Tuesday 15 October 2024

2026: SEVEN REASONS APC DUMPS OYETOLA

Recent reports about the alleged exit of Mr Gboyega Oyetola from 2026 are generating various interpretations among political pundits. The first point of call among analysts is to compile reasons why the former Governor may have been considered unsuitable to flag the governorship banner of the Osun State APC for 2026 state elections.

Some of the reasons adduced in several official and unofficial reports are as follows:

1.Electability- The former Governor is widely considered unelectable considering his failed outings in both 2018 and 2022. He only won through rigging in 2018 and was defeated in 2022 when the rigging was blocked by Osun people. APC strategists considered him an electoral liability who cannot shake the electoral hold of the Adelekes on the state of the living spring;

2. Low Performance: The governance records of the Marine Minister were judged as weak and uninspiring across the sectors. For four years, the Minister was rated very low across strategic sectors of the state economy including his apparent lackluster delivery of even the few projects he pushed through while in office. He was rated low as a Governor by even inner members of his team;

3. Sadistic, vindictive Leadership: The former Governor is openly described by APC operatives as very vindictive and unforgiving while in office and even after he was defeated as a Governor. The failure of the Minister to manage Mr Aregbesola whom he served as a Chief of Staff and his very harsh leadership style among others scare away many APC caucus leaders. They are afraid of the Iragbiji man getting near seat of governorship again;

4. Reputational Damage: The Marine minister is viewed as having suffered enormous reputational damage in his political.brushes with the Adelekes. At home and abroad, the incumbent is widely seen as having failed where Adeleke succeeded only within two years. APC strategists are thus fixated on seeking a fresh face with untainted public image and without electorally damaging baggage;

5. Zonal Considerations: Of the three senatorial districts in Osun , Osun central where Oyetola hails from has governed the state for a total of 15 years plus while Osun West is currently serving only four years plus as at today. The thinking is that Osun West deserves a second term by 2026 by which time the zone would have governed for 10 years compared to almost 16 years by Osun central. This is what prompted the search for an Osun West candidate by the APC for 2026;

6. National Power Play: Political forces at the centre have little or no confidence in the Marine minister's capacity to run a winning political race in Osun state. They blamed him for the rift between Mr President and Mr Aregbesola as much as they detest his leadership style and relationship approach. This negative perception of the former Governor is deep even within the inner caucus of Mr President. The drive to replace Oyetola thus has national back up;

7. Appeasement of Aregbesola: Some top APC leaders reason that Aregbesola may be persuaded to back down on his anti-APC stance if Oyetola is dropped as the APC candidate for 2026. Those in this category assume that the exit of Oyetola from the race may weaken Aregbesola's resolve.

Monday 14 October 2024

OSUN 2026: SRJ, LEKAN,OYEBAMIJI BATTLE TO SUPPLANT OYETOLA

BREAKING NEWS

OSUN 2026: SRJ, LEKAN,OYEBAMIJI BATTLE TO SUPPLANT OYETOLA

Amidst credible reports that marine minister, Gboyega Oyetola has opted out Of the 2026 race, three chieftains of APC in Osun state are engaged in tough battle to supplant their exited boss.

Chief Bisi Akande and some other top APC had reportedly prevailed on Oyetola to step down from the race as his chances of beating the incumbent, Ademola Adeleke, is very low.

Amanda and others were reported to have reasoned that a new face stands a better chance of beating the incumbent than an Oyetola who they believe has suffered irreparable reputational damage.

Oyetola camp was reported to have initially pushed back at the pressure on the ground that those being proposed as replacement for him are politically weak, lack solid rapport with the people and are likely to be easily crushed by the Adeleke political machine.

Oyetola was however overpowered in the ensuing brainstorming among top leaders even though Oyetola was said to have gotten a concession that he should have an overwhelming say in who would replace him as APC candidates 2026.

Ever since the unannounced exit of the Marine Minister from the race, three politicians from APC have been positioning themselves for the replacement race namely the current APC National Secretary, Ajibola Bashiru, the operation director at Nigeria Ports Authority, Lanre Badmus and the boss of National Inland Waterway Authority, Bola Oyebaminji.

The fourth Shadowy name being rumored to be interested is Senator Iyiola Omisore even though it is not clear if the Ife Prince is in the good books of either Oyetola or Akande, the main power brokers in the state APC.

The scheming among the contenders Include hosting of empowerment programmes where millions of naira are expended. Oyebamiji of NIWA and Lanre of NPA are particularly prominent in this style, development that exposes them to petition writings to anti-graft agencies Among others.

It was rumoured that petitions against the duo of Lanre and Oyebamiji were being raised by another camp who accused those running the empowerment programmes of engaging in corrupt practices.

An Oyetola loyalist who was bitter about the alleged forced exit of Oyetola from the race queried where Lanre and Bola are getting the fund from, hinting that the APC may produce replacement with anti-graft cases on their necks.

“They want to replace Oyetola. Is that how to go about it? They should get ready for petitions on their source of wealth. How can people be this reckless?

“And whoever among them can beat Adeleke? They are mere political ants. Adeleke will crush them mercilessly. How can Lekan, Bola or Badhiru beat Adeleke? We are just mere jokers”, the Oyetola ally posited.

A party official at state PDP secretariat told this reporter that the ruling party is not bothered about if Oyetola is dropped from the race or not, adding “ whoever is fielded by APC will be beaten by Governor Adeleke.

“We are winning in 2026 and we are considering supporting our son, Tinubu, if he contests for a second term. There will be no federal force here as Tinibu gets our back as we get Tinubu back.

“Tell those small fries. There is no vacancy at Abere come 2026. They should not waste their time. More importantly, they should not become customers of anti-graft agencies the way they are acting in their respective agencies “, the PDP chieftain affirmed under condition of anonymity.

●Culled from Gazette Times

Sunday 13 October 2024

Diaspora Groups Commend Governor Adeleke over Minning Reforms and Governance initiatives

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO- 13/10/2024 - Osunstate.gov.ng

Several diaspora groups have described the mining reforms and other good governance initiatives of Governor Ademola Adeleke as “impressive” and “unprecedented” since the creation of Osun State.

The Governor who was on transit to Nigeria in the United Kingdom after attending a livestock conference in Northern France hosted several leaders and indegenes of Osun in London with many listing several sectors for which the Governor has placed the state on global map of good governance.

A group called Osun UK. Professionals led by Bimbo Adekemi expressed surprise at the fast pace at which the Governor is pursuing infrastructure upgrade across the state at a time of tight economic situation across Nigeria.

The group noted that pursuing infra upgrade is a smart way of jumpstarting the local economy and ease environment of doing business to attract investment into the state.

The group particularly commended the courage of Governor Adeleke for demanding Osun’s rights from mining companies operating in the state, citing ongoing faceoff with Thors Explorations Limited as “a courageous move by selfless leader.

“We note the demand notice on the Thors Explorations as a bold move by a state Governor. Where others pursue under the table deals, Governor Adeleke is seeking due payments into the coffer of Osun state. This is about the first time we will see a Governor not asking for gold bars from mining companies but is seeking validation of state shareholding, payment of PAYE as demanded by law and calling out mining firms on degradation of the environment.

“We salute the courage of Mr Governor in his drive to secure state economic assets. Please don't give up in your multiple efforts to deliver good governance. Many of us here are encouraged to look back home for home bound investment”, Mrs Adekemi noted.

Another group, named Osun UK Royal Group led by Timileyin Oluyemi Ajayi from Ijesaland said Governor Adeleke has raised the hope of many Osun indigenes in Europe by his delivery of good programmes in digital economy, health, education, agriculture, climate change and infrastructure.

“Your Excellency, we praise your commitment to public service and your visionary approach to governance. We read all you are doing and our members visited home and also came back with reports of your touching so many areas , towns and villages. We are proud to call ourselves Osun indigenes.

“You have given Osun new tech policy, new energy policy, new procurement policy, new cocoa and cashew initiatives among others. You are doing so much in empowerment and cooperatives with billions being disbursed to grassroots businesses and artisans.

“You are paying billions of naira in pension and salary debts. Workers welfare is a priority areas you have delivered so excellently well. To imagine you have done so much under less than two years is an amazing testimony. We will head home to register to vote ahead of the 2026 governorship election, Prince Oluyemi posited on behalf of the group.

While receiving the various Osun indegenes in London, Governor Adeleke expressed delight at the positive feedback from the diaspora community, assuring that his administration is poised to do more in service of the people.

Describing his main goal as selfless service, Governor Adeleke repeated that leadership is about service and that he is running a race to uplift Osun and her people as quickly as possible.

“We are less than two years in office. We are running a good governance race. I seek to deliver a four year plan within less than alloted time. The reason is Osun demands urgent actions to fill in the massive developmental gap.

“We need you to join hands with us. Be agents of development by marketing Osun in the diaspora. Set up your business at home. Give back to the community. I promise to ramp up delivery of programmes and projects even as we near two years in office by November 27”, the Governor was quoted as saying.

Governor Adeleke has since returned to Nigeria.

Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to Governor Adeleke

Saturday 12 October 2024

RESTATING OSUN's CASE AGAINST THORS EXPLORATIONS

BY Prof Lukman Jumoda

Osun State government has called on the Federal Government as well as the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals to quickly prevail on the Subsidiary of Thor Explorations, Canada, Segilola to pay up payee taxes accrued to the State and amounts due on its acquisition of Osun shareholding as well as its responsibility on environment.

The State government stated this through Prof. Lukuman Adekilekun Jimoda, Special Adviser to the Governor on Mining and Mineral Matters while restating the state's case against Thors Explorations Limited.

This is against the backdrop of a fact finding committee set up by the Federal Ministry of Mines to look into the claims and counter-claims. The committee was giving a week or so to submit its report.

Professor Jimoda emphasized that the state government has been on these infractions for more than 18 months with series of engagement with top officials of the mining firm.

He said: “Our amiable Governor, Senator Ademola  Adeleke, had personally sat in four physical meetings with delegate of Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL or Segilola), a subsidiary of Thor Explorations (Thor) and with their Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Segun Lawson, in attendance.

“They always renege on their promises to pay their dues to Osun and they always run to the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development Abuja to precipitate diversion and delay. So, writing to the Ministry again after our Press Conference and their two public responses; we hope this is not one of those numerous tactics”.

Professor Jimoda noted: “It is no longer a news item that Osun State has a genuine Legacy Ownership Dispute with Segilola Resources Operating Limited (Segilola) and its latest owner, Thor Explorations Ltd (Thor), which previous governments have been “evading” since 2016.”

“If we look at the “Net Asset” figure on the balance sheet of Thor Explorations Ltd. today, with some factorization models, we can see what Osun shares in Thor Explorations worth in term of values. So, the Governor of Osun State will continue to demand for it. There were other cash considerations given to other shareholders that are yet to be given to Osun State since 2016. The latter dues are accruing interests in line with universal commercial term.

“Segilola had always denied our shareholding in Thor and on 15th April, 2023 the company officially communicated with us in “black and white” that Osun State had no share in Thor”.

He stressed: “Governor Adeleke directed us to keep on confronting them with facts and figures at our disposal, until they had to cave in on the 24th April, 2024, when they wrote to us that Osun State has bonus share of 5.1m shares.

“Although this confirmed our ownership but Bonus shares over what? Where is the electronic access to the shares? Then Segilola disappeared into the tiny air, again. That is bad corporate governance. You cannot alienate the right of shareholders and you cannot treat any shareholder with prejudice, no matter the percentage of its holding.

“Like we said in our last Press Conference, though, it took Segilola, over 12 months to accept in writing that Osun State owns 5.1million bonus shares of Thor. So, our case is not like other states, which the Minister has lumped us with and asking them to invest in the sector. We have always have interests in the sector since 1993 and the asset company, then, was Tropical Mines Ltd.  We had earlier made our submission to your Ministry on the historical commercial transaction, in which our interest in Tropical Mines Ltd was stripped by Segilola and was subsequently acquired by Thor in 2016; so, where is our shares?

“We made a detailed submission via a letter dated 2 July 2024 to the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development. We also did a presentation to the Ministry on the 15th August, 2024, but no official response from the Ministry up till now.

“We will like to inform you that the disputes can easily be resolved if Segilola demonstrates good faith as follows; (a) make a down payment of 20billion Naira out of the 60billion demanded as the outstanding principal and interest dues on cash considerations, which were supposed to have been paid in 2016 by Thor; (b) grant us access, electronic or otherwise to all our shares in Thor, including the bonus shares, recently conceded to us; (c) provide full repayment plan on the outstanding dues for the approval of the state Governor.

“Our Governor has said it severally that it doesn’t want Segilola to exit our state but to operate as a responsible company so as to deliver value to Osun State, as shareholder and to pay taxes/levies as stipulated by the federal laws on taxation; Personal Income Tax Act (PITA) and Company Income Tax Act (CITA).

“The two Acts of the National Assembly stipulate that the states have jurisdictions over PAYE taxes and levy on commercial activities. Segilola has failed to disclose its service providers, who are hiding direct and indirect employees on their balance sheets. So, how do we tax such employees despite the fact that PITA puts that within the purview of the states?.

“Some of these service providers are using chemicals, explosives, etc and how do we do proper security documentation or log them unto our database for tax assessment of their employees if Segilola does not cooperate with us?. To be precise, we wrote a letter to Segilola since 16th May, 2023 emphasizing the issue of security and proper documentation of all staff and operators but the company failed to disclose. One of the service providers is owing Osun State 336 million Naira as unpaid PAYE taxes of its employees. We have more than four (4) others, yet to be assessed because Segilola is shielding them away .

“We are yet to clear Segilola Resources Operating Limited on the N3.25 Billion tax obligations and none of its employees has been issued tax clearance certificate because for the past three months, Segilola has failed to provide the mandatory tax documents and information required.

“These include: (a) The official Gazette from tax authority permitting the five per cent of mining accommodation as Benefit in Kind; (b) Breakdown of the Operating Cost by vendors, stipulating Name of vendors, Cost, Type of services and the amount paid to vendors, The address of vendors, etc; (c) Evidence of remittance of withholding taxes; (d) Submission of the General ledger/activity reports and trial balances to verify salary and nominal payroll. It is unbelievable that a company, whose parent company is dual-listed on London and Toronto Stock Exchanges, cannot produce accounting records since July 11th, 2024.

“This is tantamount to Obstruction of tax process under section 97 of PITA and Segilola is unduly exposing its employees to legal prosecution by the state for working in Osun State without Tax Clearance Certificates.

“In line with the Court Order, dated September 27th, Osun State government has distrained the premises of Segilola on the 29th of September,2024, the premises, which are also being used by its staff and other tax defaulters on PAYEE taxes.

“This has been done with all sense of responsibility, it is excruciatingly painful but we have got to do what we have to do. The path to dispute resolution on tax is clear and simple in any tax jurisdiction, we require Segilola to (a) stop the obstruction of tax processes;(b) submit to us the outstanding tax documents/information required; (c) disclose all its service providers that are claiming exemptions of business premises’ levies and allegedly evading PAYEE taxes on employees’ salaries; (d) pay all outstanding tax liabilities established on direct and indirect employees, working on Segilola premises and sites. Once, these are done, we will communicate with Segilola and we will move beyond dispute”, Prof Jimoda posited.

Thursday 10 October 2024

YEYELUWA ADELEKE-SANNI CELEBRATES LATE HUSBAND ON POSTHUMOUS BIRTHDAY

PRESS STATEMENT

10/10/2024

The President of Adeleke Women of Substance, Yeyeluwa Modupeola Adeleke - Sanni has celebrated her late husband's posthumous birthday today with marathon prayer sessions, describing her late hubby as “a kind, generous and good hearted family man”

In an emotion laden posthumous birthday message, Yeye Adeleke-Sanni said late Sanni epitomized all that is good in a man even as she recalled his philanthropic obsession throughout his lifetime.

“ His entire life was about giving in cash and kind to the less privileged. His passion to uplift and support humanity was unrivaled. From him , I learnt so much in varieties of philanthropic practices”, Yeye Adeleke- Sanni posited.

Describing her late hubby as a savvy businessman with fear of God, Yeye Modupeola said Sanni's birthday brought the memories of the day a saintly being was gifted unto this world , noting however that God gives and takes.

While expressing happiness at the great legacies left behind by the late Sanni, she noted the huge gap left behind by the deceased and expressed appreciation to family, associates and friends for their unwavering support for her and the family since the transition of the family head.

“ Today, I celebrate my hubby's posthumous birthday with prayers for the continuous peaceful repose of his soul. We miss his fatherly loving support for me and the children. We hold unto his legacies of service and commitment to humanity.

“ On this day, we hold the flowers of remembrance very high as we offer ceaseless prayers for divine blessings on our late husband and father “, Yeye Adeleke- Sanni was quoted as saying in the posthumous birthday message.

Signed: Yeye Modupeola Adeleke-Sanni, Country Home, Ede.

Tuesday 8 October 2024

OSUN GOVT WARNS AGAINST ENCROACHMENT ON STADIUM LANDS

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO - 08/10/2024 - Osunstate.gov.ng

The Osun state government has warned against increasing encroachment on lands allocated for the construction of six stadia across the three senatorial districts.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, the state government frowned at the negative development, warning those engaging in such unlawful activities to stop forthwith.

“His Excellency, the Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi who supervises the Ministry of Sports has received several reports of such encroachment and even illegal sale of such lands to developers.

“The Deputy Governor has subsequently set up an enforcement team to clean up the situation. Members of the public are advised to stay away from the land”, the Commissioner noted in the statement.

“The State Government has noted with concern the activities of land marauders (trespassers) on the land allocated for the construction of six stadia in Osogbo, Ife, Ilesa, Ikirun Ede and Iwo and therefore warn them to desist from these acts.

“The general public should note that the Government is still committed to the construction of these stadia hence trespassers are advised to vacate the land without further delay as intruders will be dealt with according to the full extent of the law”, the statement concluded.

Signed: Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, Hon Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment

INDUSTRIAL TRAINING FUND ANNOUNCES OSUN AS SOUTH-WEST ZONAL HEADQUARTERS

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO– 08/10/2024– Osunstate.gov.ng

The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has announced Osun State as its South-West Zonal Headquarters.

The development was disclosed to the Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Technical and Vocational Education, Arch.Dapo Ademola-Adesina by the ITF management on Monday.

Recall that Arch. Dapo had on the 30th of May 2024, during a courtesy visit to the agency, proposed a collaboration with the Osun State Board for Technical and Vocational Education in the areas of Vocational and Skill Training, Skill-Up Artisans (SUPA) as well as Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES).

The proposal became successful as the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the industrial Training Fund, Dr. Afiz Oluwatoyin Ogun, sent his team to inspect various vocational sites in Osun state on the 13th of August, 2024.

This Strategic Partnership is in accordance with the vision of His Excellency, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke to reduce unemployment rate and promote the acquisition and utilisation of relevant skills for economic development in the state.

Signed: Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment

Monday 7 October 2024

Osun PDP Raps APC For Asking Governor Adeleke To Dissolve Cabinet

Press Statement

Osogbo- 7th October, 2024 - osunpdp.com

The ruling party in Osun State, Peoples Democratic Party has applauded the Honourable Commissioners, cabinet members and other appointees making up the government of His Excellency, Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, describing them as wonderful co-pilots in the ship of reshaping Osun State.

The PDP State Chairman, Hon Sunday Bisi made the commendation against the backdrop of the opposition APC calling for dissolution of the state cabinet, asking the opposition to keep its peace while nursing its wounds in hush tones.

He said "We wish to state that most of the appointees of His Excellency are grassroot politicians, who have lived in the midst of their people all their life. As a matter of fact, most of the Commissioners are Former Local Government Chief Executives who are well aware of the need of the good people of our dear state.

"Government to us, is not about noise making as was in the vogue of the discarded APC administration, whose cabinet members were mere 'Aide de luggage' to either the former governor or his wife.

"But for idleness taking excessive toll on the APC, it is never in their place to question cabinet composition of His Excellency as they are either part of the tested Osun Stakeholders that worked with the people of the State to send nomadic APC away, or core professionals, whose wealth of expertise is required to redirect the story of the state to that of prosperity for all and sundry.

"We wish to advise the APC to help itself from its boredom stagnation to join in the agric revolution activities of the PDP administration of His Excellency, apply for ploughers and engage in farming activities instead of exposing themselves to ridicules with moronic write-ups.

"All appointments made by his Excellency are in line with his agenda to rejig Osun State. His cabinet consists of people of innovative ideas that have impacted positively, the fortunes of Osun State

"But for the latitude of freedom of speech, how on earth would any right thinking opposition question and compare Asiwaju Ademola Adeleke's cabinet to that of the better forgotten porters, who left in the wake of their heartless looting of Osun State; an economy killing debt burden, thereby, increasing poverty to a level that brought the purchasing power of our aground.

"By the grace of God and active support of our people, His Excellency, Governor Ademola Adeleke has injected people oriented innovations into governance of Osun, which have encouraged business adaptability, cottage entrepreneurship, community support and enriched tourism. All these are product of a vibrant government cabinet and people with cognitive stakes in the development of Osun State.

"While we appreciate the resolve of our people to sustain the PDP administration in Osun State, our great party wishes to emphasize the need for collective action against the ruinous Apc.

"We assure the good people of Osun State that the PDP administration will continue to encourage accountability and purposeful leadership, support for local businesses, invest in education and skills development which certainly, will offer hope and optimism for a better Osun State."

Signed: Hon Sunday Bisi Osun State PDP Chairman 07/10/2024

Sunday 6 October 2024

Governor Adeleke declares Monday as Public Holiday for all teachers in Osun to mark World Teachers Day.

PRESS RELEASE

Governor Adeleke declares Monday as Public Holiday for all teachers in Osun to mark World Teachers Day.* OSOGBO/6/10/2024 Osunstate.gov.ng

In commemoration of the 2024 World Teachers Day, Osun state Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has declared, tomorrow, Monday the 7th of October, 2024 as a work free day for all teachers in both public and private schools throughout the state.

A press statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment,Oluomo Kolapo Alimi to that effect indicates that the holiday is with a view to identifying with all teachers throughout the state on the annual occasion in view of their invaluable contributions to the growth of education sector, not only in Osun and Nigeria but the world at large .

The Governors message on the occasion of this year's World Teachers Day as issued to the press men by Oluomo Alimi reads in part ; "I, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, the Executive Governor of Osun state heartily congratulate all teachers throughout the world and in particular in my dear state, Osun on the annual occasion of World Teachers Day being celebrated annually on every 5th of October .

"While it gladdens my heart and that of my administration to declare tomorrow as public holiday throughout Osun state, I admonish all teachers to use the one day public holiday as a means to cast a look at the past, present and future development of the state in the education sector .

"I am using this opportunity for the umpteenth time to assure you that my administration will continue to do everything morally and officially possible to put smiles on your faces in order to make you happy and fulfilled as purveyors of knowledge in this dear state of ours, Osun.

"Please accept my best wishes and congratulations on the occasion of the World Teachers Day . "Happy celebrations"ended Governor Adelekes message to the teachers of both public and private schools in Osun State.

E Signed Oluomo Kolapo Alimi Hon.Commisdioner Information and Public Enlightenment .

Thors/Osun Tax Dispute: Governor Adeleke Welcomes Federal Interventions, Clarifies Osun government position

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO- 06/10/2024 - Osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke has welcomed the intervention of the Federal Ministry of Mines on the state's tax disputes with Thors Explorations Limited, clarifying that the state has validated claims within the context of the Constitution and extant laws.

The Governor who had earlier reached out to the Minister of Mines, Dele Alake on phone said the state supports all efforts to drive Foreign Direct Investment into Nigeria but said investors have a duty to be transparent, obey local laws and protect the environment from degradation.

Explaining that the state government had opened discussions and negotiations with Thors Exploration since 2023 without any results, the Governor said Segilola Resources Operating Limited has an accumulated tax liabilities of N3.25 Billion with a Demand Notice issued in April, 2024.

The Governor who said Osun has the legal rights to collect tax liability also noted that Thors Explorations was operating six other companies on the site without disclosure to the state government for tax and environmental accountability purposes.

He listed the companies as follows; SINIC Engineering Limited, ATF Consulting Limited, Monument Nigeria Limited, Rabaa Cleaning Limited, Deep Rock Drilling Services and CEFO Security Limited

The Governor submitted further that Thor Exploration Limited confirmed that Osun has Five Million, One Hundred and Ninety Two Thousand, Eight Hundred and Ninety Six units of shares of Thor Exploration, United Kingdom, insisting that Osun is entitled to collect financial implications to date as a shareholder.

While lamenting the extensive environmental degradation occasioned by Thors’ mining activities in Osun state, Governor Adeleke said the company has a duty to pay for environmental reclamation even as the environment is on the concurrent legislative list.

“Osun state has a robust partnership with the Federal Ministry of Mines. Our state has several mining licenses. So we are critical stakeholders with a deep understanding of the laws and the constitution. Our action is to get what is due to our state as affirmed by extant laws and practices.

“We have a robust ease of doing business environment and we have several investors in various sectors of our state economy. We are only opposed to lack of transparency and accountability in the operation of the mining sector. Local laws must be respected and obeyed as is the practice in Europe and North America and the environment must be reclaimed.

“So we look forward to receiving the Federal fact finding team. We have prepared our position. Thors cannot hide under mining being on exclusive legislative list to avoid local tax, deny shareholders their rights and violate our environment with impunity”, the Governor was quoted as saying.

Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to Governor Adeleke.

Livestock Summit: Governor Adeleke Mulls Localisation of Livestock Innovations

NEWS RELEASE

06/10/2024

Governor Ademola Adeleke has expressed readiness of the state government to localise modern livestock innovations with a view to develop Osun dairy and livestock sub-sectors.

Speaking after a visit to a large dairy farm in Northern France and attending the world largest livestock summit in Clermont Ferrand along French partners, Governor Adeleke described advancement in livestock sectors as breathtaking, noting particularly the application of high tech and AI in the farm process.

Accompanied by the Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon Tola Faseru and other top policy advisers, the Governor who watched the farm tech application processes said it was noteworthy how the robot was used to milk the cows as well as the integration of dairy production into the livestock farming.

Aside from examining the special breed of cows on the farm and several thousands of hectares of land devoted to mechanized farming, the Governor also witnessed the special education imparted on the cows, leading to cow-machine rapport in the dairy production process.

At the summit in Clermont Ferrand, the Governor met several farm tech companies alongside several livestock specialized farms which expressed readiness to support Osun state in the development of her livestock sector.

The high point of the visit was the roundtable discussion between the French partners and the Osun delegation with the following conclusions namely; a visit to Osun by a delegation of the French partners, adoption of a demonstration farm ahead of such visitation, development of required policy framework by the Ministry of Agriculture and a development of a memorandum of understanding to cover training in modern livestock skills at Osun technical schools.

Governor Adeleke hosted delegations from other states of Nigeria and Africa with several of such officials informing the Governor of their full awareness of several positive sectoral developments in Osun state.

Speaking before leaving France for Nigeria enroute London, Governor Adeleke reviewed the summit and passed this verdict: “ Our attendance here is in furtherance of our commitment to entrenched agro-industrialization in Osun state.

“We have seen the role of AI and high tech innovations in modern livestock farming. We saw the deliberate integration of technology in the operations of the farm. We are open to partnership for the adoption of new practices. The Commissioner for Agriculture engaged the French partners on the details.

“We are in a hurry to transform Osun state and that is why you see me doing a governance marathon. We will leverage the new livestock agenda of the Federal Government in our drive to adopt new innovations in our subnational efforts”, the Governor posited.

Governor Adeleke was accompanied on the trip by two Special Advisers including the Special Adviser on SDGs, Hon Bamkole Omishore.

Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor.

Saturday 5 October 2024

GOVERNOR ADELEKE CONGRATULATES DEPUTY GOVERNOR, PRINCE KOLA ADEWUSI, ON HIS BIRTHDAY

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO– 05/10/2024– Osunstate.gov.ng

The Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has congratulated his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi, on the auspicious occasion of his birthday, hailing him as a dependable partner in the push to transform Osun state for the better.

Governor Adeleke notes the worthy contributions to the incredible achievements that his administration has recorded in 23 months, commending him for providing the needed balance that has better shaped the administration's focus to deliver for the people.

The Governor lauds the Deputy Governor's steadfastness and loyalty to the shared objectives of easing the pains of Osun people necessitated by past misgovernance and entrenches a relishing experience of a better tomorrow, saying he's a best partner that anyone would ever wished for.

"I'm thrilled to celebrate my hardworking deputy, His Excellency Prince Kola Adewusi, on the auspicious occasion of his birthday. Prince Adewusi is a partner anyone will wished for and I am always at ease knowing that he is beside me in the arduous task of making Osun a better place," the Governor was quoted as saying in a congratulatory message.

"In the 23 months of our administration, Prince Adewusi showed true sense of purpose and zeal towards the delivery of good governance. I am proud of the great things we have achieved together and have no doubt that we will go on to achieve even more in the future."

While affirming his faith in him to continue to be of service to the people, Governor Adeleke prays to God Almighty to bestow on Prince Adewusi good health, long life and enduring grace to make more impacts in Osun and beyond.

Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed, The Spokesperson to the Governor

Thursday 3 October 2024

You're A Role Model For Young Entrepreneurs, Gov. Makinde Lauds Adegbulugbe

Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has described an entrepreneur and philanthropist, Engr. Kayode Adegbulugbe, as a role model to young Nigerian entrepreneurs, whose future in the business world would be unprecedented.

Governor Makinde, while commissioning the newly built seven-star The JAGZ Hotel, Ibadan, on Tuesday, said Adegbulugbe’s business acumen is noteworthy and a brave one.

He commended Adegbulugbe for contributing to the growth of Nigeria by investing in the country, describing the architectural design of the hotel as one of the best in the country.

Governor Makinde added that establishing such an 80-room capacity hotel in Oyo State aligns with his government's efforts to boost the local economy and create jobs.

Responding, Engr. Adegbulugbe, who's the founder/Chairman of Agboluaje Kajola Foundation, praised governor, Seyi Makinde, for providing an enabling environment for investors to thrive in the state.

According to him, The JAGZ Hotel is poised to become a landmark in the hospitality industry of Oyo State and its environs, as it is ready to offer world-class services to its customers.

The hotel, which runs on 79% solar power and is located at Iyaganku GRA, opposite NUJ Press Centre, has standard executive, double-standard rooms, a 359-seat conference hall, a swimming pool and other ultra-modern facilities.

The facility also aims to provide international standards services at affordable prices.

Also present at the commissioning is the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, Larooye II, who gave his royal blessings to the facility, and the owner, Prayers were also offered by the Chief Imam of Osogbo, who led other notable Islamic clerics to the event.

Other dignitaries at the event include Chief Jimoh Ibrahim, Chief Olayunde Akanni, the Eketa and Ekerin Iyalode of Osogboland, Asiwaju Olusegun Akintade, Iyalojas, Agboluaje Kajola Foundation's family, and well-wishers.

GOVERNOR ADELEKE APPOINTS AFOLABI ADEOLA BABATUNDE AS CMD, UNIOSUN TEACHING HOSPITAL

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO- 03/10/2024- Osunstate.gov.ng

The Governor of Osun state, Senator Ademola Nurudeen Jakson Adeleke, has approved the appointment of a tested medical practitioner and entrepreneur, Dr. Afolabi Babatunde Adeola as the Chief Medical Director of Uniosun Teaching Hospital, Osogbo.

The appointee was one of the nine applicants who were extensively screened by the panel instituted for that purpose by the State Governor.

Membership of the Committee includes Mr. Mufutau Oyeleke Oluwadare, (Chairman, Osun State Civil Service Commission), Dr. Muyiwa Oladimeji (Chairman, Osun Health Insurance Scheme), Dr. Kingsley K. Akinroye(Chairman, Osun State Hospitals' Management Board), Prof. C.O. Adeoti, Prof. Bolaji Omitola, Mr. Busayo Oladejo, Mr. Kolawole Najeem Akintola, among others.

The names of the nine applicants screened by the panel are Dr. Afolabi Adeola Babatunde, Prof. Adekanle Adebode Daniel, Prof. Adebami Joseph Olusegun, Prof. Adeleke Ajao Najeemdeem, Dr. Oyeniran Olaolu Ayodeji,Prof. Esimai Olapeju, Prof. Fadiora Olufemi Solomon, Dr. Adebayo Olaide Kazeem and Dr. Akindokun Samson Segun.

Dr Afolabi Babatunde is a distinguished medical professional born on December 22, 1972, in Inisha, Osun State, Nigeria. He hails from Ekosin, Odo Otin Local Government Area.

He obtained his medical degree from the University of Ilorin (1990-1998) and completed his residency training at the then LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Osogbo. He completed his N.Y.S.C National Service at National Hospital Dala, Kano.

He is a fellow and examiner of the West African College of Physicians and member of the National Postgraduate Medical College. He has held various leadership positions at Osun State University Teaching Hospital, including Casualty Officer, Accident and Emergency; Chief Resident, Family Medicine; Head, Department of Family Medicine; Head, National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS); Chairman , Staff Centric Clinic , Acting Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee; and two-term Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee ( last CMAC of LAUTECH and 1st CMAC of UTH).

Dr. Afolabi B. A. is an active member of several prestigious professional organizations, including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), West African College of Physicians (WACP), Society of Family Physicians of Nigeria (SOFPON), Deacon of Baptist Family, and member of Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP). Notably, he serves as the present Chairman, SOFPON, Osun State chapter, and also the Chairman of Baptist Health Fellowship of Osun Baptist Conference.

He is happily married to Dr. (Mrs.) Afolabi Adebimpe, a consultant pediatrician & and pediatric cardiologist.

Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor.

GOVERNOR ADEMOLA ADELEKE APPROVES #3.3BILLION FOR RETIREES

NEWS RELEASE

GOVERNOR ADEMOLA ADELEKE APPROVES #3.3BILLION FOR RETIREES

OSOGBO - 03/10/2024

The Governor of Osun State, His Excellency, Senator Dr Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, has again approved a whopping sum of Three billion and Three hundred naira only (#3,300,000,000.00) for the payment of accrued rights (bond certificates) of a number of workers who retired under the Contributory Pension Scheme across the State.

Of this amount, #1.5b is for retirees at the State level comprising Ministries, Departments, Agencies, secondary schools and tertiary institutions while the sum of #1.8b is for those who retired in the local government service, junior and primary schools across the State. The fund approved is undergoing due process at the Bureau of Public Service Pension and the Local Government Staff Pension Board.

It should be noted that this approval is apart from the regular monthly payment of pension and gratuities to retired public servants under the old pension scheme across the whole gamut of the public service.

It will be recalled that workers and pensioners welfare top the 5- point Action Plan of Governor Ademola Adeleke - led administration in the State. The Governor has been keeping with this promise since he came on board in November, 2022 going by his unhindered love for public servants and the entire citizens of the State.

Signed, Elder Ayanleye Aina, Head of Service, State of the Living Spring

Wednesday 2 October 2024

Osun PDP Reacts to APC Allegations of Violence

Press Statement

Osun PDP Reacts to APC Allegations of Violence

●Says Ruling Party Requires No Violent Hammer To Dislodge Apc Lazy Ants Of Electoral Fraud

OSOGBO -2nd of October, 2024 osunpdp.com

The Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) wishes to address the recent allegations of violence made by the All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding the 2026 governorship election in the state.

As a party, we categorically deny any intention to employ violence or self-help to "crush the remnants of the troubled APC" in Osun State. The widely acknowledged performance of His Excellency, Asiwaju (Dr) Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke is more than enough to sustain the trust of the Osun electorate in our great party in 2026 and and beyond.

Instead of trickling around with allegations of unfounded violence against the ruling party, we warn the APC to cease its anti-democratic tendencies, boasting about replicating the fraudulent hijack of Edo State in Osun.

The APC's social media claims that Edo State was forcefully stolen through the federal government's force of coercion are baseless and of no effect on the intelligent people of Osun State. Their unpopularity in Osun cannot be salvaged by threats of violence or rigging.

We remind the APC that they cannot "eat their cake and have it." Having bargained for failure and rejection by the people, it's illogical for them to seek life after demise.

We make bold to bring to their conscientiousness, the unbreakable spirit of the army of Osun voters, who went ahead unperturbed, to disband the APC from office despite their then seamless capture of a neighboring State, prior to the July 16, 2022 governorship election in Osun State. Things will turn out worse for them in 2026 and that is a promise they must take to the bank!

We acknowledge the APC's admission that Governor Ademola Adeleke is not a violent leader and will not subscribe to bloodshed.

However, as a symbol of mass movement against APC's misguided administration in Osun, the PDP may not control every electorate's reaction to the opposition's boastful threats.

The sorrowing APC must not be too tearful to forget that even federal government derives parts of its power from Osun State citizens, and will amount to mental clumsiness for some piled drunkards to pray that Osun State should be leveled by the President Tinubu led federal government, ostensibly to make up for their bargained losses.

The APC's reliance on President Tinubu's Violent hammer, if any, to possibly destroy all human assets in the state to regain power for them, with all the writings on the wall against them, is lazy and admittance of their low electoral value.

The APC should listen to reason and stop overpricing itself. Dislodging them from office they must remember, took a lot of courage without firing a shot by the same Osun people they are beginning to underrate again; even when their desperation tendencies appeared impenetrable. Attempts to break the same people will therefore, require more than barrels of guns. We have warned! Signed, Oladele Bamiji Osun State PDP Media Director 02/10/2024

Osun Launches Online Portal For 2025 Jerusalem Pilgrims Application

PRESS RELEASE

GOV. ADEMOLA ADELEKE LAUNCHES ONLINE PORTAL FOR 2025 HAJJ APPLICATION

In a bid to ensure simple, seamless, transparent, accountability and accessible process of Hajj registration, Osun State government under the leadership of Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke has launched Muslim and Christian Pilgrimage portals for all intending Muslims and pilgrims in Osun State for the year 2025 Hajj.

In a statement released by Osun State Commissioner for Home Affairs who supervises the state Pilgrim Boards, Hon. Aderibigbe Rasheed noted that the adopted process will ensure transparency and accountability in the coming Hajj process, while assuring that the initiative will ensure Tranparency and Accountability of the Hajj and entire Pilgrim application Processing in the State.

In view of this development, Osun State government is hereby imploring Members of the Public who is interested in the year 2025 Hajj pilgrimage should logon to muslimpilgrim.osunstate.gov.ng to Apply for 2025 Hajj. Christian Pilgrims should apply at christianpilgrim.osunstate.gov.ng .

E-Signed: Hon. Aderibigbe Rasheed Commissioner for Home Affairs in Osun State.

Osun Launches Online Portal For 2025 Jerusalem Pilgrims Application

PRESS RELEASE

GOV. ADEMOLA ADELEKE LAUNCHES ONLINE PORTAL FOR 2025 HAJJ APPLICATION

In a bid to ensure simple, seamless, transparent, accountability and accessible process of Hajj registration, Osun State government under the leadership of Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke has launched Muslim and Christian Pilgrimage portals for all intending Muslims and pilgrims in Osun State for the year 2025 Hajj.

In a statement released by Osun State Commissioner for Home Affairs who supervises the state Pilgrim Boards, Hon. Aderibigbe Rasheed noted that the adopted process will ensure transparency and accountability in the coming Hajj process, while assuring that the initiative will ensure Tranparency and Accountability of the Hajj and entire Pilgrim application Processing in the State.

In view of this development, Osun State government is hereby imploring Members of the Public who is interested in the year 2025 Hajj pilgrimage should logon to muslimpilgrim.osunstate.gov.ng to Apply for 2025 Hajj. Christian Pilgrims should apply at christianpilgrim.osunstate.gov.ng .

E-Signed: Hon. Aderibigbe Rasheed Commissioner for Home Affairs in Osun State.

Osun Launches Online Portal For 2025 Jerusalem Pilgrims Application

PRESS RELEASE

GOV. ADEMOLA ADELEKE LAUNCHES ONLINE PORTAL FOR 2025 HAJJ APPLICATION

In a bid to ensure simple, seamless, transparent, accountability and accessible process of Hajj registration, Osun State government under the leadership of Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke has launched Muslim and Christian Pilgrimage portals for all intending Muslims and pilgrims in Osun State for the year 2025 Hajj.

In a statement released by Osun State Commissioner for Home Affairs who supervises the state Pilgrim Boards, Hon. Aderibigbe Rasheed noted that the adopted process will ensure transparency and accountability in the coming Hajj process, while assuring that the initiative will ensure Tranparency and Accountability of the Hajj and entire Pilgrim application Processing in the State.

In view of this development, Osun State government is hereby imploring Members of the Public who is interested in the year 2025 Hajj pilgrimage should logon to muslimpilgrim.osunstate.gov.ng to Apply for 2025 Hajj. Christian Pilgrims should apply at christianpilgrim.osunstate.gov.ng .

E-Signed: Hon. Aderibigbe Rasheed Commissioner for Home Affairs in Osun State.

DEFAMATORY STATEMENT: GOVERNOR ADELEKE THREATENS TO SUE APC DIRECTOR FOR N5 BILLION DAMAGES

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO - 02/10/2024 - Osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke has threatened to direct his lawyers to sue a media director of Osun state All Progressive Congress (APC), Mr Kolawole Olabisi for Five Billion Naira as damages over a defamatory statement issued today in Osun state.

The APC director had accused the Governor of complicity in a viral recording by a supposed PDP chieftain who issued an alleged threat to bomb the state electoral commission and kill top officials of the commission.

The APC director went further to call for the investigation and prosecution of leading leaders of the PDP including Governor Adeleke for allegedly directing the issuance of the recording by the unnamed PDP Chieftain.

The State Governor in a statement by his spokesperson described as irresponsible the defamatory allegations by the APC director, asking him to retract the baseless and unfounded allegations or face legal action.

“The allegation is reprehensible, baseless and defamatory. Mr Governor has ordered his lawyers to review the situation and demand retraction as the Governor did not and has not in any way planned or plot any attack on either INEC or any electoral official.

“Upon failure to retract the offensive publication, the state director faces a potential libel suit with a demand for five billion naira damages. This deliberate falsehood will have consequences”, the statement noted.

Ever since the Edo election, many operatives of Osun APC have been boasting across media platforms to violently rig 2026 governorship elections. We have all the clips of threats and vows to snatch 2026 ballots at all costs.

As a populist and performing leader, Governor Adeleke is however not bothered by those depressive rantings as the Osun PDP possesses electoral deterrence alongside being solidly on ground with the enhanced backing of the people of Osun State.

As much as we understand that Governor Adeleke's superlative performance is driving many Osun APC leaders crazy, it is the height of insensitivity and irresponsibility to level such grievous allegations against a state Governor widely known as a man of peace across party lines.

Governor Adeleke has therefore resolved to legally pursue this grave accusation. Fake news will not go without consequences.

Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor.

2026: SEVEN REASONS APC DUMPS OYETOLA

Recent reports about the alleged exit of Mr Gboyega Oyetola from 2026 are generating various interpretations among political pundits. The ...