September 14, 2018 Online Vesion Of Osun Defender

Appreciating Years Of Symbolic Progressivism (II) The symbol of progressive politics in the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has continued to receive encomium, judging from his interventions in all sectors of governance during his era of transformation. SOLOMON ODENIYI obtained the views of the Secretary to the State Government, Senator Mudashiru Hussein and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Honourable Rasaq Salinsile on some of the interventions. SEE PAGE 5

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VOL. 013. NO.34

ISSN: 0794-8050

N100

Surge In Thuggery, Risk In Society e Pag2

Osun Govt Pays Salary, Pension Arrears With N19.8bn

•It Is A Promise Fulfilled - Labour •Evidence Of Credibility And Economic Prosperity - Expert SEE PAGE 2

Court Orders Adeleke’s Appearance Over School Cert Saga SEE PAGE 2

Osun Market Women Appraise A Productive Era PAGE 10

•Alhaja Awawu Asindemade, Iyaloja-General, State of Osun.

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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 20, 2018

Surge In Thuggery, Risk In Society

By Kehinde Ayantunji The surge in the rate at which young ones embrace thuggery in recent times is becoming alarming, as it poses danger to safety of lives and properties of the teeming populace.

A case study of Osun, classes boast of their investigation revealed that notoriety, believing that it youths of Secondary guarantees shortest route school age in many rural to successafter leaving areas of the state, rather school rather than wanting than looking up to to pursue decent responsible mentorship, profession. prefer to look at thugs as This is despite the role models. efforts of the Osun Also, some young government to instil school leavers and discipline in school sometimes those in senior children.

Checks gathered that many of the youths in the category are initiated into cultism right from secondary school, a menace that is yet to be curtailed, as a result of patronage they enjoyed from politicians, hence graduated to be big time thugs and mercenaries for the political class.

Recent findings however revealed that the problem is systemic as the medium discovered that some children within the age range of 7-10 hang

around at night around some places in Old Garage, extending to freedom park rail lines and some of them who spoke with the medium disclosed that they sometimes sleep at odd places at night for fear of going back to be disciplined for one offence or the other at home.

Also, a girl who claimed to be seven years old told the medium that she simply sleeps at the park with her younger brother because there is no one to

•L-R Governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; President OSMC Alhaji Mustafa Adewuyi, Former Comm. for Local Govt and Chieftaincy Muhib Opeloye, Sen Hussein Mudashiru, Alhaji Abdulrazaq Bamigbade during the 1440 Hijrah celebration at Osogbo City Stadium on Wednesday.

take care of them.

She added that during the day, she begs around for help and use the proceeds to feed the younger one.

An elderly man, Pa Samuel Adelegan told OSUN DEFENDER that the process of recruiting into thuggery always start from the home when children abscond due to so many factors, calling on all stakeholders to see the importance of raising responsible citizens to the entire community.

He condemned the attitude of politicians in encouraging, harbouring and supportIng thuggery by making money available to them during electioneering period as well as in executing hatchet jobs.

OSUN DEFENDER investigation showed that in major cities in the state such as Osogbo, Ilesa, Ikirun, Ejigbo, Ile-Ife as well as Ede, thuggery activities is well pronounced as social is also well noticed in public schools and among teenagers.

Member of a human right group, CDHR, who pleaded anonymity disclosed that the creation and sponsorship of political thugs under the guise of youth arm by political parties has helped

Osun Govt Pays Salary, Pension Arrears With N19.8bn •It Is A Promise Fulfilled - Labour •Evidence Of Credibility And Economic Prosperity - Expert

By Kehinde Ayantunji Days to Osun governorship election, the state government has commenced disbursement of N19.8 billion as salaries and other entitlements to its workers and pensioners. welfare above others, the Governor Rauf government of Osun has Aregbesola during the commenced payment of week authorised the full salary and arrears in release of the money for line with available payment of full salary of resources.

August 2018 and four “In line with labour months’ salary arrears of unions’ demands and the workers, as well as current financial position pensioners. of the state, government of Commissioner for the State of Osun led by Finance, Bola Oyebamiji, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola on Tuesday in a statement has authorised payment of said the governor had four months’ salary arrears approved the release of and 2016 leave bonus to its N19,801, 328,271.022 for workers. disbursement.

“Also, Mr Governor has The workers are being directed that goingowed a backlog of salaries, forward, workers in the with some cadre receiving state should be paid their only portions of their pay full salary as and when subject to the government due to demonstrate his and labour unions commitment to his earlier agreement for the promises. payment of Modulated “With this, Government Salary when the economy of the State of Osun has of Nigeria crashed. commenced gradual Osun government disbursement of however applauded N19,801,328,271.22 as workers “for their salaries and other perseverance and entitlements to its commitment to the state workers”, the statement despite its lean finances. read.

“In line with its agenda The Nigeria Labour and fulfillment of its Congress (NLC) in the promise to the state state has said that the workers regarding fulfillment of the promises prioritisation of their by the government to pay

outstanding salary arrears has brought a ray of hope to the workforce.

In a statement by the state NLC Chairman, Comrade Jacob Adekomi, he appreciated the Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola for fulfilling part of his promise that the government would be paying as funds arrive.

The statement read: “The government at different fora has promised to offset our arrears of salaries and pensions necessitated by the modulated payment immediately there is fund.

“It is on this note, that I want to inform you that at our meetings with Government at the instance of the refund paid to the state by the Federal Government, with the new Chief of Staff leading the government side, it was resolved that: August 2018 Salary and Pension should be paid immediately; September, October, November and December 2015 Salaries and Pensions arrears be paid immediately; 2016 leave Bonus arrears be paid immediately; Machineries to sustain full payments of subsequent Salaries and Pensions were put in

place; Government has promised to look into the payment of Gratuity and Contributory Pensions Scheme immediately.

“I want also to use this medium to appreciate the Governor Ogbeni Aregbesola on behalf of all workers for fulfilling part of his promise that he would be paying as funds arrive”, the statement read.

Meanwhile, an Industrial Relation Expert, Dr Abraham Ogundele in an interview with OSUNDEFENDER said the state government has cleared the doubts of those who are skeptical about the commitment of government to pay the

salary arrears.

He said the government by the gesture has asserted his credibility across globe that governance is about integrity and trust no matter the situation.

According to him “ Nigeria as a country suffered serious economic challenges in the last four years as a result of the multifaceted factors which incapacitated the federal government and the state government with weak internal revenue, and the main challenges in some of our engagement is inability of state government to honour labour agreement especially when economy is improving”.

present thuggery as a profession that attracts patronage from the political class, saying virtually all parties are guilty of the act.

According to him, before the proliferation of political thuggery, touts and thugs are not that attractive, as it is seen as an act indulged in by only society misfit, but of recent, it has become a profession all youth compete for because the money some of them make is even beyond what an average graduate could make in ten years.

Also, the type of immunity they enjoy when the long arm of the law caught up with them makes the line of duty even attracting to youths who are prone to violencerelated act.

Some of the instances the right activists made reference to include the release of thugs who were perceived to be used for electoral violence and the refusal of police to prosecute known political criminals, while those that are prosecuted are not diligently done.

“The rate at which thugs go about in big cars and building gigantic structures, young ones that are not properly brought up would be attracted and hence begin to destroy their future and that of the community.

Besides, thugs go about bragging their closeness with top politicians and their protection from any crime they might commit in the course of an illegal action for their godfathers, which is the fastest way of limiting the capacity of youths from developing their potentials for the development of the nation”, the activist added.

A retired teacher, Mr Adeoye Olaiya told the medium that the fastest way of destroying societal values is encouraging thuggery and rewarding any dastardly act committed.

He therefore called on all stakeholders, especially parents and religious organisation to look at the issue with the urgency it deserves.

Court Orders Adeleke’s Appearance Over School Cert Saga

By Sikiru Obarayese

Contrary to denial by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that no order was given by any court against its candidate, Senator Ademola Adeleke, an High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has ordered the West African Examination Council (WAEC) to produce the documents that would help determine whether or not the senator participated in the examination in 1981.

This was subject to the Part of the prayers motion filed by the duo of sought in the motion was Mr. Wahab Adekunle that Adeleke should stop Raheem, and Mr. Adam parading himself as the Omosalewa Habeeb governorship candidate challenging the of the PDP and that the qualification of the INEC should start senator on the ground recognizing him as such. that he does not possess In its ruling on the necessary Monday, Justice O.A qualification.

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Musa of the FCT High Court sitting in Bwari, ordered Adeleke to appear before it on Wednesday next week to explain why he should not be disqualified from contesting the September 22 poll.

The judge also ordered the WAEC to produce the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination result of all candidates who sat for the May/June 1981 at Ede Muslim High School in Osun state.

This is with a view to •Continued on page 3

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Osun Guber: More Alignments Imminent Ahead Sept 22

By Sikiru Obarayese With few days to the September 22 governorship election in the State of Osun, there is still likelihood of shake up across political lines in the state.

The shake up might Adejare Bello. follow the defection of the It was gathered that former Speaker of Osun leaders and candidates of House of Assembly and a different political parties Peoples Democratic Party are still on the move (PDP) governorship making entreaties to one aspirant, Honourable another across political

lines for the possibility of alignment and realignment.

Bello has during the week resigned his membership of PDP and defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), as rumours are ripe that some other bigwigs might join the ruling party before the

election.

Bello is from Ede, the hometown of the governorship candidate of the PDP, Senator Ademola Adeleke.

Confirming his defection to APC in a video, he said he had joined the ruling party to team up with its governorship candidate,

•Representative of Osun Commissioner of Police, Mr Babarinsa I.A (right with mic); Guest Lecturer, Comrade Bamidele Aremu from College of Education Ilesa ; Director DSGMG, Comrade Bayo Ojo and others during the election lecture series, organised by the Department of Social and Grassroots Mobilisation and Guidance (DSGMG), office of the governor in Ilesa on Monday.

Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI

9 Year-old Girl Killed As Masquerades Clash In Ife

By Sola Jacobs The clash between two rival factions of a masquerade in Ile-Ife had led to killing of a nine years old girl, Blessing Fagbamigbe in Ita-Akogun market area of the ancient city.

According to an eye unconsciousness since the witness account, who death of her child. confided in OSUN Another trader in ItaDEFENDER, Blessing was akogun market who hit by bullet shot from one relayed her experience of the supporters of Eegun said the annual Egungun Ropo, at the grand finale festival in Ile-ife had of the Eegungun which is always been a fun affair known as “Igbaja” in Ita- until the last three year Akogun market. when there is a rivalry While fielding question between two groups. from the medium, Blessing She stated further that grandmother, an the masquerade had octogenarian said on the always bear cane until the fateful day the deceased last three years when they who had just returned started carrying arms, as it from summer lesson was was gathered that there is eating inside her shop in rivalry between Mope the area, while a supporter group and Alaagba group of Eegun Ropo shot and in the ancient city. the bullet hit her in the The Mope group, she head, after which the added was the one that shooter before he and his fired the shot that hit the masquerade fled the scene. victim as they enter into She stated further that the market. the mother of the A source at the ‘Division deceased, Mrs. Sola C’ police station, Aganhun Fagbamigba, her daughter confirmed the incidence had since been in a state of and disclosed that the

body of the deceased had been deposited at Obafemi Awolowo Teaching Hospital mogue in Ile-Ife for autopsy.

It was also gathered that Eegun Ropo who is also known as “Mope” had been arrested, while his supporter who is a member of Vigilantee Group of Nigeria {VGN}

determining whether or not the PDP candidate participated in the examination.

The Court then ordered the Director General of WAEC or any other designated officer of the council to depose to an affidavit confirming or denying that Adeleke, with candidate number 19645/149, sat for the

examination.

It also granted other prayers, including the leave of the court to grant accelerated hearing of the suit, and the leave to serve the respondents, including Senator Adeleke, the PDP and the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) by substituted means.

Meanwhile, the PDP accused agents of the All Progressives Congress of

total shift from the intendments of the founding fathers of the party, which was built on justice, fairness and service, had caused me to reconsider my membership of the party of which I hereby again resigned.

“It is my sincere belief that some certain elements had hijacked the rudder of the ship of the party and changed its course towards an unknown part of which I am not ready to take”.

Besides, the Alliance for Democracy governorship candidate, Gbenga Akintola gave a hint that there might be more realignments in the days ahead, saying, other parties have been knocking at his doors, just as he added that what is important for him is to ensure that Osun people elect the right person for the job.

“I must say that there are consultations already going on. If it happens to be me, I will be very happy to do that because the plans I have for them are genuine, achievable and realistic which will make our state the envy of other states in not a long distant future.

“If we have people of like minds, people that have genuine interest for the development of our state and see that they have superior agenda to mine, of course I will give room for that, but I must have asked the right questions on what they have done to eliminate the issues the people are confronted with”, Akintola hinted.

My Remarks At Ataoja Palace Twisted To Score Cheap Point - Tinubu

By Sola Jacobs National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Tinubu said the opposition had twisted his remarks during a visit to the palace of Ataoja of Osogbo to score cheap political point.

In a statement by his According to the Media Adviser, Tunde Rahman, the twisting of statement, Tinubu did not the remarks was intended disparage the people of to create bad blood among Osogbo in his remarks at Asiwaju Tinubu, the the palace, saying, “What Ataoja and the people of the APC leader said is that Osogbo whom the APC in vying for Osun leader holds in high governorship, the party’s candidate, Alhaji Isiaka esteem.

Gboyega Oyetola, is motivated by service and not by any selfish consideration.

“He said for Alhaji circulating what he called fake news, saying no Oyetola, using the order of such was given governorship, if elected, as by any court. an avenue for primitive A statement by the wealth accumulation is the D i r e c t o r - G e n e r a l , least of his considerations Ademola Adeleke for the office. He recalls Campaign Organisation, that Alhaji Oyetola is an Akogun Lere insurance guru who has Oyewunmi said, the PDP been in the corporate candidate has been world for over 30 years declared fit and qualified now. He founded and to run for the raised his company to the governorship election. enviable level that it is

Court Orders Adeleke

•Continued from page 2

whose name cannot be ascertained at the time of filing this report has evaded arrest.

The police source affirmed that others who are in connection with the rivalry that led to the killing of the girl, have been transferred to the state police command Osogbo for prosecution.

Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola.

According to him, candidates and leaders of various political parties have approached him for alignment, but he has decided to join APC. He said this is because in reality, APC and PDP are the major political parties existing in Nigeria as of today.

According to him, some of those that have approached him for alignment are the candidates of the Action Democratic Party (ADP), Alhaji Moshood Adeoti; Social Democratic Party (SDP), Senator Iyiola Omisore; African Democratic Congress (ADC) leader, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola and the APC candidate, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola among others.

In his letter of resignation from PDP, Bello who was the running mate of Senator Omisore, the then candidate of PDP in 2014 governorship election, said he decided to resign from the opposition party because ‘some elements’ had hijacked it.

His resignation letter read, “I hereby write to officially resign my membership of the Peoples Democratic Party at all levels of the party.

“I use this medium to appreciate the party and the leadership for several opportunities given to me to serve the party and the people of Osun State “Going forward, therefore, the recent events, especially within the Osun chapter of the party which to me, are inimical, contrary and a

today.

“Asiwaju Tinubu couldn’t have said anything to disparage the same people whose votes he is seeking for the APC candidate.

“He is far too smart and politically savvy than that.

And those spreading this false stuff know this much.

“The APC leader holds the Ataoja of Osogbo with reference, the same way he views and relates to other traditional rulers, and could not have said anything to demean their respectable thrones.

“He will also not do or say anything to lower the esteem of the people of Osogbo.

“The report giving the impression that he disparaged them is concocted and should be totally ignored.

“Given his background and record over the years, is Asiwaju the type of person or politician who will disparage anybody or group of people on

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account of whether they are rich or poor?

“Asiwaju has always stressed the fact that he was born into poverty and had to achieve success in life through much suffering, perseverance and industry.

“This is also as it was with many of our great leaders including heroes like Chief Obafemi Awolowo and MKO Abiola. Like these icons, Asiwaju’s goal in politics is to utilize all he has to help empower people and lift them out of poverty”.

The statement reaffirmed that Tinubu’s message at the Ataoja’s palace was that this is also the mission of Oyetola in politics, a man who has achieved financial success in his private life before coming into politics, has a reputation for honesty and integrity and is not running for governor to accumulate wealth.

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ISSUES/POLICY

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Dissecting The Manifesto Of Oyetola For Osun Guber Poll

By Olufemi Oyedele The interest of any good political analyst in the coming Osun gubernatorial election on S a t u r d a y , September 22, 2018, should be the campaign of progress and peace by the “Ileri Oluwa Group” – the p o l i t i c a l movement in Osun - whose candidates for the post of governorship and deputy governorship are Alhaji Gboyega Isiaka Oyetola and Benedict Olugboyega Alabi respectively. They are the flag bearers of All Peoples Congress (APC) and have both fascinated the electorates with their suave and candour. These are signs of confidence and belief in what they have in stock for the state, according to many observers. Their campaigns so far, have witnessed mammoth crowds!

Apart from the fact that ‘Demo’, the acronym for Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its other offshoots like Social Democratic Party (SDP), ADP and African Democratic Congress (ADC) are not good parties to be relied on for community development, Gboyega Oyetola and Benedict Alabi have the best manifesto worthy of consideration by any electorate in the State of Osun. For sixteen years, Peoples Democratic Party was in charge of the affairs of Nigeria and never brought anything good out throughout their sojourn. Most of their leaders turned into kleptomaniac and stole the country dry. This dastardly act is being revealed by the incessant discoveries and confiscation of their huge loots by the administration of President Muhammad Buhari since he came into office.

The position of leadership of any government local, state or federal, should not be left in the hands of mediocre if the objective is to derive the dividends of democracy by the masses. President Barak Obama, Governor Rauf Aregbesola and Governor Babatunde Raji Fasola’s conditions short while after assuming power are examples of the strain and stress that the office of the Governor or President of a state portends. In less than three months after being ushered in into the White House in Washington DC, Barak Obama’s black hairs turned into grey. The job of a Governor is a

The position of leadership of any government - local, state or federal, should not be left in the hands of mediocre if the objective is to derive the dividends of democracy by the masses. serious one and know-how, demands full dedication, wisdom and empathy. These are the qualities that stand Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola out from the lots. He has been trusted and tested with money and found to be honest unlike some candidates.

For the continuity of the gains of our ‘heroes past’, including those of Leo Ajiborisa, who stormed the weather to berth the ship of the State in 1991 when there was nothing; Chief Adebisi Akande who was the initiator of good works in the state, and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, the coveted office of the governor of the State of Osun requires the best hand the state can offer. These three progressive leaders have left their marks, individually and collectively, to develop the State of Osun to enviable position. It was due to his unparalleled achievements towards uplifting the fortune of the state that a Chieftain of PDP, Chief Ebenezer Babatope, stated that “Aregbesola has done well. In everything, he has done, he has done it well”.

Chief Ebenezer Babatope also reiterated that “It will be very hard for the PDP to take-over from him.

As far as I am concerned, Aregbesola is a performer.

The young man has done very well. Anything he touches, he does well. Aregbesola plans well. Go round the state, Osogbo and all other places, kudos to him. Even if I am opposed to the APC and what President Muhammadu’s federal government has done, I can never discredit Aregbesola and his government. He has done well.” To meet his pact with the people of Osun as stated in the Green Book, Aregbesola established the award-winning Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme (OYES) which has engaged over 62,000 youths in the state, was the first

Salary Arrears: Ogbeni, Thanks For Keeping To Your Words

While the going was good and the state revenue from FAC was fat, no one was owed in Osun even when other states in the country were owed. Not even there was anything like “Afusa” which many aspirants today have turned to their hit song.

However, tides changed, the price of crude oil worldwide dwindled from the $100 per barrel to $40 per barrel. The adverse effect of this on a nation like ours which had solely relied on the downstream sector to prosper was grossly felt. This plunged the country’s economy into recession which made life unbearable for many in the country even as government was intensifying effort to get the economy back to it state of boom through diversification.

As a result, many governors, and other establishment who could not cope started laying offworkers to enable them face the reality of the day. It was even reported that a governor asked civil servants to come to work from

Monday to Wednesday while the remaining days should be used for farming, nobody called for his head, they all took it in good faith.

Meanwhile, instead of going in the way of others, Aregbesola was borrowing to pay salaries until it was dawn on him.

He called a meeting of some stakeholders including the state labour chairman where it was agreed that salaries would be tailored according to the income they receive.

It was afterwards he introduced the half salary

as against sacking of workers, in a state largely dominated by civil servants. Aregbesola was so magnanimous to the extent that he left the low earners out of the half salary scheme. That is, those between level 1 and 7 were excluded from the modulated arrangement

and level 8 upward were affected. He promised to offset when things get better which he has started.

Yesterday the Government of the State of Osun has commenced gradual disbursement of N19,801,328,271.22 as salaries and other entitlements to its workers. With this, he has showed he can be held by his words.

People who are using this to score cheap political points should desist from this.. I am quite sure if he had sacked many workers so that the remaining few can get their full pay, we would have cried a river then and by now get over it, rather he has put the welfare of workers in the state above other considerations.

•IBRAHIM ABIMBOLA, Ede, State of Osun.

•Gboyega Oyetola presenting a new deal in the State of Osun. governor in Nigeria to pay the state counterpart for the establishment of Youth Employment and Social Support Operation (YESSO) – a World Bankassisted rural youth development programme.

The school buildings that were constructed under the administration of Ogbeni Aregbesola are unprecedented in Nigeria. Late Senator Uche Chukwumerije, who was Chairman, Senate Committee on Education hailed the education policies of the Osun government. He said other states should take a cue from it. OREAP (Osun Rural Enterprise Programme), O’ Clean (Osun Environmental and Sanitation Programme), OMEAL (Osun Elementary School Feeding and Health Programmes), O’RENEWAL (Osun Urban Renewal Committee), O’SCHOOL (Osun School Infrastructure Revamp Agency) and Agba Osun (a social investment through which elderly people in the state of Osun are given N7,500.00 every month) are some of the programmes that Gboyega Oyetola is committed.

•To be concluded next week

•Written by Olufemi Oyedele, a political analyst wrote in from Osogbo.

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MAGAZINE FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 20, 2018

Appreciating Years Of Symbolic Progressivism (II) The symbol of progressive politics in the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has continued to receive enconium, judging from his interventions in all sectors of governance during his era of transformation. SOLOMON ODENIYI got the views of the Secretary to the State Government, Senator Mudashiru Hussein and the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Honourable Rasaq Salinsile on some of the interventions.

Osun Under Aregbesola Peaceful Than Ever If not for the paucity of fund, the state would have been better than Lagos.

•Senator Hussein OSDF: Assessment Of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola Administration?

HUSSEIN: My assessment of Ogbeni Aregbesola will be based on the development that everybody can also see. If we start to count, it will take us a long time to do because of his numerous achievements. However, let me just point out few of them, which include, road construction, agricultural revolution, youth empowerment, economic development, social interventions like O’School, O’Meal, O’Reap, OYES, and many more. These are things that are unquantifiable.

Honestly, right from inception when we started campaigning to the people of Osun before the emergence of Rauf Aregbesola as a governor, throughout the campaign period, people did not even believe where we were going to get the fund to execute all our projects but this thing surpasses the imagination of human being . Whenever you want to do a project and you put God first, there is nothing God cannot do easily for you if you believe in Him. As a result, no government since the creation of Osun has done half of what Rauf Aregbesola had done interms of development. We can’t appreciate it because we may not see the value now but I can assure you when he leaves office, the people will begin to realize the achievement of this gentleman.

OSDF: How can the achievements be sustained?

HUSSEIN: Honestly, if you want good things to continue I am urging all Osun indigenes as well as non indigenes to vote for continuity. Before the emergence of our party, APC, there was

no peace in the state. Banditry, hooliganism and heinous, crime were the order of the day, but today you can sleep like a baby with your two eyes closed. All over the world, the security of lives and properties are very paramount. Why do we travel to European countries? It is not because they have more than us; what we have Britain does not have it, but because of the determination of their citizens and their government to the security of their environment, they have peace.

So, if we are truly interested in the continuity of peace and other development going on in our state, we must vote to consolidate these gains. The people of the state must vote for a person that has their interest in mind. Therefore, if you want the peaceful coexistence of the state to continue, it is important to vote for Oyetola Gboyega, the gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress.

OSDF: What are the interventions made in the security sector?

HUSSEIN: Here in Osun, security of lives and property is guaranteed for everyone due to the intervention of the government in that very important area of governance, and you might not appreciate it if you were not in Osun before Aregbesola assumed office. If you are to compare and contrast the governance within the seven and half years of the last administration to the present administration, honestly speaking, you will realise that there is a big difference unless we want to politicise it. The security of the state has been given priority than any government.

Before this time, during periods like this when election is fast approaching, there would have been panic everywhere but now, the situation is as calm as ever. The opposition can’t move

around then, but now, they are having the liberty to go about their activities without restrictions, some even go to the extent of abusing our government and we have not had a course to retaliate, that is what we call peace.

OSDF: Your relationship with Ogbeni Aregbesola?

HUSSEIN: Aregbesola is a wonderful man. I knew him before he became a governor. I was a member of the House of Representatives representing Lagos State when he was the Commissioner for Works and we have been friends since then. He is a very transparent man, accommodating, intelligent and God fearing. It seems God chose Aregbesola to come and deliver his message to the people of Osun. What he is doing is delivering God’s message. Look at him; can you compare the stature of Aregbesola with other governors? That is the man that has focus.

I hear people saying that he is after the state money, if he wants money he would have gotten it, because the budget of his ministry in Lagos superceded our own budget here but because he was determined to have his own quota contributed to the development of the state. Honestly, if not for the paucity of fund, the state would have been better than Lagos. That is Aregbesola for you.

May God reward him.

Aregbesola Has Brought All Round Development To Osun OSDF: What’s your assessment of Ogbeni?

SALINSILE: So far so good, every Osun indigene home and abroad, especially those who have not been around but have been coming to Osun in the last eight years will see that the man Aregbesola has tremendously changed the face of our state. Some may not appreciate this much unless we cast our minds back to years before 2010 when Aregbesola took over the mantle of leadership in Osun or have the privilege to view the video clips of what Osun was many years ago and what it looks like now before you can appreciate the very good job the man has done.

He has so much transformed the state to the extent that some people who have been away for the past four, five years confess to how they cannot easily trace their family compounds again especially in Osogbo here. This development is all round. We have the

Aregbesola has tremendously changed the face of our state. Some may not appreciate this much unless we cast our minds back to years before 2010 physical development, economic development and when we talk of security we are doing fantastically well.

OSDF: Which of his achievements appeals to you the most?

SALINSILE: Just like you have the

•Hon. Salinsile parts of the body, tell me which one is not important? In essence all what he has done are important and appeal to me.

OSDF: As a party man what can you say of him?

•Continued on page 6

FRIDAY SEPT. 14 - THURSDAY SEPT. 20, 2018

On-The-Hustings

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Olugbenga Akintola is the governorship candidate of the Alliance for Democracy in the September 22 governorship election in Osun. A former Executive Chairman, Lagos State Public Works Corporation between August 2009 and September 2015 with the task of rehabilitating and maintaining the State’s road network was appointed Special Adviser on Infrastructure in Oyo State two years ago. He speaks with SOLOMON ODENIYI in this interview on his mission of creating wealth and industrialisation of the state. Excerpts:

I'll Develop A Workforce With Capacity For Industrialisation - Akintola

OSDF: You’re running for the topmost seat in the state, can you run us through what your first line of action would be emerging as a governor?

AKINTOLA: The first thing for me will be to meet with the stakeholders to ensure we make arrangements on how to ensure that the backlog of salaries and pension arrears is paid. However to achieve this, the terms and conditions for payment of outstanding public debts have to be restructured. This has to be done with both internal and external creditors. It’s only when you do this that you can be able to free up a lot of funds in order to pay our hardworking workers.

For me, this is going to be the first line charge.

OSDF: Do you agree that the backlog of salaries and pension arrears you alluded to was as a result of the economic contraction in the country which led to the reduction of the state allocation, what will you do to avert a repeat?

Akintola: My vision is to create wealth for the people of Osun by developing a workforce that has the capacity for industrialization. I want to make Osun a state that will fulfill all its obligations to the people as well as a state that is less dependent on Federation Allocations.

OSDF : How will you achieve this?

AKINTOLA: I will achieve this by first moving our budget from recurrent to more of capital. This is one of the ways to kick start the economy because developmental projects would assist the people to become engaged in various economic activities. Secondly, I will leverage on the grants that are constantly available from multilateral agencies such as the Japanese International Cooperation Agency, the French International Development Agency, the DFID, USAID, the Bill Gates Foundation all these and more agencies have grants already earmarked for developing economies like that of Osun. So, my job as the representative of over 4.24million Osun indigenes is to knock on the doors of these development partners. So, my job is to ensure transparency and candor in the way the grants will be used.

Another way is to provide an enabling environment for private investors to allow them to come and inject a lot of funds into infrastructural development.

Currently, most infrastructural developments are executed by public funds but I am going to encourage the PPP model that will involve participation of private sector in collaboration with public sector so that a lot of funds will be made available to touch on projects that are of immense benefit to the people.

Going forward, we need to quickly

move agriculture from cash crops and food crops among others. We need to understand the value chain that exists from farming to manufacturing. We have logistics; there are so many activities that would involve a lot of jobs for our youths, male or female. Our storage facilities will be modernized so that we can have what we call the electronic warehouse receipt system which allows farmers to store their products and certificate gotten from this can be taken to banks for insurance purposes as well as funds.

OSDF: Ideally, anyone aspiring for a post like this needs to close tab on the administrator he wishes to succeed to decipher the strengths and weaknesses.

What’s your assessment of this administration?

AKINTOLA: Of c o u r s e , government is a continuum and my assessment of the incumbent is something that’s ongoing since they are yet to hand over. There are good things the government of the day has done. In the area of security, the government has not performed badly, however, it can still be bettered.

Secondly, in the area of infrastructure, as far as I am concern and with the facts available if you take Osogbo and Ilesha out of the equation and then you look at the remaining parts of the state, I will say that I am not impressed. Go to Iwo, Apomu, Ifewara, Ikire etc. I can’t give the government pass mark on this. They have nothing to show for the Airport they have spent over N6billion on.

Though, it is wrong for me to say this government has done nothing, they have done their bit, what I can say they have done is in the area of security.

OSDF: With the assurance from the state REC, do you have confidence in the electioneering processes so far and the INEC itself?

AKINTOLA: Judging from the antecedent of the electoral commissioner, I will want to give him the benefit of the doubt. I believe the parties and candidates are the ones we need to talk to. I can tell you authoritatively that I will never be involved in any form of malpractice. If you want to serve the people why will you want to rig, why will you want to buy votes? If you have genuine plans for them why should you do that? It’s illogical and it puzzles me seeing people engage in this. There are reports making rounds that numbers of people’s PVC are being taken before they could assess a loan by a party. What I will say to INEC is that all the agreements we had in series of our meetings should

It is wrong for me to say this government has done nothing, they have done their bit, what I can say they have done is in the area of security.

•Akintola be adhered to.

OSDF: The race has gone beyond the usual two-horse race, as contenders are scouting for candidates to join forces with, would you drop your ambition to join force with anyone?

AKINTOLA: I must say that there are consultations already going on. Other parties have been knocking at our doors.

We have not shut the doors to anybody, what is important is that Osun people will elect the right person for this job. If it happens to be me I will be very happy to do that because the plans I have for them are genuine, achievable and realistic which will make our state envy to other states in not a long distant future.

If we have people of like minds, people that have genuine interest for the people of our state and see that they have superior agenda to mine, of course I will give room for that. But I must have asked the right questions on what they have done to eliminate the issues the people are confronted with?

OSDF: You just rolled out a lot of conditions for a possible collaboration, what antecedent do you possess that makes you fit into the scheme of things?

AKINTOLA: I am middle aged.

Secondly, I have been involved in social interventions that have been affecting the lives of our people. For over six years I have been providing free treatment for those diagnosed of diabetes and hypertension with over 19,650 beneficiaries. I have been providing soft loans as well to market men and women,

artisans, people who have learnt trades and couldn’t afford tools needed for it, over 1000 beneficiaries have been recorded in this. I have donated anti biotic viral for the treatment of the infection of blood , abdomen and lungs to virtually all the hospitals in the state.

Each of this viral cost N9,000 in the market, how many people can afford this?

Also, I have worked in two different states. These are states I did not hail from.

I was only employed as a technocrat and was able to provide solutions to issues confronting them. I was in the cabinet of two governors. I worked for six years under Babatunde Raji Fashola as the Executive Chairman, Public Works Cooperation from 2009 to 2015. Also, I worked as a Special Adviser on Infrastructure for Oyo state, an appointment I resigned from so as to enable me deliver the good works I have done out there to my state of Origin.

These are records that can’t be bought. I am not a novice in governance, I am not going there to use our state as a testing ground. For us, from day one, work starts because of the experience I have had. Aside from being in cabinets, I have been part of delegation to World Bank among others. The experience I have gathered, no aspirants has it. They can’t also match my experience in the aspect of service to humanity. Unlike others, I am not just doing this because I want to contest I have been doing this for the past seven years.

All Round Development To Osun •Continued from page 5 SALINSILE: He is an achiever, he is a workaholic. He is a visionary and a proactive leader. To the party, he has been fantastic. I have the opportunity of comparing his relationship with the party in Osun vis-a-vis other governors in other states, because as the Secretary of the party, we have a forum of the state secretaries all over the country especially where we have APC in government. In comparing it, Aregbesola has done very well. He has always been a true party man.

Generally the man has been good..

OSDF: Your advice to the electorates?

SALINSILE: First and foremost, I urge them to go and collect their PVC. It is very important. It serves as an instrument they will use to perform their civic duties. Secondly, it is an instrument to elect the leader they want to govern them. I will also advise them to be law abiding before, during and after the forthcoming election.

Finally, I will advise the people of the state to reciprocate the good that

the government of APC has done by voting them in as kindness begets kindness and one good turn they say deserves another.

Comparatively, they will see an improvement, a great one over and above what PDP did in the state during their seven and half years. This government has to a large extent developed Osun state more than anybody’s imagination. I make bold to say, nobody has ever accused the administration of Aregbesola of stashing public funds, all they have been going about saying is that he bites more than he can chew and this is because, there are so many things to be done in Osun that has not been done before he came on board.

He had so much at hand, he wanted Osun of his dream to come to be within the shortest possible time especially coming from a state like Lagos where he was a pillar of development there. That vision and that mindset are the ones driving him here and he has always wanted to do more. If not for the paucity of fund, may be we would have had cause to clamour for a third term for him.

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COMMUNITY

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 20, 2018

Odo-Otin South LCDA Organises Seminar For Workers

The Chairman, Odo-Otin South Local Council Development Area, Mrs Bibitayo Ajala has advocated cordial relationships between political functionaries and career officers for effective service delivery.

She stated this recently organized by the Nigeria of Local during a day workshop Union

Government Employees (NULGE), Odo-Otin South branch.

The council boss noted that political functionaries and career officers are like Siamese

twins that cannot be separated because they play inseparable roles when it comes to policy making and policy implementation for better and effective

•One of the electricity transformer purchased by Honourable Gbenga Ayegbayo administration in Ejigbo local government.

service delivery to the people.

Noting that the seminar was necessary, as no amount spent on intellectual development is a waste, she was optimistic that there will be change of attitude to work and a better relationship.

Ajala who stressed that her administration places much importance on staff training and development, she said it is one of the bases for effective service delivery, urging the council workers to reciprocate the gesture.

The guest speaker, Mr Akande Oyelakin explained that local government is the closest government to the people, saying the kind of relationship that exist among functionaries would directly affect the people at the local level.

According to him, one of the major roles of a career staff is to advise

Ejigbo LG Renovates Markets, Commended

Market men and women in Ejigbo Local Government Council Area of the State of Osun have appreciated the administration of Honourable Gbenga Ayegbayo in the council for series of developmental programmes towards boosting commercial activities. of According to a statement administration Gbenga by the council’s Honourable Information Officer, Iroko Ayegbayo has fulfilled part Gershon, the market of his campaign promises women made the he made.

“He promised the market commendations during a series of interview with women that if he is elected as the chairman, his first some of them.

The statement read: “The assignment would be to

complete renovation of Ode Bara market which he fulfilled.

Aggregating their views, the statement noted that the market women lamented how they suffered greatly, saying, especially during raining season the roofs would leak and their goods would get spoilt.

It added that the market women appreciated the administration and urged the council boss to do more

Irepodun South LCDA Provides Operational Vehicles For Parliamentarians, Staff

The leadership of Irepodun South Local Council Development Area, LCDA, Erin-Osun, Osun state has donated operational vehicles to members of the council’s Executive Management Committee and staff of the council to aid the discharge of their official duties.

Apart from the vehicles, the council leadership also donated gift items and cash to widows and aged, with an 18-seater hummer bus to Elerin-In-Council so as to make life better for the people of the town.

The Executive Chairman, Honourable Adekunle Oloyede while presenting the 6 Toyota Camry and Toyota Corolla cars to the parliamentarians posited that his administration would continue to give members of the legislative arm the tools to perform their duties effectively, stressing they are partners in progress.

Oloyede said the GANIYU MARIAM AINA

That I was formerly known and addressed as MISS SULEMAN MARIAM AINA, but now wish to be known and addressed as GANIYU MARIAM AINA. All former documents remain valid. First Bank and General public should take note.

gesture was in furtherance of his commitment and quest of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola’s six-points integral action plan to eradicate poverty at all levels.

He noted that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would continue to ensure that succor is brought to the people particularly at the grassroots, saying these gestures would enhance grassroots and social development.

“This is not the first time our government is providing opportunities by reaching out to our people in this regard. The gesture of this magnitude MRS. EGBINADE ELIZABETH ABAKE

That I was formerly known and addressed as MISS SALAMI ELIZABETH ABAKE, but now wish to be known and addressed as MRS. EGBINADE ELIZABETH ABAKE. All former documents remain valid. First Bank and General public should take note.

was first brought to the people of our Council Development Area, precisely on April 18, this year.

“This is an indication of a purposeful government that is always in alignment with people at the grassroots and committed to bringing the dividends of democracy close to the electorate.

“Our administration will continue to provide the legislature the tools to perform its statutory functions within the limit of the financial resources of Government.”

The council boss then enjoined the people of the area to come out en-mass and cast their vote for APC, during the September 22 gubernatorial election, saying they should ensure the continuity of good governance in the state.

OMOTOSHO OPEYEMI AYODELE

That I was formerly known and addressed as KOLAWOLE OPEYEMI AYODELE, but now wish to be known and addressed as OMOTOSHO OPEYEMI AYODELE. All former documents remain valid.

General public should take note.

towards the development of the council’s economy.

According to the statement, some other projects executed by the administration are, purchase of 300KVA transformer, grading of dilapidated roads in all the five wards in the mother

council, distribution of chemicals and cutlasses to farmers, purchase of brand new Sienna bus for the parliamentarians.

Others, the statement noted are, repair of 50 boreholes in Ejigbo among many others.

his political master and ensure that policies of government are faithfully implemented.

The NULGE President, Comrade Jacob Adeyeye also advised staff members to be punctual and dedicated to their work, just as he hinted that the Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has promised to pay all salary arrears of the workers.

Another speaker, Mrs Oke A. A enlightened the participants on healthy living, urging then to be vigilant and take good care of their health through what they eat and also they should take care of their environment among others.

She said out of the 24 hours in a day, the first 8hours is meant for sleeping, the second is for daily work while the third is for recreation and diversion therapy to reimburse the day’s work.

The NULGE Chairman of Odo-otin South LCDA, Comrade Najeem Adeleke, appreciated the Governor and the council’s authority for their support and participation.

He was optimistic that the training would guarantee change of attitude to work by the council workers.

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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 20, 2018

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A Cocktail Of Recent Happenings Osun Youths Empowerment Scheme (OYES) Cadets Organised Walk To Live Exercise With Governor Rauf Aregbesola In Osogbo Last Weekend.

Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI

In Search For Votes: Parties Mobilise Crowd Of Supporters To Rallies

APC Mega Campaign Rally At Ikire And Ilesa During The Week SDP Governorship Candidate, PHOTOS: GBENGA ADENIYI S Senator Omisore Visits Ilesa

A

•Governor State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (with mic) addressing OYES Cadets members.

OYES Engages Cadets In Endurance Trek

T

By Solomon Odeniyi

HE fourth batch of the Osun Youths Empowerment Scheme volunteers have been engaged in the final phase of the training which included an endurance trek simultaneously held across the state.

The scheme which was conceived as part of the incumbent governor’s six-points integral action plan was launched in 2010 as a way to reduce high rate of unemployment among youth.

Out of over a hundred thousand youths who applied to participate in this year’s scheme 20,000 participants were selected and had since August 27 been camped across the 31 centers spread all over the state.

The camping which lasted for three weeks is meant to break down the young people, mould them, make them responsible to be able to respond to simple instructions, be time conscious and be able to turn out decently among other basic requirements for any human being .

Signaling an end to the exercise is the endurance trek held statewide at the chosen centers. The trek is meant for youths who have been engaged to show their strengths.

Participants at the Osogbo local government commenced their endurance trek at the Saint Charles High school and terminated at the Nelson Mandela freedom park where the participants from the Olorunda local government who took off from the New Fakunle Grammar school joined them.

Joining those at the state capital in the trek, were the Governor, Ogbeni

Aregbesola, his deputy, Titilayo Tomori, Commissioner for Youths and Special Engagement Mrs Mofolake Adegboyega and the flag bearer of the APC for the gubernatorial election, Alhaji Gogbeya Oyetola among others.

Speaking, the governorship Oyetola who described the programme as one of the best things to happen to the state said it has helped to take off the youth from the streets where they could have wrongly dissipated their energies on things that could be of danger to the state by fruitfully engaging them rendering various services to their communities.

Oyetola who appreciated the governor for initiating a programme like the OYES which has been productively engaging youths in the state attributed the relative peace enjoyed so far in the state to the scheme and other youths engagement schemes initiated by the incumbent governor.

The APC flag bearer assured the people of the state that If elected the OYES scheme would be sustained and made better.

Also, Governor Aregbesola who noted that the programme was in strict adherence to his six-point integral action plan described it as the most unique scheme in the whole of the continent.

He said, “By the time we initiated this programme no government in Africa had attempted such a massive empowerment programme . We were mocked when we made the promise of employing 20,000 youths in the first 100 days in office, not knowing we had our plans drawn up two years before the 2007 elections. We have achieved this due to the strict adherence to our plans which we called our pact with the people.

•A cross section of OYES Cadets during the exercise.

•Crowd at the rally towards 22nd of September 2018 governorship election held at St John High School, Ikire. Inset: are from right, Osun APC Governorship candidate, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola; former member House of Representative, Mrs Olubunmi Etteh; member House of representative, Ayo Omidiran; Wife of Governor Aregbesola, Serifat Aregbesola and Governor Rauf Aregbesola.

•Mamoth crowd of APC supporters in Ilesa.

Ward 4, Olorunda LG Street Rally At Oluode, Osogbo

•Olorunda Local Government Woman Leader, Mrs Ibrahim Muslimot, addressing market women at Oluode Market during the Olorunda Ward 4 rally in support of APC gubernatorial candidate, Alhaji Isiaka Gboyega Oyetola last Sunday.

September 22 draw closer for the people of Osun to determine who governs them for the next four years after Governor Rauf Aregbesola tenure ending on November 27, the quests for votes of the people have been turned to carnival.

Across the state, major political parties hold campaign rallies which are honoured by mammoth crowd of their supporters.

Some of the major parties that have controlled large crowd in different degrees during their rallies are the All Progressives Congress (APC), P e o p l e s Democratic Party (PDP), Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Action Democratic Party (ADP).

Judging by the crowds controlled by different political parties, particularly APC some observers have been predicting which of the party might win the election, if such crowd could be mobilised to vote for their candidates.

•Senator Iyiola Omisore during his visit to the palace of Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Adekunle Aromolaran.

•Assemblage of Omisore supporters in Ilesa.

ADP Campaign Rally In Ede

•Supporters of ADP governorship candidate, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti in Ede.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 20, 2018

NEWS

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IPAC Exco Disowns Chairman Over Dirty Deals him and faulted his actions. He accepted his faults, apologised and promised never to do such again.

“Unanimously, members of the council accepted his apology and forgave him. Not quite two months after the APC guber primaries, Dr. Omidiji has committed another error. This time around, he was

pictorially caught having a strategic and crucial meeting with the representative of the governorship candidate of the Action Democratic Party, in person of the former Commissioner of Information, Hon. Oluomo Sunday Akere.

“This uncultured action made IPAC exco to summon him again to defend himself, but

instead of yielding to the council’s summon, he started blackmailing some members of the council, the act of which is less expected of a Chairman of the Council.

“In her own, the Treasure, of the council, Mrs Sarah Elujulo urged the executive to alert the National headquarter of the group, with a view to stopping relationship

with him pending the conclusion of the council’s investigations on the matter.

Subsequently, the executive members of the council resolved to inform the national body about Omidiji’s misdeeds, just as they passed vote of no confidence on him.

Governorship candidate of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) in the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Osun, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti has charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the need to rise above board by ensuring that the September 22 governorship poll is free and fair.

The ADP flagbearer in the election stated this of its primary assignment during a chat with of conducting a credible members of a Lagos- governorship election in based human rights the state on September 22, group, Eyes for 2018.

According to the ADP Democracy (ED), who recently paid a courtesy gubernatorial candidate, visit to him at his all eyes are currently on campaign office in the state in view of the Osogbo, the state capital. state’s strategic position As contained in a in the political landscape statement issued and of the South West geosigned by the Director of political zone of the Media and Publicity of country.

While welcoming Moshood Adeoti Campaign Organization members of the civil rights group to his (MACO), Mr Kayode Agbaje, Adeoti stressed campaign office, Alhaji the need for the electoral Adeoti thanked them for umpire to remain their group’s interest in impartial in the discharge his aspiration and assured

that the state would witness further development on his assumption of office once elected and sworn-in on November 27, 2018 as governor of the state.

“I wish to use the opportunity of your visit to charge INEC, the electoral umpire on the need to rise above board by conducting a free and fair governorship poll on September 22.

“This call has become necessary in view of the strategic position of the state in the political landscape of the South West geo-political zone of the country.

“INEC must also come to term with the reality that all eyes are on the state, including those of the members of the i n t e r n a t i o n a l community,” Adeoti

stated.

The ADP flagbearer further used the occasion to assure his teeming supporters across all political parties in the state that he nurses no plan to go back to the ruling-All Progressives Congress (APC) once elected as governor in the fast-approaching gubernatorial election.

“I want to state it for the umpteenth time and put the rumour monger to shame once and for all that I have no plan to leave the ADP and go back to the ruling-APC once elected.

“This is a lie from the pit of hell, especially my political detractors, who are bent on painting me as an inconsistent and selfcentered politician.

“This time, like numerous occasions

before now, they have failed woefully,” Adeoti emphasised.

Earlier, on the occasion of the courtesy visit, the ED National Coordinator, Comrade James Nonso Okechukwu stated that his group’s mission in the state was to ensure a v i o l e n c e - f r e e governorship election through visits and appeal to various stakeholders to play the game by the rules.

The civil rights group’s leader also assured the ADP candidate to take his message to INEC leadership both at the state and national levels.

“I want to assure you that your charge to INEC would not just stop here, as we would take it even to the national and state levels of INEC,” Okechukwu assured.

By Israel Afolabi Executive members, Osun Interparty Advisory Council (IPAC) has passed vote of no confidence on its chairman, Dr. Idowu Omidiji for using the platform to negotiate for his own interest.

The council accused Omidiji of single handedly using the platform to negotiate with the governorship candidates of PDP, Senator Ademola Adeleke, ADP, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti and SDP, Dr. Iyiola Omisore, despite the fact that 48 political parties contesting the election in the state are all members of the council.

At a meeting presided over by the IPAC Vice Chairman, Alh. Rafiu Anifowose during the week, the council accused Omidiji of working against the organisation’s Code of Conduct which he described as the Council’s Constitution.

Also, Dr. Gbenga Afeni, IPAC General Secretary berated Omidiji’s action and described it as undemocratic, selfish and unconstitutional.

According to him, “When we first heard that Dr. Omidiji, the current Osun IPAC Chairman also the State Chairman of UPP was caught having an

unconstitutional meeting with one of the APC guber aspirants, Engr.

Adelere Oriowo before the APC primaries under the platform of IPAC, we called him, interrogated

Osun 2018: Adeoti Tasks INEC On Credible Poll

PERSPECTIVE

Osun Market Women Shower Encomiums On Aregbesola Association of Market Women is not left out in the appreciation of Governor Rauf Aregbesola of the State of Osun for his developmental strides, especially on the boost recorded in commercial activities across the state. SOLA JACOBS has the collection of views of some Iyalojas in the state.

--- Alhaja Awawu Oyebamiji Asindemade J.P, Iyaloja General, State of Osun.

Appreciation is our word, as the Yoruba adage says, gratitude will ever determine ones attitude. Eight years ago, God sent a messiah in form of man in Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola to the generality of the people of Osun, though it was not a smooth journey, but the mandate was received which is the joy of the downtrodden.

Immediately Governor Aregbesola was sworn in as the executive Governor of the state, we, women who had been regarded as flotsam and jetsam of the society become his friend. What a true face of democracy and the government of the common people!

Market men and women, artisans, farmers and the downtrodden then had the opportunity of not only being informed about government activities but are also involved in the efforts to generate income, address challenges towards the development of our state.

The 90 days emergency declared in the sanitation sector to rid our markets of filth and save us from outbreak of perennial diseases and channelisation of our drainages puts an end to annual flood disaster through which many have lost properties and lives.

An average market woman in the state becomes more aware of nature and all that could affect harmonious living of man with nature. We become more conscious of the adage that health is wealth, as hardwork becomes our constant practice in and out of the market.

We are sensitised about revenue generation through tax and levies as our civic responsibility, if we want the government to provide us with infrastructure and take good care of us, its citizens.

Moreso, the common people know the challenges, the limitations and the prospects of government through constant workshops and seminars, which broadens and deepen our knowledge about good governance. In these eight years, we are refined, finesse and polished, as we could say we are educated in truth and in spirit.

Therefore, we can not but appreciate you.

--- Alhaja Fausat Oyinlade, Iyaloja Ifelodun Ikirun.

Alhaja Falilat Bello, the Iyaloja of Isokan and the

sumptuous meal to children of common people, as well as good roads networks across the state are testimonies.

Also, the staff loan given to us without any interest and collateral had boosted our business and we are full of gratitude.

Ogbeni Aregbesola holds us in high esteem, we have not have it as good as this and we pray that God will promote him.

•Alhaja Asindemade

Immediately Governor Aregbesola was sworn in as the executive Governor of the state, we, women who had been regarded as flotsam and jetsam of the society become his friend.

Secretary-General of the market women in the state said, Ogbeni’s tenure cannot be quantified or measured, as he had done tremendously well, both in human, capital and infrastructural development, despite the meager resources accrued to the state.

She continued, “No government in Osun had given buses to Iyaloja in the 33 local governments of the state, Ogbeni did!

The O’meal programme that gives free quality and

--- Alhaja Sikiratu Adekola, Iyaloja Oja-Oba, Osogbo.

Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola, tried so much for us, he brought us from obscurity to the limelight, and now, we know that power reside with common people who are in the majority.

Suddenly, the market women and men become beautiful bride that everybody wants to woo. His administration had broadened our knowledge and we now know that good governance is about developing people, infrastructure and secure lives and properties.

Osogbo the state capital suddenly transformed from glorified local government headquarters to a state capital.

Ogbeni God will lift you more, ese a dupe o --- Chief Mrs. Olufunmilayo Ogunrinola, Iyaloja Ife Governor Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola deserves our prayers as mother, as he had given us voice in the governance of the state.

We are more enlightened, sensitize and he is the one that makes us to know what good governance entails.

My prayer is that, you shall live long, in good health and know no sorrow. Wa a goke si, thanks very much.

--- Chief Mrs. Hannah Awe, Iyaloja Atakumosa, Osu. Our dear governor, Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola, we are proud of you as a true son of Ijesaland and our amiable governor.

We appreciate you, as you have promoted us, the market men and women across the state. Ogbeni, we urge you to do more within the short time left for your administration, particularly on the construction of new Atakumosa market which you promised and we believe you can do it.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 20, 2018

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Credible Election Duty For Us All - OSMC

By Sikiru Obarayese Osun State Muslim Community (OSMC) has charged electoral umpire, security operatives, the media and the electorate to play their roles in a manner that will ensure credible election in Osun on September 22 elecetion.

This was contained in a communique issued at the end of the Colloquium held as part of activities herathy the new Hijra year 1440AH. The communique was signed by the President and Secretary, Alh. Mustafa Olawuyi, Alh. Abdul-Ganiy Akeredolu at the OSMC Secretariat in Osogbo recently.

At the Colloquium, themed: Election Malpractices: Causes, Effects and Islamic Solutions, the Muslims leaders concluded that Muslims should partake fully in the forthcoming September 22nd gubernatorial election in the state by voting for candidates of their choice.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the umpire in the election was charged to ensure that credible election is conducted during the poll.

Parents and guardians were also charged to guide their children from being used as political thugs.

The Muslims delegates commended Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s Government for ensuring peaceful atmosphere in the state for the past seven and half years of his administration.

According to the

communique, the Muslims community called for credible election, saying the results of the election should not be manipulated at any level so as to prevent post-election crises.

The community also said security personnel, Media and INEC should take proactive measure to curb vote buying and fraudulent activities during the election period.

OSMC called on INEC to create platform for vulnerables including the physically challenged, the aged, for them to be given due consideration at polling centres.

The delegates also urged every candidate to accept the outcome of the election in the spirit of sportsmanship.

Meanwhile, the weeklong activities marking Hijra 1440 Islamic calendar came to the climax at the city Stadium, Osogbo last Tuesday where the State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola tasked muslims to be good citizens.

In his address, Aregbesola said muslims celebrate all Islamic festivals to remind themselves of being muslims and to keep to the tenents of Islam.

Islam, according to the governor, demands that all muslims must be good to their neighbours.

In his lecture on Good Governance, Procedure and Processes: Islamic perspective, Dr.

road, food, affordable housing, education and health services.

Bolarinwa emphasized that Islamically, leadership is a trust (amana) which must be adhere to “A leader should be conscious of his duty and the associated responsibility especially the fact that he is answerable not only to the people he is serving but also the creator of both” he stressed.

Ido-Oko Ijesa Multipurpose town hall, while receiving Oyintiloye and his team for the second phase of his seventh edition of E m p o w e r m e n t Programme for all Wards across Obokun.

In the joint pronouncement which was led by the APC’ Chairmen in Obokun East LCDA and Obokun LGA, Alhaji Ismaila Kehinde and Alhaji Olamijulo Oladimeji described the lawmaker as a performing representative, adding that their belief in the APC remains undiluted.

During the event, the lawmaker distributed several farming tools and equipments, cash gifts as well as materials for domestic use to the people.

Among the traditional rulers at the programme were, the Ado Oko of IdoOko Ijesa, Oba Micheal Adeyemi; Lupasi of Ipasi, Oba Ezekiel Alaba

Oludare; Ajaregbe of Ijaregbe, Oba Edward Adetimo; Onileayo of Ileayo, Oba Oluwabunmi Adelowo; Onibala of Ibala, Oba Amb. Adegboyega Ariyo.

Among political functionaries present were, Chairman, Oriade Local Government, Hon. Bunmi Obeisun; Vice Chairman, Obokun Local Government, Hon. Tunde Isaac; Prince Ademola Adeyeye and Barrister Dupe Gbadebo among others.

Others Senatorial Vice Chairman, Hon. Ajibola Ademola, Mrs Funke Ajayi among others.

In his speech, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye described the ancient town as a progressives’ town, adding that it is known for voting and supporting the APC. He expressed his appreciation and promised to always ensure that the town is not left behind in terms of government benefits and development.

Constituents Reaffirm Support For Oyintiloye, APC

By Solomon Odeniyi Indigenes and residents of Ido-Oko, Ile Ayo, Ibala, Eesun, Ijana, Ayegunle, Ijaregbe and members of All Progressives Congress in Obokun State Constituency have reaffirmed their support for the lawmaker representing them, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye and the party.

They made the declaration recently at the

•Oyintiloye, being assisted by some traditional rulers and party leaders in Obokun local government to present farm implement and other empowerment materials to his constituents in Ipetu-Ile.

Your PVC Is Your Power Let me start with a personal experience. I was a media handler to one of the candidates contesting to govern one of the states in the south east in 2013, Anambra to be precise. The candidate, a business mogul, was very popular especially among the youths, who happen to hold the ace in electoral victory in any space. Of course, judging by his youthful age then, he was certainly one of them. He had everything to his advantage, or so it seemed then. What with the deep pockets which included the dollar to spend and also the youthful energy? As a media aid to him, I accompanied him to traverse the nooks and crannies of the state including villages and suburban cities and towns. We even went as far as neighboring and some other states where we knew we could convince the indigenes of our candidate’s state living in those states to vote for him. Much was spent on “mobilization” and of course, this couldn’t be a problem since my principal had a very deep pocket…perhaps deeper than other candidates and he was not one to shy away from flaunting it. His country home, which was the de facto campaign head office was always a beehive of activities from when the campaigns commenced and afterwards, days and nights. We were more than sure that he was going to win judging by the crowds everywhere we went, to campaign. Every clergy, traditional ruler, community leader and so on assured our candidate. So, we thought we were good to go to the polls and win.

On the day of the poll, one of the first things that surprised us was that at every polling booth, the queues were far lower than our expectation. Voters were in trickles, contrary to what obtained during all campaign rallies. It was as if the whole communities were deserted.

What could have gone wrong? The weather was clement, no harassment from security agents and it was a public holiday declared for the sole purpose of the Election Day. It was a deep puzzle. Well, votes were cast and election result was declared and your guess is as good as mine.

He lost.

I replayed the whole scenario in my mind, right from the early days even before my candidate declared his intent, in which various socio-cultural and business communities pledged their support, down to

Kamorudeen Bolarinwa of the Nigerian French Village, Badagry, stated that society has embraced democracy as the best form of government but admonished leaders to endeavour to implement manifestoes upon which they are elected.

To him, good governance must ensure protection of life and property, provision of social amenities to include

Truth Of The Matter with

AYEKOOTO ayoakinola444@gmail.com

Politics is a game of numbers. And the only way this game could be played and won legally is by possession of valid PVC and use use on election day. It is your power, your weapon to vote in or vote out whomsoever you wish. commencement of campaigns, the huge crowds so difficult to control that bestrode all campaigns, up until the eve of the Election Day. I couldn’t fathom where we went wrong. All of us at the situation room were in the cold like the chicken that fell into a pool of water and struggling to get out to safety. Money was spent lavishly, we had the best manifesto, or so we thought. But one thing was missing in our campaign pitch: we took it for granted that every eligible voter had a Permanent

Voter’s Card, or PVC. We took it for granted that everyone in the crowd who showed love for our candidate was a potential voter, even without asking whether he or she is eligible, through possession of the PVC. The crowds were our mega-assurance. We neglected, to our undoing, the most important item, without which a vote can be cast: The Almighty PVC! It is regrettable that a lot of people do not collect their voter’s card even when they register to have one; many even collect it not for the purpose of voting but for other reasons like access to public utilities. You can hail your candidate, speak well of him, support him in whatever way you deem possible but you are a total waste if you do not translate these activities into countable votes on election day. It makes me remember the popular saying that politics is a game of numbers. And the only way this game could be played and won legally is by possession of valid PVC and use on election day. It is your power, your weapon to vote in or vote out whomsoever you wish. It is free and your only qualifications are your age and sanity. Democracy is so good that it is the only and best form of government that allows full participation. You are very important in the democratic process inasmuch as you possess your personal PVC. Do not sell it or exchange it for other benefits. Doing so will only mean you’ve sold your birthright as did the biblical Esau.

So, when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) claimed that Osun has 410,832 unclaimed Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) barely one week to the governorship election, it was a very sad commentary.

Hopefully, Osun voters will do everything possible to go claim their PVCs towards voting on September 22, 2018 as the only guarantee to exercise their civil rights. The INEC as well as all political parties are enjoined to mobilize on this.

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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 20, 2018

Igbajo Polytechnic Gets New Rector, Registrar The Board of Trustees of Igbajo Polytechnic , in Osun State and she is Igbajo, has announced the appointment of officials married with children.

The two appointees have into two principal positions in the institution. since resumed duty on They are Dr. (Mrs.) Ibadan.

Christiana O. Odejide She is a native of Ilesa Monday Sept. 3rd 2018. who fills the vacant position of the Rector of the institution and Mrs. Bukola F. Odetola who was appointed as Registrar (a position in which she has been acting before).

The institution, it would be recalled is the first Community polytechnic to be accredited in Nigeria and it has been training students that have been partaking in the National Youth Service (NYSC) scheme for some years now.

The announcement of the appointments was contained in a release signed by Engr Akin Rotimi who is the Secretary to the Board of

By Oluwapelumi Fasoyin Trustees of the Management of the Federal Polytechnic Offa, institution.

Prior to her Kwara State has begun the sales of application appointment, Dr (Mrs) forms for admission into its Part-Time Odejide worked as Senior Principal Lecturer, Programmes for the 2018/2019 academic session.

According to a release by the management, Director and Head of Department of Physical applicants must have not more than two (2) and Health Education at SSCE, GCE O’ level with sittings before a the Osun State College of at least five (5) credit successful admission.

Education , Ila Orangun The release said, programme of University passes in relevant including interested applicants are of Uyo. She graduated subjects from the University of English Language and to apply online for the Benin and University of Mathematics obtained at Part-Time ND and HND

Meanwhile, the long awaited accreditation and re-accreditation of courses offered by the institution by the National Board for Technical Education ( NBTE ) has been concluded.

The thirty five (35) man strong NBTE team from Kaduna were at the institution between 15 and 18th August,2018.

The team led by one of its Directors, Dr Garba Nalardo comprising technical experts and resource persons from several Federal polytechnics and renowned institutions across the country expressed satisfaction

with the Calibre of personnel and level of infrastructural developments/ equipments attained by the institution within its short time of existence.

Reaccreditation was done for the National Diploma (ND) Accountancy currently offered by the institution while full accreditation was done for National Diploma (ND) courses

i n C o m p u t e r E n g i n e e r i n g a n d B u s i n e s s Administration. The following Higher National Diploma (HND) courses were also considered for Full Accreditation. They are HND – Accounting, HND Microbiology, HND PhysicswithElectronics,HNDComputer Science and HND - Statistics.

FEDPOFFA Begins Sales Of HND, ND Part Time Forms programmes, through the Polytechnic’s portal: www.fpo.edu.ng, to fill application form and subsequently make payment of N15,000 for application form.

Noting that no other charges would be required, the management stressed that payment will be made with an ATM card that is inter-switch

compatible.

It added that candidates are to also upload scanned copy of their certificate (s)/ result(s) and other required documents as stated online on the school portal.

“All candidates will be duly informed of the screening date through either their phone and/ or e-mail address.

“The sale and submission of Federal Polytechnic Offa ND part time application form will end on 22nd, September, 2018.

“So, candidates who want to benefit from the programme are advised to apply for the form before the closing date”, the management added.

NMA Calls For Improvement In Nigeria's Health Care Provision The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has observed that fragmentation, provision of basic health care services, management of staff, funds and other resources are the most significant problems facing the country’s Primary Health Care (PHC) implementation.

It also observed that a lot of hardship has been brought upon many Nigerians by illegal medical quackery practice and the attendant complications occasions by the unhealthy care received.

This observation formed part of the communiqué jointly signed by Doctors Francis Adedayo Faduyile and Odusote Peter Olumuyiwa, the NMA President and Secretary General and issued at the end of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Osogbo, recently.

The medical doctors urged the government to ensure that various funds voted to finance Primary Health Care in Nigeria is judiciously managed and that appropriate steps should be taken to improve on the infrastructure, social amenities and the economy of the Nation.

The communiqué added that the brain drain experienced in the country would be tackled when government improves on salaries and welfare of health professionals thereby enhancing retention of health personnel.

In ensuring professionalism and improved health care, the union affirmed that Doctor’s stamp would be used as an anti-quackery measure.

“There should be vigilance on the part of the public and patients. The public should insist on Doctor’s stamp

on their medical records”.

NMA also reaffirmed its support for the implementation of Patients’ Bill of Rights recently launched by the Federal Government and pushed for the consideration of introduction of Healthcare Workers’ Bill of Rights.

The meeting was declared open by Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, the governor of the State of Osun who was

represented by his Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Olugbenga Oyinlola and the theme of the meeting was, “Alma Ata Declaration on Primary Health Care: Nigeria Scorecard 40 Years After”, while the sub-themes were, “Stemming The Tide of Brain Drain in the Nigerian Health Sector: The Role of Well Equipped

Hospitals and Healthcare Workers’ Bill Welfare and Combating Quackery in Medical Practice and NMA Strategic Plan.

Gastroenteritis or infectious diarrhea is a medical condition from inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract that involves both the stomach and the small intestine.

It causes some combination of diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain and cramping. Dehydration may occur as a result.

Most cases of the infection in Nigeria are caused by Rotavirus. In adults, Norovirus and Campylobacter.

Gastroenteritis typically involves both diarrhea and vomiting. Signs and symptoms usually begin 12-72 hours after contracting the infectious agent.

If due to a viral agent, the condition usually resolves within one week.

Some viral causes may be associated with: 1. Fever 2. Fatigue 3. Headache 4. Muscle pain Some bacterial infections may be associated with severe abdominal pain which may persist for several weeks.

Symptoms of Gastroenteritis With Gastroenteritis, the main symptoms probably have watery diarrhea and vomiting, stomach pain,

cramping, fever, nausea and headache.

Causes There are many ways Gastroenteritis can be spread. These are contact with someone who has the virus, contaminated food or water, unwashed hands after going to the bathroom or toilet.

The most common cause of Gastroenteritis is a virus. The main types are rotavirus and norovirus.

Bacteria such as Salmonella, Campylobacte, Shigella species are also causes of gastroenteritis.

Other unusual ways of getting Gastroenteritis are: through ingestion of heavy metals in drinking water, eating a lot of acidic foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes, toxins found in sea foods and medications such as antibiotics, antacids, laxatives and chemotherapy drugs

With

FRANCIS EZEDIUNO

Gastroenteritis: Causes And Symptoms

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 20, 2018

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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 20, 2018

Governorship Poll: Osun Former Speaker Warns Against Vote Buying

By Israel Afolabi

According to him, “INEC should not in any way favour any political party if they do not want anarchy in the state”.

The former lawmaker advised all eligible voters to ensure that they

A former Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adejare Bello has warned politician across the country to desist from the habit of vote buying.

Bello revealed this to forthcoming election in OSUN DEFENDER the state.

Reporter last weekend while speaking at a function in his Ede home town in the state.

He frowned at vote

By Solomon Odeniyi buying syndrome which The Director General of the National Directorate has become rampant among electorates and of Employment (NDE), Dr. Nasir Mohammed Ladan has called on all unemployed persons in Nigeria, money bag politics.

He said, “I will advises especially youths, women and people with special that the electorate should needs to key into various intervention programmes not collect money for of the federal government.

According to him, the sector operators, who are voting, they should be being key factors in the judged by their programmes anchored by the NDE implementation of Skillconscience”.

He observed that vote were aimed at job for-Job component of buying is a threat to creation, poverty Youth Employment and democracy that could reduction and Social Support Operation deprive the country of sustainable livelihood. ( YESSO). good governance despite He stated this in Dr. Ladan, seized the number of years of Oshogbo, while speaking opportunity of the democracy. through, Mrs. Rosalyn interactive forum to He urges Independent Olaomi, the programme inform them, that YESSO National Electoral focal person, at a day was introduced by the Commission [INEC] not stakeholders forum World Bank to support to favour any political party during the organised for private the states with verifiable

discharged their civic responsibility by participating in the electoral process.

He added that money is good but good governance is better than money that is meant for

short term.

He warned that the next gubernatorial election in the state should be violence-free for the state to maintain the most peaceful state it is known for in recent

times.

Bello urged all relevant stakeholders to handle it with the spirit of sportsmanship rather than see it as do or die matters.

social safety net systems to reduce vulnerability of youth and women of poor households.

The NDE DG, expressed delight at the government of the state of Osun for being a key partner in the implementation of the World Bank assisted YESSO operation.

According to Dr. Ladan “ it is on record that the state government, through the creation of O’YES has made an indelible mark in the quest to change the living condition of the citizenry from poverty to prosperity, having

successfully completed the Community Based Targeting (CBT) exercises, through the enrollment of most of the communities in the single Register “.

He said, the need for such intervention cannot be over emphasized, because of deteriorating welfare status of Nigerians, especially the poor and the vulnerable.

He commended the state Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, for his g o v e r n m e n t commitments to reduce the twin problem of poverty and unemployment.

The NDE DG, outlined the expected

responsibility of the private sector operators, which include providing mentorship and internship for the trainee (interns).

He said the interactive forum would further provide opportunity to set framework for the development of a memorandum between the participating government and private sector operators.

The skill for job project, according to him, is now being implemented in eight pilot states in Nigeria, while the World Bank is planning to increase the coverage to other states of the federation.

FG Intervention Programmes 'll Curb Unemployment - NDE

Osun 2018: Eschew Political Violence, Oluwo Appeals To Political Supporters

By Sikiru Obarayese

•Group photograph of participants at a one day stakeholders forum with the National S4J Team and FOCU representative recently held in Osogbo.

Osun Residents Encouraged To Collect PVCs

By Israel Afolabi A call has gone to the entire people of the state of Osun to embark on collection of their Permanent Voters Card, PVC which would enable them to cast their vote during election period.

The leader of the Peace the importance of having and Reconciliation the PVC as the only Committee for Ileri-Oluwa weapon to vote strongly Campaign Organisation in appealed to electorates to the State, Sooko Adeleke troop out enmasse for the Adewoyin made this call collection at the nearest during the constituency INEC office to them before tour of the committee to it is late.

The former Deputy some areas in the state.

Adewoyin, who noted Governor in the state who AWORINDE WASIU TUNDE

That I was formerly known and addressed as AWORINDE WASIU, but now wish to be known and addressed as AWORINDE WASIU TUNDE. All former documents remain valid. Diamond Bank and General public should take note.

OLATUNJI KEHINDE JELILAT

That OLATUNJI KEHINDE JELILAT is the same person as ADEDIRAN KEHINDE KIKE but now wish to be known and addressed as OLATUNJI KEHINDE JELILAT. All former documents remain valid. First Bank, Wema bank and General public should take note.

was addressing teeming supporters of the All Progressives Congress, APC in Obokun, Ijesha and Ife zones as well as Boripe, Ifelodun and OdoOtin local government area of the state, enjoined the people to demonstrate their unflinching support to the governorship candidate of the party, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola.

Adewoyin, and other members of the committee at the meeting, said the GANIYU AFEEZ OLASUNKANMI

That I was formerly known and addressed as GANIYU AFEEZ OPEYEMI, but now wish to be known and addressed as GANIYU AFEEZ OLASUNKANMI. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

leaders support across the state to the victory of the party’s candidate during the governorship election cannot be over emphasised, saying “we must come together as a one family in ensuring victory for our party”.

While speaking with Newsmen shortly after the committee’s visit, a committed member of the Committee, the General Manager, Osun Road Maintenance Agency, ORMA, Engr Mathew Olowokere, emphasised that, the incumbent government in the state has turn around the fortune of the state in the area of construction, rehabilitation and maintenance of roads which is now calling for the unalloyed support of the entire people of the state for the continuation of the good work.

Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba (Dr.) AbdulRasheed Adewale Akanbi, has admonished supporters of various political parties to exercise maturity in their conducts before, during and after the September 22 governorship election in the state.

Oba Akanbi warned takes few hours to electorates especially his destroy what they immediate subjects in laboured for years” “Iwo is an ancient city Iwo to respect political value devoid of violence, known for peace and noting that the world is respect for truth. Past advanced beyond experience is a lesson. No launching attack on arson and violence will tolerated.

I’m opponent to express be appealing now because dissatisfaction.

In a statement by his to be forewarned is to press secretary, Alli avoid falling on trap.

Ibraheem, the monarch Neither life nor house is condemned political worth to be sacrificed for violence in its totality, any politician” calling on leaders of “I implored you to be various political parties focused, aim high and to re-orientate their pursue your dream to the members to embrace the fullest rather than allow culture of peaceful yourself to be used as election. political instrument of The statement notes destruction” “I’m appealing to the “Political violence is an electorates to respect the affront on democracy. rules of election, eschew The federal government political violence, display has strengthened the spirit of sportsmanship security agencies to and maturity for a decimate, address and peaceful exercise. Any instituted a severe grievances should be penalty for any Nigerian directed to law culpable of disrupting enforcement agencies. public peace before, No one is immune to law. during and after every The best route to peaceful poll” poll is respect for the Oba Akanbi said no rules and regulations of complaint will be the game” tolerated should anyone “Election is a platform still found culpable of to elect leaders. A nation violence after the appeal. bedeviled with violence, The monarch assured arson and maiming in the process of electing her his subjects of utmost leaders will never protection as he urged proceed solely because it them to be law abiding.

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 20, 2018

CRIME

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Police Arraign Iwo Arson Suspects

By Toheeb Badmus and Sukurat Adewumi Osun State Police Command has arraigned 28 persons before an Osogbo Magistrate Court over their alleged involvement in the burning of a police station in Iwo recently.

Ajayi The suspects are Mudashiru, Wasiu Raheem Adewale, Lateef Micheal, Adeyemi Oluwafemi, Ishola Jimoh, Sulaiman, Mathew Kazeem Rafiu, kabiru Buhari,

Tochukwu, Tela Akeem, Kamoli Dudu, Arioye Saheed, Adeniyi Mohammed, Basiru Mutairu and M u h a m m e d Abdulraheem.

Others are Petu Jimoh, Ibraheem Adeyemi, Kamoru Adisa, Samatu

Ahmed, Saheed Adisa, Adetoye Wasiu, Alao Timilehin, Obele Adeyemi, Jimoh Sodiq, Adiamo Abdullahi, Obele Adekunle, Oladunjoye Issac Abiodun and Owoade Yekini.

The suspects were

ENVIROMENTAL CONSCIOUSNESS

•Clerk of the State of Osun House of Assembly, Mr Simeon Amusan (left) with other members of Osun House of Assembly performeing the Thursday sanitation at the state Assembly premises.

Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI

Man Docked Over Alleged Fraud

By Taiwo Emmanuel criminal code cap 34 vol. two sureties. The sureties must be civil servant of A 41-year-old man, Abeeb Owolabi was arraigned 11 laws of Osun state of Grade level 6 above and before a Magistrate Court in Osogbo for alleged Nigeria, 2003.

However, the suspect swear to affidavit of fraud. pleaded not guilty to the means, adding that the The suspect was defendant committed the charges preferred against investigative police docked on September 5, offence on January 7, him. officer should verify the 2018, for allegedly 2014 at about 6pm at The Magistrate A.A address of the sureties. obtaining the sum of Sabo area Osogbo and Olowolagba granted bail The case was N1,100,000 from thereby committed the adjourned till October 10, Adetunji Adelabu under offence contrary to to the defendant in the 2018 for hearing. the pretence of selling section 419 of the sum of N2,000,000 with one Toyota Corolla Saloon car to him which he failed to do and converted the money to his own use.

The Prosdecutor, Sergeant Fatoba Temitope said the She added that the

By Olarotimi Joseph defendant on January 15, Two suspects, Lateef Ajetunmobi, 43 and Suraju suspects must produce 2014 at about 10: 00am at one surety each and Sabo Area, Osogbo Yekini, 33 have been arraigned before a Magistrate swear to an affidavit of Court in Osogbo over alleged stealing of 2,514 pieces forged the receipt of one means, produce three Lola Decency Motor of chickens. liberal terms saying they passport photographs, The prosecutor, would not abused the bail three years of tax Nigeria Limited Elisha of granted Kilometer 4 Camp Inspector payment and address to Junction, new Ikirun Olusegun explained that The magistrate, Mrs. be confirmed. road, Osogbo with the the accused person and Fatimoh Sodamade The case was intent that it would be others at large stole the granted the bail with the adjourned to October 10, acted upon as genuine chickens valued N3, sum of N500,000.

2018. and issue same as the 016,800.

He added that the Manager of the company to Adetunji Adelabu and accused person also stole thereby committed an another 40 pieces of offence contrary to and chickens valued N52,000

By Uwaiye Janet punishable under section He said the chickens Osun State Police Command has arraigned one 467 (i) of the criminal belong to one Mr. Akosu man Okeleye Wale, 34, before an Osogbo code cap 34 vol. 11 law of Samuel. osun state of Nigeria, The prosecutor stated Magisterate Court over alleged stealing of cables 2003.

The suspect was properties from him and that the offence He said the defendant contravenes section 427 of docked on Tuesday thereby committed an on the same date forged the criminal code cap 34 September 5, 2018, over offence contrary to and sales agreement/ cash vol. 11 laws of Osun state alleged stealing of cable punishable under section receipt with intent that it of Nigeria, 2002. wire worth N700,000, 427 of criminal code Cap would be acted upon as He informed the court sliding windows worth 34 Vol.11 Laws of Osun genuine and issued same that the suspect N800,000, six sets of air State Nigeria 2003. as the Manager of the committed the offence on conditioner worth He added that the company to one Adetunji May and August 2018, at N510,000 and pumping accused persons Adelabu and thereby Olu farm limited Osogbo. machine worth N60,000 committed the offence on committed the offence The two suspects from one Timothy Aug 10, 2018 at Lakanye contrary to and not guilty to the Ayodele.

Estate, Osogbo at about punishable under section pleaded charges preferred against The prosecutor, 11:30 pm 467 (1) of the criminal them.

Inspector Jafani Muslim He further said that the code cap 34 vol. 11 laws The defence counsel, explained that Musa Ado offence committed is of the Osun state Nigeria, A.O. Emmanuel urged 18, Jubril Abdullahi 28, contrary to section 383 2003.

The prosecutor,also the court to grant the and Awalu Muhammed and punishable under told the court that the suspects bail in the most 18, received the stolen sections 390 (9) of

Two Men Arraigned Over Alleged Stealing Of Chickens Worth N3million

arraigned on 17 count charges bothering on arson, malicious damage of police properties, assault, unlawful assembly, riot and stealing among others.

The crime allegedly committed by the suspects, the medium gathered, was the consequence of the killing of one Babatunde Nafiu, a student of Osun State Polytechnic Iree by an official of Special AntiCrime Robbery Squad (SARS) in Iwo, recently.

The prosecutor, Inspector Mustapha Tajudeen, informed the court that the accused persons allegedly committed the offence on August 24 at around 10:30pm at Iwo. He further stated that they conspired to set

ablaze a police Area command office and its quarters which led to unlawful damage of Police Patrol Vehicles with reg no NPF 446D, NPF 38C, SAS 05, NPF 7619, and SUV Jeep with registration number GGC 281 GE valued N3.4 million and other items.

The suspect pleaded guilty to the charges against them.

The defence counsel, Mr. Taofeek Telowogbade urged the court to admit his clients to bail in the most liberal terms.

The Magistrate, Fatimoh Sodamade, granted the accused persons bail in the sum of N500,000 with one surety each.

The magistrate adjourned the case till October 8 for hearing.

Man Accused Of N5.3m Fraud Remanded

By Miracle Imohimi And Bayo Ogungbe A 35-year-old Musibau Muhideen was arraigned before a Magistrate Court sitting in Osogbo for allegedly defrauding Osun State Investment Company to the tune of N5,035,168 under the pretence of selling the company’s goods.

Musibau who was also section 390(6) of criminal an agent in the said code cap of 249(d) vol.II company was docked on laws of Osun State of two court charges of Nigeria 2003.

The accused pleaded fraud and stealing.

The prosecutor, not guilty to the charges alleged against him Inspector Sunday Ajayi told the court that the claiming he did not know accused person how the money got missing. fraudulently obtained the The defence counsel, company’s product such Taiwo Awokunle applied as milo, milks, magi, for the bail of the accused nido, tea, conflates and person. cerelac worth a sum of However, the N5,035,168 with the Presiding Magistrate, pretence to sell same and M.O Awodele said the remit the proceeds into former bail of the accused the company’s account should be filed and the but converted the money accused person is to be to his own use. remanded in Ilesa He added that the two prison.

The case was offences are contrary and punishable under section adjourned to 29th of 2018 for 419 of criminal code cap October 34 vol. II and under settlement.

Four Men Arraigned Over Alleged Stealing Of Cables Criminal Code Cap 34 VOL.II laws of Osun States of Nigeria 2003.

The accused person pleaded not guilty The Presiding Magistrate, Fatimoh Sodamade granted the accused bail in the sum of N500,000 with one surety, adding that the surety should swear to an affidavit of means.

She added that the second, third and fourth accused persons should get written recommendations from the leader of Hausa Community in the state capital.

The case was

adjourned to October 3 ,2018 for mention.

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Police Arraign Iwo Arson Suspects Page 15

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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 14 - THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 20, 2018

Osun: To Make Or To Mar Reading “Re: Osun: Looking back, looking forward” (The Nation, August 14), former Osun Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola’s riposte to “Osun: Looking back, looking forward” (Republican Ripples, August 8), you can’t but treat, with renewed respect, the Okuku prince.

Oyinlola felt Ripples was unfair, by that unflattering analysis, which asserted Oyin left Osun in ruins.

He launched a trenchant counter, reeling out his government’s achievements — Osun State University, Osun Government House, Osun House, Abuja, ending the Ife-Modakeke bloody feud, etc.

But the renewed respect is not for his claims. Those, anyone can juxtapose with the Aregbesola era — and judge the better or the worse. It is rather for the civility of his riposte. That’s how public discourse should go.

Oyinlola, a past PDP governor, at least flaunted some achievements. But Ademola Adeleke, PDP c a n d i d a t e for September 22, and future governor if he wins — what might he flaunt after?

Bland and banal — witness the big question over his education; and legitimate worries over the analytical quality of his mind — his campaign message is shallow and hollow.

Indeed, his banality powers a ghoulish sense of entitlement, that cynically throws the dead in your face. Or why else does the late Serubawon’s silhouette tag every Ademola gubernatorial poster or billboard, like some benign ghost?

This ghoulish appeal is desperate political necromancy taken too far! Can’t the PDP candidate convince the living without resort to some morbid cant?

Besides, his many layers of gubernatorial abstraction: first, the ghost of Isiaka; then, the huge shadow of Deji, another big brother though mercifully living; finally, the mirage of Ademola!

Pray, who are the electors voting — some eerie trinity of a phantom governorship?

Candidate Adeleke, beautiful dancer, lugs too much emptiness to suggest he lacks the rigour to govern a postAregbesola Osun.

Another ex-PDP, Iyiola Omisore, bristles and bustles, as Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate. And to be fair, not a few swear, he runs an innovative campaign.

Still, Omisore comes with crippling baggage. For starters, the Bola Ige apparition just won’t go away.

Then, the Baba Alagbado of four years ago, crunching double cobs on the hustings to impress the gullible, he was Osun’s Ayo Fayose, now plays the well-heeled policy wonk, hot, fresh and smoking from Barcelona, hawking the wonkiest ideas on public-private sector-participation (PPP)!

Even the Saul to Paul conversion, in a blinding flash en route to Damascus, couldn’t have been more stunning!

Still, the glue yoking these two violently contrasting folks, in a single persona, hints at some Jerkyl and Hyde. It’s a befitting tribute to Himself, the unfazed political fantasist, whose eyes twinkle with hyperboles!

Another ex-PDP, Fatai Akinbade, a decent guy those who know him swear, holds the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ticket. Since he was secretary to the

OBSERVATION

Debt has a

BY OLAKUNLE ABIMBOLA long history in reclamation, when the Oyinlola Osun. Some of the government ferociously dug in; thrusting fist of mail, to willy-nilly retain power debts were inherited its it eventually lost.

Whatever made Adeoti fall out with his from the Western APC comrades, he had better win Region as part of what the September 22 election. Otherwise, he just might become Osun’s version of Chief Chief Obafemi Ebenezer Babatope: a progressive bawling and screaming, all alone, from Awolowo used to conservative wilderness!

Gboyega Oyetola, former chief of staff develop the region. to the incumbent governor, is the APC candidate. If he wins, he would be chief Others were inherited beneficiary of the Aregbesola legacy. be told, he stands the best chance of from the old Oyo State. Truth pushing those legacies higher, since he

Oyinlola government, perhaps the Oyinlola-era “achievements” would serve him in good stead.

Still, that could be an albatross in other quarters, just as Oyinlola himself, as the first face of former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s “third force”, sent not quite a few scurrying from that gambit. ADC is the diminished result.

Besides, the Obasanjo South West occupation era (in Osun, 2003-2010), with its sterile, painful and retrogressive memories, might just take the sting from the Akinbade candidacy — at least from the progressive-minded.

Unlike the PDP and allied clans, pushing the PDP, SDP, and ADC tickets, the Action Democratic Party (ADP) candidate, Moshood Adeoti, is a dyed-inthe-wool progressive, and ex-APC (Aregbesola’s estranged former secretary to the Osun government).

His progressive credentials dated back to the pristine Alliance for Democracy (AD) days; and dovetailed into that difficult era, when Aregbe’s Oranmiyan Movement was wresting power from the Oyinlola conservatives. Then, Adeoti was Osun Action Congress (AC) chairman.

He was also a veteran of Ilesa prison, during those terrible days of mandate

NEWS EXTRA

Oyetola Popularity Soars

By Dayo Fasola Gboyega Oyetola, the Osun All Progressives Congress (APC) Gubernatorial Candidate’s popularity and rating soars by the day as his campaign trail records impressive outings everyday with massive turnout of supporters and members of opposition daily switching allegiances. Recall that the run up to Osun elections in just few days has seen to former Speaker of Osun state House of Assembly, Hon Adejare Bello who is from Ede, hometown of Senator Demola Adeleke, the PDP Governorship Candidate joining the APC with thousands of his supporters.

Following suit on Tuesday is Mrs Patricia Etteh declaring support for the APC candidate and his running, despite the rumour of her purported defection to another party from APC. Both highly respected leaders from Osun West Senatorial District.

At the impressive mega rally held at Ayedaade Grammar School, Ikire on Tuesday, Mrs Patricia Etteh addressed party faithful and informed them of her support for the APC and cited reasons,

saying, “I am in awe of the APC Progressive ideals. The landmark achievements of Ogbeni Aregbesola in transforming Osun would be remembered for years to come. I am very glad of the choice of my younger brother, Benedict Olugboyega Alabi as the running mate to the foremost achiever, Mr Gboyega Oyetola. We can’t but support them” Also speaking, Governor Rauf Aregbesola elaborated how Mr Isiaka Adegboyega Oyetola, a technocrat was massively elected by APC members, assuring the people of Irewole, Isokan and Ayedaade Federal Constituency of unprecedented development which would advance further the foundations laid by his administration once he and his running mate are elected in the September 22 governorship polls.

On the raging issue of modulated salaries of senior civil servants and the question of whether the APC government would resolve and settle all outstanding payments, a statement by the Gboyega Oyetola Campaign Organisation which was signed by its spokesperson, reassured the people on the commitment to ensure the

challenge becomes a thing of the past.

It stated the issue of modulated salary became necessary to tackle dwindling fortunes at the time and to avoid possible necessity of retrenchment.

The statement reads further “The manifesto of Mr Isiaka Adegboyega Oyetola with the Campaign promises and developmental programmes contained therein are well thought out and absolutely executable.

Our candidate, a man of impeccable character and proven integrity is more than capable to deliver on every single one of them. You can hold us to our promises at all times”, it stated.

Party leaders and APC Chieftains present at the rally are Osun House of Assembly Speaker, Hon Najeem Salaam, Senator Mudashiru Hussein, House of Representatives members Hon Ajibola Famurewa and Alhaja Ayo Omidiran, former House of Representatives member, Hon Rotimi Makinde, Osun Commissioner for Culture, Mrs Taiwo Oluga , Hon Jaiyeoba Alagbada, Hon Bosun Oyintiloye, Hon Bola Oyebamiji, among others.

was part and parcel of it all, these past eight years.

But as candidate, and even succeeding governor, he would also be peppered with the Aregbesola-era liabilities — mainly the salary back log and the ultra-emotive outcry over debts, if only to wish away the impressively visible infrastructural strides.

Still, Oyetola must do more targeted and bloc campaigns, pitching specific interest lobbies, to build on the assets and deflate raw emotions on the liabilities. Those who have pretty little to offer, on cutting reason, gladly shovel out hot emotions to scald the gullible. To be elected, he must checkmate such blackmail.

All things considered, however, Osun’s best bet would be to broadly continue with the economic policies and developmental politics of the Aregbesola years.

Oyinlola might claim valid achievements. But the fair-minded know they hold no candle to the Aregbesola years — penetrating infrastructure to open up the Osun economy; a novel schools feeding programme that has radically hiked primary school enrolment; a no less revolutionary youth volunteer scheme, OYES, that grooms volunteers for selfemployment; futuristic schools and roads never witnessed before in Osun; and an aggressive rural-urban integration development policy, epitomized by RAMP — rural access and mobility project — championed by the World Bank and zealously embraced by the Aregbe government.

Yet, at this crucial juncture, Osun is a throwback to that Yoruba folklore, of the magical orchard, and singing trees.

While the noxious fruits burst out in sweet chatter — kami-kami-kami! (pluckpluck-pluck me!), the wholesome remain near-mute, in self-assured restraint.

A Yoruba equivalent of the biblical wide-and-merry, and straight-andnarrow; as the Osun retrogressive voices now make the most racket?

The Osun gubernatorial electioneering is a cacophony of clatter! Yet, the electors must make a choice.

A wise choice would vault Osun from the puddle of “civil service state” (a euphemism for economic retardation), where the payment of salaries would be routine, since the expanded economy can cater for every legitimate need. That is what penetrative infrastructure does.

A foolish one? Go no farther than the neighbouring Ekiti where, in four short years, Ayo Fayose has rolled his state, backward, into virtual Stone Age.

•This piece was published earlier in The Nation newspaper of Wednesday, September 11, 2018 and culled.

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

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