Nigeria At 60: Providence Coalition Felicitate Nigerians | Southwest-frontier News

PROVIDENCE COALITION FELICITATE NIGERIANS

September 30, 2020

Providence Coalition, a sociopolitical organization with its headquarters in Ibadan has joined in the celebration of 60th Independence anniversary of Nigeria. 

In a press release made available by the Director of Public Affairs, this year's anniversary is peculiar and worthy of celebration because many predictions never saw Nigeria living this long and we were not given any chance of surviving this terrible pandemic but God in his mercy is helping us. 

According to the Chairman, Prince Niran Adeyoju; "though we know our people are in despair and facing many challenges, we must all remember that when there is life, there is hope. A better Nigeria is possible only with our converted efforts. Everyone of us in Providence Coalition wish Nigerians happy 60th Independence anniversary."

The leader of the group, Asiwaju Omilabu Gandhi enjoins the people of Oyo State to keep praying for better leadership in Nigeria, just the way God is answering our prayers in Oyo State. We must be grateful to God for witnessing this significant anniversary of our nation.

HAPPY 60TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY NIGERIA.

Signed

Rotimi Johnson

Director of Public Affairs

Fuel Hike: Oyo APC, An Unrepentant, Pathological Liar With No Conscience — Oyo PDP Fumes | Southwest-frontier News

Oyo APC, An Unrepentant, Pathological Liar With No Conscience — Oyo PDP Fumes

September 30, 2020

The Oyo state chapter of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described a statement credited to the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) that it would have been a disaster if President Muhammadu  Buhari had not increased the fuel price as uncharitable and politics taken too far.

The Oyo state ruling party wondered what the life of a Nigerian is worth to the opposition party which branded itself as progressive without any semblance of progressivism.

A statement signed by the Oyo state PDP publicity secretary, Engr Akeem Olatunji, and made available to newsmen on Monday, indicated that APC has continued to play politics with sheer penchant for telling unbridled lies and deliberately misinforming the unsuspecting members of the public.

The ruling party explained that Oyo state chapter of APC's knack for being mischievous with facts has become notable and unrivalled not only in Nigeria but in Africa stressing that no political party either in or out of government will support such harsh, inhuman, and anti people policy in the face of global pandemic.

The statement reads in part: "words can not describe how embarrassed we are as a political party and as a people seeing how Oyo state chapter of APC told unbridled lies without self caution or restraint on a live television program just in the name of politics.

"Making reference to other African countries oil pump prices with regards to APC's claim that Nigeria's price is the cheapest was not only deceitful but mockery of Nigerians collective sensibility considering what we have been through in the hands of the APC led federal government.

"It is on record that despite the global economic recession which badly affected Nigeria's economy at the time former President Goodluck Jonathan led government increased oil pump price to N97 from N87, APC leaders led by President Buhari and others led what was then described as the mother of all rallies in Nigeria in protest of the new price.

"We are not opposed to deregulation as a policy but there's absolutely no justification for increment in fuel price at a time cost of living and inflation rate in the country are both at record high leading to frustration and increase in suicide tendencies which is evident as reported in recent times.

"It is very unfortunate that APC government without recourse to the untold hardship occasioned by the novel COVID-19 pandemic, went ahead to increase suffering of the already overburdened Nigerians at a time other countries of the world are busy ameliorating their people's hardship.

"The justification given by Oyo APC secretary, Alhaji Mojeed Olaoya while featuring on a program on BCOS TV was not only watery and empty but a clear proof that APC does not in any way care about the masses and whatever suffering they go through but only keen on holding political power.

"We like to reemphasize our position that the very essence of governance is the welfare of the people and whatever policy or program initiated without factoring-in the people first is destined to hit the rock because the people will continue to reject such government and its policies.

"Nigerians are not gullible, APC should not mistake peoples silence and unexpressed frustrations for ignorance because at the right time, Nigerians will use their voters cards to redeem Nigeria from APC led government.

"The Seyi Makinde led government of PDP in Oyo state will continue to show APC the path of good governance and human friendly policies and programs because we understand that we owe them the mandate.

Signed

Engr Akeem Olatunji

Publicity Secretary

Oyo State PDP

World Tourism Day: Hon. Ajibola Appeals To Constituents To Support Government Initiative And Effort Towards Development

BEING THE ADDRESS DELIVERED BY HON AJIBOLA MURAINA. MEMBER, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, IBARAPA CENTRAL/ IBARAPA NORTH FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY ON WORLD TOURISM DAY COMMEMORATION HELD AT IDERE HILLS, IDERE ON SUNDAY, 27TH SEPTEMBER, 2020

September 28, 2020

His Excellency, Engr Seyi Makinde, The Executive Governor of Oyo State.

The Deputy Governor, Engr Rauf Olaniyan.

The Honourable Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr Wasiu Olatubosun.

Special Adviser on Tourism, Hon Akeem Ige.

Members Of Tourism Board, Hon Sarah Sobowale and Hon Okedigba.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr Bunmi Babalola. 

The Caretaker Chairman, Ibarapa Central LGA, Hon Sharafadeen Olaoniye Bibiire.

The Onidere of Idere, Oba Kingsley Onikola Oyelami Olufiji II.

Political and Community Leaders

Eminent Citizens of Idere.

Gentlemen Of The Press.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.

First and foremost, let me express my gratitude to Almighty God for sparing our lives to witness today's epoch making event in the history of Oyo State. Today, for the first time, a commemoration of global significance : World Tourism Day, is being held outside the capital, Ibadan and here in Idere.

It is my honour and privilege to congratulate His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, the Honourable Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, The Onidere of Idere, as well as the entire good people of Oyo State on this paradigm shift in global special days commemorations.

The Oyo State goverment in moving this event here to Idere Hills is demonstrating and symbolizing her commitment to the development of the tourism potentials of all the various parts of the state. We are happy that you chose Idere Hills first.

Idere Hills is one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Nigeria. Take a look around you and enjoy the sights of the unique ecosystem upon which the various cultural sites are integrated. You have probably seen such cultural sites as 

1. Onidere Old Palace.

2. Fish Lake.

3. Aroye Hill.

4. Atapa Water.

5. 600 Years Old Defence Wall.

6. Iyara Wall.

7. Natural Swimming Pool 

and others.

Get ready to see them if you have not. The great tree you passed at the entrance of the town is called Ape Tree. It is over 300 years old. You may want to go back and start right there in case you missed it.

Tourists from all over the world can be attracted here, if these sites are properly developed and presented to them. It is good we now have a government that appreciates the need to develop the potentials of Idere Hills as a tourist centre and we are looking forward to the improvements and the publicity necessary to put Idere Hills on the World Tourism Map.

It is estimated that tourism represents 9% of world Gross Domestic Product, GDP and about one in every 11 jobs are generated by tourism, which is capable of producing about 1.4 trillion dollars in export of services. This represents about 6% of world exports and 6% of exports from the undeveloped countries. It is encouraging to know that unlike the Information Technology, IT industry and other high technology industries, the tourism industry is one in which, even a developing economy like ours can be a major player in.

The United States, US travel and tourism industry generated over $1.6 trillion in economic output in 2017, supporting 7.8 million US jobs. Travel and tourism exports accounted for nearly a third (32 percent) of all US services exports. Some cities like Dubai in the United Arabs Emirates, UAE have transformed from being a crude oil-based economy into a tourism- based economy. Millions of tourists bring in trillions of hard currency into the Dubai economy every year. However, this suffered a slump with the incidence of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic is no doubt a serious global challenge to the tourism industry. However, it is also an opportunity. Even now that travel restrictions are being lifted, many of our people will not be too eager to renew their plans for  family holidays outside Nigeria. For years, or at least until an effective vaccine is discovered, people will be reluctant to get on a plane for a distant destination just for the fun of it. This is an opportunity for us in Nigeria and Oyo State in particular to develop our recreational and tourist centres towards wooing those reluctant travellers to use and get to like the available facilities at home. They will in turn lead the global tourist community here when the pandemic is finally over. I hereby appeal to the  Oyo State goverment that the initiative should start here at Idere Hills. It will be a big boost to the economy of our dear state and the drive to increase our Internally Generated Revenue, IGR.

On a final note, I want to appeal to all our people here in Idere and in Oyo State at large to continue to support every initiative and effort of government towards the development of our state and her economy. We should also continue to live carefully, conserving all the COVID-19 prevention protocols until the pandemic is fully over.

Thanks so much for coming. May God in His infinite mercy bless us and take us back to our various stations safely.

Olubunmi Sodipo

S. A. Media.

Makinde Is Fulfilling Campaign Promises, Reviving Oyo's Economy - Media Aide | Southwest-frontier News

Makinde Is Fulfilling Campaign Promises, Reviving Oyo's Economy-media Aide

…says Adelabu is blinded by ambition, lost touch with reality

September 26, 2020

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, has said that the governor has been fulfilling his electoral promises and building a new Oyo State.

The governor's aide stated that contrary to criticisms by the gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressives Congress(APC) in the 2019 election, Mr Adebayo Adelabu that none of the promises Makinde made to the electorate has been fulfilled, the governor has in the last one year and four months, placed the state on a sound footing for economic expansion and put in place policies and programmes that are lifting the people from poverty to prosperity.

A statement by the governor’s Media Aide indicated that Adelabu’s comments are clear indications that he has lost touch with the current reality in Oyo State, having been blinded by unbridled ambition to govern the state.

He said: "Governor Makinde, as the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), made promises on the campaign train which were later crystalised into the four-point service agenda of his administration including Security, Health, Education and expanded Economy (using the agricultural value chain.)

“14 months into the tenure, notwithstanding the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, which rattled the world and slowed down the pace of developmental works, the administration of Engineer Makinde has been busy recording one great landmark achievement after the other. 

"Even the blind can see the improvements made to the Health sector; everyone can see that the free and qualitative education is yielding fruits; that the security has been taken a top notch; and that the economy is expanding fast with improved infrastructure and revival of moribund companies that harbour huge revenue potentials,” the statement read in part.

The statement further maintained that thanks to the prudence and ingenuity of the Makinde administration, which recently introduced the Alternative Projects Funding Approach (APFA), the government is presently working on the all-important 67 km Moniya-Iseyin road, to open up the food basket of the state; the 21km Ajia-Airport road; remodeling the Adamasingba Stadium, as well as fixing the abandoned Agbowo shopping complex, Ibadan.

The statement indicated that Makinde's achievements in 14 months have already outclassed the returns of the eight year tenure of the immediate past APC administration in the state.

According to the  statement, the achievements of the administration in the health sector include the equipment of the Infectious Disease Centre, Olodo, Ibadan; the setting up of Saki Specialist Hospital, Saki and the determination to remodel and equip Grade III Primary Health Centres across each of the electoral wards, which is well on course, saying these are landmarks the APC chieftain won't acknowledge.

The statement added: "The Oranyan Maternity Centre, Eyin Grammar Comprehensive Health Centre in Ibadan, and Aafin Oyo and Aawe PHCs in Oyo zone are great testaments to Makinde's revitalization of the Health sector.

 “Governor Makinde has also completed the Phase One of the Light-Up Oyo State Project and commenced the second phase. It is to be noted that the Light-Up Project is a multi-purpose project which addresses the security challenges, enhances night life and expands the economy as we drive the state towards a 24-hour economy status."

The statement added that the Makinde government has embarked on a steady rebuilding of the state's infrastructure, adding that the administration has also been guiding the state towards a solid economic revival through different policies and initiatives.

According to the statement, the claims by Adelabu that he would remove Makinde from office in 2023 amounted to a wild dream of a man blinded by ambition.

It added that Adelabu lacked the understanding of what the state needed to move forward, since he does not have any form of blueprint to develop the state.

The statement read: "Let it be on record that the people of Oyo State are happy with the deliverables by the administration of Governor Makinde, since he has practically turned the state to a huge construction site. "Everyone is happy that the governor is delivering on his promises.

“But one is in no doubt to state that Adelabu has never read a line of the Roadmap to Accelerated Development of Oyo State 2019-2023, which is the book of government for every step Governor Makinde has taken since May 2019. One is also not in doubt to state that Adelabu does not know that rather than tax the hapless students of Oyo State, Governor Makinde has been paying In excess of N526 million per term to primary and secondary schools in the state to cater for the needs of.their pupils and students as part of his free education policy.”

The statement particularly frowned on the misguided view of the APC candidate on payment of salaries in the state and what he described as populist programmes, saying that Adelabu's statement showed clearly that he was happy with the previous administration’s shabby treatment of workers, teachers and pensioners.

“We must equally put on record that the people of Oyo State are not looking for a governor that will refuse to pay their salaries and gratuities; return the pensioners to deadwood,  who will only be paid in percentages and owe teachers for years, as his mentor, former Governor Abiola Ajimobi did.

"Adelabu has never missed an opportunity to criticise the effort of the Makinde government to ensure prompt payment of salaries and pensions on or before 25th of every month. "Unfortunately for him, he does not know that by constantly pushing money in excess of N11 billion into the state’s economy every 30 days, Makinde is deliberately reflating Oyo State's economy and stabilizing the buying power of the people.

"It is to be placed on record as well that since May 29, 2019, Governor Makinde has never missed the payment of salaries/pensions on the 25th. In many instances, the payments have come earlier. In fact, workers received their September salaries on the 24th. 

"But that is what Adelabu chose to criticise. The lesson from this is that Adelabu, like his mentor, detests the workforce and pensioners of the state and thinks that they do not deserve to be paid as and when due. The former CBN Deputy Governor criticising Makinde for paying salaries, showed that if ever he gets to govern the state, the welfare of workers and pensioners will not be his priority. Of course, no one would expect anything different," the statement said.

"Anyway, the statement credited to Adelabu did not throw up a surprise. It is expected that the man, who has been on vacation from politics since he lost the last election, will look for a way to come back to limelight now that the dynamics of politics in his party shows that no one will impose him on the party any longer.

"What is surprising, however, is the fact that Adelabu has allowed his unbridled capitalistic tendencies to blind his eyes to developments in Oyo State, which he sought to govern, to the extent that he could not separate politics from development.

"For one, coming out to say that the administration of Governor Makinde has not done any of the things he promised showed that Adelabu has lost touch with reality; his only reality appears to be how to corner landed properties and build ventures for personal gains. If that is not the situation, one wonders how anyone reasonable would close his eyes to the massive infrastructure development going on in the state.

"Indeed, one would have loved to continue reeling out the achievements of the incumbent government in the state, but it will be needless, knowing that nothing can make Adelabu buy into a reasonable argument.

"We will like to state, however, that Adelabu should not take his arrogance to the point of playing god by claiming to have power to remove Makinde in 2023. No matter what he does, Makinde will not be distracted. The governor has not said anything about 2023, because he is busy delivering on the mandate given to him. When the time comes to talk about 2023, however, it is clear as crystal that the people will not allow charlatans and wicked politicians to take advantage of them. They already know those who are only interested in building capitalistic ventures and milking the people to their bone 

marrows."

Signed:

Taiwo Adisa

Chief Press Secretary to Governor Seyi Makinde

Providence Coalition Felicitates Chief Ladoja At 76 | Southwest-frontier News

PROVIDENCE COALITION FELICITATES CHIEF LADOJA AT 76

September 25, 2020

A sociopolitical organization with its headquarters in Ibadan, Providence Coalition has joined millions of Nigerians to rejoice with high Chief Rashidi Ladoja on the occasion of his 76th.

According to the press statement by the organization's Director of public affairs, High Chief Ladoja is an honorable man of the masses and worthy of emulation. We thank God for another year in good health and sound mind. 

The Chairman of Providence Coalition, Prince Niran Adeyoju, Asiwaju Omilabu Gandhi and all the members celebrate the Osi Olubadan on this joyous occasion. 

Signed. 

Rotimi Johnson Ojasope

Director of Publicity

Our Road Is In A Deplorable State, Please Come To Our Aide - Community Begs Omi-Apata Chair | Southwest-frontier News

TEMIDIRE, NNPC RESIDENTS APPEAL TO CHAIRMAN OF OMI-APATA LCDA TO REPAIR BAD ROAD

October 14, 2020

The residents association of temidire at NNPC, Apata have appealed to Omi-Apata Lcda to repair bad roads in the community area.

The spokesman for temidire residents association who proved anonymous said, with reference to what the Chairman of Temidire Residents Association posted on the social media platform, below were pictures of the sorry state of the major road in our community.

This road from NNPC leads to Akilapa, Ajipaala and Gbekuba environs. The deplorable state of the road had adversely affected economic activities in the community, and
We have submitted our pleas to Omi-Apata LCDA, we appeal to the Honorable Chairman to kndly use his good office to help us with the repair of these bad state of the road that has become death trap in the community area and environs. 

We also use this opportunity to congratulate the Chairman once again on the giant strides he has recorded in the short while he assumed office.

"Hon. Sheriff Adeojo has performed but we urge him to do more because that is the only way the people can enjoy the dividends of democracy,” he said.

See More Photos:

Alaafin Of Oyo Reveal: Why I Always Wear ‘abetiaja’ And Not The Crown | Southwest-frontier News

WHY I ALWAYS WEAR ‘ABETIAJA’ AND NOT THE CROWN

September 23, 2020

Oba Lamidi Adeyemi has revealed why the ‎abetiaja cap has become the symbol of the Alaafin of Oyo, explaining that the crown must be ‘sparingly’ worn for its distinctiveness and cultural essence. He added that some monarchs have their crowns into fashion objects.

In a recent interview with Nigerian Tribune, the monarch disclosed that “the ‎crown is a sacred object. It is the most prized paraphernalia of kingship. It connotes the essence of the Oba. Yoruba Obas wear crowns for cultural, traditional and religious purposes. 

During festivals, the attraction and indeed gravitational pull of the crown are unparalleled.”

According to Oba Adeyemi, who is close to his 50th year on the throne, “the subjects must be eager to see the type of crown the Oba would wear. An average subject must see the crown of the Oba once in his lifetime. Subjects can only see the Alaafin putting on his crown in pictures.

 How many times is Her Imperial Majesty, the Queen of England, seen wearing her crown? What you see on her is her hat. It is not right to find traditional rulers wearing their crowns to just any kind of meeting or social function. Some monarchs have turned it into fashion objects. You will also find them carrying the same staff but with different colours everywhere. Even if their subjects don’t publicly talk about it, they are not happy about it.”

Speaking on why he sticks to the abetiaja cap, ‎he noted: “The abetiaja cap is a way to send a message. You can see that it is designed in a manner resembling the ears of a dog. The way I shape each piece sends a message.

 There is a specific message attached when one piece is shaped vertically and the other horizontally. If the two pieces are shaped vertically or horizontally, there is a message to be communicated. These messages are coded; only those who are versed in Yoruba culture can decode them. This is one of the intangible cultural heritages of Yoruba.”

Oba Adeyemi said the Yoruba nation is one of the strongest ethnic groups in Nigeria. ‎”What you call the Yoruba question is not as simple as you asked. At the same time, it is not that complex if we are ready to listen to the truth and adhere strictly to it. Anything short of this will not and will never address the question. It is unfortunate that despite our western education, we address issues based on sentiment and emotion. 

All of this will not take us anywhere in search of the truth. I think it is better we leave it at that. Before we leave it, I must say that I have said a lot and written a lot on this. But I must say it again that there are some important people who love to search for knowledge.”

The reverred, however, revealed that his first decade‎ in office as Alaafin was very rough. Hear him: “My first years were rough, very rough. That period was characterised by some challenges and trappings occasioned by royalty. I met practically an empty palace. So, I had to start from the scratch. You could understand what that task meant.

“I survived the challenges with my uncanny ability to confront them well. I survived the challenges with hope, determination and belief in God.”

He added that living in the palace of the Alake of Egba and other places prepared him for the throne. ‎”Apart from the palace of the Alake, Oba Adedapo Ademola, I lived in other places, all of which influenced me. I lived with a doctor, a lawyer and one of the principals of Saint Andrew College, Olateko. When I was living with these people, I imitated them but I was being mocked, but I overcome all the challenges.

Disclaimer: I'm Not Contesting Against Makinde in 2023, Ilaka Disclaim Poster in Circulation | Southwest-frontier News

I'M NOT CONTESTING AGAINST MAKINDE IN 2023, ILAKA DISCLAIM POSTER IN CIRCULATION

September 22, 2020

The attention of Chief Bisi Luqman Ilaka, Chief of Staff to Governor Seyi Makinde, has been drawn to some campaign posters being circulated on social media by unscrupulous individuals linking Chief Ilaka with a non-existing governorship ambition. It is so obvious that those behind the evil agenda are envious of the very cordial relationship between the amiable and performing Governor Seyi Makinde and his Chief of Staff and are therefore hellbent on driving a wedge between them.

It is not surprising that these faceless individuals, after terribly failing in their machinations to smear the Chief of Staff through various tales (and they being apostles of lee mo -hang it on him kind of politics), have chosen the ignoble path of a phoney governorship aspiration to give Chief Ilaka a bad name and hang him. And they will continue to fail. 

Governor Makinde, who is reputed as the people's Governor, even beyond the shores of Oyo State, is doing very very well and will be given a second term mandate by the good people of Oyo State, no matter how hard these political jobbers try to spin untruth and disseminate same. The general public is advised to ignore such poster. Chief Ilaka knew the governorship existed before he chose to contest as Senator. 2023 is in God's hands. Ilaka is focused on delivering on what Governor Makinde assigned to him.

Breaking: Oyo Pdp Congratulates Edo State Over Obaseki's Victory, Commends Makinde's Role | Southwest-frontier News

OYO PDP CONGRATULATES EDO STATE OVER OBASEKI'S VICTORY, COMMENDS MAKINDE'S ROLE

September 21, 2020

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Oyo state chapter has congratulated the people of Edo state over the victory of governor Godwin Obaseki.

The ruling party in Oyo state described governor Obaseki's victory as a victory for the people of Edo state adding that it was a battle of self liberation and full alignment to the PDP family across the south south region signalling an end to godfatherism in Nigerian politics.

The Oyo state chapter of PDP conveyed its congratulatory message in a statement signed by its state publicity secretary, Engr Akeem Olatunji, and made available to newsmen on Monday, 21st Sept, 2020.

According to the statement, Oyo PDP said that Nigerians have awakened to the reality of APC's false propaganda as their treasured tool of dissuading unsuspecting members of the public to support their course.

The party added that the reign of godfatherism which dominated Oyo politics in the past was brought to its end by governor Seyi Makinde on grounds of integrity, political will, genuineness of purpose, and purposeful leadership noting that same has been extended to Edo.

The party particularly commended Governor Seyi Makinde, Governor Nyesom Wike, Governor Okowa, Prince Uche Secondus, and other leaders for championing the course of ending godfatherism in Nigerian politics stressing that Ondo is next after Edo state stressing that it is now evident that no external influence both from Lagos or Abuja can subvert the resolve and will of the people who are always at the receiving end.

The party explained that the end of riding to power on the back of political blackmail was gone adding that the awakened political consciousness in Nigerians occasioned the Edo state election victory for not only the people but the PDP. 

The party noted that performance, integrity, commitment, and the political will to deliver without interference from some 'godfathers' must be the bane of entrusting power to anyone seeking public office.

Oyo state PDP noted further, that Obaseki's performance as the governor of Edo state in the last four years satisfied the people which was why they have renewed his mandate of another four years in a resounding manner.

Oyo state PDP described Obaseki as the first governor in Nigeria to govern a state on the platform of both APC and PDP in successive succession stressing that only sterling performance can make anyone achieve such political feat.

The statement commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security agencies for what it described as a job well done noting that if INEC enjoys full autonomy as electoral umpire in Nigeria, the issue of federal might in election will end naturally.

Oyo state PDP, however urged opposition parties in Edo state, especially candidate of the APC, Pastor Osagie Ize-iyamu in the 2020 governorship election, to embrace brotherliness and forge a common front with Governor Obaseki to move Edo state forward.

Signed

Engr Akeem Olatunji

Publicity Secretary 

Oyo State PDP

Opinion: Engr Seyi Makinde, The Courageous Leader | By Rotimi Johnson (Ojasope)

ENGR SEYI MAKINDE, THE COURAGEOUS LEADER

Excerpt from the Facebook memory of Rotimi Johnson Ojasope on  21/09/2014....

September 21, 2020

Courage is simply defined as the ability and willingness to confront fear, pain, danger, uncertainty or intimidation. Courage is not the absence of threats but the willingness to move on, despite the threats. There's a measure of courage in anyone that dares to join Nigeria politics but levels differ. It is common to use courage to qualify many successful people but I do not buy such flattery; not all successful people are courageous. It is wrong to describe anyone as courageous politician or leader without defining moments. 

Having a voice where others have their way takes courage; the majority sure carry the vote but the minority got a voice. Not flowing with the tides, not submitting to tyranny and contesting against the powers that be are courageous moves. It's only a very courageous man that stands for something, even if he has to stand alone. A revolutionary leader must be very courageous because it takes strong political will to midwife the desired positive changes and change the status quo. 

Yes, our politicians are courageous but not very courageous. They don't speak up, they are sycophantic and would tolerate any wrongdoing as long as money continues to flow. Prof Dora Akunyili( of blessed memory)  readily comes to mind when talking about VERY courageous public officers. Sometimes, very courageous people are boastful and arrogant but Engr Seyi Makinde is very humble.

Ladies and gentlemen, great people of Oyo state, I present a very courageous politician, an humble soul and someone with a big heart to you; Engr Seyi Makinde. He's courageous enough to change the status quo, humble enough to patronise the political stakeholders and visionary enough to midwife the much desired positive changes. This is not someone that will start a sacrificial project, after the people have suffered unduly, abandon it because of the prospect of second term. 

Join us at the Polo ground on Thursday 25/09/2014 by 9am as Engr Seyi Makinde declares for the governorship race of Oyo State. Only a very courageous young man can dare to contest against the customary army of retirees in Oyo state. It really takes great courage to go about his campaign in this unusual manner.

"Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen"  By Winston Churchill

Come one, come all!!

Rotimi Johnson Ojasope

Edo 2020: Providence Coalition Congratulates Gov Makinde, PDP On Edo Victory | Southwest-frontier News

PROVIDENCE COALITION CONGRATULATES GOV MAKINDE, PDP ON EDO VICTORY

September 21, 2020

The Providence Coalition, a sociopolitical organization with it's headquarters in Ibadan has congratulated the Governor of Oyo state and the PDP national on Edo state victory and Governor Obaseki securing the much deserved second term mandate from his people.

According to the Press statement released by the groups Director of Public Affairs, the roles of Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Wike of Rivers and Okowa of Delta in boosting the moral of our party candidate and confidence of the people cannot be overemphasized. Notable and commendable was the Edo PDP Situation room which was a replica of what Governor Seyi Makinde introduced in the 2019 election that brought him to office.

Providence Coalition is the Sociopolitical organization that facilitated the aspiration of Senator Kola Balogun and has it's spread in Oyo State and few other states in Nigeria. According to the Chairman of the group, Prince Niran Adeyoju; "We are very delighted for the much coveted victory in Edo State and the addition of another State to our party's coffers. We pray for same success and peaceful election in Ondo state where Governor Makinde is the Chairman of the national campaign Council".

Signed.R

otimi Johnson.

Director of Public Affairs

Edo 2020: Okowa Congratulates Obaseki On His Re-election | Southwest-frontier News

OKOWA CONGRATULATES OBASEKI ON HIS RE-ELECTION

September 20, 2020

Delta Governor, Sen. (Dr) Ifeanyi Okowa, has congratulated his Edo counterpart, Mr Godwin Obaseki and his deputy, Comrade Philip Shaibu, on their re-election.

Obaseki, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was announced winner of Saturday governorship election in the state by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after polling 307,955 votes to defeat his main challenger, Mr Osagie Ize-Iyamu of All Progressives Congress (APC), who got 223,619 votes.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Olisa Ifeajika, in Asaba, on Sunday, Okowa described the re-election of Obaseki as “the confirmation of the will of the people” and called on Nigerians to always stand for good leaders as Edo people just did for Obaseki.

He stated that the people of Edo across the 18 local government areas of the state spoke loudly and clearly in their reaffirmation of the choice of Obaseki as their Governor.

The governor, who is the Chairman of South-South Governors’ Forum, said that with the re-election of Obaseki, the entire region was now being ruled by the PDP.

“Let me congratulate my brother Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki and his Deputy, Comrade Philip Shaibu, on their victory in the Sept. 19 Governorship election in Edo.

“It is heart-warming to see you re-emerge as Governor of Edo against all odds and I am grateful to the people of Edo for shunning the entreaties of retrogressive forces who were deviously-bent on subverting the wishes of the people.

“Let me also thank the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for being truly independent as required by the laws of our land.

“The most significant aspect of this victory is the peaceful outcome of the election as Edo people proved pundits wrong by ensuring that the elections were devoid of violence," he said.

Felicitating with the PDP on the victory, Okowa said, “let me also congratulate our great party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Chairman of the PDP National Campaign Council and Governor of Rivers, Mr Nyesom Wike and other members of the campaign Council for their efforts which led to the victory of the party in Edo.

“The brotherhood displayed by the Governors of the PDP and other party members towards the re-election of Obaseki is what the country needs to take the nation to greater heights in 2023.

"Going forward as a nation, we can only develop further if the people are allowed to choose their leaders at all levels without any hindrance.

“It is therefore a clarion call on INEC to continue to do the right thing as an unbiased umpire.’’

“On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I congratulate you my brother Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki and your deputy, Comrade Philip Shaibu, on your resounding re-election by the resilient people of Edo who displayed honour, dignity and courage.

“It is my prayer that God will grant you wisdom, knowledge and the needed resources to attend to your campaign promises to the people,” he added

Edo 2020: Wike, Okowa, Makinde Urge Eternal Vigilance At Collation Centres, Commend Inec, Security Agencies

WIKE, OKOWA, MAKINDE URGE ETERNAL VIGILANCE AT COLLATION CENTRES, COMMEND INEC, SECURITY AGENCIES

……AS OBASEKI DEFEATS IZE-IYAMU IN OREDO LGA

September 19, 2020

National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Campaign Council and Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, Governor of Delta State, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa and Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, have called on the various stakeholders in the Edo State gubernatorial election to ensure the collation centres are secured.

The governors who spoke to journalists in Benin City on Saturday, commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the various security agencies for conducting  what they called a peaceful election in the state, noting that the work is not over until the results of the election are released.

Meanwhile, candidate of the PDP, Governor Godwin Obaseki on Saturday defeated the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Osagie Ize-Iyamu in Oredo Local Government Area of the state, Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy, Crusoe Osagie said.

According to Wike, “The Edo election has been quite peaceful and I want to commend everybody for the peace we have enjoyed. Like I have always said, problems do not arise at election but during collation. So we call on INEC to fulfill the promise it made to Nigerians that it will release the Edo election results at real time.

“We are very happy with the election so far. But you cannot find security presence at the ward collation centres. After results have been announced at polling units, we expect that police presence will be more at the ward collation centres. That is where we feel concerned now. We appeal to the federal government to mobilise security personnel to the various ward collation centres and the local  government collation centres, so that the people’s mandate can be protected.

“I urge the people; the media, civil society organisations and voters to be vigilant at this time and watch over developments at the collation centres.”

Governors Okowa and Makinde also stressed the need to ensure that the success recorded in the voting process should be extended to collation of results so that the PDP and Nigerians will commend INEC,  for a job well done.

"The people of Edo State have indeed spoken very loud and clear. We want the will of the people to remain sacrosanct and must not be subverted under any guise, Makinde said.

Makinde, A Promoter Of Religious Tolerance — Oyo Islamic Leaders | Southwest-frontier News

MAKINDE, A PROMOTER OF RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE — OYO ISLAMIC LEADERS

September 18, 2020

Muslim leaders in Oyo State on Thursday commended Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, declaring that he has shown brightly as a promoter of religious tolerance.

The notable Muslim leaders in the state including the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Alhaji AbuBakr Agbotomokekere; former president of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Bayo Oyero and the Asiwaju Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Lateef Oyelade, gave the commendation at the commissioning of the renovated and improved Ibadan Central Eid Ground, Agodi, Ibadan.

The leaders, who delivered separate addresses at the brief event on Thursday, commended Governor Makinde and the Ibadan North-East Local Government chairman, Hon. Ibrahim Akintayo, for completing the project in record time.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Makinde, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the duo of Oyero and Oyelade declared that the renovation of the Eid ground by the governor demonstrated his respect for Islam and also showed that he would always give all religions what is due to them.

They equally warned Muslims to always find amicable means of informing the governor whenever they feel there is something that the government needs to do for the Muslim Ummah, rather than raising religious sentiments and opposing the government in the media.

The event was attended by the Chief of Staff to the governor, Chief Bisi Ilaka, who came in the company of the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Bayo Lawal; the Deputy Chief of Staff to the governor, Mr. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, and the Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Sustainable Development Goals, Mr. Kunle Yusuff (MON), among others.

Others, who attended the event included notable leaders of the Muslim Ummah in Ibadanland as well as the chairmen of local governments and LCDAs in Ibadanland.

In his speech, the chairman of Ibadan North-East Local Government, Hon. Akintayo praised the Makinde government for approving the renovation and facelift of the Eid ground, which he said, last received the attention of the government during the tenure of Senator Rashidi Ladoja as governor of the state.

He maintained that the Muslim community had been responsible for the maintenance of the ground for years using contributions from well-meaning individuals, adding that the decision of the Makinde administration to give the Eid ground a facelift demonstrated the administration’s commitment to the wellbeing of adherents of all religions.

He listed some of the renovations executed at the ground as including the reconstruction of the dilapidated fence, plastering, and painting of the fence, construction of carport at the pulpit to provide shed for the Imam, provision of potable water, construction of solar streetlights, among others.

In his speech, Chief Oyero said: “Today is historical for good reasons. I grew to know this Eid. I am sure it is over 80-years-old. We thank Allah for how far Islam has come in Ibadanland.

 

“We appreciate the governor whom God put this in his heart and he delivered. Our fathers say that whatever a man does in God’s house, he will reap the reward in Aljannah. I also appreciate the chairman of Ibadan North-East.

“The relationship between Muslims and the governor will not be soured. The relationship with the government will not be soured. Whatever is not enough, we should not go on the radio or newspapers to fight the government. Please, inform Baba Imam and they will find a way of letting the governor hear your yearnings.

“This governor is a Christian but I know he built a mosque and he put an Imam there, a descendant of Lanase and he has been doing other things. For someone doing these kinds of things, we need not be forceful against him in any area where things are not sufficient. We should inform him. I have known the governor for years; he is a level-headed person.

“We all should know that if a Muslim is governor today, a Christian can be there tomorrow. If we agree that this is the case, then we should not be opposing each other. In my larger family, we are five families and two are Christians while three are Muslims. We always celebrated Christmas together and they also observed Ramadan with us. That's how we grew up. But the youths of today prefer to do things with agitation. We must learn to tolerate each other.

“On behalf of religious leaders, I urge everyone to live in harmony. I want to inform the governor that there are more things that he will give to the Muslim Ummah. Whatever we got from the immediate past government, we do not want them to reduce. We want additions.

“We appreciate Governor Makinde and Akintayo but we are asking for more. Everything we put before him, he should consider and do for us. Our prayers either we are Christians or Muslims is that this government will succeed.”

Similarly, Alhaji Oyelade urged Muslim faithful not to be confrontational with the Makinde government, but to find ways of channeling grievances to the government and seeking amicable resolutions.

He said: “Please, we should not raise religious sentiments. Whatever anyone does, people will talk about it. Continue to do good and you will find comfort. The governor, who is our leader today, is a good son. We must accept what Allah has said.

“For years, this area was not well-lit. People are always waylaid on this road at night but see what the governor has done here, putting street lights. Everyone who is agitating, we are not asking you not to talk, but do not criticise without reasons. Let us join hands with this government. Whatever we ask for, with good representation, the government will do it and whatever is not enough, we will continue to ask.”

Oyo State Government Approves Resumption Date For Public And Private Primary, Secondary And Tertiary Institutions

Oyo State Government Approves Resumption Date For Public And Private Primary, Secondary And Tertiary Institutions

September 15, 2020

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has approved the resumption dates for Public and Private Primary, Secondary and Tertiary Institutions in the State.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Education, Barrister Olasukanmi Olaleye, made available to newsmen on Tuesday. 

According to the statement, “the resumption date for 2020/2021 academic Session for Public / Private Primary and Secondary Schools as announced by the State Ministry of Education, Science and Technology will commence on Monday, 21st September, 2020.

“The revised Guidelines for Primary and Secondary Schools now include the followings:

a. Schools will now operates morning and afternoon shifting for pupils and students of primary and secondary schools as stated below:

Primary   1-3   8.00 am – 11.00 am

Primary  4 – 6 12 noon –  3.00 pm

JSSS     1 -3      8.00 am – 11.00 am

SSS       1- 3      12 noon – 3.00  pm

b. It becomes mandatory for all Schools, Public and Private to constitute Covid-19 Task force to be headed by Heads of Schools with Two members of Staff

c. School Heads are advised to make temporary use of spaces like Laboratories, Libraries and examination hall as classroom where it is necessary in order to observe social distancing.

d. Pupils / Students should be attached to Chairs and Tables as well as discouraging sharing of items.

3.   In another development, the Governor has also approved the re-opening of State owned Tertiary institutions and Private Institutions for regular academic activities to commence from Monday 28th September, 2020

Academic Boards and Senate of institutions are expected to fixed their date  and comply strictly with Covid 19 guidelines for the reopenings of schools....

Signed

Bar Olasunkanmi Olaleye

The Honourable Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology

The Yoruba World Congress (YWC) Has Confirmed Readiness For the 2020 Yoruba Annual Celebrations | Southwest-frontier News

The Yoruba World Congress (YWC) has confirmed readiness for the 2020 Yoruba Annual Celebrations

September 15, 2020

The one-week long global events approved by the YWC Leaders Council starts on Wednesday to mark the end of the Kiriji War and declare the YWC Manifesto for a Yoruba Nation.

The 2020 Yoruba Day Celebrations will be hosted by YWC Chapters in Nigeria, South Africa, USA, England, Brazil and Cuba.

Speaking about the event, chairman of the planning committee who is also secretary YWC, Prof Anthony Kila, said the series of global events will be coordinated by a sixteen-man international committee made up of prominent Yoruba leaders resident in five continents across the world.

He said: “Some lined up events include manifesto for Yoruba Nation, hosted in Lagos, Yoruba Global Library Project, hosted in the USA, Yoruba in the world, hosted in Brazil and Cuba, tomorrow people and Yoruba Culture, hosted in Ibadan, Yoruba Community Development and Empowerment, hosted in South Africa, safety & security in Yorubaland, hosted by Amotekun ni gbobo wa.

Other events include Yoruba Women in National Development; Yoruba Youths Summit and Yoruba Elders and Leaders Lunch.

Kila explained that the planning committee is very conscious of health and safety issues and will therefore be putting in measures to safeguard participants before and during every event.

The events, according to Kila, will have a few people gather at various venues and everyone can log in from anywhere in the world to participate in the events online. The events will also be aired on TV and radio.

Opinion: International Day of Democracy 2020 | By Olubunmi Sodipo - Southwest-frontier News

INTERNATIONAL DAY OF DEMOCRACY 2020

September 15, 2020

In 2007 the United Nations General Assembly resolved to observe 15 September as the International Day of Democracy—with the purpose of promoting and upholding the principles of democracy—and invited all member states and organizations to commemorate the day in an appropriate manner that contributes to raising public awareness.

The preamble of the resolution affirmed that:

1. While democracies share common features, there is no single model of democracy and that democracy does not belong to any country or region.

2. Democracy is a universal value based on the freely-expressed will of people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural systems, and their full participation in all aspects of life.

The 2019 theme for democracy day was 'participation'. It highlights the fact that democracy is about people. Democracy is built on inclusion, equal treatment and participation - and it is a fundamental building block for peace, sustainable development and human rights. Tried as I might, my searches have not unearthed the theme for the year 2020, but you will agree with me that it cannot be outside the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The unprecedented COVID-19 crisis has resulted in major social, political and legal challenges globally. As states around the world adopt emergency measures to address the crisis, it is critical that they continue to uphold the rule of law, protect and respect international standards and basic principles of legality, and the right to access justice, remedies and due process.

UN Secretary General António Guterres has urged governments to be transparent, responsive and accountable in their COVID-19 response and ensure that any emergency measures are legal, proportionate, necessary and non-discriminatory. “The best response is one that responds proportionately to immediate threats while protecting human rights and the rule of law,” he said.

The Secretary-General's policy brief says states must respect and protect, among other rights, freedom of expression and of the press, freedom of information, freedom of association and of assembly. Concerns in many countries in the context of COVID-19 include:  

a. Measures to control the flow of information and crackdown on freedom of expression and press freedom against an existing background of shrinking civic space.

b. Arrest, detention, prosecution or persecution of political opponents, journalists, doctors and healthcare workers, activists and others for allegedly spreading “fake news”.

c. Aggressive cyber-policing and increased online surveillance.

d. Postponement of elections is raising serious constitutional issues in some cases and may lead to rising tensions.

e. The crisis raises the question how best to counter harmful speech while protecting freedom of expression. 

f. Sweeping efforts to eliminate misinformation or disinformation can result in purposeful or unintentional censorship, which undermines trust. The most effective response is accurate, clear and evidence-based information from sources people trust.

Around the world civil society organizations have answered the UN's call to action to address and counteract the wide range of ways the Covid-19 crisis may impair democracy and increase authoritarianism, by:

(i) Developing media literacy and digital safety, more critical than ever as activism is forced online, so as to address the risk of suppression, interference and closing of civic space;

(ii) Fighting misinformation, disinformation and hate speech, which have mushroomed in the crisis;

(iii) Training journalists remotely to report on the impact of the pandemic with in-depth, fact-checked coverage, while staying safe on the front line;

(iv) Empowering women against gender-based violence, which has surged amid Covid-19 lockdowns, quarantines, and social and economic pressures;

(v) Helping to highlight the challenges of inequality and weak service delivery made worse by the crisis, with specific focus on the needs and rights of women, youth, minorities and other marginalized populations, so as to help hold governments to account.

The International Day of Democracy provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world. Democracy is as much a process as a goal, and only with the full participation of and support by the international community, national governing bodies, civil society and individuals, can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality to be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere.

The values of freedom, respect for human rights and the principle of holding periodic and genuine elections by universal suffrage are essential elements of democracy.  In turn, democracy provides the natural environment for the protection and effective realization of human rights. These values are embodied in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and further developed in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which enshrines a host of political rights and civil liberties underpinning meaningful democracies.

The link between democracy and human rights is captured in article 21(3) of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states:

“The will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government; this will shall be expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall be by universal and equal suffrage and shall be held by secret vote or by equivalent free voting procedures.”

The rights enshrined in the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and subsequent human rights instruments covering group rights (e.g.indigenous peoples, minorities, people with disabilities) are equally essential for democracy as they ensure an equitable distribution of wealth, and equality and equity in respect of access to civil and political rights.

A review of the state of democracy in Nigeria leaves much to be worried about. Almost all the democratic gains of the Goodluck Jonathan years have been reversed. Freedom of speech is under clear and present danger! All sorts of desperate and underhanded measures are being deployed to predetermine election results contrary to the will of the people, including pre-emptive incineration of Card Readers. 

But power belongs to the people and the more the people can be mobilized to express their will at the polls, the less likely that a privileged few will be able to succeed in deciding for them. 

Contrary to the situation at the center, Oyo State is enjoying a new lease of democratic dispensation. Gov Seyi Makinde who was brought into office by posting over a 150,000 votes difference between him and the first runners-up is repaying the trust of the people by declaring that the will of the people will be respected in the coming local government elections. For starters, free and fair internal democracy is on the cards. This is where true democracy starts.

At the national level, Hon Ajibola Muraina continues to contribute his quota to the continued entrenchment of internal democracy in the People's Democracy Party as he served on  screening and electoral committees in Bayelsa State and Niger State respectively.

Olubunmi Sodipo, 

Special Adviser on Media to Hon Ajibola Muraina,

Member Representing Ibarapa Central/ Ibarapa North Federal Constituency

Makinde Not Spending Oyo's Money On Party Politics - CPS | Southwest-frontier News

MAKINDE NOT SPENDING OYO'S MONEY ON PARTY POLITICS - CPS

...Says Gov Running Oyo With Ingenuity, State’s Anti-corruption Agency To Launch Soon

September 12, 2020

The Chief Press Secretary to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Mr Taiwo Adisa, said on Saturday that the governor is running the state with ingenuity, while also delivering incisive governance in the state.

He maintained that contrary to insinuations that the governor has been spending Oyo State's money on politics in other states, Governor Makinde has been spending the state's resources to benefit the people of the state, which is why a lot of efforts have been going into turning around the infrastructure of the state across, health, education and other sectors.

The Media aide, who spoke on Political Circuit, a programme of the Ibadan-based Fresh 105.9 FM, stated that the Makinde administration’s innovative project funding approach is bringing about an ongoing massive turnaround in the infrastructure deficit of the state, notwithstanding the global setback occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Adisa, the introduction of the Alternative Project Funding Approach (APFA) by the Makinde administration, which allows contractors to raise funds to execute critical infrastructure, while the state pays at a later period, has enabled the state to substantially bridge the worrisome infrastructural deficit it inherited in 2019.

He also revealed that works on the establishment of the Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency, which bill was passed to the House of Assembly and assented to by the governor, has now reached an advanced stage, adding that the state government had instituted a painstaking process to search for persons of “impeccable integrity” to man key positions in the agency.

He also noted that the State Executive Council has already ratified some of the things the agency will work on.

A statement by the Special Assistant (Print Media) to the governor, Moses Alao, quoted Adisa as also saying that the economic and political sagacity, with which Governor Makinde has been running the state is commendable.

According to him, criticisms coming from the opposition party in the state over volumes of loans or planned bond issuance were needless and mere distractions, adding that the state government could not fold its arms and say that because there is COVID-19 it would not plan for the future of the state.

He stated that infrastructure projects, including the ongoing 21 kilometre Ajia-Airport road, remodelling of the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, as well as the construction of the four Transport Interchanges, among others, were parts of the innovative plans of the administration to turn things around and expand the economy.

He said: “Immediately the state government, in playing to his own chosen line of openness, announced its intention of going for a N100 Billion bond, the noise came up in huge volume from the opposition party. They were saying that the government wants to plunge the state into debt when they don’t even understand the issue at stake; when they don’t even know the difference between ordinary borrowing and the bond; when they have not even interrogated the agenda that we have put up for raising the issue of the bond and when they have not also looked at the benefits that will accrue to the state. They have not interrogated anything other than to play politics and play to the gallery.

“The truth is that a lot of people are afraid when you talk about debt. But it is modern-day political management, modern-day economic management that Governor Makinde is into in Oyo State. It is incisive governance. 

"So, when we talk about the bond, we released the issues that are going to be addressed by that bond, and what I expect from the opposition is to address those issues. We talked about upgrading the Ibadan Airport and they should ask if we need that in Ibadan. We talked about fixing the corridors of the Dry Port. Do we need to keep the place for the state to be able to derive enough benefits from it when it becomes operational? Also, we talked about the train that is going to terminate at the Dry Port. We talked about the Iseyin/Ogbomoso road corridor that will also be opened up, but nobody is talking about those issues.

“When you have a business that is not running well, how do you reflate it? Is it by sleeping or going to learn from people like Dangote, who is the richest man in Africa and, at the same time, owing a lot of banks, corporations outside there, and around the world? Are you going to borrow ideas from people whose businesses are successful, or you subject yourself to a moribund idea? Will you stick to an idea that ran for eight years and brought nothing to the table? No, we are not going to be cowed by noise in the marketplace but will be objective and focused on real and incisive governance. That is why the state government highlighted what it will do with the bond. 

"The processes of getting the bond are ongoing and we have not collected any amount. Every kobo that will be borrowed is tied to infrastructural development and they are highlighted at every point in time.”

The governor's aide further said that part of the projects that will benefit from the N100 Billion, when it is eventually issued, is the Ibadan Airport, stating that the government has already facilitated some improvements including the lighting system, the runway to an extent and some other things put in place by the government.

“Recently, the Airport was not going to be accredited to start operation after COVID-19, but the state government intervened and is still intervening to make sure that the international standard we are talking about is maintained (at the airport). The Federal Government approved Akure, Ilorin Airports after COVID-19 restart but Ibadan Airport was not immediately approved. But because the state government has intervened, the Airport came back within the same week. So, we are focused on what we want to do and won’t be swayed by the noise here and there. And we are going to tell anyone making noise to look at what we are doing and stop shouting," Adisa added.

Responding to questions on why the government is remodelling the Adamasingba Stadium despite COVID-19 pandemic, which has limited attendance at stadiums, Adisa said that the Makinde administration is already looking beyond the pandemic and planning for the future.

He said: “Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, built the stadium in the 1950s. At that time, the population of Oyo State should be under 2 million and then, the people did not ask if the stadium was a priority. Some 44 years ago, Adamasingba Stadium was built and allowed to go to ruins. How do you prepare for tomorrow when you leave today in ruins? It is because we are preparing for tomorrow that we don’t want to allow COVID-19 to keep the world down longer than necessary anymore; that we want to build youth and investment capacity and all that; to make sure we have a thriving stadium that we can use to pull out the energy of our youths once again in all aspect of Sports so that they can compete nationally and internationally."

Also addressing the claim that Governor Makinde has been spending the state's resources on politics in other states, Adisa said there was no truth in the claim, noting that the governor has been spending Oyo State's resources to benefit the state and that not a kobo of Oyo State's money has been spent on politics in other states.

The governor's aide also clarified the state government's stance on the issue of Babaloja of Oyo State, noting that the governor ratified the decision made by the Olubadan of Ibadanland and urged that all other due processes should be followed.

He advised those still agitated about the matter to learn to follow processes and procedures, saying: “The issue of Iyaloja, Babaloja and market leaders has generated a lot of controversies lately but what is important is one has got to learn to follow processes and procedures because democracy itself is about processes and procedures.

“On this issue, what the people must address in their minds is the process; who is following what process? How did the past leaders emerge? Who named who and who should name who? Was it the business of the Imperial Majesty, Olubadan of Ibadanland to name the Babaloja of Oyo State or Babaloja of Ibadanland or is it supposed to be the business of other people? What are the rules and laid down procedures? Those are the things we should be asking for. Anybody can grandstand on social media, but one must go to the basics to understand what the rule says."

Signed

Moses Alao

Special Assistant (Print Media) to Governor Seyi Makinde 

Even As Opposition Party You're A Failure, Give Us Vibrancy Not Comedy — Oyo PDP Blasts APC Over Comment

Even As Opposition Party You're A Failure, Give Us Vibrancy Not Comedy — Oyo PDP Blasts APC Over Comment

September 12, 2020

The Oyo state chapter of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reacted to a comment credited to the state chapter of All  Congress (APC) over the opposition party's statement over the weekend.

The ruling party in a statement singed by its state publicity secretary, Engr Akeem Olatunji on Saturday and made available to newsmen described the opposition group which called itself All Progressives Congress Professionals (APC-P) an association of clowns with no basic knowledge of issues they attempted dabbling into.

Oyo state PDP wondered if the group was a splinter group or break away body from the known state chapter of APC adding that such act is a clear manifestation of failure and a disappointment to the people of Oyo state who had rejected the party in totality.

The ruling party expressed its disappointment in the way and manner Oyo state chapter of APC is going about performing its role as opposition, stressing that handlers of the party needed to be specially trained in the art of performing its duties outside of government.

According to the statement, the Oyo state chapter of APC's endorsement of Makinde as political material for the presidency come 2023 was commendable but a needless distraction that can not deter governor Seyi Makinde and PDP from its focus.

The statement added that governor Makinde is too busy and committed to repositioning Oyo state from the shambles it inherited it from the last administration under APC.

The statement empathised with the state chapter of APC for having to cope with the pain of playing opposition in the state while ruling at the federal level on a controversial mandate.

The ruling party in the statement explained that it was really unfortunate that APC in Oyo state was a 'successfully failed' political party in government and as opposition party stressing that instead of rebuilding its battered party, it continued to deplete and degenerate into various splinter groups.

Speaking further, the ruling party according to the statement, described the allegation of having nothing to show after over a year in office as very amusing and laughable urging the  APC–P to take a day tour of the town and see the improved quality of life in the state.

The statement reads in part: "Oyo state chapter of APC has further shown the world that its failure is not limited to when it was I'm government but also when it was rejected and relegated into the background with the sole responsibility of playing one of the opposition parties in the state.

" We are particularly disturbed because as a political party and the largest in Africa, we understand the concept of democracy and the role of opposition but our deepest disappointment is borne out of the fact that Oyo APC has reduced itself to mere association of clowns with the way and manner it is daily conducting itself.

"As a corporate man, governor Makinde is an exceptional achiever that's completely not in the realm or contemporary of anyone currently in Oyo state APC, and as a governor, Makinde's one year has recorded more success in term of improved quality of life than APC's entire 8yrs put together.

"We expect vibrancy from Oyo APC so that we as the ruling party can continue to do better in our resolve and commitment to the state but instead, the opposition party is daily giving us comedy and absolutely unserious disposition to its role outside government."

The ruling party, Oyo state PDP, however cautioned Oyo APC and all its splinter groups desperate for media popularity against making frivolous and unfounded allegations against Governor Makinde led government just to be in the news stressing that the era of false propaganda was long gone and the people of the state already know APC for what it is.

The statement however, reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of governor Seyi Makinde to the welfare, development and growth of Oyo state, assuring that Oyo state will never again return to the slave and slave master era of APC in the state.