Osun defender september 9, 2016 edition

www.osundefender.org FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016 For several years to come the tangible achievements of Ogbeni Aregbesola's administration in the state of Osun especially in education sector will continue to be appreciated by those who value

THE 6TH MOST-VISITED NEWSPAPER WEBSITE IN NIGERIA

Front Page Comment

VOL. 11. NO.084

N100

Osun: Setting The Pace In Education

education as the bedrock of growth and development in any society.

The massive investment in education by Ogbeni's administration tells much about Osun's helmsman's belief in

education as an incontrovertible and veritable means of transforming the society.

For nothing surpasses human capital development in development indices. For any leadership to build a greater future for the incoming generations it must

invest massively in education. Thus for the discerning minds this realisation most surely informs the passionate commitment of Mr. Governor of the state of Osun to educational

Osun. The investment in educational infraadvancement in his state. structure is quite Hate him or like him, no noticeable; making reasonable and objecmany to marvel at tive mind will turn a blind such level of achieveeye to the tangible ment in a state with achievements of Ogbeni meagre resources. Of Aregbesola in the course only a prudent educational sector in Continued on Page 5

Baseless Criticism Of Aregbesola’s Commissioned Mega-School:

Frustrated PDP Needs Deliverance, Says Osun APC - See Story On Page 2

•State of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (right), with the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, rejoicing on the emergence of Barrister Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) as Ondo State’s APC governorship candidate in Lagos last Monday.

Multi-million Naira Carnival For Ooni Ogunwusi's 1st Anniversary

-Pg 3

OSUN DEFENDER Friday, September 9, 2016

News

2

Baseless Criticism Of Aregbesola’s Commissioned Mega-School: Frustrated PDP Needs Deliverance, Says Osun APC

T

HE All Progressives Congress (APC) in the State of Osun has taken the fractured Peoples Democratic Party to task and advised the party’s leadership to seek psychological and spiritual help before frustration and fear completely destroy its designed to extort the thinking process.

The APC stated this people of the state.

According to the in Osogbo last Wednesday in reaction factional chairman of to a newspaper report the PDP, Governor credited to a factional Aregbesola did not chairman of the state inform Mr. President of PDP, Soji Adagunodo, the commercial nature in which he alleged that of the school that had the new mega school allegedly been priced which President beyond the people’s Mohammadu Buhari reach.

But the APC, commissioned last week in Osogbo was responding, said that

not only was the PDP’s allegation fabricated, ‘it doesn’t have the fragment of truth in it, and it will appear to have been the product of a sick mind,’ the APC claimed.

In a statement signed and made available to the media in Osogbo by Barrister Kunle Oyatomi, APC Director of Publicity, Research and Strategy, the party was emphatic that ‘the Osogbo Government High School commissioned

by President Buhari ‘is

to provide quality education to students like the other such schools, which the Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola-led government has built in the six years of the A C N / A P C government.

The APC attributed the false statement by the PDP to a fear syndrome bothering on intense frustration which was giving the leadership jitters, as Aregbesola continued to perform excellently, in spite of the economic

downturn, which has badly affected the country.

According to the APC, “the last six years in the life of the State of Osun have been monumental, and the legacy in human, economic and social development which Governor Aregbesola has achieved, will continue to be celebrated well into the next quarter of a century,” the APC boasted.

“We challenge the PDP to point to any

•State of Osun Commandant of Peace Corps of Nigeria, Patriot Ayinde Paul (middle) in a group photograph with State Executives and some Officers during their three-day seminar and inspection of a new Osogbo Government High School in preparation for students’ resumption, held on Wednesday.

Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI.

Aregbesola Commiserates With Abiara, CAC On The Death Of Cleric’s Wife

T

HE State Government of Osun has described the death of Mrs Christiana Abiara, wife of the General Evangelist of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Worldwide, Prophet Samuel Abiara, as a great loss to Christiandom and the Christ Apostolic Church of Nigeria. having served as a pillar Mrs Abiara passed on of support to one of the to the great beyond on great evangelists the Saturday, 3rd of country has produced September, 2016 at the in Pa Abiara. age of 70.

He noted that Mrs The State Governor, Abiara was a great Ogbeni Rauf pillar behind the Aregbesola, in a General Evangelist of statement signed by the the CAC organisation Pastor Director, Bureau of worldwide, Abiara, Communications and Solomon standing by the Strategy, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, said the s e p t u a g e n a r i a n death of the Abiara through his evangelical matriarch has left a calling.

“I receive the death large vacuum in Christiandom and the of the wife of Prophet Abiara on Sunday Christ Apostolic Church of Nigeria, as with a heavy heart, but her motherly role in the I have a strong service of God would conviction that Mama, as a fervent Christian be greatly missed by and ardent believer, no the church in Nigeria. doubt, led a The governor meaningful life of a described Mrs Abiara good Christian during as a great mother, loyal her earthly sojourn. wife and above all, a “On behalf of my role model of a mother, family, government

and the people of the State of Osun, I offer our heartfelt condolences to both the immediate and

extended family members of Abiara. We pray that Almighty God would grant her a befitting abode in

paradise reserved for the pious and the righteous on earth,” the governor said.

legacy project it achieved in the 16 catastrophic years it ruled Nigeria between 1999 and 2015’, the APC said, adding that the PDP ought to know that a party, which has failed like itself, should hide its face in shame.

The statement from the APC pointed to the significant achievement the governor has recorded in the education sector, which has not only increased school enrolment, it has also brought public school’s infrastructure and content to a level that it can now compete favourably with elite private schools anywhere in Nigeria.

“This achievement alone,” the APC said, “has destabilised the PDP leadership and disoriented their frame of mind to the extent that they have resulted to blatantly fabricate stories that are totally false.

‘The mega schools by the government are such a powerful monuments that the people of Osun will continue to appreciate and celebrate Aregbesola, no matter the hogwash the PDP tells to disparage the project,” the APC declared.

The party therefore, called on the good people of the state to discountenance PDP’s lies, much of which was borne of envy because that party’s leadership has no capacity to be as creative as Ogbeni Aregbesola-led APC government.

“The PDP cannot give what it doesn’t have,” adding that, “the party’s leadership is shallow.”

Para-military Holds Prayer For Peace In Osun T HE Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other paramilitary organisations in the State of Osun have organised a special prayer to mark the climax of the Silver Jubilee of the creation of the state.

The prayer session God. Ayodele maintained featured praise and worship and was held that the NSCDC had to thank and glorify fared well in the state God for sustaining and would remain proactive in the peace across the state.

Speaking at the event, discharge of its duty at the State Commandant all times.

“In the last one year, of the NSCDC, which is the convener of the we’ve been able to paramilitary Praise maintain law and order Jam, Mr Phillips to some certain extent, Ayodele, pointed out knowing full-well that that though there were Osun is a peaceful state, still many challenges so we’ve been able to facing the state and the attain that level of country at large, he maintaining law and with the believes there is every order reason to give thanks to cooperation of the

people of the state,” he told reporters.

He assured residents of adequate provision of security of their lives and property provided they were law-abiding.

The Civil Defence boss also promised to keep the identity of anyone who provided them with information that could enhance security and make their job easier in the state secret.

“People should change that notion of not having full confidence in security personnel because the security today is a civilised security and I assure you that no right

thinking agency will disclose the source of information or person that passes the information to them because we have passed that stage.

“Security personnel should be seen as friends of the public and we are there to serve the people, so let’s work together to rid our society of bad elements,” he emphasised.

Mr Ayodele also enjoined residents to feel free to call any of the security agencies’ hotlines when necessary, promising to treat such information with utmost confidentiality.

News

3

OSUN DEFENDER Friday, September 9, 2016

Council Of State Confirms Appointments Of IGP, Others T on Inspector-General of HE Council of State that sat in Abuja last approaching the way to correspondents Wednesday has approved the appointment of rescue the recession path outcome of the meeting, Police (IGP). that we are going through.

Governor Badaru six new National Commissioners for the “There was almost “Council was confident Abubakar of Jigawa State unanimous acceptance of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and five National Commissioners for the National and also approved the disclosed that the council his confirmation. So, the measures the Federal and the Police Council Police Council resolved to Population Commission (NPC). ratified the confirm the Acting Governor Akinwumi Budget and Planning Government is putting in had made a place in ensuring that appointment of Acting Inspector-General of Ambode of Lagos State actually Nigeria goes on the path Inspector-General of Police, Ibrahim Idris,’’ he revealed this known presentation to council while briefing State on the ways and manner of recovery as quickly as Police, Ibrahim Idris.

“We deliberated on the said.

House correspondents on in which the Federal possible.’’

The council meeting Also addressing the confirmation of the is the outcome of the Government meeting of the council.

The meeting was presided over by President Muhammadu HE Federal Government has declared Buhari.

Monday and Tuesday, September 12 and According to him, the September 13 as public holidays to mark council deliberated on the the Eid-el-Kabir. The Minister of Interior, appointment of six Retired Lt.-Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau, made in general to support accelerate the pace of national commissioners the declaration on behalf of the Federal and join hands with economic recovery.

The minister said for INEC, while INEC is Government in a statement signed by the acting President Muhammadu supposed to have 12 Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Buhari in his sustained that government was efforts to diversify the aware of the current Commissioners. economy and economic challenges the “We had earlier Muhammadu Maccido.

He enjoined all Muslims and Nigerians p r o g r e s s i v e l y nation was facing. approved six sometimes last year and additional six were actually approved today. “`And those six represent six nominees from the six geo-political zones.

“You may wish to know that we approved five new commissioners for the National Population Commission (NPC) in addition to what was actually approved for INEC,’’ he said.

Governor Ambode gave the names of the six INEC commissioners to include Alhaji Mohammed Haruna (North Central); retired AVM Ahmed Tijjani Mu’azu (North East); and Abubakar Nahuce (North West).

Others are Prof. •President Muhammadu Buhari (right) viewing the Aeromagnetic map of the Nickel Discovery and Its Independent Okechukwu Ibanu (South Volumetric Analysis being presented by Minister of Minerals and Steel Development, Dr Kayode Fayemi (middle), East); May Agbamuche flanked by Minister of State for Minerals and Steel Development, Alhaji Abubakar Bawa Bwari at the State House, Mbu (South South) and Dr Abuja.

Adekunle Ogumola from the South West.

The NPC Commissioners, according to him, are Dr Eyitayo Oyetunji (Oyo); Patricia Iyaya (Benue); which includes top importance of the Benedict Ukpong (Akwa

By ISMAEEL UTHMAN g o v e r n m e n t carnival, Onyebuchi Ibom); Dr Haliru Bala N entertainment company, Mainstreetz functionaries at the said: “We are using this (Kebbi) and Gloria Isofo Promotions, has said that it has concluded Federal and State opportunity to draw from Bayelsa. plan to celebrate the first anniversary on levels, royal and the attention of the The Lagos State Governor further the throne of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye traditional rulers, general public to this Ogunwusi. held at the Press Centre foreign embassies and upcoming event, which revealed that the council According to the of the Palace of the Ooni missions, distinguished is poised to be one of was also briefed on the group, a multi-million in Ile-Ife on Tuesday. state of the economy. associations from the biggest cultural “The Minister of State Naira carnival has been Onyebuchi said that Nigeria and abroad, show in the State of from the Ministry of slated for December 7, the festival tagged: “Oti visiting guests and Osun and Nigeria.

2016 to celebrate Oba se se (it is positive) dignitaries, among “Ile-Ife is the cradle Change Of Name Ogunwusi’s reign.

Carnival is a cultural others.” of Yoruba civilization The programme is I, formerly known as festival conceived for Stressing the and to have an annual MISS KAYODE being organized in the Office of Ooni celebration bringing MODUPE ALICE, now conjunction with the Ogunwusi to celebrate people together from wish to be called and Royal Court of Ife. his ascension and far and wide is an addressed as MRS This was disclosed by landmark reign. opportunity that ADEYEYE MODUPE the Project Lead for the The carnival, should be utilized.

ALICE. All former programme, Mr according to ”We want to create documents remain valid.

Desmond Onyebuchi, Onyebuchi, was also a platform for UNION Bank and general at a press conference projected at bringing all entertainment, public should take note.

Yoruba (Odua education and reChange Of Name PUBLIC NOTICE descendants)and wellawakening of the wishers from different I, formerly known as This is to inform youths to the cultural MUSTAPHASULAIMAN parts of Nigeria and in members of the public that values of Odua that will OMU-IYADUN now wish diaspora to rejoice the OMOTOLA OMOLARA help foster unity and to be called and addressed reign of the new Ooni ABOLARIN, is the same prosperity of Nigeria.” as OMU-IYADUN of Ife and revel the person as ADETOLA Onyebuchi assured SULAIMAN TITILOPE. legacy of Odua.

OMOLARA TOMIWA. that all guests to the All former documents Onyebuchi stated: All former documents carnival would be remain valid. SKYE Bank remain valid. Union Bank “About one million adequately and and general public should and general public should guests are expected at appropriately secured, take note. take note. the two-day carnival •Ooni

was attended by VicePresident Yemi Osinbajo, state governors, former Chief Justices of Nigeria (CJN) including Lawal Uwais, Dahiru Musdafa, Alfa Belgore and Alooma Muktar.

The first meeting of the council under the current political dispensation, was held on Oct. 21, 2015.

Eid-El-Kabir: FG Declares Monday, Tuesday

T

Public Holidays

He assured that that appropriate steps were being taken to address the challenges.

The minister said that the Federal Government was working toý revitalise the agriculture sector and the “Youth E m p o w e r m e n t Scheme” in Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

He said that other areas of priority to government included the “The “Change Begins with Me”, a value re-orientation programme, and other social intervention programmes as well as massive capital releases.

The minister expressed optimism that the current economic difficulties would soon be over, urging all to continue to support the government toward building a new formidable Nigeria.

He wished all Nigerians a happy Eidel-Kabir celebration.

Multi-million Naira Carnival For Ooni Ogunwusi's 1st Anniversary

A

as arrangements by the organizers in collaboration with all the security agencies, the vigilantes and the youths, who would be fully mobilized and get paid for their services have been mapped out.

In his contribution, the Chief Operating Officer of the group, Seun Famodu, said: “The carnival is aimed at consolidating the vision of Ooni Ogunwusi in transforming Ile-Ife as the cultural and tourism capital of Nigeria, promoting the vast business opportunities and potentials that abide in Ile-Ife.” “The cultural interactive and entertainment activities would include tour and sightseeing of prestigious Ile-Ife landmarks and colourful fete parade, star-studded musical concert and a royal banquet among others.”

If you have a story or advert for us, contact 08033927286, 08033880205, 08061197897, 08023191891.

News

4

OSUN DEFENDER Friday, September 9, 2016

•Former Presidents, Dr Goodluck Jonathan (middle); Genral Abdulsalam Abubakar (2nd left) and others, at the Council of State meeting in Abuja, on Wednesday.

Alaafin Canvasses Support For Boxing

T

HE Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, same time create op- Tournament, which has frowned at the poor attitude of many portunity for young will hold at the Oyo individuals and corporate bodies to the boxers to sharpen their Township Stadium, promotion and development of boxing as a sport skills.

Durba, Oyo will attract Champion Okedara boxers from all the in Nigeria. the country’s no 1 boxOba Lamidi Adeyemi ing enthusiast among said the one-week states of the federation. stated that this has royal fathers and at the Alaafin United Boxing been responsible for the country’s inability to produce world-class boxers as done in the past, when the country produced the likes of the Late Hogan Kid T has been observed that most of the road to speed up to desist Bassey,Dick Tiger,Bash accidents for which the ‘ember months’ is from doing so, rather Ali and Dele Jonathan. notorious are not caused by blood-sucking than speaking up to This submission was made by him through demons or household wickedness but rather by check overspeeding Prince Akeem drunken and over-speeding drivers, who are drivers.

Meanwhile, the State Adeyemi, a member of always in a mad rush for financial breakthrough Technical Committee the House of Represen- during the last quarter of the year. tatives at a press conState of Osun of encouraging drivers will soon kick-start its ference put together to Technical Committee herald Alaafin United on Road Safety headed Boxing Tournament or- by Professor Joseph ganized by Oba Lamidi Fawole, made the Adeyemi III in conjunc- observation during its tion with the former monthly meeting held Nigeria National/Afri- in Osogbo, the state

By ISMAEEL UTHMAN can and UBC World capital.

B o x i n g The committee R Olapade Agoro has threatened to C h a m p i o n , M o j e e d opined that, if the institute a legal action against the Okedara,the Chief Ex- drivers obey the speed Government of the State of Osun for ecutive Officer of limit, in addition to Mojfrican Global keeping their vehicles warning him to desist from parading himself as E v e n t s in good condition, it the Atapami of Itapa-Ijesa area of the state.

The state government “Atapami of ItapaM a n a g e m e n t , T a m p a will stem the tide of had written Agoro Ijesa is non-existent and Florida,USA. road mishaps in the telling him there is no you Oba Lamidi ember months. should stop Adeyemi, who had Professor Fawole, chieftaincy title like parading yourself as a many fights to his credit counselled that, though Atapami in Itapa-Ijesa, holder of a non-existent during his active days the standard speed and he should therefore in boxing, then called limit in Nigeria is cease from calling on amateur boxers 100km per hour, himself that title. throughout the country individual driver In a letter dated to turn-up in large numshould apply common August 19, 2016 signed ber to participate in the occasion by Mr. Femi Ogundun boxing tournament sense as packaged to celebrate demands, explaining for the Permanent the 78th birthday of that when a market or Secretary, Ministry of is on Local Oba Lamidi Adeyemi school Government, between October 8 and t h e e x p r e s s w a y , Chieftaincy, Water common sense 15th, to showcase their Resources, Rural and demands that the boxing potentials. should be Community Affairs, the Speaking in a separate speed state government said i n t e r v i e w , c h a m p i o n broken.

Professor Fawole that there is no Mojeed Okedara said passengers chieftaincy title called the rationale behind his warned efforts is to appreciate who are in the habit Atapami of Itapa-Ijesa. •AGORO

While announcing the cash prizes of N8 million to be won in various categories, Okedara said the boxing championship

organised to honour the Alaafin of Oyo will also be used to confer awards on boxing veterans and distinguished sports personalities in the country.

Osun Road Safety Committee Identifies Root Cause Of Ember Month Accidents

I

state-wide ember month road safety campaign, with visit to Oke-fia and Dada Estate motor parks in Osogbo in the morning.

Professor Fawole

then enjoined the leadership of motor parks already contacted, to ensure that their members are available for the programme on their appointed days.

Atapami Title: Olapade Agoro Threatens

To Sue Osun Govt Over Warning

D

title as this runs contrary to section 21 sub – sections 3(9) and (b) of the chief’s law, cap. 25, laws of the state of Osun, 2012" However, Agoro described the warning of the government as a diversionary tactic to shift the attention of

the people by the current administration.

Reacting in a press statement, Agoro said: he has documentary evidence of his installation in June 1982 where the Eleremon of Ereman, Oba Joe Oyeyemi, who was among the dignitaries, prostrated for him.

Ogoro stated: “Osun State Government has been promoting one controversy or the other. Today it is pokenosing into chieftaincy wrangling.

“No one can say what the governor would do very soon. We are going to resolve this issue in the court of law as my team of lawyers has been lined up to seek redress.”

5

OSUN DEFENDER Friday, September 9, 2016

Osun: Setting The Pace In Education ...Continued from Cover Page manager of resources can achieve this in a state like this. Also highly commendable is the 'O MEAL' (free feeding) programme in the state which has also now become a federal policy. That the federal government thought it right to adopt this policy testifies much to the pace setting status of Osun in educational advancement in the country.

What's more? Much as we cannot name all here, the free uniform to pupils is also worthy of mention. So also is the 'Opon Imo' (tablet of knowledge) designed and distributed free for senior secondary school students in the state so as to make them perform well in

WASSCE, a programme that UNICEF also recently signified intention to copy. All this and other fantastic education promoting programmes have earned Aregbesola accolades both locally and internationally especially the state of the earth school structures.

Most recent of such came from the current Minister of Health in the country, Professor Isaac Adewole who did an inspection tour of both the ongoing and completed school projects in the state of Osun recently.

In the Minister's words; "I am very happy to see this edifices in my state and as a matter of fact, Osun has proven to be a pacesetter in educational infrastructure. This

state is aggressively building extraordinary and memorable legacies in the educational system.

This is a deliberate investment targeted at taking people out of poverty. As a an educationalist, I have traveled far and wide, but there's no other place in Nigeria where public schools are constructed as being done in Osun.

It's my hope that with this innovative ideology and modernity put together to aid education system, Osun is sure of greater future....." The minister had said this amongst others in expressing his surprise and delight at the pace of work going on in Osun in the education sector.

The above coming from the Minister and with the emulation at

Edo Gubernatorial Election Must Be Free And Fair A S the people of Edo state go to the polls on Saturday 10 th September, 2016 to elect a new helmsman to govern the state for the next four years, I want to congratulate the people of the state in advance and wish them a successful, free, fair and credible election.

One is not unaware of the inconclusiveness of most elections conducted in our recent past by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) due to non compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act and thus, we give a big kudos to the electoral umpire for being responsible, patriotic and faithful to its constitutional oath.

By its action, INEC has behaved responsibly to its oath, by placing immense premium on the sanctity of the process and safety of stakeholders; notably electoral officers, party agents, observers, electorates, media and the

security agencies by cancelling elections in areas afflicted by violence in line with its powers.

In the light of this ugly development which is a big dent on our democratic credentials, I wish to use this medium to admonish all the relevant

stakeholders participating in the election to play according to the rules by being responsible, peaceful and orderly in compliance with the Electoral Act in order to deepen our democracy.

However, INEC must be admonished to ensure that its preparations for the election are in top gear to produce a free, fair and transparent election by deploying well trained personnel arriving

promptly at election venues with necessary materials functioning at optimal capacity. INEC must provide feedback mechanisms and back up plans to address any unforeseen challenges on the field.

We all need to call on the

security agencies to be professional in providing adequate security by ensuring that the Edo State gubernatorial election is conducted in a peaceful atmosphere devoid of intimidation and violence through fair and equitable deployment of its personnel to the nooks and cranny of the state. Communication channels and response teams must be put in place to promptly respond to emergency security challenges whenever it

higher levels some of Aregbesola's educational policies there is no disputing the fact that Osun under the leadership of Ogbeni Aregbesola has become a pace-setter as fas as policies and programmes that of lasting legacies are concerned.

We can only wish him complete success!

arises.

We must equally call on the electorate to go out peacefully and orderly to cast their vote for the candidate of their choice based on merit and competence by jettisoning inducements and primordial sentiments in order to engender the democracy system. Parents must admonish the youths to shun violence and refuse to be used as political thugs by unpatriotic politicians.

We wish to remind the media, local and international observers to respect the rules of engagement by being professional and neutral in the discharge of their responsibility.

As we go to the polls tomorrow, I wish all the contesting political parties and their candidates, the best of luck and the good people of Edo State, a free, fair and transparent exercise.

•NELSON EKUJIMI, Lagos.

OSUN DEFENDER Publisher

–

Moremi Publishing House Ltd.

Managing Editor

–

Kola Olabisi

Editor

–

Kayode Agbaje

Lagos Editor

–

Kola Odepeju

Production Editor

–

Pet-Kola Taiwo Ibitowa

Senior Reporter Senior Reporter

– –

Sola Jacobs Kazeem Mohammed

Magazine Editor

–

Niyi Olasinde

Reporter

–

Kehinde Ayantunji

Photographer Photographer

– –

Oluwagbemiga Adeniyi Olushola Aderinto

Admin. Manager

–

Murtala Agboola

Computer Operator – Computer Operator –

Lukman Ussein Mary Akintola

(0803-392-7286) (0803-388-0205) (08023191891)

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

All correspondence to the above mail address.

ISSN: 0794-8050 Telephone: 0803-392-7286, 08033880205 Website: www.osundefender.com/index.php e-mail: osundefender@yahoo.com

INTERVIEW

6

OSUN DEFENDER Friday, September 9, 2016

Osun No Longer A Rustic Environment - Baderinwa Adelani Baderinwa is a media aide to the first Interim National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande. Baderinwa was Akande’s Press Secretary when he was the Governor of Osun State between 1999 and 2003. He was appointed Senior Special Assistant to Governor Rauf Aregbesola on Information and Strategy/ Director, Media Monitoring in 2012 in his first term. In this interview with journalists, among which were OSUN DEFENDER reporter, Ismaeel Uthman, the Ikirun-born APC chieftain appraised the military and civilian administrations and governance since the creation of the state. Excerpts:

O

SDF: Osun State celebrated 25 years of its existence few days ago. What is your opinion about the development of the State of Osun in 25 years?

BADERINWA: The State of Osun has come a long way. It grew and developed far from where it was when it was created some 25 years ago. Let us say it is still far away from where the people expected it to be but it is surely not the same entity, Osun was carved out of Oyo State on August 27, 1991. While all parts of the state got some attention in terms of infrastructural growth, the fact of development is obvious in Osogbo, the state capital. Osogbo has attracted phenomenal population growth as well as infrastructural development, thus positively affecting social and economic life of the people. Most places hitherto not accessible, either due to lack of, or bad state of the road can now be reached with ease. New structures have sprung up in the state. Perhaps the cynosure of most eyes is the gigantic and magnificent State Secretariat. Everywhere you look, you see development. Of a fact, Osun is no longer that rustic environment.

New things have happened and are happening here in Osun.

OSDF: Putting each of the administrations that had governed the state since creation on a scale, which one will you say has performed most?

BADERINWA: Honestly, I would say that all of them have performed within the limits of their situations, abilities and resources. The Ajiborisa administration was in place for just four months and it set up the building of foundation for the growth of the state. The Senator Isiaka Adeleke administration started to build upon the foundation laid by Ajiborisa. He provided the basic needs by which smooth takeoff could be possible. He settled the migrating civil servants into available spaces and allocated resources as would be needed by departments, ministries and agencies. The June 12 political crisis cut short his tenure.

Then the military administrations tried their bests within their limits.

Commander Anthony Udofia and Colonel Anthony Obi were able to put the administration on the path of stability. It should not be forgotten that administration per se was not part of their training. Lt. Col Theophillus Bamgboye did his best too. He was able to commence the real development of Osogbo into a befitting state capital. He dared some taboos to ensure improvement in the outlook of Osogbo. He started the contracting of some real projects which fund and time did not permit him to see through. Then came Chief Bisi Akande. He was able to implement landmark projects that gave teeth to the statehood of Osun.

He completed and pay for projects

Some administrations have more landmark projects than the other and this is obvious in the earlier run down of performances by all the governments that had ruled in Osun.

You can make out the one you considered the best.

OSDF: You served in the Akande’s administration and you said people wondered at his loss. Some people were of the opinion that his fight with labour, Obas, his deputy etc contributed in no small measure to his ouster in 2003 election, do you agree?

ADERINWA: I don’t agree.

The simple reason is because I was part of it all and I know the essence of everything. It was mere wrong perception of the opposition that Chief Akande fought anybody at all. The truth was that Chief Akande as governor decided not to run affairs of Osun government as business as usual. It was a kind of sudden change from the usual way of running government that was introduced then.

Historically, there has not been anywhere that change of system was accepted without resistance by those affected, more so that lucre was involved. Chief Akande’s position on matters affecting some of the people mentioned was directly opposite to their own.

Meanwhile, Chief Akande’s position in general term was about life more abundant for all and not the selfish stance, which many represented. That was the issue in contention. If a cursory look is made into what he does as a governor, you will discover that he reached out to more people, as he carried out projects in manner that many people will benefit. For instance, there was a regulation that everything to be used in any contract must be bought in Osogbo, except those that could not be found here. So also was the fact that all artisans to work on any government project must be resident in Osun. Whereas, this was not so much so before then.

OSDF: Okay, what about the sacking of workers?

BADERINWA: The principle behind restructuring of Osun work force was basically to make the state better than it was met. It was inevitable. There were too many oddities in the system that called for sanitisation. Take for instance; there was a school with 64 teachers and 1074 pupils. It will surprise you to know that there was no single qualified teacher for English Language, Mathematics or any science subject amongst the 64.

Rather, there were nine Home Economics graduates; 10 graduates of Yoruba, eight were graduates of Physical Education and some other subjects as such. It is clear from this situation that there cannot be any appreciable progress in the education

B

•ADELANI

commenced by Colonel Bamgboye.

He constructed roads massively, both intra and inter-city. He ran free education and health services the way Obafemi Awolowo did. He attempted arresting rural urban drift through the rural integration programme, which saw to provision of modern housing schemes, water and rural electrifications in most rural areas. He paved the way for the release for use, Orisunmibare Shopping complex, the first ever in Osogbo by paying the contract sum of the project. He constructed, equipped and funded the state broadcasting corporation, OSBC. He completed the ongoing ten legislative quarters and built fifteen more to facilitate a solid foundation for the democratic governance. He touched the lives of the people of Osun generally. Prosperity within the limit of the state’s micro economy was visible. It was no wonder a surprise to many when Chief Akande was said to have lost his re-election bid.

Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola took over and had the honour of taking education in the state to another level. Oyinlola established a university for the state, not minding the controversy surrounding the establishment. He added to the growth he met on ground within the limit of his ability. Then, the actualiser came. Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola took over the mantle and did what he is well-known for; infrastructural development. He has done more in this regard than any other administrations before him.

Ogbeni’s being a star performer in this area cannot be otherwise, as he was a commissioner with midas touch in Lagos. His records in Lagos,

where there is much resources, may not be compared with what he is doing in Osun. Many who did not come to Osun since his ascendance have continued to speak of the remarkable and tremendous development that has come to the state capital, especially and the whole state in general. Ogbeni saw to construction and rehabilitation of ten kilometres of roads in the former 30 local government council areas and the Area Office. He is working assiduously to see that all roads leading to the state became not just motorable but dualised for maximum comfort of commuters.

OT a few of the roads under construction are less than 60% completed. He has widened and smoothen the road networks in Osogbo; Ilesa, Ile-Ife, Iwo and other places. Osun will enjoy the benefits of wonderfully-made bridges to serve the road users better. He is trying to ensure that there is conducive learning and teaching environment to compliment his desire for quality education for Osun pupils and students. Ogbeni’s aggression at environmental uplift cannot be over-emphasised. He dredged river beds all over to avoid flood disaster, which hitherto was perennial. There is landmark step in keeping the state clean, while urban renewal is being done systematically within the limits of available fund.

He has done more which time and space will not permit stating.

OSDF: So, who is the best?

BADERINWA: They are all the best. Like I said earlier, they all performed within the limits of their circumstances, world view and available resources. They have all contributed their quota to Osun.

N

•Continued on page 10

FEATURE

57

OSUN DEFENDER Friday, September 9, 2016

Osun And Its Investment In Education

The idea of education for development motivates Osun to prioritise education. Governor Aregbesola underscores this in the address he delivered at the opening of the Osogbo Government High School last week. In his words, “Education for us, therefore, is the path to development. We are 25 years now, but we are looking at the next 25 years and we want to create and determine the next 25 years through education.”

‘No nation goes bankrupt educating its people’ – Confucius.

HE epigraph to this piece by the Chinese philosopher, Confucius, speaks appositely to the significance of education in the development of a country. His view correctly implies that investment in education will always yield the highest dividends. If quality investment in education produces the highest dividends, it is incontestable that a country, which invests hugely and consistently, and substantially, and not symbolically, in education cannot become bankrupt. In any case, human beings remain the surest agencies of development. If their capacities are purposefully enriched, meaningfully enhanced, and consistently improved, they will creatively initiate workable ideas and contribute considerably in driving the multifarious engines of sustainable socio-economic development.

Education, for any society which privileges and prioritises it, becomes the substratum of its development which will always set it apart from those that do not invest in education.

This is the core lesson that the informative book, Why Nations Fail: The Origins of Power, Prosperity, and Poverty (2012), co-authored by Daron Acemoglu and James Robinson, persuasively teaches. According to the authors, consistent and hefty investments in education and the necessary infrastructure is one of the reasons why some countries are developed and prosperous while many others become unfortunate.

Access to educational facilities contributes greatly to enabling people move forward and become useful for self and society. No nation whose political and economic institutions are unviable can invest in education and provide motivation for the people to be educated.

It is against this backdrop that the inspiring efforts of the Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola Administration in reforming and investing in education in the State of Osun can be appreciated. The conviction of the Administration that education holds the key to the realisation of the allencompassing transformation it envisions for the state informs the undistracted attention it has accorded to educational development right from 2010 when it assumed office.

The Administration makes education the bedrock of the various policies it has designed and is executing to improve the existential condition of the people of the State.

The priority the Administration gives to the development of education in Osun has inspired many initiatives that have brought marked differences to the grooming of minds there. The blueprint that emerged from the Education Summit organised in the first year of its assumption of office provides useful direction for its drive to reposition education in the state. From huge investments in instructional materials and teaching aids, crucial changes in curricula, corrective restructuring of schools into Elementary, Middle, and High in conformity with

T

dilapidated buildings that were not healthy for modern-day poultry once stood.

The Osogbo Government High School is one of the 11 that have been completed. Of the 100 school buildings planned for the Elementary level, 14 have been completed, and 15 of the 50 for the Middle school have also been finished.

OR the State Government of Osun, the functional education the children of the state must receive has to take place within befitting structures, which have advanced facilities, are conducive for learning, and enhance human dignity. By embarking on these projects, the State Government is simply saying the culture of excellence that guides the affairs of standard private schools cannot be impossible for it to attain. The quality, sound education vouchsafed for the children has to take place within modern facilities. What exists in Osun, in terms of educational infrastructure development, is not symbolism but substance.

In spite of the financial constraint it has, Osun refuses to give up its walk on the path of educational development. It continues to invest in it because it is persuaded that doing so has many invaluable benefits and not bankruptcy.

About 12,000 teachers have been added to the already existing pool of teachers across the schools in the state. It is not just about physical infrastructure; the human infrastructural is also seriously taken into cognisance, for no educational system can rise above the quality of its teachers.

The idea of education for development motivates Osun to prioritise education. Governor Aregbesola underscores this in the address he delivered at the opening of the Osogbo Government High School last week. In his words, “Education for us, therefore, is the path to development. We are 25 years now, but we are looking at the next 25 years and we want to create and determine the next 25 years through education.”

That education, he adds, is the sort that sees to the full development of the personalities of the learners. “The overall aim”, he explained, “is to develop the new man intellectually, socially and morally. This new man is placed in the centre of society who views his own development as part of and for the development of society. This is a non-parasitic and non-oppressive man who views his existence in light of the growth of others; he views whatever is acquired to be subsumed in the overall interest of others. He is a man in himself and a man for society.”

In spite of the financial constraint it has, Osun refuses to give up its walk on the path of educational development. It continues to invest in it because it is persuaded that doing so has many invaluable benefits and not bankruptcy.

F

•AREGBESOLA

By ADEMOLA ADESOLA

international best practices in school management, to the construction of mega schools, the Administration manfully moves on to ensure that public schools in the State become virile emporiums of sustainable capacity building. In the last six years, remarkable successes have been recorded and rich lessons distilled from low points.

What stands out in the Administration’s unwavering pursuit of educational development in Osun is the humongous amounts it continues to invest in it. It does not consider any amount too prohibitive if the task is educational development. Like Aristotle, Governor Aregbesola understands that ‘[t[he roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet’.

Accordingly, the princely price of investment in education has to be paid for the grand prize of enduring socio-economic development.

Nothing can be more important than creating the right environment and emplacing the needed infrastructure for the building of human capacity, the agency and gateway of societal development.

For the State Government of Osun, the functional education the children of the state must receive has to take place within befitting structures, which have advanced facilities, are conducive for learning, and enhance human dignity. By embarking on these projects, the State Government is simply saying the culture of excellence that guides the affairs of standard private schools cannot be impossible for it to attain.

Clearly, this accounts for why Osun is still able to pluck new fruits of educational infrastructural development even in the face of the disruptive hurricane of cash crunch

sweeping furiously across the Nigerian federation. The notable reduction and desultoriness in cash flow have not discouraged Osun from going with its schools infrastructural development project.

On the first day of this September, the state commissioned the Osogbo Government High School in a memorable ceremony witnessed by President Muhammadu Buhari and many other dignitaries.

ONCEIVED and constructed in line with international standards, the building has the capacity to seat 3,000 students; it has 72 classrooms, each capable of sitting 49 students; with the capability to graduate 1,000 students annually. Its other facilities include six offices for study groups, six fully furnished laboratories, 60 toilets (30 apiece for boys and girls), one fully furnished science library, one fully furnished art library, one facility manager’s office, one bookshop, one sick bay, one bursar’s office, three furnished principals’ office, three general staff offices, one furnished senior principal’s office, one record storage, and one security shed/reception.

More so, it has an Olympic-sized football field, a seven-lane sprinting track for 100 metres and 400 metres, a pavilion and an outdoor basketball court that doubles as a tennis court.

It has parking space for 75 cars, and an examination hall to sit a minimum of 1000 students. This hall has a stage, office space, storage for documents, and 10 toilets for males and females respectively.

Students of Grades 10-12 (SSS IIII), between ages 15 to 17 years, will be using this school sited on a-10hectare land. The Aregbesola-led Administration has a tidied plan to build 20 mega High Schools across the state and in places where the old,

C

•Ademola is of the Features Unit, Bureau of Communication and Strategy, Government of the State of Osun.

•Culled from Premium Times.

PHOTOTALK

8

Preparation For Eid-el-Kabir Festival In the State of Osun.

•Ram buyers at Ifon-Orolu Market in Ifon, State of Osun.

•People buying food items for Eid-el-Osun festival at Igbona Market, Osogbo on Wednesday.

•Cloth sellers at Orisunmibare Market, Osogbo.

OSUN DEFENDER Friday, September 9, 2016

Photo: GBENGAADENIYI

PHOTOTALK

59

OSUN DEFENDER Friday, September 9, 2016

Grand Finale Of Campaign Rally Of All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship Candidate In Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, Last Tuesday.

•President Muhammadu Buhari acknowledging cheers from the crowd.

•President Buhari (3rd left), presenting Obaseki as APC governorship candidate in Edo (2nd left) and his runningmate, Honourable Philip Shuaibu (2nd right); Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole (right) and others.

Federal Executive Council Meeting In Abuja On Wednesday.

•President Muhammadu Buhari (right) and another dignitary.

INTERVIEW

10

OSUN DEFENDER Friday, September 9, 2016

Osun No Longer A Rustic Environment - Baderinwa •Contined from page 6

sector. Pupils were expectedly failing external examinations conducted by WAEC year-in, year-out. A government with focus to make things better will not allow such to continue. The absurdity in the civil service was typified by a situation where there were eleven typists attached to a type-writer. You can imagine such a waste of human resources and loss to government. It was the attempt to address these anomalies that set Chief Akande against workers. Don’t forget that those affected would not find it funny, even when they know that the situation was wrong.

OSDF: You are also part of Aregbesola government. Do you subscribe to the view that he has not achieved much?

BADERINWA: Yes am. And am proud to be, and of course, I will tell you straightaway that, that contention is the tale of ignorant or mischievous opposition members. It was an assumption from the pit of hell that makes up their souls. Aside these set of people, who are now nick-named wailing wailers, the real people of Osun know that there is a marked difference between Ogbeni’s government and others. As his drive at achieving great infrastructural development which can be seen, services provided by his government, and directly enjoyed by the people cannot be overemphasised. recollect the great flood that occurred in July 2009 in many towns and villages in Osun. Lives and properties were lost. Flooding was properly addressed through massive dredging of many river basins across the state. There has not been flood since 2011 when that was completed. The health programme of Aregbesola was taken, a notch higher than what Chief Akande did in his time. Ambulance services are provided for in different parts of the state to cater for the sick or accident victims, who needed quick attention.

This was aside the super free health services in different hospitals that has been upgraded in terms of structures and facilities. There is the O’YES programme, which re-orientate 40,000 Osun youths about work ethics and provide them basic allowances for two years each. There were ancillary advantages of O’YES programme such as O’YES TECH, modern agric training in Germany etc. A few disciplined ones were able to safe their stipends and establish small business by which they live. The O’REAP agricultural programme has been on with efforts at ensuring food sufficiency in the state. I spoke of road construction earlier. The mega model schools being constructed across the state are something else. You cannot but speak about the Opon Imo that has been accredited by UNESCO as good tool that can enhance easy learning; the free school feeding; the increase in running grants when there was still money; the training and re-training of moribund teachers at home and abroad, etc. Ogbeni’s administration has supported the old, feeble and weak with monthly stipends. He has improved the capacity of transport

I

outlawed visits to the palace by any member. Indeed, they made policy statement that any APC members found to have gone to the palace will be prevented from benefitting from the party.

OSDF: You mean they banned APC members from going to the palace and ready to punish anybody caught?

ADERINWA: They did. You can imagine the audacity of a biased leader who promotes cheating of followers. The most baffling was that these people are very much aware of the unquantifiable contributions of Akirun to the APC’s progress, not only in our council area but all over the state and beyond. You can imagine the mischievous machinations behind all of these. It was easy for them to allow a thieving chairman get away with his misdeed, while Akirun should be isolated because he gave justiciable ruling on the matter.

OSDF: Is it true that the palace of Akirun was attacked on the account of this matter?

BADERINWA: Yes, it was attacked. Indeed, Akirun was verbally assaulted, while the Olori was physically assaulted. It was a matter carried too far by the disgruntled elements, who have kept harassing everybody who does not belong to their clique but was found alone. The governor witnessed one of such brigandage in his attempt to make peace. Thank God, the reasonable and rationale group are more in number than them otherwise, they would try to do something more brutish. They also attacked and vandalised the APC secretariat at Oke-Afo for Ifelodun and Isale-Ikirun for Ifelodun North LCDA. Alhaji Kehinde Olamolu’s father’s house next to the party secretariat was vandalised. They stole two dozens of chairs, party flags and some other things at OkeAfo, while they took away the Public Address System at Isale-Ikirun.

OSDF: With all these, can we say the matter is irresolvable and or what is the way forward?

Baderinwa: It is resolvable and it will be resolved. The state secretariat of APC is aware of all these aberrations. The governor is aware. The Chairman of the Elders’ Council of the party is aware. Many party leaders are aware. They know the whole story and the truth of it.

It is certain that the State APC will intervene and I believe they will be on the side of truth. I believe they will not accept a verdict that gave a clean bill of health to a thieving party officer. I expect them to insist that kangaroo meeting must no longer be held to take decision for the party.

The party set up stakeholders’ forum in each council area, thus the state secretariat should insist that decisions should be arrived at through this forum. It will be important that the APC state secretariat to warn vandals within the party to desist from such irresponsible behaviour; let them know that it is criminal and do carry consequences. The APC must have peace.

B

•ADELANI

workers and other artisans, especially, vehicle mechanics who are made to undergo re-training at Bola Ige Mechatronics Institute. There are too many things that Aregbesola did that the failures in PDP would never see as achievements. But I tell you something, those who enjoyed those dividends of democracy are appreciative and will never forget.

The wailing wailers espoused their foolishness more than that ahead of 2014 governorship election but real people who have benefitted directly stood their ground, even in the face irresponsible deployment of security to muzzle them and rig the election.

Ogbeni won handsomely. He would always win.

SDF: But it is been said that APC members are unhappy with the governor because they are not patronised. As a chieftain of the party, what is the true situation?

BADERINWA: Osun APC ti wapa ju! Honestly our people love Governor Aregbesola beyond the antics of the opposition. I dare say that not many governors of whatever party has patronised his members as Ogbeni has done when he had the resources. I firmly believe that our party members are not insensitive to the fact that the governor is presently caught up with lack of resources to run government. I am sure they are sympathetic with him and would manage with the situation. Were you at the launch of Osogbo High School?

You need to see the heavy turnout and unalloyed show of love to the governor and the President by the party men and town people. Can that match the jaundiced assumption of the wailing wailers? Open your eyes, my brother.

OSDF: You are an APC chieftain from Ifelodun LG. There is a crisis rocking the party in Ifelodun, what is the true position?

BADERINWA: Whatever you heard about APC in Ifelodun is a

O

storm in a tea cup. It will soon settle down.

Truly, there is misunderstanding amongst us but it would soon get resolved. It is about cheating and oppression in the party typified by the attitude of some leaders. While some leaders and members are resisting the perennial questionable leadership style which promotes crookedness, a few members who hope to gain from the belligerence of the leaders are running after them.

T all started when, as its usual with the leaders, decided to take side with a ward chairman that was alleged of gluttony, avarice and greed. The party at the said ward was given six bags of rice for sharing. But the ward chairman appropriated it.

He was asked by members to bring their rice for sharing but was recalcitrant about. For close to six months, the said chairman refused to bring the rice. Members got angry and gave him ultimatum to either bring the rice or vacate the post of ward chairman. When the leaders heard about it, rather than let justice prevail, they sided with the alleged culprit. They asked him to continue staying and those members should forgo the rice. Members rejected the leaders’ jaundiced decision and insisted that their position remains: that is; let the chairman return the rice and remain or leave and keep the rice. It was at this point that leaders approached the Akirun, whom they considered as having sufficient influence on our party. When the disputants made their cases to Akirun, he gave justice as normal human beings would expect. This dispassionate disposition of Akirun irked the so-called leaders who expected him to take sides with them.

Soon, members and some leaders who felt cheated decided to seek solace in Akirun. After all, Akirun had always been there for the whole party. When the recalcitrant leaders saw this, they became jittery and

I

OPINION

5 11

OSUN DEFENDER Friday, September 9, 2016

Fighting Criminality With Illegality Equals Injustice

I

have a soft spot for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) mainly because I was present at its birth. Nigeria had transited from long years of unaccountable military regimes that made little distinction between the national purse and private pockets. So, corruption was rampant when the civilian administration of President Olusegun Obasanjo came into office in 1999. Following local and international pressures, the administration sought to fight corruption with specialized agencies. To set these up, stakeholders were invited to meetings which I attended as the representative of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

However, the EFFC was a rascally child using uncomely methods like breaking down doors, finding suspects guilty by media trials, disregarding court orders and making outlandish claims like stating before the Senate that 31 of the serving 36 governors were corrupt, but having little to show after the men left office and no longer had immunity. Worse still, the body swarm comfortably in political waters; engineering the removal of political office holders including elected governors. The worst case, was using six Plateau State legislators it had captured, to impeach Governor Joshua Dariye, when the constitutional number required was a minimum sixteen.

The EFFC began operating like a weather forecast station issuing intermittent statements about people arrested, stages of investigation or even its intentions. It chairmen who ordinarily were public servants; in fact, serving police officers – except Mrs. Farida Mzamber Waziri, a retired police officer became Czars. The agency has been severally accused of doing the bidding of whoever is in power and restricting its investigative prowess to those in opposition. While there is a lot of truth in this, personally, I think it is good for the country; if even a few looters are brought to book, that will send a strong message that people will be held to account even after leaving power. I must also admit that the EFFC has brought some bites into the anti-corruption war; we have witnessed governors, bank chief executives and even an Inspector General of Police prosecuted and convicted. But this is no excuse to fight criminality with illegality. I

counsel in the trial of former Delta State governor, James Ibori at the Federal High Court, Asaba, a case which EFCC lost in questionable circumstances.”

Mahmoud denied he was counsel.

In its usual style of making outlandish and unsubstantiated claims, the commission claimed to have “recorded more convictions in the last one year than all the states and federal ministries of justices combined.”

The EFCC concluded that the NBA’s “ current campaign appears to be self-serving (and) intended to create a cabal of untouchables, who can be investigated but may never be prosecuted.”

HE arrogance of the EFCC knows no bounds; it sees itself as a religion; if you disagree with it, you must be a sinner deserving to be publicly chastised with scorpions. For it, suggestions that it be reformed can only be made by ‘rogues’ and “vultures” Yet, it is a public institution funded by the people; so how can it seek to outlaw debates?

The EFCC might have thought that it will get away with its usual rascality; it might not have bargained for the reaction of Mahmoud, the NBA and the general public, who see nothing wrong in a debate on the status of a public institution. And the EFCC is not faring well in the ensuing debate.

Mahmoud’s suggestion reminds me of the 1975 case of then Head of State, General Murtala Mohammed, who was accused of corruption by University of Lagos Law lecturer, Dr. Obarogie Ohonbamu.

Understandably, Mohammed, his government and security agencies were livid and thought Ohonbamu must be jailed. But the then Director of Public Prosecution in Lagos State, Akintola Olufemi Ejiwunmi, later of the Supreme Court, thought there should be no prosecution. A shocked Murtala sent for Ejiwunmi, who explained that in case of prosecution, Ohonbamu’s lawyer will ask him to come to court where he will have no immunity against a potentially unfriendly cross-examination.

As a journalist, I believe that even the best writers need an editor; a brilliant EFCC needs an independent agency to decide whether based on the facts before it, prosecution is necessary. I rest my case.

T

•MAGU

By OWEI LAKEMFA

believe public agencies like the EFCC and Directorate of State Security (DSS) can be effective, even if they employ legal and civilized procedures. This will be in line with the EFCC’s vision of being “An agency operating to best international standards…”

Unfortunately, at 13, the EFCC has not shed its toga of rascality and know-it-all attitude. Nothing typifies this better than its uncultured response to the inaugural speech by the President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Abubakar Balarabe Mahmoud. I had known Mahmoud in the early ‘80s as a quiet, soft-spoken gentleman, who tries to convince on the basis of logic, rather than be pedantic and flamboyant like some of his colleagues. He and many of us in our generation had admiration for the late Alao AkaBashorun, the principled NBA President, who brought activism to the Bar. Aka-Bashorun believed that law must serve the people and that service to the citizenry is the basis of legitimacy for any government. I was not surprised that Mahmoud in his inaugural speech emphasized some of these themes such a “A clean judiciary that will deliver consistent and predictable outcomes” and “No to corruption, whether in the Executive, Legislative or Judicial branch of government.” He warned that “for the legal profession in Nigerian, it can no

longer be business as usual,” and that “there cannot be rich lawyers in a poor country” IS message that “the fight against corruption can only be achieved, if we do so within the frame work of the rule of law and by strong institutions,” did not seem appealing to the FFCC, a body which he commended for its modest achievements. His suggestion that the EFCC be reformed by limiting it to an investigative agency, while “the conduct of the prosecution must be by an independent highly resourced prosecution agency,” infuriated the EFCC. Rather than respond to Mahmoud’s arguments, the agency resorted to insults.

The en-fant terrible retorted that “ A Bar populated or directed by people perceived to be rogues and vultures cannot play the role of priests in the temple of justice.”

It accused the NBA President of being part of “ a cleverly disguised campaign by powerful forces that are uncomfortable with the reinvigorated anti-graft campaign of the EFCC and are hell-bent on emasculating the agency by stripping it of powers to prosecute with the lame excuse that an agency that investigates cannot also prosecute.”

In a little veiled indictment of Mahmoud for alleged corruption, the EFCC accused him of being the “Federation’s

H

HEALTH

12

OSUN DEFENDER Friday, September 9, 2016

The Best Natural Remedies For Uterine Fibroids U

TERINE fibroids are noncancerous tumors of the uterus.

Uterine fibroids are also known as leiomyomata, myomas or uterine polyps. Uterine fibroids grow within the muscles of the uterus, on the outside of the uterus, hang in the uterine cavity or very rarely form within the cervix. They can range in size from microscopic to several inches in diameter. Uterine fibroids form in the childbearing years of a woman’s life. There may be just one fibroid or many, with differing locations.

Uterine fibroids are rarely a cause for concern, but when they become too large, or there are many present, they may become a problem.

Types of Uterine Fibroids Submucosal: grow in the innermost layer of the uterus Intramural: grow in the middle layer of the uterus Subserosal: grow in the outer wall of the uterus Pedunculated: attached to a stalk either outside of the uterus or within the uterine cavity Cervical: in the cervical tissue Interligamentous: between the uterine broad ligaments Causes of Uterine Fibroids Though a large percentage of women suffer from uterine fibroids, doctors are actually unsure of what causes them to occur. What they do know however, is that estrogen and progesterone contribute to the growth of the fibroids.

Estrogen and progesterone are at their highest levels during a woman’s childbearing years, this is why uterine fibroids are thought to develop during this time. Normally, after a woman goes through menopause her body produces lower levels of estrogen and progesterone causing the fibroids to begin to shrink and any associated symptoms, such as pain and pressure to subside.

Uterine fibroids are hormone dependent. They develop during the hormonally active years and decline in menopause. Fibroid tissue has a higher amount of estrogen and progesterone receptors.

Fibroid tissue is hypersensitive to estrogen, but does not have the capacity to regulate estrogen response, this is why they can grow to become quite large. Other hormones play a role in the growth of uterine fibroids as well, including prolactin, parathyroid hormone, insulin growth factor, and pituitary growth hormone.

Fibroids are two to three times more likely to develop in African American women compared to any other ethnicity.

Factors that May Increase Fibroid Development An increase in lifetime exposure to estrogen: There are many factors that increase a woman’s lifetime exposure to estrogen.

More than at any other time in history, women are exposed to more estrogen.

This increased exposure can contribute to a wide variety of reproductive health problems including the development of uterine fibroids. The following factors increase a woman’s lifetime exposure to estrogen: · Early menarche – the longer a woman has her menstrual cycle, the longer estrogen levels are elevated · Fewer pregnancies – many women today are restricting how many children they are having or are not having children at all, which increases their total exposure to estrogen · High body fat content – body fat produces and stores estrogen; the more body fat a woman has the more estrogen · Exposure to xenoestrogens – plastics, pesticides, herbicides, synthetic hormones in both meat and dairy products, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) including oral contraceptives (birth control) containing synthetic estrogen · Poor estrogen metabolism – some women’s bodies have a harder time

or natural therapies you continue to suffer from uterine fibroids, it may be time to seriously consider surgical options. Doctors nor natural healthcare practitioners have been able to find an exact solution for getting rid of uterine fibroids permanently. Even after surgery uterine fibroids may grow again, or new ones may form. This is why step 1 under our Natural Therapies guide below is extremely important. It is vital to reduce exposure to xenohormones and continue to eat well to keep estrogen levels in balance.

Natural Therapy Plan for Uterine Fibroids Step 1: Cleanse, reduce exposure to xenoestrogens, promote healthy estrogen metabolism Fertility Cleansing HE best way to begin any natural fertility plan would be to do a Fertility Cleanse. A fertility cleanse encourages the liver to cleanse the body of toxins and excess hormones. It also supports the uterus to cleanse itself of old stagnant blood and increases circulation to the uterus while tonifying the uterine tissues.

Reduce Exposure to Xenohormones Exposure to certain environmental toxins may contribute to the development of uterine fibroids.

Xenoestrogens are a subclass of endocrine disruptors. Endocrine disruptors, also known as xenohormones, are human-made chemicals. These chemicals have the ability to interfere with the natural functions and development of our bodies. The main function of the endocrine system is to serve as our body’s message center. Hormones deliver messages, the endocrine system coordinates hormones.

Xenoestrogens have the ability to bind to our estrogen receptor sites. This is particularly concerning for women with uterine fibroids. This is because fibroid tissue is hypersensitive to estrogen, it contains a high amount of estrogen receptors, this is why they can grow to become quite large. Exposure to xenoestrogens can fuel uterine fibroid growth.

Ways to Avoid Xenohormones: · Eat organic foods · Avoid exposure to pesticides, herbicides and synthetic fertilizers · Use natural feminine care products · Use organic, natural body care products, including makeup · Avoid food preservatives and dyes · Use low VOC paints · Use recycled unbleached paper products · Use non-chlorinated oxygen based bleach in the laundry · Avoid plastics Known Xenoestrogens to Avoid: · Atrazine (weed killer) · Butylated hydroxyanisole known as BHA (food preservative) · 4-Methylbenzylidene camphor known as 4-MBC (sunscreen lotions) · Erythrosine, FD&C Red No. 3, (food dye) · Bisphenol A (found in polycarbonate plastic and epoxy resin) · Ethinylestradiol (common in oral contraceptive pills, this is released into the environment as a xenoestrogen through the urine and feces of women who use this) · Heptachlor and dieldrin, DDT (insecticides) Diet Tips for Reducing Uterine Fibroids Without eating a whole food diet, the body will not respond to herbs, supplements or natural therapies as well. We suggest eating a nutrient dense whole food fertility diet. This way of eating will create a foundation for a healthy, properly functioning body.

T

removing and metabolizing excess estrogen In addition to exposure to estrogen the following factors may also play a role in the development of uterine fibroids: · Hypertension · Infection complications from IUD use · Perineal talc use · Anovulatory cycles · Endometrial hyperplasia (common in women with PCOS) Symptoms of Uterine Fibroids While many women will never even know that they have uterine fibroids, because the condition often exhibits no symptoms, there are some women that will experience certain effects from the fibroid’s presence. Symptoms of uterine fibroids include: · A sensation of fullness or pressure in the abdominal area · Excessive bleeding during menstruation · Excessive length of menstruation · Extreme cramping during menstruation · Lower back pain · Painful intercourse · A frequent urge to urinate Uterine Fibroids May Negatively Impact Conception and Pregnancy IBROIDS are thought to be the cause of infertility in 2%-10% of infertility cases. Reports have shown uterine fibroids may be responsible for the following fertility, conception and pregnancy problems: · Interference with implantation of the ovum · Compressing the fallopian tubes, preventing conception · Anovulatory cycles · Abnormal uterine blood flow, hindering movement of sperm to ova · Miscarriage · Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) · Premature rupture of the membranes · Contributing to retained placenta after birth · A postpartum hemorrhage · An abnormal labor Not all women with uterine fibroids will experience these kinds of troubles and many go on to have healthy pregnancies even with uterine fibroids present. Because there are risks to your fertility and possibly pregnancy, it is best to work to reduce fibroid growth, prevent formation of new fibroids and to maintain healthy lifestyle choices to continue working to bring about the best possible uterine health.

Medical Treatment for Uterine Fibroids In many cases, the effects of uterine fibroids are so minor that often these women use a general over-the-counter pain medicine to treat any cramping or pain associated with the fibroid tumors.

Since the tumors can also cause

F

excessive menstrual bleeding, which can lead to anemia, an iron supplement is recommended if excessive bleeding is occurring.

In the medical world, the only “successful” treatment for uterine fibroids is removal. I say successful lightly, especially in the case of removal of the uterine fibroids alone, as new ones can develop post-surgery and any remaining parts of older fibroids can begin to grow back. There are four ways in which doctors aim to remove uterine fibroids: Myomectomy myomectomy can help to remove the existing tumors that you have, but it will not prevent the tumors from growing back (only lifestyle changes can help to balance the body and promote hormonal balance).

However, this method of uterine fibroid removal is the best of the two surgery choices for those women that are still wanting to conceive a child.

Hysterectomy This surgical procedure removes the uterus completely. With a hysterectomy, you can guarantee that the tumors will not grow back. Unfortunately, there are many other side effects that can occur from a hysterectomy including early menopause, an increased risk of osteoporosis and of course, the inability to become pregnant. Approximately 17% of hysterectomies performed in the United States are due to uterine fibroids.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization Another procedure that is being used for treating uterine fibroids is uterine fibroid embolization. This method of treatment has proven effective at shrinking fibroids or destroying them completely, however, it is not without side effects. This treatment should not be used by those women that are wanting to become pregnant, since it is known to throw the body into early menopause and can cause infertility.

ExAblate – Focused Ultrasound Therapy (MRgFUS) A relatively new way to eliminate uterine fibroids is through a noninvasive technique using high doses of focused ultrasound waves (HIFU). This procedure destroys the uterine fibroids without damaging the surrounding uterine tissue. As an outpatient procedure, doctors perform ExAblate in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner, which allows the doctor to “see” inside of the body and target the uterine fibroids with HIFU. Because ExAblate is a newer procedure, it is not available everywhere, it is only available in select countries and states in the U.S. In addition, not all health insurance plans cover MRgFUS. To learn more, please visit www.uterinefibroids.org.

Uterine fibroids can be quite hard to treat naturally or through hormonal medications prescribed by doctors. If after trying either hormonal medications

A

•To be continued.

FEATURE

51 3

OSUN DEFENDER Friday, September 9, 2016

Remembering The Ad-Hoc Conference

M

R. Lee Kuan Yew(19232015) was the first Prime Minister of Singapore and he governed Singapore from 19591990. In January 1966, he visited Nigeria as part of the Commonwealth delegation to discuss Rhodesia unilateral declarations of independence.

Rhodesia is now called Zimbabwe.

He stayed in Lagos like all the Commonwealth leaders for three days. It was after their departure that Nigeria’s Prime Minister Alhaji Tafawa Balewa was assassinated.

His views on Nigeria was published in 2000 in a 729 page book titled ’FROM THIRD WORLD TO FIRST’ which I am sure many Nigerians have read. On page 352 of that book, he described Nigerians as ‘different people playing to a different set of rules’.

On page 357 of that same book, he said Nigeria’s ‘tribal loyalties were stronger than their sense of common nationhood’. To most of us, Mr. Yew’s verdict on Nigeria is nothing new. This month is fifty years of the anniversary of the adhoc constitutional conference in Nigeria. The conference was summoned by the then Lt-Col. Yakubu Gowon less than sixty-five days after he took over power. The conference met between September 12 and 28 and again between October 28 and November 4, 1966.

At that time there were four regions in Nigeria, mainly North, Mid-Western,West and Eastern Region. No delegation from the East attended the second session of the conference because of the political situation at that time.

Sixteen major issues were discussed at that conference. They were— Form of government and component units, Head of state, Central government, Central legislature, Judiciary, Central civil service, Finance(power to raise revenue, the allocation of revenue and national debt), Defence, Police, External affairs, Immigration and emigration, Banking, currency,monetary policy,external loans, Transport and communications, Higher Education, Concurrent powers and Planning(including the equitable distributions of capital investment).

The Northern delegation included Sir Kahim Ibrahim, Alhaji Inua Wada, Mallam Aminu Kano, Chief Joseph Sawuan Tarka, Alhaji Abdul Razak and Chief Josiah Sunday Olawoyin. The Lagos delegation included Alhaji Femi Okunnu and Alhaji Lateef Jakande. The Eastern delegation was led by Professor Eni Njoku.

Other members from the East include Chief C. C. Mojekwu, Chief E. Eyo and Chief Matthew Mbu. The Midwest delegation was led by Chief Anthony Enahoro, Dr. Mudiaga Oge was part of the Midwest delegation. The Western delegation was led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo and it included Professor Hezekiah Oluwasannmi assisted by Professors Ayo Ogunseye, SamAluko and Akin Mabogunje.

•GOWON

By ERIC TENIOLA

The following were proposals of each region as it affects the form of government and component unit— EAST: An association of the existing regions, with a right to secede. Opposed to the creation of new states on three grounds: (a) inadequate time:’ will involve a long-drawn-out process of inquiries, commissions and plebiscites, taking up many months or even some years, which we cannot afford under the present crises’ (b) entails a strong central government: ’not in the interest of harmony and peace of the country to have a strong central government. The splitting up of the country into new states will automatically have the effect of transferring functions, which the smaller states cannot be expected to execute with their limited resources.

HIS would, once again, engender inter-regional rivalry and political warfare to control the centre(c) fails to satisfy all minorities: it is impossible to devise any political arrangement, which will be devoid of minority problems….these problems can best be contained and satisfied within larger regional units’. The points raised above notwithstanding, it should be provided in the future constitution of the country that any region can agree to split into more states, which may be accepted into the future Nigerian association on equal terms, as the existing region, if the people of such an existing region and the areas concerned so desire…the initiative for the creation must come from the region within which the state is to be created.

MID-WEST: A Federation of the existing region, Lagos continuing as

T

Federal Territory or becoming a Region. N.B. HE Memorandum considered a redrawing of the constituent units desirable and set out the following criteria: ethnic, linguistic, and cultural affinity or homogeneity, historical association (e.g. Hausa/Fulani, Efik/Ibibio), viability of states both absolutely and relatively, geographical contiguity, comparability in size, reciprocal self-determination (i.e. not only should each minority group be given the opportunity to determine its future but also a majority group must be given the opportunity to determine whether it is willing to associate with a minority seeking such association.

On the basis of these criteria, twelve states might be created (4 in the North, 2 in the West, 4 in the East, the Mid-West, and Lagos).

Although desirable, such a rearrangement was considered impracticable in the prevailing circumstances.

NORTH: (i) Original proposal. A Union or Association of the existing Regions, ’and such other states as may be formed subsequently’, with a ‘right to secede completely and unilateral’.

The ‘right of self-determination of all people in the country must be accepted and a referendum or plebiscite shall be the method through which the wishes of the people concerned shall be ascertained. These rights include the right of any state within the country to secede. But the implementation of these principles shall not delay the determination of the future of Nigeria. All necessary guarantees shall, however, be written in the future constitution to establish the right of self-determination by any section.’

T

(ii) Revised proposal. A Federation with an ‘effective Federal Government’. The abovementioned method of creating new states was to be ‘discussed and formally adopted’.’ Grave doubts about the wisdom of creating states based on “ethnic and linguistic affinities”. In any arrangement based on this principle, there are bound to be large numbers of small pockets of minor ethnic and linguistic groups, who will necessarily find themselves grouped uncomfortably with the larger and dominant ethnic groups.

Whilst in the past, such tiny tribes were undisturbed within larger units not based on tongues, they are most likely to develop genuine fears of tribal domination in any political arrangement based on the principle of language. Most of the smaller ethnic and linguistic communities have co-existed peacefully without any ill-feelings towards their bigger neighbour only because they and their neighbours belong to a larger political entity’.

N the exercise of ascertaining the wishes of the people for the creation of states, as well as the actual creation of states, no region except the Mid-West should be left out of the operation.’

WEST: (i) Original proposal. (a) First alternative: A Federation with ‘the immediate creation of more states (including a Lagos State) based on ethnic and linguistic affinities, account being taken also of territorial contiguity and economic viability’. Also ‘clearcut and less-cumbersome provision for the creation of additional states in the future under conditions, which should be clearly set out in the Constitution’. (b) Second alternative: A ‘Commonwealth comprising the existing regions and such other regions as may be consequently created, with Lagos forming part of the present Western Nigeria’.

Each state should have a right unilaterally to secede… at any time of its own choice.’ (ii) Revised proposal. A Federation; ’the creation of more states (including a Lagos State) based on ethnic and linguistic affinities, account being taken also of territorial contiguity and economic viability’ was’ strongly recommended’. ’In the event of states not being created, Lagos shall form part of the Western Region.’

On November 30, 1966, Lt. Col. Gowon adjourned the conference and disclosed that ’they had run into difficulties, which made it impossible for them to meet.’

It was the failure of the conference that led to the Aburi meeting in Ghana.

Dr. Mudiaga Oje told me in 1977 that if the adhoc conference had succeeded, the civil war could have been avoided. Suffice it to say that the issues raised at that conference are still relevant till today.

I

•Eric, a former director at the presidency, stays in Lagos.

14

OSUN DEFENDER Friday, September 9, 2016

Job Vacancies In Nigeria Computer Engineer/Programmers · Lagos, Market Related · Job Type: Permanent · Sector: Technology · Posted by Hot Jobs on Wednesday, September 7, 2016 · Reference: 206575 Job Details Employer: Hot Jobs Our client, A reputable Agro-allied industry is seeking qualified candidates to apply for the vacant position Responsibilities: · Confirms project requirements by reviewing program objective, input data, and output requirements with analyst, supervisor, and client. · Arranges project requirements in programming sequence by analyzing requirements; preparing a work flow chart and diagram using knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, programming language, and logic. · Encodes project requirements by converting work flow information into computer language. · Programs the computer by entering coded information. · Confirms program operation by conducting tests; modifying program sequence and/or codes. · Prepares reference for users by writing operating instructions. · Maintains historical records by documenting program development and revisions. · Maintains client confidence and protects operations by keeping information confidential. · Ensures operation of equipment by following manufacturer’s instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions; calling for repairs; evaluating new equipment and techniques. · Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies. · Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed.

Candidate Requirements · Degree in Computer Engineering with 2 years experience is required · General Programming Skills, Analyzing Information , Problem Solving, Software Algorithm Design, Software Performance Tuning, Attention to Detail, Software Design, Software Debugging, Software Development Fundamentals, Software Documentation, Software Testing Apply before Thursday, October 6, 2016 - 30 Days left …………………end……………………..

Environmental Health Practitioners · Lagos, Market Related · Job Type: Permanent · Sector: Health, Fitness & Beauty · Posted by Hot Jobs on Wednesday, September 7, 2016 · Reference: 206563 Job Details Employer: Hot Jobs Our client, A reputable Agro-allied industry is seeking qualified candidates to apply for the vacant position Responsibilities: · carrying out routine or unplanned visits and inspections to ensure compliance with health and safety legislation and taking action to improve conditions; · providing advice and assistance to householders and businesses; · taking photos, producing drawings, removing samples and conducting interviews as part of the inspection process; · investigating complaints from the general public; · carrying out food hygiene and food standards inspections; · investigating accidents at work and complaints about poor standards of health and safety, as well as identifying areas of negligence; · investigating outbreaks of infectious disease and preventing it spreading any further; · taking water samples to maintain and improve standards in public swimming and bathing areas as well as private water supplies; · monitoring radiation activity, taking action when safety levels have been exceeded; · ensuring the health and welfare of animal livestock on farms and other premises, as well as during transportation; · issuing licences for pet shops and other animal-related businesses; · advising on planning and licensing applications; · monitoring levels of noise, air, land and water pollution; · giving talks at public enquiries, meetings and exhibitions, as well as ensuring compliance through education, advice and enforcement; · taking enforcement action, initiating legal proceedings, preparing and giving evidence in court; · advising on health and safety issues in relation to new buildings and developments; · arranging for the removal of abandoned vehicles and refuse.

Candidate Requirements · Degree in environmental health with 5 years experience is required · excellent communication skills, both written and oral; · confidence in dealing with the public; · report-writing skills; · a strong scientific ability and technical understanding; · assertiveness and diplomacy skills, being sensitive to other people’s views; · the ability to work to tight deadlines and under pressure; · good decision-making skills; · the ability to work independently and as a member of a team; · a methodical, careful approach to gathering facts and assessing evidence; · time management and organisational skills, as well as the ability to manage your own workload; · self-motivation; · a flexible approach to work; · IT skills.

Apply before Thursday, October 6, 2016 - 30 Days left …………………..end………………………

Administrative Officer · Kwara, Market Related · Job Type: Permanent · Sector: Admin · Posted by Wole Kajola & Associates on Wednesday, September 7, 2016 · Reference: 206562 Job Details Employer: Wole Kajola & Associates Wole Kajola & Associates is a qualified and experienced firm of Estate Surveyors and Valuers registered under the Companies and Allied Matters Decree of 1990, Serving Industry, Commerce, Government and Individuals, Organizations or Groups. We are recruiting to fill the position.

Candidate Requirements · BSc or HND in management and Business administration with minimum of 2 years work experience. · Must be fluent in both written and spoken English. · Must also have good computer skills (ICT) Apply before Friday, September 30, 2016 - 24 Days left …………………..end……………………..

Customer Engagement Officer · Lagos, Market Related · Job Type: Permanent · Sector: Admin · Posted on Wednesday, September 7, 2016 · Reference: 206552 Job Details We are a fast growing business consulting and marketing company involved in business analysis, research and development, marketing and recruitment. We are currently recruiting to fill this position.Responsibilities · Solve complex single subject issues that impact customer loyalty, satisfaction, and/or perception of quality. · Work closely with our field operations team to address and resolve local issues. · Drive and enforce policy around the engagement strategy with regards to responding to

customer concerns brought up in social media, including Twitter and other sources. · Drive favorable word of mouth and engagement in online social media and offline channels that ultimately helps our members receive the highest quality experience. · Serve as the highly visible front-line ambassador for members in owned social channels. · Defuse and move all customer service issues offline.

Candidate Requirements · B.Sc. required with 3-5 years experience in managing social media platforms, media trafficking, and strategic digital planning. · Strong curiosity and willingness to learn evolving strategies and trends in social media business models. · Strong analytical/quantitative, organizational and time management skills and strong research skills. · Ability to effectively multi-task and work seamlessly with cross-functional teams in a deadline driven environment. · Demonstrated ability to think creatively, identify and resolve problems. · Attentive to detail and emphasis on strict quality control to ensure integrity of work.

Apply before Saturday, October 15, 2016 - 39 Days left …………………….end……………………….

Business Controller · Lagos, Market Related · Job Type: Permanent · Sector: Business Management · Posted on Wednesday, September 7, 2016 · Reference: 206531 Job Details We are a fast growing business consulting and marketing company involved in business analysis, research and development, marketing and recruitment. We are currently recruiting to fill this position.Responsibilities · Ensure accuracy of reported financial results and conformity with generally accepted accounting principles and best practices · Assist in formulating the company’s future direction and supporting tactical initiatives · Prepare annual budget and quarterly forecasts · Issue client invoices, process payroll, and pay suppliers · Ensure prompt collection of receivables · Support contract development and administration · Prepare monthly customer activity reports Candidate Requirements · Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or business administration, or equivalent business experience and 6+ years of progressively responsible experience · Knowledge of office management systems and procedures · Excellent time management skills and ability to multi-task and prioritize work · Attention to detail and problem solving skills · Excellent written and verbal communication skills · Strong organizational and planning skills Apply before Saturday, October 15, 2016 - 39 Days left …………………….end……………………

Contract Administrator · Lagos, Market Related · Job Type: Permanent · Sector: Finance · Posted on Wednesday, September 7, 2016 · Reference: 206541 Job Details We are a fast growing business consulting and marketing company involved in business analysis, research and development, marketing and recruitment. We are currently recruiting to fill this position.Responsibilities · Serve as the primary contact between customers and company during all contractual activities. · Review customer terms and conditions received with requests for quotation. · Provide recommendations relating to any exceptions or items of concern or caution and contributes to their negotiation. · Perform customer service interface activities. · Contribute to performance related to key metrics. · Examine contracts for material, services, price, performance requirements and delivery schedules to insure completeness and accuracy.

Candidate Requirements · University degree in Business Administration or Marketing. · 5 years of directly-related Contracts Administration/Management prior experience, preferably in a manufacturing environment. · Target driven. · Excellent communications skills.

Apply before Saturday, October 15, 2016 - 39 Days left ………………………..end……………………………

Facility Project Manager · Lagos, Market Related · Job Type: Permanent · Sector: Admin · Posted by WTS Energy on Wednesday, September 7, 2016 · Reference: 206542 Job Details Employer: WTS Energy WTS Energy is the leading Consultant/Manpower Supply company to the international Oil, Gas and Energy industry. We supply Consultants to the Projects and Operations of our Clients. We also perform Outsourcing Services like Project Recruitment Campaigns and Workforce Management in Oil and Gas regions around the world.

We operate globally with offices in 16 countries, supplying the International Oil, Gas and Energy industry with professional personnel. We offer hands on support to our consultants in every region in which they work. We provide the best people to Upstream, Midstream and Downstream projects and operations. We serve our Clients and Consultants based on trust, high ethical standards and consistent quality of service.

We are recruiting to fill this position Job Description · Assume Accountability for overall project management, including project target cost and target schedule for both the onshore gas processing facility and offshore gathering facility. · Evaluate various technologies of building a modular processing facility. · Work with the engineering contractor to delete the stick build facility from the overall scope of the tender package. · Develop PEP for the design and installation of the Gas Facility Modular Facility. · Work with EIL review and approve design a deliverables for the offshore gas gathering facilities, including the new build platform and its equipment. · Assist Project Engineer in developing a class 1 estimate by providing project constructability options. · Review and verify proposed project goals and objectives. · Assist in preparation of PS Level 1 project schedule · Manage development of the sign-off on all project cost estimates. · Assist with Contract Review. · Assist with review of tenders and recommend best program based on technical competence. · Manage development of Project Execution Plan (PEP) during phase 1-3 · Manage overall development program, phase 3 · Monitor EIL and Modular Gas Plant contractor in performing contractual work. · Assist Construction Manager to evaluate and recommend best constructability option. · Assume responsibility for modular plan commissioning.

Candidate Requirements · Bachelor’s Degree · 20+ years of experience in modular Gas Plant Design & Construction Apply before Monday, November 7, 2016 - 62 Days left ………………………….end……………………………..

You can subscribe JobRSN Vacancies in Nigeria, Jobs in Nigeria via your e-mail: www.jobszilla.ng •Cullledto from

SPORTS

51 5

OSUN DEFENDER Friday, September 9, 2016

Klopp Does It His Way As Liverpool Fans Await Results Without Big Spending A lot of Liverpool supporters expressed dissatisfaction with the club’s transfer business during the summer. Boss Jurgen Klopp remained steadfast, though he could hardly be unaware of some of the criticism.

Once Sep. 1 had come Klopp has given a and gone, there was no number of interviews going back and the next recently, explaining four months will either why he took the justify supporters’ Liverpool job in the concerns or condemn first place. The latest, them as premature. published last

Saturday, included a memorable statement that encapsulated what the German is trying to achieve at Anfield.

“I love this game because it is a team game; trust, faith and togetherness,” he said.

Stirring words, but is that enough? Has the game moved on?

•Jose Mourinho's reputation as a defensive wizard has been reinforced in the 2016-17 season to date.

Morata Vows To Battle Bale, Benzema And Ronaldo For Place At Real Madrid

A

Supporters of a certain age felt inspired because along with the transfer policy it echoed the philosophy of Bill Shankly, reminding them of how Liverpool became great in the first place.

It triggered reminiscences of 1971 when they bought Kevin Keegan for a pittance.

He was turned into a superstar and the profit from his sale was used to buy Kenny Dalglish in 1977.

Later they bought Ian Rush and turned him into a superstar.

His sale to Juventus subsequently paid for John Barnes and Peter Beardsley. All those goals, all that excitement, all those trophies were achieved with the same negative net spend that now drives some fans crazy.

The response to the above is obvious. Sadio Mane is no John Barnes, despite what John Aldridge may hint at. As for another Dalglish or Rush, forget it. So Liverpool could return to the good old days if only their judgement was as exceptional as Shankly’s or his

LVARO Morata is determined to give Real netted twice for Spain Monday’s 8-0 Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane a difficult in over decision to make once Cristiano Ronaldo triumph and Karim Benzema are available for selection. Liechtenstein in a for €30 World Cup qualifier.

Ronaldo and Juventus Benzema have missed million. He had been Madrid’s opening two linked with a move to La Liga games through England with Premier injury, allowing Morata League clubs Arsenal to start in both and Chelsea reportedly alongside Gareth Bale. keen to acquire him.

OTTENHAM Hotspur striker Vincent “I came back because Portugal captain Janssen has said it would be “an enormous Ronaldo has recovered I wanted to succeed at honour” to emulate Ruud van Nistelrooy from a knee injury that Madrid and I’m going but knows comparisons with the former he sustained during the to fight for a place,” he Manchester United striker are premature.

Euro 2016 final triumph said. “This is why I over France, while returned.

“During the season, Benzema has been out with a hip problem. there are players that suspensions, They trained this week have with the team and injuries although we could play in Saturday’s hope there aren’t that home game against many. I hope Zidane makes rotations Osasuna.

Bale, Benzema and because it would be Ronaldo combined for good for everyone as 98 goals in all players would be competitions for the allowed to rest and others would play.” club last season.

Ronaldo started in 48 •Vincent Janssen has impressed for Spurs but has yet to “They [Bale, Benzema and Ronaldo] games for Real last score. are the best players in season but struggled in the Janssen, 22, was last Alkmaar the world but I will with muscular injuries season’s top scorer in summer. fight to try to play and at the end of the the Eredivisie with 27 The Netherlands give everything to campaign. goals in 34 games, international was born Morata, who scored persuading Spurs to in Heesch, near from make the choice difficult for the coach,” in the 2-1 home win spend £17 million to Van Nistelrooy’s home over Celta Vigo before Morata told AS. sign him from AZ town of Oss and told “In all the top clubs the international break, Dutch daily AD: ”In there is competition England they are just and at Madrid even finding out that me and more. My dream is to Van Nistelrooy are triumph at Madrid and from the same area. if I didn’t think I could “But I wouldn’t say do it, I would have we’re being mentioned gone to another team in the same breath — where I would have maybe that will come. played a lot more.”

I would think that’s an Morata returned to enormous honour. I’m the Bernabeu this not as far as him yet.” summer after Los Van Nistelrooy Blancos activated a buyback clause to re-sign •Alvaro Morata celebrates his goal in the La Liga win scored 95 goals in 150 over Celta Vigo. league appearances for the 23-year-old from

successor Bob Paisley’s in their heyday?

That is a very tough act for Klopp to follow, but it’s clear he doesn’t see the game in the same way as other good coaches with a “win whatever the cost” approach. In the modern game that could certainly be construed as naive.

There will be plenty of cynics who’d accuse the club’s owners of adopting Klopp’s surface frugality for their own selfish ends.

There will be others who dismiss that as self-righteous nonsense. It’s not as if the club hasn’t s agreed to some eye-watering fees in recent seasons, with some very disappointing results.

Players like Daniel Sturridge and Philippe Coutinho also prove not every successful player has to break the bank in order to be snapped up.

Small wonder that Liverpool have turned to Klopp, shrugged a collective shoulder and thought “What have we got to lose?”

It’s worth noting the closest Liverpool have come in the last 20 years to developing a team worthy of its worldwide popularity was under Rafa Benitez.

Tottenham's Vincent Janssen Hopes To Emulate Ruud Van Nistelrooy Success

T

United after joining from PSV in 2001.

But although Janssen has yet to score in the English top flight he has made an impressive start, featuring in Spurs’ first three games.

“I’ve always felt a strong urge to prove myself. Maybe that’s my biggest talent,” he said. “I can tell the crowd appreciates the way I play.

“Within the squad I was immediately accepted. We have a young, ambitious group, with no players who feel they’ve already arrived. That made it easier, I think.

I really was accommodated fantastically.”

Janssen has established himself as a regular for the Netherlands team under Danny Blind and, following a friendly defeat to Greece last week, former Dutch international Willem van Hanegem described him as “by far the best player” in the squad.

A first class goalkeeper in Pepe Reina, a quality defence, a central midfield of Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano, Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres wreaking havoc up front — and a manager whose requests for more transfer funds seemed unending.

What Benitez would make of Klopp’s acquiescence in spending does not bear thinking about. It is true, however, that Benitez exploited his own eye for a bargain — certainly with defensive purchases — which helped him achieve what he achieved.

Arguments still rage over whether Liverpool could have reached top spot in England had the Spaniard been given exactly what he wanted, but the past is the past.

Now Liverpool fans take a withering glance at the summer spending table which shows a stark £160 million difference between what the Reds have spent and both Manchester clubs’ outlay. In the short term that is a bitter pill to swallow and proof to some that Liverpool’s owners aren’t very serious about achieving success on the pitch.

Fenway Sports Group are in a tricky position.

Unlike most clubs, there is a belief at Liverpool that how you achieve things is important as well. Most Reds fans would not welcome a player being bought for £89.3m, as Manchester United did with Paul Pogba. Zlatan Ibrahimovic would be a signing more their style but there are concrete reasons why the Swede wanted Old Trafford.

The whole outlook of that club is geared to achieving success right now — high wages are no problem and the biggest stars don’t have time to wait around for any manager’s “project” to grow into full bloom.

That, like it or not, is what Liverpool have signed up for with Klopp. The German refuses to be ripped off — though he didn’t mind taking Crystal Palace’s £30m for Christian Benteke — and that will hopefully aid Liverpool’s teambuilding in the future.

For the moment, fans must hope he really does have the players he needs to get this team climbing the table.

www.osundefender.org

THE 6TH MOST-VISITED NEWSPAPER WEBSITE IN NIGERIA

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2016

L

AST Thursday, September 1, all roads led to Osogbo, the Osun State capital. The occasion was part of the state’s celebration of the Silver Anniversary of its creation by the military president, General Ibrahim Babangida, on August 27, 1991, along with 11 other states, namely, Abia, Adamawa, Anambra, Delta, Edo, Enugu, Jigawa, Kebbi, Kogi, Taraba and Yobe. The significance of Osun State’s celebration lied, in part, in the fact that it was the only one President Muhammadu Buhari participated in.

The president’s participation was by way of visiting a couple of the state’s newly built primary and secondary schools before finally inaugurating the Osogbo Government High School. The school must be one of the largest, most beautiful and most well equipped secondary schools in the country.

Actually the school, as the governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, explained in his welcoming address, is three-in-one, each with a student population of 1,000, its own principal and staff but with an overall supervising principal and sharing academic and sports facilities.

The high school may be top of the line, but it is only one of a dozen or so high schools that Governor Aregbesola has built or rebuilt as part of his comprehensive restructuring – today’s buzz word for every politician seeking relevance! – of primary and secondary school education in the state to give its students the quality education they need to transform their state from Third World status to First in one generation. (It reminds you, doesn’t it, of the famous title of the autobiography of Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore’s late prime minister, who lifted his country from Third World to First in one generation).

When Aregbesola first became the governor in November 2010, he inherited a public school system typical of public state system all over Nigeria – dilapidated, over populated, under staffed, under equipped, and badly managed schools. As a man who apparently believed the key to human progress is education, the governor resolved to end the rot.

As the man himself told it in his welcome speech on Thursday, the first step he took in ending the rot was to convene an education summit for the state chaired by no less an icon of the virtue of knowledge than Wole Soyinka, black Africa’s first Literature Nobel laureate.

Out of the summit emerged four elements for the transformation of the state’s public schools: their feeding and health programme, reclassification of the schools into elementary, middle and high schools, infrastructural development and the provision of what Americans call edtech (the use of technology to drive education), but which the state called Opon-Imo (Yoruba for tablet of knowledge) for all students.

The building of the high school President Buhari inaugurated last

Education: Aregbesola As An Exemplar

•AREGBESOLA Thursday fell into the third category in which so far the Aregbesola administration has constructed or reconstructed 28 elementary schools, 22 middle schools and four high schools, with another 14 virtually completed.

REGBESOLA was, of course, not the first to convene an educational summit. Long before him, the Northern Governors’ Forum did so in Kaduna.

Individually the governors also made the right noises about ending their region’s notorious educational backwardness. To date their actions have not matched their noises.

Instead, the region has dropped even further behind than it was during the First Republic.

Educationally backward as the North was back then, its leaders, with its premier, Sir Ahmadu Bello, in the forefront, walked their talk about bridging the gap between the region and the rest of the country.

Meaning, they invested heavily in primary and secondary schools so that the region could produce quality materials qualified for admission into any tertiary institution anywhere in the world.

With all due humility, I can boast that I am one of those materials. I and my cousin, retired MajorGeneral Mohammed Garba, and a childhood friend, Professor Mustapha Zubairu of Federal University of Technology, Minna, attended Native Authority primary schools in Kano, first in Tudun Wada for the first four years from 1957 and finished at Kuka Primary School after another four, having had to repeat my final year because I failed to gain entrance into a secondary school in my third year in 1963.

Kuka was located between Sabon Gari where we lived and Fagge. It was a walking distance from our home on Niger Road. All around us

A

were Igbo and Yoruba most of whose children attended private and mission schools. In the evenings of weekdays all of us attended private lessons to improve on our chances of doing well in school. I remember we used to beat the children who went to private and mission schools in the evening classes, especially in English.

I am always amused each time people talk about the magic Chief Obafemi Awolowo performed with free education in Western Region. Of course, it was a great achievement which showed Awo’s foresight.

Even then I am always amused because while the great premier of the West gave free education, in the North we were paid to go to school and we did so in hundreds of thousands, if not in millions.

The problem, I think, was that the next generation of the region’s politicians chose to pay only lip service to investment in education, especially primary and secondary education, without which invariably we could only send garbage into our tertiary schools. And as they say of computers: garbage in, garbage out. know this for sure because of the experience I had teaching in my alma mater, Ahmadu Bello University’s Mass Communication Department for six years until I left two years ago. During the last three of those six years, I made it a habit to test the English language of all my students, both under- and postgraduates, at the beginning of each semester.

The test was a simple one of correcting 10 sentences with errors in grammar, spelling and punctuation. The average failure rate for all the students was a dismal 70 per cent! The highest score was 8 and you could count those on your fingertips.

The conclusion is obvious; our universities have generally been taking in barely literate materials because our primary and secondary schools have suffered criminal neglect.

In giving primary and secondary education top priority to the extent of even borrowing to reform Osun State’s public education system, Aregbesola has demonstrated that he has his heart and mind in the right place. As a mutual friend, Chief Ikechi Emenike, who also witnessed Buhari’s inauguration of the Osogbo Government High School said, the governor’s educational intervention “reflected an abiding love for his people and a deep appreciation of history and his legacy.”

President Buhari summed it even better when he said in his speech the

I

By MUHAMMED HARUNA governor was only keeping the promise of the ruling party to provide free and qualitative basic education by implementing the Basic Education Act. “What we are witnessing here today,” he said, “is the formal fulfilment of that promise in Osun by the state government. The cost effectiveness of this project can only be seen when we consider that this school will graduate an average 1,000 pupils in a year and in 50 years it would have produced 50,000 well trained and well equipped pupils, many of who will go to higher institutions and will form the backbone of the administration of our country.

Over six years ago, an awardwinning columnist of the New York Times, Thomas Friedman, wrote an article which underscored the importance of quality basic education and which I have had cause to refer to on these pages and elsewhere. He titled it “ Pass the Books. Hold the Oil.” T was published in the Times of March 10, 2012. Every politician concerned about the dismal state of our education at all levels should read that short – roughly 1,070 words – article. In it Friedman narrated how a study by richcountry club, the Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development (O.E.C.D.), established a negative linkage between natural resource dependent countries and knowledge.

The club looked at the bi-annual test of 15-year olds in Mathematics, Science and reading comprehension in 65 countries and the total earnings of each of them as a percentage of its Gross Domestic Product. The test was called PISA, Programme for International Student Assessment.

The study, Friedman said, showed that the bigger a country’s revenue from natural resources as a percentage of its GDP, the poorer the knowledge and skills of its pupils.

For example, participating Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Algeria, Bahrain, Iran and Syria that were natural resource rich performed poorly compared to Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey, also in the Middle East, which were natural resource poor.

So, Friedman concluded, “Oil and PISA don’t mix.”

As always there were exceptions to his thesis. Canada, Australia and Norway, also countries with high levels of natural resources, he pointed out, still scored well on PISA, in large part because all three countries had established deliberate policies of saving and investing these resource rents, and not just consuming them.

The three countries provide great lessons for us as a natural resource dependent country by showing that oil and PISA can indeed mix.

As a country we may have so far blown away our oil fortune, but clearly Aregbesola has shown as governor of one of the poorest states in the country that you don’t have to be rich to plan for the future of your children.

•Culled from The Nation.

I

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 Managing Editor, KOLA OLABISI, Telephone: 08033927286 (kolaolabisi@yahoo.com); Editor, KAYODE AGBAJE, Telephone: 0803-388-0205, E-mail: osundefenderbank@gmail.com, kayodeagbaje@yahoo.com. ISSN: 0794-8050.Website: www.osundefender.org.