Governor Adeleke to Mr Oyetola: "Happy Birthday to a Big Brother"

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Governor Adeleke to Mr Oyetola: "Happy Birthday to a Big Brother"
OSOGBO - 29/09/2023 - Osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke has felicitated with the former Governor of Osun state and Minister of Blue Economy, Mr Gboyega Oyetola on the occassion of his 69th birthday anniversary.

In a statement he personally signed on Friday, Governor Adeleke described the advancing age of the minister as a divine grace and pray to God to grant the minister more blessed years on earth.

"It is my pleasure to congratulate my dear big brother on the occassion of his birthday. I thank God for granting my predecessor another blessed year.

"On behalf of the people and government of Osun state, I convey our heartfelt good wishes. Whereever my brother is, he should please enjoy his day", Governor Adeleke noted in the statement.

Signed:
HE, Senator Ademola Adeleke, Executive Governor of Osun State

Governor Adeleke Cancels Independence Day Celebrations, Directs Statewide Prayer for Nigeria

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OSOGBO- 29/09/2023 - Osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke has cancelled celebration of independence day earlier slated for Sunday October first.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the Governor urged Osun people to pray for the continious peace and prosperity of Nigeria.

"Let us use the Independence Day to meditate and pray on the state of our nation. Our people are passing through tough times. It is time to take stock and seek divine intervention and guidance in the affairs of our nation.

"I greet Osun people and Nigerians in general as the Independence day knocks at our doors. Here in Osun, we will celebrate with meditation and prayers", the Governor was quoted as saying.

Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor

At NEC Meeting, VP Shetimma Lauds Osun State as Gov Adeleke, Others Advocates Action on State of the Economy

Vice President Kashim Shetimma has commended the government of Osun State over the successful hosting of the National Joint Planning Board meeting, describing Osun as a good host for a new national economic roadmap for the nation.

Speaking at the National Economic Council meeting held today at the State House, Abuja, Senator Shetimma expressed appreciation of the whole country to Osun state for being "a fantastic host".

Responding, Governor Adeleke who joined other Governors at the meeting accepted the best wishes of the Presidency and affirmed that Osun is also empowered in its push to reform the state economy.

Governor Adeleke and other Governors canvassed concerted efforts to halt oil theft so as to increase dwindling national oil revenue.

The meeting addressed other matters of national importance.

Osun State Contributory Pensioners Appreciate Gov Adeleke

LETTER OF APPRECIATION TO GOVERNOR ADEMOLA ADELEKE BY OSUN STATE CONTRIBUTORY PENSIONERS

WHAT A LISTENING GOVERNOR!!! Looks as if, all PDP Governors in Osun State are drinking from the same cup full of human feelings and compassions.

Baba was Olagunsoye Asola Omo Oyinlola, Olokuku-kookin, started it all throughout his over seven-and-half-year in government. Then, our present set are still in active service. Asola's level of labour/pensioners friendliness remains immeasurable forever.

For almost eight years under Olagunsoye, no strike, no protest, nothing like sit at home or agitations of any kind. Asola started on a peace loving note. He fulfilled his promises of returning all those unjustly sacked by the previous administration he took over from, mostly teachers then back to their teaching jobs and duty posts as a pre-election agreement between those dismissed then and the PDP, as a party.

Omo Balogun of Edeland, Senator Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke has also taken the baton of compassion from Asola Oyinlola, from the same party, PDP, in relating with Osun State Contributory Pensioners. After so much, our people felt sidelined in the payments of half salary areas, bonds and the cash backing of our promotion letters from 2013-2022. We made a lot of noise that some forces against us never allowed us to get the milky-heart of our amiable Governor Ademola Adeleke, until not up to a week ago. Osun State Contributory Pensioners after losing most of their members to avoidable deaths, ailments and impoverishment, resolved at our last meeting, at the instance of the State Pressure Group, to write a letter asking for the immediate payments of our rights and entitlements within two weeks after which we shall embark on peaceful protests to bring our predicaments to the outside world against our then perceived, inhumanity of Osun State Govt, against we, Contributory Pensioners. Not that alone, we embarked upon media wars, both off-line and online, extending our Protests'notice to all the existing security bodies in Osun State.

Surprisingly,not up to a week of our ultimatum, our God-fearing Governor Ademola Adeleke, though,away in Abuja on official trip, marshalled all the Osun State Government functionaries, ably headed by His Excellency, the Deputy Governor of Osun State, Elder Kola Adewusi, Abu Onife Ooni, to quickly arrange and invite the already charged and emotional aggressive Contributory Pensioners'Representatives to the round table at the Govt Secretariat, Abere Osogbo, where all sides were attentively listened to and ably resolved very maturely.

Assisting the Deputy Governor at the parley were the Gentleman Secretary to the State Government (SSG),Teslim Igbalaye, black ebony and the natural replica of his late father and philanthropist Hadji Igbalaye (of blessed memory) (Aljanna Fridau, grant Baba Oh Lord). Barrister Kolapo Alimi, Osun State Commissioner of Information, was also there in his candour, despite being earlier provoked.

On the Civil Service side were the Head Of Service, Elder Aina, the State's Accountant General, who did not utter a word throughout, but also in tandem with the peace meeting. Hadji Raji, the State's Director of Pensions, Permanent Secretary, Local Government and Chieftaincy Titles, Hadji Hakeeb, are all on the high table. To our amazement, all of them handled everything maturely, drumming it persistently that they were all directed by His Excellency, Gov Ademola Adeleke, to do everything at the instance of Osun State Government, to make us happy and forestall the impending Peaceful Protests.

There, after much deliberation, the Osun State Government invited Chams, who was instructed to release our June, 2016, half salary arrears to the Primary, Middle Schools and Local Government Contributory Pensioners immediately and without further delay. God bless Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye, the State's Chief of Staff, who was away from the State but was monitoring the Peace Meeting, vigorously. The Government side, through the Head Of Service, also promised to release another half salary arrears before next week runs out, with another two before the end of October,2023. As for our bonds, works are in progress for a near massive release of bonds, very progressively and an immediate approval of Special bonds to our ailing members with terrible and severe ailments (about 48 or more) to rescue them from untimely deaths and avoidable embarrassments.

The meeting lasted till late Monday afternoon and before you know it, by Tuesday afternoon the following day of our peace neeting with the Govt-side, alerts for June, 2016 half salary, started rolling in for the unbonded Primary, Middle Schools and Local Government Contributory Pensioners across the State as promised. The Head Of Service also promised that we should be expecting another half salary arrears before next week runs out by the grace of God.

On behalf of all Osun State Contributory Pensioners, all The fourteen of us that came to represent our people, just one female,Mrs Jolasun,was among us, now say, VERY BIG THANK YOU to Osun State Government. Our people shall remain grateful forever with full cooperation in transparent honesty. We also appreciate your fatherly-handling of the knotty issues and your readiness to listen to any of our observations or grievances, whenever the need be. All these shall be conveyed to our people at the State general meeting coming up on Thursday, 28-09-2023 at 10 am.

Once again, thanks very much, Osun State Government, Governor Ademola Adeleke, His Deputy, and other cabinet members. We also appreciate the Adeleke Dynasty, starting from Elder Deji Adeleke, Yeye Dupe Sanni and a host of others. Our Oliver Twist still wants more as we promise our unflinching supports and loyalties to both the Govt and the PDP nationwide, starting from Osun State here.

Thanks so much Sirs and Mas.
SIGNED: Awodele, Olusola Abiodun State Pressure GROUP Chairman Osun State Contributory Pensioners Wednesday, 27-09-2023

Your Criticism Of Governor Ademola Adeleke On Health Is Affront On Common Sense, Osun PDP Tells APC

The Osun State PDP has asked the APC to busy themselves with substance engagement of the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke instead of frivolities and idle talks reminiscent of a confused, gasping opposition.

Osun PDP Chairman, Hon Sunday Bisi, condemned attempt by the APC to distract attention of Nigerians from the import of Governor Ademola Adeleke in his address delivered by the Special Adviser On Public Health, Dr Akindele Adekunle at the annual symposium organized by the Department of Surgery, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, College of Health science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

While His Excellency was admonishing the Surgeons to join hands with the government at all levels and across the states of the federation, to address what is fast becoming a national emergency of mass emigration in the health sector, the APC minnows were quick to infuse their 'one corner politics' into such critical issue.

Governor Adeleke in essence, was laying credence to his workable interventions in the health sector by providing a conducive working environment for doctors and other health practitioners with a view to motivating them to stay on their job in the country and not just Osun State. Attendence at the symposium was well beyond conceptual sphere of Osun State and even Nigeria and one wonders how it was so difficult for the APC to understand this.

The state APC wanderers are advised to limit themselves to their hand to mouth politics and not poke near frank and productive interaction that is strange to their anti-people DNA.

APC record in the health sector in the state was not only terrible but frightening. Many consultants and doctors in critical departments in the state health facilities, who have left their job by force of resignation or death were never replaced. All entreaties made to them by these doctors to look into their deteriorating working conditions were rebuffed throughout their inglorious reign in the state.

Today, doctors in the state owned Uniosun Teaching Hospital and other health facilities are now being treated with dignity they deserve. The Residency Training Allowance hitherto forbidden by the APC has already been approved for the doctors amongst many other frantic efforts of Governor Ademola Adeleke to turn around the all important sector.

It is therefore strange that APC would conjure some filthy guts to criticize efforts of Governor Ademola Adeleke in addressing the mess piled up by the APC in this regard for several years. That to us was nothing but affront on common sense.

The good people of the state must note that the PDP government of Governor Ademola Adeleke has and will not sack any personnel in the state health sector. Those placed on hold were the knee jerking haphazard and wishy-washy trappings set by the teary government of yesterday.

A government that needed to wait till it got hammered by the electorate in the state couldn't have had any other intentions than to destroy the state with all sorts of wee hours, vengeful decisions, which the new government had to reverse for a fraud proof and desperation free process.

Signed.
Hon Sunday Bisi Osun State PDP Chairman. 28/09/2023

We'll support and empower women in the mining sector- Governor Adeleke

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO - 28/09/2023 - Osunstate.gov.ng

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has expressed commitment to supporting and empowering women in the mining sector.

The Governor made this known on Wednesday at the Gold and Gemstone Conference and Exhibition (GGCE, 2023) at African Gemstone and Jewellery Conference Centre, Lagos.

Represented by the Special Adviser, Mining and Mineral Matters, Prof Lukman Jimoda, the Governor noted that the inclusion and empowerment of women in the mining industry is not only essential for their own economic emancipation but also for the overall growth and prosperity of our state and nation.

He maintained that the Osun state government under his watch is committed to promoting gender equality and the full participation of women in all sectors of the state's economy.

He said "Osun State is one of the key states in Mineral Exploration and Mineral Processing. We have around 300 mining titles within the state. Out of these titles, Osun State has 6 mining titles (3 Mining and 3 Exploration Leases). Our state also has other 13 licences across other states which include Kogi, Kwara, Oyo, Zamfara, Kaduna and Niger states. We are also at the tail end of converting our exploration leases to mining leases. At the end of the exercise, our State will be having 42 Mining Leases and 2 Exploration Leases.

"It is now crystal clear that our State is one of the strongest states in the mining industry. Our state is presently working toward engaging our women in Cooperative exploration and finally Buying Centres. This will be an attempt to finally empower our women. The inclusion and empowerment of women in this critical industry are not only essential for their own economic emancipation but also for the overall growth and prosperity of our state and nation.

"My administration is committed to promoting gender equality and the full participation of women in all sectors of our state's economy.

"We firmly believe that empowering women in mining is not just a matter of equity; it is also a strategic imperative for sustainable development. While we acknowledge the challenges that women in mining often face, such as limited access to resources, education, and opportunities, we also recognize the incredible resilience, resourcefulness, and determination that they bring to this industry. It is our responsibility to create an enabling environment that harnesses the talents and potential of our women miners.

"Under my leadership, Osun State has taken significant steps to support women in mining. We have initiated programs to provide training, access to modern technology, and financial assistance to women miners. These efforts are aimed at improving their working conditions, enhancing their safety, and increasing their productivity.

"We understand that the journey toward gender equality in mining cannot be undertaken by the government alone. We call upon the private sector, civil society organizations, development partners, and the international community to join hands with us in supporting women in mining. Investment in this sector is not just an investment in women; it is an investment in the sustainable development of our state."

Governor Adeleke also expressed commitment to gender equality and women's empowerment in Osun State adding that his administration is determined to break down barriers and create pathways for women to thrive in the mining industry and beyond.

"We look forward to fruitful discussions, valuable insights, and concrete recommendations emerging from this seminar, which will undoubtedly contribute to our collective efforts in advancing the cause of "Women in Mining," Governor Adeleke added.

Signed
Mallam Olawale Rasheed Spokesperson to the Governor

Osun Govt Clarifies Infrastructure Agenda, Says Funding Plan is Sustainable

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO - 27/09/2023 - Osunstate.gov.ng

The state government has an infrastructure plan that has a sustainable funding model and which targets facilitation of economic growth and development of the state.

Commissioner for Information, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi made this clarification in response to advocacy of non governmental groups such as the Osun Masterminds and the Coalition for Good Governance(C4GG) on planned flyover bridges, dualisation of roads and pension matters in the state.

The Commissioner who commended the civil society groups in Osun state said the government is opened to counseling and advice especially when such are dispassionate and devoid of political partisanship, assuring that "the ship of state is progressing to deliver on good governance.

"On state of security, Governor Adeleke has ensured robust response by regular hosting of the state security council meetings, by forging inter agencies collaborations and by the ongoing reform of the Amotekun corps.

"Not minding that police and other outfits are federal bodies, the Governor has created a security architecture that integrates formal and informal security bodies for the urgent task of securing Osun state.

"On the state of infrastructure , this administration inherited a huge infrastructure deficit which it is working hard to bridge and which has led to the construction of over 50 kilometers of roads and rebuilding of several bridges.

"Federal roads are however particularly challenging because of the scale of the job and because the Federal Government of President Bola Tinubu is also just settling down.

"Governor Adeleke is however committed to addressing the road crisis, hence the revival of the state road maintenance agency which has become more active in the last few months.

"On the issue of flyover in Osogbo, we assure the public that the project design is such that it will not create an unbearable burden on the state even as the state needs to upgrade her infrastructure to achieve economic growth.

"At the Ipade Imole coming up on October 5th, Governor Adeleke will unveil full details of dualisation of roads and flyover bridges which other towns other than Osogbo will also benefit from, all under a financially and environmentally sustainable model.

"On subsidy palliatives, we clarify that the state government is not shrouding the distribution process in secrecy as a public committee comprising various sectors of the society successfully handled the exercise.

"We also want the public to note that Osun is already under an emergency with almost N100 billion debt while still paying half salary and pension debt alongside pressing needs from all sectors such as infrastructure, education, health among others.

"Aside from the palliatives, the Government is also set to unveil details on the disbursement of the N2 billion which was part of the N5 billion promised by the Federal Government.

" On pension matters, we are glad to report that a meeting between the pension stakeholders and the government has produced positive results with common template in place to ensure that all segments of the pensioners' population are duly covered

The government including the Honourable Commissioner for Information has the greatest respect for the pensioners as our senior citizens", the statement noted.

According to the commissioner, the only plea which all stakeholders have accepted is the need to refrain from playing into the hand of some politicians whose goal is to derail the ongoing strong push to resolve the N56 billion naira inherited pension debt.

Signed
Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, Honourable.Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment

"OMIPIDAN LIED AGAIN, SDG PROJECT NOT HANDED OVER TO THE MINISTRY"

PRESS STATEMENT 27/09/2023

The attention of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Osun state has been drawn to a frivolous claim of the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the former Governor of Osun State, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, that the administration of Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke was playing politics over the skill acquisition centres in Dagbolu and Iragbiji.

The nebulous propaganda, which the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) is known for, would have better been ignored but to set records straight for the sake of Osun public and posterity.

The documentary approval by the former Governor Oyetola, to hand over the Skill acquisition centres to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, which can better be described as "audio approval" was neither delivered nor implemented in physical terms.

Recall that the former Governor rebuffed all efforts of the incoming government for proper handing over, in all ramifications, till November 27, 2022 when Governor Adeleke took over the reigns of power.

As a matter of fact, proper handing-over of the Skills Acquisition Centers at Dagbolu and Iragbiji, to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, was not properly done until the arrival of Governor Adeleke.

"While the immediate past Governor of Osun State reportedly approved that the centers be handed over to the ministry, forces around him stalled and blocked the handing over process. Powerful forces within the administration ensured the handing over did not take place under the former Governor

"We want to affirm that the centers were not physically handed over to the ministry before the immediate past administration exited office on 27th November, 2022".

"However, on the direction of Governor Adeleke, the two centers under lock and keys were eventually inspected and handed over to the Ministry led by the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Bunmi Jenyo".

Members of the public are therefore urged to disregard the noise of Mr. Ismail Omipidan whose duty is to propagate and defend the many lies and deceits of his paymaster.

SIGNED
Rev Bunmi Jenyo, Hon Commissioner for Commerce and Industry

Osun Pensioners: Adeleke is not Oyetola

By Ismail Abdulganiyu

Few days ago, there were rumors by APC e-rodents that Osun pensioners would go on street protest against Governor Adeleke's administration. Findings later revealed that the rumors are coming to reality as the proactive team of Gov Adeleke discovered that the sorrowful APC was trying to use some sections of Contributory Pensioners to destabilize the state.

I can't forget in a hurry how Pensioners protested during Oyetola regime carrying placards with different inscription; “Pay our contributory pension fund”, “Release our bond to prevent the untimely death of members”, “Cashback our bonds promptly” etc. Among series of protests that happened during Oyetola-APC Government, I can remember that of July 1st 2020, September 30th, 2021, October 26th, 2021 and November 23, 2021 where thugs were sponsored to dispersed our fathers and mother's that have served the state meritoriously for expressing their fundamental rights.

However, since Governor Adeleke assumed office in November 2022, he has started offsetting the humongous debt arrears of pensioners and workers he inherited from APC past administrations. Governor Adeleke inherited 30 months half salaries of pensioners, unpaid gratuities since 2015 and unpaid monthly pensions since 2015. All these debts were rascally neglected by Oyetola's administration.

As part of his campaign promises to be friendly to pensioners, Governor Adeleke in his 10 months in office has paid 4 months arrears of salaries of workers and pensioners which had been unpaid since 2016.

Furthermore, since Gov Adeleke took over the leadership of the State from Satanic Oyetola; here is the breakdown of pensions and gratuities his administration has paid:

• At State level, the sum of 8.5 Billion has been released for pensions and gratuities of retirees from Ministries, MDA, Secondary and Tertiary institutions. Specifically, 3.6 billion was released for retirees pensions while a sum of 4.9 billion has been released for gratuities.

• At Local Government Level, so far, 8.57 billion has been released for Local Government and Primary Schools retirees for their Gratuities and Pensions.

It is important to remind ourselves that Oyetola-APC administration left over 100 Billion debt that Adeleke Government inherited and has been trying to offset this based on the available resources. From November 2022 that he assumed office, Gov Adeleke has paid over 17 billion for pensions and gratuities of Osun retirees.

To the naysayers that are claiming Adeleke has failed to look after pensioners; they should know that Adeleke is not Oyetola that jettisoned payment of pensions and gratuities of retirees he inherited from his predecessor; a Government under which he served as Chief of Staff. His Excellency, Governor Adeleke is God-fearing, righteous, open-minded and committed to welfarism of workers and pensioners.

Ismail Abdulganiyu is the Coordinator of Osun Light Media Team and from Irepodun LG, Osun State.

Very Soon, Education Will Take A New Turn Under Gov Adeleke

The Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke is committed to repositioning education in the state through teachers training, capacity building and recruitment of needed teachers into the state teaching service.

This was the position of Comrade Temitope Mustapha Adeyemi, the Chairman of the Osun State Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM during his routine visit to Oduduwa Grammar School Ile-Ife and Modakeke High School in Modakeke to meet with teachers.

Comrade Adeyemi affirmed that Governor Adeleke is ready to address critical issues that will positively turn around the educational fortunes of the state.

According to him, the Governor has promised to implement the reccomendations of the recently concluded education summit report in utmost good faith.

While answering question from some of the teachers, the Chairman assured them of the readiness of the Adeleke administration in improving the welfare of the teachers in the state.

Those who accompanied the chairman on the courtesy visit include, the Executive Secretary of TESCOM Mrs, Mrs Funke Fabusiyi, the Permanent Secretary/Tutor General Osun East Education District Mrs Oladimeji Arinola Kikelomo, the state Chairman of Osun Parents Teachers Association Hon. Moshood Fadare and other Directors in the Commission.

Governor Adeleke Decry Dwindling Number Of Experts In The Medical Field, Described Them As Life Savers

The Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has decried the dwindling number of experts in the medical field as a source of worry even as he described them as life-savers.

The Governor made this known today at the 9th Annual International Oncology Multidisciplinary team symposium organized by the Department of Surgery, Faculty of Clinical Science, College of Health Science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

The Governor who was represented at the event by his Special Adviser on Public Health, Dr Akindele Adekunle further reiterated its readiness to support any innovative ideas that can stem the wave of increasing cancer related diseases in Nigeria.

" It gives me joy to be here today in the midst of life savers - The Surgeons. It also gives me greater joy that this brainstorming event is holding in our dear state and in this prestigious citadel of learning, the great Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

" It is an interesting time for surgical oncologists in the country and especially in our dear state. The rate of cancer related cases, as you must be aware, is becoming troubling and more troubling is the dwindling number of experts in the medical field to combat the menace.

" Going by the experience of the state government in the recent medical outreach initiated by our government, in which about 55 thousand Nigerians in Osun State have benefitted, we cannot but begin to raise a toast to our doctors, especially the surgeons —to pay tribute to them, for your painstaking lane of service to humanity.

" Many who have resigned to fate of early grave were revitalized through surgical interventions performed by our valuable medical officers,

" Many have unconsciously played around with life-threatening lumps until some of your colleagues came to their surgical aide through our government support and bailed them out of their helplessness.

" Therefore, if the state government was able to achieve the target goals so far in the medical outreach or even to do more in days to come in the health sector, it is because we are standing on your shoulders" the Governor stated.

Governor Adeleke further eulogies and commended surgeons, medical specialist and oncologist for being a life-saver and contributing immensely to the sustainance of humanity through the discharge of their duties and responsibilities and further said the state is ready to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to improve healthcare service in the state and give attention to sensitive medical issues like cancer and other related terminal diseases.

" We salute the oncologists, the cancer specialists, be it medical, radiation, or surgical oncologists. Like I mentioned earlier, this brainstorming assembly wouldn't have come at a better time than now.

" Osun State government under our healthcare agenda, would leave no stone unturned to partner with life saving institutions like this great body, to breath life to dying cells" Dr Akindele reiterated onbehalf of the Governor at the event.

The Governor thereafter challenged the gathering to use the 3Day symposium to center their deliberations around breaking barriers of opportunities for training and grooming more capable hands in order to stem the dearth of medical experts and brain drain in the health sector and also to reduce medical tourism of Nigerians.

Among notable dignitaries at the event is the former Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole.

Osun NUP Calls for Pensioners' support for Adeleke govt

....Abort proposed Protest by Contributory Pensioners

Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Osun state chapter have called on pensioners in the state to rally support for the government of Ademola Adeleke in his bid to ameliorate the long suffering of the retirees in the state, just as it councelled the proposed protest by the contributory pensioners.

This was contained in a release issued and signed by Prince Ganiyu Salawu and Comrade Dele Aina, the state chairman and secretary of the union respectively.

The union noted that, the abortion of planned rally by the contributory pensioners became imperative considering the giant steps the state government is taking in improving the welfare of the pensioners in the state, adding that, the government have met with the warring factions of the pensioners and their issues have been resolved.

The release read in thus; "In view of the meeting held with the state government representatives, the state chapter of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners have pleaded with the warring contributory pensioners to let's embrace dialogue as there's lot to gain in dialoging than being confrontational"

"It's in lieu of this that, the state office of the pensioners is appealing to all pensioners in the state to support the present government in its bid to ameliorate the suffering of the pensioners in the state"

"We want to state here that, though, we are aware of the yearnings of the contributory pensioners and we have been in talking terms with the government to ameliorate the long suffering of the pensioners in the state, which the Contributory pensioners and 2011/2012 forum were not exempted'

"In as much as the government owes us duty to pay our dues which we have all laboured for, we still believe in dialogue rather than confrontation"

"We hereby declared that, the planned protest is aborted as we still believe we can resolve the issue with dialogue"

"We want to enjoin the pensioners across the state to let's give the government time to be able to sort out things in our favour"

ADELEKE IS MANAGING OSUN FINANCES SUSTAINABLY– OSUN PDP

NEWS RELEASE 26/09/2023

The Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) carpeted the All Progressives Congress (APC) over its criticism of the state's finance, clarifying that Governor Adeleke has been sustainably managing state economy and finance.

"A Governor who inherited over N500 billion debt and is still paying salaries, pension debt and delivering on major projects cannot be accused of running the state aground. Anybody making such allegations is likely financially illiterate.

"Osun state inherited from the APC government was financially wrecked. Yet, Governor Adeleke manages to pay monthly salaries without default till date. He has paid over N17 billion naira from inherited N56 billion naira debt. He is paying half salary debt instalmentally.

" The Governor has constructed over 50 kilometers of roads. Several bridges and channelisation projects are completed. Free medical surgeries are being held with over 50, 000 beneficiaries.

" Osun's financial management model is superbly sound. All over the country, people are asking how Governor Adeleke is so smartly governing despite the financial liabilities. The record of the administration in financial prudence is astounding.

" For us in PDP, we believe APC leadership is suffering from undiagnosed political ailment that has destroyed its soul. It is reprehensible for a party that plunged the state into avoidable debt cumulatively close to N100 billion to accuse the successor party of misdemeanor.

" In saner climes, APC and its jobless and frustrated hatchet writer will by now have quitted partisan politics. By now,they should be facing a probe for destroying a buoyant state economy handed over to the APC 12 or so years ago.

" Governor Adeleke is however more concerned about stabilizing the ship of state. He rejected the possibility of probing those who plunged the state into current debt,choosing instead to salvage the state finance and economy", Hon Bisi noted in the press statement.

He warned APC to desist from its lies so as not to force the PDP government to revisit its policy on book of the past, adding that " looters of yesterday risk being unmasked to face the consequences of their maladministration"

Signed
Hon Sunday Bisi, State Chairman, Osun State PDP

Gov Adeleke Extols YEMKEM at 60

NEWS RELEASE

LAGOS - 24/09/2023 - Osunstate.gov.ng

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has commended Dr. Akintunde Ishola Ayeni popularly known as YEMKEM for his positive impacts in the lives of Nigerians.

The Governor stated this while speaking at the 60th birthday celebration of Prince Ayeni Gowon Estate, Ipaja, Lagos State

Senator Adeleke said he is proud of the many life-saving discoveries in the field of traditional medicine in Nigeria by the celebrant which has made him to cure millions of Nigerians of numerous ailments.

The Governor who endorsed YEMKEM products said "I am using their products and can testify to their potency and efficacy".

Senator Adeleke, who endorsed the products of YEMKEM International , called on the national icon of traditional medicine to come and establish a branch of his company in Osun State, promising that the state government will support the company in any way possible.

According to Senator Adeleke, "it's pertinent for all of you who are n the traditional medicine industry to rally round YEMKEM and avoid envy and jealousy so that the industry will keep growing from strength to strength".

The Governor described YEMKEM as a very reliable friend who could be trusted with anything.
He prayed to God to bless the celebrant with long life and prosperity.
Speaking earlier, Dr. Akintunde Ayeni described Senator Ademola Adeleke as a hero who neither forgets nor forsake his old acquaintances.
Signed
Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to State Governor.

Gov Adeleke is set to resuscitate education sector in Osun... TESCOM Chairman

The three day education summit recently organized by Governor Ademola Adeleke's administration is aimed at resuscitating the education sector in Osun state from its current poor state

Chairman of the state teaching service commission, TESCOM, Mr Temitope Mustapha stated this on IMOLE AYO, a sensitization programme promoting the activities of Governor Ademola Adeleke's administration on OSBC Radio and Television channels

The weekly simulcast Yoruba programme is put in place by the office of the spokesperson to the governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed to highlight the achievements of Governor Ademola Adeleke's administration in Osun state

Mr Mustapha said the Governor while receiving the report of the education summit from the organizing committee promised to study the report and implement the recommendations therein to revamp the sector

He added that Governor Ademola Adeleke has mapped out strategies to provide incentives for teachers working at the grassroots to make the villages comfortable for them to live and reduce their quest for transfer to urban areas

On the issue of teachers recruitment, he said stakeholders are already brainstorming to work out modalities to ascertain the number of subject teachers needed to be employed and posted to schools where their services are required across the state

The TESCOM chairman urged parents and guardians to support the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke by paying necessary dues on the education of their children and wards regularly, saying such money is being used for the maintenance of schools as government alone can not do it ####

Osun Pensioners: Governor Adeleke is Committed to Payment of Pensions, Entitlements

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO - 24/09/2023 - Osunstate.gov.ng

The government of Governor Ademola Adeleke has reacted to the rumor of accrued pensions not paid by his government as alleged by opposition in the state, upon which some unscrupulous elements are allegedly planning a protest march.

We want the public to note that the current government has been consistent in paying some of the accrued pensions, owed by previous governments, from inception of his administration

While we have ascertained and confirmed that the rumour of a planned protest is not true,we alert the public to the spreading of the fake news designed to offend and confuse the contributory pensioners who are strong supporters of Governor Adeleke.

We assert that the pensioners and other stakeholders are aware of sustained efforts of the current government to pay up the inherited pensions.

It may also interest stakeholders to note that the Governor has 48 hours ago directed the hosting of an emergency consultative meeting with contributory pensioners to table full data before them and agree on a path to further payments.

Details of the meeting are to be communicated to relevant stakeholders.

Ahead of the meeting, we take liberty to release part of the records with renewed commitment of the administration to accelerate the payment process.

The records according to the Local Government Staff Pension Bureau in the state, shows that the government of Ademola Adeleke has made payment to both the contributory pensioners and old pensioners in the state, with effect from 28th November, 2022 till date.

The breakdown is as follows:

MONTHLY PENSION (Old Pension Scheme) - Three billion naira (N3 billion).

PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS - Two billion, nine hundred and sixteen million, two hundred and twenty-four thousand, three hundred and forty-one naira and thirty kobo (N2,916,224,341: 30).

LOCAL GOVERNMENT STAFF PENSIONERS - One billion, Sixty-two million, Four Hundred and Sixty-nine thousand, Seven hundred and Forty-three naira, Eighty-six Kobo (N1,062,469,743 : 86).

Regarding Death Benefits: PRIMARY SCHOOL TEACHERS - Three hundred and Twenty-four million, Two hundred and Eighty-nine thousand, Five hundred and Ninety naira, Sixty-two Kobo (N324,289,590: 62).

LOCAL GOVERNMENT STAFF PENSIONERS - Nine-six million, One hundred and Eighty-one thousand, Thirty-two naira, Ninety-two Kobo (N96,181,032: 92).

MONTHLY PENSION (Contributory Pension) Remittances: PRIMARY SCHOOL - One billion, Eighty-three million,One hundred and Ninety-seven thousand,two hundred and Sixty-five naira, Thirty-six Kobo (N1,083,197,265:36).

LOCAL GOVERNMENT STAFF PENSIONERS - Six hundred and One million, Seven hundred and Seventy-four thousand, Thirty-two naira, Thirty-two kobo (N601,774,032:32).

PRESENTATION OF BOND CERTIFICATES: PRIMARY SCHOOL - One billion, Nine hundred and Eleven million, Three hundred and Seventy thousand, Two hundred and Eleven naira, Forty-four Kobo (N1,911,370,211:44).

LOCAL GOVT STAFF PENSIONERS - Seven hundred and Eight million, Forty-one thousand, Three hundred and Seventy-eight naira, Ninety-seven Kobo (N708,041,378:97).

The government appreciates the Pensioners and especially the contributory pensioners for their understanding, resilience and appreciation of the high level of commitment already shown by the government and urge them to distance themselves from evil operatives of the previous regime who were responsible for the pension debt in the first place.

As we remind the public and pensioners that Governor Adeleke has workers welfare as a number one on his agenda, we affirm that the Governor has the best interest of workers, pensioners and the public at heart and his government will therefore not under any circumstances deny retirees their due rights and privileges.

The government reiterates its commitment to the good people of Osun state, and asked that the lying opposition party be shunned, as they are mischief makers.

Signed:
Oluomo Kolapo Alimi Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment

We Shall Continue To Support Your Government - Osun Pensioners Promise Adeleke

We Shall Continue To Support Your Govt - Osun Pensioners Promise Adeleke

The Nigerian Union of Pensioners, Osun State chapter has reacted to a misinformation from some elements who claimed to be members of the union, that the state government under the leadership of Governor Ademola Adeleke has reneged in his promise regarding the payment of pensioners in the state.

The union said the information is untrue and can only emanate from those who are being used by the opposition members to discredit the current administration.

Speaking with our correspondent, the State Chairman of the union in Osun, Alhaji (Prince) G.O Salawu said the governor has been doing well in terms of welfare of the people, most especially, the pensioners in the state.

He stated that Governor Adeleke has been very friendly to pensioners. "Out of all the governors we have in Osun, Governor Adeleke has been very friendly to pensioners in the state. The half salary that he knows nothing about, today he has been paying the money gradually.

"I want to say it unequivocally that on behalf of our members, the Nigerian Union of Pensioners, Osun State chapter, we are solidly behind Governor Ademola Adeleke. He is trying and he can still do better. We should continue to pray for his government."

In his own remarks, the State secretary of NUP, Elder Lawrence Dele Aina, said the union is not aware of any protest from any member and that whoever that is planning such should desist because the governor has been doing well for the pensioners in the state "unless we want to be an ingrate."

Elder Aina posited that the government is trying and we cannot deny that fact. He said, "This man is trying. We have some people who have occupied the position for twelve years and they did nothing, rather they added to our suffering."

However, sources within the Pension Office who doesn't want their names quoted revealed that, two members of the said pressure group who claimed fighting for contributory pensioners, do come to the Bureau to demand for documents of the beneficiaries, which they are doing for their own personal gains.

"All they are doing is business. They usually come here to demand for beneficiaries' names. All they do is to get those names, convince the beneficiaries to move from PFA to annuity and this attracts commission for them. This is what they do."

Kogi 2023: We Are United for PDP, Dino/Habibat Victory, Says Ex-Gov Idris, Wada

Press Statement

September 23, 2023

The two former governors elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Ibrahim Idris and Idris Wada, have reaffirmed their decision to work together in support of the governorship candidate of the party, Senator Dino Melaye, and his running-mate, Hajia Habibat Mohammed Deen.

The two former governors made this known when the Osun State Governor and National Campaign Council Chairman for Kogi Election, Senator Ademola Adeleke, as well as the Contact and Mobilization chairman of the national campaign, Professor Jerry Gana, led some select leaders of the party to the residence of former Governor Idris in Abuja.

Adeleke, who opened discussions at the meeting, told the two former governors that their footprints in Kogi State remain the memories of good governance that people of the State remember.

“I was in Kabba a few days ago, and people were saying that when you were in government, everything moved well for them.

“This could only have happened because PDP members are the real progressives and they are truly with the people, and they work for the people.

“As our leaders, you need to unite and come together to work for all our people and rescue them from their current situation,” Adeleke said.

“By the grace of God, irrespective of what had happened in time past, Imole (the light) has come to Kogi State,” Governor Adeleke assured.

Responding, former Governor Idris described the visit as a “honor” and thanked Governor Adeleke and Professor Gana “for leaving your state to come and support us in Kogi State.

He added that Dino/Habibat project is indeed our project and we are committed to pursuing it to a logical conclusion.

“I love what I am seeing, and with the support we are getting, we will win this election.

Also, former Governor Wada described the meeting as “the momentum that will lead us to victory.”

Senator Tunde Ogbeha described the session as “a welcoming moment. We indeed have a united front, and all our supporters will know that Kogi PDP is one.

“I believe that with the unity we have, we are fully poised to convincingly win our elections by the grace of the almighty." Senator Ogbeha assured.

Present at the meeting were the running-mate, Hajia Habibat Mohammed Deen, the secretary of the national campaign council, Senator Biodun Olujimi, former Kogi PDP chairman, Engr Sam Ohuotu; former Chief of Staff to the President, Prince Olusola Akanmode and former PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan.

Signed
*Sen Dino Melaye Media Team*

Governor Adeleke Felicitates with Finance Commissioner, Sola Ogungbile on His Birthday

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO- 22/09/2023- Osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke has felicitated with his Commissioner for Finance, Hon Sola Ogungbile on the occasion of his birthday, describing the former top banker as " a dedicated professional with deep love for public service.

"I join thousands of your admirers on this auspicious occasion of your birthday. Your celebration this year is unique as you sit atop our state's financial system with innovations and commitment. You are a strong pillar in the ongoing positive changes.

" You are a frontline and integral part of a system that is taking Osun state out of its mess and sacrificing to take the state to greater heights. You are a thoroughbred professional who is a strongly reliable and dedicated team member that is shouldering the heavy task of transforming Osun state.

"In your professional and public life , You are a man of integrity, a consistent team player and an innovative financial guru. We value you and your contributions now that you are the Commissioner for Finance of our dear state.

On this occasion, Sola , enjoy your day. I pray for expanded blessings for you and all your loved ones.

Happy birthday my brother

Signed
HE, Senator Ademola Adeleke, Executive Governor of Osun State

Adeleke: Development Will Be Restored In Kogi State By Dino Melaye

PRESS STATEMENT
Adeleke: Development Will Be Restored in Kogi State By Dino Melaye
ABUJA - 22/09/2023

Osun State Governor and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign Chairman for the November 11 governorship election in Kogi State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has assured the people of Kogi State that development will be restored in the state when Senator Dino Melaye is elected as governor.

Adeleke, who stated this when he met the elders and stakeholders of the Kogi West chapter of the PDP in Kabba, Kogi State, on Thursday, said Kogites had proud accomplishments when the party governed the state.

“Kogites know that when PDP was in office, their lives were better than now. Their business concerns were doing well, their salaries were paid in full and things generally moved smoothly.

“I’m Imole (light) and Dino is Imole too. Together, we are bringing light to Kogi State and I implore the people of Kogi State to unite and rescue the state.

“I have told Governor Yahaya Bello that Imole is coming to Kogi State. Our campaign will be issue based and we shall repeat the Osun feat in Kogi State by God’s grace.

He called on the people of Kogi State not to be deceived again by the machinations of the All Progressives Congress (APC), adding that, “if you go to APC, they will use you and dump you, no matter who you are. Let us join hands together and move both the PDP and Kogi State forward.

The Chairman, contact and mobilization committee of the national campaign, Professor Jerry Gana, told the people of Kogi West that they “have a golden opportunity to produce the next governor of Kogi State.

“You must pull all your political capital together to ensure that the opportunity of producing a governor this time does not elude you.

Also speaking, the secretary of the national campaign council, Senator Biodun Olujimi, said the people of Ekiti State share close affinities with Kogi West and it is their great desire to see PDP restored to power in the state.

Those present at the meeting were the Kogi State PDP deputy governorship candidate, Hajia Habibat Mohammed Deen; PDP National Vice Chairman (North Central) Mr Dakas Shan; Hon Tajudeen Yusuf; Hon Shaba Ibrahim; Dr Steven Olorunfemi; Hon Abiodun Ojo; the Director General of the Dino/Habiba Campaign Organisation, Prince Inuwa Iyodo; Prince Richard Akanmode; Kola Ologbondiyan; Hon. Mohammed Etudaiye; Hon Adakole Ijogi; Hon Soji Olumorin; Hon S.K Adekunle; Hon Adams Olorunmo, among others.

Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to Osun State Governor

Re: Absymal Nelglect of Judges Welfare in Osun

NEWS RELEASE

Threat of Legal Action, Interloping Actvism Usurping Union-Employer Rights

OSOGBO - 21/09/2023 - Osunstate.gov.ng

Our attention has been drawn to a threat of legal action by an Ibadan based legal practitioner, Mutalubi Ojo Adebayo, to sue the Osun state government for non-payment of allowances owed judicial officials by the previous administrations. The action does not only amount to meddlesomeness but a misrepresentation and misinterpretation of employment relationship between employees and the employer.

As much as we will not wish to attribute the threat of legal action to politicization of service matters, we must remind the public that the lawyer expressly affirmed that the allowances were owed by Aregbesola/Oyetola administration. We can add for him that the Adeleke administration inherited from the two previous governments of the All Progressive Congress a whopping salary, pension and employment related debt to the tune of 100 billion naira. This is outside another state debt of over 400 billion naira.

The Adeleke administration has however commenced payment of such salary and pension debt amidst cash crunch and equally competing demands for state expenditure. The public is aware that Governor Ademola Adeleke has deployed strategic ingenuity and uncommon resource management options to administer the state, delivering on various sectoral targets and also attending to the welfare of workers.

It is on record that the Adeleke administration ensures payment of salary as at when due and is also working to pay up inherited employment related debt from the previous administrations. Many would wonder why the Ibadan lawyer did not sue those who created the mess while they were in office. We are even shocked that the barrister in question chooses to attack a Governor who is doing all within his powers to correct fundamental errors of the last 12 years and set the state on the path of sustainable growth.

We must also put on record that Osun judicial workers have their unions and it is not in doubt that the union leadership is capable and able to advance the interest of their members. The Unions are also not unmindful of the inherited rot and ongoing efforts of the government to holistically address their issues.

We are constrained to therefore urge the lawyer to avoid distractive and interloping activism. As we believe he is not politically recruited, he should adopt other dignifying route rather than usurping labour dispute question which only the unions and their employers can undertake.

As we assume the lawyer has good intention, he can rework his threat into an appeal to the State Governor to continue his ongoing phased payment of outstanding liabilities inherited from the previous administrations. He may further commend the Governor for acting for all Osun people by devising strategies to complete abandon projects and gradual payments of outstanding liabilities.

Signed
Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor

Your Government is Delivering on Good Governance, Governor Adeleke Tells Traditional Rulers

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO - 20/09/2023 - Osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun state has reaffirmed his commitment to responsive leadership as he informed traditional rulers that the state government is delivering on good governance.

Speaking while receiving a delegation of the state's traditional rulers led by the Orangun of Oke Ila, Oba Dokun Abolarin in his office, the Governor assured the royal fathers that inclusive and responsive leadership are his priorities to expand the capacity and efficiency of the state to deliver.

Flanked by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon Teslim Igbalaye and the Chief of Staff, Hon Kazeem Akinleye, the Governor said he has "the deepest of respect for traditional institutions long before I assumed the governorship.

"The foundation of governance in Africa is the traditional institutions. That was why my first point of call as the governor was to assemble and brief you, our fathers, about the state of finance. I remember I gave you full details about the huge debt I inherited from the previous government.

"Since we took over, we have judiciously managed the state finance. We enforced due process and we placed emphasis on welfare of workers and people of Osun state;

"My administration is implementing a far reaching infrastructure upgrade of Osun state. Across the local governments, we ensure roads and bridges are being constructed and rehabilitated. We are refurbishing schools and health centers. We are making strong headway in the health and education sector. Our imole free medical surgeries are ongoing across the nine federal constituencies.

"We are reforming the sports sector. Our administration only recently rolled out series of initiatives to boost the sport sector. The reform of the mining sector is ongoing and our climate agenda was just nationally commended by the National Council on Climate Change.

"Our government has given Osun state the first ICT and Tech innovation policies. We are implementing a robust digital economy agenda. We are also working on a new electricity market policy and legislation. The ministry of power will soon unveil our electricity sector agenda since power has now been moved to concurrent legislative lists.

"I assure you of my deep commitment to service delivery. Our team is primed to continue to deliver good governance and dividends of democracy", Senator Adeleke posited.

Speaking earlier, Oba Abolarin commended the Governor for his massive delivery of democratic dividends to the people of Osun state alongside his pro-people style.

"On behalf of all royal fathers, I applaud Governor Adeleke for his successful governance so far. There is no doubt that you have positively impacted the state since you took over", the royal father remarked at the closed door meeting.

Signed
Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor

Hon. Adekunle Oladimeji Appreciate Gov Adeleke For Quick Intervention In Communal Clash

A HEARTFELT APPRECIATION FOR THE SWIFT INTERVENTION ON THE BREWING COMMUNAL CLASH

BY: HON. PRINCE ADEKUNLE OLADIMEJI

On behalf of the people of Irepodun and Orolu State Constituency, I stands to show deep sense of appreciation to Executive Governor of Osun State, His Excellency, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke for your tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to resolving the recent communal conflict that affected our beloved constituency.

Your leadership, along with the invaluable support of the Chief of Staff to the Governor Alh. Kazeem Akinleye, The Speker Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, Deputy Speaker, Hon. Akinyode Oyewusi, all the dedicated security operatives in Osun State, including the Commissioner of Police, DSS, and NSCDC, as well as all other personnel involved in this complex situation, has been nothing short of exceptional.

Your commitment to the safety and well-being of the people of Osun State, and particularly those of Irepodun and Orolu, has not gone unnoticed. Your ability to bring together various stakeholders, engage in dialogue, and find peaceful resolutions demonstrates your dedication to preserving harmony and unity within our community.

As the lawmaker representing Irepodun and Orolu State Constituency, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the tireless efforts made by your administration to address this issue comprehensively. Your leadership has not only averted a crisis but has also paved the way for reconciliation and sustainable peace.

Once again, I extend my deepest appreciation for your steadfast commitment to the welfare of our constituency. Your actions have reassured us that our government is resolute in protecting its citizens and maintaining the sanctity of peace within our communities.

We look forward to your continued support and guidance as we work together to ensure lasting peace, reconciliation, and progress in Irepodun and Orolu State Constituency.

Thank you once again for your unwavering dedication to the well-being of our community and the state of Osun.

Warm regards,
Hon. Prince Adekunle Oladimeji Deputy Majority Leader Osun 8th Assembly Irepodun/Orolu State Constituency Chairman House Committee on Media and Public Affairs.

Governor Adeleke Preaches Fear of Allah as Muslim Students Society Hails Him For His Support

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO 17/08/2023 Osun State.gov.ng

The Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has preached fear of Allah and advocated judicious use of available resources as a way of reshaping the past for the future in our society.

This admonition was delivered by the governor at a symposium organised by the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN B-ZONE) on Saturday, 16th September, 2023, in Osogbo.

Speaking, the governor, who was represented at the event by his Special Adviser on Legal Matters, Hon. Hashim Abioye, congratulated the leadership of the Muslim body on the successful hosting of the symposium themed: Reshaping the Past for the Future.

He noted that the programme was a platform for the entire citizenry, especially those in leadership positions to reflect on the past, use it as a yardstick to assess the present so as to reshape the future for the betterment of our society at large.

"I congratulate the leadership of the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN B-ZONE) for successfully hosting this symposium. I am particularly elated that this discussion did not leave out Christian leaders from Catholic, Anglican and other Christian denominations. Apart from fostering religious harmony, I am convinced that the lesson we have learnt from the papers presented by the guest lecturers and the discussants today would reshape our thoughts rightfully and enable us to observe the teachings of Allah on judicious use of available resources,” the governor said.

Quoting references from the Glorious Qur'an, the Governor noted that “Prudent use of resources has been the guiding principle of our administration since we came on board, particularly in the area of delivering dividends of democracy to all, irrespective of political, social and religious affiliations.

“Looking at our past, we are a people who pride in peaceful co-existence, and our administration will continue to harp on this cherished tradition in our quest to provide effective governance and equitable distribution of resources to all so as to develop key areas of the State's economy.”

Papers were presented at the event by Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau (former Governor of Kano State and former Minister of Education) and Professor Abdul Azeez Olaniyan from Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State. Also at the event was Oba AbdulAzeez Olatunbosun, The Akire of Ikire-Ile Kingdom, in the Ola-Oluwa Local Government area of the State, as well as notable Islamic clerics.

Earlier in his address, the Zonal Amir of the MSSN B-Zone, Barrister Qosim Odedeji, eulogised Governor Adeleke and his cabinet members for the unprecedented support the body received from the government towards the successful hosting of the symposium, acknowledging that "MSSN had received support from various administrations in the past in Osun State, but the support received from the present administration is the best so far."

He therefore prayed for the success of the administration of Governor Adeleke and asked Allah to reward him bountifully.

Signed :
Mallam Olawale Rasheed Spokesperson to Governor Adeleke.

Governor Adeleke Declares Curfew in Orolu & Irepodun LGs

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO - 17/09/2023 - Osunstate.gov.ng

Osun state Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has reacted to the communal clash between Ilobu and Ifon communities, imposing curfew on the affected communities to enforce law and order.

The notice of curfew conveyed by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Hon. Kolapo Alimi reads as follows:

This is to inform the public that the attention of the Osun state government has been drawn to the communal clash on land dispute between Ilobu and Ifon Communities.

Based on this, Governor Ademola Adeleke has directed that Curfew begins immediately in the two local governments: Orolu and Irepodun local governments.

The Curfew will start between the hours of 8pm every night, and 6am in the morning. Human and vehicular movement is hereby restricted during the curfew till further notice.

This is to forestall attempts of destruction of lives and properties during this period, because of the land dispute.

Anyone caught wandering or moving around in Irepodun and Orolu local governments during the curfew period will be arrested and prosecuted appropriately.

Governor Ademola Adeleke sued for peace between these two local governments, and asked that the ethos of Peace, Love and Unity which the state is known for, be imbibed.

Signed:
Oluomo Kolapo Alimi Commissioner for Information And Public Enlightenment

Averted Plane Crash: Aircraft Engines May Have Been Tampered with - Governor Adeleke's Aide

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO - 17/09/2023 - Osunstate.gov.ng

Spokesperson to the Osun State Governor , Mallam Olawale Rasheed has confirmed reported aircraft incident involving Governor Ademola Adeleke but clarified that there are strong indications that the two aircraft engines were tampered before boarding.

Reacting to news reports on the incident, the Spokesperson said the highly technically equipped aircraft was well maintained with the best technical crew and was never an unused platform where birds could build nests.

Contrary to the claim by the hanger owner that birds' nests caused the incident, birds' nests are made with straws not bidding wires as in this case.

According to him, the near fatal incident was averted shortly after boarding and less than two minutes after commencement of taxing on the tarmac.

An early warning noise from the engines immediately prompted the pilots to direct evacuation of the passengers. Everything happened within five minutes.

Early reports from internal investigation indicated sabotage. But the authorities, locally and internationally, are still investigating the incident.

We however want to assure the public that Governor Adeleke and his aides are safe and there was no injury or any outward explosion on the plane.

The Governor expressed his deep appreciation to well wishers and supporters who have been calling since the report of the incident. Mr Governor is hale and hearty.

Signed
Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to Governor Adeleke

Gov Adeleke's Imole free medical and surgical outreach is second to none... UNIOSUN CMD

NEWS RELEASE

The free medical and surgical outreach, provided by Senator Ademola Adeleke's administration, is organized for the benefit of the people of Osun State, irrespective of their tribe or social status.

The Chief Medical Director, UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital, Professor Peter Olaitan, stated this while speaking on IMOLE AYO, a Yoruba sensitization programme, promoting the activities of Governor Ademola Adeleke's administration on OSBC Radio and Television channels

The weekly simulcast programme is put in place by the office of the spokesperson to governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed to showcase the achievements of Governor Ademola Adeleke's administration in Osun state.

According to Professor Olaitan, no fewer than twenty two thousand patients suffering from one ailment or the other benefitted from the first round of Imole free medical/surgical outreach provided by the governor Adeleke's administration early this year Describing the scheme as second to non, Prof Olaitan commended governor Ademola Adeleke for providing a life saving initiative for residents of Osun State, adding that people from neighbouring states have also benefitted from the exercise.

He added that the second round of the medical intervention exercise which is ongoing, has taken the team to five major cities selected for the programme, while the exercise will be rounded off between Wednesday and Thursday at the State Specialist Hospital, Asubiaro, Osogbo .

Professor Olaitan, who is the chairman of the committee in charge of the free medical and surgical outreach, enjoined the people who need medical attention to go to the state specialist hospital, Asubiaro Osogbo on Monday and Tuesday for registration while medical personnel will attend to them on Wednesday and Thursday.

It would be recalled that the medical and surgical outreach, provided by the present administration in Osun State, for the people across the nine federal constituencies of the State, was flagged off in February, in Iwo, by Governor Ademola Adeleke who also flagged off the second round of the exercise last month in Ilesa.

Governor Adeleke Chairs Maiden State EXCO Meeting, Issues Performance Monitoring Template for Cabinet Members

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO - 15/09/2023 - Osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke on Friday at the maiden meeting of the state's Executive Council meeting issued an extensive performance monitoring template for his cabinet members comprising twenty five commissioners and ten special advisers of cabinet rank.

At the well attended meeting held at the Council Chambers of the Governor's Office, the Governor attributed the holding of the meeting by mid-September to the need for cabinet members to fully understand their ministries and agencies, expressing optimism that "we have been fully equipped to productively contribute at Council deliberations.

The Governor who noted with appreciation the eagerness and commitment of members to the success of the administration reminded the cabinet members of "a heavy burden on us", adding "we cannot afford to be distracted"

The Number One Osun Citizen then proceeded to lay the ground rules for the cabinet members as the administration takes off in full steam:

"You are expected to take note of certain issues for us to achieve collective success. Projects and programmes you inherited should not be abandoned. I noticed a certain lay back attitude in the continuity of some of our 100 days projects and policies.

"You did not take over ministries and agencies without ongoing programmes. I did not expect any of you to start window shopping instead of pushing ahead with existing programmes. As much as I welcome innovations, we should not behave like the APC government that takes joy in abandoning inherited items.

"Secondly, I task us to uphold public finance regulations and due process. We must avoid activities that portray us as hawks seeking to serve self instead of the public. We are being watched.

"Let us be reminded that nothing is hidden within the public service process. I did not appoint any of you to breach the law. I will not protect anybody caught violating public service regulations", Senator Adeleke admonished.

He directed that the foundation of policy innovations within the administration is the five-point agenda, instructing that cabinet members must build our governance agenda around the areas listed.

"In our submissions and memorandum to this council, let us adopt best practices. Due diligence in project conception and design is compulsory. Bogus project estimation can land sponsors in trouble. We must be above board as a rule of operation.

"We are here to serve the people. We must act and conduct ourselves in service of the people. That is how to justify the confidence Osun people overwhelmingly reposed in us", the Governor rounded up his inaugural address.

Other highlights of the meeting include a commitment by Council members to remain steadfast in service of the state.

The cabinet also unanimously agreed that every Wednesday of the week should be slated for the weekly Executive meeting of Osun State.

Signed
Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment

Osun APC And The Gabby -Garrulous Verbose Of A Sooko

In the last couple of weeks, the Osun State chapter of the All Progressive Congress, intermittently angering in their incredulous gaze at the weight of catastrophe, which ruptured on them through the July 16 2022 verdict of the indomitable people of Osun State, has engaged in collapsable epistles exposing the party's political sodomy.

Recently, the band-aid chairman of the beheaded APC, one Sooko Taju Lawal, has attempted to clap with one hand, laboring endlessly to denigrate and insult the people's Governor, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen, albeit with overdose of unintelligibility.

Yes, it is pardonable to be arrogant but being arrogant in crass error of criminality is unintelligent and destructible for a fizzling opposition like the Osun APC.

Or how do one decipher that the caricature of a chairman condemning Governor Adeleke for completing projects heartlessly abandoned by the deposed Oyetola administration with the former getting accolades for it from different quarters including the former president and elder statesman, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. Just how?

The chairman was recently quoted soliloquizing that, the Osogbo-Ikirun road for instance, was at 75% completion and so, Governor Adeleke should not be commended for completing it? Chai, what a Sooko!

One tends to ask Mr Sooko, while assuming without conceding that, the road project, which has gulped several billions of naira of Osun State resources, mostly borrowed funds in the notorious days of APC in the state, was at 75% completion, why did Oyetola fail to complete it in the whole of his 4years as governor? Why did he refuse to be responsible in office by completing such a strategically important project he jointly sat on the table to use Osun people as collateral to secure loans for it's execution?

I hold vehemently that such 'say something anyhow' because of hazardous idleness, through another concurrent idle hand, was dumb, insane and utterly inept. In fact, such criticism by the acrimonious Aide-de-camp of the fastly receding APC refugee assemblage, lacks any cultural aroma of a political ball boy erroneously donning garment of a Sooko.

Sooko Taju in a sane clime, should have impressed it on Mr Oyetola, under whom he was arranged as a makeshift chairman, to prevent another governor from expending financial calories of the state on such project by completing it and leaving no percentage of completion, for anyone to take accolades. A true Sooko should not be a delusionist in my view.

It also belittles Sooko Taju when he descended into the arena of political toads, jumping around aimlessly and into the coal of fire that Governor Adeleke's initiative of providing boreholes for the use of the people was insufficient. Again, Osun people should ask Sooko Taju, what happened to the 332 boreholes that supposed to have been provided for the good people of Osun State by the government of his leader, Gboyega Oyetola, as part of 20 million dollar primary health revitalization grant provided by world bank during the infamous tenure of the better forgotten former governor?

Had those number of boreholes been executed as contained in the papers prior to accessing the 20 million dollar world bank grant then, Governor Ademola Adeleke would not have had to bother himself engaging in sinking another round of boreholes for the people. Financial commitments on such project again, should have been devoted for other essential areas of needs of the people. Or maybe Sooko Taju is bereft of this in the hollow enclave of his thoughtless gabby-garrulous verbose.

Mr Taju, I make bold to demand, should recuse himself as bearer of a traditional title of Sooko if he wouldn't venipuncture the shamelessness contaminating his veins, unless he only mimicks the title as mere political chant.

The unending pains of APC's coordinator in the state is however not abating anytime soon, as Governor Ademola Adeleke is already inches away from completing another abandoned project, this time Osogbo East bypass road. The road will be completed, commissioned and opened for road users very soon in order to serve it primary purpose for the people. So Mr Sooko Taju should get more bowls for more tears as the custodian of the mandate of the people of Osun State won't back down, not now, not in foreseeable future.

Not only that, Governor Ademola Adeleke just saw through a noiseless summit to revitalize education sector in the state. This will ensure that most of the basic and secondary schools in the state especially, are made habitable for both tutors and the tutored. The schools will be transformed from mere cosmetic buildings for optical deceit to schools with standard education.

Sooko Taju can derive pleasure in his master's prodigality. He can dance naked in the market over proliferation of the state's resources owing to orchestrated bickerings in his troubled party. He should however check with the good people of Osun State or his economic sensory organs if any, before he burns himself further because the PDP government of Governor Ademola Adeleke will not stop bringing home for the people, the deliverables they deserved as human shield used for humongous liquid liabilities inflicted on the state by his warlord, who took wicked greed and ego laden bickerings high and above his duties he ought to discharge while in office.

*Oladele Bamiji is the Senior Special Assistant To Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State*

Osun To Embark On Transformative Journey To Improve Sports Industry

By Ismail Abdulganiyu 15-09-2023

Osun State Deputy Governor, Prince Kola Adewusi has announced the readiness of the state Government to revamp the sport industry in the state. The Deputy Governor who doubles as Commissioner For Sports made this known during a press briefing at Exco Lounge, Governor's office, Osun State.

He lamented on the deteriorating state of Government sport facilities and poor remuneration of coaches, athletes and sport administrators in the state. Prince Adewusi used the avenue to reel out Government's plans to revive the poor state of Sports Industry in the state.

In his words; "we are particularly concerned about the state of the Osogbo Township Stadium which supposed to be the flagship of all sports facilities at the state capital. Improvement on our sports facilities will assist our youths to engage in different kinds of sports by bringing them out of the streets".

Emphasizing the commitment of Adeleke's administration on improving sports, the Deputy Governor said that in the past few months key investments have been made in various facets of the sports industry. These include the successful sponsoring of the state Contingent to the last National Sports Festival in Asaba and the recent promotion of Osun United Football club to the National League.

Speaking further, Prince Adewusi pointed out key revival agenda and innovations the Government is set to bring onboard. These include:

- Comprehensive upgrade of sports facilities across the state
- Restructuring of the Osun State Games Village
- Launch of the Osun State Sports Trust Fund
- Establishment of the Osun State Sports Commission
- Adoption of a sports-for-all approach - Reintroduction of the Governor's Cup and the intercollegiate games and the principal cup
- Recruitment and training of the best administrators, coaches, and athletes - Financial rewards for athletes based on performance
- Meritocracy in appointments covering sports administrators and other related positions

The Government's plan is a good step to improve sport industry and position the state to a national standard unlike the moribund state the Government met it. No doubt, Adeleke's administration is ready for promotion of sports that will attract meaningful development in the state.

Ismail Abdulganiyu is the Coordinator Osun Light Media Team.