Osun Defender Newspaper Online Version of March 06, 2026

Osun 2026: Adeleke, Oyebamiji Face Serious Hurdles

Michael Bamigbola the party.

GOVERNORSHIP can-

didate of the Accord Party in the August 15 gorvernorship elec on in Osun State and incumbent Governor of the state, Senator Ademola Adeleke may have serious hurdles to cross ahead of the polls.

The same is the situa on with the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Bola Oyebamiji as so many factors, especially within the party are against him.

For Adeleke, the main issue he has to contend with is the li ga on ins tuted by a fac on of the Accord Party which presents Mr Clement Kolawole Bamigbola as its gubernatorial candidate.

Recall that a fac on of the Accord Party in the state is challenging the candidature of Adeleke as the gorvernorship candidate of the party, claiming that Clement Bamigbola is the right choice of the party, having emerged through a process endorsed by the fac onal leadership of

Already, a case ins tuted by the Accord Party fac on and it’s gorvernorship candidate, Bamigbola is before the Federal High Court sitng in Osogbo and the court is expected to adjudicate the ma er soon.

Also, the posters of Bamigbola have flooded many parts of the state, with the inscrip on that presents him (Bamigbola) as the gorvernorship candidate of the Accord Party.

This medium can authorita vely reports that the posters of Bamigbola now flood areas like Oke Baale, Ibokun road and other parts of Osogbo, the state capital.

At the entrance of the main campus of the Osun State University in Osogbo, the posters of Bamigbola were seen conspicuously pasted, even as some of the posters were seen on the fence of the university campus in Osogbo.

In the posters pasted in many parts of Osogbo, the picture of Clement Bamigbo•Continued on Page 4

Osun Awaiting Teachers’ Hope Hang In The Balance

THE March 1, 2026

official date set for the 5,000 awai ng teachers in Osun State to resume has failed as applicants have con nued to express frustra on over the inability of Governor Ademola Adeleke to fulfil his promise.

Recall that Governor Adeleke while addressing the State Execu ve Council last Thursday sets 1st of March, 2026 as the resump on date for the first batch of the newly recruited teachers, direc ng the Commissioner for Educa on to comply with the deadline.

This was contained in a statement by the Spokesperson to the Governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed on Friday, February 27, 2026.

“The Council debated the implementa on of the Osun State Electricity Market law and directed the Commissioner for Energy to raise a proposal for the se ng up of the regulatory commission.

•As

March 1st Resumption Date Fails

•Applicants Fumes Over Delay In Appointment

“The Council praised the implementa on of payroll reform under the new administra on which has led to the seamless deployment of the World Bank supported SIFMIS and reaf-

firmed its rejec on of Sally Tibbot staff audit report.

“The Council also set March 1st, 2026 as the resump on date for the first batch of newly recruited teachers, direc ng the

Commissioner for Educaon to comply with the deadline.

“The Council received reports from the Commissioner for Finance on revenue and tax ma ers with

a direc ve to the Ministry of Finance and associated agencies to speed up tax reforms and expansion of the revenue base of the state,” a copy of the statement obtained by OSUN

Scholarship Scandal Rocks Osun Community

•As Modakeke In Diaspora Cancel WASSCE Awards Over Alleged Fraud

MODAKEKE Progressive Interna onal USA

Yusuf Oketola According to the letter, the organiza on formally no fied the Modakeke School System that the 2025/2026 WASSCE Scholarship Programme “has been officially cancelled with immediate effect.”

(MPI USA) has cancelled the 2025/2026 WASSCE Scholarship Awards following the discovery of alleged fraudulent acvi es linked to the selec on process, OSUN DEFENDER gathered.

The decision was contained in a le er addressed to the management of all par cipating public and private schools in Modakeke,.

The correspondence, signed by MPI USA President Akintoye Akinjinmi and Secretary, Felix Akinpelu, announced the immediate termina on of the scholarship programme.

MPI USA noted that the ac on followed the discovery of “fraudulent ac vi es associated with the scholarship process across mul ple par cipa ng schools.”

While specific details of the alleged irregularies were not disclosed, the organiza on emphasized that the integrity of the programme must be protected.

“To protect the integrity of the programme and ensure accountabil-

ity, it has become necessary to suspend and cancel the scholarship in its current form,” the statement reads.

OSUN DEFENDER gathered that the cancella on affects all ongoing and prospec ve WASSCE scholarship considera ons under the exis ng arrangement. Schools were instructed to halt any further ac on related to the scholarship un l further no ce.

The development has le many students and school administrators uncertain, especially those who had already begun preparaons or were awai ng final decisions regarding the awards.

RWPI Drives Women’s Political Empowerment In Osun

THE Radiant Women Progressive Ini ave (RWPI), a women-focused advocacy group, has intensified efforts to mobilise and empower women across Osun State to take ac ve roles in governance and decision-making.

Founded in 2010 by Ola Olabisi, the organisa on has expanded its presence to all 30 local government areas and

Shola Aderinto area office of the state, posi oning itself as a key grassroots pla orm for women’s poli cal engagement. Speaking on the vision behind the ini a ve, Olabisi said the group was established to address the persistent marginalisaon of women in leadership structures. “Women are the largest numbers of people on the planet, yet they remain largely excluded from posi ons

where cri cal decisions are made,” he said. RWPI adopts a community-based approach, focusing on rela onshipbuilding and con nuous engagement to encourage women to par cipate in civic and poli cal processes. The organisaon acknowledges that cultural barriers and low poli cal inclusion have posed challenges but noted that steady progress is being recorded.

MPI USA acknowledged the inconvenience the decision may cause and appealed for understanding from affected ins tu ons. The organiza on assured stakeholders that a thorough review of the situa on would be conducted.

“Our team will review the situa on thoroughly and will contact your ins tu on at a later date regarding how we intend to proceed in the future, including any revised framework or requirements,” the le er added.

Protests Rock Osogbo, Ejigbo, Ikirun Over Poor Electricity Supply

RYusuf Oketola muni es to protest the situa on as monitored by OSUN DEFENDER.

ESIDENTS of Osogbo and other major towns in Osun State on Wednesday trooped out in their numbers to protest against worsening electricity supply by the Ibadan Electricity Distribu on Company (IBEDC) across the state.

In the early hours of Wednesday, in a peaceful demonstra on, residents of Osogbo besieged the IBEDC office at sta on road to register their displeasure against the ongoing epilep c power supply.

Earlier in the week, Youths and Students in Ejigbo and IKirun stormed IBEDC offices in the com-

The residents have also gone on social media to express their anger while calling on the state government to intervene.

According to a resident of Ikirun, Adewale Ishola, the situa on has con nued to affect businesses in the community.

“Osun state government, Ifelodun local government Chairman, Akinrun in council, your A en on is needed in Ikirun, our electricity is bad and ge ng worse day by day. There is one area in Ikirun that

•Continued on Page 5

Letters

DEFENDER reads partly.

But five days later, the direc ve has not been implemented by the government.

Many of the applicants who expressed disappointments at the development described the Governor’s pronouncement as audio promise.

A cross sec on of them who spoke with OSUN DEFENDER on Thursday said they are yet to receive employment le ers.

“How possible is it for us to resume to schools when there has not been any official release of successful applicant list. No documenta on and submission of duty of resump on le er. Do we even know who and who are shortlisted for the first batch? The whole thing is shrouded in secrecy. The state Government should come out clean and let us know what is going on with the recruitment. This is the third me the Governor will give direc ve with acon,” one of the applicants stated.

Commen ng on the situa on, another applicant said: “I think it’s high me for us to do something than always keep wai ng and complaining. If you know any func on the governor is a ending, let’s gather two or more people with placards even if it is just a person, it is just to catch the a en on of Mr Governor.

“Maybe the Governor has forgo en his statement. Let’s try to remind him by a ending any of his func on with the placards. We can demonstrate by kneeling down. If your house is not far from Abere, try and show up with placard in a responsible manner. If Mohammed does not go to the mountain. It is be er for our mountain to go to Mohammed,” the applicant said.

Recall that the state government had in February 2024 embarked on the Teachers’ Recruitment exercise but the process remains inconclusive ll date.

The successful applicants a er their interviews in September 2024 are also yet to receive appointment le ers from the state government despite different assurances.

Meanwhile, the government a ributed the delay to the withheld local government alloca on.

Efforts to get the reacon of the state government was unsuccessful, as messages sent to the official line of the State Commissioner for Educa on, Hon. Dipo Eluwole were not returned at the me of filing this report.

IT is now clear that the bombardment of Iran was on the cards two months ago, the so called nego aon was a decoy. This has nothing to do with us. What is in conten on is what manner of scenario planning was undertaking by the authories in Nigeria. It brings to mind the mo o of the Boys Scout “Be prepared”.

We as by standers must now brace up for the collateral damage. Fuel prices have already gone up in some of the major metropolis such as Abuja and Lagos. The State capitals are also affected with some fuel staons hedging their bets by

“Any scenario planning which ought to have been done a month or so ago when the sabre had to rattle should have been based on our lack of production capacity. At the moment we are not even meeting our OPEC production allocation”

The Consequences Of The War

temporarily closing down. There are debates about how it is all going to pan out.

The already hard pressed consumer expectedly is the first casualty. And the consumer is already up and against it anyway with already diminished purchasing power and transportaon is crucial in any infla on index.

Any scenario planning which ought to have been done a month or so ago when the sabre had to rattle should have been based on our lack of produc on capacity. At the moment we are not even mee ng our OPEC produc on alloca on.

In addi on the Dangote refinery which has come to our rescue s ll has to import some of its crude oil requirements from abroad to then refine at home. With the upsurge in prices across the globe this will come at a cost to the Nigerian consumer and it is not the fault of the Dangote group that we have been was ng money on useless refineries instead off selling them off! The chickens have now come to roast.

We ought to have built up a strategic reserve of refined products over the years which we will now be using as a buffer. This is what a ra onal poli cal es-

The Discourse

A New Breath

By Smollett Adetoyese Shitu-Alamu

WHILE Benin City was boiling over violence on Tuesday the 24th of February the 22nd Nigerian Inspector General of Police (IGP)

Kayode Egbetokun was trying his best to resign from office in the naon’s capital, Abuja.

The earlier news that filtered in on Tuesday was that he was booted out of office by PBAT.

But then the government that hired him says he resigned so that he could be free to take care of very domes c family ma ers that needed his a en on.

Well, we do know it as a matter of fact that people in very senior posi ons be they poli cal or civic in Nigeria do not have the culture of resigning appointments.

Kayode Egbetokun PhD. could not have been a very different person as a Nigerian. Secondly his resigna on would not have been that sudden if it were normal.

There would have been some rumour about it all.

But he has resigned and has already handed over the responsibilies of the office of the IGP to Mr Olatunji Disu, a foremost opera ons cop as people describe him. The President says he has known Mr. Disu’s ever since he himself was the Governor of Lagos State.

“Is it a question of an Egbetokun leaving an Egbetokun trained cop replacing him to take us to 2027 and beyond? This saying is common: “The devil one knows is said to be better than the angel one does not know.”

That is about 20 years ago. He says the new broom in town has a good record. But then Nigerians can be too sure that the last on the ma er of IGP Egbetokun’s resigna on has not yet been heard, especially about the sudden resigna on of the 22nd IGP of Nigeria.

There is the sum of one hundred million naira that is said, was mistakenly paid into the account of Mr Victor Egbetokun the son of the just resigned police boss. What was it for?

The young man is said to have raised the alarm of the wrong lodgement into his bank account himself and had returned the money to where it came from. But can we ask this simple ques on? Is Victor the only young man and the only Egbetokun in life who that humongous sum of money could be mistakenly paid into his ac-

“We ought to have built up a strategic reserve of refined products over the years which we will now be using as a buffer. This is what a rational political establishment should have institutionalized decades ago just as we build up foreign exchange reserves for myriad of reasons”

tablishment should have ins tu onalized decades ago just as we build up foreign exchange reserves for s myriad of reasons including the need to stabilize the currency and to pay for imports, it is also why we and other naons have Sovereign Wealth Funds.

Unlike the deceit of palliaves social investment programmed can be turned into the engine room for sustainable development. Brazil for instance upli ed it’s agriculture through the school feeding programme becoming an sgro industrial export power house in the process.

count? Was it because his his own Egbetokun is linked to power and authority that can mesmerise?

All along since the year 2024 Nigerians had thought the Na onal Assembly and the Police Service Commission had had to replace the Police Services Act to enable Kayode Egbetokun to con nue to over see his police du es for the purpose of the 2027 general elec ons.

Every Nigerian who thought so then including our own selves appear to have been disappointed by last Tuesday’s master stroke. Now Egbetokun will no more lead the Police to 2027 general elec ons. He has le office. An ac ng IGP is already stabiliz-

ing himself in the saddle un l the Senate confirms his appointment.

PBAT has told Nigerians that he has known Olatunji Disu as a crack policeman in Lagos when he himself was Governor of the State.

Nigerians do know that the president also knew Egbetokun at about the same me the two l served him in Lagos. That was how they came under his security radar for fishing out.

Is it a ques on of an Egbetokun leavin an Egbetokun trained cop replacing him to take us to 2027 and beyond? This saying is common: “The devil one knows is said to be be er than the angel one does not know.” Time will tell.

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

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

All correspondence to the above email addresses.

In the mean me let us all welcome the new Inspector-General of Police of Nigeria Mr Olatunji Disu into office at Louis Edet House, Area 11 Abuja. The name Disu is one that should remind Nigerians of a football coach who led Nigeria to perform the Miracle of Damman in February 1989. His name was and s ll is Tunde Disu. Any rela ons? There doesn’t have to be one before this (Olatunji) Disu can work assiduously to create miracles in our security space.

This is wishing the new Sheriff the very,

Osun 2026: Adeleke, Oyebamiji Face Serious Hurdles

•Continued from Page 1

la was inscribed on them, and he (Bamigbola) was presented as the gorvernorship candidate of the Accord Party.

However, the state chapter of the party under the leadership of Pastor Victor Akande discountenance the development, claiming that Governor Adeleke remains the sole candidate of the party for the August 15 gorvernorship elec on in the state.

Akande claimed that Bamigbola is not known to the party and did not emerge as the gorvernorship candidate of the party.

But Bamigbola claimed that he was duly endorsed by the leadership of the party and chas sed the Independent Na onal Electoral Commission (INEC) for recognizing Adeleke as the party’s gorvernorship candidate despite the case before the Osogbo division of the Federal High Court.

He faulted the inclusion of Governor Adeleke’s name on the list of gorvernorship

•Governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Osun State, Dr. Najeem Folasayo Salaam acknowledging cheers at the 2026 Special Ramadan Lecture hosted by the ANSAR-UD-DEEN SOCIETY OF NIGERIA, Ejigbo Branch, held at ADS Primary School, Igboowa, Ejigbo, Osun State

candidates recently released by INEC, informing that the development is currently being challenged in court.

Also, the issue surrounding the recently released audit report by Sally Tibbot Consul ng Limited, an audit firm engaged by the state government to audit the state workforce is a big hurdle for Governor Adeleke to cross

NASFAT Annual Ramadan Lecture: Islamic Clerics Commend Osun Governor In Ede and Osogbo

Ibrahim Abdullahi

THE Governor of Osun State has expressed deep apprecia on following prayers and commenda ons offered by respected Islamic clerics during the Annual Ramadan Lectures held at the NASFAT prayer grounds in Ede and Osogbo.

Speaking a er the wella ended gatherings, the Governor described the clerics’ acknowledgment of his administra on’s commitment to good governance and jus ce as both humbling and mo va ng. He noted that their words of encouragement have further strengthened his resolve to con nue serving the people of Osun with sincerity and accountability.

The Governor reaffirmed his vow to lead in accordance with the dictates of Allah, emphasizing fairness, transparency, and compassion as the guiding principles of his administra on.

He described leadership as a sacred trust that demands integrity, devo on and fear of Allah.

He assured residents that his government remains commi ed to policies and programs that promote equity, development, and the overall well-being of the state.

According to him, with divine guidance and the con nued support of the people, Osun State will keep advancing on the path of progress and jus ce.

The Ramadan lectures drew large congrega ons of faithful, community leaders, and government offi-

cials, serving as a pla orm for spiritual reflec on, unity, and renewed commitment to righteous leadership.

as allega ons of financial infrac on leveled against the government by the audit firm were weighty and they are genera ng controversies in the state.

Sally Tibbot Consul ng firm was contracted by the Osun State Government in April 2023 to verify and validate the state’s payroll system, covering civil servants, local government workers, educators, state-owned instu ons and pensioners.

The audit revealed 8,452 ghost workers, resul ng in an alleged annual payroll fraud of N13.7 billion, a claim the state government, however refuted and reportedly called on the Independent Corrupt

Prac ces and other related offences Commission (ICPC) to wade into it.

It was gathered that the state government had contacted ICPC to inves gate the ma er as dust is being raised in the state over the ma er.

The opposi on poli cal par es, especially the APC are also using the audit report to condemn the government of Adeleke.

For the gorvernorship candidate of the APC, Mr Bola Oyebamiji he currently faces serious hurdles within his poli cal party as a fac on loyal to the former Deputy Governor of the state and a gorvernorship aspirant of the party, senator Iyiola Omisore

has con nued to distance itself from all the ac vi es of Oyebamiji and those of the party.

Although the leaders of the party under the auspices of APC Elders Caucus otherwise known as Igbimo Agba had visited Omisore and pleaded with him to support the gorvernorship candidate, Omisore and his loyalists have not yielded.

Recently the former Governor of the state and current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola together with Oyebamiji met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja. Poli cal observers are

Art/Culture

Firewood From The Past: Fuel For Today’s Decisions

IN the quiet corners of many African homes, par cularly in rural towns across Osun State, the use of firewood remains a common sight — a prac cal link between the past and present. But beyond its u lity, firewood carries metaphorical weight. As our elders o en say, “You don’t discard the firewood of yesterday — it might be dry enough to light today’s fire.” This proverb, layered in wisdom, speaks volumes about the relevance of history in shaping our current decisions.

In a me when modern society is in a hurry to forget its roots, the firewood of our past — the lessons, experiences, and hard-won wisdom — is more important than ever. Africa, and by extension Osun State, stands at a crossroads where poli cal, economic, and social decisions demand not just speed

but depth. And depth can only come from looking back to look forward.

Our ancestors understood the importance of pa ence, community, and sustainability. They built se lements that respected the land, se led disputes under the shade of trees, and passed down values through oral tradi on and appren ceship. While the world today is driven by algorithms and ar ficial intelligence, the decision to embrace certain innova ons — or reject others — must be guided by the firewood of cultural insight and genera onal knowledge.

For example, consider how tradi onal construcon techniques adapted to Osun’s climate and resources: mud walls that kept homes cool, thatched roofs made from local palms, and compounds designed for communal living. Today, as housing crises mount

and the climate grows more erra c, modern architects are beginning to rediscover these “outdated” techniques — only to realise they were ahead of their me. What we thought was backward was simply rooted in sustainable wisdom.

In poli cs too, our historical firewood is essenal. Many of the leadership challenges we face today — from governance lapses to disconnecon from the people — can be traced to a break in the chain of mentorship and memory. In the old Oyo empire and other Yoruba poli es, leadership was deeply ed to accountability and service. Kings ruled with councils, chiefs were not above reproach, and every public figure was reminded of the transience of power. Imagine how different today’s governance might look if such principles were more than ceremonial.

of the view that issues surroundings the forthcoming gorvernorship elec on in the state would form the center of their discussion during the mee ng.

But the decision of Omisore to boyco party ac vi es and also shun Oyebamiji is giving concern to many loyalists of the party as this may affect the chances of the party, considering the fact that Omisore has a good number of supporters spread across the state.

Also, the choice of the deputy governorship candidate may be a serious hurdle for Oyebamiji as it was reported that the party is yet to settle on the choice of Oyebamiji ‘s running mate.

Although the name of the former Chief Whip of the state House of Assembly, Hon Tunde Olatunji was released by INEC as the APC deputy governorship candidate, it was rumoured that Olatunji may not emerge the deputy governorship candidate as he’s not the choice of the leaders of the party.

Unless something urgent is done, the pharmacy have a strong ba le to fight on the choice of the deputy governorship candidate as many interests are springing up almost on daily basis within the leadership of the party as regards who will be the running mate to Oyebamiji.

Young people, in par cular, must not see history as a boring subject locked in textbooks. History is alive. It is the rhythm of bata drums during fes vals, the folktales told under moonlight, and the cau onary stories of past poli cal errors. If properly harnessed, these become compasses in a world spinning faster than we can follow.

Yet, we must be cauous. Not all firewood from the past burns clean. Some ideas — especially those rooted in division, supers on, or injus ce — must be le behind. The art is in knowing which logs to burn and which to discard. This requires wisdom, dialogue, and a willingness to learn

from both our triumphs and our traumas.

As Osun con nues to evolve — in governance, development, and iden ty — we must hold fast to the wisdom in our roots. Our decision-making must not be solely reac ve but reflec ve. Before we leap, we must ask: What did our forebears do in similar situa ons? What worked, and what failed? Where is the ancient ember that can s ll ignite progress? In every sense, firewood from the past is fuel for today’s decisions. Let us not lose it in our rush to modernity. Let us dry it well, stack it wisely, and light the fires of a be er, more grounded future.

How Armed Robbery Suspect Died In Osun Police Net 17 Months After Arrest

A50-year-old armed robbery suspect, Solomon Michael has reportedly died in police custody.

Michael died 17 months a er his arrest, OSUN DEFENDER gathered.

The deceased was arrested alongside three other suspects on May 29, 2024 at about 2:00am in Ede for allegedly robbing residents of the community.

Other suspects are Sunday Emeka (40), Sunday Felix (45) and Ebere Nwoye (32).

They were arraigned before a Magistrate Court, si ng in Ede on August 24, 2024 on 15 count charges bordering on armed robbery, conspiracy and possession of dangerous weapons.

OSUN DEFENDER learnt that while three other gang-members were remanded in the Correc onal Centres, Micheal was rejected by both Ilesa and Ile-Ife correc onal centres due to his deteriora ng health condi on.

He was said to have suffered fracture which paralysed his body a er he was involved in motorbike accidents during one of his robbery operaons.

The medium gath-

ered that the Magistrate ordered that Michael be kept in custody of the Osun State Police Command a er he was rejected.

It was further gathered that the family of the suspect abandoned him since he was arrested.

“We first took him and other members of his gang to Ilesa prison in July 2024 but he was rejected while three others were remanded in the prison. He was also rejected at Ile-Ife correc-

onal facility because of his condi on.

“In August 2024, the court ordered that he should be kept in our custody. It has been over a year now, the police have been feeding him. His family members have abandoned him. He was not admi ed to the correc onal centres because of his condi on.

He was once involved in an accident and couldn’t walk since then.

“The prisons said they cannot admit him because he won’t be able

Protests Rock Osogbo, Ejigbo...

•Continued from Page 1

doesn’t have access to electricity since eight months ago. This is not good for us, it’s affec ng our economy as many arsans have turned themselves to Okada riders as a result of bad electricity in our community please help us,” he wrote.

Another resident, Sa’eed Bakare wrote: “I appreciate the concern raised about the electricity situa on in Ikirun. It is indeed a serious issue, especially for those of us whose daily survival and businesses depend directly on power supply within the town.

“However, we also need to be honest with ourselves — the reality is that not everyone feels the impact of this challenge in the same way. While some may have alterna ves or sources

of livelihood outside the town, many youths and small business owners here face this struggle every single day.”

In addi on, the Network of Civil Society Groups in Osun State has also condemned the persistent and worsening electricity supply in Osogbo and its neighbouring communi es.

According to the group, for a long while, residents, ar sans, traders and businesses have been subjected to prolong darkness and severe economic hardship.

In a statement jointly signed by Olowu Emmanuel of the Social Economic and Civil Rights Advocacy (SECRA), Tobiloba Richards Agboola of the Good Governance Ini a ve (GGI), Raufu Sodiq Akinkunmi (Success) of the Youths for

Be er Nigeria, Olanrewaju Stephen of Centre for Accountability and Democracy and Janet Olayemi Gbadebo of the Grassroots Watch, the situa on goes beyond rou ne outages.

The group demands “quick restora on of stable electricity supply across Osogbo and its environs within the next 48 hours.”

Meanwhile, IBEDC management in a public announcement on Tuesday, a ributed the problem to a direct consequence of reduced energy alloca on, adding that it is engaging with relevant stakeholders to facilitate enhanced energy allocaon as soon as supply condi ons, par cularly gas availability to genera on companies improve.

police source stated.

The Osun Police Public Rela ons Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi is yet to respond to inquiry by OSUN DEFENDER at the me of filing this report.

Michael and the trio had armed themselves with dangerous weapons and robbed residents and students of Federal Polytechnics, Ede.

The vic ms include, Oyedokun Samad Ayomide, Adeyemi Olanrewaju Isaac, Adefemi Kehinde Solomon, Adeyemi Taiwo Peter, Owoseni Sodiq Timileyin and Yusuff Abdulrahman.

Others are Okunola Taiwo Muliu, Ali Timothy, Alih Monday Segun, Muritala Roqeeb Tunde, Azeez I. Olukayode, Adeseye Olamide, Olayinka Olamide Ibrahim and Adebayo Pius Oluwabukunmi. Oluwabukunmi was shot on his leg during the opera on.

“He eventually gave up the ghost early this year and his remains has been deposited at the morgue. His family has refused to show up,” a

to go to the bathroom himself. They claimed that he would be a burden on them. The prison clinic does not have the necessary facility to take care of him. He has become a cell lord. He now charges new suspects in cell and uses the money to eat. The court is also on strike, we cannot take him to court to con nue his trial.

Exhibits recovered from the suspects include: mobile phones, TVS Lady bikes, Power banks, vehicles, cash, laptops, shoes and clothes among others.

Osun Police Command Commissions Oyan Police Division

OSUN State command of the Nigeria Police has commissioned the newly built Police divisional headquarters in Oyan, Odo-O n Local Government Area of Osun State.

This, the police said was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen security architecture and enhance effec ve policing at the grassroots.

The Divisional Headquarters, fully built and equipped by the Nigeria Police Force, is designed to provide a modern, conducive and opera onally efficient environment for officers and men.

The Police Public Rela ons Officer (PPRO) for the state police command said the facility will significantly improve response me, intelligence gathering, crime prevenon strategies and overall service delivery to the people of Oyan and its adjoining communi es.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the state Commissioner of Police described the project

as a demonstra on of the Inspector-General of Police’s commitment to infrastructural development, personnel welfare, and community-oriented policing.

He emphasized that the new Division will serve as a strategic hub for maintaining law and order, protec ng lives and property, and fostering stronger collabora on between the police and members of the public.

The Commissioner further assured residents that the Command remains resolute in its man-

date to combat criminality in all its forms and called on community leaders, youths, and stakeholders to con nue partnering with the Police by providing mely and credible informa on.

He urged members of the public to make effecve use of the Division and to support officers in the discharge of their lawful du es.

He stated that the commissioning of the Oyan Divisional Headquarters marks another milestone in the sustained drive of the Nigeria Police Force towards modern, responsive, and professional policing.

FRIDAY, MARCH 06, 2026

Appointment: Redeemer’s University Felicitates Pastor Folu Adeboye

Shola Aderinto

THE Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, has extended warm congratula ons to Pastor (Mrs) Folu Adeboye on her appointment as Chancellor of Caleb University, Imota, Lagos. The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Shadrach Olufemi Akindele, led the management team to felicitate Pastor Adeboye, describing her as a revered Mother in Israel.

The dis nguished honour follows her conferment with Honorary Doctor of Humanity (Honoris

Causa) at the Caleb University’s 15th Convoca on Ceremony.

He said the appointment is a testament to Pastor Adeboye’s life devoted to service, Godliness, leadership, family development, youth mentorship and naon-building.

“She has exemplified uncommon grace, strength and wisdom in suppor ng her husband’s ministry and as a compassionate leader,” he added.

Osun Guber: NYSC Assures Credible Service As INEC Holds Expanded Stakeholders’ Meeting

Michael Bamigbola

OSUN State Coordinator of the Naonal Youths Service Corps (NYSC) Mr Ekeng Kubiangha has reaffirmed the Scheme’s readiness to deploy well-trained and disciplined Corps Members for the forthcoming 2026 governorship elec on in the state.

The NYSC state coordinator gave the assurance during an Expanded Stakeholders’ Mee ng convened by the Independent Na-

onal Electoral Commission (INEC) in the state ahead of the formal opening of elec oneering campaigns by poli cal par es par cipa ng in the poll slated for August 15, 2026.

The mee ng held at the INEC office also had in attendance poli cal leaders and other stakeholders.

In his remarks, Kubiangha emphasized that all present were cri cal stakeholders in the electoral process and must collecvely safeguard its integrity.

He stressed the need for strict adherence to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) guiding collabora on between INEC and NYSC, no ng that Corps Members engaged for elecon du es are ‘our children’ and must be treated with dignity and care.

He described as unacceptable any act of harassment or molesta on of Corps Members in the course of their na onal assignment, urging polical actors and supporters to conduct themselves re-

sponsibly.

Kubiangha assured stakeholders that Corps Members would undergo comprehensive training and would be properly briefed and restrained to ensure professional conduct.

He also reiterated the scheme’s commitment to credible service delivery.

Besides, he called on Electoral Officers to maintain a symbio c working rela onship with NYSC Officials involved in the elec on process to ensure seamless coordina on.

Assuring the gathering of the Scheme’s preparedness, the NYSC boss pledged that he and his management team would move round to monitor the exercise and provide necessary support throughout the elec on period.

In his opening remarks, the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state , Dr Mu u Agboke, assured that the commission would ensure strict compliance with the legal framework governing elec ons. Agboke urged poli cal

Expert Makes Case For Mental Health Development

•Says Mental Health Must Become Central To Africa’s Health Security Agenda

Michael Bamigbola

AS African countries con nue to strengthen their health security systems following the COVID 19 pandemic, public health systems expert, Faremi Ayodeji has called for urgent integra on of mental health resilience into laboratory systems and disease preparedness frameworks.

Ayodeji, who serves as an In country Quality Management Systems Auditor under the Global Fund RSSH GC7 and C19RM grants, said that while technical improvements across the con nent have been commendable, the psychological wellbeing of the health workforce remains insufficiently addressed.

“Over the past decades, we have made major progress in strengthening laboratory infrastructure, improving accredita on readiness, and expanding disease surveillance networks,” he said.

“However, we must now confront an overlooked reality. Burnout, leadership fa gue, and mental strain within our health workforce are growing concerns that directly affect system performance,” he added.

According to him, Africa’s post pandemic recovery requires more than rebuilding structures. It requires rebuilding people.

He explained that laboratory professionals, outbreak responders and pro-

gramme managers o en operate under sustained pressure with limited psychosocial support systems in place.

“Technical systems are important, but they are powered by human beings,” Ayodeji stated.

He said “If we want resilient health systems, mental resilience must be ins tu onalized rather than treated as a personal coping responsibility.”

Drawing from his experience mentoring laboratory teams across Nigeria

and other West African countries, he emphasized the direct rela onship between workforce morale and measurable quality outcomes.

His words “When teams feel supported, quality indicators improve. Sustainability improves. Accountability improves. We cannot separate workforce wellbeing from system performance.”

“As Africa advances its health security agenda, mental health must move

from the margins to the center of policy design,” he said. “We cannot connue to invest in infrastructure without equally inves ng in the resilience of the people who sustain that infrastructure.”

“The future of our laboratories and public health ins tu ons will not only be determined by funding and technology. It will be determined by how well we protect and empower the professionals who hold our systems together.”

Ayodeji further urged con nental ins tu ons, including the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Preven on, to embed mental health consideraons into broader health systems strengthening strategies.

He concluded that the next phase of Africa’s health security evolu on must recognize that sustainable preparedness depends on both technical excellence and emo onally resilient leadership.

par es to conduct issuebased campaigns within the ambit of the Cons tuon, the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines, warning against ac ons capable of undermining peace and democra c stability in the state.

In a symbolic gesture reinforcing transparency and legal awareness, the REC distributed copies of the new Electoral Act to party agents present at the mee ng.

A major highlight of the mee ng was a lecturetled ‘Campaign Beyond the Box - Working Within the Frame’ delivered by Prof. Anthonia Taiye OkosieSimbine, former Na onal Commissioner in charge of Elec on and Party Monitoring at INEC and current Director-General of the Nigeria Ins tute of Social and Economic Research (NISER), Ibadan.

The lecture examined the cri cal role of poli cal campaigns in deepening democracy, while stressing strict compliance with cons tu onal provisions, the Electoral Act, and INEC regula ons. Prof. OkosieSimbine highlighted prohibited campaign conduct and explored strategic campaign dimensions that promote peaceful engagement, issue-based discourse, and voter educaon. She urged poli cal actors to focus on policydriven campaigns rather than divisive rhetoric, emphasizing that sustainable democra c growth depends on responsible poli cal behavior.

The interac ve session featured goodwill addresses by service chiefs and other cri cal stakeholders present.

IJUMAT SERMON JUMAT SERMON

By IMAAM MUSA

OLADAPO RAJI

By IMAAM MUSA OLADAPO RAJI

Importance Of (Laylatul Qadr) The Night Of Decree

seek refuge in Allah from the devil the accursed and I start in the name of Allah, The Most Beneficent, The Most Merciful. I tes fy that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah. He whom Allah guides, he is the rightly guided; but he whom He sends astray, for him you will find no Waliy (guiding friend) to lead him (to the right path). I also tes fy that Prophet Muhammad is His messenger. May His benediction be upon His (Muhammad) soul, members of His household, His companions and all those who follow His way ll the day of Judgment.

Just as the popular axiom says that whatever has a beginning must have an end. The month of Ramadan is gradually running to the end. And by implica on, the two third (2/3) of it remains few days. Hopefully, you and I shall be among those that will witness the last one third (1/3) which is the pinnacle of it all. The Prophet had once described Ramadan period thus: the first ten days as mercy; it’s second ten as period of forgiveness and the last ten days as when Allah sets the fas ng Muslim free from the hell fire. However, this should not be misconstrued to be an automa c cket for one’s entry into the Paradise. There are some condi ons that govern it. Even though Allah is Benevolent during this period, He s ll reserves the right not to forgive these set of people according the tradi on of the Prophet: (1) Drunkard (2) Disobedient child to his Parent (3) He who does not keep good rela on with his kith and kin (4) He who keeps malice. These set of people will not enjoy that benefit.

powerful. Out of His grace, He gave the indexes in the Qur’an that lead us to discover the night of Power and that night is be er than a thousand months. He says: “Verily, we have sent it (this Qur’an) down in the night of Al-Qadr (Decree) and what will make you know what the night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is?

The night of Al-Qadr (Decree) is be er than a thousand months (worshipping Him a thousand months i.e. 83 years and 4 months).

Therein descend the angels and the Ruuh (Jibril (Gabriel)) by Allah’s Permission with all Decree. (All that night), there is peace (and Goodness from Allah to His believing slaves) un l the appearance of dawn.” Quran 97:1-5

Even though, it is on record that a number of people claimed to have seen the night among the last seven nights in the hadith as reported by ibn Umar (RAA), he states that some companions of the Holy Prophet (SAW) were able to see the Blessed Night among the last seven nights of the Month of Ramadan in dream. On this, the Holy Prophet (SAW) remarked yours have confirmed the existence of the Blessed Night among the last seven nights of Ramadan. Therefore, anybody who seeks the Blessed Night should look for it among the last seven nights of the month of Ramadan.

Sermon By Rev’d Petkola Ibitowa

Significance Of Lent

LENT is a 40-day season of sober reflection, spiritual growth, and preparation for the celebration of Jesus Christ’s resurrection It serves as a “spiritual wilderness” where believers set aside earthly comforts to focus on their need for a Saviour.

Text: Matthew 4:1-11 (The Temptation of Jesus) “Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil… He fasted forty days and forty nights…” — Matthew 4:1-2

The Biblical Significance of “40 Days” The duration of Lent is modeled after significant biblical periods of testing, purification, and preparation:

Jesus in the Wilderness: After His baptism, Jesus fasted for 40 days and was tempted by Satan before beginning His public ministry (Matthew 4:1-2).

Moses on Mount Sinai: Moses fasted for 40 days and nights while receiving the Law from God (Exodus 34:28).

Elijah’s Journey: The prophet Elijah traveled for 40 days to reach the mountain of God, Horeb, on a single meal provided by an angel (1 Kings 19:8).

The Israelites’ Wandering: Israel spent 40 years in the wilderness to be humbled and tested before entering the Promised Land (Exodus 16:35).

Why Observe Lent?

1. Jesus Set the Example “He fasted forty days… being tempted… — Matthew 4:1-2. Jesus didn’t need repentance, but He modeled dependence on God.

2. Old Testament Precedents

Moses: 40 days on Sinai (Ex 34:28)

Elijah: 40 days

Israel: 40 years in wilderness (Num 33:38) Preparation for God’s mighty acts.

3. Our Hearts Need Resetting

“Create in me a clean heart, O God…” — Psalm 51:10

We’re fragile, sinful, and finite. Lent = spiritual detox.

Almsgiving (Generous Giving): Shifting focus from self to the needs of others as an act of justice and love. “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice... to share your food with the hungry?” - (Isaiah 58:6-7)

Lenten Practices To Transform You Fasting What: Food, social media, Netflix, etc.

Why: “When you fast… your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” — Matt 6:18 Start small: Skip a meal, give the money to charity.

Prayer What: Daily quiet time, journaling, Psalms. Why: “Ask, and it will be given to you…” — Matt 7:7

Example: Use the Lord’s Prayer as a guide.

Giving What: Money, time, skills (Gen 14:18-20; 2 Cor 9:7). Why: “Give, and it will be given to you…” — Luke 6:38

Repentance & Reconciliation

What: Confess, forgive, restore (Matt 5:23-24). Why: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful to forgive…” — 1 John 1:9

Action: Reconcile with someone today.

From Wilderness To Victory

Jesus faced temptation → emerged victorious (Matt 4:11). You’ll face trials → but “greater is He who is in you” (1 John 4:4). “Let us run with endurance the race set before us.” — Heb 12: 1

The Necessity Of The Wilderness

The Lead-In: Scripture says Jesus was “led by the Spirit” into the wilderness. The wilderness wasn’t a mistake; it was an appointment.

The Purpose: Lent is our intentional wilderness. It is where the noise of the world fades so the voice of God becomes clear.

Bible Verse: “I will lead her into the wilderness and speak tenderly to her.” (Hosea 2:14)

LaylatulQadr: Many translators have tried to give a concise meaning to the phrase in an a empt to convince readers of what actually Allah means by it. Some call it “Night of Power, Night of Decree, Night of Majesty”. All these are just a ma er of seman cs; it is only the original language (i.e. Arabic) that can convey its real meaning.

LaylatulQadr is just a single night that comes but once in a year. Allah says “Therein (the night) is decreed every ma er of ordainments”, Quran 44:4. Every ma er, i.e. the ma er of deaths, births, provisions, calamies, etc. for the whole (coming) year as decreed by Allah. If you like, you can describe it as a night of stock taking or night of budgeting. What makes the night so magnificent is the revela on of the Holy Qur’an therein.

The period of LaylatulQadr could be further described as one of the seasons where the adherents of Islam realise a bumper harvest. Bumper harvest here does not mean what one realises from farm product but the mercy and grace of Allah that the period envelops. Allah is so merciful that when the night is pointed at in the Qur’an as being

In another place in the Qur’an, Allah says: “We sent it (this Qur’an) down on a blessed night…” Quran 54:3. With the two quoted references above, the night remains ambiguous and it should be so stressful to look for such if not for His mercy. Allah then scaled it down to a par cular month in the year. He says: “The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong)”. Quran 2 185. Therea er, the Prophet (SAW) further scaled it down to the last ten night of the month. When he was probed further by his companions, narrated by Aishah (RAA), Allah’s messenger said: “Search for the Night of Qadr in the odd nights of the last ten nights of Ramadan” - 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 29th.

Among what makes the period unique is the special a en on paid to it by the Prophet. One He used to embark on a RETREAT in the mosque during the period. A number of tradi ons confirmed this. Ibn Umar (RAA) states that the holy Prophet (SAW) used to re re to mosque for devo on and abstenon during the last ten days of the month of Ramadan (Bukhari and Muslim).

•To be continued next week

•Imaam Musa Oladapo Raji, the Chief Imaam of Telemu, Ola-Oluwa LGA, Osun State.

4. Focus on Jesus “He humbled himself…” — Philippians 2:8 Lent leads to Easter — reminds us of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice.

A comprehensive Lenten journey typically focuses on three primary spiritual disciplines: Repentance (Metanoia): A sincere “turning back” to God.

“Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate... rend your heart and not your garments” (Joel 2:12-13).

Fasting and Abstinence: Denying the flesh to strengthen the spirit and rely on God as our ultimate sustainer. “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God” - (Matthew 4:4).

“We don’t observe Lent just to “be better people.” We observe it so we can emerge more equipped to serve God’s Kingdom. The wilderness is the training ground for the Resurrection”

The Nature of the Struggle (The Three Temptations) In the wilderness, Jesus was tested in three areas where we often fail. Lent invites us to reclaim these areas:

Physical Appetite (Bread): Turning stones to bread. Do we live for our comforts or for God’s Word? - Matthew 4:4

Identity and Pride (The Temple Pinnacle): Testing God’s love. Do we trust God’s character, or do we demand signs to prove He cares? - Matthew 4:7

Power and Priority (The Kingdoms of the World): Worshiping the gift rather than the Giver. What have we placed on the throne of our hearts? - Matthew 4:10

The Weaponry Of The Wilderness

The Word of God: Every time Jesus was attacked, He responded with “It is written.” Lent is a season to “starve” the flesh and “feed” on Scripture. The Power of Fasting: Fasting isn’t about punishment; it’s about hunger. It creates a physical hunger that reminds us of our spiritual starvation without Christ. “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice...”(Isaiah 58:6)

The Outcome: Strength for the Mission

The Return: Jesus didn’t stay in the desert. He returned “in the power of the Spirit” - (Luke 4:14).

The Application: We don’t observe Lent just to “be better people.” We observe it so we can emerge more equipped to serve God’s Kingdom. The wilderness is the training ground for the Resurrection.

Expert Makes Case For Mental Health Development

LAST Tuesday in Benin City, Edo State, an incident that presents a great threat to our country’s democra c efforts took place. It started with gun tro ng, uniden fied men storming the African Democra c Congress (ADC) State Headquarters very violently.

The a ack came shortly a er Mr Olumide Akpata former Na onal President of the Nigerian Bar Associa on (NBA) and Labour Party’s governorship candidate in the last gubernatorial elec on in Edo State, had been officially welcomed into the fold of the ADC as a new member.

Reliable accounts say the ceremony had in a endance poli cians like Chief John Odigie- Oyegun, a former governor and an ADC chie ain, Mr Peter Obi presiden al candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elec on, Prof Osunbor a former governor of Edo State and frontline Edo poli cian, Senator Roland Owie and a host from of others.

The unknown gunmen were said to have raided the Edo State headquarters of the ADC. When they could not find their targets they shot and wounded some party faithful before going on to transfer their aggression at the GRA home of Chief John Oyegun where the party leadership had gone, a er the ceremony that welcomed Mr Akpata into the party had been hurriedly concluded.

The en re programme of formally accep ng Mr Olumide Akpata into the African Democra c Congress, had had to be hurriedly carried out. Security reports had suggested a possible a ack on the venue was imminent. That explained why media interviews were not granted by any of the top members of the ADC including Mr Peter Obi at the party’s state headquarters.

The marauding gunmen were said to have raided the home of the governor of Edo State in the aborted third republic diarchy system of government General Ibrahim Babangida introduced under the two party system the country then, namely the Na onal Republican Conven on (NRC) and the Social Democra c Party (SDP). Chief John Odigie-Oyegun served Edo as governor under now defunct SDP.

Much later on in life the chief also serveed as Na onal Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He it was who was removed as the party’’s Na onal Chairman before Comrade Adams Oshiomhole leadership came on board.

At Chief Odigie-Oyegun’s house which is said to be very, very close to Government House where the State Governor Mr Monday Okpabohlor resides. The gunmen rode to the venue and fired gun shots on several cars that were parked outside the building. Many vehicles had their wind shields shattered, several others were bullet-ridden. The good news is that no casual es were recorded in those two separate incidents which had common targets to perhaps neutralize.

Well, Edo State is one en ty in Nigeria whose poli cal barometer makes it aflash

“Ever

since last Tuesday clash gun-trotting and shooting incidents in Benin City, claims and counter claims have been made while every body has tried to give reasons why it happened”

By SMOLETTE ADETOYESE SHITTU-ALAMU

This Threat To Democracy Must Stop

point o en in considering states or areas that could be cause for concerns to any Electoral Umpire or Elec on Management Boyd.

Poli cs in Edo State is not for the chicken-hearted nor for the lily-livered. Edo is always a hard nut to crack, given the very nature of the different ethnic groups that make up the state.

The average Edo man or woman is not a “sme sme” person. Edos don’t demonstrate nor present themselves as “cheap cheap” people. They are not “eran riro”. They are ever “gra gra” type of people and always love to dominate their environment. The threshold of an Edo man in ge ng temperamental is rather high.

In the layman’s language, Edo people don’t take trash. An average Edo person is ever self asser ve.They don’t take nonsense nor tolerate bullshit. Whoever, therefore, must come to equity with them must do so not only withclean hands but a clean and clear mind set too.

Hence the African Democra c Congress’s poli cal event in Benin had the ability to displace the poli cal equilibrium of that state. To all intents and purposes, that was a bad

The Big Picture

Pstart or beginning to our na onal journey to the forth coming general elec ons in January 2027 as our law-makers have advised the Independent Na onal Electoral Commission (INEC), not to allow a sensi ve na onal subject or project such as the general elec ons to fall into the Islamic month of Ramadan in the fast approaching year 2027.

As one state that is always a hot bed in Nigeria’s poli cal ma ers, it is important that all poli cians be advised to exercise care and restraint in everything they do so that the ordinary words they exchange do not escalate ma ers nega vely.

Ever since last Tuesday clash gun-tro ng and shoo ng incidents in Benin City, claims and counter claims have been made while every body has tried to give reasons why it happened.

Those blaming the Edo State government as being responsible for it, do premise the logic of their posi on on a statement the governor made last July. It was to the extent that Mr Peter Obi was not wanted in Edo state and that if he ever wanted to visit, that state he must inform the governor of the State. That me, the governor amidst dancing and banter throwing had spoken inter alia:“This is not

a threat. If he (referring to Peter Obi) wants to come here he must inform me!” For that statement he made some eight or so months ago, many have considered it as one in bad taste. The opposi on in Edo State think Mr. Monday Okpebholor should not have gone that route at all.

But watching Prince Kassim Afegbua, Edo State Commissioner for Informa on defend the APC government in Edo State on Channels TV, he put the blame at the door step of both the ADC and the Labour Party in the state. Afegbua holds the view that there is a leadership crisis within both the ADC and the Labour Party on their own.

He suggests that the issue could have come out as a result of the internal wranglings within the new ADC leadership on one side and a similar one within the Labour Party on the other. Afegbua thinks that each of the leaderships in the two poli cal par es, feels short-changed by the exit of Mr. Olumide Akapata from the party and also his admission into the ADC.

He drew the a en on of the public to the wranglings that took place within the ADC on Monday 23rd February which ra led Benin City in a way. The Commissioner of Informaon in Edo State told Nigerians that Governor Monday Okpabohlor has directed the State Police Commissioner to inves gate the matter thoroughly and give him a report on the violence.

While there has been no formal report of the violence especially from the Labour Party angle, the truth of the ma er is that there are some under currents within the Labour Party that have only recently led the Nenadi Usman fac on of the party to take over as the court has confirmed that fac on as the authen c Na onal Execu ve Council, and has the right to take over and run the na onal headquarters of the party in Abuja.

•Read full article on www.osundefender.com

Striker is not the opinion of the Columnist featured above children and future genera ons.

AST and present, consistently; and especially in periods leading up to elecons, we are stridently reminded about our different “tribes and tongues,” our worship and God that differ; our sex that differ; our genera on that differ and just about anything but the fact that THE MAJORITY of us have TOGETHER suffered untold hardship under governments that promise to make our lives be er than they met it but always end up with more millions dead from hunger, illnesses and insecurity; while we keep buying into their divide-and-rule schemes.

The focus today thereby is that we need to begin to think holis cally, sensibly, globally and dispassionately about causes, effects, problems and solu ons to our trials and tribula on. This piece will only give one counsel, one instance that makes holis c thinking paramount more than ever, and give a sincere conclusive admoni on to all those who s ll have patrio c blood flowing in their veins.

The counsel: henceforth, when discussing how a na on will be free from trials, misery and tribula on and achieve genuine democracy, development and prosperity. PLEASE LEAVE BEHIND YOUR RELIGION, YOUR TRIBE, YOUR AGE, YOUR SEX, YOUR PARTY AND POLITICAL AMBITION – AND COME TO THE PARTY WITH OPEN MIND AND PATRIOTIC INTENTION: for the sake of your children, their

The instance: In order for you to know you are dealing with something bigger than a president, some governors and legislators or poli cal par es; that you are dealing with a merciless system that you must defeat; to whom MAJORITY of our “leaders” across board and par es are miserable slaves, I quote the reported experience of the eminent Maitama Sule of Kano: “During the civil war, we were sent out to campaign for our cause. I went to the United States and I remember Alhaji Shehu Shagari went to the Scandinavian countries.

When we returned, we compared notes before submi ng our reports to Gen Yakubu Gowon, the then Head of State. Shagari told me he met a common friend of ours and this is what the man told him: ‘We know why you are here, you have come to seek our favour and support for your cause. But let me tell you, we do not care about you, all we care about are your resources.

If we could get robots to exploit your resources for us to develop our economy, we would not mind a lot of you being eliminated. You Nigerians are a peculiar case; you have the popula on, resources and we know your resources more than you do know about them.

All you need in Nigeria is a fairly long period of say ten to twenty years and you will be able to make it. You will become a very strong economy, will join the economic powers, but you need this period of uninterrupted peace

and stability. But we will not allow it because within that period, you will use your brains, and Nigeria has got brains. You will work hard and you are hard working people, you will exploit your resources and you have them in abundance and you will develop your economy.

Developing your economy needs market and you have no problem with that because of your huge popula on, in addi on, you will have the en re West African region as your market. If that happens, you will be a thorn in our flesh; we would lose our source of raw materials because you would be using them in your factories. We would lose our market because you will be the market and also get other markets in West Africa.

So, even a er your civil war, we would create one problem a er the other for you so that you may not enjoy the peace and stability that will enable you develop and become such a strong country.’” – Alh Yusuf Maitama Sule in his last interview with The Guardian published on July 28, 2013.

The Conclusion: Let us all borrow sense and find out more about this and related issues – on governance in Nigeria since then ll date. Let all patriots across all primordial divisions come together on the basis of an acon plan to redeem the FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA. We will not be the first na on so trampled and we will not be the last.

A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step and the sooner taken the sooner the arrival at Promised Land.

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