Osun Defender Online Version of February 28, 2025

•Some of the events covered by OSUN DEFENDER since it was founded in 2005

20 Years Of Putting The People First

IN the course of two decades, OSUN DEFEND ER has produced the forum for discourses, as well as analy cal insights into the affairs of Osun State and by extension, the Southwest.

This has been beneficial to the development of the state through steady and turbulence seasons.

ogbo, Osun State.

The OSUN DE FENDER, founded in 2005, is a privately owned tabloid newspaper which publishes news about Osun State, Nigeria, as well as na onal and other news. It is published by Moremi Publishing House Ltd of Os-

Nigeria today faces a myriad of challenges and the underlying causes of under achievement will have to be tackled. In the course of the years ahead, OSUN DEFENDER will, as always, connue to proffer “alterna ve perspecves in guiding the discourse and pro-

viding real solu ons to tackle the core issues of our me. We urge our readers to remain steadfast in their support and ask present and poten al adver sers to rally round to ensure the connued success and sustainability of this important project. We thank you all.

Inside OSUN DEFENDER Today

•LG Crisis: Day Gov Makinde

Stirs The Hornet’s Nest In Osun

•Tributes As Opinion Leaders

Celebrate Osun Defender @20

• Adeleke Accused Of Changing LG Accounts Signatories

LG Crisis: Day Gov Makinde Stirs The Hornet’s Nest In Osun

GOVERNOR of Oyo state, Engineer Seyi Makinde, may have s rred the hornet’s nest with his outburst on Sunday, February 23, 2025, that the Federal Government is behind the local government crisis in Osun State.

Makinde, who a ended the sworn-in ceremony held at the Osun State Government House, OkeFia, alongside Chairman of the PDP Governor’s Forum, Balan Muhammed of Bauchi State, noted that the ongoing crisis in the state is a federal arrangement.

Expressing surprise over the violence which broke out on Monday, February 17, 2025, the Oyo State Governor said he felt the need to come around to sound a warning in order to prevent a repeat of history.

“We don’t want wild west again. They should stay away from this zone. We want to peacefully provide the dividend of democracy to the people.

“They should not resort to self help even if there

is a court judgment. They should not think because they have Federal might. This is a Federal arrangement. I will stop here.”

But the Governor, while congratula ng the newly sworn-in chairmen, urged them to fulfil their campaign promises to their people at the grass root.

According to Makinde, “This is an opportunity for you to deliver to the grassroots. This will be your stepping stones to higher posi ons and the reward for hardwork is more opportuni es.”

In his address, Governor Ademola Adeleke urged the new chairmen and councilors to stay away from council secretariats to avoid clash with those who forcefully occupy the local government secretariats.

“I urge you and your councillors to please stay away from the council secretariats to avoid any clash with those whom the police had aided to forcefully occupy the local government secretariats.

“An Osun State High Court had affirmed the vacancies in both the Chairman and Councilors posi-

ons in all of Osun State Local Governments before your elec on on the 22nd February, 2025.

“We will, therefore, rely on the judiciary to ensure a peaceful removal of those illegally occupying the local government secretariats.

“Please, be pa ent and always abide by the rule of law.”

IGP Commend Osun Police For Peaceful LG Polls Despite Calling For Suspension

TKazeem Badmus era ons, commended the officers who worked relessly over the week to maintain peace and order.

HE InspectorGeneral of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun has commended the Commissioner of Police in Osun, Mohammed Abba, for ensuring a peaceful and secure environment during the state local government elec on.

This was coming a er the Nigeria Police Force advised that last Saturday’s local government elec on should be suspended due to security threats.

In a statement by CSP Yemisi Opalola, police spokesperson, on Wednesday in Osun, Egbetokun gave the commendaon during a visit to the police command on Tuesday.

Opalola said the IGP was in Osun to supervise and gain a firsthand view of the situa on in the state concerning the recently conducted local government elecon.

She said the IGP, represented by Ari Muhammed Ali, the Deputy InspectorGeneral of Police (DIG) in charge of Op-

“He also commended the Osun Commissioner of Police for his exemplary leadership and role in ensuring a peaceful and secure environment throughout the elec on period.

“He praised the officers and men for their dedica on and hard work and expressed gra tude for

their support,” she said.

OSUN DEFENDER reports that the state government has accused the IGP of siding with the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, to cause mayhem in the state.

Also, the tac cal squad deployed by the IGP to local government councils in the state are s ll there, providing security for the reinstated APC chairmen.

Osun LG Workers Shun APC Chairmen’s Sack Threat, Refuse To Resume Work

DESPITE the direc ve of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Yes/ No Chairmen in Osun State to local government workers demanding they return to their offices within 24 hours, the workers have refused to resume, OSUN DEFENDER gathered.

It would be recalled that the reinstated APC chairmen warned the workers to resume yesterday (Thursday) or have their work determined.

The local government staff have been absent from work a er the direc ve from the Nigeria Labour Congress, Osun Chapter, urging them to stay off work pending when peace returns to the councils.

There has been a poli cal crisis over the control of the local governments by reinstated chairmen of the APC and the newly elected PDP chairmen.

In a video currently circulated on social media, the APC chairmen, flanked by their supporters, emphasised the urgency of the situa on, warning the workers not to allow themselves to be sabotaged by the PDP.

Addressing the workers, one of the chairmen said, “We are back here again on Wednesday but we do not have access to the offices. Don’t allow yourself to be used; they don’t have anything to offer you. You have 24 hours to resume back to

work and open all the doors to the offices, else you may lose your job.”

Also, in a memo by the reinstated chairman of Ifelodun Local Government, Ikirun, Hassan Okanlawon, workers of the council where told to resumed to work yesterday or face sancons.

The memo read, “It has come to my a enon that some staff members have not yet resumed their du es following the Court of Appeal Judgement delivered on February 10, 2025, which reinstated me as the Democracally Elected Council Chairman, along with my Councillors.

“This memo serves as a strong warning that all staff are required to report back to work without fail on February 27, 2025. Failure to comply with this direcve will result in sancons being imposed in accordance with the established Staff Rules and Regula ons.

“Your prompt coopera on and immediate resump on of work are expected to ensure the smooth con nuity of our opera ons and to uphold the rule of law as affirmed by the recent judicial decision.”

However, checks by OSUN DEFENDER showed that the workers did not resume across the local governments.

Speaking with the medium, a staff of Olorunda Local Government who does not want his name in print for fear

of in mida on, said the workers won’t return un l their union leaders direct them to do so.

“The APC chairman threats won’t work and it’s so unfortunate that they are resul ng to threat. We did not just decide not to go to work. It was a direc ve from the Labour union leaders and if they don’t tell us to resume, we won’t.

“Instead of mee ng with the labour union leaders to work things out and show them our lives are secured, they are threatening people with sacking. That is so bad of them.

“If their family members are among us, will they advise that they should go to the war zone? Will the chairman take responsibility if anything happens to any of the local government workers? They are just being selfish.”

Another worker who worked at Boripe local government told OSUN DEFENDER that the workers did not resume at the council.

“We have our WhatsApp pla orm where we communicate and I can tell you no one resumed today (Thursday). Nobody is ready to go and sacrifice himself for a poli cian. Those who died during last week’s Monday crisis have le their families in great sorrow. We will be at home un l our security is guaranteed,” the worker who craved anonymity said.

TWENTY years ago, the founder of Osun Defender embarked on a journey anchored on the impera ve of PUTTING THE PEOPLE FIRST. At the context of that me, it was a bold and necessary move strategic move at a me publica on commenced, the country has been scant into accep ng wholesale the IMF inspired Structural Adjustments Programme. This led to economic dislocaon and plunging living standards.

The founders of Osun Defender provided a convincing “Alternave Perspec ve” to the Structural Adjustments Programme. For the first me in a decade, an emphasis was placed on the need for “Social Capital” and indeed the construc on of a “Social Market Economy” as the basis for sustainable development.

Hitherto, the emphasis has been on a ephem-

Osun Defender 20 Years On!

“In marking 20 years of publica on, we are acutely conscious that the publica on is now a legacy project. It will con nue to be use over the cause of the next 20 years as forum of ideas to guide and guard democracy rights and principles”

eral growth without development. The advent of a media such as Osun Defender redirected the discourse towards a progressive trend. As the Italian Philosopher, Antonio Gramsci pointed out over a century ago the essence of poli cs is

to redirect the territory of debate towards ones own posi on.

Osun Defender has done so admirably as the champion of the voiceless and the le behind.

The paper has also been instrumental in

TheOpinionDiscourse

figh ng against the unjust and an democra c idea of stealing electoral mandate freely given by the people. In Osun State, the publica on was key in mobilising public opinion in the defence of the right to reclaim a stolen mandate. In doing so, the paper showed that the pen was migh er then the sword. There are s ll great ba les ahead in the contest of ideas. The paper will never shrink from its responsibili es as the defender of the peoples mandate .

In marking 20 years of publica on, we are acutely conscious that the publica on is now a legacy project. It will con nue to be use over the cause of the next 20 years as forum of ideas to guide and guard democracy rights and principles. We thank all our teeming readers for their steadfastnes and we will con nue to seek for more commercial support in the decades ahead. Thank you all.

Reimagining Osun State: Political And Developmental Solutions For A Prosperous Future

THE journey of any state is shaped by the vision and ac ons of its leadership, as well as the collec ve efforts of its people. Osun State, with its rich cultural heritage, natural resources, and vibrant youth popula on, stands at the threshold of an exci ng era.

However, to truly unlock its poten al and posi on itself as a beacon of prosperity, we must cri cally examine both the poli cal and developmental solu ons that can pave the way for a brighter future. One of the most cri cal elements for the future of Osun is achieving poli cal stability through transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance.

This requires a leadership that priori ses the needs of the people, encourages public par cipa on, and fosters unity among the diverse ethnic and poli cal groups within the state. Good governance will serve as the founda on upon which economic and social development can flourish.

Poli cal stability is not just about smooth transi ons of power; it’s about crea ng systems that ensure fairness, jusce, and equality for every ci zen.

Transparent elec ons, open lines of communica on between the government and the people, and a consistent commitment to eradica ng corrup on must be non-nego able pillars in our journey forward.

Osun State, like many other regions in Nigeria, must explore avenues for economic diversifica on. Historically dependent on

“The future of Osun lies in fostering strategic partnerships with other states, private sector organisations, and international bodies. Collaborating on initiatives like sustainable agriculture, climate change adaptation, and infrastructure development can accelerate the state’s growth trajectory”

agriculture, Osun can and should begin to tap into sectors such as tourism, technology, and renewable energy.

The state is home to significant tourist sites like the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, which offers tremendous poten al for boos ng its economy through tourism. Developing infrastructure to support this sector will provide jobs, enhance global visibility, and improve living standards for the people.

Furthermore, the youth of Osun constute a majority of the popula on, and tapping into this demographic is key. Crea ng more accessible skill development centers, increasing investment in tech hubs, and encouraging entrepreneurship can catalyze a new wave of innova on.

Ini a ves like micro-lending programs, tech incubators, and voca onal training can equip young people with the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy, while reducing unemployment rates.

Infrastructure Development for Sus-

tainable Growth

A prosperous Osun is one that is equipped with modern infrastructure to support its growing popula on. Roads, hospitals, schools, and reliable public services are the backbone of any progressive society. Inves ng in road networks will connect rural areas to urban centers, allowing for easier access to markets and promo ng the growth of small businesses.

Likewise, modernizing healthcare facili es will ensure that the people of Osun receive the best medical care possible, leading to a healthier and more produc ve workforce.

The state must also focus on developing digital infrastructure to facilitate e-governance, enhance educa onal opportuni es, and promote business growth. With the growing global emphasis on technology, Osun must po-

OSUN DEFENDER

Publisher – Moremi Publishing House Ltd.

Asst. News Editor – Yusuf Oketola

Asst. Features Editor – Kazeem Badmus

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, Promise Point Building, Opposite Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), 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.

si on itself as a hub for innova on by priori zing ICT in schools and developing smart city ini a ves that enhance security, educaon, and business. A truly prosperous Osun must be one that leaves no one behind. Social jus ce should be at the heart of all policies. Addressing dispari es in wealth, gender, and access to opportuni es is essen al for long-term stability and growth. Policies aimed at suppor ng women, people with disabili es, and marginalized communi es will ensure that every Osun cizen has the opportunity to thrive.

•Read full article on www.osundefender.com

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2025 - THURSDAY, MARCH 06, 2025

Tributes As Opinion Leaders Celebrate OSUN DEFENDER @20

Yusuf Oketola

TRIBUTES and messages of support have been flooding in to Osun Defender as the newspaper celebrates its 20 years.

Different stakeholders in the Osun State has joined in celebra ng the newspaper on its landmark achievements and contribu ons to the development of the state over the years of its establishment.

The stakeholders include Civil Society Organisa on, religious and business leaders as well as leading lights in the world of arts and sport.

Commen ng on the ac vi es of the newspaper so far, the chairman, Newspaper and Magazines Distributor Associa on of Nigeria, Osun State, Hon. Muhammed Olaiya (MAO) described Osun Defender as grassroot newspapers that cover all local news and poli cs.

Olaiya, while speaking with the medium, appealed to the management to improve on the quality of news stories and pagina on.

“I want to congratulate the staff and management of Osun Defender on the 20 years anniversary of the newspaper. Osun Defender is a grassroot newspaper that covers all local news and poli cs. On behalf of our members, we appeal to the stakeholders in the state to invest and collect supply to state and local governments.

“Also, we appeal to the management of the organisa on not to relent in holding the government of the day accountable and to improve the quality of news stories and pagina on,” Olaiya

•The Newspaper Liberates People Of Osun – Comrade Waheed Lawal

•Osun Defender Is A Voice To The Voiceless – Ajegunle Traders Association

•The Medium Has Shaped Community Development, Social Justice – Osun CDHR Chairman

•Newspaper Agents Call For Government, Business Patronage

•Comrade Waheed Lawal

asserted. Corrobora ng Olaiya’s comment, the Vice Chaiman, Ajegunle Tradesmen and Ar sans, Alhaji Rasheed Adebisi, described the newspaper as a voice to the voiceless.

He said: “The newspaper is a voice to the voiceless and the less privileged in the society. It always put the people first at all me. It also serves as a watchdog in the society. I implore the establishment to con nue to at all me balance their reports. As we are approaching the 2026 elec on in the state, they should try as much to remain neutral by not suppor ng any poli cal party.”

The Chairman, Com-

mi ee for the Defense of Human Rights (CDHR), Osun Chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Olowu, while giving insights on the role of the newspaper in the last 20 years said:”I congratulate Osun Defender newspaper on the celebra on of its 20th anniversary. Osun Defender has played a pivotal role in shaping public discourse, promo ng transparency, and amplifying the voices of the people in Osun State.

“Through fearless journalism and unwavering commitment to truth, Osun Defender has held public officials accountable, provided a pla orm for diverse opinions, and brought cri cal issues affec ng the people of

Osun State to the forefront.

“Its consistent focus on local governance, community development, and social jus ce has made it a reliable source of informa on and an indispensable voice in the media landscape.

“As the newspaper marks this significant milestone, I call on all stakeholders in Osun State—government instu ons, civil society organiza ons, businesses, and the public—to support Osun Defender in its mission to deliver credible, mely, and peoplecentred news.

“A free and vibrant press is essen al to democracy, and sustaining independent, media like

Osun Defender is in the collec ve interest of all who seek a more just and accountable society.

“To further strengthen its impact, I encourage Osun Defender to: Expand Coverage by Broadening its repor ng to capture underrepresented communi es across Osun State, ensuring that voices from rural areas and marginalized groups are heard.

“Inves ga ve Reporting: Deepen inves ga ve journalism to uncover issues of corrup on, social injus ce, and governance gaps, fostering greater transparency and accountability.

“As Osun Defender moves into its next chapter, I express admira on for its resilience and contribu on to public discourse. Congratula ons once again to Osun Defender on this remarkable milestone.

“May the next 20 years bring even greater success and influence in the pursuit of truth and jus ce.”

Also, the chairman, Osun State Civil Sociees Coali on, Comrade Waheed Lawal highlighted the important roles played by the medium in strengthening democracy in the state.

Comrade Lawal pointed out that Osun Defender is more or else of the first local newspaper that liberates the people of Osun.

According to him, “Osun Defender is an informa ve newspaper. It plays a significant role in enlightening the people of the state especially those in the rural communi es. it is voice to the voiceless. Osun Defender is more or else of the first local newspaper that liberates the people of Osun. It also played a major role in giving Osun a real democra c se ng.

“To the workers of the company, I encourage them to thrive more and do more for the people of Osun because the state needs more informa on and exclusive news. Congratula ons, Osun Defender.”

OAU Don Seeks Law For National Land Use Planning To Protect Agricultural Soils

AProfessor of soil science at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Olufunmilayo Ande, has said that there is the need for the Federal Government to enact law that will see to na onal land use planning in order to protect soils for effec ve agricultural prac ces.

Professor Ande stated this during an inaugural lecture, noting that aside the law for na onal land use planning, government

must also invest in research to understand local soil types and provide accurate, updated soil informa on.

According to her research, over 60 per cent of the soils evaluated possess a combina on of sandy-tosandy loam top soils and illuvial B horizons. These soils exhibit characteris cs such as acidity, low fer lity, and insufficient organic carbon. Consequently, approximately 80 per cent of the studied soils are classified as having only moderate

to marginal suitability for major crops. She posited that achieving op mal yields and profitability will require addi onal inputs to enhance soil quality and produc on potenal.

The inaugural lecture, chaired by Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Professor Simeon Bamire, had in a endance notable figures from academia and the agricultural sector, including the Director of the Instute of Agricultural

Research and Training (IAR&T), Professor Veronica Obatolu, the President of the Soil Science Society of Nigeria, Deans of Facules, Professors across various disciplines, scien sts, students, farmers and community leaders.

Campus Review Campus Review

FG Approves Federal University In Osun

PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has assented to two separate bills establishing the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies, Iragbiji, Osun State and the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences, Iyin Eki , Eki State.

According to a statement issued by presiden al spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu said these specialised ins tu ons will address the educa onal needs of the populace while driving research and innovaon and contribu ng to the country’s overall economic growth

and development. He said the instu ons will serve as training grounds for developing agriculture, science and technology professionals and enhancing Nigeria’s compe veness in the global economy. According to the Na onal Universi es Commission (NUC), Nigeria currently has 63 approved federal universi es, 63 State universi es, and 149

private universi es. The President had earlier on February 3, 2025, approved establishing the Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET) in Ogoni town of Tai, Rivers State. He also consented to the Federal Government’s takeover of a forfeited private university in Southern Kaduna and its transforma on into a federal university.

Communal Clash: Osun Monarch Expresses Concern Over Adeleke’s Delay In Constituting Enquiry Panel

Kazeem Badmus

THE Owamiran of Esa Oke, Oba Adeyemi Akanbi, has urged Governor Ademola Adeleke to fulfill his promise of se ng up a panel of inquiry to inves gate the crisis that occurred in the town on February 3, 2025.

The monarch, while addressing journalists in Esa Oke on Tuesday, expressed concern over the delay in the panel’s cons tu on, sta ng that the community is eager to present its case and seek jus ce over the recent deadly clash between the town and Ido-Ajegunle community over land dispute. Oba Akanbi, who commended Governor Adeleke for his prompt interven on, par cularly his pledge to cover the medical expenses of those injured and to support those arrested, however, reiterated that

the community remains expectant of the promised panel of inquiry, medical expenses, and

among others. The tradi onal ruler said, “We have been wai ng for the panel of

inquiry to be set up so that we can present our grievances and explain what truly happened.

Why I Use Walking Stick - Adeleke

Yusuf Oketola

GOVERNOR Ademola Adeleke has clarified his usage of the walking s ck in recent ou ngs and official assignments, narra ng that as Asiwaju of Edeland, using the walking s ck is part of the paraphernalia of his office.

Responding to quesons in some quarters, the Governor, who said he is fit as fiddle, affirmed that aside from being part of his outings as a high chief of Edeland, walking s ck is a normal accessory in many parts of the country.

According to Governor Adeleke, a walking s ck is a signal of dignity associated with

highly placed people in the society, explaining “I am hale and hearty. I am not sick in whatever way.

He narrated that his first walking s ck was gi ed to him by the Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri during one of his state visits to Bayelsa, adding that “at

the recent Governors’ Forum mee ng in Asaba, our host again gave all Governors shining walking s ck and we all used it.

“In the South East and South South, walking s cks are part of daily wares and ou ngs. So there is nothing extraordinary in my usage of the same.

“My people should be rest assured that their Governor is well and has no health challenge”, the Governor explained in the statement.

“We are law-abiding ci zens, but Timileyin and his group have been troubling us in Ido Ajegunle. They have prevented our children from going to the farm, and we are suffering from hunger.”

The monarch also alleged that Ido-Ajegunle has been installing solar-powered surveillance systems and CCTV cameras around the villages to monitor ac vi es.

He said, “Our people have been physically chased away from their farms. Today, we held a mee ng in the palace and later visited the DPO along with our chiefs. We saw the CCTV installa ons, but those hiding in the bush were aware of our presence and evaded detec on.”

Also speaking, the Chairman of Esa-Oke Central Union, Bamigbeyi Aremu, raised concerns over the delay in

implemen ng the resolu ons made by Governor Adeleke following the crisis.

“Our people have remained calm because the governor assured us that a judicial panel of inquiry would be set up. However, the open abuse of this process by hoodlums has le us deeply frustrated. This a ernoon, under the direc ve of our monarch, Oba Akanni Adediran, the Owa Omiran of Esa-Oke, a community mee ng was held. We resolved to visit the disputed loca on alongside the Divisional Police Officer of Esa-Oke.

“We have been paent, but we will not sit back and allow this encroachment to connue. The governor must act now to prevent a crisis that could shake the founda on of peace in the state,” he said.

LG Election: Former Osun Speaker Associate Fingered In Killing Of Voter

THE Osun state chapter of the Peoples Democra c Party (PDP) has named one Ademoro Adeboye (aka Germani) as the killer of an innocent voter, Ajilore Ifeoluwa, a barber, during the last Saturday Local Government Elec on in Ilesa East Area of the state.

Yusuf Oketola obtained by OSUN DEFENDER reads partly: “We are greatly alarmed that the APC thugs wrought violence on innocent voters, leading to the death of a barber in Ilesa East, and injuries to many others across the state. What happened in Ilesa East LG is reprehensible and the assailants must not escape jus ce.

The PDP, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Hon. Sunday Bisi, condemned the resort to violence by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in an a empt to stop the elec on, calling on security agents to go a er Adeboye.

According to Bisi, the suspect is a known associate of former Osun State House of Assembly Speaker, Timothy Owoeye.

A copy of the statement

“Ajilore Ifeoluwa was just an innocent voter, yet, he was shot to death by Ademoro Adeboye (aka Germani), who is a known associate of former Osun State House of Assembly Speaker, Timothy Owoeye, just because he wanted to exercise his franchise. What is most alarming was that this incident happened right in the presence of Policemen, yet no effort was made to arrest the assailant

who walked away freely. “This is totally unacceptable and we are calling on the Police to redeem itself

by going a er the killer and bring him to jus ce. Anything outside this will mean that the Police is complicit

in the open murder of PDP members and innocent voters by APC thugs and we cannot imagine the nega-

ve impact or the impression such development will have on the interna onal community.”

Osun Govt Raises Alarm Over APC Chairmen’s Visit To Primary Healthcare Centers

TKazeem Badmus

HE Osun State Government has raised alarm over the visita ons of the purportedly reinstated Yes/No Local Government APC Chairmen to Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) across the state. The state government said the visits were unauthorised, unlawful, and designed to in midate healthcare workers and disrupt medical services.

A statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Healt, Dr Akindele Adekunle, condemn the acts and urge all healthcare staff to steer clear of the APC chairmen, describing them as im-

postors.

The statement further reads, “For the avoidance of doubt, no local government official has the authority to inspect or interfere with the opera ons of our PHCs without ex-

Adeleke Accused Of Changing LG Accounts Signatories

Yusuf Oketola

THE Osun State Government, on Wednesday, refuted claims that it was forcing career officers in local governments to change signatories to council accounts amid the ongoing tussle between the ruling Peoples Democra c Party and the opposi on All Progressives Congress over local government control.

The Chairman of the Allied Peoples Movement in Osun, Mr. Adewale Adebayo, had alleged that Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administra on was coercing Finance Directors and Heads of Local Administra on to alter council account signatories.

“We reliably gathered that Adeleke’s government has started taking 30 Local Government Area Finance Directors and Heads of Local Administra on to an undisclosed loca on forcefully. This is unconnected to the conten on over who controls the local government.

“The HLAs and the Directors of Finance were taken to these loca ons to be pressured into changing signatories of council accounts to the newly elected officials.

“These individuals have been reportedly held against their will, an act that undermines the

principles of democracy and the rule of law.

“Despite judicial pronouncements from the Court of Appeal upholding the October 15, 2022, council elec on, the state government connues to act in a manner that contradicts the spirit of the verdict,” Adebayo alleged.

But responding swily, Osun State Commissioner for Informa on and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, dismissed the allega ons as “mere specula on.”

“This is just an attempt to say something because the Commissioner for Local Government has confirmed that he never gave such a direc ve. They have made themselves look foolish in the eyes of the public, so they want to create a false narra ve.

“We have never changed any local government account signatories. They should remain troubled. APM is just crying more than the bereaved,” Alimi stated.

Meanwhile, the APC in Osun has urged local government workers to return to their duty posts, insis ng that they should remain neutral in the poli cal tussle over council control.

Jamiu Olawumi, a former Special Adviser on Educa on under exGovernor Adegboyega Oyetola, who has been

speaking for the party, emphasised that the reinstated local government chairmen had already given workers a 72-hour ul matum to resume work.

The Osun chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress, however, rejected the ul matum, with Chairman Christopher Arapasopo sta ng that workers would only return when their security was guaranteed.

Olawumi, however, insisted that workers were expected at their duty posts from Thursday, adding that chairmen and councillors were already running the councils without them.

“It is quite unfortunate that they (workers) are becoming par san. They need to understand that they are not employed by the state government but by individual local governments. That is why they have Heads of Local Government Administra on.

“We encourage them to eschew par sanship and focus on their work. The ul matum lapses today (Wednesday), and we expect them to resume tomorrow (Thursday). If they don’t, we will connue persuading them to see reasons why they must not be par san. We are running, and we are running,” Olawumi said.

Efforts to reach NLC Chairman, Arapasopo

for comment were unsuccessful, as calls to his phone did not go through, and he had yet to respond to text messages as of press me.

Amid the crisis, an Osun-based civil society group, “The Osun Masterminds,” has called on all par es to return to court to resolve the dispute.

Speaking in Osogbo, the Execu ve Director of the group, Prof. Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, urged an end to inflammatory remarks that could worsen tensions.

”All par es must immediately return to the relevant courts to clarify the subsis ng judgments so that the current issues can be amicably resolved.

“Once clarified, all par es must respect the decision of the courts and lay the ma er to rest once and for all.

“As we approach the 2026 Osun gubernatorial elec on, all par es must demonstrate their commitment to peace and security. If this crisis escalates into next year, it could destabilize our once peaceful Osun State.

“Local government staff must remain nonpar san and adhere to the rule of law to avoid becoming poli cal tools in the hands of any party,” Oyedokun-Alli stated.

press approval from the Primary Healthcare Board in Osogbo. Any genuine inquiry regarding healthcare administra on should be directed to the appropriate authori es and not through unlawful, poli cally mo vated intrusions.

“We have received credible reports that one of the illegal chairmen, Mr. Lanre Balogun from Ilesa East Local Government, on Wednesday, conducted an unauthorized socalled “working visit” to several Public Health Centres, including Okeoye PHC (Ward , Irojo PHC (Ward 9), Okesa PHC (Ward 7), Ilemo PHC (Ward 4), and Ijamo PHC (Ward 5). This illegal incursion is a blatant act of lawlessness, and we warn all PHC staff to distance themselves from these unauthorized visitors.

“Disturbingly, these illegal visitors are not coming in peace. Reports indicate that they are moving around with armed thugs and dangerous weapons, crea ng an atmosphere of fear and insecurity within our healthcare facili es. This reckless behaviour is not only a threat to our dedicated health workers but also endangers the lives of vulnerable pa ents who depend on these centres for cri cal care.

“We want to make it abundantly clear that Osun people must hold these APC opera ves accountable for any harm inflicted on our healthcare workers or disrup on of medical services. The state government will not fold its arms while poli cal

•Alleges Chairman Of Intimidating, Harassing PHC Staff

desperadoes put the lives of innocent cizens at risk.

“The health and safety of our medical personnel and pa ents remain our top priority. As such, we strongly advise all PHC workers to refuse engagement with these illegal visitors. Should they appear at any facility, staff must immediately refer them to the Primary Healthcare Board in Osogbo and con nue their work without interference.”

The statement urged security agencies to monitor the situa on and take decisive ac on against anyone found viola ng public order.

“We call on security agencies to closely monitor this situa on and take decisive acon against anyone found viola ng public order. The people of Osun must remain vigilant and report any suspicious ac vi es at healthcare facili es to the appropriate authori es.

“This government stands firmly with healthcare workers and the ci zens of Osun State. We will con nue to provide an enabling environment for quality healthcare delivery, free from in mida on, violence, or poli cal harassment. Let it be known: Osun State belongs to the people, not to poli cal thugs!”, the statement added.

OSUN Defender newspaper came into being at the me Osun state was under the firm grip of the People’s Democra c Party, PDP, under the governorship of Prince Olagunso Oyinola. Like in most states in Nigeria, the informa on dissemina on was in favor of the ruling party, and nobody dared express or respond with a divergent view.

While the government-owned media would naturally do the bidding of the government, whether it was right or not, the private media, in order to curry favor with the government, will also tend to favor the government in its news content and analysis.

In a democracy, different views are inevitable for a robust discussion, and this enables voters to make the right choice, thereby restraining government from being dictatorial. It was against this background that the promoters of Osun Defender newspaper, a weekly with the mo o “People First”, came on board.

The weekly tabloid hit the newsstand in 2005. The paper has been producing, since producing, then ll now, for the past twenty years, which is a no-mean achievement. However, this came at a great cost, in terms of finance, and attempts on the lives of the staff, especially the founda on members.

The paper was well received from incep on by some people, especially because it offered informa on from a different perspec ve. Residents were now exposed to a variety of news, informed opinions, and in-depth details. Inves gave journalism, news content, and analysis were a delight to read, and people were always expectant to have it on a weekly basis.

Some refer to the tabloid as provincial, others say it is local, while others s ll call it a “project paper”. Osun Defender, produced in Lagos, is fairer than to Gbemu Osogbo, the distribu on core of newspaper in the state. Before distribu ng to the major towns, government policies and ac ons were thoroughly scru nized and dissected by the paper, which made it a must-read for those outside the government.

The government found this unacceptable, hence devised means to stop the circula on of the paper. However, one vehicle was singled out because it shares sympathy with the promoters of the paper. He was warned to desist from carrying the paper. The driver of the vehicle decided to give it out to other vehicles, later providing a vehicle that is iden fiable to show what is carried and dropped it at the office.

Another strategy was deployed to arrest our circula on officials who use a motorcycle to carry out his du es. There was a par cular day when a government

“The

paper was well received from inception by some people, especially because it offered information from a different perspective. Residents were now exposed to a variety of news, informed opinions, and in-depth details”

Murtala Agboola PERSPECTIVE

By

Osun Defender @ 20: How The Newspaper Sailed Through The Turbulent Era

official was deployed to arrest anyone that came to purchase a newspaper that includes Osun Defender. The officials swooped on and warned one who turned out to be a civil servant. He was taken to a police sta on, but his iden ty and the fact that he was a serving civil servant was his saving grace.

Generally, beside the a empt to abort the circula on, there was an attempt to arrest the editorial staff who wrote the stories. At a point, before the April 2007 elec on, the office was moved from Ògo-Olúwa to Oramiya house. The lives of staff were in danger. The declara on of the then Governor Oyinola as

Ithe winner also came with another challenge, which further put the lives of staff in jeopardy.

The state was in turmoil, especially in Osogbo, Ilesha, and other parts of the state, while lives were lost in Ife and Iwo.

Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, the candidate of the Ac on Congress (AC), was seen as the interest being projected by the paper, hence it should be stopped. Aregbesola fought doggedly for his stolen mandate for forty-two months before reclaiming it.

Produc on has not ceased since the debut of the paper, which by every standard is a cheered achievement. A er Oyi-

nola was returned by the staff, the staff had to go underground, also known as “gorilla journalism”. Most assignments were done on phones. Staff could not converge as a team at a par cular place for fear of government officials.

Staff who were caught were arrested and their families were harassed. Security officials of the highest echelon of the government were always on the lookout for staff. A er some me, the staff decided to converge at a place near the railway guest house, now christened Nelson Mandela Freedom Park, Osogbo.

It wasn’t a good scenario. A Samaritan privy to the plot gave us a p, thereby aver ng our arrest. It was indeed trying and harrowing mes for all members of staff and their families. Residents appreciated our sacrifice and contribu ons, but feared for our lives.

The government was hell-bent on shu ng and stopping the publica on of the tabloid, but try as they did, they could not. All the staff deserve commenda on and a pat on the back for going through tough and hard mes.

That the paper has survived all these turbulent years to mature into decades of opera on is indeed commendable. The founda on staff went through a lot to ensure that the paper had a solid footing. The promoter of the paper, the staff, and all well-meaning people deserve praise.

Happy 20th anniversary.

Murtala Agboola, (Administra ve Manager, Osun Defender Newspaper, March 2007 to May 2019.)

Serving The People By Force

T is painfully amusing watching some agents of the so called “Interna onal Community” crying wolf about African countries electoral processes, the mis-governance outcome, and the occasioned regional insecurity challenges. Who are the architects and bankrollers of the insecurity? Have they ever meant well for us and sincerely wish it were different? From the days of the Osagyefo Kwame Nkrumah who they overthrew, to Patrice Lumumba, Amilcar Cabral, Thomas Sankara and Steve Biko, who they assassinated, they never ever wanted patriots ready to serve their African people to come to power or stay in power. Their stock in trade is manipula ng our economy through debt burden and import dependency, and manipula ng our poli cs such that persons of clear vision and egalitarian commitment like the Avatar, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, will never come to power.

However, are they to blame? In democracy, the bulk must clearly stop on the table of The People, every people inevitably get the kind of government they deserve. Though unfortunately held down in poverty, ignorance and primordial sen ments – cleaving to ethnic and religious affilia ons, which are manipulated to divide them – the people, as the Yoruba say, must s ll endeavour to see while shedding tears; “bi a ba n sukun, a ma riran.” Like Bob Marley said, “how long shall they kill our prophets while we stand aside and look?” A people willing to stand aloof while their best are wasted and their most selfish and vile are im-

posed as rulers over them are no longer vic ms but accomplishes in their own misfortune. As Bob Marley said, again, “none but ourselves can free our minds.”

One example suffices from the immediate past Federal Government: Buhari is a Northern Muslim and Emefiele is a Southern Chris an but they collaborated to occasion the disrup on of the en re Nigerian financial system through a policy that they claimed was well intended. Between “good” inten on and the harsh outcome, no one pointed out their tribe or religion; and the punishing impact spared no tribe or religion. However, because of cut throat compe on to grab power, we – the people – are always reminded of our tribe and religion at EVERY elec on me, and are stupidly manipulated and primed to wreck havoc.

Meanwhile, the issues of power supply, housing deficit, produc vity, currency rate, woeful infrastructure deficit, declined educa on quality, absent health care ins tu on, astounding and moun ng debt burden, endemic corrup on, insecurity, and a hundred other miseries are all le out of the discuss!

The simple reason why struggle for public offices (ideally for service to the people) have become do-or-die is that they are not going there to serve the people but themselves, their cliques and their foreign masters. Why? Because government in Nigeria has since become a grand conspiracy to be in control of oil money (Federa on Account Alloca ons) for sharing and stealing, and poli cs thereby the most lucra ve business that is unwi ngly

killing the growth of all other produc ve businesses. Why should anyone want to die and be ready to kill others simply because he or she wants to go and make life be er for the people? Is that logical? Is being in government the only way of rendering service to the people? No.

The answer to the ques on “Why should anyone construe or misconstrue any form of judgement whatsoever as a mandate to forcefully take over Local Government Councils?” should now be clear in the minds of the readers.

As things stand today, THE PEOPLE s ll remain their only true messiah. They should expect none other. They have to wake up; they have to think clearly devoid of ethnic and religious sen ments; they have to FIRST OF ALL DEMAND A CHANGE IN THE OPERATING SYSTEM – as to reflect genuine FEDERALISM; they have to then look over the en re social and poli cal landscape, analyse the character of all those claiming all kinds of poli cal claims; finally, they have to rally themselves into a movement of themselves, by themselves and for themselves as a powerful weapon for demanding the best from the best available poli cal pla orm.

Their tolerance of anything else but the best must end, peacefully, democracally. It begins from the individual through self-reorienta on; con nues through togetherness and consensus building within various associa ons and organisa ons; and concludes through UNITED VOICE demonstrated by the majority on all forthcoming electoral contests throughout the land.