Osun Defender Newspaper Online Version of February 06, 2026

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 06, 2026

$20m Grant: Osun Govt Blames Oyetola Over Deplorable States Of PHCs

•Continued from front page

state Commissioner for Health, Mr Jola Akintola in response to an online report by a Non-Governmental Organiza ons, Tracka on the current state of Obamoro and Ilemowu PHCs in Ola-Oluwa Local Government Area of the state.

The Commissioner accused Tracka of being biased as it never deemed it fit to balance its report by seeking audience with the affected Ministry.

The commissioner said that the renova on of Obamoro PHC is already proposed in the PHC Rehabilita on and Revitalisaon Project and forms part of the remaining PHCs to be renovated, adding that renova on works on the remaining centres should have been completed by now, or at least be at nearcomple on stage.

The government said the withheld Local Government alloca on by the federal government from February 2025 ll date was a major factor responsible for the delayed compleon.

A copy of the statement made available to OSUN DEFENDER reads partly: “Within a period of three years of assump on of office, the state Governor cons tuted the Osun Primary Health Care Renova on Project Commi ee under the chairmanship of the Commissioner for Health – Hon. Jola Moses Akintola, while the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Health, Dr. Adekunle Akindele, serves as the Project Coordinator.

“The Commi ee was given the mandate to embark on a cri cal appraisal of Primary Health Ccare facili es throughout the state. Consequent upon the submission of report, Governor Ademola Adeleke gave express approval for the renova on of 332 main/high volume PHCs (called Focal Centres) all through the 332 wards in Osun State.

“The renova on work was phased accordingly, beginning with 200 PHCs for which funds were released and had been successfully renovated to world-class standard.

“For the sake of clarity, it is worthy of men on that the said renova on was not limited to building blocks and concrete floors but sufficiently covered provision of 24 hours Solar Energy and Water Supply to these facili es.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the pictures of the deplorable states of these facili es as inherited by the present administra on

from the 12 years of previous APC-led governments in Osun State were taken before commencement of renova on works and also upon comple on. It is both verifiable and uncontestable that the renovaon of already completed over 200 PHCs was done in compliance with globally accepted prac ces and standards.

“The State Ministry of Health shall be willing to provide both physical and documented evidence to Tracka, the media, and/or any member of the public at the shortest no ce. In the words of Uthman Dan Fodio – “Conscience is an open wound, only truth can heal it.”

It further added, “Before delving into the Governor’s ac on plan for comple on of the remaining PHCS, it is per nent to state that when this current administra on came on board, hardly could anyone iden fy a single funconal PHC in the State.

“Virtually all the PHCs on ground were in deplorable state, quite unfit for habita on by animals, let alone human beings. There-

fore, the reported (and likely exaggerated) states of Obamoro and Ilemowu facili es, as presented in the said online report, could best be described as p of the iceberg of the decay we met on ground

and which this government remains unwavering in cleaning the mess. This completed and ongoing clean-up are phased since limited state resources are being deployed and appropriated to other a en on

deserving sectors – works, educa on, agriculture, etc.

“Ironically, the last administra on in Osun State, which was headed by Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, recieved a whooping World Bank Grant to the tune

of 20 million dollars and claimed to have devoted the same to renova on of PHCs, something that could best be described as smokescreen or mere window dressing.

“With respect to the case study in the report, specifically Obamoro PHC in Ola Oluwa Local Government Area, the renova on is already proposed in the PHC Rehabilita on and Revitaliza on Project and forms part of the remaining PHCs to be renovated. It is equally important to inform the general public that renova on works on the remaining Centres should have been completed by now, or at the least be at near-compleon stage, unfortunately, the unjus fiable withholding of Local Government Alloca on due to the 30 Local Governments since February 2025 ll date is largely responsible for the delayed comple on.”

Efforts to get the reacon of Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, proved abor ve as at press me.

Three Months After, Osun Amotekun Boss, Others Held In Detention Without Trial

THE Corps Commander of the Osun Amotekun Corps, Isaac Omoyele, is s ll held in deten on three months a er honouring an invitaon from the Nigeria Police Force headquarters, Abuja.

Omoyele is being held in police custody alongside other opera ves arrested in connec on with the September 2025 killing in Akinlalu community, Ife North Local Government Area of the state.

Recall that Omoyele voluntarily reported at the Force Headquarters on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

The con nued deten-

on of the Amotekun Commander and other opera ves have raised serious concerns among residents of the state.

The residents posited that the prolonged deten-

on is contribu ng to the deteriora ng level of security across the state.

A cross sec on of the residents who spoke with OSUN DEFENDER said, the con nued deten on of

How Fake Herbalist Allegedly Defrauded Man of N12.5m In Osun

AChief Magistrate court si ng in Osogbo, the Osun State capital has remanded a 31 year old man, Suleimon Olamide, labeled a “fake herbalist,” for allegedly defrauding a vic m of N12.5 million.

Olamide was arraigned on a three count charge bordering on fraud and the The prosecu on, led by Elisha Olusegun, in-

formed the court that the defendant was employed by Mufutau Mosuru to dig a well at his residence.

He said Olamide claimed to have had a vision indica ng that Mosuru’s mother was plotng to kill him.

To avert the supposed threat, Olamide persuaded Mosuru to pay him for rituals to appease the gods.

The prosecutor noted

that the ac ons contravened sec ons 409, 390(9), and 5(1) of the state’s criminal law. However, Olamide pleaded not guilty to all the charges leveled against him.

The Presiding Magistrate, Dr. Olusegun Ayilara, ordered that the suspect be remanded in the Ilesa Correc onal Centre un l the next adjourned date fixed for March 26, 2026.

Omoyele without trial is against the rule of law and an abuse of human rights.

A resident of Osogbo who simply iden fied himself as Akindele stressed that Omoyele’s deten on has nega vely impacted the effec veness of the Corps, which was established to complement the Nigeria Police and other security agencies in maintaining law and order at the grassroots level.

Akidele noted that since the deten on of the Amotekun boss, the presence of the Corps in communi es has significantly reduced, leading to heightened fear among residents and a perceived increase in criminal ac vi es.

He said “Amotekun was created to assist other sister security agencies in protec ng lives and property. What happened in Akinlalu was unfortunate, but the con nuous detenon of the commander is unnecessary.

“Those directly involved in the misfire that led to the killing of innocent people have already been arrested and should face the law,” he said. He further cri cized the sealing of Amotekun offices across the state, describing the ac on as excessive and counterproduc ve, especially at a me when communi es are grappling with rising cases of the , robbery and

other criminal ac vi es.

Akidele condemned the ac ons of the Nigeria Police and the InspectorGeneral of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, calling on the police authori es to reconsider their approach to the ma er in the interest of public safety.

He called for the immediate release of the Amotekun commander and other detained operaves, insis ng that jus ce would best be served by prosecu ng only those found culpable in the killings, rather than weakening the en re security architecture of the state.

Commen ng on the issue, the Public Rela ons Officer of Osun Amotekun, Yusuf Idowu Abass, said the opera ons of the security ou it are no longer effec ve as before, as officers’ morale has been dampened by the con nued deten on of their colleagues.

The PRO stated this while responding to enquiry by OSUN DEFENDER on Wednesday.

He said: “The Commander and the operaves remain in police deten on in Abuja and this has nega vely affected the ac vi es of the corps. Opera ons are no longer as effec ve as before, as officers’ morale has been dampened by the con nued deten on of their colleagues.”

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 06, 2026

SENATOR Sunday Steve Karimi who represents Kogi West in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was born on the 10th day of March,1962. Which means that he was four years old when the putsch (debatable whether he was a coup d’tat) occurred on the 15th of January 1966.

On that day, the 1963 Republican Cons tu on was “suspended”. It is important to state that the 1963 cons tu on has been endorsed with a plebiscite confirming its legi macy. The turnout during the referendum on the 1963 cons tuon was 82 percent of registered voters the highest before or since in any elec on in Nigeria electoral history da ng back to the first legisla ve council elec on in the Lagos colony and calabar in1923.

It had popular endorsement and legi macy. Senator Kadiri was one year old when the referendum took place. He can be forgiven for not knowing a great deal about the event which occurred at that me.

Senator Kadiri was obviously too young to have examined the merit of a proper opera ng federal set up. If he had, he would have seen the dangers entailed in further reinforcing the debilita ng framework of a quasi-federalism which has cons tuted a stumbling block to the country’s development.

Confirming a theatre of the absurd, Senator Sunday Kadiri has moved a bill to increase the revenue allocated to the federal government.

According to a newspaper report “The Senate on Tuesday iniated legisla ve steps to amend relevant provisions of the 1999 cons tu on to enable an upward review of the revenue alloca on formula in favour of the Federal Government. Under the exis ng formula,the Federal Government receives 52.68 percent of federally collected revenue, while the 36 states share 26.72 percent and the 774 local governments council receive 20.60 percent”

The report summarizes what is going to turnout to be a very terrible blow to the quest for sustainable development in Nigeria. That the bill passed the first reading so quickly reinforces the no on that the legisla ve body is an -federalist and pays scant a en on to implica ons of what it is about to embark upon.

Already, the evidence is that the na onal Assembly is not thorough in scru nizing the present alloca ons to the federal government.oversight func on by the Na onal Assembly to the present alloca ons to the Federal Government.

The Assembly is o en distracted by wallowing in trivia such as the suspension of a fellow member rather than paying rigorous atten on to details and has refused

•A Tragic-comic Interlude in Nigeria’s Senate Getting Curiouser And Curiouser...!

•Sen. Sunday Steve Kadiri (Kogi West) reflects the mindset of the rent-seeking political economy unlike the thinking of Oliver Lyttleton whose constitution was based on production as the driver of sustainable development. The difference is clear!

to set up a very much needed Congressional Budgets Office to provide the much needed technical support to undertake rigorous scru ny work. For this reason,We are in a very sorry state.

Senator Sunday Steve Kadiri obviously has no interest in the costs structure of governance even under what he considers to be the present inadequate alloca ons to the Central Government.

The senator is obviously not perturbed about the refusal to implement the recommenda ons of the Oronsaye report on the costs of machinery of the Federal Government.

Recurrent Expenditure con nues to go up without any scru ny about Wasteful spending.The Assembly merrily con nues to create new agencies and departments without doing any costs and benefits analysis as to their necessity. Surprisingly, debt has been incurred in order to service unproduc ve recurrent expenditure which have not translated into any value.

The country as a result also landscaped with what in Nigeria will haplessly describe as “Abandoned Project”. In contradis ncon, vitally needed funds are not available to beef up strategic areas such as the Arm Forces The internal security mechanism, Health Educa on and Social services. All of these show a dysfunc on in thinking and in prac ce.There is

absolutely no ra onal reason to increase any alloca on without a forensic introspec on about the costs and efficacy ra o.

The country has gained nothing from increased alloca ons to the centre and people in posi ons of responsibility should be introspecve, and learned from the lessons of history, otherwise they will confirm the observa on made by Marx that “History repeats itself twice, the first me as tragedy, the second me as farce.”

The tragedy of contemporary Nigeria is pronounced; we have about 139 million people in what is described as mul dimensional poverty. The figure might actually be an underes mate. The grotesque underperformance to where accus-

EXPLAINER

•The Proposed Bill by Senator Sunday Steve Kadiri to increase Revenue Allocation to the Centre is preposterous and reveals a rent-seeking mindset.

•Puting it within the context of disappointing underperformance, this confirms the notion that “History repeats itself twice. The first time as tragedy, the second time as farce.”

•Sustainable Development start from the grassroots, if in doubt examine the economic history of India, Malaysia, Brazil among others.

•Senator Kadiri attempt to consolidate the rent-seeking economy must be met with great reservations.

tomed likely to con nue and possibly increase if the formula is change to favour even more the central government.

The development process starts from the grassroots and then moves upward, countries such as India which have made giant strides have started from the base level. The community effort begins with the development of the human being with the provision of water systems, primary health facili es, primary educa on, environmental facili es, disserta on of land les to allow people to gain access to credit in order to modernize agriculture and so forth. It then moves upward. This is simple common sense. The community levels must be beefed up through increased alloca ons and upgraded technical assistance.

Let us take a brief look at how a proper Federalism should work as it did work in Nigeria under the Lyttleton cons tu on and the 1960 and 1963 cons tu on which operated under the framework of produc on as opposed to the rent-seeking framework of today. In the United States of America, for example, the State of California sent 500 Billion dollars to the federal government every year and s ll has 800 Billion dollars in reserve. This is real Federalism!

In India, the regional governments are the drivers of economic progress; a factor which has led to India becoming the fi h largest economy in the world and it is projected to become the largest economy in the world in 25 years me. Contrary to the delusions of Grandeur propelling some people, real development starts from the grassroots.

OSUN DEFENDER

Publisher – Moremi Publishing House Ltd.

Deputy Editor – Michael Bamigbola

Asst. News Editor – Yusuf Oketola

Deputy Photo Editor – Shola Aderinto

Deputy Graphics Manager – Zainab Olalere

Produc on Controller – Petkola Taiwo Ibitowa

OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Behind Oranmiyan Building, Gbodofon, Off Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State.

ISSN : 0794-8050

Telephone : 0809-301-9152

The projected increase in revenue alloca on, the recent proposal to increase the revenue allocated to the central government is ill advice, it goes against the empirical evidence amassed over the last century about the factors which triggers off the development process.

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

All correspondence to the above email addresses.

The mindset propelling the con nua on of a rent-seeking economy is reflected in this ill-fated bill. For the sake of this country, that an development mindset must be discarded.

Osun Guber: ADC Sets Up Campaign Committee

THE African Democra c Congress (ADC) in Osun State

has set up the campaign commi ee for the party ahead of the August 8 governorship elec on in the state.

The commi ee is tasked with the responsibility of canvassing for the party’s gorvernorship candidate, Rt Hon

Najeem Folasayo Salaam ahead of the elec on.

Also, the commi ee is to coordinate the campaigns of the party in all

the books and crannies of the state and as well ensure the victory of the party in the forthcoming gorvernorship polls.

Inaugura ng the campaign commi ee at the state secretariat of the party in Osogbo on Monday, the state chairman of the party, Dr Charles Omidiji said party is poised to winning the August 8 governorship elec on in the state.

He opined that the leadership of the party has put necessary machinery in mo on to ensure smooth campaign for the party ahead of the gorvernorship elecon.

The ADC chairman informed that the inaugura on ceremony gained the approval of the gorvernorship candidate of the party, Rt Hon Najeem Salaam, adding that all the leaders of the party

Save Grassroots Governance In Osun, Accord Party Begs Tinubu

THE Accord Party has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to save governance at grassroots level in Osun State.

The Na onal Chairman of the party, Maxwell Mgbudem in a press statement said the need to restore order and democra c values in the local governments in Osun State cannot be overemphasized.

He demanded the immediate vaca on of local government secretariats in the state by the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmen and councilors.

He explained that the purported elec on of chairmen and councillors was nullified by the Federal High Court Osogbo, in November 2022 and upheld by the Court of Appeal on 10th February 2025, and again on 13th June 2025, on ground that it was conducted in flagrant viola on of the requirements of the law.

Mgbudem said “more importantly, the tenure of the APC officials in the charade called elec on expired on 22nd October 2025.”

According to him, “there is no jus fica on whatsoever why they will con nue to occupy local government secretariats in Osun State backed and protected by the police as if Nigeria was a Banana Republic with no rule of law and where might is right. It is outrageous and a calculated assault on the naon’s hard earned democracy.

“Throwing patrio sm, decency and integrity to the

wind, the ex-APC chairmen and councilors recently rushed to the Federal High Court seeking an extension of their expired tenure by judicial fiat, forge ng that the court is the temple of jus ce, and those who come to equity must come with clean hands. This forum shopping is a delay tac c to con nue the siege on Osun local government secretariats.

“It is obvious that there is no place in the na on’s Cons tu on and Electoral Act that permits tenure extension for any elected official. These an -democra c forces have chosen to make a mockery of our representa ve governance. It is unacceptable and will be resisted by all lovers of democracy in Nigeria. We have a duty to safeguard our civil rule.

“Accordingly, Accord Party demands the immediate release of the ₦130 Billion statutory alloca ons to Osun state local governments illegally withheld by the federal government. It is unfair and unjust to withhold funds meant for effec ve and efficient governance at the grassroots, the government closest to the people.

“Accord Party condemns this assault on the

na on’s democracy by reac onary forces who want to cause confusion and poli cal upheaval with a view to declaring a state of emergency in Osun State.

“The party commends Governor Ademola Adeleke for his poli cal sagacity, maturity, restraint and respect for the rule of law in the face of provoca on, rascality and recklessness

by these ex-APC chairmen, councilors and their sponsors who want to discredit his progressive, peopleoriented government that has transformed the state.”

If You Forget The Drumbeat, You’ll Miss The Dance Art/Culture

IN every African village, especially here in Osun State, the drumbeat has never been just sound. It is language. It is memory. It is movement. It is spirit. Whether at a naming ceremony, a funeral, a fes val, or an ordinary evening by the moonlight, the drum tells stories words cannot carry.

But today, as I walk the paved streets of Osogbo, I wonder—what happens when we no longer hear the drum? What happens when the children no longer learn its rhythm, and the elders stop teaching its meaning?

Our tradi ons are more than rituals or rounes—they are the codes of iden ty. The drumbeat is symbolic of the deeper rhythm of African life: our gree ngs, our songs, our storytelling, our community. In ancient Yorubaland, no major event

began without the talking drum—dundun or gangan. It was the announcement. The heartbeat. The soul.

Sadly, many of our young people today can name foreign music stars faster than they can name tradi onal drummers in their own villages. Some can dance to TikTok trends but cannot follow the steps of the bata or ayan. The digital world is fast, exci ng—and yes, it must be embraced. But it should not erase our founda on.

If we forget the drumbeat, we lose the dance. And if we lose the dance, we dri —rhythm-less— through a world that never truly sees us.

As someone raised between village firesides and urban streetlights, I understand the tension. We want progress. We want modernity. But let it be a progress that remembers where it came from. Let

in the state approved the commi ee.

He stated that the members of the campaign commi ee are selected base on their competence, loyalty and commitment to the ideals of the ADC.

His words “the task before us is enormous, but it is achievable if we work with unity, discipline and a shared vision.

“As commi ee members, you are expected to demonstrate dedicaon, transparency and strategic thinking. This campaign must be grassroots-driven, issue-based and people-centred. We must engage the electorate with humility, clarity of purpose and unwavering belief in our candidate and partymanifesto.

“I hereby charge all inaugurated commi ee members to discharge their responsibili es diligently and in the overall interest of our great party. Together, let us move forward with courage and convic on to secure victory for the ADC and deliver good governance to the people of Osun State,” Omidiji added.

our schools teach coding and also teach folklore. Let our fes vals invite tourists, but also ignite pride in our children.

Culture is not a museum piece. It’s a living fire. And like every fire, it needs tending. Elders must speak. Youth must listen. Parents must model. Communi es must celebrate.

The Osun-Osogbo Fesval, for instance, is not just a tourist event. It is a drumbeat. A reminder of how deeply spiritual, ars c, and united our people are when we remember who we are. We must protect such spaces. Expand them. Digi ze them without dilu ng them.

As builders, educators, ar sans, content creators, and storytellers, we all have a role. Let’s document our lan-

guages. Let’s record our drummers. Let’s film our dances. Let’s pay our ar sts. Let’s create jobs around our culture—not just because of its past, but because of its power to shape a future that is ours. Osun’s youth deserve to know they come from greatness. That in the beat of the drum is the pulse of innova on, resilience, and beauty. That culture is not a backward thing—it is a backbone thing.

So the next me you hear the talking drum— pause. Listen. Move. Teach your children its name. Tell them what it says. Remind them that to forget the drumbeat is to miss the dance. And in Africa, when you miss the dance, you miss life itself. Let us not miss life.

Erin-Osun Community Calls For Release Of Report Of Ifon/Ilobu/Erin-Osun Boundary Resolution Committee

THE Erin-Osun community in Irepodun Local Government Area of Osun State have called on the state Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke to ensure that the report of the Ifon/Ilobu/Erin-Osun boundary resolu on commi ee is released without further delay.

This is even as the community called for las ng resolu on to the communal clash among the three neighbouring communi es of Ifon, Ilobu and Erin-Osun in Irepodun and Orolu Local Government Areas of the state.

Governor Adeleke had on 25th January 2025 set up a boundary resolu on commi ee to proffer lasting solu on to the age long boundary dispute among Ifon, Ilobu and Erin-Osun communies. No fewer that 10 persons reportedly lost their loves during the boundary dispute, while scores of people sustained injuries and property worth millions of naira vandalized. The situa on prompted the state government to impose 24 hours curfew in the three towns, just as military personnel were dra ed to the towns to prevent fur-

ther breakdown of law and order.

But, a year a er the composi on of the commi ee the state government has not released the report of the commi ee which comprised of tradi onal rulers from across the state, community leaders from the warring communi es and members of the Civil Society Organiza ons.

Although, it was learnt that the commi ee had submi ed its report, it was not clear why the state government has not made public the report of the commi ee.

But, the Na onal President of Erin-Osun Progressive Union (EPU), Chief Kayode Gbadebo Olawale while speaking at the swearing in of the newly elected execu ve members of the union appealed to Governor Adeleke to release the report of the committee for the good of the community and the state at large.

This, he said will ensure las ng solu on to the boundary disputes among the three communi es.

“The step taken by the state government was laudable but further delay could be dangerous. We want permanent resolu on to the crisis in order to have las ng peace and not that of the grave-

•Seeks Lasting Solution To Communal Dispute

yard,” he said.

He also lamented the poor state of roads in the community and urged the state government to assist with the

rehabilita on of the roads which has made transporta on difficult in the town.

“I also want to state categorically that

Erin-Osun is not subservient to the other communi es within the local government. The government and the poli cal party in power should therefore check the lopsidedness and imbalances in the poli cal set up as well as appointment into posi ons within Irepodun Local Government Area,” he said.

elected

offi

Awotunde Cautions Police Over Ikirun Chieftaincy Matter

Michael Bamigbola

CHAIRMAN of the Associa on of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) loyal to Governor Ademola Adeleke in Osun State, Otunba Sarafadeen Abiodun Awotunde has cau oned the state Commissioner of Police, the Deputy Commissioner of Police and the Ikirun Area Commander of the Nigeria Police Force over reported at-

SAVE OUR SOUL: Ora-Igbomina Indigenes Cry Out Over Rising Kidnapping

INDIGENES of OraIgbomina in Ifedayo Local Government Area of Osun State, have cried out over the spate of Kidnapping in the community. It was learnt that the risen insecurity has le the community in disarray and chronic fear.

OSUN DEFENDER reports that three persons have been reportedly Kidnapped in the area since December 2025.

In a statement by Ora-Igbomina Youth Font, the Osun State Government has did nothing to forestall reoccurence of the event that le the Ora people in tears and panic of kidnappers invading the community.

A copy of the state-

ment signed by the Ag. Coordinator, Comrade Omololu Abidoye and Head, Public Rela ons, Ayanyinka Olusanjo reads partly: “It would be recall that on the 15th of December, a kidnapping case was widely reported in ORA - the boundary town linking Osun in the Northeastern part, with Eki and Kwara States.

“One would believe that the State Government of Osun would ghten up security across border towns, but to our utmost displeasure, Osun government did li le or nothing to forestall reoccurrence of the sardonic event that le Ora people in tears and panic of kidnappers invading the community

again.

“Today, in less than two months a er the first ever community invasion and kidnapping recorded in our town, another has happened on Sunday, February 1st, 2026. Leaving two sons of the soil; SUNDAY ADEYEYE & SUNDAY ADEWUMI whisked away.

“Unarguably, the inability of security agencies to bring to book, the perpetrators involved in the first case has created a convenient avenue for evil doers who specialized in “kidnappingfor-ransom” to strike again barely few weeks a er the freedom of a re red custom officer who had earlier been kidnapped and released

•Continued on Page 7

tempts to in midate elders and community leaders in Ikirun, headquarters of Ifelodun Local Government Area of the state in connec on with the ongoing chieftaincy ma er in the town.

It was gathered that some elements in the town are not pleased with the resolve to permanently end the lingering kingship crisis in the town,

These elements, Awotunde alleged that rather than embracing peace, have reportedly resorted to harassment and in mida on of respected elders of Ikirun and leaders of the Na-

onal Ikirun Progressives Union (NIPU) who supported the Governor’s lawful execu ve interven on that restored calm to the community.

Otunba Awotunde stated that he has it on good authority that “these disgruntled elements have enlisted the support of security agencies, including the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Deputy Commissioner of Police, and the Ikirun Area Commander, to harass and destabilize the Akinrun-in-Council led by the Chief Eesa, Alhaji AbdulKareem Adetoyese Lawal, as well as other

innocent leaders and highly respected elders of Ikirun.”

The ALGON Chairman emphasized that the Ikirun Chie aincy ma er squarely falls within the cons tu onal and execu ve powers of the Governor of Osun State.

He recalled that “it was Governor Adeleke who ordered the closure of the palace in the interest of peace and it was the same Governor who later approved the reopening of the palace strictly for clearing and renova on purposes, also in the interest of sustained peace. “

“Therefore, the Commissioner of Police, Deputy Commissioner of Police and the Ikirun Area Commander should remain professional, neutral and be guided strictly by the rule of law and not allow themselves to be used by poli cians or poli cal groups hiding under the cover of security opera ons to destabilize Ikirun once again.

“The peace currently enjoyed in Ikirun must not be sacrificed on the altar of poli cal despera on. Any a empt to in midate tradi onal ins tu ons, elders, or peace-loving leaders of the community will be strongly resisted within the confines of the law,” Awotunde added.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 06, 2026

Redeemer’s University Researchers Make Top 500 Researchers In Nigeria For 2026 SciVal Listing

Shola Aderinto

REDEEMER’S University, Ede, Osun State, has recorded a significant milestone in its steady rise as a hub of globally impac ul research and innova on.

The university now ranks high on SciVal’s list of top 500 authors by scholarly output in Nigeria from 2022 to 2026, with nine of the university’s scholars making the list.

On the list are Dr Roseline Ogundokun, Prof Chris an Happi, Prof Felix Olajide Talabi Prof Adewale Adewuyi, Dr Ajibola Abiodun Bayode, Dr Timilehin Gideon Shaba, Dr Mar ns Omorogi, Prof Olanrewaju Seun Adesina

(no. 406), and the late Prof Iyayi Unuabonah.

Speaking to the broader significance of the milestone, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Shadrach Olufemi Akindele, stated that the accomplishment highlights Redeemer’s University’s growing footprint in the global re-

search ecosystem, where its scholars are contributing knowledge that is cited, applied, and respected across con nents.

This achievement spotlights Redeemer’s University’s strategic vision of nurturing faculty whose work meets interna onal standards while remaining locally relevant. It is on record that, as part of the new strategic direc on under the current leadership dispensation, the University has consistently emphasised the role of research in driving ins tu onal reputa on and na onal devel-

Eight Inmates Awarded

OSUN State com-

mand of the Nigerian Correc onal Service (NCS) has recorded a major milestone at the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), IleIfe, with the presenta on of Trade Test Cer ficates to eight reformed inmates who successfully completed voca onal training programmes while in the custody.

The Public Rela ons Officer of the command, Joel Oyedokun disclosed this in a statement made available to Osun Defender. Speaking during the cer ficate presenta on, the Osun State Controller of Correc ons, Olalekan Ro mi Oluwadele

opment.

The Vice-Chancellor explained further that such achievements reaffirm Redeemer’s University’s posi on as a faithbased ins tu on with world-class academic output, producing scholars whose impact transcends borders.

As Redeemer’s University con nues to invest in research capacity, mentorship and interna onal collabora on. Milestones like these serve as inspiraon to younger academics and students alike, demonstra ng that excellence, consistency, and purpose-driven scholarship remain at the heart of Redeemer’s University.

Meanwhile, Professor Olanrewaju Seun Adesina, a dis nguished scholar at the Redeemer’s Universi-

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commended the Officerin-Charge for priori sing inmates welfare and skill

acquisi on. He described the ini ave as a clear demonstra-

OSUN State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has emphasized that his administra on ha through his efforts, stabilized the economy, priori zed ci zens’ welfare and improved the infrastructure of the state.

The Governor stated this in his address at the community project and founda on laying of the Osun Development Associa on (ODA) house, held at ODA Secretariat, OkePupa, Osogbo on Thursday.

The Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Bunmi Jenyo, saluted the ODA for being a credible pla orm of mobilizing ci zens at home and in the diaspora towards the development

of the state.

He also applauded the ODA for its genuine and consistent engagement in community development, advocacy and social responsibility, which reflects a deep love for the masses and a clear understanding that no government can do it all.

The founda on laying of ODA house was the grand finale of the events that marked the 30th anniversary of the associaon.

It also showcased the launch of a 100 million teachers’ transforma on and empowerment programme which will be anchored by Prof. Hakeem Subair for the associa on in due course.

According to the Governor, “ODA has con nued to complement government efforts through ini-

ty and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, is among the researchers who have reached 100 documents indexed in Scopus, one of the world’s most reputable abstract and cita on databases for peer-reviewed research.

This achievement underscores Redeemer’s University’s commitment to research excellence, global visibility, and knowledge that addresses real-world challenges.

Scopus indexing is widely regarded as a benchmark for quality, relevance, and interna onal recogni on in academia, and reaching 100 indexed

publica ons is a mark of sustained scholarly produc vity and influence.

Professor Adesina’s research spans materials engineering, corrosion science, surface engineering, and advanced materials processing, with applica ons that cut across industry, infrastructure development, and sustainable technologies.

Beyond the numbers, his work reflects Redeemer’s University’s philosophy of research with purpose and scholarship that not only advances theory but also delivers prac cal solu ons to our na onal and global problems.

Trade Test Certificates In Osun

on of the core mandate of the Nigerian Correconal Service and charged the beneficiaries to uphold good conduct and make produc ve use of the skills acquired. He also directed that the cer fied inmates be adequately profiled by the A ercare Unit to ensure effec ve post-release reintegra on and monitoring. While delivering his welcome address, the Officer-in-Charge of the Centre, ACC Winner Olawuyi, commended Officers and men of the Centre, as well as the inmates, for their commitment and discipline throughout the training period.

He disclosed that a to-

We Have Stabilized Osun’s Economy, Prioritise Citizens’ Welfare - Gov

a ves that promote educa on, social cohesion, youth engagement and support for communitybased projects. Your interven ons have helped to amplify the voices of our people and a ract goodwill and resources to Osun State. This commitment is commendable and worthy of recogni on”.

“The decision to embark on the construcon of a permanent ODA House further demonstrates your long-term vision. This facility will serve as a centre for coordina on, dialogue, planning and partnership. It will also strengthen your capacity to engage government, development partners and stakeholders in a more structured and impac ul manner”.

“Across the State, we have recorded progress in

road rehabilita on, school renewal, health facility upgrades and social protec on programmes. Our commitment to prompt payment of salaries and pensions has no doubt restored confidence and dignity to public service. These achievements are part of our resolve to rebuild trust and lay a solid founda on for long-term growth”.

“We are not res ng on these gains as more projects and reforms are underway. Our administraon remains focused on expanding opportuni es for our youths, empowering communi es and attrac ng investments that will create jobs and improve living standards”.

“In this journey, organisa ons like the Osun Development Associa on are vital partners. Your

Adeleke

reach and commitment place you in a unique posi on to mobilise ideas, resources and support for the collec ve good. I encourage ODA to con nue playing this bridging role between the government and the people”.

“Let me assure you, we are open to collabora ons and partnerships that align with our shared goal of a prosperous and peaceful Osun State”.

“As we lay the foundaon of this ODA House today, I urge all members to see it as a call to renewed service. Let this project inspire greater unity and impact in your engagements. I wish this project mely comple on and las ng relevance.

Together, through shared responsibility and collec ve ac on, we will •Continued on Page 7

tal of 26 inmates had undergone training and demonstrated competence in various voca onal skills, including barbing, tailoring, laundry services, shoe and bag making, electrical and electronics works, masonry and bricklaying, plumbing, carpentry and furniture making, as well as automobile mechanics.

Olawuyi reaffirmed the Centre’s alignment with the policy thrust of the Controller-General of Correc ons, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche which priori zes Reforma on, Rehabilita on and Reintegra on of offenders into society.

He noted that the Nigerian Correc onal Service has con nued to emphasize correc onal outcomes and human capacity development, in line with the provisions of the NCoS Act, 2019, and the Federal Government’s broader correc onal reform agenda.

Nwakuche further appealed to individuals, faith-based organisa ons, and corporate bodies to support the sponsorship of inmates yet to undergo Trade Tests, as well as the provision of a ercare tools and materials for inmates nearing discharge.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Adeniyi Emmanuel, one of the inmates discharged on the same day, expressed apprecia on to the Service for the opportunity to acquire voca onal skills. He pledged to establish a laundry business using the skills gained during his four-year period of incarcera on.

Morocco To Appeal CAF Rulings On Disorderly AFCON Final

MOROCCO’S football federa on (FRMF) said ON Tuesday it would appeal the Confedera on of African Football’s (CAF) disciplinary rulings over last month’s chao c Africa Cup of Na ons final against Senegal, which the hosts lost 1-0 a er extra me. FRMF cri cized the sanc ons as dispropor onate to the “seriousness and gravity” of the incidents during the 18 January match, which was overshadowed by a 14 minute interrup on a er Senegalese players staged a walk-off, a pitch invasion by their fans and confronta ons involving

players and staff

CAF’s Disciplinary Commi ee handed Senegal’s coach Pape Thiaw a fivematch ban and fined him $100,000 (£82,000) a er he instructed his team to leave the pitch following a VAR decision to disallow a goal late in regular me.

Senegal’s football federa on was fined $615,000 (£508,000) for the behaviour of their players and supporters, with Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr receiving two-match bans for unspor ng ac ons directed at the referee.

Morocco, whose appeal to have the match result overturned was rejected by CAF, were also

hit with sanc ons totalling $315,000 (£260,000).

Their penal es relate to what CAF described as misconduct by Moroccan players, staff, and supporters, including the use of laser pointers and improper interven on in the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) area.

Captain Achraf Hakimi was handed a two-match suspension, one of which is suspended for a year, while Ismael Saibari was banned for three games, with both players penalised for attemp ng to remove Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy’s towel in heavy rain condi ons.

“The FRMF will appeal the decisions in order to

safeguard all rights guaranteed by law,” said a statement issued by the federa on, which specifically cited “the withdrawal of Senegalese players and the conduct of their supporters” during the final as grounds for contesting the rulings.

CAF, however, described the tournament as a success overall, highlighting

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record revenues despite the controversy surrounding the final.

CAF confirmed the sanc ons will apply to its

compe ons, further souring the conclusion to what Morocco had hoped would be a triumphant campaign on home soil.

NOA Urges Nigerians To Close Cancer Care Gap

Ocancer preven on.

The agency also made case for early detec on and equi-

•Continued from Page 5

a er ransom was allegedly paid.

“We are not oblivion of the fact that communal security is a collec ve responsibility of the ci zenry and Government, but who do we blame in a situa on where abductors equipped with sophiscated weapons bursted into homes of armless ci zens and whisk them away?

We are, of course, le with no choice than to call on Government,

in a strong reminder, that its primary purpose is the security of live & proper es of the ci zenry.

“Our town has always been known for peaceful coexistence, and it is our collec ve responsibility to ensure that this reputa on is upheld.”

The group demanded that: “Osun Government should put physical security barriers in place to define & demarcate the State boundary, and prevent

unauthorized entry into the state through the ORA border.

“Human and Operaonal Security be put in place for effec ve surveillance and community watch solely for territorial gatekeeping.

“A Military checkpoint/base in Ora to enable a comprehensive security posture, against organized crime in volale border area like our community — ORA IGBOMINA. A community that does not only connect Osun, Eki & Kwara

table access to care.

In a statement signed by the Public Rela ons Officer of the agency, Bunmi Olaseinde, the State Director of NOA, Mr. Adebiyi Adefarasin Stephen, emphasized that cancer remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with many cases diagnosed at advanced stages due to low awareness, s gma, myths and limited access to screening services.

Adebiyi noted that the factors significantly contribute to the high rate of cancer-related deaths in the country.

He stressed that cancer is not a death sentence if detected early, adding that many forms of cancer are preventable and treatable when individuals seek mely medical atten on and adopt healthy lifestyles.

The NOA Osun Director highlighted

States but significantly connected the Southwest and North central regions. How could such a sensi ve border town be of no military checkpoint, visible presence of the Na onal Border Management and would not be exposed to interregional crimes?”

They called on Border Communi es Development Agency(BCDA) to establish a working presence of border guards with func onal mobility/patrol vehicle and other necessi es.

that late presentaon remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Nigeria, and that early repor ng to health facili es, access to accurate informa on, screening, and prompt treatment can save lives.

Common cancers in Nigeria include breast cancer, cervical cancer, prostate cancer, liver cancer and colorectal cancer.

Warning signs not to ignore include unusual lumps or swellings, persistent pain or unexplained weight loss, abnormal bleeding or discharge, changes in breast shape, size, or skin, and persistent cough or hoarseness.

Adebiyi advised Nigerians to avoid to-

•Continued from Page 6

con nue to move Osun State forward”, he said.

Earlier in his opening address, the ODA Chairman, Dr. Segun Aina who explained that members are selfless and successful individuals, who were iden fied and invited to join the associa on, always seek the development of Osun State.

He commended the Governor and his team for his giant strides in infrastructure, educa on, health and economic transforma on of the State.

Dignitaries at the occasion include the former Chairman of the associa on, Prof. Olu

bacco and excessive alcohol consumpon, eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, engage in regular physical ac vity and maintain a healthy body weight.

He also urged the public to protect themselves from harmful sun exposure and to get vaccinated against Hepa s B and Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

According to him, cancer care is a shared responsibility, and closing the care gap begins with awareness, compassion, and mely acon. He encouraged residents of Osun State and Nigerians at large to priori ze their health by getng screened, speaking up, and supporting one another.

Aina, former Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Educaon, Mr. Kehinde Jimoh, the Alabeere of Abere, Oba Mutalib Abiade, Pastor Tunji Olugbodi, Dr. Tunde Aworan and Architect Goke Omigbodun. Others are the NUT Chairman, Comrade Isaac Babalola represented by Comrade Lateef Oloyede, Mrs Funmi Aina, Prof. Segun Aina of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Prof. Hakeem Subair, Mr. Kola Ayeye and the Execu ve Secretary, Senior Secondary School Educaon Board, Osun State, Mrs Kolawole Hannah Ibidunni.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 06, 2026 VOL. 21 NO 10 www.osundefender.com, email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com

WHAT was sold to Nigerians as “reform” has revealed itself as something far more sinister: state-sanc oned extrac on masquerading as economic policy. Consider the numbers. Between 2015 and 2023, Nigeria spent an es mated ₦12.6 trillion on fuel subsidies:

2015: ₦654 billion

2016: ₦240 billion

2017: ₦154 billion

2018: ₦1.19 trillion

2019: ₦508 billion

2020: ₦864 billion

2021: ₦1.43 trillion

2022: ₦4 trillion

2023 (Jan–Jun): ₦3.36 trillion

Yet in the single financial year ended 2024, according to NNPCL’s audited consolidated statements, the Federa on accumulated a debt of ₦17.5 trillion to NNPCL for pipeline protec on, energy security opera ons and under-recoveries on petroleum products a figure dwarfing almost a decade of historical subsidy spending. This includes ₦7.13 trillion in energy security costs and ₦8.67 trillion in under-recoveries, with addi onal amounts covering pipeline surveillance, repairs, an -the measures, and infrastructure safeguards.

One number alone obliterates every moral and economic jusfica on ever offered for subsidy removal. The 2025 expenditure figures for these categories remain pending, but monthly reports through late 2025 highlight ongoing revenue, profits, and remi ances without disclosing totals for these high-cost areas.Let us dispense with euphemisms.As its subsidy removal did not eradicate corrup on it ins tu onalised it. It did not dismantle vested interests it entrenched them. It did not restore fiscal discipline, it diverted public wealth into fewer, more predatory hands.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s public debt has ballooned, rising from ₦12.6 trillion in 2015 to over ₦140 trillion today, as deficit financing accelerates unchecked. The government’s repeated promises that subsidy removal would stabilise finances have proven illusory. The visible subsidy was eliminated, only to be replaced by invisible, opaque spending executed with bureaucra c precision.A ruthless coalion clique, cartel or cabal now presides over a system deliberately structured to immiserate over 250 million ci zens while protec ng a privileged minority. Hardship has been codified as policy. Opacity has become governance.Let me be blunt this is among the most damaging administra ons Nigeria has experienced. What we are witnessing is

Morocco To Appeal CAF Rulings

BY OLUFEMI ADUWO

Invisible Looting, Visible Suffering: The Real Cost Of Subsidy Removal

not macroeconomic adjustment; it is policy-driven preda on.

Don’t be deceived by the

interna onal ra ng agencies, mul lateral ins tu ons, they were engaged.I have been a

“Don’t be deceived by the international rating agencies, multilateral institutions, they were engaged.I have been a returnee to the World Bank & IMF Boards of Governors Meetings since 2012, served in the Civil Society Policy Forum (CSPF) of the World Bank, and assisted the World Bank Independent Integrity Group these institutions are diplomatic in words and actions. When these institutions applaud a nation, it is often a signal that citizens are in distress and governance has shifted to optics over substance”

When Justice Bows To Power

“ THE one place where a man ought to get a square deal is in a courtroom.” – A cus Finch, To Kill a Mockingbird

A cus Finch also reminded us: “Thomas Jefferson once said that all men are created equal… but there is one way in this country in which all men are created equal—there is one human instu on that makes a pauper the equal of a Rockefeller… That instu on, gentlemen, is a court.” Together, these words underscore a meless truth: the courtroom is meant to be the great leveler, the one place where jus ce does not bow to wealth, privilege, or power.

Yet in Nigeria today, many ci zens no longer believe this is true. The legal profession, once revered as the guardian of jusce, increasingly struggles under the weight of corrup on, indiscipline, and impunity within its own ranks. At the heart of this problem lies the failure to hold lawyers accountable for misconduct.

A growing menace is the filing of frivolous cases—claims brought not for jus ce but to harass opponents or delay out-

comes. These cases clog the dockets of judges, consuming scarce judicial me and resources that could otherwise serve genuine li gants. Closely ed to this abuse is the reckless resort to ex parte orders, o en obtained under dubious circumstances and weaponized to achieve what the law would not ordinarily allow. Such tac cs undermine judicial integrity and erode public faith in the courts.

Many mes judges get pilloried for delivering conflic ng judgments, especially at the appellate level; however, the lawyers who argue these some mes-absurd posi ons of law are not subjected to equal scorn, and neither are they ques oned by the Nigerian Bar Associa on. Worse s ll, the NBA itself has been reduced to a body that bites only when the lawyer in breach is deemed inconsequen al, but somehow becomes toothless when the lawyer is a man of repute and means in the profession. This selec ve discipline reinforces the sense that the rules are nego able for the powerful, while the weak bear the full weight of regula on.

The situa on is worsened by

returnee to the World Bank & IMF Boards of Governors Mee ngs since 2012, served in the Civil Society Policy Forum (CSPF) of the World Bank, and assisted the World Bank Independent Integrity Group these ins tu ons are diploma c in words and ac ons. When these ins tu ons applaud a na on, it is o en a signal that ci zens are in distress and governance has shi ed to op cs over substance.

Another four years of this approach would deepen debt distress, accelerate capital flight, erode investor confidence and further impoverish households. No economy can survive prolonged exposure to predatory governance.History will not recall this era as one of necessary adjustment. It will record it as a na onal tragedy engineered by professional looters and legi mised with technocra c language. Shame ,I mean profound shame on a system that has ins tu onalised corrup on, weaponised policy and dignified the as governance.

•Permanent Representative of CCDI to the ECOSOC/ United Nations NB: CCDI is non profit organisation with Consultative Status of United Nations.

the conduct of “big wigs” of the Bar who, shielded by rank and poli cal connec ons, rou nely flout the rules of professional prac ce with impunity. When senior lawyers treat the rules as sugges ons rather than obligaons, they set a damaging precedent for younger prac oners and signal that corrup on pays.

For the ordinary Nigerian, these pa erns are devasta ng. A common man who steps into court with hope o en meets endless adjournments, compromised processes, and a percep on that jus ce is for sale. The sense that “the system is rigged” discourages ci zens from seeking redress in lawful ways, pushing disputes into the streets rather than the courtroom.

Discipline, therefore, is not a luxury for the legal profession—it is its lifeline. The Bar must show that no lawyer, no ma er how senior, is above the rules. Reviving strict oversight, punishing abuse of court processes, and holding prac oners to account are essen al steps if the courts are to remain places where the poor and powerful alike can expect a square deal. A society where the interest of the common man is secured is a society des ned for greatness.

OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Behind Oranmiyan Building, Gbodofon, Off Gbongan Road, Osogbo, Osun State. All correspondence to the Deputy Editor, MICHAEL BAMIGBOLA, Telephone: 0809-301-9152. ISSN: 0794-8050. Website: www.osundefender.com Email: osundefenderbank@gmail.com, osundefenderhq@gmail.com