Oyo Speaker, Ogundoyin Holds Strategic Meetings With Ibarapa East Constituents To Strengthen PDP Ties

By Adeleke Maria  In a move to strengthen the People’s Democratic Party, (PDP) in Ibarapa East Local Government and enhance unity and cooperation amongst members, the Speaker of Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has held a series of strategic meetings with leaders and members of the party. In the last four days, Hon. Ogundoyin met with PDP stakeholders and constituents at different venues across Eruwa and Lanlate towns. These meetings brought together key party leaders, including Chief Adewale Atanda Alase, Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, Alh. Kasali Morakinyo, Chief Abegunde, Dr. Adedokun Daniel, Alh Adebisi Sikiru (Party Chairman), Alh Kamorudeen Adeyemi (Senatorial Chairman), and Mrs. Adebisi Yetunde, among others. Hon. Ogundoyin emphasized the importance of unity, urging members to prioritize cooperation and avoid spreading false information that could harm the party’s reputation. He stressed that the party’s strength lies in its ability to work together towards a common goal and cautioned PDP members in the Local Government against unnecessary bickering over sharing of party political posts and positions. According to the Speaker, if PDP in the Local Government wishes to remain stronger and consolidate on its political gains, it must close ranks, speak with one voice, and never allow internal wranglings to fester beyond control. While admitting that there will occasionally be misunderstandings and unnecessary instigation of crisis by some unscrupulous individuals, the Speaker urged the leadership of the party in the council to always engage in dialogue and consultation in resolving issues. “It was a 4-day productive meetings and engagements with leaders, elders and party faithful in Ibarapa East Local Government. I am happy that PDP in Ibarapa East Local Government has again laid the foundation for a stronger and a more united front. The meetings were productive, with various issues raised and addressed. “There were clarifications and records were set straight. Issues likely to cause dis-affection and disunity were discussed and resolved. Aggrieved members were pacified and contentious issues settled amicably. This move is important to avoid division and crisis which could undermine the strength and success of our party in future elections in our Constituency.” Oyo Speaker said. At the end of the meetings, PDP members in Ibarapa East State Constituency reaffirmed their loyalty to Chief Adewale Atanda Alase as the overall Leader of the party in Ibarapaland and agreed to continue working together for the upliftment of the party and all its members.

Oyo Government Restores Water Supply, Promises Enhanced Service for Residents

  The Oyo Water Corporation on Saturday said it has restored water supply to residents in some parts of the State, after many years of service disruption due to technical challenges faced by the Corporation. The Corporation added that repairs of leakages and burst on other water pipelines located within the State is ongoing. A statement issued by the Corporation’s Chairman, Hon.Elias Adeojo, said operations have since commenced at major waterworks and booster stations to complement water supply to Ibadan and environs. He said areas water supply has been restored to include Molete, Bode, Labiran, Beyeruka, Eleyele axis, Bashorun-Oluwo nla among others. While assuring residents of improved service delivery, he urged them to use it prudently. Hon. Adeojo added that efforts have been put in place to ensure prompt repairs of facilities as soon as they are detected or reported by the public. “The agency under my supervision would do everything possible to ensure that the recently restored potable water supply to Ibadan and environs is sustained” He, therefore, solicited the understanding of consumers in affected areas for any inconveniences and assured the general public of steady water supply afterwards as the corporation is working relentlessly to serve them better. “Let me assure residents of Ibadan and environs of adequate potable water supply as all factors like leakages and burst pipes mitigating against the Oyo State Water Corporation are being tackled with accurate precision”, he said. He added, “The Corporation would deploy it’s personnel and machine to restore potable water to other parts of the State as soon as all the faults in Ibadan are resolved”. Hon. Adeojo therefore called on residents of Ibadan to report detected pipe leakages and bursts on 08077033774 for prompt actions by the corporation’s engineers.

Ladoja Shares Astonishing Details About Obasanjo’s Involvement In His Impeachment

  Senator Ladoja, a seasoned politician in Ibadan, has made headlines for his candid revelations about his tumultuous past. Recently, on a radio show, he exposed the significant role former President Obasanjo played in his impeachment as governor of Oyo State in January 2006. Ladoja’s account highlighted Obasanjo’s vendetta against him due to his opposition to the third term agenda. This wasn’t the first time Ladoja shared this story; he had previously spoken about it during his 75th birthday celebration in 2019. Ladoja’s narrative vividly captures the tense encounter with Obasanjo. He recalled telling the former president, “You just came out of prison and had no money… let God decide the next president.” Obasanjo reportedly appreciated Ladoja’s honesty but later denied seeking a third term. However, Ladoja insisted that Obasanjo did indeed pursue a third term. The aftermath of Ladoja’s meeting with Obasanjo was ominous. Gbenga Daniel, then-governor of Ogun State, warned Ladoja that Obasanjo vowed to make him a “nobody” . This ominous warning materialized when Ladoja was impeached in January 2006, only to be reinstated 11 months later following a grueling legal battle. Ladoja’s political journey is marked by resilience and determination. He rose to prominence as a successful businessman and politician. He served as governor of Oyo State from 2003 to 2006 and briefly in 2007. Ladoja’s impeachment was a contentious issue, with many questioning its legitimacy. The Appeal Court in Ibadan declared the impeachment null and illegal in November 2006, paving the way for his reinstatement. Throughout his career, Ladoja has demonstrated unwavering commitment to his principles. His opposition to Obasanjo’s third term agenda, despite potential repercussions, showcases his courage . As Ladoja navigated the complex landscape of Nigerian politics, he encountered numerous challenges. His tenure as governor was marked by power struggles with influential figures like late Baba Lamidi Adedibu. Despite these obstacles, Ladoja remains a respected figure in Nigerian and Oyo state politics. His legacy extends beyond his tenure as governor, with many acknowledging his contributions to the development of Oyo State. In August 2024, Ladoja received a ceremonial beaded crown from the reigning Olubadan and the Government of Oyo State, solidifying his position as a revered leader in Ibadan. This honor underscores his enduring influence and dedication to public service.  

Hon Olayinka Segelu Celebrates Teachers On World Teachers Day

By Adeleke Maria   An Ibadan-born ICT consultant, entrepreneur and Chieftain of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) based in Germany, Hon. Olayinka Oladimeji Segelu, has doffed his cap for teachers around the world for the significant role they play in educational growth and advancement. In a statement issued to applaud teachers worldwide on Saturday in commemoration of the World Teachers Day, Hon. Olayinka Segelu, a governorship aspirant for Oyo 2027, said: “On this World Teacher’s Day, I extend my heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to our dedicated teachers across Oyo State and beyond. Today, we celebrate the invaluable contributions of educators who shape the minds and futures of our children, nurturing them with knowledge, guidance, and wisdom. “As I reflect on this special day, I am reminded of my late mother, Late Mrs. R.T. Oladimeji, who devoted 33 years of her life to teaching. She served with unwavering commitment as the Head Mistress at St. Paul Primary School in Yanbule, Basorun/Ashi, Ibadan where she positively impacted countless students and families. Her legacy embodies the essence of teaching: a calling that transforms lives and communities. “Teachers hold a unique place in our society, deserving of our utmost respect and appreciation. Their dedication not only influences the classroom but also extends into the hearts and minds of the students they teach. I have profound respect for the sacrifices and hard work they put into forging a brighter future for the next generation. “As your gubernatorial aspirant under the banner of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), I pledge to continue prioritizing the welfare of our teachers and to uphold their esteemed position in our society. Their commitment to education is the bedrock of our development. Therefore, it is crucial that we support and empower them. “Let us recognize and honor the teachers who inspire and educate us every day. Together, we can ensure they receive the recognition and support they truly deserve. “Happy World Teacher’s Day!”

2024 Teachers’ Day: Makinde Commits To N70,000 Minimum Wage For Teachers

  By Adeleke Maria   Oyo State Governor ‘Seyi Makinde has announced that his administration will begin paying the N70,000 minimum wage after resolving the matter of consequential salary adjustments. This was as the governor announced the extension of the N25,000 wage award to workers and N15,000 wage award to pensioners by another three months. The extension, the governor noted, is to cover the period that the negotiation on the consequential adjustment will ast, noting that the payment of the wage award will stop upon the conclusion of negotiations to effectively implement the minimum wage. Governor Makinde made this announcement on Saturday during the 2024 World Teachers’ Day Celebration with the theme: “Valuing Teachers’ Voices Towards a New Social Contract for Education,” held at the NUT (ENDWELL) Model College Sports Complex, Owode Housing Estate, Apata, Ibadan. He said: “On the minimum wage, negotiation will start next week and we will pay the N70,000 minimum wage. But the consequential adjustment is about to be negotiated. The NLC and our team will sit down to discuss it.” Governor Makinde, who lauded teachers in the state for their massive support to him during the last election and their immeasurable contributions to building the state, said his government will continue to prioritise the welfare of teachers and all civil servants in the state so that they would continue to be productive. Noting that education remains one of the major pillars of his government, the governor promised to fix more education infrastructure so that teachers can continue to impart knowledge in a conducive environment in order to guarantee a better future for the state. “I want to say kudos to the teachers. Everywhere I went during the campaign, you mobilised yourselves and supported us wholeheartedly. So, I appreciate you and I say thank you. “We are going through challenges as a country. We have issues of minimum wage and fuel price but I want to appeal to you to say that tough times don’t last but tough people do. We will outlast these challenges we are faced with.” The governor added, “Any country that wants to develop must educate her people. “So, for us in Oyo State, we will continue to specially look after our teachers, because they are dealing with our future. “You teachers, you have to be put where you belong. So, I thank you for your support and dedication to duty. We still have a long way to go. “When we came in, with the UBEC grant and matching fund we used to give them, we were spending about N3 billion every year on infrastructure. So, for the past five years, we have done about N15 billion but it is not enough – just like a drop in the ocean. “The gap we have to fill, when we did the analysis a few years ago, it was around N40 billion but I can tell you now that it will be close to N70 billion. “If we continue to spend N3 billion yearly for the next 15 years, we still won’t cover the gap on ground. So apart from SUBEB, we will have education intervention funds of a minimum of N10 billion every year towards bridging the infrastructural gap in education. “And of course we will employ more teachers and we will put them in a conducive learning environment that would guarantee better outcomes for our students.” The governor, while commissioning a block of 10 classrooms built by the NUT at the NUT Model School, maintained that his administration’s commitment to fixing inner roads remained on course and that it will work on inner roads within the Owode Housing Estate. Earlier in his welcome address, the NUT State Chairman, Comrade Raji Ismail, thanked the governor for his “unprecedented achievements in the education sector and for being mindful of teachers’ welfare through his encouragement of career progression for primary school teachers, regular payment of salaries, promotions, payment of leave bonuses and healthcare insurance, among others.” Also in his goodwill message, the chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the state, Comrade Kayode Martins, assured that the governor will do everything necessary to implement the minimum wage as expected.

Ogun Government Donates N200 Million To Borno State In Response To Flood Disaster

  The Ogun State Government has donated sum of N200 million to the Borno State Government following the devastating flood that recently ravaged the state, destroying property and displacing thousands of residents. It will be recalled that Governor Dapo Abiodun had earlier sent messages of condolence to the people and government of Borno State, commending the state government for its prompt response alongside interventions from the federal government. Announcing the donation on Saturday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade stated that the gesture was aimed at assisting the victims of the flood and providing immediate relief. He noted that the flood had caused an unimaginable humanitarian crisis in the state, necessitating immediate support from all Nigerians to provide succor for the affected people. The National Emergency Management Agency reported that the flood began after the Alau Dam overflowed due to heavy rainfall, leading to the worst flooding the town had experienced in 30 years. According to reports, at least 414,000 people have been displaced, and 30 lives lost in the devastating flood in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

10th Assembly Commends Tinubu For Correcting Age-Long Discrimination Of National Honours

  The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for correcting the mistakes of the past by according the House its constitutional status in offering the Speaker with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON). President Tinubu had during his Independence Day Anniversary address to Nigerians on Tuesday, October 1, announced the conferment of the Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFR) on the Speaker and GCON on the President of the Senate and the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). On Wednesday, the House, through a motion by Hon. Philip Agbese and 249 others, called on the President to correct past mistakes by giving the House the same status as the Senate in the conferment of the National Honours. The House had decried the discrimination it had suffered over the years not just regarding the National Honours but also in some quarters, where a segment of Nigerians referred to it as the “lower chamber” even when the constitution places both chambers of the National Assembly on the same pedestal. Following the resolution of the House, President Tinubu on Friday night through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, announced the withdrawal of the CFR honour and conferment of the GCON on the Speaker. Mr. Onanuga said, “President Tinubu was persuaded by the House of Representatives position and has decided to remedy the historical error and oversight. Thus, he has decided to upgrade the Speaker to GCON from CFR, by the National Order of Precedence.” Speaker Abbas, in a press statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, said President Tinubu has demonstrated good leadership in his actions. “I thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for correcting the mistakes by past administrations of not according to the House its constitutional recognition. The President has once again demonstrated his democratic credentials of being a true democrat, an objective, and a listening leader. “With this development, Nigeria and indeed the world, now know that the House of Representatives of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has the same status as its sister chamber, the Senate, and is treated as such. “I thank the President for heeding the voices of reasoning from the House and other well-meaning Nigerians,” the Speaker said. Speaker Abbas equally congratulated the 10th House of Representatives “for this historic achievement.” He thanked his colleagues for rising against the age-long discrimination of the House, which he said has been corrected through their efforts.  

Nigerians To Process, Obtain Passports From Home – Tunji-Ojo

  Nigerians will soon be able to process and receive their passports from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the need to physically visit passport processing centers, according to the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo. However, this new initiative will initially apply only to Nigerians aged 18 and above and those seeking the renewal of expired passports. Fresh applicants will still be required to appear in person to register their biometrics at passport centers. Dr. Tunji-Ojo announced this development at a stakeholders’ forum in Abuja, where the contactless passport processing App was unveiled. The initiative is part of an effort to streamline passport issuance and reduce the burdens often faced by Nigerians, both at home and abroad. The minister emphasized that the new process is designed to eliminate exploitation by middlemen, who often create unnecessary obstacles to extort applicants. The contactless passport processing project is a collaboration between two Nigerian firms, Irish Smart Technology and New World, which have been test-running the system over the last nine months. The new technology aims to make passport issuance more seamless, with the App covering every requirement for obtaining a Nigerian passport. Tunji-Ojo also revealed that beginning in April next year, passport production will be centralized in Nigeria. As part of this, immigration attachés in foreign missions will no longer be authorized to approve visa issuance, a step aimed at streamlining the process and improving efficiency. In addition, the minister announced that the President has approved the retention of 50% of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) internally generated revenue, enabling the service to enhance its operations and reduce delays in passport processing. To further strengthen national security, the government is also building 32 forward operational bases across the country to support the NIS in its duties. The Comptroller-General of the NIS, Mrs. Kemi Nandap, noted that the contactless passport issuance system will not only reduce the inconvenience associated with physical processing but also enhance the security of the Nigerian passport in line with international standards.

Ekiti Constructs 90 Toilets, Bathrooms At NYSC Camp

  Ekiti State Government has completed the construction of nine public conveniences, comprising five toilets and five bathrooms each, at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Ise-Emure. This was disclosed by the State Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr Adesola Gold Adedayo, during an inspection of the project. He noted that the construction was in its final stages and would be fully ready before the next batch of Corps members began orientation. Mr Adedayo expressed gratitude to Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Youth Development, for his significant support in enhancing the camp’s facilities. He also revealed that, in collaboration with the Senate Committee, the state had installed 30 solar-powered poles to improve lighting at the camp. This project marks the first phase of a broader effort to revamp the camp, following Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s directive to conduct integrity tests on all structures within the facility. The governor remains committed to ensuring a conducive environment for the orientation of Corps members. “This is the first phase of the Governor’s intervention to give this camp a facelift,” Mr Adedayo said. “We deeply appreciate His Excellency, our youth-loving governor, for his swift response. After the unfortunate incident here, the governor approved the construction of the toilets and the integrity test on all the buildings. There are more interventions on the way.” The Commissioner highlighted that this is the most significant development the camp has seen since its inception, noting that it addresses long-standing challenges that had previously been overlooked. “This is the first time since the establishment of this camp that we’ve received such a comprehensive intervention,” he added. “We are grateful to Governor Oyebanji for addressing these issues head-on.” The State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun reiterated the government’s commitment to transforming the Permanent Orientation Camp into a vibrant hub with safe and comfortable accommodation and clean and hygienic facilities. He assured that the state would continue prioritising the welfare of indigenes and non-indigenes residing temporarily or permanently in Ekiti. Other officials present during the inspection included the Special Adviser, Independent Project Monitoring Office (IPMO), Mr Olufemi Ajayi; the Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Mr James Folorunso; and the Director General of the Office of Transformation and Service Delivery (OTSD), Engr. (Dr.) John Ekundayo.  

Ekiti Constructs 90 Toilets, Bathrooms At NYSC Camp

  Ekiti State Government has completed the construction of nine public conveniences, comprising five toilets and five bathrooms each, at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Ise-Emure. This was disclosed by the State Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr Adesola Gold Adedayo, during an inspection of the project. He noted that the construction was in its final stages and would be fully ready before the next batch of Corps members began orientation. Mr Adedayo expressed gratitude to Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Youth Development, for his significant support in enhancing the camp’s facilities. He also revealed that, in collaboration with the Senate Committee, the state had installed 30 solar-powered poles to improve lighting at the camp. This project marks the first phase of a broader effort to revamp the camp, following Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s directive to conduct integrity tests on all structures within the facility. The governor remains committed to ensuring a conducive environment for the orientation of Corps members. “This is the first phase of the Governor’s intervention to give this camp a facelift,” Mr Adedayo said. “We deeply appreciate His Excellency, our youth-loving governor, for his swift response. After the unfortunate incident here, the governor approved the construction of the toilets and the integrity test on all the buildings. There are more interventions on the way.” The Commissioner highlighted that this is the most significant development the camp has seen since its inception, noting that it addresses long-standing challenges that had previously been overlooked. “This is the first time since the establishment of this camp that we’ve received such a comprehensive intervention,” he added. “We are grateful to Governor Oyebanji for addressing these issues head-on.” The State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun reiterated the government’s commitment to transforming the Permanent Orientation Camp into a vibrant hub with safe and comfortable accommodation and clean and hygienic facilities. He assured that the state would continue prioritising the welfare of indigenes and non-indigenes residing temporarily or permanently in Ekiti. Other officials present during the inspection included the Special Adviser, Independent Project Monitoring Office (IPMO), Mr Olufemi Ajayi; the Director General of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), Mr James Folorunso; and the Director General of the Office of Transformation and Service Delivery (OTSD), Engr. (Dr.) John Ekundayo.