Akeredolu accuses police of collecting bribes at Ondo boundaries


The Ondo State Governor, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu , has lamented the influx of people from other states despite the ban on inter – state movement .
Speaking through his Special Adviser on Special Duties , Dr Doyin Odebowale , who visited the state boundaries on Sunday , alleged that the police were frustrating the effort of the government at containing the spread of the deadly disease by allowing people to enter the state after paying a bribe to the police .

Addressing the policemen , Odebowale said, “ You people are supposed to turn back any unauthorised vehicles but you allow them to pass through. You are corrupt . You are not doing your work . ”
However , the head of the police team , Mr Ebisine Amy , denied the allegation , saying the policemen at the boundary were doing the work professionally.

“ We don ’t collect money from anybody and no vehicle has passed through this place . My men are doing their work accordingly,” he said .
The Chairman of the Inter – ministerial Committee on COVID – 19 who is also the state Commissioner for Health , Dr Wahab Adegbenro , said the state was doing everything within its power to stop the spread of the pandemic .


Source:https://citadelng.com.ng/2020/04/13/akeredolu-accuses-police-of-collecting-bribes-at-ondo-boundaries/

COVID-19: AKEREDOLU FLAGS - OFF DISTRIBUTION OF PALLIATIVE PACKAGE

...SAYS DISTRIBUTION FOR EVERYONE , NOT PARTY MEMBERS

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has flagged-off the distribution of the state's palliative materials, as part of the efforts to cushion the effect of the CoronaVirus pandemic in the state.

Governor Akeredolu said the pallaitives are meant for everybody and not any party members, warning the committee members not to segregate while distributing the items.

According to the Governor, the idea of palliative became very neccessary since the Government has directed the people to stay at home as part of the precautionary measures to stem the spread of the Covid-19.

The Governor who spoke at the Government house, Alagbaka Akure on Saturday, April 11, 2020, said since the state has recorded its second index case, it has become more important to enforce all the directives the government had announced, adding that violators will be prosecuted from now on.

While explaining that the flag-off is only symbolic, Governor Akeredolu said the main distribution of the items will be at the local government level where the Commissioners and the Special Advisers, alongside the members of the state House of Assembly from the local government will jointly see to the distribution at the various local government levels.

He said the movement of the items to the local government areas are already set, saying that was the reason the state chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Jacob Idajo was put in the committee for easy transportation of the items.

Arakunrin Akeredolu thanked the UBA, WEMA Bank, First Bank, First Oil Limited, PMG and others for their donations towards the palliative.

Olabode Richard Olatunde
Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media)
April 11, 2020.

� Nguher Gabrielle Zaki

Press Statement

COVID-19: Ondo Cancels Easter Services

The State Government notes with deep concern the second index case. This development has once again, reinforced the need to deepen our collective efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Ondo State COVID-19 Response Team has reported that the second index case having travelled from Lagos to Ondo State must give the Government greater concern to avoid community transmission.

Against the backdrop of the above, the Ondo State Government has directed the cancellation of the special concession granted Churches across the State to celebrate the Easter Sunday/Service. This decision was taken after due consultations with the leadership of the Christain Association of Nigeria(CAN).

All measures and steps taken in respect of COVID-19 still remain in force. In particular, Government has taken further steps to effectively man the boundaries in the light of reported cases of compromise and breach of the directive to close all inter-state entry points into Ondo State.

Donald Ojogo 
Commissioner for Information and Orientation 
April 11, 2020

AKURE EXPLOSION: GOV AKEREDOLU INSPECTS ONGOING CONSTRUCTION WORK OF DAMAGED AKURE-OWO ROAD

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, on Tuesday visited the site of last month's explosion along Akure-Owo road to inspect the ongoing repair of the road which was cut off by the impact of the explosion.

It will be recalled that the explosion was caused when a truck conveying explosives to a quarry company in Auchi, Edo State, exploded at the Ilu-Abo area in Akure North Local Government area of the state.

Governor Akeredolu, who visited the scene of the explosion in company with his Chief of Staff, Chief Gbenga Ale, Commissioner for Works, Hon. Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye and the Special Adviser on Lands, Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Raimi Aminu, to inspect the ongoing construction the road, said the road is a major highway that connects both the southern and central senatorial districts with the northern senatorial district of the state.

He said his administration considered it imperative to swfitly repair the road in order to ease the movement of commuters plying the route to access the Northern, Eastern and Southern parts of the country from Akure and beyond.

While noting that the repair of the road is being undertaken by the Direct Labor agency of the state ministry of works, Governor Akeredolu said he has always been impressed by the competence and efficiency of the officials of the ministry.

Earlier, the Special Adviser explained that the reconstruction of the bad portion of the road was being done in line with the specification of the Federal Ministry of Works.

While assuring that the Federal Government would reimburse the state for fixing the road, the Special Adviser said the job would be completed within the next few weeks.

Olabode Richard Olatunde
Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media)
April 7, 2020.

:camera_with_flash:Nguher Gabrielle Zaki

COVID-19: ONDO GOVT BEGINS FUMIGATION OF MARKETS, MOTOR PARKS

The Ondo State Government, on Wednesday began the fumigation and desilting of all markets, motor parks and other strategic places across the state, as part of the efforts to contain the spread of Coronavirus pandemic.

Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, had on Tuesday ordered the immediate fumigation of all the markets, motor parks and other strategic places across the state.

This is part of the proactive measures to checkmate the spread of the deadly Coronavirus into the state.

The fumigation and desilting is being carried out by the Committee on Sanitation and Traffic Rules, led by the Commissioner for Water Resources, Public Sanitation and Hygiene, Mrs Yetunde Adeyanju.

Materials deployed for the exercise include motorised spraying machines, chlorine, drums of ethanol, tankers and Hilux vehicles.

Adeyanju explained that the company handling the fumigation, ZL Global Alliance, has demonstrated competence and is doing a good job for the safety of the people of the state.

The Commissioner added that the fumigation exercise, which commenced from the popular motorpark on Ondo road and Adedeji markets (Oja Oba) along Oba Adesida road in the state capital, would continue at Ikare, Ondo, Ore, Igbokoda, Igbara-Oke, Owo and other parts of the state.


Other members of the committee present at the exercise are the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transport, Tobi Ogunleye, and the Group Managing Director of ZL Global Alliance, Dr Abiola Bashorun.

During the exercise, all gutters around the markets were also being desilted to further ensure that all the places are made clean and safe for human habitation.

It will be recalled that the markets had earlier been closed indefinitely as part of measures put in place by the state government to prevent the spread of the COVID-19.

:camera_with_flash: Nguher Gabrielle Zaki

Source:https://citadelng.com.ng/2020/04/01/covid-19-ondo-govt-begins-fumigation-of-markets-motor-parks/

COVID-19: UBA DONATES N28M TO ODSG

As part of its contributions to the fight against the coronavirus (COVID-19) global pandemic, the United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), through the UBA Foundation, has donated the sum of N28,500,000 Million to the Ondo State Government.

Presenting the cheque to the Governor at the Governor’s office on Monday, the Regional Head of the bank, Mr. Olurotimi Obagaye, said it is hoped that the donation will go a long way in helping the State in the fight against covid-19, while praying to the almighty God to have mercy on the world.

Responding, Governor Akeredolu thanked the UBA Foundation and Tony Elemelu for the generous donation.

The Governor said the UBA has done well for the country and Africa at large with the large sum of money donated, which is being shared among states.

Olabode Richard Olatunde
Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media)
March 30, 2020.

� Blessed Michael

PRESS RELEASE- Ondo State Launches Covid-19 Website

Dear Sons and Daughters of Sunshine State! Even as we join resources together with our brothers and sisters across the world in the fight against a common enemy Corona virus, which has poised a serious threat to the sustenance of humanity, it's become highly imperative that we stand as one and united in the fight against COVID-19.

The Akeredolu led administration is committed to ensuring the growth and rapid development of Ondo State. The Government is committed to ensuring the sustenance of good health of the people of Ondo State.

In this light, I enjoin the good people of Ondo State to remain calm, removing every iota of fear. We should all embrace healthy lifestyles and follow the simple preventive measures which are: Ensuring that we wash our hands regularly
Ensuring that we keep Social distance ( 3 meters apart from each other) rules regularly.

We appreciate your understanding and support. We have no doubt that by working together, we can get through this challenging time. We will continue to evaluate the situation with COVID-19 as it further evolves within the state.

The State Government has made available the following Toll Free Numbers 0800-268-4319, 0700-1-268-4319, 0700-268-4319 for information regarding the virus.
Report suspected cases and engagements.

State Government has approved a website where the necessary information regarding the virus and how it can be curbed.
Below are links to resources for information related to COVID-19
http://ondostate.gov.ng/covid19/

Stay at home and stay safe
God bless Ondo State

Lulu Fawehinmi
SSA Strategic communications
Ondo State

N’Assembly meets Ahmed, Sylva, Emefiele over failing economy

The leadership of the National Assembly on Wednesday met with the Federal Government on measures to cushion the effect of the raging coronavirus and crashing crude oil prices on the Nigerian economy .
At the meeting were President of the Senate , Ahmad Lawan ; Speaker of the House of Representatives , Femi Gbajabiamila ; Minister of Finance , Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed ; Minister of State for Petroleum Resources , Timipre Sylva ; the Central Bank of Nigeria Governor , Godwin Emefiele ; and other heads of ministries , departments and agencies .
There, Gbajabiamila stated that the Federal Government must think creatively and come up with ways of stabilising the economy due to the negative economic impact of COVID -19 .
The Speaker recalled how the House earlier on Tuesday passed the Emergency Economic Stimulus Bill 2020 to complement economic interventions by the executive arm of government .
He said , “ You are all aware that the House of Reps , and hopefully it will be the National Assembly , passed the Emergency Economic Stimulus Bill 2020 , which in our opinion goes further to complement what the executive is doing , in terms of addressing the needs of the common man .
“ The tax rebate , the mortgage moratorium for three months and the reduction in duties on medical supplies that have to do with coronavirus, I ’ m sure Senate may reconvene at some point to pass this. Even though it is not law yet , it has come to the Senate , since some members of the executive arm are here to have this signed quickly into law. ”
While welcoming stakeholders at the meeting to consider government interventions to cushion the negative economic impact of COVID- 19 on the country’ s economy, Lawan said the meeting was necessary due to the difficult circumstances facing the country.
He said both chambers had adjourned on Tuesday but agreed to reconvene at any time if there was an urgent need for that.
Lawan said the meeting was to deliberate on the proposed review of the 2020 budget in the wake of COVID- 19 pandemic .
In her remarks , Ahmed applauded the House for initiating and passing the Emergency Economic Stimulus Bill 2020 .

Source:https://citadelng.com.ng/2020/03/26/nassembly-meets-ahmed-sylva-emefiele-over-failing-economy/

'NDDC will sustain foreign scholarships’

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has promised not to abandon beneficiaries of its foreign scholarship scheme in the United Kingdom (UK) and Canada.
Managing Director Prof. Kemebradikumo Pondei spoke at the commission’s head office in Port Harcourt yesterday. He promised that the commission would meet its obligations to beneficiaries.
Pondei insisted the commission is committed to keeping to the terms of the scholarship, saying ‘we cannot send people out of the country and not pay their fees. We are doing everything possible to ensure beneficiaries of the post graduate scholarship progamme are paid. We have had meetings in the last two days to see how their problems can be alleviated.
“It is a very difficult situation and I have been there before so I know what it means to be hounded for fees, especially when you do not have living allowance to feed properly and pay your rents.”

Source:https://citadelng.com.ng/2020/03/26/nddc-will-sustain-foreign-scholarships/

Suspected ondo Corona Virus Patient Tests Negative – Gov. Akeredolu

The Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Wahab Adegbenro on Saturday disclosed that the result of the suspected case for Corona virus in the state came out negative.

The Commissioner who said the state is still maintaining a corona virus free status explained that the result of the blood sample of the suspect that was sent for Corona virus screening came out negative on Friday.

Adegbenro said there is then no cause for panic but that it is not yet uhuru as all hands must be on deck to forestall it's outbreak in the state.

He appealed to stakeholders to maintain personal and environmental hygiene , wash hands regularly with soap and water, use hand Sanitizers,avoid being in an environment where there are more than ten people, avoid unnecessary traveling especially interstate,to prevent the outbreak in the state.

Earlier, as a preventative measure, the State Government has met with religious leaders in the State, to rub minds on how to prevent gathering for religious purposes as a strategy to forestall the outbreak of the deadly virus and stem the tide if there is outbreak eventually.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Wahab Adegbenro said preventative measures which he described as the antidote to the outbreak and spread of the corona virus , is of utmost necessity as even nations that are referred to as world giants have shut down their countries both economically and socially because of the corona virus which is threatening to wipe out the entire human race.

Dr Adegbenro said social distancing is now compulsory, so, heads of religious organizations should discourage gathering of more than ten people, handshake, holding hands to pray, using the same Holy Communion Cup amongst others.

He called on the federal government to rise up to the challenge of preventing and stemming the tide as the financial burden is beyond the state.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr Jibayo Adeyeye said it is not the will of government to inconvenience people by restricting movement and gathering ,
but that it is a drastic measure that must be taken in the overall interest of all.

He promised that the State Government will not rest on its oars to protect residents by preventing the outbreak in the state.

Some religious leaders who spoke include : Pst Umar Idris, Bishop Olufemi Bankole, Rev. Stephen Fagbemi, Rt.Rev. Akomolafe, Rev. Nelson Fadoju amongst others and they all pledged their support for the government while tasking the government to be up and doing to protect the citizenry.

They charged the government to step up sensitisation on the need to play the game according to the rules.

Breaking: Akeredolu orders closure of schools over Coronavirus
March 19, 2020 No Comments
Ondo state government has directed the closure of all primary and secondary schools as well tertiary institutions in the state as from Friday 20th, March, 2020 indefinitely because of Recruitment COVID-19


This measure is to harvest children into the safety net for proper monitoring and care.


Governor Rotimi Akeredolu gave the directive in a statewide broadcast.


He called on all residents of the state to obey and observe the simple, time tested and internationally accepted precautionary measures to fight this debilitating virus.

He said, “There is no doubt that this global pandemic poses a real challenge to all nations, yet if we all collaborate effectively, we will overcome it successfully.


“One major advantage that our state has is the experience and expertise we have developed over the years from our fight against Lassa fever and other infections.
“

” We believe this will place us in good stead at this critical period. It is therefore important for members of the public to remain calm, avoid panic and spreading of inaccurate information.


“We urge us all to fully embrace the hand washing exercise at every interval of our daily activities. We must avoid hand shaking and unnecessary social embrace.


” We must reduce or where possible, postpone, until further notice, ceremonies and other social gatherings.


“We urge us to avoid staying in overcrowded areas and avoid any unnecessary travels outside the state.


” It is important we engage in improved self and family hygiene as well as mobilise our community service providers including traders, drivers, butchers, bank workers, health workers to make use of face mask to cover the mouth and the nose when engaging in their daily activities”


To further strengthen capacity to respond effectively to this emergency, the state government also set up a high level inter-ministerial committee to coordinate state’s response to the COVID-19 challenge.


The committee which is chaired by the hon commissioner for health, has members cutting across relevant institutions and MDAS.The main term of reference of this committee is to activate, coordinate and drive the state response protocols.

Deadlock, as Appeal Court refuses to hear Oshiomhole’s Case

The scheduled hearing in the appeal by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Adams Oshiomhole was today put off by the Court of Appeal, Abuja.

This has created another stalemate in the party as warring factions have to wait for the appellate court’s decision in a yet to be decided date.

The court had, last week sent notices of hearing to parties in the appeal. But, when parties got to court today, a panel of three Justices led by Justice Stephen Adah sat to hear other cases.

The panel later rose, with a promise that another panel will be reconstituted to hear Oshiomole’s appeal.

Parties were however, taken aback when, rather than having a new panel, a female official of the court announced to a packed courtroom that the court has elected to hear Oshiomole’s appeal on a later date to be communicated to parties later.

Oshiomhole and his supporters, who have been in court since a little over 8 am, are currently meeting with their team of lawyers on what next steps to take.

As he exited the courtroom, with his supporters behind, Oshiomhole told journalists that he would await the court’s decision in the case.

Oshiomhole’s appeal is against an earlier judgment of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) which among others, restrained him acting as the National Chairman of the APC.

Source:
Deadlock, as Appeal Court refuses to hear Oshiomhole’s…
https://citadelng.com.ng/2020/03/16/deadlock-as-appeal-court-refuses-to-hear-oshiomholes-case/

RANKING NIGERIAN GOVERNORS: GOVERNOR AKEREDOLU MAKES TOP 5

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu SAN, makes the elite cadre for the first time in February 2020 for his legacy projects in the state.

We note the commissioning of the Ore Interchange, a project that will no doubt ease traffic and make driving safe on the Ore corridor. The commissioning is coming after the first term governor had made impressive impact on road infrastructure in the state.

Another legacy project was the commissioning last week of the Ondo-Linyi Industrial Hub. The industrial hub has an Automobile Assembly Plant, Paper Mill Factory, Textile Company, largest Cassava to Ethanol Factory in Nigeria, as well as the country’s first MDF Factory that produces high-density fibre and marine boards.

We acknowledge that Governor Akeredolu is laying a good foundation for industrial growth, with the accompanying opportunity to diversify the revenue base of the state. Prospects that the industrial hub would assist manage the unemployment challenge is also clearly discernible.

COVID-19: Akeredolu stresses readiness for eventuality, inspects facility

Ondo State Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has said the state government is ready for any case of Coronavirus, even as he prayed against the virus in the state.

The governor gave the assurance while inspecting a purpose-built Infectious Diseases centre in Akure, the state capital.

The facility was built by the previous administration as a testing and isolation centre for infectious diseases, and was upgraded with equipments by the present administration for diseases such as Lassa fever, Ebola virus and others.

Akeredolu also inspected a new laboratory built by his administration for the purpose of testing people.

During the inspection, the governor, however, prayed that the Coronavirus would not enter the state.

“The essence of taking you round this facility is to let our people in the state know that we are ready for any eventuality that has to do with Coronavirus. We have upgraded this facility to standard. And everybody can be rest assured that we are ready.

“Although, a number of other things still needed to be done. But I want to assure you that everything would be taken care of,” the governor stressed.

Akeredolu particularly urged the people to minimize contact for now, advising that they should always wash their hands, and use sanitizers regularly.

Coronavirus which originated from the Wuhan province in China, was first detected on December 31, 2019, and has claimed over 3,080 lives so far.

“Although we met this building here, we had to build this laboratory for us to be able to test people. It is a purpose built Laboratory. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has helped us in putting some things together here.

“I have said our commissioner and a few of our people are going to Lagos to learn about protocol and management. Not that they don’t know, but we just need to do that so that they can learn new things.

“When we get to Lagos, we are going to talk to international donor agencies to help us with some other things we need here.

“My friend in Lagos has made me understand that the Canadian Government assisted in equipping their own facility,” he said.

Earlier, Dr Wahab Adegbenro, said the state health workers have been well trained to handle that might break out various infectious diseases in the state.

He said that the laboratory and the upgraded facility in the centre showed the preparedness of the state government.

“The state government has put in place all necessary measures to guard against the disease, and in any eventuality, to diagnose and do the needful,” the Commissioner added

Source: https://citadelng.com.ng/2020/03/04/covid-19-akeredolu-stresses-readiness-for-eventuality-inspects-facility/

maynation:
Forget political affiliation, you can't be from Ondo state and not support this guy.
Aketi is working.

4+4 is sure for him

ONDO 2020: AKEREDOLU ACCEPTS CALLS TO CONTEST FOR ANOTHER TERM

Ahead of the October 10 Gubernatorial elections in Ondo State, the state Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has said he has accepted the calls of the people from various quarters and backgrounds that he should contest for another term in office.

Governor Akeredolu said he was particularly moved by the magnitude of 4+4 signs that numerous people of the state have been disp
laying.

Governor Akeredolu spoke at a dinner organized as part of the activities marking his 3rd anniversary celebration, held at the International Culture and Event Center (DOME) in Akure , the Ondo state capital.

The Governor, who was full of appreciation to the people of the state at large, specifically thanked members of the state executive council, traditional rulers, religious bodies, party members and supporters, family members, civil servants and labor leaders, friends and well wishers and others for their support over the last three years.

He promised that his administration will continue to deliver on its electoral promises and entrench the dividends of good governance for the improvement of the standard of living of the people of the state.

TAKE PRECAUTION ON CORONAVIRUS – AKEREDOLU URGES ONDO RESIDENTS

The Ondo state governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has asked residents of the state not to panic and take precautionary measures following the outbreak of one index case of Coronavirus in Lagos.
The governor urged the people to step up their personal hygiene as efforts are equally ongoing to learn from Lagos State government on proper management of the outbreak.

He spoke yesterday at the event tagged an evening with Mr Governor as part of activities lined up to mark his third anniversary in office on Ondo State Radio Vision Corporation OSRC , ORANGEFM 94. 5 FM ,Sunshine 96.5 FM Alalaye.
“It’s a big challenge to us. We must be very watchful. The Lagos state government is the only center that’s prepared and ready. We are looking at what we can do. By tomorrow, I will talk to my brother Governor in Lagos State, we are sending our Commissioners for health across the Southwest states to go to Lagos to learn the protocol and management. We have to take precautions.” – Gov Akeredolu
Responding to various questions being asked , the governor said there is need to strengthen education at the primary level with over 2,000 teachers after massive construction and renovations of the schools across the state.

As for the increment in tuition fees in tertiary institutions, the governor said “We increased the tuition out of necessity. If we have money, there is no need for us to charge a kobo. My challenge is this, bring a tuition fee in any state owned University in the Southwest that’s lower than what we are charging, and we will reduce your tuition.

“We are managing three Universities and one Polytechnic. The Polytechnic workers were owed by the last administration. But, we will look at this when we have money. These things will be dynamic. Not that we can’t reduce it but that’s if our financial status is improved.

“Today, we charge the least to train doctors at the University of Medical sciences. We charge the least across the country.”
On road construction and Rehabilitation , governor Akeredolu said over 250 kilometers have been flagged off and completed within three years of his administration while new ones are being flagged off across the three senatorial districts“Fayemi and I have approached the bank to take loan to construct the Akure – Ikere road. If the Federal government won’t do it, we will do it. We are doing a lot of Federal government roads.

“Look at the Owo to Ikare road, we are still doing it. Look at Ipele junction, we have spent millions of naira there. The road from Akure to Ikere, we are ready to take loan to do it but the federal government said they will do it . We will keep pressurizing them. But if they don’t do it, we will do it” – Gov Akeredolu

On Industrialization drive of his administration , he said the present administration is leaving no stone unturned to ensure Ondo state remains the best destination for investors in Nigeria .
He said his administration had started with Ore industrial park which would at the end give direct and indirect employment opportunities to 20,000 people.

“Oluwa glass was already dead when we came on board. But we have already gotten those who will start glass industry soon. But they want somewhere they can have regular power supply. A place like Ore. They are starting very soon”
Artisans are very important to us. Whatever job we have here we don’t take it else where. It’s for you. We have also told our contractors that whatever jobs that are available, must be given to our artisans. It’s a directive and our commissioners are following it through”

ONDO 2020: GOV AKEREDOLU ACCEPTS CALLS TO CONTEST FOR ANOTHER TERM

Ahead of the October 10 Gubernatorial elections in Ondo State, the state Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has said he has accepted the calls of the people from various quarters and backgrounds that he should contest for another term in office.

Governor Akeredolu said he was particularly moved by the magnitude of 4+4 signs that numerous people of the state have been displaying.

Governor Akeredolu spoke at a dinner organized as part of the activities marking his 3rd anniversary celebration, held at the International Culture and Event Center (DOME) on Saturday.

The Governor, who was full of appreciation to the people of the state at large, specifically thanked members of the state executive council, traditional rulers, religious bodies, party members and supporters, family members, civil servants and labor leaders, friends and well wishers and others for their support over the last three years.

He promised that his administration will continue to deliver on its electoral promises and entrench the dividends of good governance for the improvement of the standard of living of the people of the state.

Olabode Richard Olatunde
Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media)
March 1, 2020

:camera_with_flash: Blessed Michael

#3YEARSINOFFICE

As part of the activities lined up for the celebration of the 3rd anniversary of his administration, Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, on Friday attended the Redemption Concert held at the MKO Abiola Democracy Park, Akure.

The Redemption Concert was put together to celebrate the people of the state and the three eventful and purpose driven years of Akeredolu’s administration.

The concert featured popular artistes like 9ice, Zlanta Ibile, Small Doctor, Mayorkun, Mr. P, Seyi law and others.

Governor Akeredolu led some members of the state executive council to the event.

The Governor thrilled the audience when he sang and danced to the song of Fela Anikulapo Kuti titled “Water no get enemy”.

The event recorded massive turnout of the people of the state.

� Nguher Gabrielle Zaki

#3YEARSINOFFICE: GOV AKEREDOLU DESERVES ANOTHER TERM- FALANA

A human right lawyer, Mr Femi Falana,SAN, on Thursday said that the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, deserves another term of four years owning to his numerous achievements within the space of three years in office.

Falana who said he had earlier warned the Governor that he would criticize him if he failed to deliver on his electoral promises, expressed satisfaction over the performance of the Governor in the last three years.

The human right lawyer was the guest speaker at the 3rd anniversary lecture and book presentation of the Akeredolu's administration in the state.

The lecture and book presentation are parts of the activities lined up for the celebration of the 3rd anniversary of the Akeredolu's administration.

Falana who delivered an anniversary lecture titled ”the Nigerian Federalism Imbroglio: A Pragmatic Approach” said he was happy that Governor Akeredolu has addressed every issues he raised in the message he sent to the him on his Inauguration day as the Governor of the state.

He said “I'm happy today, as generally agreed by the people of Ondo State that Governor Akeredolu has delivered positively. By the time he took over as the Governor of Ondo State, workers were owed, pensions have been forgotten. Today, workers are paid as and when due on a monthly basis

“When Governor Akeredolu came on board, Ondo State was indebted to the tune of N4billion. Hence, the state could not access fund for UBEC. When the Governor came on board, that was one of the things I reminded him about. I'm happy today that he has cleared everything.”

“When Governor Akeredolu came on board, Ondo State was indebted to the tune of N4billion. Hence, the state could not access fund for UBEC. When the Governor came on board, that was one of the things I reminded him about. I'm happy today that he has cleared everything,” Falana said.

While explaining why Governor Akeredolu should be re-elected , Falana said the Governor has delivered in the areas of physical development, payment of accumulated salary and pension arrears among others.

The lecture was chaired by Governor Abubakar Bagudu of Kebbi State.

#3YEARSINOFFICE: INNOVATIVE AND SUPPORTIVE INITIATIVES FROM THE FIRST LADY'S STABLE.

1. Accelerated Birth Registration Plus (ABR+)

Children whose birth are not registered with National Population Commission are automatically without a nationality and therefore at risk of being a victim of child labour and abuse; having limited access to education and other social amenities.

Prior to the Akeredolu led administration, Ondo State birth registration coverage and performance was among the poorest in the south-west. For almost a decade (2011 – 2018), Ondo was never among the top 3 states with the best under-1 birth registration performance in the South-West. In fact in the south-west, Ondo state had the worst under-1 birth registration performance in 2011. This negative narrative started to change when the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, began to invest in birth registration. The investment started in 2018 with the implementation of the Accellerated Birth Registrion (ABR) pilot project in Ifedore LGA. The result from that pilot showed that there was a 280% increase in birth registration in the first month of programme implementation and a 535% in the second month.

The success recorded in the ABR pilot project was then replicated in 2019 as data from UNICEF show that Ondo state became the state with the best under-1 birth registration performance in South-West. It is worthy of note that between 2018 and 2019 there was a 150 percent increase in under-1 birth registration performance in Ondo State. This is the highest percentage increase in South-west and 2nd highest in Nigeria after Bayelsa State. Up to 2018, the birth registration of children under the age of 5 in Ondo State has never been up to 100,000 in a year. In 2019 however, as a result of the State Government continuous investment in birth registration through the ABR Plus project, the birth registration of under 5 children was recorded to be 206,973 in 2019. This is over a 100% increase compared to the 70,120, 72,854, 91,402, 72,047, and 77,198 that were achieved in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018 respectively.

Citadelng News

ORE FLY-OVER BRIDGE: OPENING UP THE STATE FOR MORE ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES

By TCC NEWS

While the news filtered through the streets of Ondo state and environs with amazing pictures of the Ore Flyover bridge finding its way across the social-media space, many sons and daughters of the state found more than enough reasons to thank the Ondo State government for staying true to its promise of seeing to the completion of the project.

This project has given the people of Ondo state another infrastructural masterpiece which is not just noted for its aesthetic value but also socio-economic importance as well as providing a safe haven for motorist and commuters plying that road. Over the last 3 decades, the deplorable state of the road had led to the death of many, while it has also affected the economic growth of the area. However the decision of the Akeredolu led administration to erect a flyover in the area has proven to change the narrative as the area beam with a new look, one that is bound to usher in growth and development to Ore and its environs in diverse areas.

However it’s more worthy to note and celebrate the vision and commitment of the Arakunrin Akeredolu led administration to ensuring that they put the interest of the people at heart in the state. It will be recalled that the Ore flyover bridge was a federal government road, however as a result of the total commitment of the Arakunrin Akeredolu led administration, it intervened and took over the project as a reduced cost compared to what the Federal government had earlier budgeted for the project. Initially the federal government had budgeted a sum of 8 Billion naira for the project, however the Akeredolu led administration saw to the completion of the project at the estimated cost of 5 Billion naira.

Adding to this, the state government also ensured that the people whose houses and properties were affected as a result of the construction of the flyover were compensated. About 120 people whose land and properties paved way for the road project were presented cheques as compensation from the state Government.
Accolades must be given to the state government as it has shown over time its readiness to change the outlook of the state from a civil servant state to an economic hub by opening up its areas for more economic activities.

Source:https://citadelng.com.ng/2020/02/23/ore-fly-over-bridge-opening-up-the-state-for-more-economic-activities/

Akeredolu begins 3rd anniversary, to commission projects

Activities marking the third anniversary celebration of governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu led administration begin today with press briefing by the Chairman and members Anniversary Planning Committee at the
NUJ Press Centre.

During the two-week long activities, various landmark projects including the legacy Ore interchange executed by Governor Akeredolu would be commissioned.

President Muhammadu Buhari would commission the interchange on Tuesday.

According to the programme of events, the third anniversary will start on Friday, February 21 and be rounded off on Friday, March 6.

During the period, several key projects across the three senatorial districts of the state would be commissioned while several others would also be flagged off for the benefit of the people of the state.

The three years administration of governor Akeredolu have been full of many outstanding achievements in the areas of road infrastructure, industrialization, health, education, youth empowerment, women empowerment, agriculture and several others which have served as catalyst for socioeconomic development of the state.

Source:https://citadelng.com.ng/2020/02/21/akeredolu-begins-3rd-anniversary-to-commission-projects/

WE ARE PUTTING IN PLACE FIRST ENTREPRENEURSHIP VILLAGE IN AFRICA – AKEREDOLU

In line with the commitment to achieve his administration’s cardinal point of Job creation through entrepreneurship, Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Thursday performed the ground breaking ceremony of the World’s first Africa’s Young Entrepreneurs (AYE) Village.
 
The entrepreneurship village, situated adjacent the International Event and Culture Center (DOME), will be built by the AYE, with the provision of land by the state government as a means of support and partnership.
 
The Africa’s Young Entrepreneurs is a platform with a vision to successfully develop Africa’s budding entrepreneurs through mutual networking with established captains of industries.
 
The A.Y.E brings learning, resources and business acumen, with the aim of developing young entrepreneurs within the ages of 18 – 45, with 12.6 million members in 20 African Countries.
 
Governor Akeredolu, who performed the ground breaking ceremony, said the village, when completed, will address the challenges of skilled labour shortage posing serious problems in the country.
 
Arakunrin Akeredolu believed that, with the existence of the village, it will prepare the people, particularly the youths for the Deep Sea Port which his administration is vigorously pursuing.
 
The Governor explained that the establishment of an Entrepreneurship village in the state capital will change the narrative of the state from a civil service state into one where entrepreneurs who will turn out to be employers of labour will abound.
 
AYE, led by the President, Summy Francis, thanked the Governor for providing the support needed to achieve the dream of the organization to build the world first entrepreneurship center.
 
Francis explained that his choice of the state was because of the peace and the stability in the state.

200 Benefit From Mrs Akeredolu’s Free Medical Outreach In Emeabiam

No fewer than 200 residents of Emeabiam and other neighbouring communities like Umuokpo, Okpala and Olokwu within Owerri West, Imo State benefited from the free medical services put together by the First Lady of Ondo State, Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu- Akeredolu through the Sharing Hope Foundation at Emeabiam.

The medical outreach which is a response to the palpable suffering and lack of access to basic health care amongst the less privileged people in Emebiam and neighboring communities featured an array of medical checkups which include blood pressure, malaria test, medical consultations as well as distribution of drugs.

Speaking on the essence of the programme, the Leader of the Sharing Hope Foundation, Dr. Emeka Anyanwu said the medical outreach will among other things identify health issues and proffer medical solutions as well as teach the people basic skills on how to stop bleeding and conduct CPR for chest compression as heart attack has remained a major cause of death.

Dr. Anyanwu who said his Foundation is ready to undertake surgeries where necessary once the proposed community clinic takes off by next year, urged the people to replicate the training by also teaching others what they have learnt.
One of the volunteer Doctors, Dr. Emmanuel Onyema in his remarks said the medical intervention is timely as the people are being treated for all complaints ranging from typhoid fever, malaria fever and are given injections.

Dr. Onyema who applauded Mrs. Akeredolu for deeming it fit to organize the medical mission said their medical intervention in the last two days have revived near death situations of some patients who had interfaced with the medical team. “We had to attend to one epileptic patient who had seizure while here and that was timely”, he added.

On the range of drugs being administered, Dr. Onyema said there are antibiotics, multivitamins, hypertension and diabetics drugs and that all patients are dewormed and where necessary admitted for further treatment.
In her own assessment, Christine Weinkpoff, a member of the medical mission from U.S.A. expressed delight at the successes recorded over the past few days saying so much has been achieved with so little.

“I am very happy at what I witnessed here. I am particularly happy because most of these old people cannot afford to buy the quality of drugs that is freely given to them. I thank Ada Emeabiam II for coming up with this initiative”, he said.

Another beneficiary, Mrs. Abigail Ikeri while applauding the initiative said the intervention is timely and would go a long way in ensuring a healthy society.

Mrs Akeredolu lays foundation for Ada Emeabiam Development Centre (ADEDEC)

The wife of Ondo State Governor, Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu- Akeredolu today laid the foundation for Ada Emeabiam Development Centre (ADEDEC), at Emeabiam, Owerri West, saying it is a dream come true.
Mrs. Akeredolu who made history with the gesture said she was moved by the needless deaths of pregnant women in her community.

According to her, the idea was conceptualized to address so many areas which include medical access, training and empowerment of the youths in different skill areas among others saying such access will bring development to the community.

The historic event was witnessed and supported by members of the Sharing Hope Foundation, the monarch of the community, His Royal Majesty, Eze Engr. Eunan O. Eke Okpo I of Umuokpo among other chiefs with the ultimate goal to transform Emeabiam into a peaceful and resourceful community.
Speaking on the aims of the Development Centre, Mr. Chidi Nkwocha said the centre will among others house an ICT centre and community clinic with the aim to promote healthy lifestyles, discover talents, empower the people and partner government to support implementation of development projects in the community.

Mrs. Akeredolu had earlier paid a courtesy visit to Eze Eke Okpo and members of his cabinet in the palace where she intimated them about Sharing Hope Foundation’s medical outreach in the state.
Mrs. Akeredolu who said the team was in Ondo State last year to conduct a medical outreach and had also done same in the last one week noted that the team will provide similar medical services in Emeabiam at no cost.

In his remarks, Eze Eke Okpo said the community is very elated to receive the team and that the community is happy its expectation is coming to pass.
While also welcoming the guests, Eze Eke Okpo presented the traditional kola to Mrs. Akeredolu and honoured the guests with traditional caps, just as he presented Sharing Hope Foundation with Humanitarian Service Award in recognition of their services to humanity.

The leader of the team, Dr. Emeka Anyanwu in his remarks promised that the initiative will become a yearly venture and that his team will pull resources together to make next year’s event a bigger one.
Other highlights of the day’s event include a visit to Comprehensive Secondary School, Emeabiami and the Arts Gallery, Freedom Square, Owerri by with members of the medical team.

"We have improved on our IGR" says Akeredolu

The Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, on Monday said his administration has improved the Internal Revenue Generations (IGR) of the state to meet the yarnings of the people.

Akeredolu diclosed this at the induction programme for 171 newly recruited employees for the Board of Internal Revenue, held at the State Information Centre (SITA) in Akure, the state capital.

It will be recalled that the State had on May, 2019 employed about 221 workers for the same board.

The Governor announced that the state was able to generate N2.2billion for the month of January in the year 2020, saying his administration has surpassed the N700million that was used to generate on monthly basis by his predecessor.

According to him, "when we came on board, our IGR was between N600million and N700million on monthly basis. It's gladdens my heart that we have improved rapidly.

"In 2018, we were able to generate N1.5billion on monthly basis. In 2019, the state generated about N1.7b on monthly basis and just last month (Janaury), we were able to get N2.2billion"

Akeredolu charged the new workers of the agency to be more creative and focus on exponential increase of the State revenue generations.

He noted that the agency was reorganised to engender professionalism and adoption of innovations around Information and Communication technology to ease revenue administration and collection.

Akeredolu described the recruitment as unprecedented, saying this is the first time in the history of the State that about 400 workers would be employed for the Internal Revenue Board.

The governor urged the new staffers not to join the league of those who are found of putting the state money in their pockets, imploring them to be contented with their enumerations and salaries

"This is not a place where you make money without working. This is place where your input we decide your salaries. Whatever you generate monthly will determine payment of your salaries.

Chairman, Ondo State Internal Revenue Service, Mr. Tolu Adegbei, said since the creation of the agency, it has always surpassed its target yearly.

Adegbei explained that the state targeted N20billion for year but the agency was able to generate N25Billion and the board also move the state target for the year 2019 from N25billion to N30billion.

The State Head of the Service, Mr. Dare Aragbaye, commended the state governor for embarking on the recruitment exercise, which according to him as boosted the the revenue drive of the state.

Aragbaye described IGR as a lifeline for every government that has a vision to create a prosperous state.

Leke Akeredolu
Special Assistant to the Governor (Media Relations)
February 17, 2020.

Amotekun: Ondo Lawmakers to resume legislative business.

Lawmakers of the Ondo State House of Assembly will resume for legislative business on Tuesday 18th February, 2020.
This is to enable them deliberate on the security bill code name ‘Amotekun’ meant to ensure security across the nooks and crannies of the state.

The Lawmakers who are currently on recess are supposed to resume on 24th February.

Governors in the South West States of Nigeria had earlier adopted a common security network code name ‘Amotekun’ in view of the threatening security issues in the zone.

In order to give a legal backing to the operation of the security outfit, the South West Governors resorted to seeking the approval of the Houses of Assembly in the zone.

The Executive arm having forwarded the Ondo State security bill code name ‘ Amotekun’ to the House of Assembly, the Right Honourable Speaker, Oleyelogun Bamidele David requested other Lawmakers to cut short their recess in order to attend to this very important legislative assignment.

Meanwhile, a public hearing on the State security bill will hold on Wednesday at the House of Assembly complex.
It will draw contributions from members of the public on how best to fortify the operations of the ‘Amotekun’ security network.

When operational the ‘Amotekun’ security network is expected to among other things enhance security in the South West States of Nigeria.

SOUTHWEST GOVERNORS, IGP AGREE ON AMOTEKUN

Governors of the Southwest of Nigeria and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) have agreed to work in partnership for the purpose of providing efficient security services that will guarantee safety of lives and property in each of the states from the Units through Wards to Local Government Areas and the State levels.

According to the Chairman of Southwest Governors' Forum who is also the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN,all areas of concerns in some quarters against the formation of Operation Amotekun in the states of the Southwest have been adequately addressed.

Arakunrin Akeredolu spoke briefly after a closed door meeting of the Southwest Governors, Inspector General of Police, traditional rulers and other stakeholders , held in Lagos.

He said:”It is clear now to all of us that the Community Policing which the Nigeria Police is anchoring is one that will benefit all of us from our Units, Wards, Local Governments and States and we have chosen to embrace it.

Governor Akeredolu used the opportunity to declare that the creation of Amotekun was not synonymous with the creation of a regional police but a state based security outfit backed by the laws of the respective states within the Southwest Geopolitical zone.

"All of us have agreed that when you have laws in your respective state, backing any security outfit, Amotekun, you can go ahead for as long as it is within the legal bounds", he said.

Also speaking the Inspector General of Police, Mr Abubakar Adamu said the meeting had afforded the top echelon of the Nigeria Police and the governors to clear areas of misconception about Operation Amotekun at fine tuning its effective take off in line the Community Policing strategy.

" It is now clear to all us that Amotekun is not a regional security outfit but a state based one ", the IG said.

He assured that the Nigeria Police would be ready to work with Amotekun in consonance with the legal framework enacted by the state that established it.

:camera_with_flash: Nguher Gabrielle Zaki

WE WILL CONTINUE TO PROTECT THE RIGHTS OF WOMEN, CHILDREN‐ GOV AKEREDOLU

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has said his administration will continue to protect the rights of women, children and the vulnerable in the state.

Governor Akeredolu said his administration would look at the possibility of extending the current maternity leave from three months to six months to encourage women on the need for exclusive breast feeding.

The Governor spoke in his office on Tuesday while receiving the representatives of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), led by Dr. Tushar Range, the new Chief of Field Office, Akure.

While stressing that the state has benefited immensely from the robust relationship and collaboration with UNICEF, Governor Akeredolu called for more collaborations in all his administration’s social policies in the state.

The Governor reiterated the commitment of his adminstration to the Open Defecation Bill to further ensure hygienic environment in the state.

The new Chief of Field Office, Akure, Dr. Range, assured the Governor of their readiness to give necessary technical support, especially in the area of women and children development.

Dr. Range specifically lauded Governor Akeredolu for his various women and children-oriented programmes and policies, including the school feeding programme for school children to ensure good upbringings.

According to him, all the good initiatives of the government targeting women and children development will be supported by the UNICEF to ensure its sustainability.

Olabode Richard Olatunde
Special Assistant to the Governor (New Media)
February 11, 2020.

� Blessed Michael

Ondo APC Group Rejects Akande As Reconciliation Committee Chairman *says former governor under Akeredolu’s pay roll
Ondo APC Group Rejects Akande As Reconciliation Committee Chairman
*says former governor under Akeredolu’s pay roll

The internal opposition group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo state otherwise known as the Unity Forum has rejected the appointment of the pioneer national chairman, Chief Bisi Akande as chairman of the National Reconciliation Commitee set up by President Muhammadu Buhari.

The forum which is led by a former deputy governor of the state, Alhaji Ali Olanusi not only rejected Akande bit accused him of being on the payroll of the Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

Aside pummeling the reconciliation committee of the party, the group has condemned the setting up of the Advisory Council set up to guide Ondo State chapter of the party to the path of unity ahead of the 2020 governorship election.

The Olanusi group in a communique at the end of its meeting said:
” The Meeting reviewed the replacement of the Senate President with His Excellency Chief Bisi Akande as the Chairman of APC National Reconciliation Committee and pass vote of no confidence on Baba Akande as the Chairman of the Committee.

“This is because the said Chief Bisi Akande is on the pay roll of Ondo State Governor and Baba was part of the reconciliation committee that met with the party Leadership in Ondo State in July, 2019 at Heritage Hotel Akure”.

“That the Unity Forum condemn the setting up of an Advisory Council in APC Ondo State as the composition of the council did not reflect the real membership spread of the party in Ondo State but the “yes men” and cabinet members of the Governor of Ondo State except in one or two Local Governments.