Gov Adeleke Markets Osun Cocoa Potentials, Meets Chocolate Producers and Stakeholders

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO– 28/02/2024– Osunstate.gov.ng

The Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke has urged investors to tap into the potentials of cocoa in the state, saying that his administration is already taking steps in addressing past challenges that stunted growth of the sector.

Addressing a global audience of investors in the cocoa sector in London, the United Kingdom, on Wednesday, Governor Adeleke noted that Osun brand of cocoa is highly sought after by end users providing investors with a guarantee of returns for their investments.

Governor Adeleke, who pointed out that Osun is a major cocoa belt in Nigeria to underscore opportunities, outlined ongoing efforts by his government to expand the production base and unleash the benefits of the sector for both the state and investors.

"Our cocoa is the traditional species which has the best taste in chocolate and other related products. Our brand is therefore much sought after by end users," Governor Adeleke remarked.

"Our cocoa sector faces several challenges, several of which include the need to expand the production base, ensure entrance of young farmers, ease access to finance, deepen the value chain among others.

"It was in pursuance of the above that I launched the Osun Cocoa Revival Agenda in January this year.

The agenda focuses on assembling stakeholders to design an updated revival implementation plan; get the cocoa industry company in the state running again; put life back into the cocoa farming sub-sector through demonstration of political will; get more investors into the value chain through ease of doing business.

Others include setting up a domestic export terminal in Osun state to ease export process and access to international market; partnering with the Nigerian Railway Corporation for easy of transport; upgrading local infrastructures for farming community; setting up a modified commodity boards to strengthen stakeholders’ finance; develop partnership with financial institutions to support the cocoa farming community;

The Governor also listed the development of relationship with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) for agric tech and innovations; and establishment of strong partnership with the Cocoa Research Institute for partnership and collaboration engagement.

The Governor said he has directed the state Ministry of Agriculture to establish high yielding cocoa nurseries across the local governments ; prepares an action plan for the rehabilitation of old cocoa plantations in term of facilities and re-plantation; open up new cocoa estates with young farmers; introduce deliberate programme to protect cocoa farms from destructive activities of miners and mining activities.

Describing his cocoa plan as very ambitious, Governor Adeleke said his administration plans to resuscitate the State owned cocoa processing industry at Ede for value chain addition; link the cocoa revival plan with climate agenda, establish cottage cocoa factories across the state Under an industry cluster agenda among others.

The Governor called on "our business friends in the United Kingdom and Europe as well as North America to partner with us for mutual interest in the cocoa sector. We are widely open to investors who are interested in the value chain of the cocoa sector as well as shareholding in the existing cocoa ventures.

"Your coming to Osun is assured to be very rewarding for many reasons. Our government has enhanced the ease of doing business Osjn through an end to multiple taxation and facilitation of access to land and simplification of the approval system.

"We are open to supporting government to government, government to business, business to business arrangements. We are a willing partner and my team is here to negotiate deals and partnership", the Governor assured the cocoa conference.

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

Disquiet in the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy as Oyetola's son extortion unsettles workers

There is a growing sign of a showdown in the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy as workers in the agencies under it are uncomfortable with the excesses of the son of the Minister, Gboyega Oyetola, this newspaper has learnt.

According to sources in the Ministry, Femi Oyetola, the Minister's son, carries himself in a way that is unbecoming in the agencies that is under the supervision of his father, using his relationship with the Minister to coerce top officials in the Ministry to fund his extravagant lifestyle.

It was gathered that Femi imposed himself on officials of the ministry even when he has no role whatsoever, dropping the name of his father to extort money from the officials.

"On one occasion, Femi (Oyetola) stormed the office of a Director in the Ministry and demanded for money to fund his weekend expenses. When the official seek to know the basis of such request, Femi flared up at him, warning of consequences if his demand is not met," one of the sources who chooses not to be named narrated.

She said Femi furiously asked the Director to find out about him in Osun state where his father had served as Governor, noting that the rattled official was left with no option but to surrender to the demand of the young Oyetola.

It was gathered that Femi was imposing on officials in Osun while his father was Governor, pressuring them to surrender to his extortion to fund his extravagant lifestyle.

Another source said Femi extortion is not limited to the Ministry but agencies that are under it, saying the son of the Minister moved from one agency to the other to draw out money from the officials.

The source said Femi is a regular visitor at the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), which is manned by a former Commissioner in Osun state under his father, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, who seems to indulge the reckless demands of the Minister's son.

At a point, the source noted, Mr. Oyebamiji impressed on officials under him to attend to any request that comes from Femi, stirring concerns among workers in the agency on the impunity that is taking root in the Ministry.

"This is not the first time we will be having a Minister with a son but what we have seen with Femi (Oyetola) is quite disturbing," the source who works in NIWA but do not want name in print for fear of reprimand said, adding that "He (Femi) takes advantage of his father's position to extort officials and if you don't want to go with him, he resort to threat. It is really troubling."

The shabby practice of Femi, according to a presidential source, has not go well with the Presidency, especially members of the President's family, who considers the Minister's son conduct as a blight to the Tinubu administration and want his father to reign in him before it is too late.

"Femi (Oyetola) extortion scheme has reached the attention of the Presidency and I can tell you, they are not happy about it. Particularly the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu and the President's first daughter, Iyaloja Shade Tinubu, viewed his conduct as reckless and capable to tarnishing the image of the Tinubu administration if not curbed," the source noted.

"Even Seyi Tinubu is not happy about reports on Femi, wondering why he chooses that root and not take a clue from what he's doing to positively project the administration. And what he even uses the money for is not people should even know."

APC Should not Set Osun Ablaze - Osun PDP

Press Release

● Keep our name off your self-inflicted crisis

Osogbo - osunpdp.com

The Osun State Chapter of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a strong warning to a faction in the opposition party, APC, under the chairmanship of Tajudeen Lawal, concerning its rudderless statements.

Reacting to Lawal's statement about the division within the APC, the State Chairman of the ruling party, Hon. Sunday Bisi slammed APC factional chairman and his factional leader to keep the name of PDP out of their internal crisis. Hon Sunday Bisi described the statement as a deep picture of an irresponsible leadership structure in Osun APC.

In the statement released by the party media office, he stated that "Lawal and his factional group should look in the mirror to identify APC problem and stop displaying acts of filthy cowardice by consistently looking for who to blame for their scandalous defeats in 2022 and 2023 elections.

"A mad man would remain mad until he's conscious of his malady. Lawal's APC should first acknowledge that the party performed too poorly while in power, which is the basis for people's revolt against them."

"Lawal should be aware that Democracy is all about the people, and it was the Osun People that rejected them at the polls because of their arrogance in maladministration which they have continued to display even in their new status as opposition party."

"The ruling party is not the cause of the APC internal crisis as the PDP government is too busy with satisfying people's yearnings. So it is thoughtless and dumb to point accusing fingers at the PDP for its inevitable fractionalization."

"He should also be informed that Osun people, including members of APC, are at liberty to decide which party or association they want to belong to."

"Therefore, if Lawal and his co-travellers lack administrative acumen to solve their problems, the PDP administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke will not tolerate any form of subtle threats against the people including members of the PDP. So Lawal and his faction should bury whatever thoughts of setting the state blaze," he concluded.

Signed Hon. Sunday Bisi State Chairman, Osun PDP 26/02/2024

OP-ED: ADELEKE’S WEEK OF SUPERSONIC PRO-PEOPLE DELIVERY

BY Olawale Abdulahi Oladele

Osun state Governor, Ademola Adeleke is daily showing the nation how to truly serve the people. His supersonic delivery in service of his people has continued to thrill and excites people from far and near. What is unique is the width and depth of policy innovations which have the people at the center of implementation and benefits.

Few days ago at the lounge of the Transcorp hotel here in Abuja, three friends from North and East hijacked me to talk about my State Governor from the famous Adeleke family. I was shocked with their tracking of happenings in the state, especially their in depth analysis of the state. For almost two hours, they picked one policy or the other with questions on how the Governor is governing with such ease and dedication.

I left with a determination to actually put up this piece. I talked to my team on issues of innovative governance and we agreed Osun is emerging as the best laboratory for good governance in Nigeria.

When people tagged Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun state, the dancing senator as the performing, working governor, it is like a mere hype. But a close scrutiny of the last one week revealed a systematic, structured policy focus which variously address the needs of the people and tackle headlong basic aspirations of the populace.

The last time I read a piece by the Governor’s spokesperson focussing on innovation for people’s aspirations under his principal, I almost took it for a public relation stunt. A follow up to pronouncements and actions of the state government confirmed the Governor’s genuine urge to fulfill electoral promises and attend to needs of the moment. I can confirm a studied determination by the administration to deliver. The facts and figures are out there and cannot be disputed.

In the last one week, it has had a stream of policy actions which at times overwhelm even the beneficiary citizenry. The endless reeling out of policies accompanied by implementation actions raises many questions about how the machine of the administration works. At one point, you see the Governor singing “Emi nikan loye”, at the other end, you read of two or even more key pronunciations. Before you digest one state action, you are bombarded with implementation actions.

Is the administration operated by AI? Or how do you explain in one week, three or even more policy outputs with the Governor directly on the driver chair? Are they not sleeping within Adeleke’s caucus?

Early in the week, the grant for the poor was rolled out with almost twenty thousand beneficiaries and another 60,000 being enrolled for ATM in furtherance of a widening for beneficiaries. Then, a technical implementation committee was put in place. Then came the food security committee focusing on key aspects like food security, food transportation, food access and expansion of food production.

Before that settled down, free medical surgeries for the state's 29,000 pensioners was launched with almost 100 surgeries done in the presence of the Governor at the Asubiaro hospital. The pensioners had earlier been fully enrolled in the state health insurance scheme.

Then, a surprising three zone launching of cooperative loan programmes totalling almost four billion naira for the phases was actualised. The Governor within a day supported three elders namely Dr Olu Alabi, Chief Faseru and Baba Alago to flag off the multi million naira loan scheme at Osogbo, Ilesa and Iwo. The three events witnessed an unprecedented turn out of people and mass enthusiasm among the citizenry.

Then upscaling of actions on the upgrading of the state mining licenses saw a stakeholders forum where key decisions were taken to upgrade the state mining licenses. The Governor had earlier operationalised the state shareholding within the Segilola Mining firm, deepening the state revenue base.

Four critical policy actions within a week- this is an unprecedented show of leadership seriousness and deliberate focus on the people as the reason why the government exists at all. I am impressed as a citizen that a Governor widely underrated can deliver such outputs with such ease.

Beyond above, reports confirm that the Governor’s multi billion naira infrastructure programme is ongoing. Several flyovers bridges, road dualisation, schools and health centers upgrade are ongoing despite the increasing inflation rates. Our team was at Osogbo and other work sites. The people handling Adeleke infra projects are working so efficiently.

And to imagine the Governor achieving all this without taking a single kobo as loan is tremendously applaudable. This is pace setting at its best.

No wonder, everywhere the Governor goes, the mass show of affection is overwhelming. At the Church service for the burial of late Rotimi Akeredolu, Osun Governor stole the show. On his way to Lagos, people practically, spontaneously blocked the road at Ibadan, shouting his name-Imole.

Our counsel to the Governor and his team is to sustain these marvelous records. If top rating can be sustained weekly and monthly, overall performance rating will be quite unbeatable. The Governor must uphold the tempo with his team of super performers. He must however not lose guard.

His records so far are unrivaled. But he must keep up the good work. Innovations must continue. Thinking out of the box must be the goal. Reward of hard work is hard work. Well done, Mr Adeleke.

● Olawale Oladele, the CEO of Drekz Analytics, writes from Abuja.

ADELEKE HAS NOT TAKEN ANY LOAN– OSUN GOVT.

NEWS RELEASE

••• APC SUFFERING FROM FINANCIAL, ACCOUNTING ILLITERACY

OSOGBO– 21/02/2024– Osunstate.gov.ng

The Osun State Government has denied a fake report that it obtained a Ten Billion Naira loan facility in 2023, asserting that Governor Ademola Adeleke did not take any loan and is not planning to take any such loan now or in the near future.

Describing the report as a demonstration of either ignorance or mischief , the Commissioner for Information, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi said all current indebtedness of the state were contracted by previous governments of the All Progressive Congress.

According to the Commissioner, since inception in November 2022, the current government has been servicing inherited debt and ensuring project implementation where the loan is tied to any project like the Ilesa Water Project.

Hon Alimi posited that as a responsible government with a focus on legacy attainments, Governor Adeleke adopted a no-loan policy which he has maintained since assuming office.

We recognize the deficiency of the person behind the latest hoax to misrepresent the Adeleke administration, but the mistake he and his backer made is failing to intelligently scrutinize the erroneous claim before going public.

What the opposition mischievously calculated as loans are World Bank and other multilateral institutions projects like NCares, Ramp and Ilesa Water Project. Is the opposition asking Osun state to opt out of many beneficial multilateral projects which are inherited from previous governments?

We affirm that the State government will continue to support the people of the State in alleviating poverty through the Nigeria Covid-19 Action Recovery and Economic Stimulus (NCARES) with reimbursement from the World Bank through the Federal Government. This forms part of what the mischievous attackers are parading as loans taken by the State government.

We invite the public, particularly the Osun people to recall that the Rauf Aregbesola administration secured a facility from the Islamic Development Bank for the execution of the Ilesa Water Work project at the twilight of that government.

The facility which totalled $65 million, was structured in such a way that it is provided upon need for any aspect of the project.

Between 2018 and 2022, the Gboyega Oyetola administration received several billions of Naira from that fund. What the Osun APC minion misread for a fresh loan under Governor Adeleke, was the continuation of the flow of the fund for the Ilesa Water project and other multilateral projects like the NCARES, Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAMP), State Action Business Enabling Reforms(SABER) among others.

The public will recall that the current administration on inheriting the Ilesa Water project for which the loan was taken undertook a major cleaning up , stopping major corruption and setting the project on a sustainable path of completion and value for money.

As much as we recognize the failed bid of the opposition in Osun amidst its frantic search for fault finding no matter how ridiculous, we however expected a bit of informed postulation as against the illiterate understanding of state finance the Osun APC has so far demonstrated.

We assure the public of this administration's financial discipline. As such, this government will not repeat the horror of the reckless borrowing that crippled the state and inflicted untold pains on the people in the past.

The current government has not taken any fresh loan and has no plan to do so, but the administration is making use of the available resources, assets and liability, to the benefit of the state and its people.

Therefore, the public should discountenance the false alarm of the remnant of the deeply factionalized Osun APC. The PDP government is not financially illiterate and it is busy with clearing the financial mess of the previous APC government.

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

We are Working Hard to Ease the Suffering of our People- Governor Adeleke

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO: 21/02/2024- Osunstate.gov.ng

The Osun state government is working hard and round the clock to ease the economic pains and suffering of our people, Governor Ademola Adeleke has disclosed.

Speaking at the inauguration of the State Food Security Committee in Osogbo on Wednesday evening, Governor Adeleke said his administration is addressing current economic crisis through multi faceted angles, citing several pro- people programmes

“As a government in love with the people, we are doing a lot to cushion the effect of the hard time on our people. We have introduced so many policy options to ease the burden of the populace. Our administration has deployed the full machinery of government to attend to the immediate needs of the citizenry.

“We are, however , conscious of the deepening economic conflict. Mr President briefed state Governors on the state of the nation. Our government is already acting in many areas.

“We want to step up further by engaging in the newest area of food security. This committee is a response to the challenges of securing access to food and securing the food production and distribution process alongside other issues of palliatives for the people. We have identified a problem which we believe this committee can proffer immediate solutions” , the Governor affirmed.

He charged the committee to suggest measures to strengthen farm security for food production;expand farming activities through state incentives;organise Back to Farm Youth Conference;track foodstuff marketing and pricing;review and offer new ideas on the operations of ongoing palliatives measures;and recommend further immediate actions to reduce economic hardship

The Governor particularly tasked the committee to work with speed and produce an interim report in the next few days, urging the Chairman and other committee members to act with a sense of urgency.

“We need to address issues of the moment with the required focus.This is an important assignment. Your report will receive the full attention of my team”, the Governor stated.

Responding, the Committee Chairman, Hon. Tola Faseru who is also the Commissioner for Agriculture assured the Governor of the resolve of the committee members to deliver on the terms of references.

“ We will work extra hard to deliver on the task at hand. We understand the seriousness of the assignment. We thank Mr Governor for the opportunity”, the Chairman promised.

Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor

Governor Adeleke Advocates Strong PPP for NYSC

NEWS RELEASE

● NYSC DG Commends Osun Government

OSOGBO- 20/02/2024- Osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke has called for an immediate reform of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to effect an institutionalized Public- Private Partnership in the management of the service.

Welcoming the Director General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Yushau Dogara Ahmed in his office, Governor Adeleke said the present structure and model of the NYSC is unsustainable considering the prevailing fiscal state of the nation.

Calling the NYSC a gemstone for the Nigerian state, the Governor appealed for a reform of the service to expand private sector either through review of the enabling act or a federal instrument of reform

“ The present structure appears unsustainable considering the state of the national economy. We need to restructure the service to reduce the burden of financing on the public sector.

“We can deepen public private partnership. We can enhance state government participation. We can make it truly a federalised service to bring regional innovations. We must think out of the box”, the Governor advocated.

He said Osun state is particularly interested in the NYSC because we believe it is the steongest weapon to strengthen national unity and development, adding that “the NYSC is a platform that has helped to produce Nigerians who truly see themselves as patriots.

“It is our faith in the potency of the NYSC that motivated our administration to support the operations of the service in Osun state. We have backed the service through upgrades of her facilities and orientation camp.

“We are still committed to do more because the service provides invaluable service to the state and the federation”, the Governor promised.

Speaking earlier, the NYSC boss, Brigadier General Ahmed told the Governor that he was in Osun to review the operation of the service and to present a specific request for the attention of the state government.

Ahmed who served as a corp member in Osun state commended the state government for its logistic and financial support for the NYSC, urging the state government to support the service to build a state secretariat.

He also seeks the constitution of a state committee as well as state support for the expansion of orientation facilities.

The Director General was accompanied by top directors of the NYSC.

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

Osun Judicial Strike: Governor Adeleke Pays Staff Wardrobe Allowance as Parties Sign Resolution Agreement

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO - 19/02/3024- Osunstate.gov.ng

Parties to the Osun judicial strike have finally signed a resolution agreement just as the State Governor , Senator Ademola Adeleke effected the payment of wardrobe allowance, one of the key demands of the striking workers.

The resolution panel set up by the Governor described the agreement reached among the parties as in pursuance of the seven day ultimatum issued for the resolution of the strike by Governor Adeleke.

“We are happy to report to the public that in compliance with Mr Governor’s directive, the parties to the strike action have agreed to terms for the calling off of the strike”, the panel Chairman, Hon Teslim Igbalaye who is also the Secretary to the State Government declared.

According to him, the implementation of the agreement has begun in earnest as the Governor has ordered the immediate payment of the wardrobe allowance to the judicial workers.

“ The implementation has commenced. The areas that affected the executive arm are being effected. The one within the jurisdiction of the judicial arm is to be taken up by the State Judicial Service Commission.”, the Attorney General who is also a member of the Committee noted.

The agreement was signed by Mr F.I. Omisade, the registrar of state High Court; the National President of JUSUN, Comrade Marwan Adamu; and the Justice Commissioner, Hon Wole Jimi Bada.

The agreement reads as follows:

1. That the judicial services commission (JSC) meeting should be called to reinstate all the suspended staff as soon as possible;

2. That the necessary promotion and regularization of all qualified members of staff will be effected by the judicial service commission (JSC) without further delay;

3. All instituted court actions against the judicial service commission (JSC), JUSUN, its members (by signatory to this agreement, their privies or their sympathizers) and the hon. The Attorney General must be withdrawn forthwith;

4. That the government has agreed to pay the 2023 staffs regulation dress allowance/ robe allowance, as same was captured under the budget of the judiciary for 2023;

5. That the government will contact all relevant governmental agencies to look into all the past activities regarding the 2021 and 2022 staff;

6. That the government’s robust scheme of service for all categories of staff in the judiciary shall be fashioned out and implemented by the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) without any further delay;

7. There shall be no victimization of any form against any judicial officer, or any member of JUSUN for participating in the strike or as a result of the strike;

8. That this agreement is without prejudice to whatever step being taken by the national judicial council and in no way meant to overreach, overtake or stop such steps;

9. That this agreement is made in consideration of the need to enable Jusun call off its strike and resume duties accordingly in the interest of the state and general public;

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

Infra Projects: We Award Contract Based on Competency and Lowest Quotation.

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO- 18/02/2024 - Osunstate.gov.ng

The Osun State government has responded to fake news about a company handling the Osogbo dualisatiom and flyover project, declaring that “we award contracts to companies that are competent to deliver on specifications with lowest price quotations.

We have no apologies to award a contract to any company irrespective of its address as long as it complies with bidding specifications in terms of competency to deliver on the job and with lowest price.

We are fixated on engaging the most competent firm based on the bidding process even if the office address is the palace of Timi of Ede.

We are also conscious of the verifiable fact that the owners of such companies are not wholly or partly owned by a member of the Adeleke family.

We assure the people of Osun state that all contracts are awarded within the context of due process as stipulated by the extant procurement laws of the state.

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

Governor Adeleke to Inaugurate Committee on Food Security, Reels out Actions on National Economic Crisis

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO- 28/02/2024 - Osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke will this week inaugurate a state committee on food security in response to the increasing economic hardship facing residents of the state.

The committee to comprise representatives of civil society groups, youth organizations, farmers' associations, security agencies, religious groups, market associations and relevant commissioners is to be led by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Regional Integration, Dr Bashiru Salami.

The Committee is to work on farm security for food production, expand farming activities through state incentives, track foodstuff marketing and pricing, review operations of ongoing palliatives measures with a view for improvement if any and recommend immediate actions to further relieve the suffering of the populace.

Meanwhile, Governor Adeleke has reiterated his commitment to the welfare and wellbeing of the people under this national economic emergency.

The Governor who made the remarks while hosting the association of Osun indigenes resident in Bayelsa state said his administration has on daily basis been introducing one measure or the other to cushion the effect of the current crisis.

“ Our government is built mainly on the welfare of the people. We just launched the distribution of cash grants to almost 20,000 very poor segments of our population. Another 60,000 is being enrolled for ATM cards.

“ I have directed the Commissioner for Transport to ensure efficient working of the Imole Bus Service. Before new buses arrive, we must make judicious use of the refurbished buses to ply key routes where the services are needed.

“I have instructed key commissioners to review their service delivery to respond to the current needs and challenges of the people. The people must be regularly consulted and carried along on policy decisions and implementation.

“ Our administration is ramping up efforts to deepen the state economy. I have directed the Commissioner for Power to expedite action on the Osun State Electricity bill.

“ On the digital economy, I have also instructed the Commissioner for Science and Technology to present an implementation plan for the state ICT Policy and the State Tech Innovation policy. The bill for the domestication of the Nigerian Startup Act will soon be sent to the state assembly.

“ I have further directed the Commissioner for Agriculture to prepare a state plan and bill to ease access to farm equipment and inputs for farmers. Of course, the ministry is finalizing the implementation plan on the state Cocoal Revival agenda.

“Our government is pumping millions of naira into the grassroots through hundreds of community associations. The funds are used to build health centers, boreholes, school rehabilitations among others. This is boosting the local economy.

“ We are rebuilding our roads, bridges, schools, hospitals, water works to make the economy work, to expand economic activities and attract investors. The multi-billion naira infra plan is ongoing.

“ We are paying inherited half salary and pension debt long before Mr President so directed. We are paying wage awards to public servants and pensioners. Osun, almost a civil service state, has a lot to gain from public workers’ welfare because the informal sector depends mostly on the public sector.

“ We enrolled all pensioners in the state health insurance scheme. This new week we are launching free surgeries for pensioners statewide. By next month, another edition of the statewide Imole free medical outreach across the nine federal constituencies will commence.

“ To secure the state, we recently launched the State Security Trust Fund. We are working on a template for local state policing. A detailed implementation plan will soon be unveiled.

“Your government is doing a lot and I appeal for further support. This administration is a government of the people , for the people and by the people”, the Governor told the delegation.

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

We didn’t Receive any 1,500 Bags of Rice for CAN- Osun Government

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO- 17/02/2024- Osunstate.gov.ng

The government of Osun state has denied a fake report that the state has received One Thousand, Five Hundred Bags of rice from the Federal Government to distribute to the state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria(CAN).

Describing the report as false without any foundation in truth, the state government in a news release signed by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi said the Federal Government has not sent any rice palliatives to the state since the batch sent last year which was shared to the public through a committee of public associations and groups.

The Committee that shared the last rice package had the CAN Chairman and others as members and there is no way any consignment will reach the state without the committee being informed and engaged in the distribution, the Commissioner noted.

The statement therefore challenged operatives of the All Progressive Congress (APC) who spread the fake news to substantiate the allegation as well as cautioning broadcast organizations to desist from providing platforms for those marketing fake news.

We further call on members of the public to ignore the purveyors of such lies as this administration is committed to accountability and transparency in state governance.

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

Governor Adeleke Unveils Food Security Plan, Preaches Unity on Economic Crisis

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO- 16/02/2024- Osunstate.gov.ng

24 hours after Mr President’s meeting with state governors, Governor Ademola Adeleke today unveiled his government’s food security plan as he advocated national unity to resolve the current national economic crisis.

The Governor who attended President Bola Tinubu’s briefing with Governors on Thursday was at the Federal Ministry of Agriculture today during which he opened up on the extensive agenda of the state government on food security and expanded food production.

Hosted by the Federal Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, the Osun Governor accompanied by his Commissioner for Agriculture, Tola Faseru said “these are emergency eras in the economic life of this nation.

“We therefore have a duty to look and act beyond partisan politics and ensure collective efforts towards restoration of normalcy. A federation works best when component units join hands for common good”, the Governor told the minister.

“ It is in that line that I am here today. The first reason is to brief you on what the Osun state government is doing on the issue of food security and ongoing economic challenges facing the nation.

“Mr President yesterday briefed the state governors on the state of the nation. He outlined several steps state governors should take to stem the crisis of food security and inflation.

“ I am happy to report that the Osun government has been very proactive. First we are setting up a State Security Trust Fund to mobilise financing for security agencies. This is going to be private sector driven.

“Secondly, I have conveyed a food security meeting for Monday to brainstorm on how to further secure our farmlands. I will be meeting representatives of Hunters association and the Amotekun commanders alongside the civil defense and police services. The goal is to strengthen farm security.

“Our administration is also working on Small Farmers’ Equipment Lending service. This is to ease the access of small scale farmers to tractors and other needed machineries. We are meeting this week to finalise the plan ahead of the onset of the rainy planting season.

“To expand food production, we are also pushing to implement a City to Farm programme. This was designed to encourage young small scale farmers. This will expand production amd also engage our youth.

“This is alongside our plans for a regional farmers’ markets where offtakers can meet farmers for exchange and market relationship. We need your technical support to implement many of the listed areas.

“On a more general level, our administration recently unveiled a Cocoa Revival plan for the state. It involves several activities which focus on moving Osun from 3rd to 1st cocoa producer in Nigeria. We seek partnership with the federal Ministry of Agriculture on this.

“Our government is also interested in the livestock development programme. We have submitted our expression of interest. Kindly help to facilitate early approval.

“The state is also interested in the Agro-processing zones project being implemented under the African Development Bank. I hosted a delegation of the AFDB in Osun two weeks ago. Your ministry’s support on this is also solicited.

“Overall , I seek an MOU with the ministry to ensure standby collaboration with our government. I will be glad if we can have a small committee to oursure the making of the MOU”, Mr Governor told the Minister and top management of the federal ministry.

Responding , Senator Abubakar commended the multi-partisan approach of the Governor to state governance, pledging to work on all the areas touched by the Governor.

He the determination of President Bola Tinubu to address the national economic challenges, informing the delegation that the meeting with the Governor was part of a broad plan to ensure immediate resolution of the current dislocations within the economy.

While describing the state governments as key partners in national economic development, the minister expressed happiness on the proactive measures listed by the Governor and assured him of federal support and assistance.

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

Vanguard Personality of the Year: Adeleke, giant strides in infrastructure

By Dickson Omobola

When Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State took the oath of office on November 27, 2022, many thought he would fail to abide by his promise to chase out darkness from the State of the Living Spring.

But within 100 days, the light that he promised began to illuminate in many areas. Free from one-sidedness, Adeleke, in his first 100 days, cured the minds of doubters through payment of salaries and pensions arrears accumulated by the previous administration from January 2016.

During that period, he was also cheered by many for enrolling 3,332 Osun indigenes on Osun Health Insurance Scheme, OHIS, to ensure adequate healthcare access for the vulnerables for five years. As if that was not enough, he constructed the broken bridges at Bokusoro/Adeeke area in Iwo to forestall loss of life and resumed construction of the Osogbo/ Ikirun/Kwara boundary road which stretches over 20km.

Nevertheless, Adeleke, who is not one to rest on his oars, within six months, went further to build no less than 20 kilometres of roads. While new roads surfaced in Obokun Local Government Area, asphalt was laid for the reconstruction of Orita Oloki/Aago/Akala/ Ogberin roads in Ede South LGA, thus completed.

Also, in Ede South LGA, Anu Olu road received a new look. The road, which was impassable before Adeleke’s ascent to the executive’s seat, has brought joy to users.

In addition, Ademoroti Street/Holy Vessel in OkeOpo, Ilesa East LGA also received its share of new look. Similarly, Monday Junction road linking Station Railway road in Ikirun, the headquarters of Ifelodun LGA, was constructed.

Just as he oversaw the dualisation of Osogbo-Ikirun road with street light, he constructed Shasha failed culverts in University of Osun road, constructed Owoope/Oke Ola Ajegunle box culvert, Allahu Lateef saw mill failed culvert in Ede and Owoope/Oke Ola Ajegunle box culvert in Gbongan.

In like manner, he ensured that failed sections along Lameco-Station, Oke Fia-Dele Yes Sir, Oke Onitea and Owode roads were patched, even as he made sure Iresi township road and Atakumosa market road were given fresh appearance.

Coming after after he provided portable borehole water in each of the 333 wards in Osun State, Adeleke also launched Osun on Tech Revolution through a new tech innovation policy.

With all these and many more, Osun quickly became a positive reference point for the faultfinding analysts. Thanks to the governor’s clear-cut visions.

N100 billion infrastructure fund What is more? Given that his campaign promises were focused on responsive governance, honesty and integrity, caution and teamwork, Adeleke further disclosed his plans through the Osun State N100 billion infrastructure funds – an initiative that shows his dedication to enhancing the state’s socio-economic prospects.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony on October 27, 2023, Adeleke said the infrastructure plan includes the rehabilitation of 345 healthcare facilities, the provision of potable water and the reconstruction of 31 schools in local communities.

Hear him shed light on his plans: “The rehabilitation will include provision of potable water, new toilets, and bathrooms, beds, mattresses, bedsheets, renovation and painting of buildings, new curtains, and solar panels/inverters for 24 hours electricity. Our approach is to take medical services to the doorstep of our people wherever they may be.

“Phase two of portable water provision in 332 wards of Osun State which includes overhead tanks, dispensing taps, generators, or solar panels. Under phase one as you have seen, 332 water projects were completed. They are all functioning.

“Under the new plan, another set of underserved areas across the 332 political wards will be served with water projects.

“Phase two of rehabilitation of 31 schools in the 30 mother local governments of Osun and area council. This includes portable water, new roofs, new toilets, renovation and painting of buildings, and provision of desks and chairs. As you have seen in phase one of the school rehabilitation, our approach is to take a school and rehabilitate the buildings completely with desks and other learning facilities.

“As a follow up to the completed rehabilitation of selected schools, the government has commenced the process of recruiting new teachers to address teachers’ shortage in our schools.

“Rehabilitation of 45 roads of at least one kilometre in each of the 30 mother local governments, making a total of 45 kilometres. As you saw in the preview, we have earlier completed about 45 kilometres of roads across the LGAs. These new roads are fresh projects for phase two.”

On how these projects would be executed, Adeleke said through the use of local contents, materials and workers, stressing that his administration is interested in boosting South-West economy.

He said the projects would be financed solely by the government without borrowing from financial institutions.

For these giant strides in infrastructure and farreaching plans for Osun, Adeleke receives Vanguard’s Good Governance Award.

Osun Assembly Approves Tenure Extension For LG Caretaker Chairmen, Committees

NEWS RELEASE 16th February, 2024. The Osun State House of Assembly has approved the extension of tenure and reappointment of the 69 LCDA Caretaker Chairmen, Vice Chairmen, Scribes and their members from February to August 2024. This followed a letter sent to the House through the Speaker by the State Governor, Sen. Dr. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, and read on the floor of the House during Plenary today Friday by the Honourable Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun. Moving a motion to that effect by the Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Babajide Kofoworola Adewunmi, representing Ede North State Constituency and seconded by the Chief Whip Hon. Adewale Akerele from Ilesa West State Constituency Hon. Babajide Adewunmi however emphasised that in line with the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria as amended the State Assembly has the power to approve the extension. The members, after much deliberation and assessment of their performances, adopted the motion and approved the request thereby extending the tenure of the Caretaker Committees to August 2024. The Speaker congratulated and admonished the Caretaker Committees to continue to deliver dividends of democracy to the people at the grassroots. Signed: Olamide Tiamiyu, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, OSHA.

Economic Hardship: LG Chieftain, Hon Adeyinka Gbogbo Ebe Replicate Governor Adeleke Effort, Empowers Ife Indigenes

The Caretaker Vice Chairman of Ife Ooye Local Council Development Area, Hon. Adeniji Adeyinka, popularly known as Gbogbo Ebe, has once again demonstrated his loving kindness for his immediate people by empowering people in Okerewe Ward 1, within the Local Council Development Area.

According to the release through his media office, he described the empowerment as a means of giving back to the society that had produced him. Also, the scheme is to cushion the hardship being caused by the removal of the subsidy.

He said, "I am using this wonderful moment to give thanks to the Alpha and Omega, for giving me the privilege to carry out this exercise. In the same vein, I appreciate all my leaders within and outside the LCDA.

"This empowerment is to serve as a means of giving back to my people and the society that has produced me. Without the support of this society, I wouldn't be where I am today.

"This is the first phase of what will be coming out from my office. I have a strong belief that, the subsequent one will be greater than this. This first phase, is to empower ten(10) people in each ward."

He rounded his speech off by beseeching the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the grant. The Caretaker Vice Chairman assured that, those that were not catered for in the first batch, will be catered for in the second batch.

E-Signed

Media unit, office of the Vice Chairman, Ife Ooye LCDA. Ita - Osa, Ile-Ife.

Economic Crisis:Governor Adeleke Disburses N500m Plus Social Safety Funds

NEWS RELEASE

Economic Crisis:Governor Adeleke Disburses N500m Plus Social Safety Funds ● 19,000 Plus Beneficiaries Joyful

● Another 60, 000 Get ATM Cards

OSOGBO-15/02/2024- Osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke on Thursday disbursed a total sum of Five Hundred and Eighty Eight Million, One Hundred and Five Thousand Naira only (N588, 105,000.00) to 19,720 beneficiaries of Imole Osun Cash Grant Scheme.

An additional Sixty Thousand identified poor segment of the population are to receive ATMs of their bank accounts to facilitate their access to such grants.

In continuation of his administration's efforts to cushion the effects of the hard time, Governor Adeleke said the beneficiaries are mined from the State Social Register for Poor and Vulnerable Households domiciled in the State Operation Coordinating Unit, National Social Safety Net Project in the Ministry of Economic Planning, Budget and Development.

The Governor represented by the Head of Service, Mr Ayanleye Aina reviewed the many programmes of his administration to attend to the needs of the poor, the weak and the under-privileged said the administration has invested heavily in the Social protection sector, developing and implementing several high-level Social Security Strategies to reduce the poverty , unemployment and low productivity space among others.

Describing himself as a pro-poor, pro-welfare leader, the Governor said his administration’s Five Point Agenda has social investment as the core of its focus, noting that “these policies cut across health, education, agriculture, youth, women, children development and Special Needs.

“During our electioneering campaign, we promise that we shall not abandon them. We assure that we shall institutionalize an all-inclusive and well-coordinated Social protection Policy that will provide a life support system for the poor and vulnerable . This support system shall aim to reduce the income gap between the haves and the haves-not in our dear state.

In pursuance of that promise, the State Government of Osun under my watch, in collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the State Operation Coordinating Unit (SOCU), National Social Safety Net Project, supervised by the Ministry of Economic Planning, Budget and Development today launched this disbursement to the poor of the poor in the state

“Each beneficiary was supported with a sum of between Twenty Five (25,000.00) and Thirty Thousand Naira (N30, 000.00) only. Among the 19,720 beneficiaries, 10,390 of them with existing bank accounts have had access to withdraw and utilize their money.

Also, I have given approval that the remaining 9,330 beneficiaries be given their debit cards. These people are poor people without account numbers and with this distribution, it becomes an achievement that is in tandem with the financial inclusion policy of the Federal Government.

From the foregoing, at least 60,000 people are going to receive their ATM cards of bank accounts which was facilitated through this programme. The smart cards can be useful for further pro poor interventions and private use”, the Governor was quoted as saying.

Governor Adeleke said the objective of the cash intervention is to provide relief for the most poor and vulnerable population in the state against the harsh economic conditions occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidies, high cost of living among others.

Signed Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor.

Osun State, Local Governments Launches Electronic State of Origin Certificate Portal

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO- 14/02/2024- Osunstate.gov.ng

The Osun State government has digitalized the issuance of state and local government certificates of origin starting from today.

The state government under the leadership of Governor Ademola Adeleke in collaboration with the State Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) enjoined the general public to hereby obtain their Automated Local Government Certificate of Origin as well as State of Origin Certificates on the recently launched portal at https://stateoforigin.osunstate.gov.ng

In a news release signed by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, the government urged all Osun indigenes who wish to obtain their local government certificate of origin as well as State of Origin Certificates to log in to the portal from wherever they are all over the world.

They are to fill in their details and be rest assured that after verification is done, the electronic certificate of Origin for their Local Government will be available for download for use.

Furthermore, there is a provision for any individual with an old Local Government Certificate of Origin who wishes to convert the old one to the new automated electronic certificate to login to the portal, upload the old certificate and the new one will be issued.

The release therefore implored the public to know that this initiative is inline with Governor Adeleke's ease of doing business efforts.

The initiative also aligns with the Governor's vision of ensuring improved and efficient service delivery in all sectors and arms of the state.

Members of the public should note that henceforth the state of origin certificate as well as local government certificate of origin will not be obtained physically at state or Local government offices again but only through the electronic portal only (https://stateoforigin.osunstate.gov.ng )

The State ALGON Chairman, Hon. Sarafadeen Awotunde described the programme as a very good initiative to improve the image of all the local government councils in Osun State as well as optimize service delivery to Osun indigenes.

Signed: Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Information and Public Enlightenment

Judicial Staff Strike: State Panel Meets, Reassures on End to Disputes

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO-13/02/224- Osunstate.gov.ng

The state panel on the resolution of Osun judicial industrial disputes has reaffirmed its readiness to resolve the industrial disputes within the judiciary within one week as directed by Governor Ademola Adeleke.

The panel chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon Teslim Igbalaye met for several hours on Monday and mapped out plans of action to resolve the disputes.

Members of the panel include the Attorney General of Osun State , Hon Jimi Bada, Esq; and five other members of the state executive council who are also legal practitioners.

The Attorney General briefed the meeting on the efforts of the Ministry of Justice to find solutions to the disputes, adding that “ it was a delicate incident as the executive arm is being circumspect on the industrial action.

“ The directive of Mr Governor was however a game changer. We are relating with all stakeholders to find amicable resolution. It is in the collective interest of all justice sector actors to find ways out”, he said.

Bada Esq said “we are already acting on resolution process, listing initial payments of withheld salaries of some judicial workers and the openness of the executive arm to support the payment of the outstanding wardrobe allowances

The panel Chairman, Hon Igbalaye affirmed that the committee has swung into action by reviewing the draft tripartite agreement between the judicial union,the head of judicial arm and the executive arm of government.

“We are happy to report that from the first meeting, we have made a lot of headway. We are also building on the great job already done by the national leadership of the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria. We are resolved to ensure we implement the marching order of Mr Governor.

“I want to assure the public that there is no plan to interfere in the operations of the judiciary. Nobody is planning any mobile courts or any strange structures. We are sticking to the mandate of the committee which is to get the courts re-opened within seven days”, Hon Igabalaye was quoted as saying.

The SSG commends the patience of all actors within the judiciary , promising that “ the Governor has taken the bull by the horns to get the court up and running”

Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor

Owa Stool: Adeleke and His White Paper

The unprecedented incident in Igbajo is one of the biggest wrongdoings of Gboyega Oyetola's administration through his former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Adebayo Adeleke (Banik. The damage done by Oyetola and Banik towards ruining the affairs of communities wasn't limited to Igbajo only. Ikirun and Iree were also affected by this heartless action of Oyetola.

The Akirun's Palace was burnt down, and many lives were lost as a result of the imposition of Kings by the APC. However, the Igbajo Development Association (IDA) was proactive in calling the grieving parties into order so as not to disturb the peace and orderliness in the state, pending the time that court judgement will be passed and the Governor makes his decision on the Executive Order that suspended the conferment of the Kings in Igbajo, Iree and Ikirun.

The governor immediately put up a committee that was charged with the responsibility to look into these incidents and call all parties involved to come up with a report to give the governor. Since then, the people from the affected towns have been awaiting the white paper report of the committee on the issue.

The wait came to an end on Thursday, 18/01/2024, and for Igbajo's case, the state government nullified the installation of Prince Adegboyega and called for an inclusive selection process should commence immediately.

The throne of Owa of Igbajo became vacant on 24th December 2020 after the death of the late Oba Olufemi Adeniyi Fashade (Akeran IV). Oba Fashade sat on the throne of his fathers for 30 years before he died at age 81.

Igbajo is an ancient town in Osun State, South West, Nigeria, known for its key role in the Kiriji war, was left without a king for almost 2 years, probably before the King makers' favourite was still busy with politics so they had to keep his retirement plan for him.

Fortunately, as fate would have it, Prince Adegboyega Famodun, who is the former Chairman of All Progressive Congress, led his party to a flawless election where the then incumbent Governor lost his return election. Prince Famodun's retirement got closer. His dream of staying in the seat of a ruling party was cut short with the victory of Governor Ademola Adeleke. A few days before the end of Oyetola's administration, Prince Famodun hurriedly activated his retirement plan and got the former governor, Oyetola, to crown him the Owa of Igbajo

The question of how the former APC Chairman got announced and the gymnastics that surrounded his conferment raised eyebrows on his kingship. This is because we know how power can get you anything anywhere in this country. The question of his eligibility was never in place because Prince Adegboyega Famoodun is the first son of the late Oba Isaac Adelani Famodun.

For understanding sake, Igbajo has only two ruling houses, which are the Owa Iloro Ruling House, the ruling House, and the Owa Oke-Odo Ruling House. With his Houses having at least 5 compounds each. Going by the rotation of the seat, the Owa Iloro, Odofin Iloro compound produced the late Owa, so automatically, it was the turn of Owa Oke-Odo to produce the next Owa however, a particular compound, the Gbeleru Eyinbi compound in Owa Oke-Odo has a family that produced Owa 3 times. This is not even an issue as long as the procedure is carried out in an all-inclusive and transparent manner. A family can produce 10 kings.

However, the selection of Prince Adegboyega Famodun was carried out in an exclusive manner where the Loye of Igbajoland, Adewumi Taiwo, was used by Oyetola, Famodun in the hatchet job that denied all other eligible Princes from Owa Oke-Odo Ruling House from signifying their interest. Prince Taiwo's position as the Head of Princes in Igbajo was used to promote the interest of Prince Adegboyega Famodun.

The vindictiveness cry from the APC shows their disregard for due process and amplifies how they ran the state without following due process in their activities. Governor Adeleke should be commended for his commitment to due process and also for restoring peace and orderliness to Ikirun, Iree, and Igbajo. Oyetola should be held responsible for this unprecedented event in the ancient towns.

I urge Prince Adegboyega Famodun to disregard the stupid sympathy of his ally, Lawal, and signify interest in the new all-inclusive selection process if he is still interested in the throne of his forefathers.

Great Oluwaseun is my name from Legiri Compound, from Owa Oke-Odo Ruling House in Igbajo, Boluwaduro East LCDA.

Governor Adeleke Commissions new Fire Service Trucks, Promises to Unveil Disaster Management Strategy

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO- 12/02/2024- Osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke on Monday commissioned newly bought fire service trucks for the state fire service, promising to soon unveil the state's disaster management strategy.

The last time the state government bought fire trucks was during the Olagunsoye Oyinlola administration while former Governor Rauf Aregbesola was on record to have repaired the trucks.

Speaking at the commissioning, Governor Adeleke said the two new trucks mark the first phase of the fire service sector reform, promising that more trucks are on the way.

“Today, I kick started phase one of our administration’s reform of the fire service sector. This is the start of an expanded reform which will include the provision of fire fighting trucks, equipment accessories, training of personnel and implementation of national standards for disaster prevention.

“When we took office, the fire service was down. The service lacks appropriate fire fighting equipment. The sector was largely neglected. Our team decided to focus attention on re-equipping the service because of its importance to the state economy.

“Disaster management is a key element of every economy. Unfortunately, this is a sector mostly overlooked. Failure to manage disaster issues can wreck homes, individuals, businesses and even a state. We must all join hands to ensure preventive practices.

“Our government is working on a disaster preparedness management strategy. The Secretary to the State Government is to work on an inter-ministerial committee to fast track the process”, the Governor noted.

Welcoming the Governor, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Hon Rasheed Aderibigbe told the gathering that the last 12 years has been the worst in the life of the state fire service.

He recalled that disaster management was accorded very low attention under the previous APC administration, commending Governor Adeleke for his holistic approach to governance especially the renewed attention to the fire service sector .

“We thank His Excellency for reviving the fire service. These trucks and more that are still coming will go a long way to strengthen.the capacity of the service to curtail incidents of fire outbreak”, the Commissioner posited.

The event was attended by the Head of Service, Mr Ayanleye Aina, members of the State Executive Council, special advisers and other government functionaries.

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

Osun Judicial Strike: Governor Adeleke Sets Up Resolution Committee

NEWS RELEASE

● Writes AG, CJN

● Gives 7-Day Ultimatum

OSOGBO-11/02/2024- Osunstate.gov.ng

Worried by protracted strike action by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria, Governor Ademola Adeleke has set up a seven man committee to urgently resolve the industrial dispute.

The Governor is also sending a briefing letter to the Attorney General of the Federation and the Chief Justice of Nigeria, calling for support to resolve the industrial dispute.

The Governor in the letters briefed the top judicial officials on his efforts so far to get the crisis resolved despite the fact that the bone of contention is pure judicial staff matters.

The Committee led by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon Teslim Igbalaye is to find a lasting solution to the crisis within the judiciary within seven days, Mr Governor further directed.

The new intervention by Governor Adeleke followed his previous efforts which include payment of withheld salaries of some judicial staff, negotiation on wardrobe allowances and recent hosting of the national leadership of the judicial staff union.

Governor Adeleke said he is setting up the committee with a direct mandate to get this dispute resolved whatever it will take, noting that his action is to restore normalcy and not to interfere in the judicial arm of government.

“ We are being careful all along not to be accused of meddling in judicial matters. But it is now almost an emergency. We must get the issues ironed out.

“ I told the national leadership of JUSUN to mediate. I am also reaching out to the Attorney General and the Chief Justice. We need to get our courts running for regular dispensation of justice”, the Governor was quoted as saying.

Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor

How Government-Alumni Partnership Board will Operate- Governor Adeleke

NEWS RELEASE

● Board, 1st of its Kind in Nigeria-Asiwaju of Ijeshaland

OSOGBO- 11/02/2024-Osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke has shed more light on the operational procedures for the proposed Government-Alumni Partnership Board designed to harness alumni contributions for the development of the education sector.

He made the elaboration at the 90th Year anniversary celebration of the Ilesa Grammar School where he was conferred with the award of the ‘Most Benevolent Leader’ by the Alumni Association of the school under Engr Obisesan Daramola.

Governor Adeleke who listened all through the anniversary lecture presented by Dr Akin Fapohunda, class of 1969, said the partnership board is going to operate on a Public - Private Partnership Model, adding however that “ the board will be private sector driven.

“ I have directed the Ministry of Education to consult widely while putting up a framework for the operation of the board. It is not going to be another bureaucratic set up. No, it is going to involve a private sector driven structure.

“We are open to ideas on how best to make the board functional and strong enough to fulfill its mandate. My team will reach out to all stakeholders in the process of putting up the structures.

“ The paper submitted by the guest lecturer will also be closely studied . I noted all the brilliant ideas. We will make the board as simple as possible. The main goal is to ensure that alumni groups alongside the Parents and Teachers Associations play prominent roles in the development of our schools”, the Governor noted while accepting the award.

He told the gathering at Ilesa that his administration is implementing multiple programmes to enhance the state of education, citing ongoing complete rehabilitation of schools, recruitment of teachers, planned integrated retraining of teachers and planned e-learning project to address the question of access to instructional materials.

On the general policy focus of his administration, Governor Adeleke narrated his government ongoing implementation of a multi-billion naira infra upgrade, the diversification of state economy through new cocoa revival plan and new creative industry agenda, the reform of the mining sector to widen revenue base, the ongoing execution of a state digital economy agenda among others.

Presenting the award on behalf of the alumni association, the Asiwaju of Ijesahland , Chief Yinka Fasuyi described the Government-Alumni Partnership Board proposed by the Governor as the first of its kind by any state government in Nigeria.

“ This is unprecedented and unique. We are really impressed that you have this plan and you have given the due directive for the making of an.implementation framework. Mr Governor, we are pleasantly surprised.

“We thank you profusely for all you are doing for Ijeshaland. We appreciate your support and positive action on the University of Ilesa. We thank you for our sons you placed in a key office within your administration. You have our backing to do more for the greater glory of our dear state”, Chief Fasuyi stated.

The Chairman of the Anniversary celebration committee, Dr Wale Boluwaduro described Governor Adelekw as an impressive achiever who within a year has transformed the state and placed it on a trajectory of people centered development.

“You earn the confidence of Osun people. You satisfy the expectation of the association and there is no doubt you have our backing for a second term in office”, Dr Boluwaduro noted.

Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor

2026: Why is Wole Oke Fighting a Failed Proxy War? (1)

2026: Why is Wole Oke Fighting a Failed Proxy War? (1)

By Kalejaiye Ajala Governor Ademola Adeleke is an exceptional man, and this is partly because of how he confounds traducers. This was something I immediately noticed when I read a piece titled "Oluwole Oke: 2026 Guber and Disentangling the Political Turmoil In Osun" by one Josiah Ige, cleverly couched to sell a wrong narrative about Governor Adeleke and the ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

I burst into a wild laughter after reading the piece because it showed that those opposed to Governor Adeleke, who most certainly commissioned the write up, learnt nothing from the past as they struggle to persuade themselves of the watery projection of division in the Osun PDP and poor performance against the Governor.

Why is Wole Oke using proxy to challenge a surely very popular leader? If he is man enough, let him come out and challenge Mr Governor. He cannot do that because he knows that will be his final political waterloo. If he is attacking to secure and blackmail for another return ticket to the House, he is playing a failed game. His people and the party will decide his fate, not blackmail.

The atmosphere in the Osun PDP, when Governor Adeleke joined party stalwarts at the last stakeholders' meeting in Osogbo, punctured the insinuation of a divided support for the governorship ticket as propounded by Josiah Ige. The party unanimously endorsed the Governor for a second term. Also, two out of the four founding fathers of the party in Osun embraced Governor Adeleke at the meeting while the remaining two who were unavoidably absent communicated reasons in writing to the party leadership.

Sure, people do have aspirations. And I don't see the basis for the unnecessarily sensation that the writer tried to stir with the purported questionable aspiration. The mistake of the writer and his boss is a false sense of grandeur for a lawmaker known for his waywardness and unreliability with the people and the party.

In the build up to the 2022 governorship election, there was something beyond rumours, which Josiah Ige, is trying to make an issue about contesting the PDP ticket with Governor Adeleke, as Oke announced his aspiration for the party's ticket then. In the end, it was known to be a decoy to bargain for house tickets. Same blackmail strategy cannot work this time around.

Eric Arthur Blair, popularly known as George Orwell, drew our consciousness to the feature of a political language. The renowned English author and journalist notes that "Political language is designed to make lies sound truthful and murder respectable, and to give an appearance of solidity to pure wind." And to be kind to Orwell, he got it right, especially when you consider Josiah Oke’s proxy assessment of Governor Adeleke's performance in office.

Whenever I hear or read about anything that questions the performance of the Governor, I realize the potency of the disease that blinds people to reality. Because nothing can explain the open denial of what is clearly visible to all, and acknowledged by many who have seen the positive impacts of the Adeleke administration within a short period.

Contrary to Josiah Ige or Wole Oke’s assessment, Governor Adeleke has been remarkable in turning the hopeless situation he inherited to a scenario that offers hope for the future. A typical instance is the payment of the owed half salary by the previous administration and implementing the financial implication of promotion given to civil servants by Gboyega Oyetola, former governor in the state, in 2019. Until Governor Adeleke came to office, workers have lost hope of getting financial benefits of promotion given to them just as they did with the owed half salary.

Within a year, Governor Adeleke paid four months out of the 30 months half salary owed by the previous administration. This was something his predecessor declared as impossible and demonstrated this by not attempting just one month throughout his 48 months in office. Less than 18 months in office, Governor Adeleke has expended more than N25 billion on the payment of gratuities and pension arrears. In yet an unprecedented event, the Governor enrolled the entire retirees in the state on a comprehensive healthcare plan, relieving them of the burden of managing their health at old age. Governor Adeleke is the first Governor in the whole of Nigeria to implement something like this for senior citizens.

In terms of infrastructure, Governor Adeleke has done so much within a short time to the chagrin of his doubters. No fewer than 90 kilometers of road projects across the state have been embarked upon by Governor Adeleke, and unlike the experience in the past, it spread across the federal constituencies in Osun state. Abandoned road projects, such as the Osogbo-Ikirun dual carriage road has come to life as 10.5km of the portion had been delivered and already in use while efforts are ongoing to complete the stretch to the Kwara boundary. Ona Baba Ona is yet an abandoned road project, but which Governor Adeleke administration has taken up and will be delivered to Osun people in a matter of weeks.

In October 2023, Governor Adeleke unveiled an ambitious infrastructure plan, which will transform Osun in terms of infrastructure and improve the situation of the people. The good thing with this infrastructure plan is that it cuts across sectors, promising major road projects including five flyovers, rehabilitation of schools and PHCs, improved access to water through sinking of motorized boreholes in each of the 332 political wards and a host of others. In this plan, at least 1.5km of road will be constructed in each of the 30 local governments and the area office, something that wasn't experienced under his predecessor. Work has started on some of these projects, particularly the Old Garage-Lameco dual-carriage road project.

In his short-term measure to meet the health needs of the people, Governor Adeleke introduced Imole Surgical and Medical Outreach, which has so far benefitted nothing less than 50,000 across the state for various health challenges including operations. A few weeks ago, Osun took delivery of digital transmitters and other equipment necessary to revive broadcast media outfits in Iwo, Ife and Osogbo under the Osun State Broadcasting Corporation (OSBC).

So, the opinion that Governor Adeleke is not performing in office is at best, jaundice, because the manifestations of the remarkable success that Governor Adeleke has recorded as Governor is too glaring for anyone to reach the warp conclusion inherent in Josiah Ige piece. This wrong notion definitely guided the wrong assumption of questions on utilization of federal accruals.

I think the rush to sell wrong narratives about Governor Adeleke failed the Oke camp. For a start, Osun did not receive N150 billion as allocation in 2023 not to talk of the 'over' Josiah Ige erroneously quoted in his article. Just as I had said in a previous article, FAAC allocation distribution is public information, and it is unwise for anyone to subject it to propaganda as we just observed. Osun received less than N150 billion last year, and what a significant part of the receipt was spent on is clear to all, including those who choose to live in denial, out of political considerations.

Roads, renovation of schools, pension liabilities, salaries, borehole projects, and many others were the beneficiaries of receipts for Osun from federal sources last year. And one thing, which I think those in the business of selling wrong narrative about Osun and Governor Adeleke is that, he had at several occasions informed the people of the creation of a separate account for projects, where unutilized funds are remitted to fund critical projects for the state. He explained this to journalists when they sought to know where funds for the multi-billion infrastructure plan will come from since the state will not borrow for it. Haba!

Governor Adeleke is a sincere leader and this much was acknowledged by a former Commissioner for Finance in the state, Dr. Wale Bolorunduro, when he noted that "I have told people that this is the most sincere governor, Osun ever has" at a recent visit by Ilesa Grammar School Old Students Association.

And as for the conjecture about Yeyeluwa Modupeola Sanni-Adeleke, which Josiah Ige, extensively explored in his failed attempt to misrepresent Governor Adeleke, it is best to leave him to the fancy of his beer parlor gossip, which is in no way the same with reality. Osun people voted Governor Adeleke and he's very much in charge of the government of the people as against the wild and unreasonable theory entertained by cheap politicians.

Wole Oke should know that he is committing the worst political mistakes of his life by these unwarranted attacks on Mrs Adeleke -Sanni and highly respected Dr Deji Adeleke. He needs to learn from political history to know that the Adeleke family always plays straight , hence the family’s victory in most political battles.

What sin has the family committed to warrant false attacks and accusations? Is it a sin to support one’s brother? Is it not a pride when a member of your family is doing well as Governor Adeleke is widely judged to be doing ? What does Wole Oke stand to gain by dragging in the mud names of respected global business icon, Dr Deji Adeleke?

If One continues on this path, there is no doubt that we will face him squarely especially as our Governor is performing.

Governor Adeleke is making Osun people proud and his family happy that he is justifying the confidence reposed in him. The Governor is busy with the job of meeting the needs of the people and won't be distracted, no matter how sly Oke and his few co-travellers are.

●Kaleaiye of Imole +4 Movement send this piece from Ilesa

Ademola Adeleke: The man with gavel and red pen by Seyi Adeniyi

In 2017, when Governor Ademola was at the senate, as Senator representing Osun West Senatorial District, I have the privilege of having a round table discussion with him, alongside some other senior colleagues in the media. Despite a first timer at the senate, one could see that he really had a grasps of the workings of the National Assembly.

We planned to spend just an hour with him, based on the itinerary sent to us, lo and behold, we ended up spending four hours with him, and at the end, he personally served us with good delicacies. What an humble man!

One of the things I have discovered about Governor Ademola Adeleke in the last one year as his Media Aide is that he detests lies and eyes service. He is someone who doesn't allowed the euphoria of his office to get him carried away from doing what is right.

He told his Commissioners and Special Advisers during the retreat that "Whenever you are bringing a file to me for my assent, make sure it is a developmental project which will have direct impacts on the life of ordinary citizens in the State."

He has said it on many fora that "When it is time to play, we will play, but when it is time to get to work, we must." Ademola Adeleke is a Governor who has raised the tempo of governance in Osun. What some past leaders in the State proclaimed impossibility, Adeleke "The great dancer" is making it possible - in terms of delivering on his promises.

Operating an open door policy. Osun people are aware what the government is doing, unlike what played out when APC government was here. They ran an administration of secrecy, putting Osun residents in total blackout.

Adeleke has promised that the he will only jit the gavel for the good of the people of Osun state, ditto the red pen will only sign documents that will move Osun State forward. Let me go biblical, Proverbs 29:2 says, When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn. This bible verse refers to what is happening in Osun today.

Governor Adeleke administers the state with fear of God, hence people keep supporting his administration despite the propaganda and lies being spread around by the opposition APC in the state. People have now become more versed with what is going on in the government, unlike before when the APC governed like an emperor who doesn't give a hoot about what people say or their feelings.

All the projects and programmes embarked upon by this administration have so far been accepted by the people of Osun. Just few weeks ago, Mr Governor approved a whooping sum of One Billion Naira (N1 billion) to cooperative societies in Osun as a revolving loan. This is unprecedented. No doubt, locals will enjoy this gesture and it will certainly have direct impact on their businesses. Perhaps, this and many other giant strides of this administration informed the decision of Osun workers, pensioners and cooperators to give awards of different categories to the performing Governor.

Just few days ago, the announcement came as a surprise even to me, who is on the corridor of power, that Governor Adeleke has graciously approved another whooping sum of One Billion Naira (N1 Billion) to resuscitate the already moribund Ora-Igbomina water works.

Immediately I got the information, i informed my Kabiyesi, Oba Samuel Idowu Oladoye, the Akesin of Ora-Igbomina land, he was so elated and directed his media office to put up an appreciation note to His Excellency for remembering his subjects in his government. This is a government that prioritises people's welfare.

Yesterday, I went home for a meeting, I couldn’t imagine the kind of prayers my people offer this administration. When you attend to people's needs, they reciprocate when you need them.

The gavel and red pen in the hand of Governor Ademola Adeleke have served the people of Osun tremendously and they (Osun residents) are in love with the pen.

Yes, Osun APC as an opposition will have to talk, but I will implore them to be sensitive to what people say about this government. Playing opposition with a government that serves the interest of the people will continue to spell doom for them, because most of the problems that bedevils Osun State today came through them.

If Osun APC member have shame, they should cover their faces, and be asking for forgiveness on a daily basis.

Oluwaseyi Adeniyi Media Aide To Governor Ademola Adeleke and an indigen of Ora-Igbomina in Ifedayo local government.