Governor Adeleke’s Presence at a Wedding Is Not a Crime — It’s a Reflection of True Leadership

By Comrade Samakin Abdul-Jeleel Abiodun

In a functioning democracy like ours, leadership is not only measured by policy execution and infrastructure projects but also by human connection, empathy, and presence with the people; regardless of class, background, or profession.

Governor Ademola Adeleke, the Executive Governor of Osun State, embodies these values. His recent attendance at the wedding ceremony of Priscilla, the daughter of renowned Yoruba actress and filmmaker Iyabo Ojo, was in response to a personal invitation and a reflection of his open-hearted, people-centered approach to governance.

However, some opposition elements, clearly uncomfortable with the Governor’s rising popularity and performance, have taken to peddling needless criticism over this simple act of social grace. Their argument was that a sitting governor should not "have the time" to attend such a gathering. This, unfortunately, exposes their shallow understanding of leadership in a democratic society. Public service does not mean isolation from the people; it means being among them, celebrating with them, grieving with them, and standing by them. That is exactly what Governor Adeleke does.

Governor Adeleke is a leader who loves his people and they love him back. His personality is warm, jovial, and relatable. He is known across Nigeria not only for his administrative impact but also for his cheerful and compassionate nature. His attendance at such social events should not only be seen as proper, but celebrated, because it strengthens community ties, projects Osun State positively, and reminds citizens that their leader is one of them.

Let us not forget that while the Governor graced the event, he continues to deliver on his mandate without pause. In just two years, Governor Adeleke has completed over 200 kilometers of roads across Osun’s local governments. He is constructing three historic flyovers simultaneously in Osogbo, Ilesa, and Ile-Ife; the first of such development in the state's history. His 2025 Infrastructure Plan includes the completion of major highways like the Osogbo–Iwo–Oyo boundary road and the Osogbo–Ikirun–Inisha–Kwara boundary road, among others.

On the welfare front, he has implemented the new minimum wage, cleared large portions of the salary arrears owed by the previous administration, and rolled out free healthcare for pensioners under the Osun Health Insurance Scheme; a landmark initiative that has saved lives and brought dignity to retirees. His administration has empowered youth, promoted digital innovation, and restored trust in governance.

So why are these critics not talking about these achievements? The answer is simple: they are lazy politicians. Rather than acknowledge the visible progress under Governor Adeleke’s leadership, they resort to cheap blackmail and empty noise, hoping to distract the public from the truth, that Governor Adeleke is one of the best-performing governors in Nigeria today.

Leadership is not just about occupying a position; it is about touching lives. Governor Adeleke touches lives every day; through policy, projects, and personal presence. His ability to connect with the grassroots while driving development makes him stand out on the national stage. That is why in Osun we love him, and why his name continues to resonate far beyond the borders of Osun. Critics should focus on their responsibilities, if they have any, instead of trying to make an issue out of a joyful moment. Governor Adeleke remains committed to serving the people of Osun with passion, energy, and sincerity and no amount of baseless attacks will change that.

Governor Adeleke bemoans APC's Yes/No Chairmen, assures Osun people that illegal levy collectors risk detention

Governor Adeleke bemoans APC's Yes/No Chairmen, assures Osun people that illegal levy collectors risk detention

Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke has bemoaned the self-acclaimed Yes/No Chairmen, who are members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), behind illegal levy collection in some of the markets in Osun State.

The Governor, represented by his Deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi during an interactive meeting with leaders of market men and women, held at the Bola Governor's office on Tuesday, stated that those behind the dubious act will soon be made to face the wrath of the law.

Prince Adewusi who described the act as a corruption charged the market people across the State to remain vigilant against the antics of the hungry opposition.

While speaking, the Chairman of Osun Internal Revenue Service (OIRS) Hon. Hazmat Solanke who explained that only the approved revenue board can collect taxes, urged market leaders to turn fake tax collectors down peacefully and report them to the law enforcement agents.

In his remarks, the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Bunmi Jenyo who affirmed that the government never approved illegal levy in markets, also stated that the opposition APC has failed in its many attempts to hoodwink the people of Osun State.

According to the Commissioner, "the opposition APC has failed woefully in misleading the masses. They later instigated students against the government but all in vain".

"On the issue of illegal market levy collection by the court-sacked Yes/No Chairmen, they have failed again, and they will continue to fail", he said.

The Commissioner also noted how the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) declined to open an account for the Yes/No Chairmen.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Market Affairs, Chief (Mrs.) Grace Eniola Omotoso, disclosed that the Adeleke-led government is not collecting levies or unsubstantiated taxes from the members of the public.

According to her, the traders must not cooperate with unapproved revenue collectors. “I have asked those collecting the levies, where are they remitting the money? Anybody who comes to the market to issue a ticket to you, chase him/her out of the market".

"The Osun State government has made it abundantly clear that no ticket should be issued to traders in our market for now and no one is expected to come to you to ask you for money", she said.

The meeting was well attended by the adequate representation of the Iyalojas led by Chief Mrs Mary Oyebode, the Babalojas and members of Egbe Olowo across all the nooks and crannies of Osun State.

Governor Adeleke Receives Accolades Over Cracks Down on Illegal Revenue Collection in Osun Markets

Kudos to the Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, for taking a bold stand against illegal revenue collectors! This move is a significant step towards curbing tax extortion and forgery, which have been major concerns for market operators in the state.

By instructing market leaders to report any illegal revenue collection activities to the police, Governor Adeleke is demonstrating his commitment to ensuring that markets in the state operate legally and without undue harassment. His directive to the police commissioner to investigate and prosecute those involved in forging council documents and collecting dubious revenue is also a welcome move.

As Gbenga Ajayi, SSA CSDA, I commend Governor Adeleke's efforts to promote transparency and accountability in revenue collection. His leadership is a shining example of how governance can be used to protect the interests of citizens and promote economic growth. Keep up the good work, Governor Adeleke!

2025 One Service, One Medal Games Kick Off April 24 in Abuja

The 2025 edition of the One Service, One Medal Games is set to officially kick off on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in Abuja, bringing together athletes from various security and paramilitary agencies across the country in a celebration of unity, discipline, and athletic excellence.

The Games, which run from April 23 to 29, will be hosted at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium and other key sporting venues in the Federal Capital Territory.

Events will span across Package A and B of the stadium, Jabi Lake, Old Parade Ground, Nigeria Air Force Base, and the FIFA Goal Project.

Fifteen sports have been scheduled for this year’s competition, including athletics, badminton, beach volleyball, boxing, football, golf, handball, karate, shooting, squash, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, tennis, and tug of war.

The grand closing ceremony will take place at the main bowl of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium on Tuesday, April 29.

The event will not only deliver thrilling competition but also foster camaraderie among the nation’s Armed Forces and paramilitary services.

Signed:
Kehinde Ajayi (Mrs) FCAI, ANIPR Director (Information and PR) April 14 2025

BREAKING NEWS CBN Bursts Court - Sacked Chairmen, Insists on Due Process over LG Accounts

BREAKING NEWS

CBN Bursts Court - Sacked Chairmen, Insists on Due Process over LG Accounts

●Questions whereabout of much, non-existing Reinstatement Order

● As commercial Banks Rebuff Attempts to Freeze LG Accounts

Attempts by the court-sacked Yes/No Chairmen to hoodwink the Central Bank of Nigeria to open council accounts and get the apex bank to lodge council funds has failed.

Further push by the impostors across the council secretariats to freeze local government accounts in some commercial banks and open new ones was rebuffed by the banks who questioned on whose authority such operation had been carried out.

The sacked chairmen had clandestinely written to the apex bank requesting to open bank accounts to deposit Osun local government allocations.

The illegal occupants of the Secretariats cited an alleged Court of Appeal judgment which they claimed had reinstated them as a basis for the account opening requests.

As though afraid that the CBN may burst its lies and misinformation, the sacked chairmen failed to include a copy of the Court order which allegedly reinstated them.

Rather, the opposition hatchetman only included an enrolled court order without referring to the actual Federal High Court judgement which indeed sacked the council impostors.

They indirectly admitted before the CBN that the judgment sacking them really exists and they did not present any evidence that the judgement has been vacated.

Additionally, the sacked henchmen did not attach the full Court of Appeal judgment which they claimed had reinstated them as council chairmen

Unknown to them, the Apex Bank has even more details on development in Osun including copies of all the judgments and ongoing cases with respect to the local government leadership.

The top bank then responded to the letter from the impostors, asking where the court order was and why it was not attached.

The sacked chairmen have since not responded to the CBN request because they have no court order to present.

RE: OSUN 2026: THE SCARCITY OF TRUTH IN A NATURE FULL OF LIES"

RE: OSUN 2026: THE SCARCITY OF TRUTH IN A NATURE FULL OF LIES"

By James Bamgbose

It is important to swiftly and firmly address the misconception of one Abdullahi Tadese, in his opinion article titled “Osun 2026: The Scarcity of Truth in a Nature Full of Lies”. In that piece, Tadese displayed an unfortunate detachment from political reality and exposed himself as someone trapped in a delusive world of his own creation.

To boldly assert that a Governor elected by over 400,000 Osun indigenes and residents "danced his way to power" is not only dumbfounding, it is a disrespectful insult to the good people of Osun State who, despite 12 years of APC’s oppressive misrule, found hope and renewed strength in the candidacy of Senator Ademola Adeleke. This shameful statement trivializes the sweat, effort, and resilience of citizens who chose progress over propaganda.

Let it be made clear, no one "dances" his way into power, especially political power. Political power, in a democratic setting, is earned through vision, connection with the people, consistency in character, and a track record of humanity. If Tadese had ever contested a serious election, he would understand the rigour of grassroots politicking, the sleepless nights, and the genuine concern for people that it takes to win the hearts of voters

Governor Ademola Adeleke is not just a leader. He is a phenomenon whose emergence broke the chains of political elitism in Osun. In less than three years, his administration has outperformed every predecessor in the history of Osun State when it comes to delivering on campaign promises, ensuring inclusive governance, driving economic growth, and stabilizing security.

When Governor Adeleke assumed office in 2022, he inherited a state in tatters, Civil servants were in despair, demoralized by 12 years of mistreatment; Pensioners were dying in silence, abandoned by an APC government that looted their future; Primary healthcare centres (PHCs) were comatose—funds meant for revitalization had been siphoned without a trace; Osun’s infrastructural landscape was littered with abandoned projects.

But look at Osun today. In under three years, a breath of fresh air has swept through the land. The governor has executed projects across the 30 local governments and area council and ensures the state’s economy benefits directly through local content engagement. Youths are being employed, local artisans are thriving, and businesses are booming again as a result of its homegrown infrastructure policy.

What Abdullahi Tadese conveniently ignores is the true meaning of economic growth and governance. Perhaps he needs a crash course on how engaging local hands in public projects stimulates the economy. Unlike the APC era where Osun resources were outsourced to cronies in Lagos, Governor Adeleke is building Osun for Osun by Osun.

And then there’s Tadese's hypocrisy, while he attempts to belittle Governor Adeleke's legitimate electoral triumph, he is quietly lobbying his party to microzone the APC ticket to favour his preferred candidate, clearly aware that without manipulation, they stand no chance. If dancing is all it takes, then he might as well ask his own anointed aspirant to hit the dance floor. Let’s see how far that gets him.

The truth is glaring, no APC candidate from the West, Central, or East can stand against Governor Ademola Adeleke in a free and fair election. Osun people have spoken in 2022, and their message is clear. They will stand by their message in 2026 and reject cruelty, deception, and rudderless governance of the APC again. They are not going back.

So, to Abdullahi Tadese, a word of advice, snap out of your hallucinations. The people now own their democracy. Imole is working. Osun is moving forward—and nothing, not even the lies of a frustrated opposition mouthpiece, can stop the light.

• James Bamgbose writes from Ward 4, Igbajo, Boluwaduro Local Government, Osun State. He can be reached via bamgbosejames9@gmail.com

Governor Adeleke Directs Police Commissioner to Stop Tax Extortion & Forgery by Yes/No Council Chairmen

NEWS RELEASE

OSOGBO - 13/04/2024 - Osunstate.gov.ng

Governor Ademola Adeleke has directed the Osun state Commissioner of Police to stop ongoing imposition of illegal taxes on market operators and forgery of council documents by some court-sacked Yes/No council chairmen, describing the development as inimical to sustenance of law and order at the grassroots.

The governor further instructed the police Commissioner to invite the affected council chairmen for questioning for falsifying council documents, collecting dubious revenue through illegal documents and for imposing and collecting illegal revenue from market operators.

The Governor citing various reports of such illegality especially from Boripe local government, said such activities not only breached clear provisions of the law but also constitute an affront on the judiciary to which the APC has filed an appeal over the sacking of its Yes/No chairmen.

The Governor in his directive to the Commissioner cited Boripe Local Government where the court-sacked chairman inaugurated a revenue taskforce which forged and printed out some council documents purportedly for internally generated revenue (IGR).

The governor noted that the same illegal taskforce officials have began issuing the fake documents like local government Identification letters, market revenue receipts etc. to the members of the public, directing the police commissioner to intervene before any breakdown of law and order.

Governor Adeleke has further directed his Special Adviser on Security to liaise with the police Commissioner for the implementation of the directive as he expressed shock at the brazen imposition of hardship and pains on the people through illegal revenue and tax collections.

“Is this the reason for illegal occupation of local government secretariats? Is this all about extorting the people and imposing pains and suffering on them? This should stop forthwith.

“We alert the public to this new round of illegality on a subjudiced matter. I have directed the police authorities accordingly. Forging council documents and collecting revenue illegally are punishable offences before the law. Any person caught in such act will face the full wrath of the law”, the Governor was quoted as saying in the statement

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

CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO Aux. Amb. Cmdr. Adegboyega Samuel O.

FROM:
Directorate Of Media,
Osun State Headquarters,
Nigeria Cadet Network.

CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE TO Aux. Amb. Cmdr. Adegboyega Samuel O.

On behalf of the entire Directorate of Media, Osun State Headquarters, we are delighted to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Auxiliary Ambassador Cmdr. Adegboyega Samuel O., our distinguished National Media and Publicity Officer/State Commander of the Nigeria Cadet Network, Osun State Command, on the monumental occasion of his marriage.

This special moment marks the beginning of a new and beautiful journey. It is a union not only of two individuals but of two hearts committed to growing together in love, respect, and companionship. We are incredibly proud of your leadership, dedication, and the outstanding role you have played within the Nigeria Cadet Network, not only at the state level but also in the broader national scope. Your efforts and contributions to the cadet movement have been commendable, and it is no surprise that your strength and character have been recognized in this new chapter of your life.

Marriage is a bond that brings together two souls with the shared goal of creating a future of mutual happiness, understanding, and partnership. We believe that this new journey will bring you and your wife immeasurable joy and fulfillment. May you continue to build a home grounded in love, patience, and the values that you have so beautifully demonstrated in your service to the Nigeria Cadet Network.

As you begin this new chapter, we pray that your union is blessed with peace, prosperity, and unwavering love. May the days ahead be filled with the happiness that comes from understanding, and the strength to overcome any challenges that life may present. We know that the love and support you share will only grow stronger with time, and that together, you will continue to inspire those around you, just as you have inspired many of us within the cadet family.

Your leadership and commitment to the values of the Nigeria Cadet Network have always been a beacon for many, and we are confident that the same dedication and passion will reflect in your new role as a partner in marriage. As you embark on this wonderful journey, we, your colleagues, friends, and fellow cadets, offer our deepest congratulations and best wishes.

We wish you and your beautiful wife a lifetime of happiness, success, and God's abundant blessings. May your marriage be as enduring and inspiring as the legacy you have already begun to build.

Happy Married Life, Sir!

Best Regards,
Cdt. Adeboye Igbinyemi
Directorate of Media,
Nigeria Cadet Network,
Osun State Command HQs.

Osun APC in Identity Crisis, Scared of Governor Adeleke's Local and National Acceptability

NEWS RELEASE

Osun APC in Identity Crisis, Scared of Governor Adeleke's Local and National Acceptability

OSOGBO - 10/04/2025 - Osunstate.gov.ng

The recent attacks and vituperations by Osun All Progressives Congress (APC) against Governor Ademola Adeleke are confirmation of opposition's identify crisis, its weakness within the Presidency and frustrations about increasing breakthroughs of the Adeleke administration.

"The Osun APC is busy complaining about a successful meeting with UK Prime Minister’s trade envoy, a meeting with concrete outcomes that the trade envoy hailed as a major breakthrough. The APC is shocked that such productive investment meeting happened right inside the House of Commons.

"The opposition is by now scrambling on what to say to another breakthrough recorded by Mr Governor - the deal on cultural tourism partnership at the British Musuem and the linkage between UK and Osun business through the Nigeria-UK Chamber of Commerce. The public awaits the lies and misinformation from Osun APC

"The opposition is confused about groundswell of support for Governor Adeleke across party lines and across local and national audience. The public at home and abroad are impressed by the huge delivery of the administration across sectors. Interestingly, the appraisal of performance is coming from federal and non-governmental bodies.

"The shock of national and local endorsements create identifty crisis for Osun APC as its lost credibility from the Presidency to key national caucus. The opposition is therefore running amock, ranting over billboards from non-governmental groups, displaying ignorance over investment drive and wandering over reality of its unelectability", the statement posited.

"The imminent re-election of Governor Adeleke will be the outcome of unwavering people's support, evidence-based performance in office, eternal vigilance of people to protect their votes and the divine grace of God. A Governor who has done so much for his people and who enjoys so much goodwill among national leaders is unbothered by the rantings of an unelectable opposition.

"Mr Governor assures the good people of Osun state that good governance delivery is unstoppable and he has the backing of men and women of goodwill across party lines, at home, at national level and in the diaspora", the statement concluded.

Signed: Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the State Governor

2026 RACE: OSUN WEST PDP ENDORSES GOVERNOR ADELEKE FOR SECOND TERM

PRESS STATEMENT
09/04/2025

2026 RACE: OSUN WEST PDP ENDORSES GOVERNOR ADELEKE FOR SECOND TERM

A gathering of party executives, leaders and elders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun West senatorial district today endorsed Governor Ademola Adeleke as the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2026 governorship election.

At the Osun West zonal meeting hosted by the Senator representing Osun West, Akogun Lere Oyewumi, the party leaders reviewed the performance of the Governor and concluded that he has represented the party exceptionally well and made the party and the state proud in term of governance delivery, declaring that Governor Adeleke more than deserves to flag the banner of the party for the 2026 race.

At the senatorial meeting, the Chairman of the party for Iwo local government, Hon Alidu Adeoye moved the motion for the endorsement of Governor Adeleke for the governorship ticket ahead of the 2026 election on behalf of local government elected officials of the party.

In his grand motion justifying the endorsement for second term, Adeoye recalled the many landmark achievements of Mr Governor within a space of two years and concluded that as a performing sitting Governor, the governor ticket should be automatic for the incumbent.

The motion seconded by Ebenzer Bolarinwa esq, a former stste legal adviser was co- seconded by all the groups present namely Hon Sunday Oroniyi for commissioners; Hon Odelade for special advisers; Mrs Atinuke Oyawoye for women groups; former Secretary to the State Government , Alhaji Fatai Akinbade for the elders;and Hon Mudashiru Lukman for the House of Representatives members.

Accepting the nomination and the endorsement on behalf of Governor Adeleke, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Hon Kazeem Akinleye thanked the party elders and the executives for the endorsement a d the confidence reposed in Mr Governor to stand as the party's candidate for the 2026 poll.

Hon Akinleye plegded the sustained support of the governor for good governance and the five point agenda, all within the framework of the PDP manifestoes, assuring party members that the Governor will deliver more than his first tenure when re-elected in 2026.

“Mr Governor is elated by this endorsement and he humbly accepts it as a furrher call for him to serve the good people of Osun state. The Governor will build on his present successes to provide good leadership for Osun state till 2030”, the Chief of Staff posited.

Speaking at the meeting, the host, Senator Akogun Lere Oyewumi said the Governor is a symbol of performance and good governance, declaring that Senator Adeleke represents the good and the best for Osun state from now till 2030.

“This endorsement is a confirmation of the popularity, acceptance and support of Mr Governor from his home zone of Osun West. We thank Osun people for supporting our Governor in 2022. We are here telling the state that we are re-presenting our son, our leader, Ademola Adeleke for second term in July 2026”, the senator declared.

Also speaking, the representative of the elders, Alhaji Akinbade said Governor Adeleke has discharged his responsibilities maturely, responsibly and rewardingly for the people of Osun state in last two years plus and therefore deserved a second term opportunity.

According to Akinbade, Governor Adeleke has rebranded and popularized the PDP as a party of achievements and progress, submitting that continuity of PDP government under Governor Adeleke is in the best interest of the state.

Leaders in attendance at the meeting are as follows: Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye, Akogun Olalere Oyewumi PhD, Lukman Mudashiru L&K, Lanre Oladebo, Chief Mrs. Oyawoye Atinuke, Alh. Fatai Akinbade, Elder. Akanfe Sunday Atidade, Chief Adeleke Okinni, all commissioners from Osun West, all Special Advisers from Osun West, Chief Ayodabo Aroni, Alh. Salinsile Iwo, Baba Alago Iwo, Prince Asero Olaoluwa, Iya Ogiyan Ejigbo, all newly elected Local Government chairmen, All party chairman, State Officers of PDP in Osun State, South West and National Exacutive of PDP, all state honourables from Osun West, five leaders each from the 10 l9cal governments, all chairmen of parastatals and Senatorial Chairman, Chief Adesoye Oyetunde.

Signed
Olusola Ajala, For PDP Committee of Publicists

LIES AND FALLACIES OF APC FALSE ALARM

1. Governor Ademola Adeleke is a leader who adheres strictly to the rule of law and not involved in any plot to procure Court judgement. The Governor is not the initiator of the three Court cases APC is now scared of;

2. APC faces three Court cases filed by stakeholders whose rights have been infringed by the invasion and hijack of council secretariats by the APC;

3. Governor Adeleke is not planning any attacks on the illegal Yes/No chairmen. The Governor has always preached rule of law as a basis for resolving the LG feud;

4. The cases in court were filed at Ilesa, Ikirun and Osogbo. The judiciary has a duty to hear cases and deliver judgement accordingly;

5. Amotekun has no political partisan role. The reform of Amotekun is to support official state security agencies for a better secured Osun state;

6. The DSS, the IGP and NSA have good understanding of happenings in Osun state. They know the Governor saved Osun from bloodbath by his embrace of rule of law after APC resorted to self help;

7. Osun APC rather than the governor resorted to self help by using non-existing court order to invade and hijack local government secretariats;

8. The Court of Appeal Ruling at Akure *contains no reinstatement order*. The appeal court did not restore The Yes/No chairmen because the Judgement that sacked them remains unvacated;

9. Local government workers out of their own volition went on strike for their own safety after illegals take over of the council secretariats. They also went to Court to seek interpretation and legality of action of the Yes /No Chairmen. Governor Adeleke was not responsible for the LG workers decision;

10. Essential services at local government are running smoothly from health to school facilities. State of origin and state identification have both been fully digitized and marriage events is planned to be hosted at Local government service commission at Osogbo any moment from now;

11. APC tauntrum and blackmail of judges is condemnable and we believe the NBA should condemn such anti-democratic conduct. The judges have a duty to hear cases assigned to them without fear or favor;

12. The cases against Osun APC are before the public and the judges have every legal duty to deliver judgements. Osun APC is afraid that its illegal occupation Of local government secretariats have no legal basis, hence its resorting to lies and falsehood;

13. Those who file cases expect the court to decide on the reliefs they sought and the reliefs to upturn illegal occupation of secretariats are all before the public. The court will decide;

14. Direct attack on Justice Aderibigbe and others is anti-democratic and anti-judiciary. The attacks are to blackmail and stop the judiciary from carrying out its duties. We call on NBA to condemn this evil act;

15. It is a false alarm to accuse the state of mobilising thugs to attack the illegal Yes/No chairmen. When the judges rule, we expect all democrats to abide by the Court ruling;

16. The State PDP did not approach the Supreme Court on the Akure Court of Appeal ruling because the judgement was explicit enough as it has *no consequential orders reinstating Yes/No chairmen*. Only the APC seeking powers by the back door lied and disrupted good governance at the local level;

17. The entirety of the APC press conference is based on false alarm, lies and fear of justice from the judiciary.

18. We affirm that neither Governor Adeleke nor Amotekun is planning any violence now or later;

19. All stakeholders and good people of Osun have absolute faith in the judiciary hence by resorting to rule of law. They expect a just outcome which the state APC is afraid of.

*_From Osun Government Media Centre_*

BREAKING NEWS LG Crisis: NULGE National Executive Backs Osun Chapter, Pledges support for Osun workers

• *Praises Osun State Government on Workers Welfare*

The National Executive Council of the National Union of Local Government Employee (NULGE) on Friday, April 4th, 2025, declared its full support to the leadership of the union in Osun State on their decision to withdraw their services over the local government crisis in the state.

Declaring their support in a meeting in Osogbo, the Osun state capital, Aliyu Haruna Kankara, the National President of the Union, who led other National Executive members and all the NULGE Presidents in the southwest on a solidarity visit to Osun, noted that the decision indicates that the union leadership cares about its members.

Kankara also praised the state government for prioritizing welfare of workers in the state, adding that the minimum wage table implemented in Osun is one of the best in the country .

He maintained that the Ademola Adeleke-led administration has changed the narrative in Osun, stating that the narrative before now is that there is no money.

He said, "We went round yesterday and saw the massive construction going on, we interacted with our members, and they all stated clearly that this government is doing well.

"The minimum wage table of Osun state is one of the best in the country. The narrative before your government is that there is no money, but since your government came, the narrative has changed.

"The Osun NLC Chairman have declared their support for the Governor of the state, we in Abuja also announce our support for your government, I believe that all the workers in Osun state are happy with the Governor.

"When I went round yesterday, everywhere was peaceful, so I see no reason anybody will want to influence us to change what is working. We stand firm by the decision of our state chapter, and nobody can change our decision, we are committed to the welfare of our workers, and we will not endanger their lives."

Governor Ademola Adeleke who was represented by his Deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi while appreciating NULGE National leadership who visited the Government Secretariat, assured the delegation of the Ademola Adeleke-led administration's continuous commitment to the welfare of workers and the good people of Osun State.

"Today is another good day in the history of Osun State. The presence of NULGE President is significant because he cared about the safety and welfare of his members.

"His Excellency saw it coming, that's why he instructed the newly elected Chairmen and councillors to stay away from local government secretariats to ensure peace reigns in Osun.

"The game plan was that after the swearing in ceremony of our duly elected Chairmen, they want to cause mayhem in the local government offices, set it ablaze, extend it to the state secretariat so that a state of emergency can be declared in Osun but God disappointed them.

"What they are waiting for is for NULGE to resume duty, so that they can force them to sign documents or files contrary to the appropriate way a local government should function, and that has also failed.

"Our Governor is a peace loving man, and that is why he directed the newly elected Chairmen to work from outside the secretariat so that there will be no hassle in the state.

"Our government will continue to do what is right for the people of Osun State, and we will ensure that the relative peace we are enjoying in Osun continues."

Speaking earlier, Com Christopher Arapasopo, Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, Osun State Chapter stated that the the withdrawal of NULGE members is a decision taken to protect lives of its members as it also aligns with the commitment of Governor Adeleke to prioritize workers welfare adding that Governor Adeleke is fulfilling his campaign promises.

He noted that the NLC in Osun will declare its support for Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration at an upcoming event very soon.

"We had no choice but to withdraw our members to protect the lives and properties of our members. And, after that, we will continue to appreciate Mr. Governor that, he has never stop the salary of workers. And also, before the Governor came on board and during his electioneering campaign, he was specific about workers' welfare. I want to say Mr. Governor has been doing excellently well.

"We've never had it this good in our dear state, we know what happened some years ago, where workers would receive promotion without financial backing, when Mr Govenor came on board, he made sure that everything is regularized. We can tell you now that, workers in the state are now enjoying promotion as and when due.

"Workers in osun State are saying this is our government.

"Concerning the withdrawal of services by our workers, we will start to defend our workers at all levels and by May 1, all workers in osun state will declare support for Governor Ademola Adeleke", he noted.

Osun Grassroots Media Team Holds First Conference of 2025, Commends Governor Adeleke’s Transformational Leadership

PRESS STATEMENT

OSOGBO-3/04/2025

The Osun Grassroots Media Team, an online advocacy platform championing good governance under the leadership of Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the Executive Governor of Osun State, has commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for his remarkable achievements since assuming office in 2022. This commendation was made during the team’s first conference of 2025, held today.

Speaking at the conference, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Broadcast Media, Alhaji Abdulrahman Adekilekun, highlighted key initiatives of Governor Adeleke’s administration. He emphasized the government’s commitment to the health sector, citing the ongoing upgrade, rehabilitation, and renovation of health centers across all local government areas in the state. He also announced the Governor’s directive for the Osun Health Insurance Scheme to commence free health insurance registration for residents, an unprecedented initiative in the state's history.

On infrastructure, Adekilekun noted that Governor Adeleke is prioritizing road construction and workers’ welfare, this is a contrast to the past APC administration where workers endured half-salary payments, delayed promotions without financial benefits, and career stagnation. He praised the Governor’s policies, including the implementation of the new minimum wage and the gradual clearance of salary arrears left by the previous APC administration, which have significantly improved the lives of civil servants in Osun State.

In his keynote address, Mr. Badmus Olalekan Phoenix,the Special Assistant to the Governor on digital Media,who is also the guest lecturer, spoke extensively on the effective use of social media and self-improvement, encouraging members of the Grassroots Media Team to remain steadfast in their advocacy for Governor Adeleke’s administration.

Mr Badmus Olalekan Phoenix commends the effort of Osun grassroot Media Team for the support giving to the current administration under the able leadership of the working Governor,His Excellency Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke.

However,the guest lecturer also highlighted the purpose and the impact of the media in the recent political activities and why media effort contribute to the success of any political party or candidates.

The convener of Osun grassroot media team, Comrade Samakin Abdul-Jeleel Abiodun expressed appreciation for members’ resilience amid opposition propaganda. He urged them to stay focused as the state approaches another election cycle, assuring that all dedicated members will benefit from the Imole Administration.

Finally, Hon. Adisa Akintegbe, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Affairs, encouraged participants to take their roles seriously, maintain integrity in their online engagements, and stay connected to their local communities.

The conference was attended by several government aides and members of the grassroot Media Team across the local government of Osun State.

Signed: Osun Grassroots Media Team