Lifestyle

Behold An Uninformed ‘Die Hard’ Critic By Kola Ajibola

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  “Criticisms and commendations are like twins. For any meaningful progress to be made, both must exist side by side.” – Seyi Makinde When I saw the interview by self-proclaimed ‘die-hard critic’ of the Seyi Makinde administration, one Sola Abegunde, I read it in the hopes that there would be some meaningful takeaways that would make the Makinde administration sit up and do better. It is a well-known fact that Makinde has always stated that he is open to listening to constructive criticism and adjust policies and projects based on feedback. Alas, I was disappointed! It seems critics like Abegunde intend to rewrite recent history about governance in Oyo State. To create some fictional universe where lies and deceit are allowed to fly without being shut down. Not this day and not this place. Abegunde started by talking about the sincerity of purpose of Makinde’s predecessors. According to him, you could tie them to their campaign promises. It appears that Abegunde is unaware that Makinde has been implementing roadmaps which are the manifestoes he campaigned with in 2019 (Oyo State Roadmap for Accelerated Development 2019-2023) and in 2023 (Oyo State Roadmap for Sustainable Development 2023-2027). Not only that, Makinde tracks the promises in these roadmaps on an annual basis and publishes the results on his website so people can see what has been achieved and what is still pending. Can Abegunde point to any of Makinde’s predecessors who has been this detailed and transparent about their campaign promises? In lauding Makinde’s predecessors, Abegunde said they excelled in the Education sector with free education, providing text books, exercise books and building infrastructure. He also applauded the 30 people per class policy and payment of WAEC and NECO exam fees. These general statements ignore the fact that the Seyi Makinde-led administration also has a free education policy and provide free text books and exercise books. Additionally, Makinde’s administration has completed 60 model schools and constructed and renovated over 700 classrooms in all 33 local government areas of Oyo State. To address the personnel shortage in the education sector, Makinde’s administration recruited 5,000 secondary school teachers between 2019 and 2023 while an additional 7,500 secondary school, 3,000 non-teaching staff and 7,000 primary school teachers are being recruited this year. These numbers are unprecedented in Oyo State history. Still on the education sector, Abegunde stated that the Abiola Ajimobi administration ‘devised a system that committed stakeholders to education’. He failed to disclose that the Ajimobi administration left an education system with dilapidated infrastructure and over 400,000 out-of-school children, the highest in the South West due to his fee policy for senior secondary school students. Out of this number, over 80,000 have been returned to the classroom by Makinde’s administration and the Oyo State Government is currently implementing the World Bank-assisted Better Education Service Delivery for All (BESDA) programme to return more students to the classroom. According to Abegunde, Seyi Makinde’s predecessors allowed local governments to function while Makinde has killed the local government system in Oyo State. Abegunde is unaware that Makinde’s predecessors from Lam Adesina to Abiola Ajimobi left a backlog of unpaid gratuities and pensions of local government retirees that the Oyo State Government has been working to pay off. In fact, when Makinde assumed office in 2019, local government pensioners had a case in court against the government because of the backlog of unpaid gratuities and pensions. Makinde negotiated with them to pay N250,000 monthly towards the backlog so that they could withdraw the case against the government.This payment has been made monthly since then. Abegunde also alleged without any evidence that Makinde’s administration had taken loans using the accounts of the 33 LGAs as collateral. Such beer parlour talk has no place in fact-based conversations. Oyo State’s debt profile is not a secret. As of 31 March 2024, the latest available data on the Debt Management Office website, Oyo State’s domestic debt was N98.7 billion. Perhaps, Abegunde should familiarise himself with facts and figures about Oyo State so that he can give constructive criticism that can be useful to moving the state forward. In Abegunde’s opinion, projects like the bus terminals and ‘Light up Oyo’ project are white elephant which the Makinde should not have embarked upon. Referring to projects which are yielding returns as white elephant indicates that Abegunde does not know the meaning of the term. The Oyo State Government has repeatedly explained that the use of generators to run the streetlights under the ‘Light up Oyo’ project was a stop-gap measure to get the benefits of the project which in the long-term is meant to be powered by the 11MW Independent Power Project with gas generators as backup. Just about three months ago, Makinde announced that he had signed a $100 million gas project with Shell Gas Nigeria to supply gas in Oyo State. On the Agbowo Shopping Complex, the criticism from Abegunde seems to be a bit late. Things have moved on from the concession agreement that failed. While Makinde’s predecessors that he holds in higher regards did nothing about the shopping complex, Makinde’s plan to revive the moribund structure is back on course after a failed initial attempt. Perhaps, Abegunde can pay a visit to the complex to see the progress being made on its upgrade. Finally, it is laughable that Abegunde believes Makinde’s predecessors fared better than him on road projects. He referred to the 57 km road from Eleyele through Ido to New Eruwa by Lam Adesina’s administration and the dualisation of some major roads by Ajimobi’s administration though the latter completed less than 40 km of major road projects in eight years. He failed to acknowledge that Seyi Makinde’s administration has completed over 330 km of major road projects in five years including the 65 km Moniya-Iseyin Road and the 34.85 km Oyo-Iseyin Road, both federal roads. Abegunde only mentioned the 76.67 km Iseyin-Ogbomoso Road, a new road built from scratch by the Makinde administration as worthy of note. Meanwhile, Makinde’s … Read more

Birthday: Hon. Segelu Celebrates with Ogunsina, Oyo State PDP Spokesman

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  By Our Reporter   Hon. Olayinka Segelu, a businessman originally from Ibadan and a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) based in Germany, has extended his congratulations to Hon. Michael Ogunsina, the Acting Publicity Secretary of Oyo State PDP, on the occasion of his birthday. Hon Segelu, in a birthday message to Ogunsina on Thursday, described him as a loyal and trusted party man who has remained committed to the progress and growth of the PDP, Oyo State and Nigeria in general. According to Segelu, Ogunsina who is equally the Youth Leader of Oyo State PDP has demonstrated the capacity to lead as a young man full of energy and vibrancy working hard for the good of our party and its members. He said the youth leader cum spokesman of the Oyo State Chapter of PDP who has been an inspiration to youths in Oyo State and beyond, has made significant impact in the lives of many with his dynamism, purposefulness and doggedness. In his message, Segelu, who recently declared his interest to participate in the 2027 Oyo governorship race, said: “Dear Hon. Michael Ogunsina, I join numerous well-wishers, friends, family, and political associates, to extend my warmest birthday wishes to you as you celebrate your special day. “Your leadership as the State Youth Leader and your role as the acting State PRO have made a significant impact on our great Party. Since your election as Oyo PDP Youth Leader and subsequent appointment as the party’s Publicity Secretary (Spokesman), you have clearly demonstrated the ability to lead and conducted yourself in a manner that portrayed you as a good party man keenly interested in seeing that everything works well for our party and her members. “Quite frankly, you have proven to be a complete embodiment of peace, knowledge, humility, friendliness and kind-heartedness. These excellent qualities have no doubt made you an inspiration to many around you. “As you add another year on earth today, it is my very fervent prayer that may God Almighty grant you long life, abundant grace, favour and protection from all sides. Your brotherly advice is cherished and valued immensely. It shall be well with you in your new age! “Happy birthday, Bro Mike as you are fondly called. Enjoy your day to the fullest.”

Ìṣẹ̀ṣe Assembly and Filmmakers Commit to Ending Negative Depictions

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  Stakeholders in the preservation of Yoruba culture tradition and religion have emphasized the importance of accurate cultural and religious representation in the media and encouraged filmmakers to protect the integrity of indigenous heritage in the their works. This was made known at a one-day interactive session with critical stakeholders in the movie industry, organised by the Isese Welfare Association, popularly called ‘Isese Assembly’ which held at Onasode Hall, International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan on Thursday. Whole speaking at the event, the Araba Awo of Osogbo, High Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon said the collaboration was aimed at countering misrepresentation and denigration of the traditional belief system. According to him, “this symposium is part of a strategic effort to preserve and promote traditional culture, spirituality, Heritage, and religion through cinema and theatrical arts. “We brought together key players from the film industry such as, actors, directors, scriptwriters, and content creators in other to address the contemporary challenges facing the traditional belief system, known as Isese.” Elebuibon stressed that the initiative reflected a broader effort to ensure traditional culture and religion are preserved amidst modern media influence. He added that, the synergy between Isese Assembly and the film industry is a vital step in ensuring that Isese religious practices are preserved for future generations, using the powerful medium of film to educate and inspire both local and international audiences. In his opening remarks, the founder and National Coordinator of Isese Welfare Association, Barrister Aderemi Ifaolepin Aderemi stated that the goal of the interactive session was to establish a sustainable platform between filmmakers and Isese Assembly to preserve and promote cultural traditions and the indigenous region. He said the initiative reflected a broader concern about the global portrayal of indigenous Yorùbá religion and the erosion of traditional values through misrepresentation in mainstream media. Ifaolepin stressed that the misconceptions about Isese have been so much and the role filmmakers are playing in this has been affecting the Isese adherents, as many people wrongly believe whatever they see in the movies as the truth, which is relegating what he called the most cherished African indigenous religion. “IWA is particularly concerned with the portrayal of cultural traditions and Ìṣẹ̀ṣe religion in films and media, as misrepresentations can lead to the distortion of cultural and religious practices. “They are not seeing it from the aspect of religion, they see is as culture, Isese is a religion of Yoruba people and it is now been practiced all over the world. “We believe that by working closely with filmmakers, they can ensure that Yoruba culture is not only protected but also revitalized, with its rich heritage, spirituality, and religion showcased authentically and with respect,” he added. Oluwo Ifaolepin maintained that the partnership could lead to innovative storytelling, that would highlight the depth and beauty of Yoruba religion and traditions, while also countering stereotypes and misinformation. He said this will ensure that Yoruba customs, including divination practices, spirituality, and religious beliefs are accurately represented on screen.

Oyo Assembly Speaker,Ogundoyin congratulates youngest Assembly Member, Adebisi Yusuf.

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By Adeleke Maria    IBADAN – The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, extends his warmest congratulations to Hon. Adebisi Yusuf,the youngest member of the Assembly representing the Ibadan South West I Constituency,on the occasion of his birthday today. In a statement released by the Speaker’s office, Ogundoyin described Hon. Yusuf as a “shining example of youthful excellence” and commended his dedication to serving the people of Oyo State. “I am delighted to join family, friends, and colleagues in celebrating the birthday of our youngest and vibrant Assembly member, Hon. Adebisi Yusuf,” Ogundoyin said. “Despite his age, Hon. Yusuf has shown remarkable qualities and a deep commitment to legislative activities and programmes. His passion and energy are contagious, and he has become a role model for many young people in Oyo State,” Ogundoyin added. Hon. Yusuf, who is also the Chairman of the House Committee on Youth and Sports, has been instrumental in promoting youth empowerment programs and initiatives in the state. As he marks another year, Ogundoyin prayed for Hon. Yusuf’s continued growth, wisdom, and success in his legislative career. “I wish him a happy birthday and many more years of service to our dear state,” the Speaker said.

Business Mogul Olatunji Awodiran Set to Receive Honorary Doctorate from American University,Saturday

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  IBADAN – Business mogul and philanthropist, Dr Olatunji Awodiran will on Saturday, 14th September , 2024 bag honorary doctorate degree from Prowess University, Delaware, USA. Awodiran who is the founder, Leovest Continental Services Limited, United Kingdom will be honored during the 10th Leadership summit/ induction honorary doctorate degree award of Prowess University, Delaware. The philanthropist, Leovest Reassuring Hand Foundation will be awarded with an honorary doctorate degree in Hospitality management is honored in recognition of his industrial humanitarian excellence. He will be awarded alongside other 4 prominent Nigerians at Subomi Balogun hall, University of Ibadan, Ibadan. The theme of the event is “Entrepreneurship and Job creation as tool for peace.“ While guest speaker at the event is, Professor Godwin Oyedokun.

Nigeria Bids Farewell To National Hero Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, Nigeria Flag Designer

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On Friday, Nigeria said its final goodbyes to Pa Michael Taiwo Akinkunmi, the esteemed designer of the national flag, as his remains were laid to rest in Ibadan. The service took place at his residence in Aba Paanu, Kuola Estate, Elebu, following a dignified funeral organized by the Oyo State government at Obafemi Awolowo Stadium Liberty. The ceremony, attended by family, friends, and high-profile officials, paid tribute to Akinkunmi’s lasting impact on Nigeria’s national identity. Known affectionately as “Mr. Flag Man,” Akinkunmi, who passed away at 87, was celebrated for his design of Nigeria’s flag, which features green and white stripes symbolizing the nation’s rich vegetation and peace. Acting Governor Bayo Lawal delivered a moving tribute, praising Akinkunmi as a beacon of patriotism and humility. He highlighted the significance of the flag’s colors and urged Nigerians to follow Akinkunmi’s example of dedication and unity. The acting governor remarked, “Pa Akinkunmi’s life was a testament to what it means to serve one’s country with dignity and love.” He also highlighted Akinkunmi’s down-to-earth nature, recalling how the late designer painted his house in the colors of the flag as a demonstration of his unwavering commitment to Nigeria. Pastor Olufemi Solomon of the Gospel Faith Mission International (GOFAMINT) delivered a sermon on legacy and responsibility, emphasizing that Akinkunmi’s work was a profound statement of national unity. He remarked, “Each of us will have our day of accountability, where we must reflect on how we have lived our lives and the impact we have made.” The pastor also emphasized the importance of faith and moral integrity in fulfilling one’s duties as a citizen. He shared anecdotes about Akinkunmi’s humility and dedication, underscoring that true greatness lies in selfless service to others. “Let us honor Pa Akinkunmi by embodying the values he stood for, service, humility, and a deep love for our nation,” he urged. He called on Nigerians to reflect on their contributions and strive for selfless service. The funeral also featured personal tributes, with Akinkunmi’s daughter, Oloyode Folake, recalling her father’s deep love for Nigeria. The ceremony was marked by a strong sense of unity and reflection on Akinkunmi’s enduring legacy. Numerous dignitaries, including past and present government officials, attended the ceremony to pay their respects.

Did you know a tribe where men breastfeed their children?

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It is quite common for men to participate in nursing their new-born, but quite uncommon for men to participate in breastfeeding infants; a practice that is quite distinctive and noteworthy. This practice reflects the Aka’s communal approach to child-rearing and emphasizes the collective responsibility of all members of the community in nurturing and caring for the young.

How we spent 36 years in Nigeria with 10-day visas — American tourists

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Two American tourists, Liza Gatsby, and Peter Jenkins, have recounted what led them to spend over 36 years in Nigeria instead of the 10-day transit visas that were approved for them in 1988. The two tourists made the revelation in an interview with a content creator, David Nkwa, monitored by our correspondent on Wedsnesday. According to them, they never planned to stay in Nigeria beyond their approved days of visitation until they saw the need to save drill monkeys in the country because they were impressed by the dominance of interesting opportunities in areas of Science and Wildlife Conservation, the roads, the hospitality of Nigerians and the living condition that appeared better compared to America in those days. I’ll tell you what I like about Nigerians. Okay, that’s what makes Nigeria different from every other country in Africa. They would say ‘hey! Oyinbo, come in na, sit down, make we talk. Make I go buy you the drink.’ That is the difference between Nigeria and the rest of Africa “There were a lot of interesting opportunities in areas of Science and Wildlife Conservation that we became involved in, and we’re still here 36 years later. We arrived with a 10-day transit visa, and we have been here for 36 years. “We founded a nonprofit organisation called Pandas that ranches monkey drills in Bano and Calabar in Cross River State. I don’t think that one species is more important than another, just like I don’t think that human beings are more important than drills or elephants are more important than whales; I think we are all of equal value, and the drill is a scarce species, it’s one of the rarest animals in Africa and it’s one of those animals you never thought you would even see when we were traveling across Africa, you know I had my Wildlife Field Guide and you look at the pictures,” Gatsby, one of the tourists said. Speaking on why Calabar was their place of choice, Jenkins said they had done their research and that aside from Cameroon, Calabar was another place for monkey drills, stressing that no scientist or tourist had discovered that those animals were living there until 1987 when they consulted the local people in the community and got funding to make it habitable while conserving the rare species of Monkeys and other animals including girafees. Jenkins added, “I love Nigeria, this is a great place. Come and live in Calabar and be at rest.When we got here, the population of Nigeria in early ’90s and the late 80s was around 65 million. “The amount of natural resources that were still intact was extraordinary, and the density of wildlife generally in the forest was better compared to today. In fact, it’s appallingly low now, but in those days, this was a wonderful place to do research. Communities were very welcoming in those days; life was cheap; here, diesel, which is what our Land Rover ran on, was 35 Kobo, and with 29 kobo to the market, you would come back with two heavy bags with change in the pocket. “We were comfortable and found Nigeria habitable. It was the best value country on this continent by far. The food was cheap, the road was perfect. There was no gallop deaper than a botlle cap.” Meanwhile, Gabsty identified the lack of patriotism as the challenge facing many Nigerians while berating the growing negligence of the country’s culture, heritage, identity, music, traditional herbs, and healing. “Nigerians don’t have pride in Nigeria’s natural heritage. I think that’s a big issue because that’s what it takes to try to make a difference. People don’t take pride in their cultural identity, language, traditional herbs, and healing. “There was this huge wealth of knowledge when we came here on traditional healing and herbs from the forest, and that was another thing that put value on the natural resources here, but which of these old herbalists have an apprentice who is learning from them and when these old guys are gone all that knowledge is going to be lost? “You go to the market now; we see herbal teas and herbal cures imported from China. How do we know that those things work? What’s wrong with our traditional ones here?” She queried.  

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