Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill 2.0 Is More Than Food Festival – Chef Wendy

By Adeleke Maria    The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Wendy’s Kitchen, who also doubles as the Convener of “Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill, Chef Chinwendu Festus Wendy, popularly known as Chef Wendy has affirmed that 2024 edition of the culinary event themed “Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill 2.0” will be more that just a food festival. “Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill is a culinary event that started in the year 2023 with the aim of showcasing local talents in culinary business, as well as positioning Ibadan City to the world as a culinary powerhouse within Nigeria’s growing fast food industry. As of 2023, Ibadan was valued at a staggering N250 billion ($602.5 million) by the Association of Fast-Food Confectioners of Nigeria (AFFCON). The maiden edition of Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill was colourful and successful, as over 5,000 food enthusiasts, photographers, videographers, brand managers and ambassadors, event planners, chefs, food vendors, fun seekers among others graced the event that was held peacefully at the Ibadan Polo Club, Eleyele, Ibadan thereby making it an annual event. In a statement issued by Wendy’s Kitchen Boss, Chef Wendy affirmed that the 2024 edition of Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill codename “Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill 2.0” will be more than just a food festival. Wendy noted that Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill has become an annual event, stressing that the 2.0 edition will be another celebration of flavours and culinary talents in Ibadan and its environs. Maintaining that her team is ready to take Ibadan by storm, as over 10,000 food enthusiasts have been invited across the country and are expected to savour the city’s finest cuisines. She stated that, “This event which is scheduled to hold on Sunday, December 1st 2024, at the Ibadan Recreation Club Eleyele is going to be more than just a food festival, aimed to serve as a springboard for local chefs while positioning Ibadan as a culinary powerhouse within Nigeria’s burgeoning fast-food industry. “Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill is on a mission to create a platform for talented chefs to emerge and establish Ibadan as a culinary force to be reckoned with in Nigeria. “This second edition of Ibadan Chop ‘n’ Chill” promises to be a feast for both the medium and upper classes in the society, as it will offer an irresistible assortment of culinary delights, workshops, competitions, and entertainment. The event will feature an extensive selection of delectable dishes from both local and international cuisines. “Promising that indigenous and international chefs will all gather under one roof, ready to delight and entice taste buds. Expert chefs will lead engaging cooking workshops, revealing their culinary styles and demonstrate how effortless it is to craft exceptional dishes.” “Ibadan’s beloved radio presenters will step into the culinary ring in an intense cook-off, competing fiercely for the prestigious culinary crown. That’s not all, get to explore food and lifestyle exhibits that showcase the latest in culinary innovations, from modern kitchen gadgets to mouthwatering delights.” “Food photography enthusiasts will have the chance to shine in the Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill food photography contest, while live music and captivating performances will maintain the festive atmosphere throughout the day.” “Purified Entertainment Company Limited, a brand known for showbiz and promotion of upcoming music talents, is one of our partners for this event and all their artistes will be on ground performing live to entertain our guests and also to make the event a memorable one.” “We are also seeking partnership deals from brands who are interested in showcasing their products, while our doors are open for sponsorship from various organizations. Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill 2.0 promises something exciting for everyone. Interested organizations and brands can reach out to us through our various social media platforms.” Wendy stated.

Court Jails Two Brothers, 33 Others For Internet Fraud In Ibadan (PHOTOS)

  The Ibadan Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has secured the conviction of two siblings, Samuel Adedeji Adeboye and Charles Adedamola Adeboye and thirty-three (33) others for internet fraud before Justices Ladiran Akintola, Bayo Taiwo and O.S. Adeyemi of the Oyo State High Court, sitting in Ibadan. The 33 convicts are: Oluwadamilola Michael Omotayo, Boluwatife Ajewole Alaran, Michael Damilare Badaru, Oyewole Ismail Oluwatayo, Mudashiru Oluwatobi Oyebamiji, Ebuka Michael Oluwatobi, Azeez Hammed Ademola, Adelayi Adetunji Wellington, Isaac Ifeoluwapo Oke, Muraina Toheeb Adeola, Hammed Ismaheel Ayomide, Adedayo Opeyemi Ogundele, Ajose Oluwaseun Alaba, Bolarinwa Tobi Samuel, Alabi Ayomide, Omodayo Obatomiwa Adedayo, Asoro Taiwo Oluwafemi and Sebili Ibrahim Sunday. Others are: Seun Ebenezer Anjorin, Adewale festus Prosper, Adubi Oluwatimileyin Abiola, Lawal Qwwatullah Opeyemi, Jegede Boluwaji Victor, Waris Tomiwa Atanda, Adebayo Adeoye Okikiola, Opeyemi Uthman Adeleke, Michael Olalekan Akintola, Abdulazeez Taiwo Adisa, Ebuka Ogbonna Emmanuel, Augustine Chukwuka Okoh, Ayomide Temitope Adekunle, Edunjobi Toheeb Ayobami and Abdulganiyu Sakiru Adebayo. They were prosecuted on separate one-count charge each that bordered on impersonation, obtaining by false pretence, retention of proceeds of crime and possession of fraudulent documents. The charge against Samuel Adedeji Adeboye reads: “That you Adeboye on or about the 8th day of June, 2024, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, with intent to defraud, falsely represented yourself as James Jonathan to Wendy Rose, which representation you knew to be false and thereby committed an offence of impersonation contrary to Section 484 of the Criminal Code Law of Oyo State, 2000.” The charge against Charles Adedamola Adeboye reads: “That you, Charles Adedamola Adeboye sometime in July, 2018, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, aided an internet fraudster, one Olowooye David (at large) by helping him and other internet fraudsters to receive funds, which form the proceed of obtaining money by false pretences, wherein you benefitted the total sum N200, 000.00 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira), thereby committed an offence of aiding the commission of felony: obtaining money by false pretence contrary to Sections 7 (b) and 419 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 30, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.” All the defendants pled “guilty” to the charges when they were read to them, prompting prosecution counsel, Modupe Akinkoye, Oluwatoyin Owodunni, Chidi Okoli, Sanusi Galadanchi, Lanre Suleiman, Shamsuddeen Bashir and Mabas Mabur to pray the court to convict and sentence them accordingly. Justice Akintola convicted and sentenced the Adeboye brothers to one year imprisonment each, with N100, 000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) option of fine for Adedeji and N30, 000.00 (Thirty Thousand Naira) for Adedamola. He convicted and sentenced Omotayo, Alaran, Badaru, Oluwatayo, Oyebamiji, Oluwatobi, Ademola, Adeola, Alaba, Samuel, Sunday, Anjorin, Abiola, Opeyemi, Victor, Atanda, Okikiola, Adeleke and Akintola to one year imprisonment each or to pay a fine of N100, 000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira), N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira), N150, 000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira), N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira), N250, 000.00 (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira), N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira), N200, 000.00 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira), N200, 000.00 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira), N200, 000.00 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira), N200, 000.00 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira), N200, 000.00 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira), N120, 000.00 (One Hundred and Twenty Thousand Naira), N100, 000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira), N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira), N500, 000.00 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira), N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira), N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira), N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira) and N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira), respectively. Also convicted and sentenced by Justice Akintola are, Oluwafemi and Prosper who both got six months jail term or to pay a fine of N100, 000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) each. Others are: Wellington and Adedayo who both got six months community service or a to pay a fine of N100, 000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira) each; Ismaheel Ayomide, who bagged six months community service without option of fine and the trio of Oke, Ogundele and Alabi Ayomide, who bagged three months community service or to pay a fine of N50, 000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira) each. Justice Taiwo convicted and sentenced Adisa to five months imprisonment or to pay a fine of N150, 000.00 (One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira), Okoh got four months jail term while Emmanuel bagged five months community service without an option of fine. Justice Adeyemi on her part slammed Ayobami with one year community service and three months community service each for Adekunle and Adebayo, all without option of fine. Besides their sentences, all the convicts forfeited items recovered from them to the federal government. Ademola, Oyebamiji, Adeola and Alaba forfeitured four Lexus cars; Victor and Samuel forfeited two Toyota Camry cars, Ayobami forfeited a Mercedes Benz car while Sunday forfeited an Acura car, being proceeds of their crime.  

5 Worshippers Died, Others Hospitalised For Eating ‘Feast’ In Ibadan Church

  Five worshippers have been confirmed dead, while others are on admission at the Infectious Disease Centre, Olodo area of Ibadan, Oyo State, after they took part in a feast known in Yoruba parlance as ipese organised by an Ibadan-based white-garment church. However, as of the time of filing this report on Saturday, about 50 of the worshippers had been discharged from the centre Sunday Tribune gathered that the incident happened during a service held in the church last Sunday. The feast otherwise known as ipese, as reliably informed, is part of the traditional events in conformity with the church’s doctrine. A source in the church said that it has not been established medically whether the ipese was responsible for the death of the affected victims. According to him, “I ate the prepared beans like every other member, including the victims and nothing happened to me. “The incident was not all about ‘ipese’ as made to believe. “The various organs of government, including the police, Directorate of State Services, (DSS), media organisations, World Health Organisation (WHO) have been to this place on a fact-finding mission “Their findings are yet to be made public, but I can tell you that it is not about ipese as being insinuated. “It is true that some victims are still undergoing treatment at IDC Olodo. “Also, there is no iota of truth in the rumour that the church premises have been put under lock and key. “The Shepherd-in-Charge has been attending to visitors since morning. He is taking his test. You (our correspondent) can’t see him now unless you come tomorrow during the service.” Also, a senior medical staff at IDC Olodo, who preferred anonymity, confirmed the incident. He said 50 of the victims that were rushed to the IDC have been treated and discharged. According to him, “Some of the affected persons were brought to the centre for treatment. As of today (Saturday), 50 of them have been discharged while others are still on admission. “The state commissioner for health is likely to address the press on the incident next week. When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Adewale Osifeso, confirmed the incident. According to him, “Investigation is ongoing on the matter.”

Ibadan Rainstorm Wreaks Havoc: 2 Dead, 2 Missing, Properties Worth Millions Destroyed – NEMA [PHOTOS]

  Following the heavy downpour that led to flash flood in some areas in Ibadan, Oyo state capital especially in Ibadan South-West and Oluyole Local Government areas on Tuesday, 24th September, 2024, the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA says two persons were confirmed dead. NEMA Southwest Zonal coordinator, Mr Kadiri Olanrewaju disclosed this while briefing stakeholders on the effect of the downpour after an assessment tour of Ibadan South West and Oluyole local government areas. The agency in collaboration with Oyo state Emergency Management Agency, SEMA, and the Nigeria Red Cross Society carried out the on the spot assessment of the affected communities. He also disclosed that the flood disaster affected residential buildings, shops, noting that property worth millions of naira were destroyed while many persons were displaced. He said “Unfortunately, Two (2) deaths were recorded while Two (2) persons are still missing. The NEMA South West Zonal Coordinator however sympathized with the affected persons, appealing to residents to take proactive measures during raining seasons.

Gov Makinde Receives Ibadan Circular Road Protesters•••Reiterates Commitment To Prioritise The People’s Welfare

By Adeleke Maria    On Monday, Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, received Ibadan Circular Road protesters at the Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, noting that his administration is a listening government that will continue to look out for the well-being of everyone. Governor Makinde also used the opportunity to reiterate that his administration has not acquired any land on the corridor, stating that while the former Governors Lam Adesina and Rashidi Ladoja set the 150 metres mark, the administration of former Governor Abiola Ajimobi acquired and gazetted additional 350metres. He reassured the protesters that any buildings that have already been erected within the 500m corridor but outside the 150m corridor will be accommodated in the development. He also called on the residents to send representatives that will sit with the authorities to determine how they will be accommodated in the corridor development. Governor Makinde also stated that anyone who has not started their project within this corridor should not start now as they will not be accommodated within the new arrangement. In his words: “I have a solution. For now, there will not be any demolition and I have asked them to put a stop to whatever demolition they are doing. I promise you. Anyone who already has a building within the 150m-500 metres, none of the houses that are standing right there will be demolished but there must be no further development on that corridor.” The governor, who appreciated the protesters for their peaceful conduct, reiterated that his administration would continue to prioritise the welfare and well-being of the people of Oyo State while also keeping its focus on developing the state sustainably, saying “you will have to appoint some representatives in these communities to sit down with the government and look for a way out, because we are doing the Circular Road project so that we can create employment opportunities for our people. We will have industries along the corridor.” Speaking earlier on behalf of the affected residents, Prince Niyi Fasoye, Chief Olaniran Ere Asalatu and Mr Azeez Olaide applauded Governor Makinde’s developmental projects, especially the construction of Ibadan Circular Road, which they noted had influenced development around the area. They also appreciated the governor for his favourable response to their plight.

Taye Currency, Klever Jay, Others To light Up Purified Entertainment’s Independence Day Show In Ibadan

  In a unique celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary, Purified Entertainment,in partnership with Bottles Republik, is gearing up to host an exciting Independence Day Show on October 1st in Ibadan, Oyo State capital. The event, themed: “Purified Live Experience 001 Naija Sima Dun,” aims to uplift the spirits of the local community amidst current economic challenges. Mr. Agboola Babawale, also known as “Mr. Purified,” the CEO of Purified Entertainment, shared insights about the show during a press conference at Bottle Republik. He emphasised that the event is not only a celebration but also a platform for reviving the entertainment scene in Ibadan. “We want to provide an avenue for people to shake off stress, unwind, and enjoy live performances from both established and emerging artists,” he stated. The lineup for the show features prominent Fuji artist Taye Adebisi Currency, alongside other talents such as Klever Jay, Sinleke, Davidainojadu, Rave Temper, and Young Flow Alhaji. The event is set to deliver an unforgettable experience, complete with live performances, DJ sets, and dance showcases. Babawale highlighted the growing concern around mental health and the role of entertainment in alleviating stress and depression. “Our brand is committed to bringing smiles to faces and creating a fun-driven society,” he remarked. The show is free for all attendees, with options for VVIP reservations available for those seeking a premium experience. “In preparation for the event, the Purified Entertainment team is collaborating with local security services to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all participants.” The Media Manager Mr. Kazeem Awojoodu, indicated that this show will be the first of many planned events, aimed at enhancing the entertainment landscape in Oyo State. He disclosed that the organisers of the show are in talks with security operatives in order to provide adequate security and ensure hitch-free fanfare. Awojoodu said that the show is going to be a continuous event in consonance with the aim of the brand, adding that the company management has been meeting with people that matter in the entertainment sector of Oyo State with aim of stepping up in the entertainment ladder in the country. “As anticipation builds, this Independence Day Show promises to be a highlight of the season, bringing together music lovers and fostering a sense of community in Ibadan.”

Oyo Governor, Makinde Launches Upgrade Of Ibadan Airport To International Standards

  By Adeleke Maria   Oyo State Governor ‘Seyi Makinde held a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday to initiate the upgrade of Samuel Ladoke Akintola Airport in Alakia, Ibadan. The project aims to enhance the airport’s facilities to international standards, promising to connect the state to global markets upon its completion. The governor maintained that the upgraded airport would also improve the ease of doing business, bring in investments in agribusiness, manufacturing and technology sectors and position Ibadan as a true regional business hub. Governor Makinde stated this at the airport in Alakia, during the groundbreaking ceremony for the upgrade of the facility to an international airport, noting the project had been awarded to Messrs Craneburg at the cost of N41 billion. He promised to do everything possible to ensure that the project is delivered in the next 12 months. This was as the governor assured residents of the state that the Presumptive Tax Law recently passed by the Oyo State House of Assembly will not be implemented at this time due to the general hardship facing the people, stating that his government will only fight poverty and not poor people. He said: “We took an important decision yesterday at the Executive Council Meeting. We know times are hard and Nigerians are hungry and angry. But I hope this will not boil over. But in Oyo State, we have control over what we can do here. I can see that the House has passed the Presumptive Tax Bill. Yes, it came from us because if we need to expand economy, we need to generate money. I will sign it into law but we will not implement it for now.” He said his administration would only promote policies that would leave money in the pockets of the people of Oyo State so that they could spend same on areas important to them. While stressing that his government would not do anything to deliberately hurt the people, Makinde said the government had paid due compensation to land owners in Ajia, who lost their property to the new Air Force Base being constructed in the area. According to the governor, the decision to upgrade the airport was taken based on data and logic, adding that it is a strategic investment that includes a first and second phase that will culminate into the upgrading of the airport, the runway, airfield lighting, terminal and other critical facilities. He said: “Let me specially thank the members of the committee, who worked on the project in the last six weeks to make it possible for the official groundbreaking ceremony to take place today. “Some people do not think that upgrading this airport at this time is a good idea, but the decision to upgrade this airport to international standard is based on data and logic. In the next twelve months, this project will be delivered. I will push the envelope”. “This airport will connect Oyo State to a global market. It will improve ease of doing business, bringing investments into agribusiness, manufacturing and technology sectors and positioning Ibadan as a true regional business hub.” The governor listed MRO and cargo facilities as some of the features the upgraded airport would parade, describing the project as a strategic investment that would be delivered on time and within budget. He added, “This is the first phase; the groundbreaking is the first phase. The second phase is the terminal itself. Once we do the runway and air-field lighting, we will have the terminal and they will be delivered about the same time. We don’t want to wait. After this groundbreaking, the committee will be working to kick-start the process that would ensure that complementary projects within the airport are also going to start. “I want to congratulate Craneburg for winning this bid. They gave us the lowest bid and they are working on the Circular Road, so we know what they are capable of doing. We gave them an impossible deadline on the Alao-Akala Memorial Highway and it was delivered.” The governor also used the opportunity of the event to commend the Deputy Governor, Barr. Lawal for acting as governor when he was away on vacation, while also lauding residents of the state for supporting him. Governor Makinde, who called on residents of Edo State to support the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Saturday’s governorship election in the state, Mr Asue Ighodalo, said the candidate would deliver the goods to residents of the state. He equally noted that he and the Osun State governor are solidly behind the Amb. Umar Ilya Damagum-led National Working Committee of the PDP, saying: “I am also glad that our Acting National Chairman and members of his National Working Committee are here. I was reading yesterday that there was another meeting in Bauchi. Let me say clearly that we are 100 per cent in support of the Damagun-led NWC. Whatever decision you take, we will support you to reposition our party. “Let me also say this; even if we have issues within ourselves, we have an important election on Saturday. So, we should just rally round and deliver our candidate to give real hope to our people.” Earlier, Osun State Governor, Senator Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke congratulated Governor Makinde on the groundbreaking ceremony for the upgrade of the airport, describing him as a man of vision and a passionate agent of development in Oyo State. He also saluted Makinde’s drive of leaving behind a good legacy of impactful innovation and infrastructure revolution to the people of his state. In his welcome remarks, Air Commodore Victor Ajiboye, who is the Commander National Air Defence Corps, Nigerian Air Force, Ikeja, Lagos and also a member of the Ibadan Airport Upgrade Committee, assured that upon the completion of the project, Ibadan would be better positioned as an economic hub in the South-West Nigeria. The representative of the Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola family, Chief Akinwunmi Akintola, thanked Governor Makinde for remembering and honouring the family with the … Read more

Ibadan Traditional Leaders, CCII, Baales, And Mogajis Lauds IGP For Promoting Ibadan Indigenes To CP Rank

  By Adeleke Maria   The traditional institution in Ibadanland, comprising family heads (Mogajis), Baales, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), and local rulers, has expressed gratitude to Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun for promoting indigenous Ibadan members to the rank of Commissioner of Police, particularly the recent appointment of Ishola Olanrewaju Olawale as Commissioner of Police in Lagos State. He takes over from CP Adegoke Fayoade, who has been promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General of Police and since redeployed as AIG Zone 2 Headquarters, Onikan, Lagos. A statement signed by the Coordinator, Ibadan Compound Peace Initiatives (ICPI), Mogaji Nurudeen Akinade said the development highlighted collaborative efforts between Ibadan’s traditional institutions and the Nigerian Police Force. According to the release, aside retired CP Fatai Owoseni who is now the Special Adviser (SA) to governor Seyi Makinde on security matters, five Ibadan Indigenes has also been elevated to the post of a Commissioner of Police to serve in various capacities in Police Command. The statement said the recognition of Ibadan indigenes as Police Commissioners is as a positive step towards community development and effective policing. The statement stated that the move demonstrates the IGP’s commitment to promoting distinguished talent and expertise in maintaining law and order. “Ibadan’s traditional system, known for its unique hierarchy and cultural significance, continues to play a vital role in promoting stability and growth in the region. The Mogajis, family heads, and Baales are essential components of this system. “The elevation of Ibadan indigenes to Police Commissioners is a testament to the community’s growing influence and partnership with government agencies. “As Ibadan continues to grow and develop, this collaboration will be crucial in shaping the city’s future.” The statement however congratulated the new CPs, saying Ibadan people will celebrated soon.

Makinde Flags off Upgrade Of Ibadan Airport, Wednesday

  Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde will, on Wednesday, flag off the project for the upgrade of the Ibadan Airport, Alakia to an international airport. The flag-off comes a few weeks after the governor inaugurated an 11-man committee set up to oversee the delivery of the project. The committee is headed by a former Commissioner for Finance, Mr Bimbo Adekanmbi. Recall that the Federal Government granted the Oyo State Government the approval to go ahead with the upgrade of the facility following several efforts and projects instituted by the state towards attaining Governor Makinde’s vision to turn around the facility for the state’s economic benefits. Speaking during the inauguration of the committee on July 30, Governor Makinde had noted that the upgrade of the airport would support his administration’s drive to expand the economy of the state through agribusiness. He noted: “The decision to convert our existing local airport into an international airport was not a hasty one; we are not engaged in a let-me-do-this-because-other-governors-are-doing-it-competition. “This is a well-thought-out decision based on science, logic and data. This vision is already four years old and we laid the groundwork in our first tenure. We have completed the 500,000-litre aviation fuel storage and dispensing facility, which has been concessioned to Bovas Group. “We have also upgraded part of the facilities which increased the number of airlines including Ibadan in their flight schedules.”