A fire erupted on Tuesday morning in the Ibadan South East area, adjacent to Mapo Hall. Fire service personnel have arrived at the scene and are currently working to extinguish the blaze. More details will be provided as the situation develops.
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.
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.”
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
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.
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.”
The Oyo State Government is set to initiate an aggressive campaign to recover unpaid market stall rents starting next week. The Ministry of Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives announced that this move is essential for infrastructure development and service delivery to residents. Commissioner for Trade, Industry,Investment, and Cooperatives, Mr. Adeniyi Adebisi, stated that the recovery effort is part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance revenue and ensure accountability. This decision follows a recent meeting with market representatives where it was noted that defaulters have been given a three-week grace period, which concludes on Monday, September 9th, 2024, to settle their overdue fees. Adebisi highlighted the importance of this initiative in supporting the state’s revenue and warned that non-compliance could lead to penalties or eviction. He praised Governor Engineer Seyi Makinde’s ongoing efforts to improve market infrastructure and services, including upgrading facilities, enhancing security, and implementing a digital payment system. Market representatives from Ogbomosho and Podo Ultra-Modern markets expressed their appreciation for the government’s support and committed to working closely with the authorities to ensure the success of this initiative. Adebisi urged all market stall holders to prioritize their rent payments to avoid any disruption to their businesses. The enforcement will impact several key markets, including Bola Ige International Business Complex, Temidire Ultra Modern Business Complex, and others across Ibadan and Ogbomosho.
A shocking incident unfolded on March 24, 2023, at the Iwo Road junction in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, where a mob nearly lynched a man accused of homosexuality. Adeola Fayemi, the alleged bisexual man, was attacked by a group of people who allegedly discovered his relationship with the driver of a Mercedes Benz car. Eyewitnesses claimed Fayemi was dragged along the road and severely beaten after being accused of having a homosexual relationship with the driver, who sped away in the car. Despite initial denials, Fayemi later admitted to being with the driver at a hotel but maintained their interaction was non-sexual. The mob’s anger did not subside, and they decided to take the law into their own hands. In a horrific turn of events, the mob attempted to burn Fayemi alive on their way to the police station. Fortunately, the men of the Oyo State Park Management System stationed at Iwo Road intervened and rescued him from the enraged crowd and he was able to escape eventually. Further investigation confirmed Fayemi’s bisexual orientation after tracing him to his residence in Ologuneru community, Ibadan, Oyo State.
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