••inaugurates members of the Ondo Judicial Service Commission

••Says Construction of New Ultra-Modern Court Complex to commence immediately

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON, has sworn-in Hon. Justice Ayedun Olusegun Odusola as the 12th Chief Judge of the State.

Hon. Justice Odusola had served as the Acting Chief Judge of the State until his recommendation by the National Judicial Council (NJC) and subsequent appointment by the Governor and approval by the State House of Assembly.

The Governor also swore-in Hon. Justice Bolatito Florence Ajibade; Hon. Justice Bankole Jacob Akinwunmi; Hon. Justice Leonard Boyede Ologun and Hon. Justice Femi Sylvester Akinbinnu as new High Court Judges in the State.

Governor Akeredolu equally inaugurated Pastor Omofunmile Adejombo; Mrs. Omolola Akinseloyin and Mr Stanley Adeniyan as members of the State Judicial Service Commission (JSC)

Their inauguration was performed at the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office, Alagbaka, Akure.

The Governor described the appointment of the Chief Judge and other Judges as the greatest honour a society can confer on any citizen.

He said their appointment was not only a mark of recognition with regard to competence in the administration and practice of law, but also confirmed their fitness in terms of character.

Arakunrin Akeredolu reiterated his Administration’s promise to support the judiciary.

“Amidst the challenges faced by us, especially after the outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 which impacted negatively on the finances of the State, we have continued to discharge our duties with utmost care and focus”, he said.

The Governor disclosed that he had just approved the immediate commencement of work on the construction of a new Ultra-Modern Court Complex.

According to the Governor, the proposed architectural masterpiece is designed to have all the facilities of a modern Court Complex which include 21 Court Halls, a modern Ceremonial Hall, Library, among others.

He said the Complex, when completed, will rank as one of the iconic court buildings in the country.

“With the support of the Almighty, we are determined to leave this building as an abiding legacy to the State”, he stressed.

Governor Akeredolu charged the Chief Judge and the four new Judges to be above board, stressing that anyone aspiring to the post of a judicial officer must be a fit and proper person.

His words:”Anyone aspiring to the post of a judicial officer must be a fit and proper person. He must be held to the highest standard of conduct, both professionally and in private life.

“Anyone who passes the screening at various stages successfully must be adjudged qualified. Consequently, the society expects the best of performance from such a person as he will be wielding immense power over them.

“In interpreting the law, he makes and unmakes. He possesses the power of life and death while applying the law. No serious country jokes with the welfare of the judiciary.

“I have had the rare privilege of swearing-in four Chief Judges and 10 judges since I mounted the saddle of leadership as the Governor of Ondo State. This is the 5th Oath taking ceremony undertaken by our Administration since inception.

“I have worked with some of these eminent personalities and have nothing other than high commendation for their exemplary dispositions. I, therefore, enjoin the new judicial officers to meet the expectations of quintessential service to the people.”

The Governor also warned friends and family members of the new judicial officers to desist from mounting pressures capable of distracting them.

Similarly, the Ondo State Governor congratulated the new members of the Judicial Service Commission.

“I must not fail to remind them of their special assignment to the people of the State. They scout for, screen and recommend suitable applicants who become judges.

“In addition, they attend to the welfare of judicial officers. Lucky indeed is a person who enjoys the trust of the people of the State to perform such important duties. The expectations of the people are very high. It is my hope that the new members will meet them”, he said.

The Governor called on lawyers, the Court Registry and the good people of Ondo State to co-operate with the new Chief Judge and his brother judges for optimum dispensation of justice.

In his acceptance speech, the new Chief Judge, thanked the Governor for accepting the recommendation of the NJC and appointing him as the Chief Judge and four others as Judges of the State High Court.

He vowed to sustain the existing relationship among the arms of Government and enhance the same during his tenure as the Chief Judge.

The event was attended by the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bamidele Oleyelogun; other members of the Assembly led by the majority Leader, Hon. Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi; Members of the State Executive Council, led by the Secretary to the State Government; Royal Fathers led by the Chairman of the Council of Obas and Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi; Judges from Osun, Oyo and Ekiti; Lawyers; among other dignitaries.

The Chief Judge and the four new judges were handed brand new vehicles as their official cars immediately after the event.

Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
February 3, 2023.

📸 Olawale Abolade

President Muhammadu Buhari has asked Nigerians to give him seven days to resolve the crisis caused by the scarcity of new naira notes.

The president said he has seen reports about cash shortages and the effect on local businesses and ordinary people.

He said the remaining seven days of the 10-day extension will be used to crack down on the encumbrances mitigating the successful implementation of the currency redesign policy.

“I will revert to the CBN and the Minting Company. There will be a decision one way or the other in the remaining seven days of the 10-day extension,” the president said on Friday.

His position was made known after meeting with governors of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The president said the currency redesign was aimed at giving a boost to the economy and providing long-term benefits.

He expressed doubts about the commitment of banks to the success of the policy, describing them as “inefficient”.

“Some banks are inefficient and only concerned about themselves, even if a year is added, problems associated with selfishness and greed won’t go away,” he said.

The president said the APC governors agreed that his decision on the redesign of the currency was good — but noted that its execution had been botched and their constituents were becoming increasingly upset.

Following their meeting with the president, the governors said they requested that the old and new notes should be allowed to co-exist.

thecable

Nnaemeka Ugboma, the chairman of Ejemekwuru Customary Court in the Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State was on Thursday, February 2, killed by gunmen. 

Ugboma was killed by gunmen who operated in motorcycles while presiding a court session. The incident brought the court sitting to an abrupt end as lawyers, court staff and litigants fled.

An eyewitness told Punch;

?The jurist was a law graduate of 1991 set. He was killed in his court while sitting. His killers came with motorcycles. They came into the court, dragged him out and shot him dead and drove off.

?His corpse was there as people in court fled. The whole thing is confusing because nobody knew any reason while they killed him. He was from the Nnebukwu community in Oguta LGA here.?

The chairman of the Owerri Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association, Ugochukwu Allinor, who also confirmed the killing said that the branch would communicate the public on its actions in regards to the incident.

..as BRECAN holds free screening, treatment of Breast, Cervical and Prostate cancer in Ifedore LGA

Wife of the Governor of Ondo State, Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has described a developed society as one with healthy population.

Mrs. Akeredolu who is the Founder of the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN), said this in Igbara-Oke community, the headquarters of Ifedore local government during a sensitisation and awareness programme on breast, cervical and prostate cancer to mark this year’s World Cancer Day in Ondo state.

According to her, BRECAN took it upon itself to mark the day with free screening for breast, cervical and prostate cancer, noting that, only healthy people could attend school, religious centres and, even office, hence, the need to preach early detection across the nooks and crannies of the State.


Her words: “It is important that the population is healthy, that is why we are going round to preach or wage war against all forms of cancer; because if the population is well, we can now talk about development, we want our population to be healthy and that’s why we are here”.

Justifying the essence of taking this year’s programme to Ifedore local government, the BRECAN Founder said; “Awareness of cancer is not just for city people, it’s for everyone regardless of where you may live. Everyone needs to be properly informed and properly empowered to recognise the signs of this dreaded disease, because like we always say, “early detection saves lives”.

The Ondo First Lady, hinted that BRECAN decided to include Prostate cancer awareness and screening to its programme following the increasing rate of men suffering from the disease, mostly presenting at the late stage.

“We are also educating men because we don’t even know what is going on now, people are coming down with one kind of cancer or another. Prostate cancer is troubling men; any man that cannot urinate now should go to hospital”.


She charged individuals to visit nearby health centres if there’s any unusual change in the body; affirming that it’s not a spiritual attack or death sentence. “if you detect cancer early, and get treated, you will definitely survive, because we have many people who did the right thing and they are alive today”.

She, therefore appreciated the cooperation and support accorded the programme by the Ifedore local government authority and the Olowa palace.

She, thereafter visited Basic Health Centre, Molete Igbara-Oke, where BRECAN teams were conducting screening for residents of the community, and expressed delight with the turnout, with the assurance that treatment and follow-up would be given to those who tested positive.

Earlier while welcoming Her Excellency to Igbara-Oke, the community’s Prime Minister who received her to the Olowa’s palace on behalf of Oba (Dr ) Francis Adefarakanmi Agbede, Senior High Chief Moses Akin Aluko, commended her for the lofty initiatives she birthed to support the administration of the Governor.

While commending Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, for peace and tranquility enjoyed in Ondo state under his leadership, the Igbara-Oke Senior Chief High appreciated BRECAN Founder for also showing concern for male health by including prostate cancer screening in this year’s awarenesses programme.

In her address at Anglican Community Grammar school Igbara-Oke, venue of the awareness talks, the Chairperson of BRECAN in Ondo state, Mrs. Chinyere Iyke-Nneke, hinted that the association kicked off activities for this year’s World Cancer day, yesterday, in Ilara-mokin community of the local government with free screening for the three types of Cancer.

She noted that, the exercise would be concluded in Ijare community of the local government on Saturday, and assured that there’s on-the-spot treatment for whoever tested positive.

The event featured lectures on the three types of cancer, and fundraising for patients support with the use of a Wall of Hope.

Dr. Ndidi Okunniga, an Oncologist with the State’s hospital addressed breast and cervical cancer, while Dr. Adebayo, a Specialist Urology from the Federal Medical Center, Owo, enlightened men on prostate cancer, risk factors, symptoms and treatments.

Participants, including selected students across the local government’s schools were taught how to conduct Breast Self Examination.

In attendance were the Commissioners for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Mrs. Bunmi Osadahun, and for Mines and Energy, Engr. Razak Obe; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Bar. Tobi Ogunleye, the Olori Olowa of Igbara-Oke, Tinuke Agbede, and all the Council Chiefs, the State Accountant-General, the Executive Secretary of Ondo State Primary Health care Board, Dr. Francis Akanbiemu, members of the Foundation for Wives of Ondo State Officials and female political appointees, FOWOSO, amongst others.

Mary Agidi,
Special Assistant to the Governor on Media(Office of the First Lady),
Feb., 2, 2023.

📸 Saidu Abdulrahman

The Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, Prof. Olugbenga Ige, has counselled the newly-admitted students to the Institution’s Institute of Part-Time Programmes (IPTP), to guard their admission jealously by focusing on their studies and eschewing all forms of vices.

Prof. Ige gave the advice while addressing the students at the Matriculation Ceremony for the 2021/22 and 2022/23 Academic Sessions held in the University Multipurpose Hall on Thursday, February 2, 2023.

The VC said, “Our newly-matriculated students, you should count yourselves providential to have been admitted to AAUA because out of the huge number of applicants that sought admission to our Institute of Part Time Programmes (IPTP), only 1,175 were admitted. Therefore, your admission is a no mean achievement, having scaled the rigorous but fair hurdles of the admission exercise.

“As a result, I congratulate you on being accepted into the prestigious class of university undergraduates. You must, however, guard this valuable attainment of yours jealously by focusing on your studies and eschewing all forms vices.”

He reiterated that the University has several times been rated the best among state varsities in the country and one of the most sought after nationally.

The VC, who noted that the University has produced several graduates who have become giants in all walks of life, and who, today, have become change agents in the society, said, “All eyes are on you to join this enviable rank of our distinguished, competent and confident graduates who have made us proud.”

He urged them to abide by the rules and regulations guiding their studentship.

“Our University is strictly governed by standard norms and values, and the university will not tolerate any antisocial behaviour and character that may contravene or contradict the laid down rules and regulations. Incidents of cultism, rape, examination misconduct, indecent dressing, sexual harassment and the likes will not be tolerated. Anyone caught in these misconducts stands the risk of losing his/her studentship”, the VC warned.

The Registrar of the University, Mr. Olugbenga Ararjulu, had earlier administered the Matriculation Oath on the students.

The Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) Ondo State chapter has appealed to the state government
to approve the use of hijab by muslim girls in the state public schools to avoid being harassed.

The association made the appeal during this year World Hijab Day celebration in Akure, the State capital.

Delivering a lecture to commemorate this year celebration, titled “Hijab My Progression Not Oppression” a Guest Lecturer and former Amirah of the association in the state, Alhaja ldayat Jimoh appealed to the state government to give approval to the wear of hijab in the state public schools to maintain their modesty.

According to her, the prevention of Muslim girls from using hijab in the state public schools was amount to the denial of their right to obey the injunction of Islam and the commandment of Allah on muslim women as obligatory to wear hijab.

The lecturer, who is also Assistant Zonal Co-ordinator Southwest ll for FOMWAN, said hijab is the identity and respect for muslim women and not oppression by its user against other faiths.

While advising muslim women and girls to always display good attitude with the use of the hijab, Jimoh condemned the users of hijab with trousers,mini skirt and other pornographic dresses.

“As ambassadors of Islam be conscious of your speech, behaviour whereevet you find yourselves with the use of hijab” she said.

She, therefore, noted that if the its use in the public schools is approved it will enhance progress in Islam and bring caution to muslim girls in the society.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Imam of Akure Kingdom, Alhaji AbdulHakeem Yayi-Akorede, said the use of hijab is not barbaric rather the establishment by Allah.

Yayi-Akorede,who also appealed to the state government to give approval to the use of hijab in public schools for muslim girls said government should also have a participatory support in commemoration of World Hijab Day on February 1 set aside for its celebration.

“Government should make its presence known at the yearly celebration of the hijab day as a muslim programme that should be given necessary support like new year crossover for Christians .

“Government should give muslim women and girls their due respect.

“Who puts on hijab, put on beauty, protection, respect, and benefit, ” the cleric stated

On her part, the state Ameerah of the association, explained that hijab is a divine garment prescribed for muslim women as a means of worship and identity.

She described as crass ignorance among people who convinced muslim women that hijab dress is an Arab culture.

Ameerah, who noted that this year celebration makes it 11 years since the start of the World Hijab Day to serve a means of advocacy of the rights of Muslim women to wear hijab said it is an international movement against the discrimination of Muslim women who have faced abuse because they dressed in according to their faith.

Also, the representative of National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations (NACOMYO), Mr. Abdulwaasii Yuusuf, said it is the due right of Muslim girls in public schools to wear hijab in fulfilment to Allah’s commandment for their protection.

Highlight of the event, which included the early walk by the participants from Central Mosque,Akure through Oba Adesida road to Adegbemile Cultural Centre ended at the Central Mosque.

Other highlight of the event was the recitations by pupils of Muslim schools on the use of hijab.

..canvasses for Power Devolution

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON has said devolution of power was the practicable ways to get out of the current doldrums.

The Governor made his position known at the opening of the One-day Zonal Public Hearing on the Review of the 2008 Remuneration Package for Political, Public and Judicial Office Holders in Nigeria organized by the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission ( RMAFC ), held at Adegbemile Hall, Akure on Wednesday.

The exercise took place simultaneously in all the Geo-political zones of the Country.

Akeredolu who was represented at the event by his Deputy, Hon Lucky Aiyedatiwa said, component units making up the Country has been passing through many challenges.

“The appropriation of the source of wealth of various States by agencies of the Federal Government is the fundamental reason for retardation”.

According to him, “the Country continue to pretend that all is well, when it is dithering on the brink of collapse” .

Continued, the Governor said, “the system which allows a very strong central government and weak dependencies is not capable of development” .

Canvassing for power devolution for competitive development, Governor Akeredolu declared that, “power must devolve to the federating units for the Country to lay claims to being a federal State” .

“Let every State determine the salaries and allowances of it’s officials, let the State control their resources and pay tax to the center” , he said.

In his welcome address at the event, the Chairman of RMAFC, Alhaji Muhammed Bello Shehu represented by Ondo State commissioner at RMAFC, Chief Tokunbo Ajasin, acknowledged the support of Ondo State Governor for hosting the event .

“The commission is indeed grateful for your kind gestures”, he said.

“The aim of the review exercise is to achieve an all-inclusive exercise that will capture all political, public and Judicial Office holders at all levels in the Country who were hitherto not captured” , he said.

Representatives of Ogun, Oyo, Ekiti, Osun, Lagos and Ondo State government were at the public hearing.

Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson,
Press Secretary to the Governor,
Office of the Deputy Governor.

Photo Credit : Abayomi Adefolalu.

February 1, 2023.

Surgeons at Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth, Texas, successfully performed the hospital’s first operation to separate conjoined twins who were joined from the lower part of the breastbone to the bellybutton and shared a liver. 

Giving Patients a Ray of Hope
In elementary school, Dr. Gbulie realized becoming a doctor was his calling. By the time Dr. Gbulie graduated from medical school, he knew surgery would be his path. He started out in General Surgery but during his second year of training discovered that he wanted to repair instead of remove.

“I have been privileged to train and become a board-certified General Surgeon, board-certified Plastic Surgeon as well as a Pediatric and Craniofacial Plastic Surgeon. Plastic surgery is very rewarding to me because it allows me to fix things and replace whatever was removed so it gives my patients a ray of hope. Filling that void in someone else’s life brings me great fulfillment.”

Background

Dr Ben Gbulie is an FGCE Alumni and hails from Nimo in Anambra state. Dr. Uzoma Ben Gbulie – A 2000-MBBS Alumnus of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos is a renowned plastic and reconstructive surgeon in the United States of America. Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (F.A.C.S.) Inducted – October 2009; Member of the – American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) and the American Medical Association.

Dr. Gbulie is a member of the Plastic Surgery Department at Cook Children’s Medical Center. Besides his elective practice, he also provides on-call coverage for facial and hand trauma and has handled many complicated cases including severe dog bite injuries to the face and scalp which require literally putting the child’s face back together.

Uzoma “Ben” Gbulie, M.D., FACS,  has been caring for AmieLynn Rose and JamieLynn Rae Finley before they were even born. He was one of the first doctors the twins’ parents consulted after finding out their girls were joined at the lower sternum and abdomen. 

“I’ve been looking out for these babies since they were in the womb. I spent a lot of time studying intrauterine ultrasounds and MRI images even before they were born. They’re basically like family to me,” Dr. Gbulie said.

This is Dr. Gbulie’s astonishing third time managing a set of conjoined twins. He had already been involved in two prior separation surgeries – one in 2011 where the male twins were joined at the sacrum, and the other in 2016, where the female twins were joined at the hips/pelvis.

“A separation surgery is as complex as it gets. It’s rare to do even one of these cases in one’s career, and a privilege to be invited to take care of a third set of conjoined twins.” Says Dr. Gbulie.

When the twins’ mom Amanda Arciniega was only three months pregnant, she reached out to Dr. Gbulie after her mother-in-law’s best friend mentioned she knew a surgeon who had experience with conjoined twins. Amanda and her husband, James Finley, met with him at his office. 

“We had a long talk about where and how it would be best to deliver the babies and eventually separate them. They wanted the assurance that if they stayed in the area, we had a facility where they could be separated. Being a member of the Surgery department at Cook Children’s Medical Center, I was very glad to assure them that Cook Children’s definitely has that capability.”

Expect the best and prepare for the worst 
Dr. Gbulie said it is humbling when you take care of small babies who can’t make decisions for themselves. In the world of pediatrics, it’s really a doctor, parent and patient relationship. 

“As the days became closer to the actual separation, the mother became more emotional. The family has trusted not only me, nor the entire team but also Cook Children’s Medical Center to take care of their precious babies.” 

By reviewing the surgical anatomy, imaging and operative plan enough times that it became second nature, Dr. Gbulie felt that they had reduced the chances of unanticipated surprises. He also planned the original incisions since the way they open affects the way they close. The main challenge for his part would be the complexity of the closure.

The closure could be a complex repair or possibly require a graft or tissue substitute.

“That portion would be a game time decision depending on what we find and how the babies are doing.”

Once the separation is done and closure completed, the twins will be handed over to the Neonatal ICU team. 

“Of everything I have learned from other separations, one of the most important lessons is the importance of the perioperative care. The preparation of the twins by the neonatal unit, making sure they were gaining weight, their electrolytes were normal, their respirations optimal and so forth – all of those allow them to tolerate a very long operation, followed by the hugely important post-operative care. It really does take a village.”

Dr. Gbulie’s motto for surgeries such as this one is to expect the best and plan for the worst. 

“And with God, it will go great.”

On January 23, the day of separation, Dr. Gbulie remained focused. “Knowing it is my responsibility to take care of another human being, especially when it is a child, is a huge motivator and keeps me focused no matter how long the surgery takes.”

He made the original incisions to be sure the skin flaps were protected for good closure. 

“Once we got into the nitty gritty parts of separating the liver and bowel, I took a step back.”

For the next 2.5 hours, Dr. Gbulie took on the role of assisting the pediatric surgeons as the separation of the organs proceeded. Time seemed to stand still as he watched all the hours of meticulous planning by the team fall into place.

Following separation, the pediatric surgery team worked on the diaphragmatic and abdominal fascial repair using mesh. Then it was time for Dr. Gbulie to close JamieLynn which he performed using skin advancement flaps. When it was all done, he stated: “To be able to do give this (gift of separation) to the family is an indescribable joy.”

Cautious optimism 
Dr. Gbulie said high fives won’t really come until weeks from now. The separation is a major step but is the first part before the recovery truly starts. He will breathe a sigh of relief when the twins go from surviving to thriving.

“The skin is the largest organ in the body and protects our interactions with the environment. It’s really important to get them well healed and a stable wound because without that, more problems could arise such as post-operative infections.”

He feels fortunate for not only the twins’ medical team but Cook Children’s as a whole. 

“There are not many medical centers in the world that have done this procedure. I think this proves that we have a hospital system that literally has every subspecialty and the technology required to pull off something this complex. That’s an amazing achievement and I’m very grateful for that.”

When asked about his work, he stated “I love every bit of what I do, and if given the choice I would always choose to be a plastic surgeon. My training and experience have given me the opportunity to help another set of conjoined twins and I consider that a blessing.”

“It’s amazing how fulfilling it is to make the child whole and see them smile again, especially when we’re able to achieve this with minimal scarring and deformity.”

Credit to :cookchildren’sconnect & Today.com

Reactions trail his achievements

Dear Great Idi-Arabites, thank you for keeping the UNILAG flag flying high, we are proud of your achievements and remarkable footprints in the medical field.

Here’s a thumbs-up from all of us across the world. Thanks for being a testament to the fact that ‘from East to West, Akokites are the BEST!!

Greatest Akokites!

Funmi Falobi

National Publicity Secretary

The Federal Polytechnic Nekede in Imo State has said that the student who credited her graduation to God and her “p***y” will be investigated.

Recall that a recent graduate released a video on TikTok after her project defence to celebrate her graduation.

“It can only be God and my p**sy ooo,” she said in the video which quickly went viral and sparked mixed reactions.

The Polytechnic’s management has now released a statement addressing the video.

The statement, signed by the Registrar Mrs. E. C. Anuna, is titled, “Management investigating student involved in a show of shame on social media.”

It reads: “This is to inform the general public that the Management of Federal Polytechnic Nekede has begun full investigations into the identity of the student who gloated on Tiktok about how she graduated with the help of God and her private organ. It is even most blasphemous and antithetical that the said student peddled the name of the Almighty in her deleterious act.

“Management considers the action of the student most unacceptable and preposterous. The Federal Polytechnic Nekede prides itself as an institution with high academic and moral standards. Both staff and students are quite aware of the consequences of any misconduct.

” In an unprecedented move, Management through the various disciplinary committees had released hot lines through which students can report any act of exploitation or corruption. These committees are diligent in ensuring that any staff or student found culpable is meted with appropriate punishment.

“The despicable post of this supposed student does not therefore represent the standard of our institution. The Rector of the institution, being a clergyman, has been very committed and consistent in instilling discipline in our students through seminars, Solemn Assemblies, sensitization outreaches and publications.

“When our investigations are over, we shall make our findings and pronouncements public. It is in our purview to ensure that only students found worthy in learning and character are certified. This is a commitment to which we shall remain consistently resolute.”

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has directed commercial banks to, henceforth, pay customers over-the-counter with the lower Naira denominations.

These include N100, N50, N20, N10 and N5 notes regardless of how much a customer is withdrawing.

This is contained in the Banker’s Committee directive to all commercial banks in the country while also announcing that payment of old N1,000, N500, and N200 notes across the counter should be stopped.

With this development, bank customers are encouraged to use their alternative channels for their transactions, while bank customers who insist on the new naira notes are to use Automated Teller Machines (ATMs).

The directive was issued on Monday, January 30, 2023 after the Bankers’ Committee meeting in Lagos.

Commercial banks will henceforth pay customers over-the-counter with N100, N50, N20, N10 and N5 notes regardless of how much a customer is withdrawing.

The Banker’s Committee gave the directive to all commercial banks in the country while also announcing that payment of old N1,000, N500, and N200 notes across the counter should be stopped.

With this development, bank customers are encouraged to use their alternative channels for their transactions, while bank customers who insist on the new naira notes are to use Automated Teller Machines (ATMs).

The directive was issued today, Monday after the bankers’ committee meeting in Lagos

Meanwhile, the CBN on Sunday announced in a press statement personally signed by its governor, Godwin Emefiele that the deadline for the exchange of old naira notes is now February 10.

The statement also revealed that there was still N900 billion outside banks and wanted it before the new deadline of February 10.

Emefiele noted that CBN staff currently on mass mobilization and monitoring together with officials of the EFCC and ICPC will work together to achieve the objectives of the naira redesign which include making Nigeria’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) decisions more effective and supporting the efforts of Nigeria’s security agencies in combating banditry and ransom taking.

To avoid regulatory hammers, many banks have directed their core and non-core operations staff to ensure they don’t have situations of cash shortages in their Automated Teller Machines only to be found that they have the new naira notes in their vaults.

“We deployed all our staff, particularly the Assistant Directors, Deputy Directors and Directors in Abuja to proceed to all CBN branches Nationwide to join the mass mobilization campaign and monitoring programs, working with the Deposit Money Banks, agents and our Branch controllers across the 36 states of the Federation.

“This is meant to ensure compliance with all our guidelines already issued for smooth implementation of the program. Although we have received some reports of breaches by some bank branches, we have agreed with Executive Chairmen of the EFCC and ICPC to assist us, by sending their staff to all CBN and DMB branches nationwide to join in monitoring the implementation of these guidelines. The aim is to ensure compliance with the laid down guidelines”, the CBN governor said in the statement.

Emefiele said, “We are happy that so far, the exercise has achieved a success rate of over 75 percent of the N2.7 trillion held outside the banking system. Nigerians in the rural areas, villages, the aged and vulnerable have had the opportunity to swap their old notes; leveraging the Agent Naira Swap initiative as well as the CBN Senior staff nationwide sensitization team exercise.”

••Says APC Lucky To Have Ex-Lagos Gov As Presidential Candidate

•••Campaigns For Adegbonmire, Reps Candidates, Others In Ondo Central

•••We’re Campaigning On Gov Akeredolu’s Achievements – Adetimehin

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, on Monday said Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential candidate will win the 2023 election.

Governor Akeredolu said the APC is lucky to have a personality like Tinubu as its Presidential candidate.

The Governor, who described Asiwaju Tinubu as reliable and competent, added that he is the only candidate that can engender desired change and development in the country.

Governor Akeredolu spoke in Ondo town at the Central Senatorial District campaign rally of the APC in the State.

The rally was in continuation of the Senatorial Rally of the party which was flagged-off last week Monday in Okitipupa, Ondo South Senatorial District.

Addressing a large crowd of party leaders, members and supporters at the rally held at Our Saviours Primary School, Esso Area, Ondo, Governor Akeredolu canvassed votes for all candidates of the party.

His words:”Tinubu will be elected as the President. Should we be looking for someone else in Sokoto or Adamawa when we have a reliable and competent person amongst us. We are lucky to have Asiwaju Tinubu in APC. He will win.”

The Governor also enjoined the people to vote for the Senatorial candidate of the party in Ondo Central, Mr Niyi Adegbonmire, SAN, popularly known as Omo-Ekun.

He said Adegbonmire has the capacity and competence to bring quality representation to the people of Ondo Central.

Arakunrin Akeredolu equally campaigned for the three House of Representatives candidates in the Senatorial district.

The candidates are: Prince Derin Adesida, Akure South/North Federal Constituency; Hon. Tajudeeen Adefisoye, Idanre/ Ifedore Federal Constituency; and Hon. Abiola Makinde, Ondo West/East Fedral Constituency.

He further urged the people to elect all
candidates of the party for the State’s House of Assembly in the Central Senatorial District.

They are: Hon. Simeon Toluwani Borokini, Akure South Constituency 1; Stephen Abitogun, Akure South Constituency 2; Komolafe Temitope,
Ifedore Constituency; Princess Tosin Ogunlowo
Idanre Constituency; Hon. Oladiji Olamide,Ondo East Constituency; Otunba Ogunwumiju Moyinolorun, Ondo West Constituency 1; Oladapo Biola, Ondo West Constituency 2; and Ologede Kolawole, Akure North Constituency.

The Governor later presented the party’s flag to all the candidates of the party in the district.

Earlier, Chairman of the party in the State, Engr. Ade Adetimehin expressed delight at the huge turn out of party faithful in the Senatorial district.

“Eight days ago, we were at the South to establish the fact that APC is the most popular in the south and we have confirmed it today that APC is the most popular in the Central. By the grace of God , next week Monday we will be at the North, because our leader is from the North. After that we will go from house to house to canvass votes.

“Keep your PVC, it is your weapon. From top to bottom, it must be APC. It is time for total loyalty. We have a Governor that we can be proud of.
He’s a committed leader. He’s loyal to his words.
If you look at his achievements, he’s a role model. On security in the Southwest, he stood his ground and today we can sleep with our two eyes closed.

“We are campagining on Governor Akeredolu’s achievement. In terms of performance, nobody has performed better than Akeredolu since the creation of this state in terms of road infrastructure, school, health and so on.” Adetimehin stressed.

The Chairman also received over 350 members of the People Democratic Party (PDP) into the APC. They were led by Adedayo Ayodele Sabali from Ijare ward.

Leaders who spoke at the rally include: Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; Chief Olusola Oke; Deaconess Lola Fagbemi; Mr Olabisi Johnson; Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye; among others.

Richard Olatunde ,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
January 30, 2023.

📸Olawale Abolade.

..as members receive Humanitarian Icon of Peace award

The 17 sustainable development goals are said to be the way forward for humanity but a critical analysis of all the goals revealed that SDG goal 16 is an enabler of all other goals as it is the only goal rooted in the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies.

This is why the need to gear all efforts towards achievement of SDG 16 is very important. BACSAAN affiliates therefore deserves to be honoured for being promoters of peace.

The Humanitarian ICON of Peace Award
organized by MOVIAN MEDIA in collaboration with the Chartered Institute of Leadership and Governance, New Mexico, USA whose activities includes recognition of philanthropists that promotes peace around the world have done a very good job of organizing awards for outstanding ambassadors of peace.

The awardees cut across both state and non state actors whose personalities or institutions have intellectually, technically and financially added value to humanity in the promotion of peace.

The illustrative gestures of the nominees for the peace award is worth the awards.Some BACSAAN affiliates were gracefully honoured as peace ambassadors during the award ceremony.

On top the list of nominees for the award is the BACSAAN National Patron, Barrister Sylvester Adu who also was the Chairman of the program.

In his motivational and transformational speech, the sincere heart pour of passion for a Nigeria that will be void of sectionalism brought the hall to a sudden silence and stand still because truly, we cannot achieve anything without peace.

This is a strong indication that all Nigerians yearn for peace. The retired Col. Adu is of the opinion that the gravity of campaign for peace must be intensified and appreciated.

According to Bar. Adu, Unity, competence and capability is better than where an individual comes from.

He added that the platform of war- like environment cannot be a basis to promote peace.

He hopes and beleives that Nigeria will be restored to her former state of peace and unity. Bar. Adu concluded by urging every Nigerian to be committed to building peace, stand by it and practice it. Bar. Sylvester Adu was awarded a classical award of Doctorate Degree in Peace Promotion and humanitarian ICON of Peace. He also received other awards.

Among other distinguished awardees is the BACSAAN National President, Alhaji Fasasi Muhammed Jamiu who was celebrated and honoured with the humanitarian ICON of Peace Award.

In response to the award, he promised to build on all the efforts he has put in place to enhance peace in every environment in Nigeria moreso that there is no environment where BACSAAN members don’t exist.

Other important dignitaries that were given awards were, His Excellency, the Governor of Niger state who was represented by Honourable Abram Umar, the Commissioner for mineral resources in Niger state.

In his speech, he said that the governor will continue to promote peace especially at the grassroots in Niger state. Next was CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, a Nigeria senior Police officer who is the first police PRO at the FCT.

He received a peace enforcer award through his representative at the event. The promise to continue to be fair and just in discharge of his duties was made by his colleague who represented him.

Important personalities honoured at the peace award ceremony were Hon. Dr. Joshua Yohanna Dangida, the President of JOJO Classic Foundation. The representative of Sanga of Karu, FCT received the peace ambassador award. The Olowa of Igbaraoke, Oba Francis Adefarakanmi Agbede received the peace award through his representative, Mrs Edith Anike Olowosile.

Important to mention that Alhaja Salaudeen Khadijat Okoro received the peace ambassador award on behalf of Princess Omowuni Olatunji – Ohwovoriole. There were other award recepients at the ceremony.

The award ceremony was co- chaired at the high table by Dr (Mrs) Eniola Adejumoke Aborode, the BACSAAN National Women Leader and “Mama Africa”.

Her performance in giving out the awards to some of the peace award nominees was fabulous.

The 11 women delegates who accompanied Mama Africa to Abuja for the award ceremony were BACSAAN executive members from Ondo state who made the award ceremony colourful and glamorous.

Report By:
Activist Temilola Odetola
BACSAAN National Publicity and Documentation Secretary

..says APC solidly alive in the zone

Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Engr. Adetimehin, has hailed leaders of the party in the South Senatorial zone, for organizing “a highly successful” campaign rally earlier this week.

The State chapter kick started senatorial rallies in the Sunshine State at Methodist Primary School play field in Okitipupa.

Mr. Governor, Arakunrin Akeredolu, SAN, CON, led other leaders from across the State to the rally.

The event was the first of its kind in 2023, heralding an aggressive but decent campaigns in the South Senatorial district of the State.

Engr. Adetimehin, who led a pack of leaders from the Central zone, described attendance at the rally as massive.

The APC chieftain said: “I was highly elated over the enthusiasm of the crowd, which was an indication that they were not rented, but genuine party members.

“To me, therefore, APC is solidly alive in that zone. I am not surprised though, because the political gladiators that made Peoples Democratic Party thick are now in the APC fold”.

He mentioned names like Hon. Isaacs Kekemeke, Chief Olusola Oke, SAN, Princess Oladunni Odu, Pastor Segun Ayerin, and others to buttress his position.

Adetimehin, however, assured that a more intimidating crowd would gather in Ondo for the Central Senatorial rally in Ondo on Monday.

His conviction was premised on the fact that “the central senatorial zone is the most populated in the State.”

He expressed confidence that APC would win in all the elections, judging from the current healthy state of the chapter. “The bulk of active politicians in the State are in APC, and that will surely reflect in votes come February,” he explained.

Alex Kalejaye,
Publicity Secretary,
Ondo APC

28th January, 2023

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Aketi,SAN, CON on Friday graced the Christian Wake Service for Late Mrs Caroline Jegede, mother of Eyitayo Jegede, SAN.

The Service was held at St. Thomas Church Events Centre, Akure, the State capital.

Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa also accompanied the Governor to the event.

Also in the Governor’s entourage was his younger brother, Prof. Wole Akeredolu.

Members of the State Executive Council led by the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu joined the Governor at the event.

Late Mrs Jegede died at the age of 96.

The Officiating Minister, Reverend Canon Stephen Ogunyemi reiterated that there is time and season for everything.

He urged the congregation to live a rightful and impactful life on earth.

Also present at the event were member of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Simeon Toluwani Borokini; Wife of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mrs Olu Mustapha, PDP National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN among others.

📸 Olawale Abolade.

PRESS STATEMENT

The Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON, has hailed the judgment of the Osun State Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Osogbo, which declared Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola as the winner of the July 16 Osun Guber poll.

Governor Akeredolu said the judgement reflects the will of the people of the state who voted massively for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Oyetola in the election.

According to the Governor, the Tribunal judgement has again restored the hope of a common man and reinforced confidence in the judiciary.

“We received with delight, the news of the Osun State Election Petition Tribunal which declared Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola as winner of the July 16 governorship election in the State.

“This is indeed a victory for democracy. No doubt, the judgment will further consolidate and deepen our country’s democratic values and Election Petitions jurisprudence. It will also sustain the faith of the people in our democratic process. The will of the people has prevailed.

“I congratulate my dearest brother, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola (Ileri-Oluwa). I also rejoice with the good people of Osun State and the entire APC family. This is a victory for all.

“While we relish the victory of the moment, I like to assure my dearest brother, Gboyega that we will be with him all the way to the Supreme Court. We shall hold hands together and march on this path of shared conviction. At the end, this victory shall be permanent.

“Evidently, this ruling has put paid to issues surrounding the election. We are confident that this mandate restored will provide a new lease of life for Osun State.

“We urge our party members to savour this victory with joy while also seeing it as a great booster ahead of the forthcoming elections.”

Signed:
Richard Olatunde ,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
January 27, 2023.

..orders immediate closure of beer parlours, night clubs around schools

Ondo State government on Wednesday charged residents of the State to be vigilant and guide against the increasing cases of the deadly Lassa Fever virus in the state.

Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, who briefed Journalists after the State Executive Council meeting said the Council observed that incident of Lassa Fever has increased in the state with Owo and Ose Local Government Areas as flashpoints.

She warned those processing Garri (cassava flour) or yam flour to do it with extra care in an hygienic environment.

The government also encouraged the people to be more circumspect in their handling of foodstuffs, especially dry foodstuffs.

The Exco meeting was presided over by the state Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN,CON.

The Council also warned against the new strain of deadly flu (Diphtheria) found in China which has put about seven Nigerians in critical condition in China.

“So, the Council decided that we should encourage our people to be more circumspect in their handling of foodstuffs, especially dry foodstuffs like Garri, yam flour, cassava flour that they process.

“Those processing Garri (cassava flour) or yam flour should do it with extra care in an hygienic environment, saying they should avoid spreading it where rats can defecate or urinate on the foodstuffs thereby spreading Lassa Fever.

“A new strain of flu has been found in China and it is very deadly. The Executive Council decided that our people should be reminded to practice personal hygiene by regularly washing their hands and keeping their environment clean

“About seven Nigerians are in critical condition in China as a result of the flu. So, our people should practice personal hygiene so the flu will not get here or if it gets here it goes away”, the Commissioner added.

On illegal shops and structures in front of some primary and secondary schools in the state, the state image maker observed that those shops apart from selling hard drinks, they are also operating night clubs which are not good for the development of the school children, hence the owners should immediately remove them.

It has been observed that certain primary and secondary schools have kiosks and illegal structures around their perimeters, sometimes even in the front of schools. And some schools have been fingered because they have beer parlour, night clubs around those schools. That is unacceptable to us.

“The Executive Council decided that in the next seven days owners of those structures should dismantle them, if they are not dismantled, government will come and dismantle them”, she said.

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate for the March 11 governorship election in Abia State, Prof. Uchenna Ikonne is dead.

DAILY POST learnt that he died on Wednesday at the National Hospital, Abuja.

He had earlier received treatment at a United Kingdom hospital.

Ikonne’s demise was confirmed by his son, Chikezie, in a statement he issued on behalf of the family.

The statement read, “I regret to announce the death of my dear father, Prof Eleazar Uchenna Ikonne, who died at the National Hospital Abuja today, 25th January 2023 by 4am after a brief illness.

“He was recovering after taking proper treatment in the United Kingdom but relapsed a few days ago leading to multiple cardiac arrests for which he didn’t recover from.

“Further details and arrangements would be made known to the public after deliberations and meetings are made within the family.”

Just last week, Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu confirmed that Ikonne was ill.

The Governor had, however, assured that Ikonne was “recovering gradually and progressively”.

“I want to report some progress and the progress is that Ikonne is recovering gradually.

“He will be strong enough in the future to join”, the Governor said then.

Ondo state Amotekun Corps Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye has warned members of the public to desist from boarding Okada without SITA registration number or riders with hooded faces to ascertain their safety.

The warning follows the alarming rate at which members of the public who board commercial motorcycles otherwise known as ‘okada’ as well as passengers boarding cabs,
got missing during the day.

According to Akogun Adeleye who is also the Special Adviser to the Ondo state Governor on Security Matters, he lamented unsuspected members of the public have fallen victims of the dastard acts and this is unacceptable to us.

“As a consequence, we are working on breaking this syndicate and we need the public to stop boarding any Okada that does not wear SITA registration and without commercial registration number plate.

“Taxies that are not painted and numbered in commercial number should not ply the road again .

“Any taxi without registration number is assumed to belong to that syndicate and we are tracking them down, but we want to warn members of the public not to board such Okada or taxi otherwise, they may end up being hypnotised and kidnapped.

“This ungodly act is more rampant during the day and this is more reason Amotekun Corps is warning members of the public to be careful about the kind of Okada they would ride on”, he stated.

Speaking further, Akogun Adeleye hinted, that once any Okada is not registered, members of the public should not board such.

“All those covering their faces with masks and ride Okada are all members of the sydicate.

“To further stem the tide of this latest tactics of kidnap, Okada riders with hooded faces, henceforth, are not allowed to operate in the state.

“No Okada rider should carry any passenger unless such person has been debriefed, satisfied and registered with SITA, otherwise they will be treated as members of the syndicate already arrested.

“This moment, it is not a case of seizing Okada , they will be arrested and prosecuted.

“Taxi drivers with unregistered number plate will face immediate prosecution and not their vehicles being impounded anymore”, he warned.

• 
  Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa, Nigeria has finally signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a leading Brazilian university, University of Campinas (UniCamp), Campinas, Sao Paulo, Brazil.

The announcement was made by the excited OAUSTECH Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Temi Emmanuel Ologunorisa yesterday in the institution’s Main Campus along Igbokoda/Okitipupa Road, Okitipupa, Ondo State.

UniCamp is one of the best three universities in Brazil and it is outstanding in areas of science and technology.

The partnership is expected to cover exchange of staff and students between the two institutions, sharing scientific information and collaborating in joint research.

The two institutions initiated talks on partnerships and collaborations mid-last year, which culminated in the signing of the MoU on Monday, 23 January, 2023.

Although one of Brazil’s younger institutions, UniCamp, established in 1964, has established itself as a primary medical and scientific research centre. It has also, as part of research and development, produce a high amount of patented material, outstripping other larger institutions and companies.

UniCamp achieved a major breakthrough in 2003 when scientists from the institution licensed a patent for genetic death detection, and in more recent years scientists at Unicamp have developed a test for detection of the Zika virus.

Prof Ologunorisa is excited with the development because of the profile of the Brazilian institution, as OAUSTECH established in 2008 has a lot to benefit from the relationship.

According to world ranking bodies (Times Higher Education – THE, QS World University Ranking 2021, CAPES – Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel), Unicamp is recognized as one of the three best universities in Latin America, one of the top 100 universities in emerging economies and top Brazilian university in number of patents.

It is also adjudged as the best in Brazil in the areas of Computer Science and Engineering and Technology for two consecutive years (2018-2019), second place in the ranking of the most entrepreneurial universities in Brazil according to Confederation of Junior Enterprises (Brazil).

Since assuming duty on 23 February, 2022, Prof. Ologunorisa has formed a number of partnerships with leading universities across the globe: University of Missouri at Kansas City (UMKC), Morgan State University, Maryland, Auburn University, Alabama all in the United States, as well as African Regional Institute for Geospatial Information Science and Technology (AFRIGIST), and The University of Gambia, Banjul, The Gambia.

OAUSTECH recently began the process of renewing its partnership with Carebbean Maritime University, Kingston, Jamaica in maritime studies and related programmes to develop the blue economy of the coastal region in which the institution is located.

It commenced BSc Accounting, BSc Business Management, BSc Entrepreneurship and BSc Project Management in 2022/2023 academic session, while putting touches towards commencement of BSc Applied Geology and BSc Nursing Science programmes.

Signed

Paul Adeagbo
Deputy Director, Information, Protocol and Public Relations,
Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH), Okitipupa Ondo State, Nigeria.

••Says APC Parades Best Candidates For The Elections

••No Place For Traitors In Our Senatorial District-Olusola Oke

••APC Govt Has Done Well In Ondo-D’Gov

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON on Monday urged the people of Southern Senatorial District of the State to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates in the forthcoming general elections.

Governor Akeredolu said the party parades the best candidates from the Presidential hopeful, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his running mate, Senator Kashim Shettima, the Senatorial candidate, Dr. Jimoh Ibrahim and the three House of Representatives candidates as well as the nine House of Assembly candidates in the Senatorial district.

The campaign rally held at Methodist Primary School, Okitipupa was attended by a huge crowd of party supporters and members.

The Governor was received into the venue by party members amidst pomp and pageantry.

Arakunrin Akeredolu said only candidates of the APC can deliver good governance to the people of the State and the Country at large.

He assured that Tinubu will fulfill his electoral promises, adding that he has track records and experience to lead the country.

The Governor also called on the people of Ondo South Senatorial District to elect Jimoh Ibrahim as the Senator representing the district.

According to him, the Senatorial candidate is well equipped and prepared to provide quality representation for the people of the district.

Governor Akeredolu equally canvassed votes for the House of Representatives candidates of the party in the three Federal Constituencies in the Senatorial District.

The three House of Representatives Candidates include: Prince Jimi Odimayo, Okitipupa/ Irele Federal Constituency; Donald Ojogo, Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency; and Hon. Festus Adefiranye, Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo/Odigbo Federal Constituency.

Equally, the House of Assembly Candidates are: Akinsuroju Nelson, Ile Oluji/Okeigbo Constituency; Ifabiyi Olatunji, Odigbo Constituency 1; Babatunde Fashonu Odigbo Constituency 2; Ogunlano Christopher , Irele Constituency; Ayebusiwa Chris
Okitipupa Constituency 1; Gbegudu Ololade
Okitipupa Constituency 2; Akinruntan Abayomi
Ilaje Constituency 1; Fayemi Olawumi
Ilaje Constituency 2 ; and Messiah Oluwatoyin Allen, Ese Odo Constituency.

Governor Akeredolu also presented the Flag of the party to all the Candidates at the rally.

The Deputy Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa said the administration of Governor Akeredolu has done well in the state, stressing that the people should vote enmass for APC in the forthcoming elections.

One of the leaders of the party in the South, Chief Olusola Oke vowed that the people will resist traitors and vote against them in the elections.

He assured Governor Akeredolu that the party in the Southern Senatorial district will return massive votes for the APC and its candidates.

Chairman of the party in the State, Engr. Ade Adetimehin said the people of the district has demonstrated love by coming out in their large number to attend the rally.

He called on them to translate the love into votes on Election Day, noting that all candidates of the party should be voted for across board.

Adetimehin also received over 2000 members of the People Democratic Party into the APC. They were led by Akinyomoro Aye and Eniyanwumi Sunday.

The decampees pledged to work for the victory of the APC in the coming elections.

The rally was also attended by the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Samuel Aderoboye; Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu; Members of the State executive council from the South; Local Government Chairmen from the South, Members of the Party’s State Working Committee; National Assembly members; and other stakeholders.

Richard Olatunde ,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
January 23, 2023.

📸 Olawale Abolade.

Pandemonium broke out at the late hours on Monday as a mentally ill man was allegedly killed by angry mob in Ore, the headquarters of Odigbo local government area of Ondo state.

It was gathered that he was killed for destroying all the Automated Teller Machines, ATMs in an old generational bank.

The incident according to an eyewitness happened around 7pm on Monday.

Our correspondent who visited the scene gathered that the lifeless mentally ill man was lying down on the floor as blood were gushing out of his head.

The scenario had caused panic in the area as residents gathered round the lifeless body of the mentally ill as at the time of filing this report.

The Hope

A 300 level student of the Federal University of Technology Akure, Olona Joseph Oluwapelumi has committed sucide in his off campus lodge in the Aule area of Ondo State capital.

The department of industrial design student was reported to have taken his own life by hanging for reasons suspected to be connected to depression and financial constraints.

OSRC’s findings revealed that his close friends in the early hours of Saturday went to his room and discovered it was locked, after several calls without response, the door was broken.

Upon gaining entry, his body was discovered hanging with the buckets with which he aided the act.


The department of industrial design student was reported to have taken his own life by hanging for reasons suspected to be connected to depression and financial constraints.




Popularly referred to as Black, some of his neighbours who did not want their names mentioned said Joseph was a playful and smiling being who never entered into arguments or fight with anyone.

OSRC’s however discovered that Facebook page of the deceased who is an entrepreneur that makes self initiated designer wears with the brand name “Tart Angle” contained post on sucidal thoughts.

Several of his posts also contained messages seeking financial help to enable him run his business.

On October the 8th his Facebook post reads

” Sucide kinda answers all. It’s the only thing that listens and trusts You when You left all to yourself
“Good night and Good bye”

Aside the statement from the student union body, the school authority is yet to make an official statement.

OSRC

PRESS RELEASE

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON has approved Tuesday, 24th January, 2023 a Work-Free Day.

This is to enable all eligible voters in the State collect their Permanent Voters Cards (PVCs) at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) designated centers in their respective Local Government Areas.

Governor Akeredolu urged Civil Servants, Private Workers, Artisans, and other well-meaning residents of the State who are eligible voters to seize the opportunity and collect their PVCs.

The Governor in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Richard Olatunde called on the people to place premium on the collection of PVCs to enable them exercise their franchise in the forthcoming elections.

“The importance of the forthcoming elections can not be overemphasised . There is an urgent need for us to address the low rate of PVCs collection in the Southwest. Beyond partisan lines, it is imperative that our people understand that the PVC is their license to enthrone desired political leadership.

“We are constrained to take this decision to enable our people take this advantage and collect their PVCs. It’s important that we all exercise our civic responsibilities.

“All political appointees and other government functionaries are also directed to return to their local governments and wards to encourage our people to collect their PVCs.” the statement added.

..says ‘Having Breast Cancer Brought Out the Best In Me’

The First Lady of Ondo State, Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has been honoured with a Distinguished Alumni and meritorious award, by the Health Promotion and Education Alumni Association,Ibadan College of Medicine, (HPEAAICM).

Presenting her the award during the association’s maiden Annual General Meeting, held at Alice Place, total Garden Ibadan, the President of Ibadan College of Medicine Alumni Association, Prof. ‘Dipo Otolorin, noted that it was in recognition of her numerous and outstanding contributions to humanity.

Responding to the honour, the Ondo First Lady and Founder of Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria, BRECAN, appreciated the leadership of the association for deeming it fit to recognise her ‘modest’, but impactful contributions in the society, affirming that the honour would spur her to do more.

As a holder of Master degree in Public health  from the University, Mrs Akeredolu who described Alumni relations as an important and integral part of an institution’s advancement strategies, urged lecturers to provide their students with adequate support while in school, such that they would be inspired to give back to their Alma-mater, later in life.

Her words: “I applaud very warmly, the efforts being made towards building a robust and formidable Alumni Association. This event is another brilliant effort capable of bonding and building a virile competitive and worthy Alumni Association. I commend this.”

Mrs. Akeredolu who had earlier shared her experience with breast cancer through a heading ‘Having breast cancer brought out the best in me’, asserted that her encounter with the disease which she survived with the help of UCH Doctors, motivated her to found BRECAN.

She re-emphasised early presentation by victims of cancer and provision of treatment facilities by government as a way to reduce the burden of cancer; while she expressed the need to also have supportive family members just as she got the total support from her husband during her encounter with breast cancer.

According to her, the public health department of the institution impacted so much in her and got her fully prepared as a First Lady to initiate some of her initiatives like BeMore Empowered Foundation, where girl-child is being nurtured to become a complete woman, and promotion of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene(WASH) among others.

In his opening remarks, the President of Ibadan College of Medicine Alumni Association, Prof. Emmanuel Otolorin emphasised the need for medical professionals to negotiate with the government on better welfare rather than engaging in immigration abroad.

In his welcome address, the HPEAAICM President, Dr. Bright Orji noted that the association was instituted with a mandate to reunite graduates, students, and the faculty.

He added that the association had identified the challenges facing public health professionals, especially the young ones, and ready to engage with them on how to be more relevant in the practice.

Also speaking, the Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Olabode Ladipo stressed the relevance of health promotion in the society, noting that the need for proper communication in healthcare delivery couldn’t be underestimated.

He lamented the dwindling number of medical professionals in hospitals, and pleaded for their cooperation with the government.

Speaking on health promotion, Prof. Joseph Okeibunor of World Health Organisation, Brazzaville, a guest presenter, advocated collective efforts to tackle health emergencies.

Mary Agidi
Special Assistant to the Governor on Media (Office of the First Lady)
Jan., 20, 2023.

..bags award of excellence in human capital development

The wife of the Governor of Ondo State, Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has appealed to Nigeria healthcare providers, especially doctors, to discontinue the JAPA syndrome to,z salvage the health sector from total collapse.

Appreciating their efforts so far in providing good services, the Ondo State First Lady lamented the rate at which Nigerian Doctors migrate abroad in search of better welfare package, which she affirmed would have grave effect on the healthcare delivery.

She spoke at the 54th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the Paediatric Association of Nigeria, PAN, held at the international culture and event centre, the Dome, Akure the state capital, on Wednesday.

Mrs Akeredolu, who was conferred with an award of Excellence in recognition of her numerous contributions to the welfare of children through initiatives like Solayo safe delivery kit, expressed her appreciation for the good healthcare services provided by Nigerian Medical professionals, which she benefitted  as a breast cancer Survivor treated at the University Teaching Hospital, Ibadan.

She said: “I do appreciate you all, not just because I’m also a public health professional but also a Nigerian that had benefitted from medical services you all provide. If you read my story which is in the public domain, I’m a breast cancer survivor of 25years and still counting and the Doctors at UCH made it happen;  that’s why I will remain grateful to all of you in this profession. At a time when people had expected me to go abroad and have my treatment, I believed in the doctors at UCH. So, I’m saddened by the Japa syndrome because apparently, the best amongst us are leaving in troops. But yet some of you have remained, and I’m pleading with you to stay to take care of us. “

Mrs. Akeredolu expressed optimism that  the PAN Conference would address the situation on how to change the narrative and figure out how to provide an enabling environment for Doctors to operate, thereby, drastically reduce the japa syndrome among them.

In his opening remarks, a former minister of state for education, Dr. Adewunmi Abitoye, who is the chairman of the occasion, congratulated the paediatric association and commended them for their works in hospitals, saying that the lives of children and mothers really depend on them

The President of PAN, Prof Olufemi Ogunrinde, noted that this was the first time Ondo hosted the programme, saying he wasn’t surprised considering the great strides taken by the state governor in health and education sectors.

The 54th PAN AGM and the scientific conference was themed: “Optimising child healthcare in Nigeria despite current socioeconomic challenges”.

Earlier, the Chairman of the conference’s organising committee, Dr. Olumuyiwa Alonge had explained that it was co-hosted by two sisters State, Ondo and Ekiti.  He hinted that the theme was aimed at addressing the  multiple challenges faced in Nigeria which affect the purchasing power of people, including health equipment.

He affirmed that exodus of health workers to foreign countries further compounded the problem and obstructed the proper functioning of hospitals, hence the reasons to brainstorm on how to mitigate these challenges.

Mary Agidi
Special Assistant to the Governor on Media (Office of the First Lady)
Jan., 18th, 2023

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON, on Tuesday met with Candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and other Stakeholders of the party ahead of the forthcoming general elections.

At the meeting held at Government House Ground, Alagbaka, Akure, Governor Akeredolu announced dates for the party’s senatorial campaign rallies in the state, while charging party leaders and members to work hard for the coming elections.

According to the Governor, Ondo South Senatorial Campaign rally will hold on January 23 in Okitipupa while the rally for Central Senatorial district will come up on January 30, 2023 in Ondo town.

The Governor, who is also the leader of the party in the state, informed that the North Senatorial Campaign rally will be held on February 6, 2023 in Owo, Owo Local Government Area of the State.

Governor Akeredolu, who expressed assurance that the party will emerge victorious, said the APC is the party to beat in the state.

Earlier, the State Chairman of the party, Engr. Ade Adetimehin thanked the Governor for the successful Presidential Campaign Rally held in the State.

“From reports, the rally is adjudged the best. We must keep the tempo going. We have laid our hands on the plough and there is no looking back.

“The Presidential election is going to be ours, the Senate and House of Representatives are also going to be ours. We will win all the House of Assembly seats.

“We must work hard for this election.
Across the organs of the party, people love us because our people love the government. We can’t be pushed aside. We have a dependable and formidable leader.

“Our candidates are the best. We are going to give the best in term of the result.
By the time the result is out, we will beat Lagos State. In beating Lagos State, we are talking about the percentage. We will count the total number of voters and the percentage won.

“During the last Presidential election, people thought we lost the election, we didn’t lose. Because this state is progressive. There was crisis then, but today the party is United under Governor Akeredolu.” Adetimehin said.

Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
January 17, 2023.

📸 Olawale Abolade

PRESS STATEMENT

We have observed the growing anxiety about the State of Health of the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON. The good people of the State and, by extension, other friends and well-wishers continued to express concern over the wellness of the Governor, especially since yesterday.

We are constrained to respond to these concerns and assure our people that by the grace of God, there is no cause for alarm on the Governor’s state of health.

Governor Akeredolu, just like every other mere mortals has had some health challenge for which he has since received treatment and recuperating speedily. Since the Governor is not a super human and the immunity his office enjoys does not extend to physical wellness or otherwise, the health issue is therefore not an unusual one.

However, contrary to speculations and insinuations making the round, the Governor though frail, is discharging his official functions.

Mr. Governor is not faced with any life-threatening illness that would have encouraged any alleged conspiracy in his administration. He, in fact, held Executive Council meeting with the Exco members till 4pm on Wednesday, 11th January, 2023 after the Security Council meeting where far reaching decisions were taken on the escalated clashes in Ikare-Akoko.

On January 7, 2023 Governor Akeredolu led his brother Governors in the Southwest and other party bigwigs to receive the Presidential Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akure for the State Presidential Campaign Rally. On January 8, 2023, he was at The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Jesus House Cathedral, Region 22 Headquarters, Oke-Ijebu, Akure for the Holy Service commemorating the 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration.

For emphasis, the Governor, who participated in rigorous campaign activities on the 7th of January, couldn’t have been bedridden as widely speculated. Moreso, last Friday, Governor Akeredolu still inaugurated a new Refrigerated Van for the use of Meat Dealers in the State. He also received the Melvin Jones Award of the Lions Club International same day.

While we appreciate the growing concerns about his wellbeing and indeed, appreciate the outpour of prayers even beyond partisan lines, we urge all persons of goodwill to ignore unfounded insinuations capable of creating any false sense of needless anxiety.

The Governor will continue to discharge his official duties to the good people of Ondo State in line with the REDEEMED Agenda of his administration while he finds quality time to rest for renewed vigour and strength just like any man in his situation.

Signed:
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
January 17, 2023.

Wife of the Governor of Ondo State, Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, was among the Creme de la creme in all spheres of life, who converged on Landmark convention centre Oniru Island Lagos State on Sunday evening, for the 70th birthday reception of Dr. (Mrs) Ajoritsedere Josephine Awosika, MFR, who is the Consul to Czech Republic and Board Chairman of Access bank plc.

Some prominent dignitaries at the event included the Fmr President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Governor of Edo state, Godwin Obaseki and his wife, Betsy; fmr. Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi the Ojaja 11, the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Dr. Victor Kiladejo, Senator Daisy Danjuma among others.

The event which was compered by the popular Nigerian Comedian, Bovi, featured the performances of the Juju legend, King Sunny Ade, Ondo cultural troop and other musical Artistes.

..Disburses N16 Million free Interest loans to Widows of Fallen Heroes

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, joined other State Governors in celebrating 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Parade/Wreath Laying to mark the end of 2023 Armed Forces Remembrance Day.

The parade and wreath laying ceremony was held at Government Cenotaph, Alagbaka Akure on Sunday .

The event marked nationally at various locations in each state of the Federation in remembrance of the sacrifices of officers and men of the Armed Forces to ensure the unity, peace and progress of the country.

The Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa at the event commiserated with families and loved ones of officers and men of the Armed Forces, the Police and other Paramilitary Agencies who had paid the supreme price in the course of their service to the nation.

After laying the wreath, the Governor said, ” laying of wreath and empowerment of widows of the departed heroes is always symbolic in the memory of the fallen heroes”.

“All over the World, every society has unique culture and ways through which they honour their heroes… the parade/laying of wreaths is therefore part of our own culture of honouring our heroes in Nigeria… this is therefore, our own sublime way of showing respect for them” , he said.

Aside the traditional parade and laying of wreaths, the State has gone a step further to add empowerment of widows of the fallen heroes to be part of the annual Celebrations.

According to Governor Akeredolu, “Ondo State Government has taken the bold step to put smiles on the faces of over 86 widows of the departed heroes and wives of legionnaires with the sun of N16 million (Sixteen million Naira) through the Micro Credit Revolving Interest Free Loans to assist in resuscitating their businesses which might have suffered setbacks over the years due to harrowing family commitments, which hitherto had been the primary responsibilities of their husbands” .

Equally too, Ondo State Government had made a donation of N2.5 million to the Nigerian Legion through the Emblem Appeal Fund, and in addition to this, the State cabinet members also donated N1 million to the same cause.

The Governor similarly urged every citizens to compliment government efforts in this regard.

Dignitaries at the event included, Speaker of Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. David Bamidele Oleyelogun, the Acting Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Olusegun Odusola, Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu, Chief of Staff to Governor, Chief Olugbenga Ale, Head of Service, Pastor Kayode Ogundele MNI and State Cabinet members.

Others are Commander, 32 Artillery Brigade, Brigadier General M. Adamu, Commanding officer, NN Forward Base, Igbokoda, Captain L.A Ajibade, Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Oyeyemi Oyediran, Executive Chairman, Akure South LG, Hon Gbenga Olaniyi , Ondo State Chairman, Nigerian Legion, Col Olu Apata rtd, Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III and others.

Kenneth Odusola-Stevenson,
Press Secretary to Governor, Office of Deputy Governor.

Photo Credit : Abayomi Adefolalu.

Femi Ogunrombi, the veteran actor who for a short time had played Papa Ajasco in the Wale Adenuga comedy series “Papa Ajasco and Company,” passed away on January 15, 2023, according to media expert Husseini Shaibu.

On Shaidu’s Twitter handle he said, “I have just been reliably informed that the ethnomusicologist, former Music Instructor with @NATIONALTROUPE and one time stand in for the ‘Papa Ajasco’ character on the popular @waleadenugaprod Comic Series ‘Papa Ajasco’ Mr. Femi Ogunrombi is dead! Journey well Sir,” alongside his picture.

Papa Ajasco , the fictional womanising bald-headed husband, who often slaps his head when astonished at events was one of the greatest comic characters in Nollywood history popularized by Richard Abiodun Ayoyinka the man whose pictures top media houses and social media handlers mistook for Ogunrombi.

In the mid 90s, Ayoyinka started playing the Papa Ajasco character under Wale Adenuga’s blessings but left the role to Ogunrombi who played the role for two years. Years later Ogunrombi in an interview said fans connected more with Ayoyinka and was asked by Wale Adenuga to forfeit the role to the original actor for commercial reasons.

“It was in the interest of Wale Adenuga Productions Company that I left. I don’t feel bad about leaving, but the thing is that quite a number of viewers tended to be with the other guy, and, like I said before, they see me as an elitist Papa Ajasco. Also, considering the market target of the sponsors, they felt they were losing viewers and money, I was nicely told and I reasoned with them and left,” Ogunrombi said in the interview.

He said he was happy to play the role during his time and was friends with Ayoyinka during and after his time as Papa Ajasco. He said the cast grew to become a real family and had the pleasure of reintroducing the cast to Ayoyinka when he returned to reprise the role.

Before playing the role of Papa Ajasco Ogunrombi was an entho-musicologist who made his mark in creative activities both in drama and musical scenes, spanning more than 25 years. He was a recipient of many local and international awards, most notably in 1995 when he was awarded a gold plaque and a Diploma Certificate in Creative Composition in North Korea for performing a song in that language.

During his active years in the industry, Ogunrombi was passionate about creative art education for children in schools. He once said “I feel that if creative arts can be encouraged in schools, particularly government schools, our kids would be able to build a solid entertainment sector. We want to discover them early so as to train and guide them.”

Businessdayng

Legendary comic actor, Femi Ogunrombi, who is popular for his role in Wale Adenuga’s comedy series, “Papa Ajasco” is dead.

This has been confirmed by a theatre practitioner, Shaibu Husseini.

Although the details given by Husseini are quite sketchy, he, however, confirmed that the seasoned thespian breathed his last on Saturday, January 14, 2023.

“I have just been reliably informed that the ethnomusicologist, former Music Instructor with the National Troupe of Nigeria and one-time stand in for the ‘Papa Ajasco’ character on the popular WAP Comic Series ‘Papa Ajasco’, Mr. Femi Ogunrombi is dead.

“I am told that the actor, singer and trained nurse whom we fondly called ‘Uncle Ogurombo’ (not to his hearing though) passed on this evening,” he wrote on his social media pages.

..distributes educational materials to pupils in Idogun town

..as Onidogun hails Akeredolu’s love for community, appointment of indigenes as Aides

The Chief Executive Officer of JATS Communications, and Publisher of JATS Online News, at the weekend distributed educational materials and food items to pupils of Primary Schools and some widows in Idogun town of Ose local government area of Ondo state.

This was just as the Onidogun of Idogun land, Oba Moses Ekundayo Bakare applauded the Ondo state Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, for his love towards the community.

Speaking during the distribution, the CEO of JATS, Mary Olumuyiwa Agidi said the gesture was to celebrate the fifth year of the communication’s outfit.

Agidi, who is the Special Assistant to Ondo State Governor on Media, seconded to the office of the First Lady, said it was also to appreciate God for the grace of another year and to impact lives of the people in her community and bring governance to their doorsteps.

The Governor’s Aide stated that she chose to celebrate the fifth year in her Idogun home town with a view to extending her contribution to the development of the town and add value to the lives of the vulnerable groups.

Four primary schools which benefitted from the programme within the neighbourhood of Idogun included: St. James Primary School, St Paul’s Primary School, Ansar-Ur-Deen Primary School and the Apostolic Primary School, her Alma-Mater.

Some widows within Idogun community also benefited from Agidi’s noble gesture.

Writing materials like exercise books, pencils and biros were given to the pupils while some packages of rice were given to the widows.

The Onidogun of Idogun land, Oba Moses Ekundayo Bakare, while receiving the Governor’s Aide and her entourage in his palace, appreciated the Online publisher for the gesture.

He appreciated the Governor for the appointment of Idogun indigenes which he described as commendable.

” I am very proud of Agidi because she has not disappointed the community and I thank Mr Governor and his wife for taking adequate care of our daughter”.

According to him , Akeredolu has been able to show his love for the community by giving them a local government Chairman for the first time and some political positions.

” Idogun is a peaceful community and we shall vote massively for the APC Presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu during the forthcoming February 25 polls”.

Oba Bakare however expressed his disappointment on some other political office holders within the local government which he observed that their attitude may have negative effects on their election.

Beneficiaries who spoke on separate interviews appreciated the governor’s aide and prayed for her good health , long life for the sustenance of the gesture.

The Head Mistress of St. Paul primary school , Idogun, Mrs Grace Olubunmi Odole described the presentation as a motivation for students to resume more earlier as stated by the school curriculum and pleaded that government help to renovate the buildings affected during the rainy season.

She also requested for deployment of more teachers, saying that they have only three permanent teachers in the school and that they had to employ teachers through the Parent Teachers Association to join them.

A class teacher at the Answer -ur- deen primary school , Idogun, Mrs Oluwatumininu Adeleye charged community parents to ensure that pupils resume earlier as expected and not waiting for weeks after resumption.

Two widows, Mrs Veronica Osho and Mrs Racheal Aroge pleaded for financial Empowerement for widows so that they can start a trade to be self sufficient.

•••Receives Committee’s Report

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, Thursday decried the poor management of the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital (UNIMEDTH), Ondo.

The Governor said the Teaching Hospital was not properly managed despite his administration’s huge investment on infrastructure at the facility.

Governor Akeredolu said lack of symbiotic relationship between the Teaching Hospital and the University of Medical Sciences was partly responsible for the poor management of the Hospital.

He assured that his administration will take proactive steps to rectify the situation.

The Governor spoke in his office while receiving the report of the committee set up to Reposition the Teaching Hospital.

The Governor, who also lamented the exodus of health workers in the country, said his administration is looking at sustainable steps to address the trend so as to close up the gap created by the shortage of personnel.

He stressed that his administration is currently building a 250-bed hospital in Ondo and another 250-bed in Akure.

“We have spent a lot of money. We brought equipment and put up new buildings. The management has been poor as you said. We can not run Teaching Hospital that way. I have been worried.” He added.

Governor Akeredolu said the next Chief Medical Director of the Teaching Hospital will be advised to create a unique selling point for the Hospital’s service delivery.

The Governor noted that the Hospital will not be allowed to be totally independent of the University, adding that there are qualified personnel in the University that can function effectively at the Teaching Hospital.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Dayo Adeyanju informed the Governor that the challenges in the Teaching Hospital was poor management.

He said the Akeredolu-led administration has made massive infrastructure investments at the facility.

“The government is currently erecting a massive structure each in Akure and medical Village Laje Road, Ondo. Their completion will help alleviate the current accommodation/ office infrastructure challenges of departments like ENT and Physiotherapy. It will also be able to accommodate other units.

“To improve revenue generation in the hospital. The facility can expand its services to cover oncology and radiotherapy as well as fertility clinics. The scope of the dental clinic can also be expanded to cover service that can also generate more revenue as attached in the report. The Public Private Partnership agreement should be in conformity with the extant regulations.

“The introduction of Patient Feedback System such as SERVICOM, will help in improving the quality of services in the hospital as patients, staff and the community at large can air complains that can be attended to by the supervising authority from time to time.

“There is an urgent need for the Government to put the Governing Council in place, to effectively moderate the activities of the Management of the young institution. It is obvious that UNIMEDTH has great potential from the initial exploits of the institution.”

Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
January 12, 2023.

📸Olawale Abolade

PRESS STATEMENT

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON has approved the redeployment of three commissioners to various ministries in a minor cabinet reshuffle.

Those affected are the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Akinwumi Sowore; Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives Services, Hon. Lola Fagbemi; and Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr. Amidu Takuro.

In the minor reshuffle, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Sowore moves to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives Services, while the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr. Takuro moves to the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.

Equally, the Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives Services, Hon. Fagbemi moves to the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.

The redeployment takes immediate effect.

Governor Akeredolu said the reshuffle was informed by the need to improve service delivery and strengthen collaboration among Ministries, Departments and Agencies in government.

The Governor charged the Commissioners to continue to work in line with the Redeemed Agenda and the “One Administration” mantra of his administration.

Signed:
Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
January 11, 2023.

..provides school fees and educational materials to indigent students

The Senior Special Assistant to Ondo State Governor on Women Affairs, Mrs. Kehinde Omolara Adeniran, on Wednesday offset school fees of 20 indigent students selected from the five public secondary schools in Irekari axis of Ose Local Government Area of the state.

In addition to the payment of school fees, she also presented educational materials like half a dozen notebooks, mathematical sets and pens to each of the beneficiaries.

While welcoming the Facilitator, the Principal of  Irekari Comprehensive College Idoani and host of the programme, Mr. Ayodele Omololu, appreciated her for the programme,  affirming that for his several years in the teaching profession, he’s witnessing such gesture for the first time.

He commended her philanthropic gesture and kind-heartedness, and also solicited continuity of the gesture for the benefit of other vulnerable children.

Principal Ayodele stressed the need for educational support for the downtrodden, noting that it is an investment and asset, which would yield greater results in the future.

He encouraged the students to utilize the opportunity, and be diligent in their studies to encourage the donor who deemed it fit to promote education in indigent students.

He pleaded with the parents to reciprocate the gesture by providing other needed educational materials for their children and wards and encourage them to study hard.

Addressing the students, Mrs Omolara Adeniran, popularly known as Madam KK, gave kudos to the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, CON and his wife, Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, for the opportunity to serve.

She noted that her decision to carry out the gesture was born out of her long-time passion to touch lives and leave a good legacy.

The SSA Women Affairs assured that this would not be the last, but would still organise for another set of students in the next session.

She charged the students to be serious with education and charged parents to monitor them against social vices and immorality. She adopted a girl to further her education in Akure, thereby increasing the number of girl children under her care to six.

A parent, Mr. Dennis Oluwadahunsi, while responding to the gesture expressed delight and happiness in the gesture and prayed for more strength to do more.

..INEC Leadership to serve as Special Guests

For Immediate Release: Wednesday, January 11, 2023

Ahead of the February 2023 general elections, a one-day skill-enhancing virtual workshop for 40 bloggers and online journalists in the southern part of the country on conflict-sensitive reporting is scheduled to be held tomorrow 12 January 2023.

 

40 bloggers from the Northern part will be trained next Tuesday making a total of 80 before the 2023 general elections.

 

The workshop is facilitated by the International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos-Nigeria implementing partner with the Institute for Media and Society (IMS) within component 4 (Support to media) of the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria-Phase II (EUSDGN II) project.

 

The EU funded virtual workshop aims to mitigate the spread of hate speech and the harmful effects of unethical and insensitive reportage of the 2023 Nigeria electoral processes, by supporting the media professionals in the acquisition of ethical and conflict-sensitive reporting skills.

 

In a statement, the Executive Director, IPC, Mr. Lanre Arogundade said: “In achieving credible elections in the face of several ongoing national economic, environmental, and security challenges, the major stakeholder, the media have the responsibility of integrating a conflict-sensitive approach in their electoral reports “.

 

The Executive Director added that “Moreover, the complex nature of the online journalism and its effects on the spread of electoral hate speech, misinformation and disinformation, further validates the necessity for the IPC initiative in building the capacity of the online journalists to acquire the necessary skills to accomplish fair and balanced election reports which also helps to mitigate violent conflict”.

 

The beneficiaries at the virtual event shall include online Journalists and bloggers some of whom are members of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers, (GOCOP) who will be involved in reporting the 2023 elections online.

 

The Thursday event shall be moderated by Ms. Maureen Chigbo, President of GOCOP while Dr Qasim Akinreti, Deputy Director, Digital Media, Voice of Nigeria, Abuja, and Prof. Muyiwa Popoola, Professor of Journalism, Communication and Media Studies, Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo shall serve as facilitators.

 

Special guests Mr. Ayo Aluko, Director of Voter Education, INEC and Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman of INEC are also expected to give goodwill messages during the engagement.

 

The specific objective of the EU funded programme is to ensure that, “The Media, including New and Social Media, provides fair, accurate, ethical and inclusive coverage of the Electoral Process”.

 

SGD:

Olutoyin Ayoade

Communications Officer

Component 4 (Support to Media)

EUSDGN II Project

The Ondo state Commissioner for Finance, Mr Wale Akinterinwa, has commended journalists and media organizations in the state for their unprecedented support for the administration of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN.

Akinterinwa, made the remark on Monday when the leadership of the Ondo NUJ council led by Prince Leke Adegbite paid him a coutesy visit in his office.

The Commissioner who is holding the position for third time under two different administrations, said “we want to thank the Ondo NUJ council for acknowledging the work of the present government led by Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu because is not easy for journalists to openly acknowledge good work of someone but seen is believing.”

According to him, no doubt about the fact that the government has done a lot in the areas of infrastructure and security across the state, saying Amotekun has become the major legacy of Governor Akeredolu.

Akinterinwa said the good things that hard happening at the ministry, were not just because of their ability or capability but because of the enabling environment given to them by the governor.

He said, “Governor Akeredolu has allowed us to display a little bit of our professional based on the assignment given to us. I will say that I’m glad and happy to be serving under him because he has allowed me to continue to express myself with his guidance and advise.

“He has appointed and allowed me to work and he has shared his visions with us all in such a manner that we have to key into the vision and that has helped some of us. So whatever contributions we have made in this ministry of finance, it is because we have a boss who has given us free hand to work.

“You must also find a balance in funding the needs of populace and the projects of the government which will impact on everyone across the state.

“I want to appreciate what you (the media) have done for this government, the peace and the positive media review we get, it is what you put out there.

Akinterinwa, however, promised to support whatever would enhance practice of journalism in Ondo state, especially as it concerns the need of the Ondo NUJ.

In his remark, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Jide Ekpobomini who described journalism as a noble profession, urged the media to sustain their unflinching support for the present administration in the state.

Earlier, the Ondo NUJ chairman, Prince Leke Adegbite, who led the executive members to the Finance Commissioner’s office, said the purpose of the visit was to let the ministry know that journalists in the state would continue fair to all stakeholders in the state in their various reports, applauding roles played by the Commissioner in the Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu led government’s timely payment of gratuities of Owena Press (The Hope newspaper) retired Staff.

Adegbite said “We are also here to acknowledge Mr. Governor for what he has been doing for media practitioners and houses in the state, and you can always count on our support.

“Ondo state government has been enjoying positive reportage since the beginning of this present administration. We should also commend the giant strides of Governor Akeredolu for providing adequate security for the lives and property through the state security network agency, ‘Amotekun’ alongside with others security agencies across the state and provision of infrastructure for the masses.

“We want to assure you that the support we have been giving this government will continue, because the Governor as our Grand Patron is also showing our colleagues love in some ways,” Adegbite said.

End.

Ondo State First Lady, Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu has bagged an award of excellence for her tremendous contributions to the development of sports in the state.

Chief Mrs Akeredolu who was full of excitement, appreciated the recognition, describing it as a motivation for her to pull more strings in engaging children, “boys and girls” in the area of sports, especially tennis.

The First Lady also noted that the famous Arabirin tennis clinic which started five years ago had graduated over one thousand five hundred (1,500) boys and girls accros the three senatorial districts of the state, while some selected tennis players are already representing Ondo state and southwest in national competitions.

Chief Mrs Akeredolu also emphasized that tennis, and sports generally has the ability to transform any child and push them to the limelight if given more attention.

She, hereby called on relevant stakeholders, affluence in the society and Sports Writers to team up with her vision to make Ondo State number one destination for tennis in Nigeria.

Earlier, the caretaker chairman of the SWAN in Ondo State chapter, Mr Wahab Bankole appreciated the gaint strides of the First Lady in rekindling hope of a better tomorrow among children in Ondo State, irrespective of their gender.

Mr Bankole said the association acknowledged her efforts and would do everything possible to further propagate her good works especially in the area of sports development.

Among those who graced the occasion at the Rotunda hall,office of the first lady Alagbaka Akure, included a former chairman of SWAN in Ondo State and national officer, Mr Akintunde Akinsemola.

Radio Nigeria, Positive FM

Press Release

Ondo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), under the leadership of Engr. Ade Adetimehin, applauds its members for the massive turnout, successful outing, organization, and the reception accorded the party’s Presidential Candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and other visiting leaders of our party during the rally at the Moshood Abiola Democracy Park, Akure, over the weekend.

We can not appreciate our members and enthusiastic party sympathisers enough for their proper and civilized behaviours.

The party notes that its members, and indeed the good people of Ondo State, exhibited enviable degree of maturity in dealing with the thousands of visitors, and displayed memorable hospitality during the event.

We were not surprised at the rousing reception accorded our presidential candidate, and his entourage because the party is solidly on ground, on account of good governance, spread, and structures.

PRESIDENTIAL RALLY: ONDO APC HAILS MEMBERS OVER MASSIVE TURNOUT, PROPER CONDUCT

Without doubts, the people of the Sunshine State acknowledge the capacity, competence, and political acumen of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to lead Nigeria. They are earnestly awaiting the D-Day, to vote en block for him and his running mate, Senator Kashim Shettima.

We need to emphasize that massive turnout of the people of Ondo state on Saturday was an absolute display of love for, and acceptability of the APC presidential candidate and his running mate.

We applaud our dear Governor, Arakunrin Oluwatotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, for providing enviable leadership and direction, in the State and the South West geopolitical zone. The success of Saturday event stemmed largely from his ingenuity.

We salute the tireless efforts and sacrifices of various leaders to ensure the level of success recorded. The Contact and Mobilization Committee, under the guidance of South West Chairman, Hon. Isaacs Kekemeke, performed wonders.

Having spoken in crystal clear language at the rally, the party appeals leaders at various levels to sustain campaigns in their units, wards, and local government areas, for resounding victory come February. We are expected to deliver highest number of votes in the South West for our candidate.

The victory would, however, be hollow without delivering other candidates; for National, and State Assemblies.

E-signed
Alex Kalejaye,
Publicity Secretary,
Ondo APC.
9th January, 2023.

..holds familiarisation meeting with selected LGAs’ project Coordinators

The Wife of the Governor of Ondo State, Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, has affirmed that the At-Risk-Children Project, ARC-P, would further reduce the poverty burden of the state.

She gave this affirmation earlier today during a familiarisation meeting with Local Government Coordinators of ARC-P, held at Rotunda Government house ground, Alagbaka Akure, the State capital.

She commended the doggedness of  the Special Adviser to the Governor on Gender and Secretary of the ARC-P Advisory Committee, Mrs. Olamide Falana in ensuring that the state benefitted from the programme.

Addressing the ARC-P Coordinators, the Ondo First Lady, who doubles as the Chairperson of the project Advisory Committee said: “Your position is very strategic and we really want to move fast, and I thought that when we have 50 facilitators from local government, we’ll need a Coordinator; we need somebody like a middle man between the local and the State governments and that was how this idea of having Coordinators came in.

According to her, the selection was premised on the expectation that they’re in the better position to know their localities in order to make the project implementation processes seamless and achieve its purpose.

She said:  “I don’t want anybody living in Akure working in Akoko, it will not work, if you’re representing Akoko you must come from Akoko and I hope you all live in your communities. You are in a better position to know your people, to know the needs and where the gaps are”.

Earlier in her address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Gender, and Secretary of the ARC-P Advisory Committee in Ondo State, Mrs. Olamide Falana, congratulated the beneficiaries and applauded the effort of the First Lady in ensuring that unemployed graduates were injected into the programme as Coordinators in a bid to empower them.

She intimated them with the task ahead, explaining that ARC-P intended to reach vulnerable and out-of-school children in various communities across the state.

She emphasised that they were all expected to be residents in the LGA they represented, noting that vulnerable children were from a local community, and households.

“ARC-P is not for children alone but young people who are under the age of 24 who we believe by the time we impact positive skills in them, they will go ahead to become empowered to support themselves with livelihood, support their families and become responsible adults who can give back to the society”. Says Falana.

She informed that they would work closely with 50 facilitators from the local government level who would soon be shortlisted from the ARC-P Portal, adding that they must ensure all nooks and crannies of each community is covered.

Falana highlighted the key pillars of the project to include, basic literacy and numeracy skills, health and nutrition, entrepreneurial and financial literacy skills, creativity and digital skills, cultural environment and climate change, security sports and incentivisation intervention package.

She further informed that the Project implementation would take the form of  need assessment data of every local area, before choosing any skill acquisition for beneficiaries in a given community.

The Ondo First Lady, thereafter, met with members of the ARC-P Advisory Committee to chart way forward on the successful implementation of the project .

Mary Agidi
Special Assistant to the Governor on Media (Office of the First Lady)
Jan. 9, 2022

The Nigeria Railway Corporation on Sunday announced the closure of Ekehen Station in Edo State till further notice.

The organisation said the decision became necessary following rising security challenges.

The incident came barely one year after the March 28, 2022 attack by bandits on the Abuja-Kaduna train, resulting in the death of about 14 passengers and while 65 others were abducted.

One of the victims and 21-year-old student of Kaduna State University, Lois Azurfa John, told our correspondent why she declined marriage proposals by the Boko Haram commander while in the custody of the insurgents.

A public announcement by the NRC posted on the passengers’ WhatsApp Group obtained by our correspondent said the closure was “till further notice.”

The statement reads, “Public Announcement: This is to inform our general public and most especially our esteemed passengers, that Ekehen Station has been temporarily closed due to security issues, till further notice.”

Another notice reads, “Due to the incident at Ekehen station on Saturday, WITS 01/ 02 will no longer stop at Ekehen Station. Please advise our customers.”

The PUNCH reported that gunmen suspected to be herdsmen on Saturday evening abducted many passengers waiting to board a train from the Igueben station in Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State to Warri in Delta State, while many others sustained injuries.

The Spokesperson for Edo State Police Command, Chidi Nwabuzor, confirmed the incident in a statement.

According to him, the abductors, armed with AK 47, invaded the train station and shot sporadically into the air before abducting scores of intending travellers into the bush.

Nwabuzor said that many of the passengers sustained bullet wounds, assuring that operatives were on the trail of the abductors with an aim to rescue those the kidnap victims herded into the bush.

He said, “This is to inform the gentlemen of the press that on January 7, 2023, at about 1600hrs, an unspecified number of herdsmen armed with AK 47 riffles attacked the train station at Igueben, Edo State and kidnapped an unspecified number of passengers who were waiting to board the train to Warri.

“The kidnappers who shot sporadically into the air before kidnapping some passengers left some persons with bullet wounds. The Area Commander Irrua, DPO Igueben Division, and men have visited the scene of the crime with members of the Edo State Security Network, local vigilantes, and hunters with a view to protecting the lives and property of the remaining passengers.

“Bush combing operations have commenced in order to rescue the victims and arrest the fleeing kidnappers. Further developments will be communicated.”

There are indications that the prime suspect in the gruesome murder of a couple, Kehinde and Bukola Fatinoye, in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, has escaped from police custody.

The police in the state have yet to confirm this development as an effort to get a reaction from the Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Oyeyemi proved abortive.

The prime suspect simply identified as Lekan, it was gathered, escaped from police custody at Ibara Police Divisional Headquarters, after his arrest on Tuesday.

It was alleged that the identity of Lekan, who was the driver to the late Mrs Fatinoye, until Friday, remained a top secret within the police hierarchy.

The suspect was said to have been driving Mrs Fatinoye for almost two years and was well known within the community of the Federal University of Agriculture (FUNAAB), where Fatinloye worked.

Lekan was said to have been arrested following an earlier arrest of another suspect who was a house help to the Fatinoyes.

According to a family source, Lekan was taken into custody at Ibara Police Station after the house help, who also escaped assassination by the assailants, identified him as one of the killers at the scene.

It was further revealed that at the point of taking a statement from Lekan, he slumped and was almost lifeless, not known to the police that it was only an act and a ploy to escape lawful custody.

Lekan was said to have been rushed to a police clinic at Zone II not far from the Secretariat of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Iwe-Iroyin, in order to ‘rescue’ him so as to help the police in its investigation.

While trying to ‘rescue’ him, the source further revealed, Lekan suddenly woke up, caught the health workers unaware, took to his heels and escaped from the clinic.

The source further said that efforts by the police to re-arrest the suspect proved abortive, adding that there were indiscriminate gunshots while the police chased the suspect.

The police have however launched a manhunt for the escaped suspect by declaring him wanted.

A ‘wanted’ message carrying Lekan’s picture has been in circulation since Thursday, but curiously not with any police insignia.

The message read, “Wanted! Wanted!! Wanted!!! This is the guy suspected to have been part of the culprits that murdered a couple in Abeokuta on New Year’s Eve. His name is Lekan. He is currently at large and has been declared wanted by the Police. Anyone who knows or sees him should contact the nearest police station. Kindly share.”

Source: Channels TV

Gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen have abducted an unspecified number of passengers from a train station in Igueben Local Government Area of Edo State.

The State’s Police Public Relations Officer, Chidi Nwabuzor who confirmed the incident in a statement, said several persons were injured during the unfortunate attack.

DAILY POST gathered that the victims were waiting to board a train to Warri in Delta State when the assailants invaded the station shooting sporadically.

As of the time of filing this report, it was still unclear if anyone was killed in the incident.

This is coming barely a year after terrorists suspected to be Boko Haram insurgents attacked an Abuja-Kaduna-bound train, abducting several passengers.

The Nigerian Army (NA) has announced a major shake up of senior officers for administrative and operational efficiency.

Brigadier General Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, issued a statement on Saturday.

Nwachukwu said the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya approved the redeployment of Major Generals and Brigadier Generals.

It affects Principal Staff Officers of the Army Headquarters, Corps Commanders, Commandants of NA Training Institutions, Brigade Commanders and Commanding Officers.

The new General Officers’ Commanding (GOC) are Major General IS Ali from Headquarters 3 Division to Theatre Command as the new Theatre Commander Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI.

Major General AB Ibrahim from Army Headquarters Department of Training heads to Headquarters 3 Division as the new GOC and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN.

Major General AS Chinade from Headquarters 2 Division to Headquarters 82 Division as GOC, Major General GM Mutkut will now head the GOC 8 Division and Commander Operation HADARIN DAJI.

The new Corps Commanders are Major General CG Musa from Theatre Command to Headquarters Infantry Corps Centre as new Commander; Major General MS Ahmed from Headquarters Theatre Command (NE) to Headquarters Nigerian Army Armoured Corps as Commander.

Major General BR Sinjen from Nigerian Army School of Artillery to Headquarters Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery as new Commander; Major General PE Eromosele from National Defence College to Headquarters Nigerian Army Engineers;

Major General AA Ayannuga from Army Headquarters Department of Army Transformation to Nigerian Army Cyber Warfare Command; Major General GS Abdullahi from Defence Space Administration to Headquarters Nigerian Army Signals.

The new Defence and Army Headquarters Principal Staff Officers are Major General SE Udounwa from Army Headquarters Department of Special Services and Programmes to Defence Headquarters as Chief of Defence Training and Operations;

Major General SG Mohammed redeployed from Army Headquarters Department of Policy and Plans to the Department of Army Training as Chief of Training; Major General UT Musa from Headquarters 82 Division to the Department of Army Administration as Director Personnel Management.

Major General Y Yahaya from Headquarters 31 Artillery Brigade to the Department of Army Administration as the Director Manpower (Army).

Brigadier General TI Gusau redeployed from Army Headquarters Department of Special Services to the Directorate of Defence Information as the new Director.

The newly redeployed Brigade Commanders are Brigadier General AM Umar from the Office of the Chief of Army Staff to Headquarters Guards Brigade, Brigadier General S Aliyu from Headquarters 6 Division to Headquarters 63 Brigade.

Brigadier General HD Bobbo from National Defence College to Headquarters 31 Brigade; Brigadier General MT Aminu from Army War College Nigeria to Headquarters 35 Brigade.

The statement noted that redeployment of the Generals takes effect from January 11, 2022.
Source – Daily Post

•••Says Ondo Coastal Area “ll Be Made Tourist Centre

•••Ondo Is A Progressive State- Gov Akeredolu

•••Mammoth Crowd ‘Shut Down’ Rally In Akure

Akure, the capital of Ondo State stood-still on Saturday as mammoth crowd thronged major streets in the town to catch a glimpse of the Presidential candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Tinubu was in Akure in continuation of the Presidential campaign rally of the APC.

Massive crowd stormed the Akure Airport to received the APC candidate. The huge crowd followed the long motorcade conveying the Presidential candidate to the venue of the rally.

The massive crowd filled the expansive M.K.O Abiola Democracy Park, venue of the event, to the brim.

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, CON received Asiwaju Tinubu and his entourage at the Airport.

Governor Akeredolu was joined by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and his Ogun State counterpart, Prince Dapo Abiodun. Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his Ekiti State counterpart, Mrs Christiana Afuye also joined the Governors to receive the APC Presidential candidate.

Minister of State for Transportation, Prince Ademola Adegoroye; former Governor of Osun State, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola; National Secretary of the APC, Senator Iyiola Omisore; other members of the National Working Committee, members of the Ondo State Executive council, leaders and members of the party, were also on ground to receive the APC Presidential candidate.

The jet conveying Asiwaju Tinubu and his entourage touched down at exactly 12:50pm at the Akure Airport.

At the rally, the former Lagos State Governor promised to make the coastal area of the state a tourist centre.

According to him, if elected, his government will develop Ondo Deep Sea Port and develop hydroelectricity.

He said he will give the people uninterrupted energy and not estimated billings, adding that the people will enjoy good governance.

His words:”We will tame the surge of Atlantic like we tamed the surge in Lagos. For good and proper things to happen in this country, we will definitely look at all the abandoned projects and failed promises of the past and rehabilitate them, give you the opportunity to become a manufacturing centre and economic centre in Ondo state.

“We will definitely develop Ondo Deep Sea Port. We will develop hydroelectricity and give you uninterrupted energy and not estimated billings, stealing your money. We will do more . Don’t create conflict, don’t create enmity, we are a people of peace, progress and prosperity.

“The message we bring here today is that of a renewed hope, a renewed assurance that education will receive priority in our government. No children of the poor will be left behind.

“If you don’t have the money we will establish student credit loan so that you can go to school. You will be educated, you will be experts to be what you dream and desire to be. Your future will not be bleak. You are given this assurance by me, you trust me, you trust what I did in Lagos.”

Tinubu assured Nigerians of renewed hope, promising to change the narratives of the people of the country for good.

The Presidential campaign rally was attended by Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and his Ogun State counterpart, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Wife of the Ondo State Governor, Chief Betty Anywanwu-Akeredolu; Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his Ekiti State counterpart, Mrs Christiana Afuye.

Others were Minister of State for Transportation, Prince Ademola Adegoroye; former Governor of Osun State, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola; National Secretary of the APC, Senator Iyiola Omisore; other members of the National Working Committee, members of the Ondo State Executive council, leaders and members of the party and thousands of APC supporters and loyalists.

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was full of gratitude to people of the state for the rousing welcome and warm reception given him, described the people of the state as dependable and sincere.

He appreciated Governor Akeredolu for always standing up for justice and fairness, stressing that Ondo State is the home of the progressives.

Asiwaju Tinubu informed the mammoth crowd that the coming election is for the betterment of the people and the country in general.

The former Lagos State Governor pleaded with the people not to lose their PVCs, saying the rally signaled a renewed hope for the country.

Tinubu, who expressed confidence that he will win the election, also urged the people not vote for those who will sell their future or make their children go to bed hungry.

He said he was determined to create safer, more prosperous and dynamic society.

According to him, the progressive governance can only be brought to the people by someone who had once governed in a progressive manner.

He noted that the PDP Presidential candidate is not ready to do the courageous and hardwork required to build a better nation.

“He cares little that his policies and actions will impoverish you and you will be left with nothing.” He added.

Tinubu also took a swipe on Labour Party Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, describing him as a wicked parent who held money in his hand while the children go to bed hungry.

The APC Presidential candidate explained that when Obi served as Governor of Anambra State, no farmer or city dweller prospered, urging Nigerians to reject the LP Presidential candidate at the polls.

He noted that Nigerians cannot entrust their future or that of the nation to “Mr Sell Everything” like Atiku and “Mr Stingy like Obi” .

The APC presidential candidate said himself and his running mate, Shettima have brought a message to renew hope through empowerment to all Nigerians.

“I love what Akeredolu has done. I respect Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, he has improved infrastructure status of Ondo State. He has restored Ondo State glory in the plantation. Cocoa plantation will fetch fortunes, he has put Bitumen on front burner. He is chatting the path of industrialization of Ondo State. He is making Ondo State a definite tourist destination.” He said.

The host and Ondo State Governor,Arakunrin Akeredolu, who assured Tinubu that Ondo State is a progressive state, said the APC will emerge victorious in the coming elections.

He appreciated all the party leaders and governors, especially Ganduje for gracing the rally.

Also, the National Secretary of the party and former deputy Governor of Osun State, Senator Iyiola Omisore, said Nigerians will vote APC in the coming elections, promising that APC will change the narratives and bring hope to the hopeless.

Earlier, the State Chairman of APC, Ade Adetimehin, said Ondo State people are already “BATified”, saying APC stands strong in the State.

“We are united under the able leadership of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. Ondo State will beat Lagos State in terms of numbers of votes. APC will deliver Ondo State for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. All our candidates for Senate,, Reps and House of Assembly will win in the coming polls”, Adetimehin added.

Richard Olatunde
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
January 7, 2023

The Kashimawo Abiola Democracy Park, Oja-Oba Akure, the Ondo State capital was filled to the brim with mammoth crowd of the All Progressive Congress party member and fans of the party’s presidential candidate, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu, whose campaign train was brought to the state, today.

Photos: Saidu Abdulrahman&Gbenga Fasakin

•”APC The Only Party In Southwest”, He says

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN,CON on Friday inspected the M.K.O Abiola Democracy Park, Akure, ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Rally holding in the state capital tomorrow.

The Governor was joined by his deputy, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa; National Secretary of the APC, Senator Iyiola Omisore; the CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa; National Vice Chairman (South-West), Hon. Isaac Kekemeke; and former National Vice Chairman (South-West), Hon. Bankole Oluwajana.

Others in company of the Governor were members of the State Presidential Campaign Council; Ondo State chairman of APC, Ade Adetimehin and other members of the state working committee, party leaders and other stakeholders.

The candidate train of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and his running mate, Senator Kashim Shettima will storm Akure, Ondo State capital tomorrow.

Speaking after inspecting the venue, Governor Akeredolu expressed satisfaction with the layout of the venue, saying that the campaign rally will be attended by huge crowd.

“Seriously, I’m satisfied. This is not the first time I’m coming here, I have been here a couple of times but this is just to see the final layout as directed by the Organising Committee. I think there is full compliance and we are happy about it.

“No doubt we know that the whole of this place will be jam-packed, all around is going to be filled with people . People should expect at least, to have a glimpse of Asiwaju himself and feel APC.

“Take it or leave it, the only party that I know in South-West is APC. So, we are going to show that we have people behind us”, Akeredolu said.

The visit to the state by APC presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is in continuation of his electioneering campaign ahead of the presidential election slated for next month.

Richard Olatunde ,
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
January 6, 2023.

📸 Olawale Abolade.

In continuation of the advocacy programme to galvanise actions against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence in Ondo State, the Restoration of the Dignity of Womanhood, ROTDOW, on Friday, engaged leaders of market women associations and council of female Chiefs in Ondo State, in a capacity building workshop on how they can contribute to the cause in their environs.

The programme, tagged: “Capacity building Workshop for Association/ Council of Iyalodes/Iyalojas (Female Traditional Leaders and Market Women leaders), which was part of Solidarity, Accountability and Commitment to Ending Violence Against Women And Girls(SAC-VAWG) project of Women Advocate Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC), was funded by Ford Foundation.

It would be recalled that, ROTDOW, being an implementing partner of WARDC on the project, had recently held a Stakeholders meeting to launch the programme in the state.

The latter capacity building workshop was held at the Dejavu hotel and suites, Alagbaka Akure, the Ondo State capital, with participants from across the State.

Addressing the participants, the Chief Executive Officer of ROTDOW, Mrs. Olabisi Omolona, noted that the aim of the programme was to bring them into the advocacy, as critical Stakeholders in achieving the goal of the project.

Commending WADC for its impactful advocacy programmes across Nigeria, Omolona expressed optimism that the capacity building workshop would go a long way to curb the menace in Ondo state.

The ROTDOW CEO affirmed that her Non Governmental Organisation had implemented a community Response Team in communities across the State as a first point of contact for quick intervention.

She assured of readiness of ROTDOW to respond to their calls in case of any situation beyond their intervention in their vicinity.

The Ondo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Mrs. Bunmi Osadahun, in her address, lauded the Convener for bringing the programme to Ondo State as she assured of the commitment of the state governor to prioritise issues that bothered on women.

She charged women to teach their boys how to value girls and not to raise them differently by favouring male child over female; while appealing to women not to partake in habits that would tarnish and devalue the dignity of Womanhood.

The WARDC Executive Director, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, stressed the need to continously engage stakeholders across different strata of the society to achieve reduction in violence against women and girls in our society.

She noted that, the Iyalodes/Iyalojas were closer to many other women and girls, and it would be easier for participants to influence them, hence, the need for the capacity building workshop to enhance their knowledge for the task ahead.

Her words: ” “For this reason, have we called on you female traditional leaders (Iyalode) and leaders of market women associations (Iyaloja) in Ondo state to discuss the burning issue of sexual and gender-based violence and how the association/council can address this vice in our communities. To build new ways and initiatives that deals with and confront cultural patterns of violence, dominance and power, while also empowering women and girls”.

she added that WARDC would continue to champion the cause and engage different groups to help educate women on their roles and rights, saying the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Law is in effect and must be continuously relayed to women as part of strategies towards ending the vice.

In their different reactions to the workshop, the participants affirmed they’ve indeed acquired more knowledge about how they can contribute their quotas to curbing social vices by sensitising other women around them.

They testified to the increasing rate of molestation and abuse meted out to women and girls, as they also lamented the effects of unproper upbringing being witnessed in characters of nowadays children.

The Iyaloja of Akure North, Chief Mrs. Abidakun Bosede, appreciated the Convener of the programme and assured of her readiness to sensitise the Hausa communities in her Market and those market women who were fond of staying late in the market, leaving their children at home in the care of neighbours, therefore, exposed them to molestation.

Mrs Toyin Akinmoyo, a former Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Women Affairs who doubles as the Secretary of APC Market women, noted that curbing the menace should be the major concern of every mother by giving their children enough attention and know what is going on in their lives, through intimacy.

Mrs Adeyale, the Iyaloja Gbogboogbo, enjoined mothers to guide their daughters’ dressing habit and also discourage
the matured ones against taking love oath in a relationship, which according to her, is happening recently.

The Iyaloja of Irun-Akoko, Chief Mrs. Feyi Asolo, emphasised the need for market women not to prioritise trading at the expense of their children’s wellbeing, including hawking during school hours.

They affirmed that the workshop had given them confidence and courage to confront any challenges in the society, while advising the Convener to give adequate publicity to the advocacy on Radio stations, as many were still ignorant of what to do in a situation of gender violence.

Also in attendance was the Special Adviser to the governor on Gender, Mrs Olamide Falana, amongst others.