₦airaland Forum

SGF Chairman, Abiodun Commiserates With Abia State Over Killings

The Chairman of Southern Governors' Forum (SGF) and Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, and the people of the State, over the killing of two police operatives in Umuhaia, the State capital on Friday.

Governor Abiodun, in a condolence message he personally signed on Monday said those who perpetrated the heinous act were enemies of the State and Nigeria at large, who would be caught and made to face the full wrath of the law.

He enjoined the people of the State to join hands with Governor Otti to tackle the menace of insecurity in the State by being vigilant and promptly providing credible information in their communities on activities of criminal elements.

Abiodun also called on the Police and other sister security agencies to swiftly fish out the assailants, in order to give residents of the State the assurance of safety of their lives and property.

He further reiterated the call for State Police by the Southern Governors Forum, adding that its introduction will help in resolving local crimes in various States of the Federation.

"I sincerely commiserate with the government and the people of Abia State over the killing of security operatives in the State. Indeed, the issue of security is too important to be left in the hands of security agents alone.

"I urge the people of the State to continue to work in collaboration with security agencies by providing credible information that will help to nip criminal activities in the bud.

"Obviously, every crime has a local outlook. It is on that note that I call on the Federal Government once again to look into the issue of State Policing as a way of strengthening our security architecture in the area of local intelligence gathering at the community level," Abiodun said

Viral Video of Sen. Lere Oyewunmi On 2023 Election Was Blown Out Of Proportion By Disgruntled Elements In Opposition

Our attention has been drawn to a viral video of Sen.Lere Oyewunmi, the lawmaker representing Osun West Senatorial District in the upper chamber of the National Assemby, who also doubles as the Deputy Minority Leader at the Red Chamber, where he was addressing some of his followers at his hometown in Ikire, in Irewole Local Government Area of the State.

In the viral video, which some political jobbers in the opposition in Osun State, in cahoots with some section of media had twisted to suit their parochial tendencies; Senator Oyewunmi was simply narrating the gang up against his ambition in a particular voting area around the town, and alluded to the fact that all his efforts to convince the people of the area to support him was futile.

His notion of 'Mobilization' during the polls, which he expressed in Yoruba was mischievously translated by the media as Vote-buying, purposely to paint the lawmaker black in the eyes of the public.

We want to explicitly put it on record that what Senator Lere Oyewunmi meant connotatively was 'Funds for Mobilization ' and never mentioned anything close to buying of vote.

Without mincing words, Senator Lere Oyewunmi is a revered personality with impeccable pedigree, a consumate politician with high level of intellect, it would be therefore, illogical for a sagacious politician of that standing to involve in such infraction and still come out in public to say it; such thinking by anyone defies logic.

It is obvious that the lawmaker was addressing a gathering of locals with little or no formal education to understand the tenets of "Funds for Mobilization " hence, the option of that pattern of expression in Yoruba Language.

We, thereby, warn redundant politicians in the State and their co-travellers in the media to desist from such cheap propaganda, as Senator Lere Oyewunmi by ideology and orientation will never act in variance with rule of law and democratic ethos.

E-signed

Adeolu Ajayi

Media Consultant to Distinguished Senator Lere Oyewunmi.

SOUTHERN GOVERNORS’ FORUM
COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED AT THE CONCLUSION OF THE MEETING OF THE GOVERNORS OF SOUTHERN NIGERIA AT THE OGUN STATE PRESIDENTIAL LODGE, G.R.A, IBARA, ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE ON MONDAY, 24TH JUNE 2024

At the end of the Southern Governors Forum meeting held on Monday, 24th June 2024, the following resolutions were made by the Governors:
The Forum paid respects to the immediate past Chairman, late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN, and extended their courtesies to his family while appreciating the past Chairman for the solid foundation he laid by putting the forum in good stead.

1.The forum thanked all member Governors for their support and commitment to the "Asaba declaration" which was a resolve to ensure that Southern Nigeria produced the Presidential Candidate. The forum also thanked their counterparts in the North under the auspices of the Northern Governors’ Forum for their unwavering support for the resolution.
2. The Forum commended the laudable economic recovery reforms and policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda (RHA). The Forum unanimously reaffirmed their support for him in his unwavering resolve to reposition the country and build a great future for all of us.
3. The Southern Governors applauded the President for conceptualizing and commencing the construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project, which cuts across eight states. The forum noted that this laudable project will create employment in the construction industry ecosystem, boost productivity by drastically reducing travel time, promote tourism, and open up and integrate all the Southern States to more investment opportunities.
4. The Southern Governors advocated that the Federal government should rehabilitate, repair, and reconstruct Trunk A roads and transfer roads to states that have expressed interest in taking them over.
5. The Forum will commission a regional multimodal transport master plan that prioritizes connectivity by rail, road, air, and water to enhance regional connectivity and facilitate the interstate and intra-region ease of doing business.
6. Being the economic and industrial hub of the country, the Forum highlighted the need to address the inadequate power supply in the region. To achieve 90,000 MW of electricity to adequately serve the estimated 90 million people in the Southern Region (using the rule of thumb of 1,000 MW per 1 million population), member states were encouraged to take advantage of the recent constitutional amendment that now allows states to regulate, generate, transmit and distribute electricity whilst also considering renewable sources of energy. The forum also noted the pressing need for an alternative power infrastructure grid to reduce the impact of grid collapse in the region.
7. The Forum recognized the necessity of total PMS (petrol) deregulation and pledged support to the Energy Transition program of Mr. President. The Forum urged member states to implement a quick transition to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Electric Vehicles (EVs) as a condition precedent to full deregulation to cushion effects on citizens.
8. Members of the Forum commended Mr. President on the different food palliative support to the states by way of rice and grains. Governors were also commended for complementing Mr. President in their various states through several initiatives ranging from food palliatives to transport allowances. The forum resolved to be more aggressive and intentional about food security. All states were enjoined to intensify their agricultural resurgence/revolution initiatives based on the cash and food crops best suited for each region to achieve food sufficiency, self-reliance, and employment generation. States are encouraged to set up special agro-processing zones to extract the most value from the agro-value chain.
9. The Forum discussed the minimum wage issues demanded by labour and unanimously agreed that the minimum wage should be reflective of the cost of living and that each state should be allowed to negotiate its minimum wage. This led to the forum’s discussion on fiscal federalism and devolution of powers.
10. Southern Governors resolved to continue to advocate for the creation of state police against the success of community-based regional security outfits that have significantly helped intelligence gathering. It is believed that this will enable Governors to be Chief Security Officers indeed.
11. The Forum, still on fiscal federalism, discussed the issue of solid mineral exploration and exploitation which today remains on the exclusive list in the constitution. Member Governors expressed concern over current practices where minerals licenses are issued, and exploitations are undertaken without recourse to state governments. These continue to be carried out often attracting criminal activities and attendant negative environmental impact, ecological degradation with no remediation commitments, and no revenue accruing to both States and the Federal Government.
12. The Forum expressed concern over the controversy of the tenure of Local Government Chairmen in Rivers State and took a common stand in support of the position of the law and constitution.
13. The Forum members resolved to remain united and very committed to oneness of purpose noting that the physical boundaries that divide us do not compare to the strong bonds of enterprise, resilience, and culture that we share and unites us. Member States resolved to be deliberate about intra-region trade, partnerships, and investment facilitation and promotion which was agreed will require a structured and coordinated collaborative approach.
14. The Southern States Development Agenda (SSDA) will be set up and will comprise a team whose primary responsibility is to outline a holistic plan to foster trade and investment, sustainable growth and development, economic prosperity, social harmony, and food security for the region. They will work hand in glove with individual states' Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agencies, the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), and other multilateral agencies.
15. The Forum unanimously chose His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun CON, to provide the needed leadership and appointed His Excellency, Professor Charles Soludo CFR as Vice Chairman.
16. Members expressed their support for the newly appointed Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Forum.
17. The Forum concluded that its meetings should be held quarterly and rotated among member states.

…………………………………………….
H.E. Prince Dapo Abiodun CON
Governor, Ogun State
Chairman, Southern Governors’ Forum






………………………………………..
H.E. Prof Charles C. Soludo CFR
Governor, Anambra State
Vice- Chariman, Southern Governors’ Forum
………………………………………..
H.E .Engr. Seyi Makinde
Governor, Oyo State

………………………………………..
H.E. Babajide Olusola Sanwoolu
Governor, Lagos State
………………………………………..
H.E. Mr Godwin Obaseki
Governor, Edo State

………………………………………..
H.E Sen Hope Uzodinma
Governor, Imo State
………………………………………..
H.E. Abiodun Oyebanji
Governor, Ekiti State

………………………………………..
HE Duoye Diri
Governor, Bayelsa State
………………………………………..
H.E. Ademola Adeleke
Governor, Osun State

………………………………………..
H.E. Pastor Umo Eno
Governor, Akwa lbom State
………………………………………..
H.E. Sir Siminalayi Fubara GSSRS
Governor, Rivers State

………………………………………..
H.E. Bassey Edet Otu
Governor, Cross Rivers State
………………………………………..
H.E. Rt. Hon. Francis O. Nwifuru
Governor, Ebonyi State

………………………………………..
H.E. Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa
Governor, Ondo State
………………………………………..
H.E. Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah
Governor, Enugu State

………………………………………..
H.E. Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff Oborevwori
Governor, Delta State
………………………………………..
H.E. Lucky Orimisan Ayedatiwa
Governor, Ondo State

………………………………………..
HE Dr Alex Otti OFR
Governor, Abia State

President Tinubu's travelling in chartered aircraft, a national embarrassment-Aviation expert

An aviation expert, Dr Godwin Emmanuel, has expressed grave concerns over recent developments that caused President Bola Tinubu to travel abroad on chartered flights.

Emmanuel, who said that the public shame that befell Nigeria, Africa's most populous country, as its president flew abroad for engagements in chartered flights was unquantifiable, urged the Presidency to prepare a supplementary budget providing new aircraft for the president and Vice President Kashim Shettima, and pass it to the National Assembly for legislative approval without delay.

Speaking in Lagos on Thursday, Emmanuel said President Tinubu's trip on chartered flights had reduced his personality, image, and security, as Nigerians could not guarantee the safety of the hired aircraft.

He said: "Nigeria must not toy with the safety of the president.

"It is on record that most of the planes in the Presidential Air Fleet are already old, and some of them are in deplorable condition.

"The 23-year-old Gulfstream GV is said to be due for major engine overhaul, while Falcon 7x, which is 13 years old, is undergoing C check, as two of the three engines are in engine shop for an overhaul.

"Nigerians must also note that the 19-year-old B 737 is also undergoing major maintenance.

"It is a national shame and disgrace that the Presidency has no functional aircraft.

"It's on record that the president can not use the aircraft in the fleet for his regular foreign trips to woo investors, build goodwill, and communicate with the external world in Nigeria's interest.

"Of late, the vice president, who was going to United States of America, had to shelve the trip because his plane developed technical faults.

"The President's wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, suffered a similar fate. This is a terrible development.

"God forbid that bad thing should happen to the president, vice president, or their spouses.

"The president and vice president represent the image, integrity, and symbol of the Nigerian government, and we should save ourselves from this shame by ensuring that they have functional aircraft."

Emmanuel, who added that no one should toy with the safety and security of the president as it would de-robe and detract from Nigeria's standing in the comity of nations, said that the president should be able to travel when the need arises, in order to build bridges and guarantee Nigeria's development and well-being.

Idanre community to honour Akinyelure, Akin Deko, Akintan, others

In recognition of their great contributions to the development of the ancient kingdom of Idanre, Ondo State, the Idanre Development Assembly (IDA) has penciled down prominent sons and daughters of the town for a grand reception and award ceremony.

Among those to be honoured at the awards scheduled to be held in the ancient town on Saturday, July 6, are the Chairman, Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd, Chief Pius Akinyelure; a post humorous award to former Minister of Agriculture and former LISA of Idanre Kingdom, Late Chief Gabriel Akin Deko; a former Executive Director of Wema Bank, late Prince Afolabi Ayinuola; a retired justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Hon.Justice Samuel Akinola Akintan, as well as Chief Mrs Omolara Iwayemi Ogomudia, the wife of former Chief of Defence Staff, General Alexander Ogomudia.

The awards will be presided over by the Owa and Paramount Ruler of Idanre Kingdom, Oba (Dr) Fredrick Adegunle Aroloye, JP CFR and will have the governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, as one of the special guests.

This was made known in a statement issued by the President-General, IDA, Dr Anthony A.Omolola, and made available to newsmen in Lagos on Friday.

Referencing the profiles of the honorees, the statement described Akinyelure as a distinguished technocrat with a proven track record in the Oil and Gas sector, a seasoned administrator, businessman, foremost industrialist, philanthropist and astute politician.


It noted that following a stellar 35-year career, including two as a consultant with Exxon Mobil Oil, Chief Pius Akinyelure retired from Exxon Mobil on June 1, 1997, having held board level positions of several companies and financial institutions in the past, including NNPCL, Wema Bank Plc., Credite Bank Ltd., Odu’a Investment Limited, Oluwa Glass PLC., Okitipupa Oil Palm PLC., Odu’a Telecommunications Limited, Cocoa Industries Nig. Ltd, Hallmark Bank and West African Portland Cement Plc, among others.

It added that the eminent jurist, Akintan, an alumnus of the Holborn College of Law and Lincoln’s Inn London, began his career in the Federal Ministry of Justice on July 20, 1964 as a pupil counsel and rose through the ranks to serve on the Bench of the Supreme Court between 2004 and December 2008, when he retired, following which he served as a member of the Police Service Commission (PSC) and later the National Judicial Council (NJC) for five years.

It, therefore, described Akin Deko, a building contractor and former regional Minister for Agriculture in the Western region of Nigeria from 1957 to 1963 and a personal friend of Obafemi Awolowo, as the brain behind an agriculture settlement scheme that employed and paid an initial amount of capital to new graduates from established agriculture training colleges.

MFM and erring pastors’ poisonous tales


By Funmi Branco

AS a church, the Mountain of Fire and Miracles (MFM) organization is known for its emphasis on holy living, anti-demon fervor, and evangelistic preoccupation. With its investments in the spiritual and social wellbeing of its members, there is no doubt that over the years, it has been placed at a vantage position as one of the churches that God is using to change lives. The church, relying on its divine mandate, has been used to save many people from physical and spiritual challenges. Testimonies abound of people who encountered massive turnarounds through the church, living glorious lives after decades of demonic oppression. That the church has done a lot for many cannot be doubted. Beyond evangelism, the church has been performing its social responsibilities creditably; it has invested massively in youth empowerment, helping to lift up the Nigerian society through sports and steer the youth away from crime. The church has various sports clubs that have produced notable star players who have gone on to display their mettle on the international stage. First class graduates from the church are given huge sums of money as a form of encouragement, the objective being to channel youthful energies towards profitable endeavours. There have been occasions in the past when these high-flying graduates were given cars, the thinking being that others would be able to take them as role models and strive towards excellence in their academic pursuits.



The MFM General Overseer, Dr. DK Olukoya, is a well-known firebrand preacher who gives no quarter to demons and demonology. He has never hidden his desire to see people worshipping and living in a climate of freedom, totally divested from demonic bondage. He is one of the potent instruments that God has been using to depopulate the kingdom of darkness. That being the case, he and the church he presides over cannot escape censure, persecution and serial attacks by the cosmic powers whose activities have been hampered or even hobbled by the church. The agenda of the naysayers who love evil and resist the activities of Olukoya and the church is to derail heaven-bound people by attacking the message of sanctification and holiness that the church preaches. That is understandable. How can the kingdom of darkness rest when so many people are being delivered from witchcraft and foundational problems? Satan’s agents cannot cease casting aspersions on the church, but truth is constant irrespective of their devious antics. This is the background from which the recent falsehood purveyed against the church by certain ex-members must be seen.



When two ex-members and pastors recently rose against the church with their salacious stories, many immediately began barraging and de-marketing the church with gusto, giving no thought to the need to hear the other side of the story. But as the leadership of the church reacted to the falsehood, it became clear that the ex-pastors were merely playing to the gallery. It turns out that at no time did the church frame up its ex-members identified as Femi Jimoh and Caleb Oloruntele. Recently, the three individuals who testified against the former members in court over the alleged act narrated how the duo approached them to solicit their assistance on how to hire a gun to rob the “first fruits” offering of the church in 2008. These individuals, namely Akeem Omojomolo, Tajudeen Usein, and Fatai Adebayo, revealed how they played along in the plot, leading to their arrest. By their narrative, it became clear that Pastor Jimoh’s allegation in a recent interview that the church was behind his imprisonment for nine years without trial over alleged armed robbery is nothing but sheer bunkum.



Jimoh had claimed that his ordeal started when he met the chief security officer of the MFM founder at a native doctor’s house, while Caleb claimed that Olukoya wanted him dead because he refused to give false testimony against a pastor identified as Femi Agboola. Strangely, as revealed by the Chief Legal Adviser of the church, Davidson Adejuwon, with documentary evidence, the claims of the duo are based on pure mischief. Hear Adejuwon: “Is it not curious to push a narrative that Dr Olukoya, the General Overseer, locked them up when all members of their family refused to get two individuals for nine years to stand as their sureties for them to be released? A case of planned armed attack on credible intelligence against the church which could have led to the death of any member cannot be treated and handled internally by the church. We must report such to the law enforcement agency saddled with the responsibilities to investigate and deal with such issues. And that was exactly what we did as a responsible church.”



Whereas the accused claimed that they were detained by Olukoya for years, the evidence says just the opposite. On page 1 of the judgment delivered by the High Court of Lagos State on July 1, 2016, in the case between the people of Lagos State and Oluwafemi Jimoh, Henry Aiyewero and Caleb Oloruntele (LCD/19/2009), the court made the following pronouncement: “The prosecution dragged its feet, closed and reopened its case, and sought for endless adjournments. What makes it more worrisome is that the defendants continued with this pattern of delay when it was their turn to present their defence, in spite of the fact that the Ist and 2nd defendants who had been granted bail did not meet the conditions of bail, so they remained in custody.” There you have it: the accused remained in custody because their families did not rally round them to meet the bail conditions imposed upon them by the court, not because Olukoya ordered them remanded permanently in jail!


In this social media era where people rush to judgment without hearing the facts, many people easily build hell for themselves here on earth. Bloggers possessing no moral background peddle fake news with vigour. Therefore, there is a need to let the world know what actually transpired. Contrary to Pastor Jimoh’s claim that Olukoya and MFM do not forgive, there is ample evidence of the church’s toleration of his improprieties. He was redeployed several times following complaints by members of his congregation. In a letter dated October 14, 2002, he was directed to proceed from the Warri, Delta State branch of the church to Lagos for reorientation, at the completion of which he could be redeployed in accordance with the discretion of the appropriate authorities. The letter was signed by Pastor Moses Odunsi, the Regional Overseer. The second letter of redeployment, signed by the zonal pastor, Kayode Oyejide, conveyed his redeployment from Gbagi zone to the Regional Headquarters. It was dated August 19, 2003. The third, dated June 27, 2005, conveyed his redeployment from SWII to the Regional Headquarters in Lagos. It was signed by Pastor Martins Adeneye, SWII Regional Overseer.


It is clear that the church tried to reform Pastor Jimoh to no avail. What is more, he and his family are the architect of his long stint in detention, not the MFM. Not having imposed the bail conditions, the church was in no place to help him meet them. The case was between him and the state.



Branco sent this piece through funmibranco@naver.com

Agriculture:Legislator Distributes 3500 Fertilizers, Pumping Machines in Kwara


A member of the Red Chamber in the National Assembly, representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, and Chairman, Senate Committee on Agriculture, Production Services and Rural Development, Senator Saliu Mustapha, has flagged off the distribution of 3, 500 bags of 50kg fertilizers and 1000 modern pumping machines to farmers across the four local government areas he represents.

Speaking on the sidelines of the exercise, Mustapha explained that the gesture was aimed to enhance the drive towards food security and sustainability in the district, adding that it was the first phase of an embedded broader strategy to boost the sector.

During the distribution of the farm inputs, which took place at the playing ground of Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority in Ilorin, the State capital, the lawmaker assured the people that more farmers would benefit from the scheme in the second phase of the distribution exercise.

He said the scheme tagged: “Empowering Kwara Central Farmers: Unlocking self- sufficiency in food production,” is aimed at supporting agricultural productivity and improve crop yields for local farmers.

“The impact of climate change and over cultivation of farm land has negatively affected the quality of the soil for farming. This has resulted in lower yield of crop produce.

"Meanwhile, the distribution of such a significant quantity of fertilizers demonstrates a substantial investment in the agricultural sector, reflecting a commitment to enhancing food security and supporting the livelihood of farmers to boost food production in the state", Mustapha noted.

The Kwara lawmaker, therefore, used the opportunity to reel out his achievements in office in the last one year as a legislator to include facilitating the reconstruction of one kilometer asphaltic road opposite Al-Hikmah University leading to Oke-Foma link road in Ilorin West local government area.

He added that solar-powered motorised boreholes and street lights were also installed across the four local government areas of the senatorial district to complement the state government’s effort in ensuring that the people have access to safe water.

The Senator also revealed that over 3000 students benefitted from his JAMB and WAEC scholarship scheme recently. This is apart from facilitating employment opportunities for over 20 indigenes of the district at the federal level.

He then commended the Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and Federal Government led by Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their investments in the agric sector in the state and the country at large, as he pledged sustainable collaborations with them to ensure food security.

Food Security: Legislator Distributes 4500 Fertilizers, Pumping Machines in Kwara


A member of the Red Chamber in the National Assembly, representing Kwara Central Senatorial District, and Chairman, Senate Committee on Agriculture, Production Services and Rural Development, Senator Saliu Mustapha, has flagged off the distribution of 4,500 bags of 50kg fertilizers and 1000 modern pumping machines to farmers across the four local government areas he represents.

Speaking on the sidelines of the exercise, Mustapha explained that the gesture was aimed to enhance the drive towards food security and sustainability in the district, adding that it was the first phase of an embedded broader strategy to boost the sector.

During the distribution of the farm inputs, which took place at the playing ground of Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority in Ilorin, the State capital, the lawmaker assured the people that more farmers would benefit from the scheme in the second phase of the distribution exercise.

He said the scheme tagged: “Empowering Kwara Central Farmers: Unlocking self- sufficiency in food production,” is aimed at supporting agricultural productivity and improve crop yields for local farmers.

“The impact of climate change and over cultivation of farm land has negatively affected the quality of the soil for farming. This has resulted in lower yield of crop produce.

"Meanwhile, the distribution of such a significant quantity of fertilizers demonstrates a substantial investment in the agricultural sector, reflecting a commitment to enhancing food security and supporting the livelihood of farmers to boost food production in the state", Mustapha noted.

The Kwara lawmaker, therefore, used the opportunity to reel out his achievements in office in the last one year as a legislator to include facilitating the reconstruction of one kilometer asphaltic road opposite Al-Hikmah University leading to Oke-Foma link road in Ilorin West local government area.

He added that solar-powered motorised boreholes and street lights were also installed across the four local government areas of the senatorial district to complement the state government’s effort in ensuring that the people have access to safe water.

The Senator also revealed that over 3000 students benefitted from his JAMB and WAEC scholarship scheme recently. This is apart from facilitating employment opportunities for over 20 indigenes of the district at the federal level.

He then commended the Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and Federal Government led by Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their investments in the agric sector in the state and the country at large, as he pledged sustainable collaborations with them to ensure food security.

Ogun: An Era of Transformation Without Affliction

By Olaniyi Ajibola

The present pace and tempo of development in Ogun State, Southwest Nigeria, indeed call for critical evaluation, considering the past experience of the residents in the Gateway State since the inception of the fourth republic in particular, especially the period between 2003 and 2019.

While every citizen desires transformation in their socioeconomic life towards prosperity and abundant life where security of life, social justice, affordable health care delivery and infrastructural development among others are guaranteed, it was a different ball game for the people of Ogun State during the period under review.

Developmental agenda of those dark days were characterized with deception, injustice, sectional tendency, pathological lies and propaganda, making life more difficult for the people rather than addressing their challenges and aspirations.

However, the turn of political events on the dawn of 29th May, 2019, when a board room guru and political pundit, Prince Dapo Abiodun, came into the saddle as the Governor of the State against all odds and machinations of gang of power mongers permanently changed the narrative to the greatest happiness of the generality of the populace.

Prince Dapo Abiodun, strictly walking his talks during the campaign and his avowed resolution to change the old order of affliction in Ogun State initiated an inclusive style of governance that was a total departure from the past and the one which brought hope and sustainable relief to all irrespective of status.

His ISEYA mantra was a robust masterplan in which all the administration's laudable projects were predicated, with consistent and eloquent slogan of inspiration for social mobilization", Buidling Our Future Together ". As the Vice-president, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, rightly observed during the Expanded National MSME Clinics held in Abeokuta, the State capital recently, Governor Dapo Abiodun had brilliantly and sagaciously formulated and implemented projects that have maximally explored the state's proximity to the Nigeria's commercial city of Lagos.

Of course, the political will and capacity, amidst limited resources by which Prince Dapo Abiodun has constructed over 500km of roads across the three senatorial districts of the state in less five years and with adherence to the best global standard implicitly corroborate the observation of the Vice-president.

In the same vein, the level of courage and determination the Governor exhibited by turning an hitherto tick forest to a world class airport at Ilisan-Iperu axis of the State, a continguos area to Lagos also give credence to the submission of Alhaji Kashim Shettima.

The Gateway Agro-Cargo Airport, which has been adjudged by leading aviation experts as having the longest runway in Nigeria and in the West Africa corridor, as well as the biggest apron and control tower in that regard speaks to the unassailable fact that the Prince of Iperu is serious about the business of governance in the same way he successfully ran his private business.

Furthermore, Abiodun's relentless efforts towards establishing a seaport and a dryport in addition to the airport, for the purpose of relieving thousands of Manufacturers in his State the frustration of congested ports in Lagos remain a remarkable legacy of a focused helmsman.

Every Nigerian can attest to the pioneering role the Governor of Ogun State has taken to make life more comfortable for his people. His impressive and prompt response to the removal of fuel subsidy in 2023, announcing an immediate palliatives of different kinds to the civil servants and other residents of the State was widely applauded across the country and beyond.

Abiodun's social Welfare and Wellbeing initiative, where thousands of market women had been empowered and supported in their businesses with several billions of naira, through the popular 'Oko'wo Dapo, had significantly impacted on the socioeconomic life of these vulnerable segment of the society.

That is the same way he has renewed the hope of thousands of students in the State,starting from elementary to tertiary institutions. The fifty thousand naira bursary distributed to all students of Ogun extraction in all the institutions of higher learning across Nigeria elicited great commendations among the students and parents alike.

Perhaps, the most emotional and humane of all Prince Dapo Abiodun's interventions to cushion the adverse effects of the present economic situation in Nigeria was the free Surgical Operations the Governor embarked upon for 70,000 residents who are in need of such medical attention but lack economic power to secure the service.

This programme recorded array of testimonies from thousands of residents in need of various surgical operations without financial strength, who have been suffering for years in silence until succour came their ways through the intervention.

The Governor, at an Expanded National MSME Clinics earlier mentioned, partly captured his efforts in this manner", The Expanded National MSME Clinics mirror the successful model of our own State MSMEs Business Clinics, which we have diligently organized and pursued since the inception of our administration in 2019.

" Our primary objective has always been to foster employment opportunities, particularly for our teeming youth. Today's event aligns perfectly with our on-going efforts to support our entrepreneurs, facilitate business formalization, and enhance their access to government and financial institutions for favorable loans.

"Our achievements in the SMEs subsector are testaments to the visionary policies, interventions, and programmes that we have implemented. By prioritizing Investors incentives such as land rebates, improved infrastructure, and enhanced security measures, we have cultivated a conducive environment for industrial growth. This commitment has garnered recognition, as evidenced by the prestigious Best of Africa Governor in Industrial Revolution Award bestowed upon me by FIN Forbes.

"Furthermore, we have leveraged technology to streamline business processes and enhance the Ease of Doing Business in our State, making us the best State in Nigeria in Ease of Doing Business Index . The implementation of various reforms, mostly rooted in advanced technology, planning and administration platforms have revolutionized permit requests, tax administration, land allocation and payment procedures, ensuring efficiency, effectiveness and transparency in all economic activities across all sectors.

"In our relentless pursuit of economic prosperity and self- reliance, we have established vital institutions such as the State Enterprise Development Agency (OGSEDA) and the Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency (OgunInvest). These entities, along with others, serve as pillars of support for Small and Medium Enterprises, offering crucial funding opportunities, capacity-building and business advisory services.

"The decision to designate Ogun State as a host for one of your MSME Hubs is indeed a strategic positioning pregnant with economic potentials. With our burgeoning economic clusters and thriving Free Trade Zones, we are unarguably the industrial hub of choice in Nigeria and gateway to West Africa subregional market.

" I am particularly proud of our initiatives aimed at youth empowerment, including vocational training programmes and targeted loans disbursed through the Ogun State Agricultural and Multipurpose Credit Agency (OSAMCA). These efforts have not only nurtured budding entrepreneurs but have also contributed to the socio-economic development of our communities.

"The recent rating by BudgIT, ranking Ogun State 7th in overall Fiscal Performance and 1st in most improved Internally Generated Revenue, clearly affirmed our resilience and attractiveness to investors. We remain steadfast in our commitment to sustaining this momentum through progressive policies and technological innovation.

"As the Governor of a State endowed with vast resources and strategic competitive advantages, I am confident in our ability to serve as a beacon of prosperity and opportunities in Nigeria. I extend a heartfelt invitation to all prospective investors to explore the boundless investment oppourtunities that Ogun State has to offer".

The confidence and frequency in which Governor Dapo Abiodun constantly reel out the tempo of his transformative efforts in sequence at every opportunity clearly signify sincerity and clarity of purpose, conviction and capacity; unlike the era of vague transformation with palpable affliction.

Congratulations to the good people of Ogun State on this dawn of inclusive governance with human face.

Olaniyi Ajibola, writes from Abeokuta

Uk based financial expert, Dr Salaam commends Gov. AbdulRasak on infrastructural development

....urges contractors and newly appointed Development Officers to be dutiful

A UK based leading financial expert and Entrepreneur, Dr. Kazeem Olayimika Salaam, has lauded the giant strides of Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRasak, on infrastructural Development across the State, saying his commitment to speedy development is unprecedented.

Salaam, who is presently the Secretary General of the Kwara State Association in the UK (KWASANG), and an Advisory Board member of the Central Association of Nigerians in the UK (CANUK) urged contractors and newly appointed community development officers to be dutiful and diligent in the handling of various projects in the three senatorial districts of Kwara State, in line with the vision and focus of the Governor.

"I want to passionately and conscientiously implore the newly appointed Community Development Officers across the 16 local government of the state to discharge their duties honourably, Ideally, the following duties are expected of them- monitoring and promoting economic development projects, establishing partnerships with local businesses and community organisations to promote community development programs among other functions".

He however, eulogised the Governor's impacful projects in the state capital and in Kwara South, which according to him has brought significant milestone in the state's progress.

He said", With a visionary approach, the Kwara State Government under the inclusive leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasak has prioritized strategic investments in infrastructural projects across the state. These initiatives underscore a dedication to enhancing connectivity, driving economic growth, and enriching the lives of citizens.

"In a strategic move to boost economic growth and enhance societal well-being, the government has demonstrated prudence and foresight by allocating resources to critical infrastructure projects across the State, and Kwara South in particular.

"This investment underscores the administration's dedication to fostering sustainable development and improving the quality of life for citizens across Kwara.
Without mincing words, infrastructure serves as the backbone of any thriving economy by facilitating commerce, connectivity, and community development.

"One of the major differences between advanced countries such as United Kingdom, United State of America and others, and developing countries like Nigeria is the wide infrastructural gap between the capital cities and other towns and villages Therefore, I commend His Excellency’s proactive approach in prioritizing infrastructure spending in these formerly neglected towns and villages and recognizing its pivotal role in driving innovation, fostering job creation, and fortifying the State in all ramifications ".


The expert, who is popularly known as Alabaja Omu-Aran, by his admirers added that the infusion of funds into infrastructural initiatives signifies a tangible commitment to addressing long-standing infrastructure challenges while laying the groundwork for future growth and prosperity.

"He continued: "Recent approvals by the Kwara State Executive Council, given for the construction and rehabilitation of Owu Falls Road phase (I); Omu Aran/Oko Road, Arandun Township Road, Roundabout-Esie-Oro Township Road; Ajase Ipo-Oke Iya Road in Irepodun local government, and the completion of the Idera-Alabe section of the Ilere District Road., would not only stimulating economic activity but also positioning the State for sustained competitiveness among the federating units.

"As an advocate of sustainable economic growth and development in our dear state, myself and the rest of the team in Nigeria are ready to collaborate with government, stakeholders, industry partners and community leaders to ensure the successful implementation of infrastructure projects that benefit all and sundry in Kwara State.

"Lastly, I want to commend His Excellency, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasak for his unwavering dedication to infrastructure development and reaffirm my commitment to supporting initiatives that drive inclusive growth, foster innovation, and build a more resilient future for all".

NUJ South West Zone Commends Gov. Abiodun On Appointment Of Journalist As HoS

The leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) South West Zone has commended the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on the appointment of Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, as the Head of Service.

It would be recalled that Onasanya, a leading journalist in the service of Ogun State Government, was recently appointed by the governor as the 20th Head of Service.

In a communique issued at the end of the zonal meeting of the union held in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital on Friday, Abiodun was lauded for appointing Onasanya as the first journalist to become Head of Service in the State.

The NUJ also praised the governor for his unflinching support for the Ogun State Council of the Union since his assumption of office in 2019, calling on other State Governors to emulate Abiodun's exemplary gesture.

"The leadership of the NUJ Zone B specifically appreciated the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for appointing a journalist, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, as the first NUJ member to be the Head of Service of the state.

"The Union appealed to other state governors to magnanimously elevate qualified journalists/information officers to the position of permanent secretary, Head of Service and other key public offices," the communique reads in part.

Exclusive: Like Jayson Blair like Fisayo Soyombo

By Simon, A. FAKEYE

About twenty-one years ago, in 2003, the then 152-year old New York Times owned up an act of journalistic fraud committed by Jayson Blair, 27, one of its 375 staff. The American newspaper revealed that Blair “fabricated comments, concocted scenes, lifted material from other newspapers and wire services”. The newspaper with more than ten million subscribers further stated that his former reporter was fond of selecting details from photographs to create the impression he had been somewhere or seen someone, when he had not; that Blair faked stories from Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio and Texas without ever leaving New York, using a cell phone and laptop computer to disguise his whereabouts and deceive his bosses.

"Five Times reporters, two researchers and three editors, . . . 'ran a 14,000-word front-page story, entitled 'Deceptions in a Reporter's Work', in 36 stories of the 73 articles Blair had written for the newspaper", some of which found its place on the cover page of the daily newspaper following "plagiarism lodged by The San Antonio Express-News".
The New York Times was not alone in such mess; Janet Cooke (reporter) has caused similar embarrassment to Washington Post in 1981 when the Newspaper has to return a Pulitzer Prize over the invention of an 8-year-old heroin addict. Also, Stephen Glass of the New Republic published 27 fabricated articles.

In a like manner, the simple and factual reactions of Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun (IBD Dende) to defamatory comments by FIJ has raised pertinent questions against the accuracy and authenticity of FIJ reports, hence, the publishing herein of the result of a study conducted by RazorTimes which focused primarily on the allegations targeted on the top echelon of Nigeria Customs Service and an innocent business man, advocate of Peace and Community Leader, Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun; the study spotted varied disconnections and inaccuracies which spontaneously calls for an unbiased review of FIJ investigative report titled "Undercover as Smuggler" for fabricated comments, concocted scenes, lifted material from other newspapers, selected details from still and moving pictures as well as insertion of contradictory statements and fake stories.

*Fabricated Comment: IBD Hotel built with proceeds of smuggling*
The statement that “IBD International Hotel, Ilaro, well-known by all and sundry to have been built with proceeds of smuggling” by Mr Fisayo Soyombo would not stand the test of accuracy and truth; the piece of land which contained the first phase of the Hotel (5-Room) was purchased with a credit facility, the construction was carried out with money legitimately earned while the second phase was built with revenue generated when two soccer clubs from Osogbo, Osun State occupied the Hotel rooms for a whole year as diligently facilitated and prudently managed by the pioneer female manager. He tagged Ilaro as a “town renowned among smugglers” whereas there are three popular towns (Obelle, Ohunbe, Oja-Odan) ahead of Ilaro in terms of bubbling and proximity to business activities along the border corridor. Against his fabricated comment on the roads en route Republic of Benin, be it tarred, untarred, dusty brown or not, driving against traffic is not applicable, hence the question mark on his next paragraph where he said, “in a matter of minutes, we cross to the opposite lane, driving against traffic for another minute before vanishing into another footpath by Foursquare Bus Stop (which footpath?), away from the glare of the village (which village around that axis?). This doesn’t add up! Among others is this one: “His instruction is that all three of us should converge on a settlement called Ona-Egbo, some five kilometres from Ilaro Polytechnic at the centre of Ilaro”. Firstly, FPI is not at the Centre of Ilaro. Secondly, Ona-Egbo, about 2km to FPI is not a settlement.

*Concocted Scene: Adja-Quere housing hordes of stalls filled to the brim with ready-for-smuggling rice*
The mileage, landscape and transaction as published by FIJ Fisayo Soyombo on its portal on February 21, 2024, were not in agreement with the structure of Adja-Quere's market square. Soyombo described the scene thus, “in a little over an hour, Jide and I arrive at a Beninese market in Adja-Ouere housing hordes of stalls filled to the brim with ready-for-smuggling rice. Many of the storesare locked, only specifically opened when a smuggler shows up to move goods. Inside the one patronised by Alaba, I see tens of thousands of rice bags delicately stacked on one another in multiples of twenties. Going by the description above, it shows clearly that the investigator didn't know the location of Adja-Quere's market and Ona-Egbo located in both Plateau District of Benin Republic and Yewa North LGA, Ogun State, SouthWest Nigeria respectively, which implies that Mr Fisayo Soyombo hadn’t visit the location. For fact-check, we challenge any fact-finding patriotic individual to visit Adja-Quere, about 10km journey from Obelle town (Nigeria borderline with Republic of Benin).

*Lifted Material from Other Newspaper: Gun running allegation*
Mr Fisayo Soyombo lifted a content from an online platform (Society Now). The content which borders on gun running did not provide any logical reference like photograph of the guns, types and serial number of the guns, the location of the interception, names of suspects et cetera. At least, FIJ careless about the accuracy of the lifted allegation and thereafter published the defamatory material without any iota of regard for the Code of Ethics For Nigerian Journalists.*

*Selected Details from Photographs to Create the Impression He Had Been Somewhere or Seen Someone, When He Had Not: Video of IBD’s Confrontation with Customs*
The details of the video differs with the transcript produced by FIJ Fisayo Soyombo; It says the controversial contraband belonged to Chief Egungbohun while Compt Ejigbunnu debunked it by saying the seized item was not his. The Comptroller said it would be wrong for anybody to ask any CP to call the IGP in that situation, an illustration that nullified the insinuation by FIJ that the Wale mentioned by Chief Egungbohun was the CGC. The FIJ logo imprinted on the video says it all as Mr Fisayo Soyombo or any of his reporter were not at the scene; He had selected the details of the video to create impression that he had been at the scene. Just as the Times described one of Blair’s false reports, Soyombo’s reported “image was so compelling, the words so haunting”. The newspaper wrote in its edition of May 11, 2003 that “he used these techniques to write falsely about emotionally charged moments in recent history, . . . His tools of deceit were a cellphone and a laptop computer — which allowed him to blur his true whereabouts — as well as round-the-clock access to databases of news articles from which he stole.

*Face-Saving: From Allegation to Participation, then Revelation*
It will be recalled that within a span of six weeks; February 21 to April 2, 2024, Mr Fisayo Soyombo used three different titles for his reports. He used ALLEGATION as his first point of call provoked by name-calling as if jury of a competent court was given its verdict. The law of evidence is that “he who alleges the existence of facts must prove so” (Section 101 of Evidence Act). It’s worrisome that FIJ Fisayo Soyombo wouldn't present a well-grounded evidence-beyond every reasonable doubt-that Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun indulges in smuggling. He referred to Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun as “notorious smuggler” in “gun running” and the Nigeria Customs Service as accomplice in the “illicit” business. Facts have proved otherwise. He wrote that the “trailers he saw moving stuff unchecked labelled Headquarters Movement”. He alleged that Customs smuggled motorcycles and tramadol meant for terrorists and cleared them by Chief Egungbohun. None of such things ever happened. Soyombo said Three 2024 Toyota Land Cruisers and Four White Coaster Buses were smuggled into Lagos by Chief Egungbohun. At that particular time, the victim was in Abuja. The Sunday Ibadan he said allegedly smuggled guns and bullets wrapped like turkey for movement to the East was in London at the material time.

*Participant in Prevarication:* Mr Soyombo came up with his second title cum defensive term during the Channel Television interview when he said, he “PARTICIPATED” in the smuggling and that Jide who gave him information was talking to a “fellow smuggler”. Unlike Elizabeth Cochran Seaman (Nellie Bly being her pen name) the inventor of investigative journalism, who would always substantiate her claims, Mr Soyombo said, he didn’t need to provide any evidences. The truth is that to succeed in investigative journalism, "receipts, documents, photos, videos" and even notes are essential. So, whether he participated in the smuggling or not, whether Jide spoke with a fellow smuggler or not, it's disturbing that a multi-award winning journalist couldn't show Nigerians the receipt of his transaction? When participated in any transaction, evidence of participation is obtainable. He, however, coined the third defensive term when he said his reports were revelations.

*Revelation by FIJ Fisayo Soyombo:* The popular REVELATION (apokalypsis) we know was written at the Island of Patmos and completed sometimes in 96 BCE by John, probably “the Apostle”. This Book of Revelation was more of prophetic visions, factual and its substances are verifiable for people of Christ’s faith. An instance could be found in Chapter 2:8 New International Version (NIV) where Jesus Christ was coded as the First and the Last. Should the statement portents ambiguity to anyone of little faith, based on the premise that all Christians accept as evidential proof the foundational doctrine of the resurrection of their Lord and Saviour, John added, "who died and came to life again". Unlike FIJ Fisayo Soyombo who in one of his revelations revealed that Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun smuggled Three 2024 Toyota Land Cruisers and Four White Coaster Buses into Lagos, without a single evidential link to his target; be it photograph or video. Investigative journalism is about digging out concealed truth that are readily evidential.

*The Contradictory Statement:*
Another writer on Jayson Blair, Ed Caesar of Independent in his feature titled, “Jayson Blair: The man who fooled America'', says that the "ability to seem one thing and be another is why most descriptions of Blair are two word terms, of which "liar Emeritus" and "serial fabulist" are only the most memorable. To pin down this jumble of contradictions to a single signifier is rather to miss the point of Jayson Blair. But there is a word, which the British don't use, that just about does it: storied. It means mythic, fabled - a product, and producer of stories. . . . Jayson Blair is storied. Somewhere in his development, Blair lost sight of the connection between facts and words, and it debilitates him still", Ceaser stated.

The contradictory nature of FIJ Fisayo Soyombo’s report put him in the same category with Jayson Blair. If truly the Nigeria Customs officers were not functional as he alleged that “Jide succeeded without the faintest security resistance, why did he need to move his contraband through bush path? Meanwhile, he contradicted himself further when he said, “Some Customs officers had raided a smuggling safe house in Oja-Odan, *trucking away tons of seized goods.* Alaba feared we could be *victims of the next raid. I give them the nod to relocate the bags to Ifo and resell them at a slight loss”.

In view of the facts obtainable as enumerated in this study, it appears that Mr. Fisayo Soyombo may never have engaged in any investigative journalism from which he published the “Undercover as Smuggler”, rather, he had relied heavily on hearsay as been peddled by illiterate rumour mongers (FIJ’s informants) who lack the basic knowledge of statutory partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Licensed Freight Clearing & Forwarders, to concoct and churn out lies and fake news as its investigative report, portraying the top echelon of Nigeria Customs Service and Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun-a leading stakeholder in the border community-as smugglers.

The import of this study is to establish the substance of the FIJ report but it failed the test of accuracy; the report was based (like Mr Jayson Blair's reports) on fabricated comments, concocted scenes, lifted material from other newspapers, selected details from still and moving pictures as well as insertion of contradictory statements.

*Recommendation:*
While we are not condemning his findings about other people, the fact that all his reports about Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun (IBD Dende) failed the integrity test (inaccurate) tells volume about the credibility of his other investigative reports. Hence, this undoubtedly calls for revision of FIJ investigative reports, Mr Fisayo Soyombo’s findings in particular. If under the guise of freedom of information or investigative journalism, anybody can wake up and begin to tarnish the enviable image of law-abiding individuals, Nigeria can never be fine for it.
While self-censorship remains the best option for the media, going by this trend, it’s high time the Nigeria Press Council (NPC) as a matter of urgency be given a complete set of functional teeth (not as a toothless dog) to check erring journalists/reporters as a way of maintaining credibility of the media space in Nigeria.

**CODE OF ETHICS:* 2. Accuracy and Fairness: (ii.) A journalist should refrain from publishing inaccurate and misleading information. Where such information has been in advertently published, prompt correction should be made. A journalist must hold the reply as a cardinal rule of practice. (iii.) In the course of his duties, a journalist should strive to separate facts from conjecture and comment.

Abiodun congratulates Tobi Amusan on Jamaical invitational triumph

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has congratulated the World record holder, Tobi Amusan, for emerging as the fastest woman in the women’s 100m hurdles this year after running a blistering 12.40s to win the first Jamaica Athletics Invitational in Kingston.

Amusan won the race ahead of Jamaican and World Champion, Danielle Williams.

Abiodun, in a congratulatory message, described Amusan as a woman of strong will and character, adding that the athlete has made Ogun State and Nigeria proud for her exceptional talent and skill.

"On behalf of the government and the good people of Ogun State, I heartily congratulate our illustrious daughter, Tobi Amusan, as she emerged as the fastest woman in the women’s 100m hurdles for the year 2024, after running a blistering 12.40s to win the first Jamaica Athletics Invitational in Kingston.

"Winning the race ahead of Jamaican and world champion, Danielle Williams clearly x-rayed her tenacious tendency and strong will for optimal performance.

"We are indeed proud of her as a worthy ambassador and priceless export from our dear State," the governor averred.

You're an exemplary leader, Abiodun greets Fasoranti at 98

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has described the leader of Afenifere, the Yoruba socio-political group as a man of exemplary character and wisdom.

Prince Abiodun, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Lekan Adeniran, to mark the 98 birthday of the Afenifere leader, said Pa Fasoranti exemplifies leadership with responsibility both in public service and after retirement.

He noted that the Afenifere leader has an unblemished record while in public service, while he has dedicated his life to championing the cause of the Yoruba people and advocating for a better Nigeria.

The governor recalled Chief Fasoranti's tireless efforts in promoting peace, progress, and development in the country and his unwavering dedication to the ideals of democracy and good governance.

"Throughout his journey, Chief Fasoranti has exemplified wisdom, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the principles of justice, equity, and unity. His remarkable leadership has inspired generations, leaving an indelible mark on our nation's history.

"As we commemorate Chief Reuben Fasoranti's 98th birthday, let us reflect on his immense contributions and honour his legacy, which will forever remain an indelible mark in the annals of our nation," the governor said.

Dr. Kazeem Olayimika Salaam; OAU Accounting Graduates in the UK, Europe and Asia Celebrate a thought leader of impeccable character

The alumni group of Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife based in the UK, Europe, Asia and Middle East celebrate its regional coordinator, Dr Alhaji Kazeem Olayimika Salaam (popularly called Salaam K O by all) as he celebrates another year of remarkable life.

In the statement released by the group signed by the global welfare officer and his regional counterpart, the group reiterated Dr Salaam’s exceptional contributions to the association and Nigeria community in the UK in general, saying his dedication to philanthropy and leadership has touched countless lives, inspiring hope and positive change wherever he finds himself.

"Your unwavering commitment to making the world a better place serves as a guiding light for us all. Through your tireless efforts, you've shown us the true meaning of accountability and transparency, compassion, generosity, and selflessness. We sincerely hope to see you reshaping our fatherland’s politics with your wisdom, exemplary leadership style and impeccable character.

"Dr Salaam is not just a financial expert; he is a visionary leader with a passion for driving positive change in the society. He possesses the foresight to anticipate emerging trends, identify opportunities for innovation, and develop strategic initiatives that has been beneficial to the association and our dear country as a whole. Additionally, he believes in using his expertise to address socio-economic challenges, promote ethical governance, and advocate for policies that foster economic growth and prosperity for all. May this birthday be filled with joy, laughter, and all the happiness our dear Dr. Salaam.

Going by the import of the above felicitation, it is therefore, imperative to dissect the conceptualization of leadership by the former Prime Minister of Philippines, Gloria Aroyo, who explicitly posited that " The litmus test of a good leader is ability to be at the fore-front leading, at the middle inspiring and at the back defending the superior interests of his followers".

This postulation of the 'Iron Lady' alongside the felicitation implicitly define Dr. Salam in all ramifications, ranging from his humility and receptive inclination and coupled with his sense of selflessness and alacrity to serve humanity.

He has exhibited high degree of patriotism as an indigene of Kwara and citizen of Nigeria in diaspora, representing his lovely State and country well. Dr. Kazeem Olayimika Salaam has always expressed his conviction about good governance and quality leadership.

A highly accomplished Chartered Accountant and PhD holder in Finance, with an impactful and meritorious career spanning over 20 years, both in the corporate and academic realms, Dr. Salaam has proven to be a trusted advisor, a strategic thinker, and a catalyst for positive change for multinationals across the globe. He combines a unique blend of analytical rigour, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to social change to every endeavour both as a community leader and as a captain of industry.

As a Chartered Accountant, . Salaam possesses a wealth of experience in financial management, accounting principles, regulatory compliance, strategy implementation as well as process re-engineering. He has a proven track record in Accounting & Financial Controlling, Asset Valuation, Business Analysis & Strategy formulation; Data Analysis & Data Management, Product Development, Process Improvement and Re-engineering, Financial Risk Reporting including Credit Risk, Market Risk and Operational Risk; Internal and External Audit; Capacity Management & Project Management, Retail Banking (Digital and Open Banking Solutions), Trade Finance, Fund Management, Oil & Gas, Road & Transport Management to mention a few.

Dr Salaam’s direct technology experience spans enterprise architecture, telecommunications networks, API management, operating systems, database management systems, network management systems, application development and support, technology forensics, business continuity, and operations processes.

As a Ph.D. holder in Finance, Dr. Salaam possesses deep insights into financial theory, quantitative analysis, and investment strategies. His research contributions have expanded the boundaries of knowledge in finance and provided valuable insights into complex financial phenomena. He has proven experience in research and teaching MBA students at top universities across the globe. His publications focused on Finance, Lending and Financial Market Supervision.

With a BSc. Accounting from the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife; MBA – Financial Services (London), and a PhD in Finance. His professional certifications include FCCA, FFA, FIMC, FHEA to mention a few.

Based currently in the United Kingdom, he is originally from Omu-Aran, the headquarter of Irepodun local government area of Kwara State. He is currently the Secretary General of the Kwara State Association in the UK (KWASANG), and an Advisory Board member of the Central Association of Nigerians in the UK (CANUK).

Indeed Kwara and Nigeria at large is in dire need of this cerebral and enigmatic personality of impeccable character and pedigree.

As he celebrates his birthday on Monday, 13th May, 2024, May Allah continue to increase his wisdom and knowledge in sound health and functional mind.

*Defamation: Ogun Licensed Customs Agent, Egungbohun sues FIJ, Arise TV, Soyombo, as Court gives 30-day ultimatum*
A High Court in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has commanded the appearance of Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), Arise (TV) Media Group and Fisayo Soyombo, within 30 days, as defendants in a lawsuit filed by an Ogun State born Customs Licensed Agent, Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun.
In the writ of summons number: G/2286/24 dated 3rd May, 2024, Chief Egungbohun popularly referred to as IBD Dende institutes the legal action against the trio for assassination of his personality through numerous tweets on their “X” handles as well as broadcast on the Arise Television’s special programme tagged, “The Morning Show” as aired on 24th of February, 2024.
Egungbohun seeks the Order of the FCT Court for retraction of the libelous statements and tendering of public apology by each of the Defendants, to be published by the 1st and 2nd Defendants on their X handles @fisayosoyombo and @fijnigeria and on the 2nd Defendant’s blog fij.ng, and to be published/broadcasted by all the Defendants in the 3rd Defendant’s Television programme “THE MORNING SHOW”.
He also seeks the Court for restraining the Defendants from any further defamatory publications (including the use of innuendos) on their X handles, website, TV programmes or any other means of publication.
Chief Egungbohun asks the defendants to pay as general damages of a sum of ₦5,000,000,000.00 (Five Billion Naira) and the sum of ₦10,000,000, 000.00 (Ten Million Naira) being the cost of instituting (the) Suit”.

Ogun: How governor stimulates prosperity through creativity

By Olaniyi Ajibola

When the leadership of the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) concluded on the choice of Ogun State as the venue of their maiden week, and as well picked the Governor of the Gateway State, Prince Dapo Abiodun as the Patron of the Institute, little did they know that their resolutions were the best in content and in context.

The President of the Institute, Dr Ike Neliaku, while delivering his speech at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto- Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, had informed the audience that one of the reasons behind the choice of Ogun State for the event was being the State of many firsts, ranging from civilization to education, politics, commerce and industry and many more, aside the fact that the Governor of the State in the last five years have provided exemplary leadership that directly touched the lives of his people.

He eloquently eulogised Abiodun for turning around the fortunes of the state through different initiatives, adding that the Institute over the past two weeks have been promoting the remarkable achievements of Abiodun-led administration in the State on their websites, which Neliaku described as a way of putting Ogun State on the global map.

In truth and indeed, Governor Dapo Abiodun, through genuine intention and clear vison to lead his people to the desired heights, as envisaged by the founding fathers of the State adopted distinct style of governance, in total departure from the old order of deception and political chicanery of the past administration, which regrettably impoverished the people and put the State in reverse gear of development until Abiodun came into the saddle in 2019.

Unarguably, Abiodun must have stumbled and carefully pondered on the inspiring postulation of the 35th American President, J.F. Kennedy, who submitted that: "Those who refused to participate in the politics of their environment end up being governed by their inferiors", hence his unrelenting and consistent efforts towards the gubernatorial seat, amid suffocating and hostile political atmosphere.

This was coincidentally corroborated by one of the participants at the event on Tuesday, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, the Director General of National Orientation Agency, who represented the Minister of Information and National Orientation. Issa-Onilu, one time National Publicity Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) recounted how at different occasions he had travelled with Dapo Abiodun from Lagos to Abuja during the governorship struggle in 2019.

"As Publicity Secretary of APC at the time, I have had the reasons to travel with His Excellency severally to Abuja during the 2019 governorship election, and each time we travelled, he kept on saying when I get there; when I get there; I told myself, does this man understands what it takes to be a Governor. Today, I am very happy that the man has performed exceptionally well, he did not disappoint us".

Such testimonies abound about the Prince of Iperu-Remo, the man who has tremendously brought a deep knowledge of financial management and coordination of the private sector to bear in the administration of the State, as he has constantly described himself as the Chief Marketer of the State.

In the first instance, one will wonder how a Chief Executive of a State suddenly became a Chief Marketer and of which product in particular?

"Ogun State is the Gateway to Nigeria’s prosperity, the industrial capital of Nigeria, and the educational capital of this nation. On assumption of office and in appreciation of our competitive and comparative advantages, we were very clear about our vision, which is to provide good and qualitative governance whilst creating an enabling environment for public private
partnership, which is fundamental to economic growth and individual prosperity of our residents.

"We realized this can only be achieved through our “Building our future” together mantra and our ISEYA development pillar where I stands for Infrastructure , S for Social Welfare and Wellbeing, E for Education and Human Development, Y for Youth Empowerment and A for Agriculture and Food Security; we have achieved significant milestones, covering substantial grounds across the state.

"We have prioritized the provision of the required infrastructure, by implementing our multimodal infrastructure policy in appreciation of the importance of the need to facilitate people to live, work and play in Ogun state with ease and utmost comfort. Some of you either came by road or rail and I am sure your experience was nothing but pleasant . That is possible because we deliberately closed our eyes on whether a road is a federal road or state owned.

" To date, we have constructed over 500 km of roads. Very soon, you will be coming here by air, this week, our airport will be approved for non scheduled flights, meaning that Chatererd flights can file their flight plans and land at our gateway international airport and in another 2 weeks or less we will receive formal approval for scheduled commercial flights.

"I was sharing at the breakfast with private sector CEOs earlier that we will soon be establishing the Kajola dry container Port.
I will not miss an opportunity to share with you that in the last 5 years, we have been very deliberate and intentional about strengthening law enforcement and provision of security by supporting our law enforcement architecture with funding, logistics and technology, which has today earned us the safest state in Nigeria, as there can not be socio economic development in the atmosphere of insecurity.

"We will continue to be proactive in implementing policies and initiatives to increase the ranking of Ogun State in the ease of doing business index, we remain the industrial capital of Nigeria with over 6000 industries and the investors destination of choice , the state with the most improved IGR, being no 3 heading to no 2, and the fastest growing economy in Nigeria.

"In the last 5 years, we have built over 4000 affordable homes and still building as we target 10,000 homes by 2027, we have rebuilt over 1000 schools and over 100 PHCs. Our commitment to energy transition and cushioning the effects of the petrol subsidy removal is clearly evident. We were the first state in Nigeria to deploy compressed natural gas (CNG) fueled buses, which has resulted in reduced transport fares .

"We are prioritizing ICT & digital economy and have launched and commenced the 5,000 km fibre optic cable, Ogun Digital Economy Infrastructure Project, which will provide digital internet access across the length and breadth of the state.We are repositioning our land administration and management by digitalizing our Certificate of Ownership issuance process. In the last three months, over 7,000 beneficiaries were issued our new 1-page double-sided C of Os.

"Our efforts have not gone unnoticed , as we bagged the Forbes Best of Africa award in industrial revolution and just to add to our list of firsts as mentioned earlier, permit me to add that we are the education capital of Nigeria the no 1 in cassava production, no 1 in the production of poultry, no 1 in non oil revenue and of course the religious capital of Nigeria", Ogun Chief Marketer unambiguously submitted at the NIPR's maiden week.

Aside these indelible and fantastic accomplishments of his administration, perhaps, the greatest creativity the Governor has displayed was the manner he had revived the hitherto dying ADIRE market in Abeokuta, the traditional tie and dye business of the aboriginal Egba people.

At the time Abiodun resumed as Governor of Ogun State and in his painstaking investigation on how the microeconomic layer of the State could be strengthened to stimulate prosperity among the local populace, findings revealed that the influx of imported ADIRE fabrics from China, with low quality but lower prices have adversely affected the primordial ADIRE market, driving traders in droves out of the business.

As sensitive and proactive State Executive that he is, Governor Abiodun immediately moved into action and formulated a policy where every employee of government must at least put on the ADIRE attire once in a week with strict directive to buy only the local products.

Surprisingly, the ADIRE market immediately came back to life, as the policy injected a whopping 70,000 new customers into the business, raising demand higher than even the present quantity of supply, with resultant boom for the traders.

Obviously, responsible and responsive leadership goes beyond rhetorics and propaganda, it is evidently what Prince Dapo Abiodun is doing in the Gateway State.

All hail the Chief Marketer of Ogun State, Omooba Dapo Abiodun, CON.

Olaniyi Ajibola, writes from Abeokuta.

NANS Cautions Members On Blackmail, Dirty Politics

- Says Minister Is On Top Of The Situation

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has cautioned its members nationwide on the blackmail and calls by some section of the national body on the sack of the Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu.

In a statement made available to journalists in Abuja, Dist. Senator Ekundina Segun Elvis,
President of the Senate (NANS), also called for the arrest of a self acclaimed NANS Leader, Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, whom he described as an impostor.

Ekundina described the statement credited to Akinteye as subtle blackmail and a propaganda to discredit the Minister, who is working assiduously on the mandate of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to sanitise, make the power sector more efficient and guarantee regular electricity supply to Nigerians.

He said the calls for the removal of both Adelabu and the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, is misguided at this crucial time when both are consistently providing solutions and keeping Nigerians updated about their vision for sustainable growth in both sectors critical to the development of the country.

The NANS Senate President said, "The press release in question targets two crucial aspects of our nation's development: the hike in petrol price and electricity instability. It is interesting to note that the attack is directed solely at the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) regarding the petrol price hike, while the Ministers of State for Petroleum Resources, who oversees both oil and gas, is conspicuously ignored. This biased approach clearly suggests a hidden agenda and raises questions about the true motives behind this press release.

"Turning to the issue of electricity, it is disheartening to see the Honorable Minister of Power being attacked unjustly. Chief Bayo Adelabu has taken the time to address the nation on multiple occasions, explaining in great detail the complexities surrounding the instability of electricity in our country. He has outlined the steps being taken to resolve these issues, including the stages of implementation, debt repayment, and addressing the existing gaps.

"His explanations have been comprehensive, offering hope that the electricity situation will improve in due course.

"It is evident that this press release is sponsored by the opposition and individuals seeking to tarnish the image of Chief Bayo Adelabu. The history of the self-acclaimed NANS leader, Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, known for attacking personalities for financial gains, raises serious concerns about the credibility and authenticity of this press release.

"A typical example was his self demeaning and blackmail press he released to attack the DG of the National Orientation Agency (NOA). It is clear that the intention here is not to address the issues at hand but to damage the reputation of the Honorable Minister and his contributions to the development of our nation and the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.

"We issue a stern warning to the writer of this attacking press release and their co-sponsors. While the self-acclaimed NANS leader's studentship is subject to investigation, we call upon the public to stand against misinformation and propaganda. We urge the security agencies to be vigilant and prevent any illegal gatherings disguised as protests, as they are undoubtedly sponsored by the opposition to disrupt the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR.

"We also call upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to be aware of these miscreants who falsely claim to be student leaders. Their sole objective is to attack and destroy the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration. However, we want to assure the public, the student community, and the youth that we are closely monitoring these developments.

"We firmly believe that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR will succeed in his endeavors, and no amount of propaganda will derail the progress we are making as a nation.

"This press release is nothing more than a funded propaganda campaign aimed at defaming Chief Bayo Adelabu, the Honorable Minister of Power. We have exposed the hidden motives and called for action against those responsible for disseminating such misleading information. We remain committed to ensuring the truth prevails and that the Nigerian people are not swayed by baseless attacks," Ekundina stated.

BEYOND THE LIES: THE GIANT STRIDES AND TRANSFORMATIVE INITIATVES INTRODUCED BY DR. TINUADE SANDA, AS MD/CEO OF EKO ELECTRICITY DISTRIBUTION COMPANY (EKEDC)

Sequence of Performance Overview and Operational Achievements Upon Assuming Office in 2022:

When I became MD/CEO in 2022, EKEDC faced significant challenges, including ATC&C losses at 29.87% and a Collection Efficiency (CE) of 82.69%. However, through my strategic initiatives and profound team spirit, I swiftly moved with my proactive and efficient team members to change the ugly narratives with resultant remarkable progress.

As of March 2024, our ATC&C losses have reduced to 1%, and our CE has improved to 99.25%. This turnaround has been accompanied by impressive operational metrics, with Energy Delivered reaching 261,785,052.50kwh and Energy billed at 236,050,490.21kwh. Under my stewardship, EKEDC achieved its highest-ever monthly collection of N17.1 billion, highlighting our financial acumen and strategic vision.


It is noteworthy that these achievements were recorded without the need for a tariff increase. Our focus on operational efficiency led to the lowest-ever energy leakage blocked (ATC&C) losses, showcasing our commitment to excellence. The launch of the fast-delivery mass metering program (Mobile MAP Initiative), resulting in the delivery of over 80,832 meters, demonstrates our dedication to enhancing customer service and satisfaction.

Despite array of challenges I met upon assumption of office, one of my first decisive and impactful actions as MD/CEO was to increase staff salary by 25%, the first of its kind in the last 10 years of EKEDC, as we consistently maintained operational expenditure and also increased fleet vehicles by 150 to improve response time efficiency.

It may interest the general public to know that I met humongous loans which were already bad debt for the company upon my assumption of office, which I conscientiously paid back, including CBN loans that were secured for capital projects that were later abandoned, which include: CBN Meter loan, totalling : N4,693,706,837.72, CBN Ramp Up Loan totalling : N29,525,442,959.40 and
CBN Capex loan, totaling : N14,487,447,715.
Unfortunately, all the loans were of no economic value to the company, especially the billions wasted on substandard meters that generated no revenue, yet we forged ahead with determination and resilience.

In line with my vision for distinct corporate branding with local content, I devised a robust mechanism for engagement, which x-rayed my commitment to corporate leadership and growth for all stakeholders. This included realigning customer and community engagement strategies for enhanced brand positioning and service delivery, and developing an inclusive, impactful, and sustainable Corporate Social Responsibility plan.

These initiatives were part of our innovation-based integrated reform plan, which has resulted in unparalleled results and a flurry of activities aimed at driving positive change. Our proactive approach was further pronounced by the decentralization of districts, which has effectively managed the surge of new customers and optimized service delivery. Our strategic foresight is also evident in securing 150 transformers to address overloaded transformers and ensuring the reliability of power supply.

Furthermore, our commitment to data protection and security is underscored by EKEDC's attainment of ISO 27001 certification. Through partnerships and collaborations with VI Power; we enhanced supply to customers on the Island, demonstrating our commitment to meeting customer needs. Our strategic investments in infrastructure, such as the purchase of Statistical Meters to monitor all existing feeders, have significantly reduced losses and improved operational efficiency. By introducing Monthly Incentives and implementing an upward review of staff remuneration, I have not only motivated my team but also recognized their pivotal role in EKEDC's success. Despite a challenging operating environment, our dedication to customer service is evident in the 99.2% complaint resolution rate year-to-date in 2024, showcasing my commitment to customer satisfaction.

I came to EKEDC with clear mindset and leadership ideology embedded in zero tolerance for mediocrity, corruption and deficiency; and a pursuit of excellence unflinchingly set the tone for my leadership. Understanding that ideas alone are not enough in a corporate setting, I emphasized the importance of effective communication among all stakeholders, to ensure complete alignment with our vision.

Under my leadership as the MD/CEO of EKEDC, we have consistently met our obligations to regulators. This is evident in the NERC report for Q3, 2023, which ranks EKEDC as 1st in market remittance for that quarter, and 3rd in Q2 of 2023.
For my milestones achievement with EKEDC, I have received numerous awards and recognition from prestigious institutions. Recently, I was honoured with The Peak Performer CEO Of the Year (2023) award and recognized by Vanguard as the Energy Icon of the Year. I have also been acknowledged by the Nigeria House of Dream Parliament as the most proactive female personality in the power sector of Nigeria (2023). Additionally, I currently serve as a member of the power committee set up by the Presidency.

Over the years, I have received several other prestigious awards, including the USAID Certificate of Achievement as a Valued Partner of The USAID Engendering Industries Intensive Program since 2015, the NECA 2021 Employers Excellence Award Winner in the Electricity Distribution Sector (2022), the AFRISAFE CEO Of the Year (2022), the African Prize for Leadership Excellence: Power Personality Leadership Prize Winner of The Year (2017), and the Eko Electricity Distribution Company MD/CEO Executive Award for being "on time-every time" (2018). These accolades reflect my commitment to excellence, accountability and innovation in the power sector.

However, I was taken aback by the recent publication from Sahara Reporters, an online media platform and rumours making the rounds of termination of my appointment due to poor performance; I wish to clarify that I have not received any official communication regarding such claims. On the contrary, I have consistently received accolades from the board members, highlighting our team's commendable performance.

For instance, on March 6, 2024, I received commendations from the Director of Human Resources, Tunji Owolafe, after sending a correspondence titled "Re: Disco Remittance Order February 2024," which showcased EKEDC's performance in meeting market obligations. Dr. Tunji Owolafe stated, "Dear MD, this is very good news, congratulations and well done to you and your team." Similar accolades were received on December 5, 2023, and December 6, 2023, from Dr. Tunji Owolafe and the Board Chairman, Dere Otubu, respectively. Dere Otubu's message read, "Congratulations to you and your team for the good performance in the month of November." Copies of emails corroborating those commendations are available as supporting evidence.

As a chartered accountant, I value working with facts and figures, and I believe that ethical journalism should be based on the principles of truth, obectivity and fairnes, rather than fallacies that are solely based on rumours and propaganda.

It should be known to all stakeholders that this situation has taken a surprising turn. What began as an investigation and the implementation of sanctions against the CLO, who was accused of ghost workers scandal has now turned into cyberbullying and slanderous attacks against me. I was singled out for dismissal, seemingly as an act of victimization, all because I refused to participate in covering up fraudulent activities. Rather than addressing the main issue, there is an attempt to divert attention by grasping at straws. However, people can see through these antics and machinations. The individual who committed the crime is still a staff member, while the innocent party is being punished for exposing an infraction of that magnitude, imagining keeping ghost workers in a corporate setting like EKEDC.

To this end, I have been inundated with calls from across the world in the last 48 hours concerning this unfortunate scenario, hence, the necessity to set the record straight and put the whole issue in proper perspective against the lies and propaganda of gang of fraudsters and obscurantists who are out to smear my personality and professional reputation, for upholding the sanctity and integrity of the organization and my efforts towards entrenching sanity and corporate governance.

Initially, I had chosen not to address these matters publicly, given that they are currently a subject of litigation, however, it has become necessary to do so in order to expose the inherent falsehoods, conspiracy and resultant victimization.

This very issue, upon whiich I have been victimized and maligned started in November 2023, when I received a whistleblower report alleging ghost worker activities perpetrated by Mrs. Wola Joseph-Condotti, the Chief Legal Officer of EKEDC. Upon receiving this report, I promptly reported the matter to the Board for thorough investigation. Subsequently, the Board's handling of the ghost worker case came under scrutiny by the Trade Union within the organization, which closely monitored the situation and subsequently expressed concerns.

Their observations and concerns about the possibility of getting justice in the case were later escalated and ultimately drew the attention of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

In response, NERC issued a directive dated 21st March 2024 (see Appendix A), stipulating that only individuals directly involved in the ghost worker activities should be recalled by WPG for further investigation. Unfortunately, a faction of the Board, led by the Chairman, Mr. Dere Otubu, chose to misinterpret and deliberately misrepresented the import of NERC’s directive, thereby ordering the recall of all management staff instead. Despite NERC issuing a new directive dated 27th March 2024 (see Appendix B) to recall only those involved in the ghost worker activities, this faction of the Board failed to comply with the further clarification by NERC, leading to further confusion.

To seek a proper interpretation of the directives and to address the seeming confusion, the matter was brought before the court. I was therefore, astonished and shocked to have read of my dismissal on different social media platforms, while the case is still before the court of competent jurisdiction, for the purpose of proper interpretation of the NERC's directive.

This action, by implication, not only violates my fundamental human rights but also undermines the sanctity of corporate governance and that of the board, as well as regulatory process. It is a clear case of victimization, oppression and subjudice.

I want to unequivocally state that I have diligently and efficiently served the organisation with utmost integrity, and I have never engaged in any wrongdoing; rather, I have assiduously worked to sanitize the system for optimal productivity and quality service delivery, including the alleged ghost worker activities, which I promptly acted upon by reporting the case to the board immediately I got the whistleblower's report, in my capacity as the MD/CEO.

Without mincing words, I have committedly and conscientiously worked to enhance the assets and net worth of our stakeholders since my assumption of office in 2022, with high degree of transparency, integrity, and fairness in all my dealings, and I have consistently acted in the best interests of EKEDC and its stakeholders.

To this end, I hereby, passionately urge all stakeholders and well-meaning Nigerians to join me in seeking for the truth, justice and fairness, against the ongoing conspiracy to subvert the truth and oppress the weak.

Obviously, your understanding and support are essentially crucial in this trying moment, to navigate this turbulent period with me.

Thank you for your attention and continued support.

E-signed

Dr. Tinuade Sanda

Managing Director/CEO

Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC)

UNMASKING LIES; EXPOSING SMEAR CAMPAIGN AGAINST DR. TINUADE SANDA

In her evaluation and submission on quality leadership and administrative skills, the former Prime Minister of Philippines, Gloria Aroyo, posited that:"The greatest test of a leader is ability to be at the fore-front leading with vision; at the middle inspiring with passion; and at the back defending with courage".

The above submission of the "Iron Lady" of Philippines, undoubtedly defines Dr. Tinuade Sanda, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC).

Transforming the Eko Electricity Distribution Company with vision and inspiring productivity and quality delivery with passion, Dr. Sanda has also defended the integrity and sanctity of the company with courage; although, with huge price of character assassination and smear campaign.

Since she came into the saddle in 2022, the woman of high moral values and energy has taken EKEDC to an enviable heights, which automatically elicited profound applause from critical stakeholders across Nigeria, including the Federal Government and various reputable organisations such as VANGUARD and AFRISAFE among others.

Driven by excellence and aggressive consciousness for speedy growth, she has orchestrated a remarkable increase in monthly collections, reaching an impressive 17.1 billion Naira. Her strategic reforms, including the reduction of ATC AND C to 1%, have not only curbed electricity leakages but also boosted operational efficiency for EKEDC.

However, despite these successes, Dr. Sanda has been the target of dangerous attacks and criticisms from certain divisive elements within EKEDC, aimed at tarnishing her reputation and diverting attention from her laudable achievements, especially the humongous fraud she uncovered about ghost workers and payment of salaries to exited staff, which she reported accordingly.

The latest attacks on her personality is the satanic and unfounded claims about her qualifications, which practically defies logic and common sense; it is nothing but blantant lies of unimaginable magnitude, compelling one to doubt the sanity of the paddlers.

Puttung the record straight, Dr. Sanda's educational background is incontrovertible and impressive, with degrees from renowned institutions across the world. She completed her undergraduate studies in Accounting with second class upper honours at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife. Subsequently, she pursued her MBA in Strategy at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh and received certifications from Harvard Business School, Executive Education in “Finance in Senior Executives” in 2015 and “Management Essentials” in 2023.

Furthermore, the contradictory assertion that Dr. Sanda studied at Harvard Business School while her certificate explicitly indicates Harvard Business School, Executive Education, exposes mischief of highest order, it reveals a deliberate and desperate attempt to smear her reputation by her traducers.

These peddlers of falsehood against Dr. Tinuade Sanda know quite well the difference between Harvard Business School, Executive Education, which offers professional development programs, and Harvard Business School, a renowned academic institution where Postgraduate degrees are conferred, since a simple email or website verification with these institutions would confirm the veracity of her academic achievements.

Additionally, her graduation photographs, highlighting these accomplishments are conspiciously displayed on her page @Tinuade_Sanda on Instagram, dating back to the times when she acquired these degrees, providing further credence and refuting any claims suggesting otherwise.

Dr. Tinuade Sanda’s PhD was conferred in 2020 by the University of Management Science and Technology, Republic of Benin, before the concerns regarding accreditation by the National Universities Commission emerged in 2023, an issue faced by some other international institutions including Volta University College, Volta region Ghana, Columbus University, UK, among others. With Dr. Sanda receiving her doctorate in 2020, two years before her appointment as Managing Director in 2022, it is evident that her academic qualifications were attained independently of her professional advancement. It is also imperative to know that a Ph.D. was not a prerequisite for her MD position, rendering any speculation about the desperation for a Ph.D. totally senseless.

The timeline clearly demonstrates that her academic achievements were obtained legitimately and independently of her career advancements. These facts show the lack of credibility and decisively counters any unfounded allegations regarding the authenticity of her certificates.

Furthermore, Dr. Tinuade, a Fellow of ICAN, one of the most prestigious institutions in her field, is the President of the Old Students Association of Accounting, class of 2001 of the Obafemi Awolowo University Ile Ife, demonstrating her strong affiliation and connection to her alma mater. Her career is well-documented, including her tenure at organizations such as, Chartered Bank that later merged with Stanbic IBTC and Access Bank, prior to joining WPG and being seconded to EKEDC. Each of these firms conducted thorough investigations before appointing her at various times.

To this end, the less cognitive and illogical narratives of fifth columnists, who are hell bent to defame the towering antecedents and pedigree of Dr. Tinuade Sanda because of her conviction to be open, just and transparent have clearly failed, as the Managing Director of Eko Electricity Distribution Company remains resolute and standing tall against every shenanigan of bunch of criminals within.

Obviously, these cowardly acts of cyberbullying and personal attacks, orchestrated to distract the general public from her sterling achievements have been unmasked and exposed, it must now be condemned by all well-meaning Nigerians and stakeholders in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI).

Dr. Tinuade’s dedication to EKEDC is unwavering, unprecedented and exceptional; her leadership style encompasses integrity, transparency and accountability as organisational standards, while she is being guided by principles of equity and probity as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Eko Electricity Distribution Company.

We, therefore, celebrate an amazon of inestimable value, a pride of womanhood and an exemplary figure for the girl-child, Dr. Tinuade Sanda, as she continues to bring her transformative power of ethical leadership to bear in the management of men and resources at EKEDC, for the benefit and good of all Nigerians.

E-signed

Comrade Sulaimon Suberu (National Coordinator)

For: Advocacy for Advancement of Peace &Harmony in Africa Initiative (ADAPHAI)

REGULATORY COMMISSION MUST WAKEUP FROM SLUMBER TO RESCUE EKEDC FROM THE SHACKLES OF DERE OTUBU

Our organisation, a leading Civil Society group in Nigeria with mandate for peace advocacy and propagation of non-violent culture is using this medium to call on relevant authorities, especially the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission as well as security agencies to quickly come to the aid of Eko Electricity Distribution Company and salvage the company from the manacles of its Chairman, Mr Dere Otubu, who have been leading a gang of dissidents in the company for selfish purposes.

Putting the record straight, Mr Otubu has been aiding and abetting fraudulent activities in the company to the tune of billions of naira through the use of ghost workers for the past three years as well as masterminding payment of salaries to exited staff coupled with several cases of misappropriation of funds and corporate theft, which compelled a whistle blower to raise alarm of this monumental fraud. Unfortunately, the whistle blower, who was a staff of the company was threatened and intimidated, forcing him to run out of the country with his family.

Mr Otubu was behind the campaign of calumny against the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the company, Dr. Tinuade Sanda, who have proven herself to be an upright leader and a reformer, by exposing the issue of ghost workers in the company after thorough and painstaking investigations.

Another heinous act committed by Otubu is deliberate misrepresentation of the directives of Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, where he gave a false information to the effect of removing Mrs Sanda and singlehandedly replaced her with his crony and collaborator, Mrs Rekhiat Momoh without the approval of the board.

It is very disheartening that in the desperate bid to continuing perpetrating his infraction and shenanigans in Eko Electricity Distribution Company, in utter connivance with certain members of Staff, the Chairman, Mr Otubu, deliberately manipulated the directives of Nigerian Electricity Distribution Company, and dangerously lied that Dr. Sanda, the Managing Director of the company who exposed the 36-month fraud should be removed.


More grevious of these illegalities as perpetrated by Otubu and revealed to our organization by one of the union members in the course of our investigation is that some of the recalled staff of EKEDC, who were supposedly recalled with Dr Sanda and who are cronies of the Chairman are still running the operations of the company, these exited staff are being used to process payments. It was reliably gathered from impeccable source that signatories to the company accounts are signing out funds from the operational account.

We further deduced that the Director/Chairman Legal &Regulatory Committee of the company, Mr Babor Egeregu, alongside other members of the board had severally cautioned Otubu on his recklessness and illegality, especially his desperate bid to provide cover for an embattled Chief Legal Officer of the company, Wola Joseph Condotti, who was recalled by her employer 'West Power &Gas Ltd, to pave way for thorough investigation after being accused of several infractions, but who Otubu asked to disregard the directive of her employer.

That Mr Otubu remains an instrument of discord in Eko Electricity Distribution Company is an understatement, he has embarked on aggressive campaign of calumny and cheap blackmail against the Managing Director, to the extent of accusing the upright and performing woman of falsifying her academic qualifications, all in the bid of getting her pound of flesh for exposing financial crime orchestrated by Otubu's gang in the company.

It is clearly verifiable that Dr. Tinuade Sanda has a resounding educational background. As a matter of fact, she has displayed uncommon brilliance at her undergraduate at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-ife, by coming out with Second Class Upper Division in the Department of Management Accounting, a feat very rare to achieve by a lady in such prestigious Ivory Tower.

Without mincing words, Tinu Sanda's further qualifications up till PhD level have been verifiable and authenticated in those reputable institutions she attended; so, calling a dog a bad name for the purpose of hanging it out of vengeance by Otubu and his co-travellers is completely out of place and criminal.


As it stands, Mr Dere Otubu has massacred corporate governance in Eko Electricity Distribution Company, and continues to drag the flourishing disco to the state of inertia at the peril of its shareholders, investors and thousands of staff, unless something is done fast to save the company.

Comprehensive interactions with the staff of the company regrettably indicate serious resentment against Otubu's style of leadership and pattern of administration, most especially the seeming injustice and connivance, which have seriously and adversely affected the morale of these disenchanted staff and resultantly reduced their productivity and commitment.

We, therefore, call on the appropriate Regulatory Commission in the Electricity industry to wake up from their slumber and checkmate Otubu's excesses before it is too late by removing him Immediately from that exalted position, as he lacks capacity, leadership acumen and requisite integrity to chair a sensitive organization of that size.

In the same vein, we are profoundly disappointed in the Bureau of Public Enterprises, the agency of government that represents the 40 per cent of the Federal Government's shares in EKEDC for its failure to live up to its statutory obligations and clear laxity in fulfilling its duty of representing Federal Government's interest.

It is utterly unbelievable that this agency of government can pretend as if all is well and dangerously keep mute when an individual is turning disco of that significance and prospects to a 'Banana Republic ' with utmost impunity.

E-signed

Comrade Sulaimon Suberu (National Coordinator)
For: Advocacy for Advancement of Peace &Harmony in Africa Initiative (ADAPHAI)

*We’ll make you self-sufficient – Rector assures 8,743 matriculated students, warns against wanton behavior*

Congratulating the newly 8,743 matriculated students of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, the Rector, Dr Mukail Akinde FCA, FCIT has assured them of ensuring that all the necessary skills that would make them self-sufficient would be duly imparted in them before their graduation from “the most sought-after citadel of higher learning in Nigeria.

“We are committed to ensuring that all the necessary skills that would make you a total and self-sufficient student are imparted in you before graduation.

Federal Polytechnic Ilaro“As the registration exercise is winding down, it is hoped that no less than 8,743 of you have been registered into our ND, HND and ODFel programmes”.

The Rector expressed appreciation for the interest shown by the parents and guardians of the students, adding that the confidence reposed in the School would continue to serve as a motivation to improve its service delivery.

“Let me also express my profound appreciation to all parents and guardians who have played significant roles in ensuring that their wards and children consider us their first choice. The confidence you have reposed in us for our moral and academic excellence and rating in the knowledge economy is most appreciated and would continue to motivate us to improve on our service delivery and consolidate on the endearing core values that underpin our brand, which has always positioned us as the most sought-after Polytechnic in Nigeria”.

Dr Akinde intimated the new students about the dos and don’ts of the School, urging them to always go through the institutional channel for reporting grievances instead of taking the law into their own hands.

“You are expected to be law-abiding, show reverence for constituted authority, and exhibit a high sense of discipline in your pursuit of academic success. You should not, in any way, be involved in any activity that will portray the institution in a bad light. The Polytechnic will not award its certificate to students found wanting in character, even when competent in learning. The rules governing discipline in the Polytechnic are well captured in the Student Handbook, which all of you are expected to be in possession of. The Federal Polytechnic Ilaro exhibits zero tolerance for students’ indiscipline of any kind. The following are some of the acts that are deemed as gross indiscipline, which you are enjoined to avoid: cultism, fellowship or joining unregistered association, clubs, fraudulent activities, making money by deceits, electronic and physical impersonation, phishing, scamming of all kinds, cheating during examinations; stealing, drug abuse of any type, sexual immorality, rudeness, battery, driving of Polytechnic’s vehicles, and disobedience to lawful instructions; walking on lawns; littering of the Campus; writing graffiti on walkways and indiscriminate posting of posters; and indecent dressings in the forms of sagging, revealing clothes, coloured hair, body hugs, face cap and T-shirt with strange and vulgar inscriptions. While on campus, grievances are inevitable. However, the right thing for aggrieved students to do is to go through the institutional channel for reporting grievances instead of taking the law into their own hands”.

The Rector educated the students and teeming parents on some innovative of the Federal Polytechnic Ilaro.

“Our school boasts of being the first Polytechnic in Nigeria to have established a Driving School, which is certified and approved by the Federal Road Safety Corps and the Vehicle Inspectorate Office. The driving school offers an opportunity for those of you whose 6courses require proficiency in driving to take driving lessons. Moreover, the Polytechnic has established an Innovation Centre in order to nurture the capacity of students with respect to the knowledge and skills of programming, drone manufacturing and flying, and equipment manufacturing requisite for eliminating human labour-intensive repetitive tasks, essentially preparing students for the disruptive demands of the future of work and the unfolding fourth and fifth industrial revolutions. It will interest you to note that the centre, with students of Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Computer Science, recently produced biometric devices for attendance at classrooms and examinations and electric tricycles with a full complement of batteries, solar systems, front and reverse gear systems. The internal production of Biometric device is thoughtful and novel. This is in line with global best practices. It is in a bid to accurately capture data for planning and improve students’ performances and staff’s commitment to duty. We have started capturing biometric information of the new students, management staff, and Identity cards (for old and new students) are being produced internally. Similarly, the preparation and production of staff identity cards are ongoing. Also, it is in the time table to capture biometric information about the teaching and non-teaching staff of the Polytechnic. The biometric device will be deployed in stages during the second semester 2023/2024 academic session. Similarly, the processes are ongoing to produce numbers of electronic tricycles for transportation of visitors, students, and staff on campus. Similarly, lecture timetable, examination timetable and seating arrangements are now being automated in line with the Polytechnic’s smart institution’s policy. Students will get electronic text messages with the examination halls and seat numbers early in the morning or afternoon of every examination. We will soon perfect everything relating to the use of technology to monitor students’ attendants in classrooms, movement in and out of the Library, Directorate of Student Affairs, medical, hostel, and other areas on and off campus”.

*Yewa Traditional Council receives IGP Egbetokun amid high euphoria*

. . . as Chief Egungbohun extols IGP Egbetokun's community engagement 

 HRM Oba Kehinde Olugbenle led Yewa Traditional Council on Wednesday received the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NP, at the Asade Agunloye IV palace in Ilaro, Ogun State.

The IGP, flanked by Police principal officers among who were Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Olatoye Durosinmi and the State Commissioner of Police (CP) Abiodun Alamutu, was in the State on a 3-day official visit to interact with critical stakeholders in the Gateway State.

Appreciating the Police Chief, the chief host, on behalf of Yewa Traditional Council, expressed heartfelt appreciation, assured “the Pride of the Land” of a continuous support to the police officers and formations across Yewaland.

Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, a Peace Advocate and Community Leader, in a brief chat with press men described the IGP as a super cop with high intel and capacity for coordination and management of a sensitive institution like the Nigerian Police.

The Oluomo of Yewaland, noted that in the last ten months of Egbetokun's leadership of the Nigerian Police, there have been remarkable improvement in the pattern of operation and police-civil relations.

He also commended the IGP on what he termed effective modern policing system, which according to him encapsulates community engagement and local intelligence gathering mechanism which has punched a bigger blow to the uprising cases of banditry and kidnapping across the country.

"We are very elated to welcome our illustrious son and a super cop of high repute home and to the Yewa Traditional Council led by the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, HRM Oba Kehinde Olugbenle MFR, the Asade Agunloye IV, as he visits the State on 3-day working visit.

"I want to say that IGP Kayode Egbetokun have been a dependable and reliable compatriot and a capable Police Chief that possesses the requisite intelligence, capacity and strategy to strengthen the Nigerian security architecture and ensure stability and sustainable peace", Chief IBD Dende Egungbohun stated.

The IGP in his remark disclosed according to a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr, mipra, fCAI, that the IGP Egbetokun pronounced the establishment of a Police Mobile Force base in the Ogun West Senatorial District to subdue the influx of criminals and bandits into Ogun state and Nigeria by extension via the borders in those areas.

Notable sons of Yewaland who were in attendance to honour the IGP were Aremo of Yewaland, Distinguished Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), Asoju-Oba of Ilaro, Chief Muftau Olabimtan, and host of prominent individuals.

NANS Acknowledges Power Minister's Efforts, Passes vote of confidence in him

..urges Nigerians to be patient for ongoing transformation in power sector


The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Senate Council, led by Dist. Sen. Ekundina Segun Elvis, the Senate President, has expressed unwavering support and solidarity for the Honourable Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu and the entire ministry in their quest to revitalize the power sector.

This was contained in a press statement issued at the weekend, the copy which was made available to newsmen in Lagos, noting that the dedication of Adelabu and his entire team is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's. vision towards a renewed hope for all Nigerians.

The statement read: " In recent days, we have closely followed the Honourable Minister's interviews where he eloquently outlined the challenges facing the power sector and the proactive steps being taken to overcome them.

"The Honourable Minister has showcased a profound understanding and dedication to enhancing service delivery in Nigeria's power sector. Despite the sector's hurdles, his tireless commitment to implementing reforms and driving projects signifies a positive shift towards addressing issues across the entire power value chain, encompassing Generation, Transmission, and Distribution.

"From the successful completion of power plant projects to addressing liquidity challenges within the value chain and expanding rural electrification efforts, we are confident that the Honourable Minister's initiatives will yield tangible improvements and lasting solutions. His strategic approach and unwavering resolve are poised to usher in enhanced power supply nationwide.

"We commend the Honourable Minister for his steadfast commitment to providing reliable and affordable electricity to every corner of the nation.

"Moreover, we unequivocally express our support for the Honourable Minister amidst the orchestrated attacks and collective opposition against the ministry under his leadership by individuals motivated by self-interest and narrow agendas. It is disheartening to witness certain entities, posing as student leaders, try to undermine the Honourable Minister's commendable endeavors through unfounded criticisms and unjustified assaults on matters vital for the nation's future.

"We implore the Honourable Minister not to be swayed or distracted by the antics of these self-serving individuals whose legitimacy and motives are questionable. The National Association of Nigerian Students firmly stands by the Honourable Minister and pledges our steadfast backing for his initiatives and noble intentions for the Nigerian populace.

"Finally, we applaud the Honourable Minister of Power for his exceptional leadership, innovative initiatives, and contributions to the development of Nigeria's power sector. We recognize the intricacies of the challenges within the power sector and acknowledge that addressing them demands courage, time, and collaborative efforts from all stakeholders. Therefore, we remain dedicated to working in harmony with the Honourable Minister and other stakeholders to achieve sustainable and dependable electricity supply for all Nigerians".

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!
Long live the Ministry of Power!!!
Long live the Honourable Minister of Power!!!

CSO faults FIJ's reports on Ibrahim Egungbohun Dende, says its campaign of calumny

A leading Non-Governmental Organization, Advocacy for Advancement of Peace &Harmony in Africa Initiative (ADAPHAI) has faulted the reports published by Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) alleging a community leader and Peace Advocate, Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun, also know as IBD Dende of smuggling.

The National Coordinator of the organisation, Comrade Sulaimon Suberu in a press briefing in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital on Friday said the personality of IBD Dende is far from such nefarious activities as alleged by the medium arguing that aside being a legitimate businessman, Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun is Peace Advocate of repute in Yewa Land and Ogun State in general .

According to ADAPHAI, Chief Egungbohun had carved a niche for himself in the several interventions aimed at entrenching sanity in the boarder areas around the axis.

The group, therefore, called on security agencies and the office of the NSA to quickly look into the issue and appropriately sanction peddlers of fake news in that regard.

"Our organisation, a leading Civil Society Organization in Africa, with mandate for peace advocacy and non-violent culture is compelled to activate a fact-finding mechanism to ascertain certain narratives in a section of the media about the personality of a Peace Advocate and Community Leader in Ogun State, Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun, popularly known as IBD Dende, across the State.

"It is on record that our organisation, in the course of several interventions on peace advocacy in the border communities along Yewa South and Yewa North of Ogun State got to know Chief Egungbohun through Community engagement and social mobilization among the local populace in the axis.

"By our experience and records of engagement for many years, we found Chief Egungbohun, alias IBD Dende to be an harbinger of culture and the rich tradition of his people with rare sense of patriotism who does his legitimate business as a
Border Community Stakeholder and Licensed Freight Clearing and Forwarder with utmost integrity.

"Chief Egungbohun by our discreet investigation had worked closely with the highest echelon of Nigerian Customs and the Presidency to entrench sanity at the border areas of Ogun State and in the battle against smuggling and other nefarious activities at the border.

"As a revered Community Leader, the proud title holder of Oluomo of Yewaland remains a rallying point for his people for economic empowerment and youth engagement towards peaceful co-existence and harmony in the axis.

"Chief IBD Dende is a member of 20-member Peace-Building Committee on Herder-Farmer Conflicts appointed by Gov Dapo Abiodun to find a lasting solution to the incessant clashes between farmers in the agrarian communities of Yewaland and marauding herders.

"Meanwhile, contrary to the report published by Fisayo Soyonbo of Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) which practically predicated on vague evidence of questionable sources that were out of contest, we make bold to say that Chief IBD Dende was never arrested for Gun running neither had he ever supported such nefarious activities in his entire existence.

"We challenge Fisayo Soyombo and FIJ to prove the allegation of gun running. It’s illogical to say that Nigeria Customs who he alleged that released Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun and refused to disclose his offence should be the one to try him. We appeal to Fisayo Soyombo to tell Nigerians the evidence of his arrest, and the identities of the guns after all, arms are serially numbered. How should it be so difficult for Fisayo and FIJ to unravel such riddles he shunned out as findings? We are interested, we want evidence. After all, on two occasions we gathered that Chief Egungbohun intervened to retrieve arms seized by Agbekoyas from security agencies at Egguea and Ota in Ogun State. This is verifiable.


"Also, the allegation that Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun connived with certain security agents to smuggle guns into the country six months to the general election, and recently smuggled motorcycles popularly known as Okada in the local parlance and Tramadol consignments for terrorists were blantant lies. . We demand of Fisayo and FIJ to substantiate the allegation by publishing his traceable evidence, be it photograph of the trucks linkable to IBD Dende during uploading/offloading or recipients who were terrorists as alleged to substantiate that the motorcycles and tramadol were delivered by IBD Dende or Customs.

"The worst of the lies, as we have confirmed through our findings, told by FIJ and Fisayo Soyombo was that Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun smuggled three 2024 Toyota land cruisers and four white coaster buses into the country recently, which according to Fisayo was executed with the “express say-so of Hussein Ejigbunu”. We are again challenge both Fisayo Soyombo and FIJ to come clean on this riddles; Nigerians want to know the final destination of the seven vehicles. Afterall, he said the vehicles were taken to Lagos. Where in Lagos, to whom? FIJ and Fisayo should spare Nigerians from agony of false alarm", ADAPHAI said.

The organisation, therefore, called on Fisayo Soyombo, the publisher of FIJ to come up with logical evidence to substantiate his claim, adding that in the absence of such evidence, the allegation remains absolutely unfounded and mere fiction.

It continued: "Unless Fisayo comes out with tangible evidence, we have no option than to believe that his works were fabricated lies by its proponents to smear Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun’s (IBD Dende) personality for political and pecuniary gains.

"To this end, we want to sound this stern warning as a way of maintaining law and order in the public space that nobody have any rights to call fellow Nigerians defamatory names like notorious smuggler, sponsor of terrorists, gun runner etc without authority of a competent court of law. Fisayo Soyombo and FIJ could have forgotten the particular item of the law but we are disappointed in his lawyer who supposed to know better to caution him. He ought to have been trained to know how to differentiate between opinion and findings. Fisayo Soyombo and FIJ erred by calling Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun a “notorious smuggler, sponsor of terrorists and gun runner” for any reasons whatsoever.

"We, therefore, call on security agencies, especially the Department of State Services and the office of the National Security Adviser to quickly wade in and do a thorough investigation to ascertain the truth of the matter and appropriately sanction peddlers of false information and cheap propaganda

"On a final note, we solidarise with Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun, alias IBD Dende, on this and urge him to maintain his peace as always and as a community leader and Peace Advocate of high repute".

EID- EL-FITR FELICITATION!!

On behalf of the Management, the entire Staff and Students of the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, I, Engr. Dr. Man Yahaya Sani, the Rector of the citadel, hereby rejoice with every Muslim Ummar in the Polytechnic community, as we complete the holy month of Ramadan.

Indeed, we have just fulfilled another important pillar of Islam, for the purpose of strengthening our relationship with Almighty Allah and moving closer to Him through prayers and supplications.

It is also important for all Islamic faithful to see this spiritual exercise as a great opportunity to pray for our nation, especially at this critical period for direction towards navigating our ephemeral economic challenges for prosperity in no distant future.

May the blessings of this special moment be permanent in our lives and that of our loved ones with positivity of remarkable
impacts.

Consequently, I also use this medium to show our gratitude to all members of Staff for your dedication to duty and steadfastness inspite of array of challenges presently facing the nation; I indeed salute and commend your courage.

Eid-Mubarak

E-signed

Sola Lawal

Protocol, Media and Public Relations Officer.

EID- EL-FITR FELICITATION!!

On behalf of the Management, the entire Staff and Students of the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, I, Engr. Dr. Man Yahaya Sani, the Rector of the citadel, hereby rejoice with every Muslim Ummar in the Polytechnic community, as we complete the holy month of Ramadan.

Indeed, we have just fulfilled another important pillar of Islam, for the purpose of strengthening our relationship with Almighty Allah and moving closer to Him through prayers and supplications.

It is also important for all Islamic faithful to see this spiritual exercise as a great opportunity to pray for our nation, especially at this critical period for direction towards navigating our ephemeral economic challenges for prosperity in no distant future.

May the blessings of this special moment be permanent in our lives and that of our loved ones with positivity of remarkable
impacts.

Consequently, I also use this medium to show our gratitude to all members of Staff for your dedication to duty and steadfastness inspite of array of challenges presently facing the nation; I indeed salute and commend your courage.

Eid-Mubarak

E-signed

Sola Lawal

Protocol, Media and Public Relations Officer.

NAPS passes vote of confidence in Ede Poly Rector, Man Yahaya Sani

The leadership of National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has passed vote of confidence in the Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, Engr. Dr. Man Yahaya Sani, based on his outstanding leadership qualities and exceptional administrative acumen.

The association, in a letter signed by its Senate President, Comrade Adeniyi Boluwatife Temitope, described the Rector as a father to the association since his days as Director at the Federal Polytechnic, Bida, Niger State and a man of peace and orderliness, adding that he possesses a rare calmness and capacity to listen to every party.

This was contained in a release signed by the Protocol, Media and Public Relations Officer of the institution, Sola Lawal, the copy which was made available to newsmen in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, on Friday.

The association added that Dr. Man Yahaya Sani operates a very robust conflict resolution mechanism that expressly resolves issues amicably between the management and the students' union body at the Polytechnic, making the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, one of the most peaceful higher institutions of learning in the country.

NAPS' leadership also commended the Rector for his determination and will to prioritise the welfare of students and entire Polytechnic Community, urging him not to rest on his oars.

The Rector, in his reaction thanked the association on the honour bestowed on him, he however, described the vote of confidence as a product of collective performance of members of Staff and management alike.

He, therefore, charged the entire Polytechnic Community to redouble their efforts in order to sustain the current standard.

FELICITATION!!!!

On behalf of the Management, Staff and the entire Students of the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, I, Engr. Dr. Man Yahaya Sani, the Rector of the citadel, hereby rejoice with Christian faithful in the Polytechnic community, on the occasion of this year's Easter celebration, in commemoration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

This is indeed another special occasion for all Christians to take a moment out for sober reflection on the teachings and enviable figure of Jesus Christ as a compass for direction, beyond the inherent merriment of the season.

May the blessings of the moment illuminate our ways and grant us abundant peace and all round advancement.

As we celebrate, let's all continue to be patriotic and pray for the country and our leaders as well, with strong belief in the present administration at the centre to change the old economic order for the prosperity of all.

Lastly, may I also express my sincere appreciation to all members of Staff for your total dedication to duty and steadfastness inspite of array of challenges presently facing our nation, I really salute your courage.

Happy Easter!

E-signed

Sola Lawal, mnipr

Protocol, Media and Public Relations Officer.

*Mrs Elizabeth Ajibola, discharged, acquitted, as Damilola Banire of OyinmomoTV failed to Prove case*

The Magistrate Court sitting in Ikeja Magisterial District, Ogudu, led by Chief Magistrate (Mrs) Taiwo D. Akanni has discharged and acquitted (Mrs) Elizabeth Olusolape Akintola- Ajibola, of a 3-count charge leveled against her by one of her tenants - Damilola Banire, of OyinmomoTV, Lagos.

Damilola Banire had employed the service of the publisher of Ooduarere.com in publishing three (3) unbalanced and inaccurate allegations against her landlady, Mrs Elizabeth Olusolape Akintola-Ajibola, titled, “Nigerian journalist cries out after her landlady threw out her belongings, a day after her rent expired”.

Damilola Banire alleged that her landlady had conspired with five men to break into her rented apartment in her absence, adding that properties worth one million and ninety-five thousand (₦1,095,000) naira were stolen by the landlady.

After many adjournments because the female journalist (PW1) couldn’t provide evidence needed to prove her charges against her landlady, the Court led by Chief Magistrate (Mrs) Taiwo D. Akanni ruled that the three count charges were unsubstantiated, lack proven evidences and right there dismissed the charges as contained in her judgement tagged, MIK/I/117/2016.

“In view of the above position therefore, the Court hereby finds for the Defendant and holds that Defendant is found not guilty of the said 3-Count charge brought against her and accordingly, the Defendant is discharged and acquitted".

The Court on 29th day of November, 2019 thereby discharged and acquitted Mrs Elizabeth Olusolape Akintola Ajibola from the 3-Count charge.

Until recently, when the attention of Mrs Ajibola was called to the one-sided and libelous report by the publisher of Ooduarere.com as stated in paragraph two above, it was expected that Ooduarere.com would have done the needful going by the ethics of journalism by updating the inaccurate and unbalanced news item, as well be responsible enough to tender an unreserved apology.

However, RazorTimes reports that the publisher of Ooduarere.com wouldn't respond to messages sent to him through his two available contacts: Gmail and Facebook accounts (ooduarere@gmail.com).

"As a matter of the rule of law, Ooduarere.com should update the defamatory contents on its portal without delay, or else may be sued for libel", Mrs Ajibola warned.

Attached is the full judgment delivered by the Honourable Magistrate of Ikeja Magistrate Court, dated November 29, 2019.

WE WILL KEEP OUR DOORS OPEN: A BRIEF REMARKS DELIVERED BY HON. TUNDE OLADUNJOYE, SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT TO OGUN STATE GOVERNOR, PRINCE DAPO ABIODUN CON, AT THE INAUGURAL MEETING OF THE NEWLY ELECTED EXECUTIVES OF THE INTER-PARTY ADVISORY COUNCIL (IPAC), OGUN STATE CHAPTER.


I wish to most respectfully congratulate the new chairman and executives of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (I-PAC), Ogun State Chapter.

I must commend the peaceful nature of the last election which was free and fair. We commend the spirit of the winners and losers of the election. And from reports at our disposal, there was actually no losers as reconciliation has been made.

We want to assure you that the government shall continue to provide a level playing ground as already demonstrated so far.

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) is the umbrella body of all the registered Political Parties in Nigeria. A platform for the promotion and sustenance of a free, fair, credible, transparent, acceptable, inclusive and peaceful electoral environment in Nigeria. It promotes the conduct of political contests devoid of rancour and emphasizes the values of tolerance, sound conduct, a spirit of accommodation and teamwork in planning or organizing political competition with a view to strengthening and deepening the nation’s emerging democracy

The above description of IPAC tallies totally with the political belief and style of administration of the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, who is well known for his inclusiveness style of politics, the politics of Omoluabi, that has reduced the political heat in Ogun State almost to a near zero.

We state categorically that IPAC is not an opposition body. It is not expected to be. However, while the individually parties can criticise or oppose the party or government in power, IPAC cannot and should not be seen as an opposition. The body should be seen as a partner in progress, who must exhaust all possible internal measures to interact with the government of the day.

The government will continue to keep its doors open to IPAC as a body and even to individual members/political parties for collaboration and cooperation.

We are also using this occasion to appreciate the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its laudable roles so far.

Thank you all for the good words and compliments to our government, even as we assure you that we shall not rest on our oars.

Igbega Ipinle Ogun, Ajose gbogbo wa.

WE WILL KEEP OUR DOORS OPEN: A BRIEF REMARKS DELIVERED BY HON. TUNDE OLADUNJOYE, SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT TO OGUN STATE GOVERNOR, PRINCE DAPO ABIODUN CON, AT THE INAUGURAL MEETING OF THE NEWLY ELECTED EXECUTIVES OF THE INTER-PARTY ADVISORY COUNCIL (IPAC), OGUN STATE CHAPTER.


I wish to most respectfully congratulate the new chairman and executives of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (I-PAC), Ogun State Chapter.

I must commend the peaceful nature of the last election which was free and fair. We commend the spirit of the winners and losers of the election. And from reports at our disposal, there was actually no losers as reconciliation has been made.

We want to assure you that the government shall continue to provide a level playing ground as already demonstrated so far.

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) is the umbrella body of all the registered Political Parties in Nigeria. A platform for the promotion and sustenance of a free, fair, credible, transparent, acceptable, inclusive and peaceful electoral environment in Nigeria. It promotes the conduct of political contests devoid of rancour and emphasizes the values of tolerance, sound conduct, a spirit of accommodation and teamwork in planning or organizing political competition with a view to strengthening and deepening the nation’s emerging democracy

The above description of IPAC tallies totally with the political belief and style of administration of the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, who is well known for his inclusiveness style of politics, the politics of Omoluabi, that has reduced the political heat in Ogun State almost to a near zero.

We state categorically that IPAC is not an opposition body. It is not expected to be. However, while the individually parties can criticise or oppose the party or government in power, IPAC cannot and should not be seen as an opposition. The body should be seen as a partner in progress, who must exhaust all possible internal measures to interact with the government of the day.

The government will continue to keep its doors open to IPAC as a body and even to individual members/political parties for collaboration and cooperation.

We are also using this occasion to appreciate the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its laudable roles so far.

Thank you all for the good words and compliments to our government, even as we assure you that we shall not rest on our oars.

Igbega Ipinle Ogun, Ajose gbogbo wa.