbo recently.

Friends, associates and family members from various states converged in Osogbo to celebrate with him.

The celebrants, Rev. Adebisi used the opportunity to give thanks to God Almighty for His love on him and his family, just as he appreciated guests for celebrating with him

The Deputy Governor of the State of Osun who was the Mother of the day, Mrs Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori represented by the wife of the Interim Chairman, Board of OSBC, Mrs Adefunmilola Kola-Akanji described the celebrant as an easy going man and pray to God that his Ministry will continue to grow.

Mrs Laoye-Tomori, Father of the day Bishop Adebayo, Clergy men from different Churches and other well wishers were present at the occasion .

•The Celebrant, Mr Moruf with his friends and relatives cutting the birthday cake. the country gathered at Ola Oni that of his family, just as he Center, Osogbo, venue of the showed appreciation to event Osogbo to celebrate with Oranmiyan group members and ASA cultural troop for him.

The celebrant, one of the their support.

The celebrant used the leaders of Asa Cultural Group, used the opportunity to thank opportunity to urged the God for spearing his life and people to keep their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVC) and go out on September 22 to vote for the continuity of the good work of Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

Daughter of the celebrant also showed her appreciation to guests for being part of her father’s birthday, just as he prayed for long life and good health for her father.

A friend of the celebrant, Mr Jide Sodiq described the celebrant as an easy going man, noting that they had been together as friends for •The Celebrant and his wife, Reverend and Pastor (Mrs) Adebisi cutting the birthday •A cross section of guests during the programme. about forty years and he has cake. demonstrated a trait of a responsible man.

“He is a good father to his family, good politician and loyal to Governor Aregbesola and APC”.

Also, Chairman, Osogbo West Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Honourable Temilade Olokungboye and her husband, leaders and members of APC, Oranmiyan group, Asa cultural troop and top dignitaries gathered at the programme to celebrate with •Celebrant with his Children.

Mr Isaa Moruf.

One of the leaders of Oranmiyan group under the All Progressives Congress in Osun, Mr Isaa Moruf has celebrated his 50th birthday in Osogbo recently in a grand style.

Friends and family all over

•Hon Aishat and members of Oyetola Sunshine Movement during their meeting.

By Olushola Aderinto

A group of Ondo State Indigenes residents in the State of Osun, Ondo Sunshine Movement assembles in Modakeke recently to declare support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola.

The group, now working for the emergence of the APC candidate under the name, Oyetola Sunshine group, said their decision to work for him was borne out of their confidence in his ability to build on the ongoing development under Governor Rauf Aregbesola in the state.

The convener of the group, Hon Aisha Olasehinde, a former member of the Ondo State House of Assembly said the group is

determined to have in place a governor who will take their state of residence to a greater height.

According to her, the group would make a great impact, just as it did in 2014 when it canvassed support for the second term bid of Governor Aregbesola.

She said: “We have been on ground since 2014, we have been involved in sensitizing our people on the need to be part of the continuous voters registration and collection of their PVCs and we have seen the effect.

“For us to have a government that will build on the current monumental projects going on in the state under the present administration, we are determined to mobilise for the party.

“Ogbeni Aregbesola’s government is a unique government typical of a virtuous human being”, she stressed.

Burial Ceremony For Late Deaconess Oluwatade At The Apostolic Church, Modakeke, State Of Osun Recently.

Photo: Gbenga Adeniyi •Hon Aisha addressing the group members.

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

•A cross section of guests

•One of the Sons of the deceased, Prophet Taiwo Oluwatade performing the dust to dust for his Late Mother at the burial ground.

•A cross section of congregation during the service.

Spaces are available for your anniversaries such as weddings, house-warming and chieftaincy title ceremonies among others 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.

Conflict-sensitive Reporting On Osun 2018 Election FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

By Murtala Agboola To ensure that the forthcoming governorship election in the state of Osun on September 22 is conflict-free, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) organised a 3-day workshop on the role of media practitioners in ensuring a conflict free election.

The UNDP in collaboration with the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs brought together about 120 journalists and Media Groups at the Event Hall, Kakanfo Inn, Ibadan, between August 6th and 10th.

Participants were drawn mainly from journalists in Osun and some neighbouring states like Ondo, Oyo and Ogun.

The main objective of the training was to effectively equip journalists and media professionals with requisite cognitive skills in covering and reporting elections in a conflict sensitive manner especially in a multicultural society like Nigeria.

Dr. Austin Onuoha, an Owerri-born resource person was at home with the overview of the media and elections. He traced the genesis of the roles played by the media during elections.

Onuoha, who worked with the Guardian Newspaper in Lagos, shared his cognate experience with participants. He also discussed the lessons from media coverage of elections in Nigeria in the 4th Republic (1999-2015) including the just concluded Ekiti gubernatorial elections.

The existing conflicts in Osun State which politicians could exploit were also examined in all ramifications. Also, the merchants of violence were critically looked into with their godfathers and the people providing protection for them.

The formal and informal channels for the prevention of violence during and after elections were also highlighted.

Political thugs and their sponsors and the moles within security agencies that give cover for them were seriously condemned. Some influential citizens and traditional rulers had condescended to aid or abet electoral malfeasance.

Media reportage, it was emphasized should be objective while downplaying violence. It was submitted that the role of the media to either exacerbate violence or reduce its effect cannot be over emphasized.

Trainees shared their various experiences in the coverage of elections in the past and the role expected of the media.

In her own presentation, Mrs. Olutoyin Falade, the only female resource person made distinction between conflict and conflict sensitive reportage. She highlighted the meaning, causes and types of conflicts.

She emphasized the role of good journalism to help resolve conflict rather than exacerbate it.

At the resumption of activities on the second day, Dr. Emmanuel Mamman did an assessment of media and elections while Dr. Gbemisola Animasahun explained the principles of conflict sensitive reporting.

Media practitioners were advised to be mindful of the choice of words and expression not to inflame passion.

Conflict-sensitive reporting was defined as “a deliberate practice to prevent and de-escalate conflict while consciously maximising the prospects of peace through one’s report”.

The Do No Harm framework for conflict sensitive reporting during election stresses the fact of “how you say it and not what you say”. The way, report is put across can either cause conflict or not.

There were seven steps to conflict sensitive reporting which dealt with

FEATURE

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•Participants at the workshop in a group photograph.

•Administrative Manager, Osun Defender Newspaper and some other participants at the workshop. at home with Rethinking Communication/Training conflict news, where reporters were enlightened on how to frame conflict sensitive issues in a way that it would not degenerate to conflict. As usual, Onuoha was at his best with challenges facing the media in covering Osun election. violence and corruption still persist. analysis and understanding issues such Issues like Osun West Agenda, Lagos Mamman was in charge of impacts that crisis or conflict would not erupt after reading, listening or viewing the of New/Social Media including and Local Politicians, imposition of candidates and modulated salary for blogging on elections in Nigeria.

Again reports.

Essentially, Do No Harm principle on the whole trainees were divided into civil servants were brought to the fore as issues to dominate electioneering CSR is meant to be socially responsible. three groups where the roles of bloggers The resource persons stressed the fact otherwise called citizen journalists were campaigns in the elections.

On the whole, the workshop was a that media ownership should be seen critically examined.

It was generally agreed that while veritable opportunity for reporters and as a public trust which must be truthful, other media groups to equip themselves they can help to push forward news accurate, fair and objective so as to stay swiftly, they sometimes gives out false with the task of conflict sensitive relevant at all times. news because they are not guided by reportage on the Osun election taking It was generally agreed that the the traditional rules and regulation of place in September. The training would electoral process in Nigeria is too journalism. no doubt become invaluable for cumbersome and unwieldy with the They are not trained in the art of participant during the election. registration of political parties and voter journalism, hence, it was generally The workshop was attended by the registration. agreed that reporters should not make Country Director of UNDP, Mr. In spite of all these even with the bloggers their source until they are able Matthew Alamu who welcomed all deployment of technology such as Data to verify and authenticate their reports. participants to have a well fulfilled Capture Machine, there are still On the third Day, the media training. Osun State Commissioner for hiccups. The process of using our personnel were urged to get Budget and Economic Planning, Dr. Permanent Voter Card is still documentation on the electoral process Yinusa Olalekan who traced how he problematic given the experience on such as the Electoral Act. They were was able to get the state government to Election Day. Corruption persists while also tasked to verify all information and key into the programme when he got a we close down business activities all in report facts only in a timely manner. All hint of it in Abuja on an official visit. candidates should also be given the name of voting.

He disclosed that the state A new expression has now entered platforms to project their policies and government is committed to training the political lexicon of Nigeria “see and programmes. Media practitioners were and retraining of media practitioners in buy” which means voters show how encouraged to give voice to all political the state with a view to ensuring they they voted to be remunerated after parties.

On the last day, Dr. Animasahun was voting. Security challenges, thuggery,

the workshop was a veritable opportunity for reporters and other media groups to equip themselves with the task of conflict sensitive reportage on the Osun election

FEDPOFFA Screens Prospective Students FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

By Oluwapelumi Fasoyin Prospective students for various academic programmes into the Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State troop into the school main campus on Monday, as the screening exercise for the students who obtained Higher National Diploma began. exercise.

The exercise was Venues stipulated for scheduled to hold each faculty are: between September 3 Applied Science and and 7, 2018.

Technology, 1000 Screening interview Lecture Theatre; commenced by 9.00am Business and each day at the school Management Studies, main campus and Lib. & Information different venues were D e p a r t m e n t , assigned for each faculty Communication and and departments Information Technology affected by the screening In their Departments;

Engineering Technology ND LR By NDIC Building and Environmental Studies at URP Building.

Amongst students that came for screening Bolatito Adeoye who applied to study Business Administration said she chose the institution because a colleague who

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graduated from the school came out with a good grade.

Also, Tunde Osho said that he would like to study in the institution because he had his national diploma there and he feels that there is no better place like the institution.

One of the supervisor

at the screening exercise urged the students that applied for the HND to come and finish up with

screening before the closing date to avoid the next year routine of coming back.

The National body of the National Association of Nigerian Students’ Joint Campus Committee has threatened to surcease the state capital if the State government failed to address the demands of lecturers of the state-owned tertiary institutions that has reportedly been on strike since July.

NANS, which made in addressing the its position known in a Shutdown of all Osun tertiary release made available owned to journalists, berated institutions for the past the continued closure of Six weeks now.

“To avoid name schools in the state.

The body also asked calling and untrue speculations amidst the the state government to populace immediately look into student the issues that led to the especially at a critical closure of the time like this, we wish to state clearly that an institutions.

According to the ultimatum had been release, “We have been given to the State going silently and gently government of Osun to proffer solution to the

cause of strike and satanic shutdown of our campuses of which we shall take to streets and shutdown all activities in

the state capital territory immediately our ultimatum lapses and nothing is done to address the issue.”

NANS Threatens Mass Protest Over Schools Closure In Osun

Gboyega: Man Of Destiny The visitors were waiting in the lobby, with few others. They had come from Apomu, in Isokan Local Government in the State. They were soon ushered into his presence. Mother and son had come all the way to seek government assistance for a terminal ailment which mother has been nursing for quite some time. And they had heard of this benevolent government in which this “Sif of Staff” is a prominent figure. They had heard from sources that if only they could “see Alhaji”, their problem will disappear.

In less than thirty minutes of their arrival in Abere Governor’s Office, which also houses the office of the Chief of Staff to the Governor, mother and son were ushered into his presence. He apologized, and this was the first point of surprise to both. Mother looked back above her shoulders to be sure if this Man of Power was actually apologizing to her and her son for waiting for “just” thirty-something minutes before seeing him. As if that was not enough, he even told them his reason for keeping that late…he was observing his Zur, (early afternoon) prayers. They narrated their reason for coming, and after few minutes of telephone chat to one Mrs Cecilia Olajide who works closely with the Governor, mother and son heaved sighs of relieve after having their problems solved: good and free medical reference as well as enough cash to take care of immediate needs. This is just one of the numerous ways the government of Osun, unannounced, through Alhaji Gboyega Isiaka Oyetola, has been touching lives of the ordinary people in the State and reportedly even beyond.

Gboyega Isiaka Oyetola, born on September 29, 1954 in Iragbiji, State of Osun, is a certified insurance broker, entrepreneur and politician. He served in Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s eight-yearadministration as Chief of Staff. Unknown to many political observers outside Osun state, Oyetola has been achieving political feats without attracting attention to himself since 1997.

Despite the enormous influence he wields, he is reticent, humble and

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unassuming. Although he is perceived as the major pillar behind the Rauf Aregbesola administration, he has never displayed the peculiar trait of a political gladiator. He is loyal, non-combative and goal-oriented.

Unlike some chiefs of staff in other states who have earned public condemnation, in time of crises, Oyetola has handled government/union relations successfully, thereby earning the applause of political leaders and civil servants in the State of Osun.

Oyetola is said to be among prominent Nigerians who founded Alliance for Democracy, AD, in 1998. The politician had remained a notable figure in the political party in Osun so much that when the Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, birthed, he was one of the party’s notable chieftains.

Adegboyega Oyetola is a pronounced Technocrat as well as a progressive politician. His ideals of transformative leadership as a tool of service for the greater good drew him into politics. His great courage remains a source of admiration and his political sagacity is

Truth Of The Matter with

AYEKOOTO

Every nation or human community has a way of ayoakinola444@gmail.com producing men and women whose have benefitted from his scholarship courage and selfless service grants.

He is near perfectionist in words, inspire their people in their conduct, appearance and actions. Indeed, darkest hours or trying a man of very few words but moments. Such are the people astonishingly cerebral, technically and equipped with needed who etch their ideas and their administratively information and applied knowledge on entire being on the hearts of the skills and mastery of creative and their people by speaking words inventive governance of this age and time.

He has served and is still serving actively of courage and acting out in to the philosophy and ideals of democratic total conviction those things tenets and principles towards ensuring that the greatest good in terms of they believe in. Gboyega and dividends of democracy Oyetola has been such a man. deliverables is centred around the people to the service

well acknowledged across all political divides. As once analysed, “he is one of the few repositories of knowledge and a fountain of wisdom from which many emerging and existing politicians drink to their own benefits or whom they can only ignore to their eternal damnation.”

Gboyega believes that grassroots politics is the surest way of making the elected leaders listen to the needs, aspirations and problems of their people and take practical steps to meeting these needs. He remains a champion of grassroots politics with a continuous track record till date. His influence in local levels has become a major and popular yardstick for measuring the success of his contemporaries.

Quiet generosity is the capstone to Gboyega Oyetola remarkable life.

Philanthropy remains his “second act,” a role through which he has helped thousands of people who never had the pleasure of knowing him except through his personal giving. Many of his gestures are geared towards empowering young people for sustainable livelihood. He is also known for giving scholarships to students to acquire tertiary education. In the last 25 years, not less than 400 students

of the human race.

He is an enigma whose intellectual wizardry is equally legendary.

Gboyega holds a Bachelors degree (B.Sc.) in Insurance from the prestigious University of Lagos, (1975-1978), He obtained a Masters degree in Business Administration from the same University of Lagos in 1990. He had his mandatory one year National Youth Service between 1978 and 1979, at Potiskum, in the present day Yobe State, where he lectured at the Staff Training Centre. Ever since then, his passion for public service and the welfare of the general public remain endless.

Unlike those whose pedigree are either in dancing away their destinies, those who take to public eating of corn, or that rebel that suddenly took to unearned religious title as gang-song slogan to hoodwink unsuspecting masses, every nation or human community has a way of producing men and women whose courage and selfless service inspire their people in their darkest hours or trying moments. Such are the people who etch their ideas and their entire being on the hearts of their people by speaking words of courage and acting out in total conviction those things they believe in.

Gboyega Oyetola has been such a man.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

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SOLA JACOB writes on the various opportunities created by the celebration of Osun Osogbo festival.

CULTURE

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Osun Osogbo: Beyond Religious Festivity Just as the River Nile is to Egypt in medieval time, so is Osun river to the people of Osogbo, as history has it that Timehin, a great hunter, during his expedition in search of water settled down by the side of Osun river. In the course of preparing ground for his settlement, one of the dye pots of the Osun goddess was broken and she exclaimed and said in reaction, “Iwo oso igbo yi, gbogbo Ikoko aro mi leti fee fo tan”, meaning, you this forest wizard, you had destroyed almost all the pots of my dyes”.

This made Timehin and his group of hunters to be cautious that they needed to tread softly as human activities can disrupt nature with recognition that Osun is more than water, but carries life in goddess of the river.

The realisation brought not only fertility but increase, growth and development as more people joined Timehin at the Osun side where the first palace of Atewogbeja which later shortened to Ataoja, the appellation of the king of Osogbo was located.

Over the years, the potential and efficacy of Osun goddess to heal various sicknesses and diseases, give fertility to those who seek to have children had made it a goddess that is endeared to many, especially women and Osun devotees not only in Nigeria but across the globe.

The efforts of Susan Wenger later known as Adunni Oloosa, an anthropologist who came to Nigeria with her husband, a German historian, Ulli Bier to preserve the neutrality of Osun, her acceptance to be a staunch devotee of the goddess at the detriment of her marriage was a price paid to make Osun festival acceptable not only in Nigeria but all over the world.

Also, the adoption of Osun as World Heritage Site by United Nation Education Social and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has increased the patronage of the site not only by faithful but researchers, industrialists, academics, diplomats and cultural enthusiasts among others.

The 2018 edition of the Osun Osogbo Festival commenced with Ifa celebration as usual, after which the popular “Atupa Olojumerindinlogun” and Iwopopo were observed.

OSUN DEFENDER in a chat with some attendees of the festival revealed that spiritual assistance had been the core reason for participating in the festival.

A Chinese tourist, Mr Wang Li who spoke with the medium asserted that he had been participating in the festival for the last five years and he could attest to the healing power of Osun river, as he had come with infertility problem which

had defied orthodox medicine but today, he had been healed of his ailment.

Marilyn Jones, a Jamaican said, last year she was invited by a friend to Osun festival, with a certain ailment that defies orthodox medical care, but a visit to the groove, the serenity of the atmosphere, coupled with the spiritual assistance she sought from the goddess, she is more sound and healthy.

Aminat Kazimu from Sobi in Ilorin said that as a devotee, she had brought many women with infertility issues to the groove and today they are mothers of •Osun devotees perfoming traditional rites during the Osun Osogbo festival. their own babies.

She continued that as a birth attendant associates through his patronage of the Alasepo soup from Ede Federal constituency. and herbal practitioner, the issue of Osun festival.

“It is also a way of spending summer During the competition, the festival and celebration transcends religious issues, saying, “God created all vacation with my immediate family participants and other well wishers things and gives all things to man to members and introducing them into watched with keen enthusiasm, the dexterity, cooperation, neatness and benefit from; water, leaves, trees, roots, African values and beliefs”.

A researcher, Bolutife Onadeko, a team spirit among the competitors. animals, birds and all other things are student of University of Ibadan in a chat The General Manager of the group created for man to live”.

Also, Farotimi Isaac, a member of a with the medium said he attended the said, the essence of the competition is to white garment church said that his festival to seek information from educate the people and promote healthy religion is not against his patronage of participants on his project, saying, the living as part of the Corporate Social festival was a platform and avenue for Responsibility of the company to give the annual Osun festival. back to the society by organising the He continued that culture is the total his research work.

Some industrialists also participated in competition, and savour in the joy of the package of any human being and as a complete and total Yoruba man, he and the festival, ranging from breweries, festival.

“African culture is dynamic and we his immediate family members always plastic manufacturers, food technologists are richly blessed as a continent. I have attend the annual event, saying he had and other service providers.

The West African Food Seasoning Ltd not had any opportunity to participate made more friends and business Company premised its participation in in festival as this and I am happy that we the festival on promotion of healthy have such a rich festival here in Osogbo, living and wellness of individuals, as the state capital”, he said. well as promotion of its products, The cooking competition have Idiat Ajinomoto, Ma Dish and other brands to Yusuf, Iyaloja of Ifelodun as the winner, the market women in the state of Osun. while Alhaja Falilat Lawal of Ife Federal According to the Corporate constituency emerged as the runner up, Communication Officer of the Company, just as Ramat Adeyemo of Ibokun, in Mrs Francisca Ikediashi, the WAPCO in Ilesha federal constituency emerged as Nigeria is poised to give healthy, foods the second runner up. and create wealth for Nigeria, especially The winner took the prize of a bed women who are major users of the fridge, while the runner up took a company’s products. microwave oven, just as the second She added that this year’s Osun runner up went away with sets of pots. celebration was the first participation of Other contestants went away with the company in the festival and through coolers and other consolation prizes, the office of Iyaloja-General of the state such as towels and Ajinomoto seasoning.

Alhaja Awawu Asindemade, it has Mrs Idiat Yusuf, Iyaloja of Ilobu organised cooking competition among lauded the organisers of the cooking Iyalojas in the state to promote eating of competition and advised that the indigenous African meals which is nutritious and healthy for human products of the company should be promoted more in various markets consumption.

It is aimed at promoting across the state.

In her opening speech, the Iyalojathe usage of Ajinomoto Seasoning considering its General of the State of Osun commended the effort of WAPCO food seasoning health values, and disabuse the wrong insinuation company for the good gesture to about the product that, it is participate in Osun Osogbo festival and harmful for human promote African foods and values.

She pledged that the market women consumption. The cooking competition was held in the state would promote the products among contestants in the of the company, just as the company has nine federal constituencies deemed it fit to promote African women and the festival. of the state.

However, the celebration of Osun Some of the local cuisine that were cooked at the Osogbo festival had transcend the food competition included, spirituality of it, as it had in turn served Akara Okuta and Eko from as research centre, advocacy for usage of Boripe Local Government, products and services, tourism purpose, Iyan Ogede and Efo marketing of products, social platform Wororo from Ife federal for making friend and contacts. constituency, Efo Iyanrin Moreso, artists and cultural soup and Asaro, from enthusiasts are making use of the Osogbo federal advantages the festive period offers to constituency, Iyan and make wealth and promote their products Egusi soup from Ilesha which in turn impact positively the federal constituency, economy of the state and creates more •WAPCO team and some of the Market women who participated in Ajinomoto cooking competition at Anamo and Epo pupa from job opportunities.

Odo Otin, Eko and Ila Osun festival.

The celebration of Osun Osogbo festival had transcend the spirituality of it, as it had in turn served as research centre, advocacy for usage of products and services, tourism purpose, marketing of products, social platform for making friend and contacts.

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I’m Not Planning To Leave ADP - Adeoti FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

By Sikiru Obarayese The governorship candidate of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) in the State of Osun, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti has said his current stay in the party is on permanent basis and not temporary.

This is just as he best interest of the described as untrue, the masses. rumour of his plans to “I didn’t just wake up surrender his mandate one day to say I wanted and align with one of the to contest in the political parties and its governorship election for candidate ahead of the self-serving purpose.

September 22 “I have the support of gubernatorial election in the people who believe in Osun State. my ability to take Osun to In a statement by the the next level,” Alhaji Moshood Adeoti Adeoti stated.

C a m p a i g n The ADP candidate Organization’s (MACO) further stated that since Director of Media and he secured the ADP’s Publicity, Mr Kayode governorship ticket, the Agbaje in Osogbo, the thought to surrender his state capital, Adeoti said supporters’ mandate has his decision to contest in never for once crossed his the governorship election mind. was never for any selfWhile calling on his serving reason but in the teeming supporters

Aregbesola Appoints New COS, LGSC Chair Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has appointed the Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Honourable Rasaq Salinsile as his new Chief of Staff on Wednesday.

The appointment subsequent to his followed the resignation appointment by the of his former Chief of governor.

Staff, Alhaji Gboyega The governor also Oyetola after emerging as appointed Tunde the APC candidate for the Adedeji as the Chairman, September 22 Local Government governorship election.

Service Commission.

He was sworn in

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ADP to create a state of their dreams.

He further warned the masterminds of the

rumour to desist from spreading such rumours that are capable of confusing the electorate.

was at its low ebb in

By Sola Jacobs The late Ogunsua of Modakeke, Oba (Dr) Francis Urban Day Area as both Olatunji Adedoyin Olaogbun has been described park and market in the area did not close down as a huge loss to humanity. like that of better life The chairman of Ife town. market in Oke D.O, East Area Council It was observed that all Boosa market and Comrade Abiodun shops, markets and Apaina market in the Olomola while speaking public institutions in the town. with OSUN DEFENDER town were shut down to Also, few in Modakeke on mourn the demise of the motorcyclists were seen Tuesday, described the monarch who was said to plying the roads, while late monarch as a lover of have joined his ancestor economic activities in peace and a bridge some days ago.

Iraye, where there are builder.

Olomola said that a large numbers of Hausa He stated further that day holiday was declared traders was not open for the late Ogunsua is a by the council to mourn commercial activities. patriot and loyalist who the passage of the Mallam Ishayaku had contributed to the monarch.

Mohammed, a cocoa development of It was also gathered trader in Iraye described Modakeke town in the that economic activities late Ogunsua as lover of face of multitude of challenges.

Also a business mogul and an indigene of the The Permanent Secretary, Osun State Universal town, Chief Ayo Basic Education Board, Alhaji Fatai Kolawole has Olanrewaju described commiserated with the people of Modakeke both the demise of Oba Dr at home and in diaspora on the demise of the Francis Adedoyin whom Ogunsua of Modakeke Oba Francis Adedoyin, he said is a repository of Olaogbin 1. history as a colossal loss.

He described Late Oba He made this known in Chief Olanrewaju said a press statement on Adedoyin as the liberator that Oba Adedoyin is a Wednesday. of the people of loyalist and a patriot to Alhaji Kolawole Modakeke who fought a the course of Modakeke described the death of the good fight throughout his town, as well as a late monarch as a great reign for the total peaceful personality who loss to the sons and emancipation of his championed the daughters of Modakeke people. development of the worldwide.

He said, “Baba

all tribes which informed various ethnic groups such as Igbo, Hausas, Igbira, Nupes settlement within and outside the community.

He therefore prayed for the repose of the soul of the late monarch.

Meanwhile, the Eesa of Modakeke will be handling matters pertaining to the traditional affairs of the town pending the time the burial and installation of the new Ogunsua of Modakeke will be announced, it was gathered.

across all the party divides to disregard such rumour, Alhaji Adeoti

called on other political parties with progressive backgrounds to join hands with him and the

Modakeke Mourns Monarch

Osun SUBEB PS Commiserates With Indigenes

Migraine: Causes, Symptoms And Treatments Sometimes, it is referred to as one sided headache and atimes as tension headaches. Whatever name it is referred to, the medical name for it is migraine and when it does occur, it is described as throbbing pain that disorientates, causes confusion, brings about pounding in the head, nausea, vomiting, temporarily makes the person to have difficulty seeing, weaknesses, numbness on the hands and feet.

Medically, it has been proven that women suffer migraine more than men but that men suffer it longer (duration) than women.

Whichever one it is, migraine or one sided headache is not an ache to toy with as the pain can make even the strongest physically to break down and cry.

Normally, migraine sufferers have a history behind them and treatment has to trace the history but it is also important to treat migraine based on the underlying factors rather than the aches and pains.

What is Migraine?

Migraine is a neurological condition that can cause multiple symptoms. It’s frequently characterized by intense, debilitating headaches. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, difficulty speaking, numbness or tingling, and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines often run in families and affect all ages.

The diagnosis of migraine headaches is determined based on clinical history, reported symptoms, and by ruling out other causes. The most common categories of migraine headache are those without aura, common migraines and those with aura, classic migraines.

Migraines can begin in childhood or may not occur until early adulthood. Women are more likely than men to have migraines. Family history is one of the most common risk factors for having migraines.

Migraines are different from other headaches.

Types of Migraine There are many types of migraines. Two of the most common types are migraine without aura and migraine with aura. Some people have both types Migraine symptoms Migraine without aura. This type of migraine used to

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sacrificed his personal comfort and wellbeing to fight for the identity of his people despite numerous calculated attempts to suppress him and his believe.”

Alhaji Kolawole added that the late monarch’s wise counsel will be greatly missed.

He however prayed God to give the late king eternal rest.

With

FRANCIS EZEDIUNO

be called common migraine. Most people with migraine don’t experience an aura.

Migraine with aura. This type of migraine used to be called classic migraine, complicated migraine, and hemiplegic migraine. Migraine with aura occurs in 25 per cent of people who have migraines.

Symptoms include: food cravings, depression, fatigue or low, energy, frequent yawning, hyperactivity, irritability, neck stiffness.

In migraine with aura, the person may have problems with vision, sensation, movement, and speech. Examples of these problems include: difficulty speaking clearly, feeling a prickling or tingling sensation in your face, arms, or legs, seeing shapes, light flashes, or bright spots, temporarily losing your vision Pain associated with migraine Migraine pain most commonly affects the forehead area. It is usually on one side of the head, but it can occur on both sides, or shift.

Most migraines last about 4 hours. If they are not treated or do not respond to treatment, they can last for as long as a week.

Treatment of migraine Migraines cannot be cured but it can be managed so that its occurrence will be less and its symptoms can be

treated when they occur. Treatment can also help make it less severe.

Treatment can take the following forms. It can be based on age, frequency of attacks, the type of migraine, its severity and duration of attack, severity of the pain and how it affects daily routine, nausea or vomiting, other symptoms and health conditions and medications previously taken.

Migraine remedies It is advisable to, lie down in a quiet, dark room, massage the scalp or temples, place a cold cloth over the forehead or behind the neck.

Medication to treat migraine Medications can be used to either prevent a migraine from happening or treat it once it occurs. You may be able to get relief with OTC medication. However, if OTC medications are not effective, the doctor may decide to prescribe other medications.

It should be noted that the frequency and recurrent use of any kind of headache drugs can cause what is known as medication overuse headache. Persons with migraine are at higher risk of developing this complication.

What causes migraines?

Researchers have not identified a definitive cause for migraines. They have found some contributing factors that can trigger the condition. These include changes in brain chemicals, such as a decrease in levels of the brain chemical serotonin.

Other factors that may trigger a migraine include: bright lights, severe heat, dehydration, hormone changes in women, pregnancy, or menopause, excess stress, loud sounds, intense physical activity, skipping meals, changes in sleep patterns, use of certain medications, unusual smells, certain foods, smoking, alcohol abuse, traveling Foods too may likely trigger migraines. Foods such as alcohol or caffeinated drinks, food additives, aspartame (artificial sugar) and monosodium glutamate.

This piece is written by Dr. Tayo Mootemi

Court Remands Three Suspects Over N1million Theft FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

CRIME

By Aisha Oyebamiji offence contrary to and under A Magistrate Court in Osogbo has remanded two punishable men and a woman in prison custody over alleged section 8 (1) (A) of the advance fee fraud laws stealing of N1,150,000.

They are, Azeez together to commit of Federal Republic of felony to wit stealing and Nigeria, 2002.

Abdulsamad, 23, Abiodun informed the Nusirudeen Aranse, 25, thereby committed an Salako Medinat, 23, and they are facing three count charges bothering on stealing and fraud.

By Aisha Oyebamiji The Prosecutor, An Osun State Police command has arraigned a A s s i s t a n t 26 years old woman, Temilola Ogunyemi and Superintendent of Police, Abiodun Olaniyan over alleged stealing of fish Fagboyinbo Abiodun valued at N3,120,900. disclosed that two of the The accused persons Igbonna, Osogbo. suspect and others at He stressed that the large fraudulently who are facing two count obtained a sum of charges bothering on defendants conspired to N1,150,000 from one theft pleaded not guilty commit felony to wit Azeez Abdulsamad with to the charge preferred stealing, thereby the pretence that they against them. committed an offence Police Prosecutor, will provide some contrary to and charms for him to be rich Adegoke Taiwo said the punishable under knowing fully to be false. accused stole some Furthermore, he assorted parks of fish, section 516 of the stressed that the accused property of Jordan criminal code cap 34 vol.

Fisheries 11 laws of Osun State of persons did conspire Betsay

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court that the accused committed the offence on or before August, 28, 2018 at NIPCO filling station, Oshogbo.

He said the accused persons and others at

large did steal cash sum of N1,150,000, property of one Afolabi Hammed Kayode.

The Magistrate, Mrs. Awodele Modupe ordered the accused

person to be remanded in prison pending the adjournment date.

The case was adjourned to November 23, 2018 for mention.

Nigeria, 2003.

Adegoke had told the court that the accused committed the offence between the month of June 2017 and July 2018.

The defence counsel, T.B Ayodele holding brief for Okobe Najite prayed the court to grant

his clients bail in the most liberal terms.

The Magistrate, Mrs. Modupe Awodele granted the bail to the accused in the sum of N500,000 with two sureties.

One of the sureties must be a civil servant

not below Grade Level 10 and should swear to affidavit of means.

The case was adjourned to September 14, 2018 and is to be mentioned at the Magistrate Court three, Osogbo.

By Badmus Toheeb A Magistrate Court in Osogbo has sentenced a 32year-old man, Adeosun Saheed to one month imprisonment for stealing N10,000 and one itel phone valued N12,000.

Saheed was docked on four count charges bothering on stealing to which he pleaded guilty.

The prosecutor, Olayiwola Rasaq informed the court that the accused person committed the offence on 19th June 2018 at about 9pm at Obate Area, Osogbo.

He said the accused stole N10,000, one itel phone valued N12,000 from one Owolabi Kamarudeen, an offence contrary to section 516 of criminal code cap 34 vol.11 laws of Osun state of Nigeria.

His counsel pleaded with the court to temper justice with mercy, saying the culprit would turn a new person if given another chance.

Mr O. Oladoke sentenced him to one month imprisonment.

Two In Court Over Stealing Man Sentenced To A Month Jail Over Stealing Of Phone

Man In Court Over Alleged N5.3m Fraud

By Sukurat Adewumi

Robbery Suspects Remanded In Prison •Vehicle Abuse: An overloaded commercial bus sighted along Ikire/Ibadan express way on Monday. Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI

contravene section 6(b)

By Olarotimi Joseph and punishable under A Magistrate Court sitting in Osogbo Osun state section 1(I) of the robbery has remanded three suspects in Ilesha prison and firearms (special custody on Monday over alleged robbery. provisions) Act cap All The three accused the accused persons vol.14 Laws of the Persons, Adeloye Pelumi committed the offence on federation of Nigeria, 22, Afeez Adigun 32 and September 24, 2017 at 2004.

Nasirudeen jamiyu 25 about 1pm at Island Bar, The accused persons were docked on seven Asubiaro area Osogbo. who were represented by Fagboyinbo summited Mr.A. count charges bothering Emmanuel the offence pleaded not guilty to the on conspiracy, felony to that wit armed robbery.

The prosecutor A s s i s t a n t Superintendent of police

By Olarotimi Joseph Fagboyinbo Abiodun said the accused persons Osun State Police Command has arraigned a 26armed themselves with year-old man,Pamilerinayo Seyi before a Magistrate axes and cutlasses and Court in Osogbo, Osun over alleged stealing of robbed one Daramola of Nokia phone. his Blackberry Mobile He further said that the Pamilerinayo was phone worth N21,000. docked on Monday offence committed is He added that the September 3, 2018 over contrary to section 390 accused persons engaged alleged stealing of Nokia and punishable under in an unlawful society phone that worth N4,000. section 390(a) of criminal named Eiye secret cult He also said the code cap 34 vol.11laws of and use illegal assembly accused persons stole osun state of Nigeria to disturb the peace of the infinix hot 5 phone that 2003. community.

The Prosecutor, worth N39,500 and two The prosecutor Diamond Bank ATM Inspector Olayinka informed the court that cards.

Rasaq, informed the

charges preferred against them.

The Presiding Magistrate, Mrs Fatima Sodamade ordered that the three men be remanded in Ilesha prison custody.

She adjourned the case to October 24, 2018 for mention.

Police Arraigned One For Phone Theft court that the accused persons committed the offence on August 29, 2018 at Osun State University Osogbo main campus Oke-Baale, area.

The accused pleaded not guilty to the count charge against him.

The Presiding Magistrate, Mrs. Fatima Sodamade granted the accused bail in the sum of N100,000 with one surety.

The case was adjourned to September 2018 for mention.

A 46-year-old man, Fola Funsho has been arraigned before an Osogbo Magistrate Court for allegedly defrauding Mr. Akinola Adekunle with the pretence of paying him for the goods sold to him.

Fola Funsho was not guilty to the charges docked on two count alleged against him. charges bothering on The defence counsel, fraud and stealing.

Barrister Amaechi Ngwu The Prosecutor, humbly applied for the Inspector Elisha bail of the accused person Olusegun told the court in most liberal terms. that the accused person The Magistrate, O.A fraudulently obtained Ayilara granted the 10.28kg of Cashew Nuts defendant bail in the sum valued N5,399,000 from of N5, 000,000 with two one Akinola Adekunle sureties.

John with a pretence of One of the sureties paying him for the goods. must reside within the He explained that the jurisdiction of the court defendant committed the and must be a civil offence on March 16, servant with the state of 2016.

Osun of not less than He added that the Grade Level 12, while the offence committed is other must be a landed punishable under section property owner who is 419 of the criminal code ready to deposit his cap 34 vol. 11 laws of document with the court.

Osun State of Nigeria, The case was 2002. adjourned to October 3, The accused pleaded 2018 for settlement.

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ON THE HUSTINGS

22

Osun 2018: Ooni, Aregbesola Rally Support For APC Candidate FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

By Sola Jacobs

It was a scene to behold in Ile-Ife on Tuesday, as people of the ancient town trooped out in their large numbers to welcome the campaign team of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by Governor Rauf Aregbesola ahead of the September 22 governorship election.

The team had earlier called Rauf Aregbesola visited the palace of Ooni has been able to lay the of Ife, Oba Enitan foundation for the rapid Ogunwusi, where the development of our state royal father blessed the and it must be sustained the coming APC gubernatorial by candidate in the government”, the royal father stressed. forthcoming September 22 In his remarks, the APC election, Alhaji Gboyega flag bearer, Alhaji Oyetola.

Oyetola The Ooni of Ife while Gboyega addressing the people at promised to continue the his palace expressed building of Osun into one confidence in the of the strongest economies Nigeria which candidature of Alhaji in Gboyega Oyetola, saying Aregbesola has laid a he believes the party foundation for.

He highlighted sectors cannot make a wrong as education, choice because Aregbesola such agriculture, infrastructural has done well for Osun.

Oba Ogunwusi who developments among congratulated Aregbesola others as the areas which for successfully steering his government will build the ship of Osun in the past upon if elected into office, eight years, noted that saying he has all it takes to what the state needs now take over from Governor is someone who has the Rauf Aregbesola.

According to him, “by capacity to build on the legacies of the outgoing the grace of God, there is nothing that has happened governor.

He said Osun has in this government in the witnessed tremendous past eight years that I don’t development to the extent know about, I know how that no one will wish for it and where to start my to stop.

“We have no choice as a people than to support and vote for a candidate that has the capacity to continue with the wonderful work that Aregbesola has done” “We thank God for our state because this man

assignment immediately I get into office if elected.

“I want the people of Osun to take the advantage of the fact that I am not new in the system, with me by the grace of God things will work more smoothly.

“I know the direction which Osun needs to turn to at this point in time and I already have the development plans for Ileife and other parts of Osun.

“Aregbesola has laid the foundation for the development, we don’t have any other choice than to build on that solid foundation, a vote for the APC is a vote for the continuity of good governance in Osun”, Oyetola stressed.

Addressing the mammoth crowd at the Technical college ground along Ifewara road, venue of the mega rally, Governor Aregbesola assured the people of the state of the continuity of good governance if the APC candidate is elected into office.

Aregbesola pointed out that while his tenure his winding down, the best candidate that can be

As the state of Osun gubernatorial election draws closer, activities towards D-Day, September 22nd, gather momentum by the day, as contending political parties and their candidates are out in full force in readiness for that crucial date that history will be made again.

All nooks and crannies of the state - Osogbo city •Momoth crowd of APC suppoters in Ile-Ife. especially; being the seat of power - are already littered with posters and billboards of the governorship candidates participating in the coming poll.

A keen observation of the contending candidates will reveal to that, out of them all, only the candidate of the All Ogbeni Aregbesola has also Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji demonstrated that level of seriousness to Isiaka Adegboyega Oyetola, exhibits the governance demands by recording level of seriousness the state demands unprecedented giant strides in the state, from whoever will succeed Ogbeni to in spite of the monetary challenges he has move it forward. I say this much because had to face. going by the reality on ground, the APC With the level of development Osun candidate looks well and better prepared has attained under Ogbeni, the state than others in this race. This is an cannot afford to slip back to the preindisputable statement of fact as the level Aregbesola inglorious era when our of preparedness of each of all the infrastructure was dilapidated, our candidates - as visible on ground - can schools were shambolic, our hospitals testify. were devoid of necessary drugs and other It was the avatar, Chief Obafemi medical tools while flooding was the Awolowo of blessed memory who once order of the day. The good governance quipped, that “governance is a serious our people have tasted under Aregbesola business”. Thus anyone who wants to come to government to lead the people must come with all sense of seriousness; meaning that he must not only be intellectually equipped, he must be visionary, focused and determined to bring to the fore, a purposeful government that will uplift the living condition of the people. Chief Awolowo exhibited these qualities much as the Premier of the old western region which is the reason he still remains a reference point of good governance till date.

trusted with the job of moving the state forward is Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola whom the party has picked through a direct primary.

“Alhaji Oyetola is someone who has all it takes to move this great state of ours forward from where we have taken it to,

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he has the capacity to deliver.

“He is a cool-headed fellow who has all it takes to govern a state like Osun and we will not be mistaken to vote him as the next governor of Osun.

We should be very careful not to jeopardize our chances of moving this state forward.

“We should be careful not to allow those who don’t meant well for us and the future of our children to get into office as the governor of our dear state.

Our future generation will not be happy with us if we allow wicked people back in government”, Aregbesola emphasised.

...Ife Agog

By Sola Jacobs

As the All Progressives Congress (APC) flagged off its gubernatorial campaign, the people of Ile-Ife turned out enmass to show their support for the party on Tuesday. the The supporters of the enumerated party who adorned achievements of the party, such as building of statethemselves with various T schools, Shirts, Fez cap, different of-art Aso ebi with inscription empowerment of women, youths and people living “Ifeland for Oyetola”, “I stand tall for G.O” and with disabilities.

Also, they commended “Continuity for progress” among others started the party for peaceful trooping to the Technical atmosphere since 2010 till College ground Ilode as date and the security of early as 8am, while others lives and properties in converged at Enuwa Ifeland, which according Square awaiting the to them were not there incumbent governor and prior to 2010.

Also, many electorate, the gubernatorial candidate of the party, who are not party members but spoke with Alhaji Gboyega Oyeola.

Some of the party this medium said that supporters who spoke though there is economic with the medium challenge in the country,

A Reflection On The Candidates (1)

Kola Odepeju On Why Oyetola Is The Best Man For The Job

visionary leadership must continue and only a serious minded person of Oyetola’s ilk can ensure this. An unserious candidate cannot ensure it; neither can an intellectually weak one, nor an ‘I-justwant-to-be-governor’ candidate, let alone a mere dancer - with no clear vision of what he wants for himself - not to talk of a whole state. This is just the crux of the matter.

Save Gboyega Oyetola who, keen observers of Osun governorship candidates, among which is Professor Razaq Abubakre of the University of Ilorin have described as calm, intelligent, level-headed, competent and

With the level of development Osun has attained under Ogbeni, the state cannot afford to slip back to the pre-Aregbesola inglorious era when our infrastructure was dilapidated, our schools were shambolic, our hospitals were devoid of necessary drugs and other medical tools while flooding was the order of the day.

but the administration of Ogbeni Aregbesola had cushioned the effect through social welfare programme of the party in the state such as O’meal for pupils in elementary schools and the Agba Osun scheme which had been giving stipends to indigent elderly people.

The residents of the city therefore declared their support for the APC in the forth coming election, adding that it is the only party that takes care of the less priviledge in the society through its various programmes.

They therefore called on the party gubernatorial candidate, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola to continue with the laudable programmes of Ogbeni Aregbesola when elected especially the OYES Progamme and the support for Cocoa farmers, which is the main produce of the Ife people and provision of infrastructure, such as good roads network in IleIfe and its environs.

intellectually fit to provide the needed visionary leadership for Osun, none of the candidates has what it takes to carry on the good work of Ogbeni. This is no exaggeration or an attempt to rubbish other candidates.

It’s a factual statement that could be subjected to the test of a true statement through organising a debate for all the aspiring candidates so as to test their level of competence and preparedness. As can be seen on ground now, Oyetola remains the only candidate who has come out with a clear manifestoe of what he intends to do if he eventually gets to power.

In comparison to others, Oyetola is a tested and trusted candidate. He is not a novice when it comes to administration.

Being a successful manager in the private sector, he has been able to bring his experience; his managerial capacity and administrative prowess to bear as the Chief of Staff to Ogbeni Aregbesola which has aided and eased Ogbeni’s work, resulting in huge success for the administration.

A good example here is how he has used his level-headedness to mediate successfully between government and workers in resolving government/labour palavers in the past years. Ogbeni himself once said of him “Oyetola is a major pillar behind my administration due to his cool and calm demeanour and the wisdom with which he has handled staff relations and other sensitive matters of state “.

One could go on and on explaining those factors that make Oyetola thicker and more qualified than others in this gubernatorial race. Thus a fortiori in this race to Abere, let the one who the cap fits wear it. Oyetola, no doubt, is the man.

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Truth About Osun Governorship Election .

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In less than a month, another helmsman to paddle the affairs of the ‘fragile’ State of Osun will emerge. I say ‘fragile’ because this is not a period when the affairs of the state should be allowed to be handled by a novice, amateur or inept leaders. Ever since the state was created in 1991, it has never been given direction as it has now, painstakingly! The state is now charting the course of prestigious and socioeconomically developed states of the world with the array of sophisticated infrastructural projects it has witnessed.

Osun was adjudged the fastest developing state in 2013. Thanks to the efforts of Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola led administration.

If a state can be seen as a living organism, then the years between 2010 and 2018 were Osun’s adolescence, a time when the sleepy capital of the ancient Yoruba Kingdom became a booming metropolis, a place both bubbling and orderly, always raising the bar of achievements, sometimes sparkling and most times peaceful, but always willing to experiment, forging ahead impatiently towards the future.

Now the future is here and State of Osun is among the cities in Nigeria to treasure. Osun has proved that with little, a prudent leader can achieve more. In less than eight years, the ‘before and after’ pictures of projects in the state look different and interesting.

The Orita Olaiya Junction in Osogbo is now wearing a new look. Eleven state of the art government high schools, with three in Osogbo as Osogbo, Ataoja and Fakunle-Unity Government High Schools; one in Iwo as Iwo Baptist Government High School; and one in Ila as Ila Government High School.

Others are in Ife as Oduduwa Government High School; in Ejigbo as Wole Soyinka Government High School; in Ikire as Ayedade Government High School; in Ede as Adventist Government High School; in Ikirun as Akirun Government High School and in Ilesa as Ilesa Government High School. The elementary and middle schools in the state witnessed the construction of over three hundred buildings.

At the Gbongan junction of Ibadan to Osogbo road, even a blind will feel the ambience of the prestigious Adebisi Akande Trumpet Bridge. This is a bridge that has allayed the fears of motorists to Osogbo from Ibadan and Lagos. It was a death-trap before the assumption of power of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola. It is complemented by eight lane dualised roads that will make transport from Gbongan to Osogbo a memorable experience. There is no local government in the state that does not have at least 10 kilometre tarred road with concrete drainage at the two sides.

The Orita Olaiya to Erinle, a bother town to Kwara State is also wearing a new look. The projects are unprecedented!

Prior to becoming the governor of the state, Ogbeni Aregbesola had in place a six-points integral action plan, as his master plan, the ‘green book’ – My Pact With The Osun People. He promised to banish hunger, banish poverty, banish

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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 7 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 13, 2018

unemployment, promote healthy living, promote functional education and promote communal peace and progress. To a large extent, these promises have been partly met. To banish hunger and ensure food security, the administration established Osun Rural Enterprise and Agricultural Programme (OREAP). To banish unemployment, the administration engaged 20,000 youths in a classical and innovative method called OYES (Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme) and to promote functional education was the basis for the education reform.

Iconic states all over the world were made by leaders. Leaders who resolved to develop their states at all costs.

Washington DC was developed by George Washington who was a trained surveyor; Dubai was developed by the current ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

For close to eight years now, Osun has recorded monumental achievements that must not be allowed to decay.

The progress, over years, should also be sustained.

OBSERVATION

BY OLUFEMI OYEDELE

He is also the Vice President and the Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirate and attended school in the United Kingdom before he became part of the everyday running of the UAE. The great developments achieved in Lagos State can be traced to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and continuity of his believes. Successive governments which succeeded Tinubu’s administrations are products of his government.

The great achievements in Osun were due to the sacrifice of all, especially the workers in whose name the Orita Olaiya to Isale Osun has been named.

For close to eight years now, Osun has recorded monumental achievements that must not be allowed to decay. The progress, over years, should also be sustained. Over fifty-one parties have shown interest and will be fielding candidates for the September 22, 2018, election. But not all are qualified or have the capacity to excel and deliver the dividends of democracy. The minimum qualification to contest in India is Standard IV, but no prime minister in India has less than Master’s degree.

The name of the former Chief of Staff to the Government of the State of Osun is a recurrent decimal. Gboyega Oyetola is the man that was part of the planning and execution team of the State of Osun to its enviable position. Gboyega Oyetola was born in Iragbiji, Boripe Local Government Area of the State of Osun. He attended Ifeoluwa Grammar School in Osogbo for his secondary school education which he completed in 1972 in flying colours. He proceeded to the prestigious University of Lagos where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree in Insurance in 1978. Alhaji Oyetola capped his education pursuit with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in 1990 at the same University of Lagos, Akoka,

Lagos.

He had his mandatory one year National Youth Service between 1978 and 1979, at Potiskum, in the present day Yobe State, where he lectured at the then Borno State Staff Training Centre, Potiskum. In 1980, he joined Leadway Assurance Company Limited as Area Manager and worked there till 1987. He took another step by taking his expertise to Crusader Insurance Company Limited as Underwriting Manager between 1987 and 1990. He moved again in 1990 to Alliance and General Insurance as Technical Controller and served in that capacity until 1991. However, he took a giant step in 1991 by establishing his own Company, Silvertrust Insurance Brokers Limited. He was the Managing Director since its founding until his appointment as Chief of Staff in 2011.

His other forays in business include Executive Vice-Chairman, Paragon Group of Companies which has interest in Oil and Gas, Mining and Real Estate from 2005 until 2011. He was also Chairman of Ebony Properties Limited.

He had been a Director of Pyramid Securities Limited, until 2011, among other business interests, before his appointment as Chief of Staff. Gboyega Oyetoal has vowed and affirmed to use his wealth of experience, both in private and public sector to better the lot of Osun people. His manifesto is an offshoot of the Six-Points Integral Action Plan of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.

In his stride to become the next governor of the State of Osun, Alhaji Oyetola has programmes that will position the state as an enviable state.

The former Chief of Staff has vowed to consolidate all the gains of the past governments, especially, his immediate past, make amendments, where necessary and project the state as an economic hub. In his words: “Our vision is premised on continuity and consolidation, we shall build on all the successes of Aregbesola, like we can see, the Osun of today was not the Osun we met in 2010, we have modernized our state, we touched all sectors of our national life, indeed this is the touch and beauty of good governance. Our own job is to give this man our mandate to consolidate the gains of our “heroes past”. The best thing to happen to the state is the continuity of a progressive government.

“We are not where we planned to be but we have move forward from where we used to be. We shall fine tune objectively the six points integral action plan contained in the green book upon which Aregbesola triumphed, we shall make our government work for all irrespective of status; our priorities shall be to ensure we have a well-motivated civil service to ensure maximum productivity to implement all our laudable policies and programmes in education, health, agriculture, housing, sports, environment etc.” These are the assurance of Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola that is worthy of our consideration.

•Olufemi Oyedele, Osogbo, State of Osun.

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 Editor, KAZEEM MOHAMMED, Telephone: 0806-220-7954, kazeemayofe26@yahoo.com. ISSN: 0794-8050.Website: www.osundefender.org., Email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com,