Osun Defender Online Version of January 24, 2025

How Adeleke’s Road Construction How

How Adeleke’s Road Construction Distorted $106m Ilesa Water Project

THE ongoing Eraja Square road dualisaon in Ilesa by the Osun State Government has ruined the $106m Ilesa Water Project, OSUN DEFENDER reliable gathered.

The ongoing road dualisa on has caused lots of setbacks to the water project, with residents blaming the state government for priori sing the road over the water project and keeping watch while the mul -million dollar project is being ruined.

OSUN DEFENDER visited Ilesa on Wednesday and it was observed that the laid pipes have been exhumed to pave way for the ongoing road dualisa on.

At the Ilesa Central Mosque, some of the removed pipes were packed at the front of the mosque with some traders using them as seats.

From the central mosque to Ilesa Grammar School, Okesa Road, the removed water pipes were seen on both sides of the road, with some already vandalized.

At the front of Ilesa Grammar School, eight big pipes were observed, with some of them already broken.

The same thing was observed at First Bank, Ilesa, where some of the removed pipes were seen by the roadside.

Also, the medium observed that the ongoing construc on has caused damage to the fiber cables installed by telecommunica on companies in the area.

Speaking with OSUN DEFENDER, a resident of Ilesa, Olaiya Jamiu, frowned at the silence of stakeholders in the town on the destruc on and abandonment of the water project.

Jamiu said the state government ought to have found a way to construct the road without affec ng the water project.

“It is so disheartening. Look at the amount that

has been spent on this project; it has been a waste because the state government decided to priori se road construc on over the water project.

“I’m not saying the road construc on is bad, but the government ought to have looked for a way to construct the road without causing damage to the water project. This is taxpayers’ money going to waste.

“Another sad part is that stakeholders in the community are not speaking up about this. How can one project lead to the death of another? This is not good enough, and we can’t move forward as a na on if this is the pay we squander taxpayers money,” Jamiu told OSUN DEFENDER

Another resident who spoke with the medium, Mrs Yemisi Oladimeji, said some of the removed pipes had been stolen.

Mrs Oladimeji noted that the state government might need to spend more on the water project if it decided to con nue with it, ques oning if the government did not think it through before star ng the ongoing road dualisa on.

According to her, “If you observed very well, some of the pipes have been moved from the main road to the street. That is the way people took them

and sold them off

“If the water project will con nue which I’m not sure of, the state government will have to spend more than the money budgeted for the project ini ally due to the damage to the pipes and the stolen ones.

“The government did not do well on this. I am a fan of Adeleke, but this is not what is expected of a government who have, in different fora, blamed the past administra on in the state for mismanagement. What are we to call what is playing out in Ilesa?”

OSUN DEFENDER reports that the over 7-yearold water project has generated controversies, which led to the suspension of the Project Consultant, Mrs Tawa Williams, by the state government.

Also, the state governor, Ademola Adeleke, in December 2022, directed a ‘full-scale probe’ of the water project following what it described as a slow pace of work.

The governor had noted that there was no progress on the project despite reported disbursement of N10bn and another $28m on it.

The direc ve was sequel to the interim report of the State’s Assets Recovery Commi ee, Chaired by Dr Tokunbo Salami which

recommended immediate suspension of the water project to stop further squandering of loans secured on it.

According to the interim report of the Salami-led commi ee, “the Islamic Development Bank agreed to fund the project to the tune of $65m while the Federal Government provided $41.94m.

“So far, a total of $27.073m has been expended from the IDB loan of $65 million, leaving a balance of the sum of $37.926m.

“From the Federal Government loan of $41.94m which the consultant had reportedly converted to N12bn, the sum of N10bn had been purportedly spent on the project, leaving a balance of N2bn.”

The commi ee noted that despite the huge sums of $27.073m and N10bn already spent so far, the Ilesa water project is not yet func onal and the good people of Ilesa are yet to access any water.

The medium gathered that before the suspension of the project, the re culaon component and laying of water pipes had been completed.

Ilesa Water Project Is Doomed - Engineer

Speaking with OSUN DEFENDER, one of the engineers handling the work who does not want his name in print, said the project has been disrupted and doomed, saying it has suffered major setbacks over me.

According to him, the project was almost completed as the pipes which cost N12 billion as at then exchange rate, have been laid across Ilesa communies.

The engineer said the last thing on the project is the treatment of the water, which is to be handled by the Islamic Development Bank.

He added that the Osun State government is yet to commit any dime to the project.

According to him, “The Osun State Government is yet to contribute a dime to the project. The contractor then is a friend of former president Muhammadu Buhari, who used her relaonship to secure a grant amoun ng to $41.9 million from the Federal Government.

“Also, there’s another loan of N65 billion from the Islamic Development Bank. But their money has not been exhausted. We only spent about N30 billion from the loan. The balance is s ll available.

“The FG is not happy about the delay in the comple on of the project because they stood as the guarantor for the loan. I learnt that the pipes have been exhumed due to the ongoing road project in Ilesa, while some have been vandalized.

“That would cost another money. The state government ought to have sort for the advice of experts who laid the pipes when they were about to commence the road construc on. They should have been the ones to exhume it properly and relaid it.

“The project is of three stages; the federal government handled the laying of the pipes from the water source at Kajola to Ilesa communi es while the Islamic Development Bank would handle the treatment of the water and the state would handle the distribu on of water to every household. But when they didn’t have the money, the FG took over for the distri-

bu on. The last thing we were wai ng for them was for the FG to correct some defects from the water source and for the IDB to do the water treatment.”

Reac ng, the state government through the Commissioner For Water Resources & Energy, Hon. Olufemi Oroniyi refuted the claim that the project has been stalled.

Oroniyi in a telephone interview with OSUN DEFENDER yesterday a ributed the delay in its compleon to ongoing legal ba le between the state government and the sacked consultant.

He said: “Li ga on has been the major reason the project has stalled. The contractor handling the project took the state government to court when her appointment was terminated but we won. Now we are at the appeal court and we are wai ng for the judgement.

“When that is sorted we will mobilise back to site and see to the realisaon of the project. Also, the mining ac vi es in Ilesa have also contributed to the pollu on of the water source. We can con nue un l the mining ac vi es stopped.

“The water will take up to three to six months before we can start distribu on. We have approved the Federal Ministry of Mine to revoke the license of this miners if truly they issued it to them.

“We have to exhumed the pipes due to the ongoing road project in Ilesa but we will relocate them when the road is concluded. The exhuma on was done roughly in the first place but we are monitoring now. We are going to replace them all.

“The federal ministry of water resources has promised to help us on the re installa on of the water pipes. We know it’s capital intensive because most of the machine used in installing the pipes are imported.

“Governor Ademola Adeleke is keen to complete the project because Government is con num even though the IDB loan was secured by the former administra on of governor Rauf Aregbesola. But we are all interested in making the project a reality.”

Reassessing Project Management

“The project which kicked off during the former administration of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola was done in a good faith and should be jealousy guided by the present administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke”

WATER

“ said the creator of Afrobeat Fela Ku “no get enemy”. As usual he was on the ball!

Water is the most essen al of commodies, humans perish without it. The Ilesa water project which is the largest project in the history of Nigeria to have been facilitated by any state government reflects a human necessity with a muldimensional impact. Those who ini ated it deserve kudos.

Unfortunately, the issue of project management or mismanagement is now coming to the fore. Disturbingly, there are also now very serious issues of environmental concerns. Environmental impact issues must be at the heart of any infrastructure project, in a water project it must be overriding.

Furthermore, with foreign lenders involved there must be concerns about damage to the es ga on country reputa on.

All of the missteps pointed out in our excellent inves gaon could have been avoided with proper project management executed under the oversight of civil society an well as parliamentary scruny.

Proper project management will also have included more Per-

formance and should also have included a Performance Planning Budget System to minimise cost distor ons and loss of focus. This must now be done as part of the overall readjustment of the project. The project is too fundamental to go awry.

Meanwhile, the state government before embarking on the Ilesa road construc on ought to have made provision for the reloca on of the pipes. Also, the agency who handled the installaon of the pipes ought to have been contacted for the exhuma on of the pipes instead of how it been roughly removed.

Also, the illegal miners who through their ac vi es, polluted the water source should be sanc oned by the appropriate quarter. The should avoid pu ng thousands of lives of the people at risk.

The project which was kicked off during the former administraon of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola was done in a good faith and should be jealousy guided by the present administra on of Governor Ademola Adeleke.

The Federal Government who stood as the Guarantor for the project’s loan with the Islamic Development Bank would be bi ered if the project didn’t come to frui on.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2025 - THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2025

Issues & Policy

Time For Trailers, Trucks And Tankers To Turn To Night Travel’s Now Or Never

ISamson Oluga

T is astonishingly paradoxical that driving or travelling in broad/bright daylight now gives road users trauma c nightmare experience. This is basically because of the preponderance of heavy-duty vehicles viz trailers, trucks and tankers carrying weighty industrial machines, petroleum commodi es, livestock and agricultural produce among others. Oil, gas or petrol is tankered daily from one part of the country to some other near and distant loca ons across the na on. Many cizens believe the heavy movement of the heavy-duty vehicles on the Nigerian roads especially in the day is adversely affec ng innocent road users and the physical environment in various ways just as it is nega vely impac ng on the roads that gulped billions of tax payers’ money to be constructed by the governments at various levels over the years. It is against this background that many people believe that restric ng the travels or journeys of heavy-duty vehicles to night only will benefit the na on and the ci zens a great deal in various ways. Some of the ra onales or jus fica ons for advoca ng this revolu onary or transformaonal transporta on idea are cri cally explicated sequen ally below with appropriate comprehension aiding illustra ons.

The lifespans of major roads and highways will be lengthened if heavy-duty vehicles are restricted to only night travels and journeys as done in many already developed or fast developing na ons of the world. This is simply because the roads and highways are in the hardest states in the night when the weather is pre y cool and the impacts of the trailers, trucks and tankers moving and carrying very heavy loads will not be felt so much on the roads during the wee hours of the day. However, the case is different in daylight especially in the a ernoon when many of the heavy-duty trucks now like to be on the roads compe ng with other road users. This is because the heat of the hot sunny a ernoon will impact seriously on the physical and chemical components of the roads such that they won’t be as strong or hard as in the nigh me. This is one of the reasons why areas frequently plied by these heavy-duty vehicles or where they park when not journeying get damaged very quickly. That’s why there are visible cracks, potholes and modula ons on the surfaces of such roads and people will be wondering how they get there. These get worsened when or where there’s poor maintenance culture and next to nothing is usually done in many cases to repair road damages in good me. Those responsible for such tasks seem to forget the proverbial saying that a s tch in me saves nine or more.

The gridlock resul ng from the mass movement of heavyduty vehicles on major roads and highways will significantly nosedive if the movement of the these class of vehicles is limited to nigh me. This is simply because they are predominantly the ones responsible for very severe road or high traffic disrup ons across the length and breadth of major towns and ci es of the various states of the na on. This is mainly due to the fact that many of them don’t ensure their vehicles are in perfect condions and they load far more than capaci es making it pre y difficult to control the vehicles in some places and which usually lead to vehicular breakdowns in least expected areas of the roads or highways. When these vehicles breakdown on very busy roads or major highways, traffic will be hindered or narrowed and roads will be blocked before saying Jack Robinson or spelling Wole Soyinka. This is usually worsened by the fact that many other heavyduty vehicles will equally get stuck on the roads or highways in quick succession since they usually move in short or long rows of livestock, petroleum and other load carriers or drivers. The gridlocks of some major roads or highways can take several hours or a whole day to be disconnected, hence, some people have missed their local

“The implementation and enforcement of the idea or policy of making heavy-duty vehicles to travel or journey strictly in the night will make us to be on the same page with other great nations that are at forefront of the introduction and execution of the novel idea or policy”

and interna onal flights and appointments while being held in very long traffic. Some people have even been robbed at gunpoint while some have lost their lives when being rushed to the hospital to receive urgent medical a en on just because they got stuck in gridlocks. It will reduce incessant road havocs or accidents a number of which are the handiworks of reckless or careless heavy-duty vehicle drivers. They drive with false pride and see themselves as the lion kings of the roads and highways that other road users must respect and leave the roads for when proudly moving. They have the strong belief that they will be the least to be affected when there are road or highway accidents even when these occur as a result of their recklessness. So, when a typical heavyduty vehicle spins, rigmaroles or summersaults on the road or highway, it is most likely the driver sleeps off having driven for hours day and night without res ng or there is an head-on collision with another heavy-duty vehicle. It may also be due to the mistake made by a trainee driver who loses control and goes off the road or highway while learning or perfec ng driving on the road or highway as they usually do caring less about the lives of others. So, one way to abate the spate of ghastly heavy-duty-vehicle related road or highway accidents is to confine their movements to nigh me when they will mostly be the ones on the roads or highways and other few night travellers. The simple equa on is that the more/higher the number of reckless heavyduty vehicle drivers on the roads or highways in day me, the more or higher the spate of road or highway accidents caused by heavy-duty vehicle drivers and vice versa. This is in tandem with the Pareto Op mality Principle that posits that for a given variable, situa on or phenomenon to increase another corresponding variable, situa on or phenomenon must decrease and for one factor or condi on to skyrocket or appreciate another corresponding factor or condi on must nosedive or depreciate cereris paribus.

Restric ng the movement of heavy-duty vehicles like trucks, trailers and tankers to nigh me is also advantageous in the sense that it will go a long way in helping to decongest some very busy roads or highways in major towns or ci es of the federa on. Something similar to this was experimented years back in Lagos when the vehicle registra on numbers were used to determine which vehicles would be on the roads on given days, hence, vehicles would only be on the roads every other days. So, a day could be for those whose registra on numbers start or end with even numbers while the following day would be for those whose registra on numbers start or end with odd numbers. The goal of that traffic control experimenta on was to proffer a solu on to the ever lingering problem of road conges on in Lagos that has been managing the popula on of a na on within a state.

OSUN DEFENDER

Publisher – Moremi Publishing House Ltd.

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Asst. Features Editor – Kazeem Badmus

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Produc on Controller – Petkola Taiwo Ibitowa

OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Promise Point Building, Opposite

Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State.

ISSN : 0794-8050

The pilot study didn’t work and couldn’t have worked where people always think ahead of policy makers to see how to break or fault every guideline or regula on. Mere ge ng second cars would make those who wanted to drive everyday then not to make the idea to work as it would have worked if the idea was not even challenged from the viewpoint of the law or human rights. However, there’s a precedent of na ons that have restricted movement of heavy-duty vehicles to nightme, hence, legisla ng a similar thing at the na onal or state level should not be problema c especially if it is done to ensure safety of lives and property among others.

Telephone : 0809-301-9152

Website : www.osundefender.com/index.php e-mail : osundefenderhq@gmail.com osundefenderbank@gmail.com

All correspondence to the above email addresses.

•Read full article on www.osundefender.com

•Dr Samson Oluga Dean, School of General & Administrative Studies The Federal Polytechnic, Ede

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2025 - THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2025

How Mining Activities Induced Influx Of Suspected Terrorists In Osun

THE influx of suspected terrorists who are ISWAP and Boko Haram mem-

bers in Osun State has been a ributed to the mining ac vi es in Ilesa communi es, OSUN DEFENDER gathered. This was revealed by

the state Commandant of the Western Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, Dr. Adekunle Omoyele during the News Point program or-

ganized by the Osun NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel on Tuesday.

According to Omoyele, most of the foreigners use to drop

missioner for

and

Bankole, State Chairman,

the Mandatory Continuing Profesional Development

Ifon/Ilobu: Adeleke Yet To Establish Committee To End Deadly Communal Clashes

DESPITE the deadly clashes between the Ilobu and Ifon communi es in Osun State which has le many dead and property destroyed, the state government is yet to establish a commi ee to provide a las ng solu on to the issue.

OSUN DEFENDER reports that the latest of the deadly communal clash over a disputed land was the killing of a s polytechnic student with many injured, last week.

Following the incident, the state government, through the Commissioner for Informa on and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, announced a curfew in the two communi es.

Also, security personnel, including the Army, Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, were deployed to restore order.

However, it was gathered that the state government has not inaugurated a commi ee that will end the deadly recurring communal clashes.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Samuel Ojo, while giving an update on the security situa on in the affected areas, said the government is planning to establish a commi ee to see into the ma er.

Ojo stated that calm has been restored but emphasised that the curfew would remain in place un l peace is fully achieved.

According to him, “The government is cri cally reviewing the situa on and working towards bringing the two communi es to an agreement.

“A new, inclusive commi ee will soon be unveiled, comprising stakeholders from both communi es, their monarchs, and senior

members of the state government, including the judiciary.”

He further stressed that the curfew would only be li ed a er the commi ee is cons tuted and peace is firmly reestablished.

In a related development, the World Ins tute for Peace, a non-governmental organisa on, has urged the Osun State Government to address the root causes of the conflict.

In a statement by its Execu ve Director,

Lamina Kamiludeen, the group called for the inclusion of conflict resolu on experts and humanitarian professionals in the committee, cau oning against reliance on poli cally exposed individuals.

“The government has the authority and resources to resolve this crisis. A robust, expert-driven commi ee should be priori zed to ensure sustainable peace between Ifon and Ilobu,” the statement read.

How Fake News Almost Get Me Into Trouble - Segun Olowookere

SEGUN Olowookere who was last December pardoned by Governor Ademola Adeleke a er 14 years on death row at the Correc onal Centre has refuted the claim that he commited a fresh crime a er his release. Olowookere while speaking with OSUN DEFENDER yesterday described the claim as misleading, false and lie from the pit of hell, saying he has never commited any crime in his life. According to him, those spreading the news are enemies of

progress and mischief makers.

“I was worried reading again from different blogs that I have been arrested again a er I was pardoned by Governor Ademola Adeleke. This is not true. It was evident that I did not commited the crime which I spent 14 years for in jail. Why would I then go commit a fresh crime a er I was given second chance by the Governor.

“I want to implore all Nigerians, Journalists and Bloggers to always verify their informaon because publishing it. The person that was sent back to the prison was Sunday Omisakin

not Segun Olowookere. I wasn’t the only person pardoned by the Governor. We are 53. Omisakin is among us.”

“Since the news broke out, I have received series of calls and text messages from different people to ascertain my present situa on.

“I want to tell all my lovers around the world that I’m not in the prison. I’m doing fine, going round to make a meaningful life for myself and to make you all of you that stood for me throughout the 14 years journey proud.”

from trucks and vehicles at Ilesa expressway to take up menial jobs including mining of gold.

But in response to the infiltra on of the suspected terrorists, he said Amotekun has heightened security measures by implementing digital surveillance across the state and as well introduced a tollfree emergency number, 293, for residents to report emergencies or provide security-related ps as part of its efforts to enhance public safety

The Commandant also announced plans to recruit an addi onal 1,000 personnel to reinforce the exis ng 320 opera ves currently deployed across the state.

“We realise that most of those foreigners use to drop from trucks and vehicles at Ilesa expressway to take up menial jobs including mining of gold. But we are on top of the situa on, Osun residents should not panic because we are ahead of them.

“We are taking proac-

ve measures to ensure the security of lives and property in Osun, and the recruitment drive will bolster our capacity to tackle emerging security challenges,” Omoyele stated. He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by repor ng any suspicious ac vi es through the designated emergency channels.

“Governor Ademola Adeleke had approved our proposal and the recruitment will start next month. This will help us to fight crime in the state especially with the invasion of ISWAP and Boko Haram. We are on red alert, criminal elements must stay away from our state.

He revealed that the ou it has deployed technology in tackling crimes and its tendencies in Osun State, saying, “We’re using digital surveillance technology to monitor the state. We urge resident to call 293 in case of emergency, it is toll free.”

THE Osun State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, has called for informa on on a 15-yearold girl, Quadija Abimbola, found wandering at Owode-Ede area, Osun State.

The command, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Kehinde Adeleke, a copy obtained by OSUN DEFENDER, noted that the young girl was found roaming the streets around 1:00 a.m. on January 19, 2025 by a good samaritan.

The statement further disclosed that the good samaritan took the girl to the OwodeEde division of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

“According to Quadija, she traveled with her mother, Mrs. Aishat Abimbola, and three siblings from Lagos to Osun State for New Year’s celebra ons.

“A er the fes vi es, her mother took her to Owode-Ede market to sell detergent, promising to pick her up a er the day’s sales, however, her mother failed to return.

“Despite efforts to locate Quadija’s parents or rela ves, all a empts have been unsuccessful.

“NSCDC Osun State Command is appealing to anyone with informa on about Quadija’s family to come forward and assist in reuniting her with her loved ones,” the statement added.

After Osun Defender Report, CDHR Calls For Urgent Rehabilitation As Pardoned Convict Steals TV

Yusuf Oketola

THE Osun State chapter of the Commi ee for the Defense of Human Rights, CDHR, has called on Nigerians to pressure the Ademola Adeleke administra on to urgently rehabilitate the fi y-two inmates he pardoned in December 2024.

The call is coming few days a er OSUN DEFENDER report that Sunday Omisakin, one out of the 53 inmates pardoned by Governor Adeleke returned to crime and is presently remanded at the Ile-Ife Correc onal Service facility.

Omisakin was on Friday, January 3, 2025, arrested for breaking into a building and he is now facing a two-count charge of stealing and burglary

OSUN DEFENDER recalls that Governor Adeleke pardoned 53 inmates in December 2024 exercising his preroga ve of mercy.

Two out of the 53 inmates pardoned by Governor Adeleke were Segun Olowookere and Sunday Morakinyo, who had been sentenced to

death for the of fowl and eggs more than a decade ago.

The Osun CDHR made this call in a statement by its Chairman, Emmanuel Olowu on Monday in Òṣogbo.

A copy of the statement made available to OSUN DEFENDER reads:

“On January 6, 2025, the CDHR formally communicated our concerns to Governor Adeleke, highligh ng the potenal risks associated with the release of these individuals without any form of rehabilita on even though the Administra on of Criminal Jus ce Law 2015 and Osun State Administraon of Criminal Jus ce Law 2018 mandated a rehabilita on exercise for pardon prisoners.

“It should be noted that we copied crucial stakeholders: The Attorney General of Osun State, the Chief Judge of Osun State, the Controller of the Nigeria Correc onal Service, NCS, Osun State Command, the Na onal Directorate of Employment, NDE, Osun State, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency in Nigeria,

•Founder, Children of Africa

during

SMEDAN, Osun State, the Network of NGOs in Osun, NETNOS, and the Osun Civil Socie es Coali on, with the intent that all stakeholders will pressure the Osun State Government to commence the rehabilita on process.

and Values

society and the image of the Osun State Government as a whole.

Hon.

charity walk 2025 in support of Orphanages and Special Schools in Òsogbo, recently This incident illustrates the urgent need for effec ve rehabilita on of the remaining Five-Two pardon inmates as that remains the only means to prevent re-offence and ensure community safety.

“Regre ably, to date, there has been no response from Governor Adeleke regarding our le er, which poses a great danger to the

“The appeal is highlighted by a recent incident involving one of the pardoned convicts, Sunday Omisakin, who, on January 3, 2025, was arrested for breaking into a building; he is now facing a two-count charge of stealing and burglary and has been remanded at the Ilesha Correc onal Service.

Entertainment

Odunlade Adekola Reacts As Portable Warns

Him Over Video With Babymama Ashabi

POPULAR Nollywood actor, Odunlade Adekola has reacted to singer Portable’s warning over his viral video with actress Ashabi Simple.

OSUN DEFENDER reports that Portable had confronted Odunlade over his remarks a er the singer’s baby mama, Ashabi, was captured in a video hugging the actor on a movie set.

Teasing Ashabi, Odunlade asked if she took permission from Portable before hugging him.

Feeling offended by his statement, Portable took to Odunlade’s DM to ques on the mo ve behind his remarks and warned him not to disrespect his family.

Reac ng to Portable’s warning, Odunlade clarified that his statement was not

plied; “My brother, good evening. I’m just seeing this. I

love u, and I think you know that. I can never disrespect you or your home. Your family is my family.”

Apprecia ng the response, Portable expressed his respect for the actor.

“I respect you, boss. I really appreciate you. God bless you.”

Salo Calls Naira Marley Out For Allegedly Shooting Him In Lekki

POPULAR Nigerian TikToker and social media personality, Oloba Salo, has called out singer Naira Marley for shoo ng him in Lekki.

The TikToker made the allega on three months a er he was shot mul ple mes in the Lekki area of Lagos State.

silence in a viral TikTok video on social media, Salo claimed to have been shot three mes and accused Naira Marley and his boys of the shoo ng.

trend?”

As of the me of this report, Naira Marley is yet to respond to the allega ons.

“The CDHR urges relevant stakeholders to ac vely pressure the Osun State Government to priori ze the rehabilita on of those pardoned now and create

with volun-

interven on programs that will address the underlying issues leading them into criminal acts because failure to act will not only jeopardize public safety but reflect an omission of the responsibility that comes with gran ng pardons which PART 45 – PAROLE 46 sec on 468 sub-sec on 2 of the Administra on of Criminal Jus ce Law 2015 states.”

Why Nigerian Politicians Should Wear Traditional Attires – Ebuka

MEDIA personality

out of the country,” he wrote via X.

OSUN DEFENDER recalls that Salo was hospitalized in October 2024 a er sustaining injuries to his legs. However, breaking his

“I just chose to be quiet all this while. It was Naira Marley and his boys that shot me in Lekki. I have the evidence. They shot three bullets at me. He can come and shoot me again. To people saying I just want to trend, is it Marley, using past glory, that I will use to

Ebuka ObiUchendu has advocated for Nigerian poli cians and public officials to wear tradi onal ou its.

The fashion icon said Nigerian policians should dress in tradi onal atres, especially when they travel abroad.

“I think Nigerian politicians/officials should wear tradional a re even more when they’re meant to make jest of Portable or his family. The actor re-

Ebuka is one of Nigeria’s most reputable fashion icons, having thrilled fans with his impressive fashion choices as the host of the Big Brother Naija reality show over the years.

Nigerian fashion is currently making waves globally, with local fabrics such as Ankara becoming increasingly popular in the UK and other countries.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2025 - THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2025

Osun Poly Final Year Student Allegedly Murdered Inside Hotel Room

Afinal year student of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, Alex Tosin has been found dead inside a hotel room in Osogbo.

According to findings by OSUN DEFENDER, Tosin was found in a pool of his own blood with deep cuts on his body inside Eminence Hotel, Asubiaro area of the state capital.

It was learnt that the deceased has been in the hotel since December 24, 2024 before he died on Monday, January 6, 2025.

Speaking with the medium on the incident yesterday, the General Secretary, Na onal Associa on of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest Olatunde Aboke, said there’s a lot of conspiracies on the students’ death while urging the police to dig deep into the ma er and bring the perpetrators to book.

According to Aboke, the ma er was reported at Oke-baale police staon where the police told them it was a case of suicide. He said the police told them the student was already in coma before he was rushed to Osun State University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo.

He said: “There are a lot of conspiracies surrounding Tosin’s death. Stains of blood was found on the floor of the room where he lodged. We were told at the police sta on that it killed himself which we did not believe. His neck was almost cut off when we went to see his corpse at the mortuary.”

Also, in a statement made available to OSUN DEFENNDER yesterday announcing the death of their colleague, the NANS ZONE D Secretary wrote: “With a heavy heart, the leadership of the Na onal Associa on of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest announces the tragic death of one of our own, Alex Tosin Pelumi, a final-year student of Microbiology, Osun State Polytechnic (OSPOLY)*, who lost his life at Eminence Hotel, Osogbo on Monday 6th of January, 2024 under suspicious circumstances.

“Upon receiving this devasta ng news, NANS Southwest, duly represented by the Secretary

General, Com. Olutunde Aboke (O’Des ny), promptly a ended to the ma er. We visited the police sta on handling the case to demand a thorough inves ga on into the incident. We strongly emphasized the need for true jus ce and made it clear that those responsible must be brought to book without delay.

“We urge the police

and all relevant authories to conduct a deep and transparent invesga on to uncover the truth surrounding this unfortunate incident. Jus ce must prevail, and no stone should be le unturned in ensuring that those involved face the full wrath of the law.

“In addi on, we call on the en re student community to remain

vigilant and conscious of their movements and ac ons at all mes. It is essen al to priori ze personal safety and stay away from risky environments that could jeopardize their well-being.

NANS Southwest assures the students of OSPOLY and the Nigerian student community at large that we will not relent un l jus ce is served. We stand firm

Campus Review Campus Review

in our resolve to ensure that the ma er is handled legally and appropriately.”

Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Rela ons Officer, SP Yemisi Opalola told OSUN DEFENDER that the suspects (hotel workers) has been arrested and detained in their custody.

“The suspects (hotel workers) are s ll in our custody. The inves gaon is s ll ongoing,” Opalola stressed.

How OAU Students Honoured Lecturer With Gifts For Dedication

Aheartwarming viral video captured the moment when students of Obafemi Awolowo University showered their lecturer, Dr. Olagunju, with gi s to show apprecia on for his dedica on and hard work.

The video, shared on TikTok by user #doxaleey on Tuesday, shows students standing up one by one to present their gi s to Dr. Olagunju, who

Crime

was visibly surprised and smiling throughout the gesture.

In the cap on accompanying the video, #doxaleey wrote, “We wanted to express our hear elt gra tude to Dr. Olagunju for his excep onal dedica on and hard work this semester, and we couldn’t come up with a be er idea than this.

“Despite the challenges of teaching Parts 1-4 alone, Dr. Olagunju

has consistently demonstrated his commitment to our educa on and well-being. His efforts have not gone unnoced, and we’re deeply apprecia ve of the posive impact he’s had on our learning experience.

“We’re grateful to have had the opportunity to show our apprecia on today and wish we could do more to express our thanks. Sir, we love you, Dr. Olagunju.”

OAU Student Killing: Appeal Court Upholds Adedoyin’s Death Sentence

THE Court of Appeal si ng in Akure, the Ondo State capital has upheld the death sentence of a popular hotel owner, Dr Ramon Adedoyin, who was found guilty in the murder case of an exMaster’s student of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Timothy Adegoke.

According to the court’s judgment on Thursday, the appellate court noted that the judgment by the Osun State High Court which

sentenced Adedoyin to death s ll stands.

The appeal court had reserved the judgment on October 29, 2024.

The judgement read in parts, “The judgment of the High Court of Osun State stands. Adedoyin’s appeal is dismissed in part. The Court of Appeal held that Adedoyin was properly convicted and sentenced to death.”

It further noted that the “Order of forfeiture of Hilton Hotel quashed and set aside. Order of educa on scholarship to children of Timothy

by Adedoyin and others quashed and set aside.”

was found dead in November 2021 at Adedoyin’s Hilton

Court Remands Man For Allegedly Killing Osun Bishop

AMagistrate Court in Osogbo has remanded a 42-yearold man, Wale Ogunsanmi, for allegedly stabbing to death a bishop and founder of Rapture Empowerment Interna onal Church, Shina Olaribigbe.

The Osun State Police Command, through its Criminal Inves ga on Department, CID, arraigned Ogunsanmi on a single count of murder.

According to the charge sheet, marked MoS/19c/2025 and signed by B. Adaraloye, the head of the legal/prosecu on sec on of the state CID, the crime occurred on January 1, 2025, at approximately 8:55 p.m. in the Fan Milk area of Ajegunle, Osogbo.

The charge reads: “That you, Wale Ogunsanmi, on the 1st of January, 2025, at about 8:55 p.m., at Fan Milk Area of Aje-

gunle, Osogbo, in the Osogbo Magisterial District, did unlawfully stab one Shina Olaribigbe to death and thereby commi ed an offence contrary to and punishable under Sec on 319 of the Criminal Code, Cap 33, Volume 1, Laws of Osun State of Nigeria, 2002.”

The court did not take the defendant’s plea due to lack of jurisdic on.

Presiding Magistrate A. O. Odeleye ordered Ogunsanmi to be remanded in Ilesa Correc onal Centre pending further proceedings and adjourned the case.

OSUN DEFENDER had earlier reported that Ogunsanmi allegedly attacked the bishop a er finding him in the company of his estranged wife.

The suspect’s wife, an interpreter at the deceased’s church, had reportedly been separated from Ogunsanmi for a year due to marital disputes.

The spokesperson

for the Osun State Police Command, Yemisi Opalola said, “The bishop was in the woman’s residence when her husband arrived and stabbed him several mes. It is believed the suspect acted out of suspicion that the pastor was having an affair with his wife.”

Opalola also confirmed that Ogunsanmi and his wife had been living apart for about a year.

The bishop had reportedly been involved in media ng before the separa on.

On the night of the incident, Ogunsanmi allegedly broke into his wife’s house and a acked the bishop, who was in the bedroom.

Police from the Dugbe Division had arrived promptly at the scene, arrested the suspect, and recovered the weapon.

The deceased’s body was deposited at the UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital Mortuary, Osogbo, for an autopsy.

Family Accuses Osun Monarch Of Selling Inheritance, Calls For Govt Intervention

MEMBERS of the Petelua family of Ilesa have accused the Olowasere of Owasere in Atakumosa East Local Government of Osun State, Oba Oluwadare Ayoola, of selling their family inheritance.

The family members also said they have removed the head of the family, Chief Jimoh Awe, as the Petelua of Ilesa, alleging him of conniving with the Olowasere to take over their family inheritance.

The chairman of Petelua family, Elder Agboola Opesan, while speaking with newsmen at a press conference in Ilesa on Saturday, alleged that Oba Oluwadare, who was installed by the family, has sold part of their farmland and converted some to his own.

He alleged that

members of the family who ques oned Oba Oluwadare and Chief Awe were arrested and locked up in police custody.

Opesan also said the royalty paid by tenants on the family land situated at Owasere has been hijacked by the Olowasere in support of Chief Awe.

He noted that despite a court judgement that the royalty should be paid to the family as the righ ul owner of the land, the monarch persisted with collec ng the royalty and threatened those who ques oned his decision.

Opesan urged the state government and Owa Obokun of Ilesa to wade in on the issue before it degenerates into a breakdown of law and order.

He said, “The posion of the head of the family and a king in a community is to hold the

property and protect the life of their kinsmen and community members and certainly not convert same to personal use or self-enrichment.

“Chief Jimoh Awe and Oba Oluwadare Ayoola have criminally conspired together and assume the posi on of the aggressors and land grabbers, interlopers,

and arch enemies of the family.

“This conspiracy and the of our ancestral inheritance are despicable, grossly inhumane, morally corrupt, and tradi onally beli ling of a tradi onal tle holder in Ijesaland.

“We have resolved to bring to the no ce of the state governor, Sen-

Opinion

ator Ademola Adeleke, and the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Hastrup, that Chief Awe has been removed as the Petelua of Ilesa, and we also want Oba Ayoola to be removed as the Owasere. We are for peace and we want the concerned authori es to wade in on the ma er urgently.”

Efforts to get the reac on of the monarch was unsuccessful as his phone number was switched off

Meanwhile, Chief Awe, when contacted said the allega ons were not true.

“All the allega ons are not true. They are trying to spoil my name,” he said.

NPA: Driving Reforms, Delivering Results - A Year Of Mentorship And Service To The People

THE process of procrea on as explained scien fically and scripturally explains that the opportunity to make the cut of life is divine and a rare chance given to serve God and impact humanity. Many a me when I look at humanity and existence in detail during my daily prayers, my assessment of every happening/ occurrence around me draws back to the benevolence of my creator on his servants with myself inclusive, gran ng us the wherewithal to face life, excel in it in all ramificaons, and s ll return to Him in the most worthy form to be a par cipant in His paradise. For the fact that not all of His servants are granted the opportunity to make exploits in life, but being among the few He chooses to be recipi-

ents of His favours must forever heap His praises to the highest heavens. I say Alhamdulilah.

On January 4, 2024, President Bola Tinubu approved and announced the appointment of some Execu ve Directors for agencies under the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy - Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and Nigerian Marime Administra on and Safety Agency. Luckily, I was one of those privileged in the list, to later become the Execu ve Director (Marine and Operaons) of the NPA, through the support and strong RECOMMENDATION of my mentor, leader and boss, H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola - The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Precisely a year ago today, January 22, I resumed work and spent the first few weeks receiving guidance and tutelage from those I met on ground and the former MD of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Mr. Mohammed Bello Koko. I resumed work to drive the mandate of our leader, the Honourable Minister drawing from the huge inspira on of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The last one year has

been full of stories; from every regard - Poli cs, Governance, Societal Impact, Community Development, Personal Development and many more. I cannot forget in a hurry the wild jubila on and the gale of prayers and celebra on galore that greeted my appointment and subsequent resump on. I was astonished when I saw the huge crowd that welcomed me back to Osogbo, on my first trip back to the state a er my appointment. I cannot thank our people both in Osogbo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the good people of Osun State, enough for their gi and depth of prayers from last year ll date. It has been love all the way. May Allah con nue to bless and enrich our lives.

With the guidance of our leader and mentor, H.E. Adegboyega Oyetola who gave all of us performance bonds, we all swung to work and to the glory of God, we have been able to put in place strategies and policy ideas on how to reform and strengthen the Marine Industry in Nigeria for be er and opmum performance. Heartwarming the most is that almost all of our partners and clients at the level of NPA have complied with the Renewed Hope

Agenda and are following suit which has increased in a great deal our annual turnover and will con nue to get be er.

Since joining the services of the Nigerian Ports Authority, we have deployed experience and burning desire for the success of President Tinubu led administra on’s renewed hope agenda by consolida ng on sustained economic drivers in the following areas:

1. Export Promo on: Our ideas have midwifed efficient opera ons of Export Processing Terminals supervised by the Marine & Opera ons directorate wherein the Authority provides facili es for export consolida on, packaging, documenta on and unhindered access to the ports once the cargo leave the export terminals. The progress recorded is supported by reports from data churned out by Nigerian Na onal Bureau of Sta s cs (NBS) in the last 2 quarters of year 2024 where the country recorded balance of trade supplies for the first me in decades;

2. Stevedoring Operaons: Our diligent interven on and consistent engagement with noncompliant companies, has led to a significant increase in revenue;

3. Shipping and Logis cs: We have turned round the me of vessels within acceptable internaonal prac ce of 2 days for container ships. We have also intensified efforts at ensuring free flow of traffic in and out of the ports of Lagos which has hugely contributed to increased produc vity and growth to the na on’s economy from the Mari me sector;

4. We have also in the last one year succeeded with appreciable growth in mul modalism through the increased uses of inland water ways for cargo redistribu on through Barges as well as an intensified use of rail for same purposes.

5. Stakeholders Engagement: We have engaged all stakeholders - the Port Managers, Trucking Companies, IOCs and all concerned individuals in marime business to key into Mr. President’s agenda. We have through our vast experience in the private sector and business strengthened the bond with our partners all over the world to adapt to the global best prac ces on mari me management, control, upgrade of facilies at our ports, and advance the ease of doing businesses in our sector.

In the last 365 days, I have in the company of

my amiable Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantosho, toured all our facili es across the country, assessed the situa on of things, a ended seminars and workshops in and outside the country to acquire more knowledge as well as contributed hugely to the policy direc on of the NPA which is daily yielding fruits for the sector. Since leadership and posi ons of authority are for solid imprints in the lives of many, this account of stewardship is one that draws inspira on from my mentor’s gospel of societal emancipa on, development oriented governance and people centric vision for prosperity. I cannot but thank everyone who has con nued to share in this vision. By the grace of God and support of all Nigerians, President (Asiwaju) Bola Ahmed Tinubu will succeed.

God Bless Nigeria!!!!

• Engr. Olalekan AbdulRahman Badmus (FNSE), a former Commissioner for Regional Integration and Special Duties who also doubled as the former Supervising Commissioner for Culture, Tourism and Home Affairs in Osun State, is the current Executive Director, Marine and Operations at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and a mentee of H.E Isiaka Adegboyega Oyetola.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2025 - THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2025 VOL. 20 NO 03 www.osundefender.com, email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com

NIGERIA’S economic policies o en feel like trying to fix a leaking roof by locking the doors. With infla on skyrocke ng, the naira losing value, and everyday goods becoming unaffordable, the government’s a empts to impose high tariffs and restrict imports are placing an even heavier burden on ci zens.

While these measures are o en jus fied as efforts to protect the economy and local industries, they raise a cri cal paradox: how can a country discourage imports when it does not produce the goods its people need? This disconnect leaves businesses and households paying higher prices or facing shortages, turning policies meant to protect into barriers that s fle growth and deepen hardship.

Tariffs can be a powerful economic tool when used correctly. For instance, countries like the United States impose high tariffs on certain imported goods to protect thriving domes c industries. When the U.S. government places tariffs on imported cars or steel, it ensures that its domes c producers remain compe ve and retain market share. These measures work because the country has strong, established industries to protect. Nigeria, however, finds itself in a very different posi on. Lacking a robust produc on base in key sectors, imposing high tariffs on products that the country does not produce—such as cassava starch, leather goods, and pharmaceu cals—only makes these essen al goods more expensive for its ci zens.

This dilemma is best illustrated through an analogy. Imagine a father who forbids his family from buying food, clothing, or supplies from outside, locking them in their home despite having no resources inside. The pantry is empty, the garden is barren, and there is no plan to change that. While the family members have the means to go out and purchase what they need, they are forced to make do with nothing. This mirrors Nigeria’s approach to tariffs: restric ng imports without first inves ng in domes c capacity punishes ci zens for seeking what the country cannot provide. Take the cassava industry as an example. Nigeria is the world’s largest producer of cassava, yet it con nues to import cassava starch and ethanol due to insufficient processing facili es. A 10% tariff on imported cassava starch, compounded by addi onal levies and VAT, has made it even more expensive. While the intent is to protect local producers, the absence of adequate infrastructure means businesses and consumers bear the cost without benefi ng from domes c alternaves. The solu on lies not in raising barriers but in building local processing plants capable of mee ng demand.

This pa ern extends to other industries, such as leather produc on. Sokoto produces some of the highest-quality leather in Africa, but most of it is exported as raw hides. Finished leather goods like shoes and bags are then imported back into Nigeria, subject to a 20% tariff. Countries like Italy impose similar tariffs but do so to protect thriving industries. Nigeria, however, lacks the infrastructure, workforce, and investment to produce highquality leather goods domes cally. Instead of fostering growth, these tariffs raise costs for

“A new approach to economic growth is not only possible but essential. Reliable power, reduced reliance on imports, and an environment that encourages innovation are the keys to unlocking Nigeria’s potential”

PERSPECTIVE

By Abidemi Adebamiwa

Before Protecting, Nigeria Must Produce To Prosper

consumers and discourage compe veness. Nigeria’s chronic power crisis amplifies its economic struggles. As highlighted in Ending Nigeria’s Generator Nightmare: A Brighter Future Awaits by Sun Connect News, over 60 million Nigerians depend on generators to power their homes and businesses, spending billions each year on diesel and petrol. This heavy reliance isn’t just draining resources— it’s ac vely driving investors away. Many poten al investors, upon realizing the astronomical costs of self-powering their opera ons, choose to take their business elsewhere. Solving this power problem is far more crical than imposing tariffs; it’s the cornerstone for building an economy where industries can flourish, and innova on can thrive.

Here’s where Okun’s Law comes into play. Okun’s Law states that economic growth and unemployment are inversely related. When GDP grows, unemployment decreases, and when GDP slows, joblessness rises. Nigeria’s sluggish GDP growth, compounded by its power crisis and high produc on costs, has significantly impacted unemployment. Ad-

dressing the power issue isn’t just about making life easier; it’s about boos ng produc vity, enabling businesses to expand, and reducing unemployment. Every boost in GDP growth represents the poten al to create jobs and li millions out of poverty—a direct valida on of Okun’s Law.

Nigeria’s generator dependence is ed to a deeper problem: the vested interests benefi ng from an unreliable power grid. Businesses profi ng from generator and fuel sales make billions annually, crea ng li le incen ve to fix the grid. To break this cycle, the government must priori ze reliable electricity. Inves ng in modernizing the grid, using technologies like drones and sensors to prevent vandalism, and crea ng a robust legal framework to deter sabotage are essen al steps. A stable power supply would reduce costs for businesses, a ract investors, and lay the groundwork for industrial expansion.

To build a compe ve and innova ondriven economy, Nigeria must shi its focus from protec onism to empowerment. Instead of raising tariffs to protect

industries that do not yet exist, the government should incen vize investment in key sectors. For instance, renewable energy offers a transforma ve opportunity. By encouraging businesses to transi on from selling diesel generators to promoting solar panels and ba eries, Nigeria can align private sector interests with na onal goals. Brazil successfully implemented this model, proving that it is possible to turn problems into solu ons with the right policies.

Similarly, Ghana’s concept of “generator-free zones” in areas with stable electricity could be adapted to Nigeria. Starting with major ci es like Lagos and Abuja, the government could create incen ves for businesses and households to adopt renewable energy solu ons. Public campaigns highligh ng the benefits of solar power—quieter, cleaner, and cheaper in the long run—would help drive the transi on. These measures, combined with targeted investments in renewable energy infrastructure, could unlock billions in tax revenue, create thousands of jobs, and boost produc vity across the economy.

Tariffs have their place in economic policy, but they must be backed by a strong founda on of local produc on and innova on. Nigeria’s current strategy, which imposes high costs on consumers without offering alterna ves, only deepens economic hardship. By inves ng in infrastructure, enabling local industries, and fostering innova on, Nigeria can transi on from a consump on-based economy to one built on produc on and self-reliance. This is not about closing borders or punishing ci zens—it is about crea ng an environment where businesses can thrive, and Nigerians have access to affordable goods and services.

•Read full article on www.osundefender.com

•Adebamiwa, a Policy and Political Ana- lyst, writes from Pleasanton, California.

We Can Make It Work

“We, The People...” is how the cons tuon always begins; going forwards to itemise how society is to be organised and governed for the a ainment of security of lives and proper es above all, then freedom and prosperity for all ci zens. The most fundamental ques on in that document is the FORM of that governance structure, and whereas the buck of responsibility stops at the table of the man holding the highest office in land, it is clear that the most essen al responsibility lies with the majority of the ci zens - WE, THE PEOPLE.

In the case of Nigeria, “we, the people” clearly stated at the very crea on of Nigeria that our form of government will be that of Federalism: a voluntary, united federa on of autonomous regions, taking into considera on our diversi es as African peoples living in the Niger Area. Since the incursion of the military in January 1966, and over the course of their lengthy, destruc ve stay, and inescapably due to their unitary chain of command, a centralised, unitary system of government has been imposed upon the country. Each cons tu on supervised by them and wri en at the beginning of every return to civil rule by their cronies con nue to state the truth of the founding ideal, “we, the people... in the Federal Republic of Nigeria” while living a lie as an

over-centralised unitary state.

To worsen a very bad status, our unimagina ve and indolent ruling elite became completely dependent for their extravagant living on oil money receipt from crude sales, consequently killing all forms of creavity, produc vity and industry over a few decades, making poli cs the most lucra ve business from sure access to oil money flowing into the federa on accounts. All other professions and sector of life and the economy come under the mercy of poli cs as poverty and ignorance becomes prevalent.

With the civilian poli cal elites’ refusal to revisit the issue of form of government on account of the benefits they reap from the present unitarised system of oil money control and sharing at na onal, state and local levels, the struggle amongst them to be in charge of the accruals from the federa on alloca on accounts, as presidents, governors and chairmen (and their hangers-on legislatures) has taken the nas est turn ever, as the country sinks into its most nightmarish level of insecurity, poverty and aliena on, which they care less about. Nothing is spared as tools of poli cal manoeuvre to be in charge of oil money control: banditry, terrorism, religion, bullion vans, ethnicity, thuggery, corrup on of the judiciary and jus ce system, lack of inter-

nal party democracy, nepo sm, et cetera. Firstly, when democracy becomes as such perverted and useless as a system of delivering security of lives and property, freedom, jus ce and prosperity, democracy s ll remains the most effec ve and efficient means of seeking remedy; all other means lead to violent conflicts and no guaranteed just end. Secondly, when ignorance, poverty and primordial senments like tribe and religion become the dominant reali es of society, even the basic assump on of majority rule is undermined when the majority are poor, ignorant, primi vely sen mental and consequently disposed to irra onality in their choices.

Accordingly, we are returned to where the founding fathers started, and must work back to “we, the people” in order to achieve our historic des ny. Therefore, it is clearly the me NOW for patriots across all religion, tribe, and poli cal divides, to unite around the founding fathers’ ideal of a federal republic, and do what needed to be done to return Nigeria to it, outside of but not ignoring current democra c, local and interna onal poli cal reali es. That remains Nigeria’s only saving grace, and every progressive, patriot and democrat has to join the effort and start from his or her immediate space.

OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Promise Point Building, Opposite Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State. All correspondence to the Asst. News Editor, YUSUF OKETOLA, Telephone: 0809-301-9152. ISSN: 0794-8050. Website: www.osundefender.com Email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com, osundefenderhq@gmail.com