₦airaland Forum

We Are Providing Immediate Solution To Isheri Flooding-Ministers

The Federal Government on Wednesday assured residents of flood-prone areas, particularly the Isheri North community in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State of quick and permanent solution to the perennial menace of flooding in the corridor.

This assurance was given by the Minister of State, Environment; Dr Isiaq Salako who was in the company of the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev.

The Ministers were led to the areas by Governor Dapo Abiodun, and the Onisheri of Isheri, Oba Sulaiman Bamgbade, during an on the spot assessment of the community which has been ravaged by floods in the past days, occasioned by the release of water from Oyan Dam.

Dr Salako, noted that the flood problem facing the community is multifaceted and must be tackled from many angles, adding that the role and habits of the people, as regards the protection of the environment must be critically çonsidered.

The Minister promised that with the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun, a permanent solution would be found to the problem.

According to him, the President fully understands what the problems are and the Governor has also been very proactive in addressing them.

The minister, while adding that a comprehensive study must be embarked upon to find a lasting solution to the problem, said that there was a need for the expansion of drainages and lifting of roads in the area.

"For us to be able to permanently solve this problem, we must undertake a comprehensive study so that we understand fully what needs to be done in a way that will permanently bring forward a solution.

"Therefore from the perspective of the Federal Ministry of Environment, the first thing we are going to do is to immediately commission a comprehensive study of this place so that we fully understand what we need to do, what we need to do with Ogun River and I am sure my brother, the Minister for Water Resources will also support us with what we need to do with the dams.

"We also need to know how to ensure we expand our drainages and lift our roads and then also our people to change their habits and be more environmentally responsible," he said.

Salako also disclosed that the effect of climate change cannot be reversed but can be slowed down if adapted to, charging the people and the state to ensure their water channels are properly cleared and their waste disposed properly.

In his remarks, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof Joseph Utsev disclosed that the Federal Government has set up a committee that is working extensively on flood challenges across the country.

He assured the people that the Federal Government is leaving no stone unturned to find a lasting solution to the problem.

He said: "The Federal Government has set up a committee that is working entirely on the flood challenges of Nigeria.

"We are providing solutions to flooding in the country, not only in Ogun State. We have gone to other states and we have visited Ogun State now and we have seen what has happened. We believe that by the grace of God, the solution has come.

"I want to assure the people of Ogun State and the Lagos people residing within the terrain that we are leaving no stone unturned to try to see how we can proffer solutions to this problem."

Responding, Governor Abiodun, while commending President Bola Tinubu for his response to the plight of the flood victims, also disclosed that the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs would visit the state in the next few days.

The governor also thanked the Redeemed Christian Church of God and NASFAT for making available their premises to serve as centres for some of the displaced residents.

Abiodun also affirmed that some buildings built on channels would give way, adding that the drainage problems would also be sorted.

"In the cause of our moving around, we saw some buildings that were built on a channel. Channel that is meant to channelize the Ogun River into the lagoon, such buildings will not stand.

"For us to have a permanent solution, we must appreciate the fact that there will be some pain. I know the minister may not want to tell you, but as your Governor, I can tell you that we are going to immediately embark on how to increase the level of the arterial roads.

"We will also sort the drainages. Water in the drainages is stagnant; they are not flowing anywhere. So, some buildings may have to give way so that the drainages can become outfalls where water falls into," he said.

Isheri Flooding: We Need FG's Intervention - Abiodun

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has called for the intervention of the Federal Government in tackling the perennial flooding that affect Isheri community in Ifo Local Government Area of the State.

Governor Abiodun, who made the call when he received the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Tsev, who paid him a courtesy call in his office at Oke-Mosan Abeokuta, on Tuesday, said the magnitude of the flooding was beyond the capacity of the state government, hence the call for prompt attention by the federal government.

The governor noted that the scale and magnitude of the flooding was beyond what the state can handle.

He said: "Yesterday, I was in Isheri North where we bordered Lagos. The whole of that area is flooded and that is one of our most valuable parcel of land with Estates for upper and medium income earners and we also have lots of industries there because of its proximity to Lagos State.

"We need the federal government's not just attention, but intervention, but Intervention because the remedial action that is required to resolve this crisis is beyond what the state can handle and of course, we do not even have the expertise and beyond expertise, we do not have the financial capacity to solve the problem.

"This place is completely build up and we are not going to start demolishing houses. The level of investments in that area is so high. We must have a team from the state government, Ministries of Water Resources, Environment and of course Humanitarian Affairs to see what we can do collaboratively, to bring immediate term relief to our people. We should also work towards medium term and more sustainable long term solutions to the problem."

While noting that Dams are created to be a source of water supply for the use of the people, industries and for agricultural purposes, Governor Abiodun however regretted that in the last few years, the state has experienced perennial flooding, attributing the menace to lack of purpose build channels, building on flood planes and drainages, saying it was time to rise up and deal with the problem once and for all.

He said the state was aware of the Ministry's Clean Up Nigeria, Water Sanitation Hygiene and the e-Wash programmes, adding that his administration would key into them as there is a nexus between sanitation and health.

Speaking earlier, Prof. Tsev said he was in the state to see the ministry's facilities at Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, which included the Oyan Dam and farms, and the flooding in some parts of the State, assuring that action would be taken to mitigate the challenges.

He said the ministry was concerned with the perennial flooding as a result of the release of water from Oyan Dam, adding that lasting solution must be found to the problem.

The minister said: "We are in Ogun State to take a total assignment of what is happening with a view to prevent it . The flooding can be prevented and we will be in Ogun and Lagos states, to see what can be done to tackle the problem once and for all.

"We are also here to see how open defecation can be eliminated as well as how the State can key into our various programmes like the Clean Up Nigeria, Water Sanitation Hygiene programme and the e- Wash programme."

Prof. Tsev said that Ogun State is a major stakeholder in ensuring food security for the nation which is one of the mandates given to his ministry by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Ogun To Recoup Fund Expended On Agro Cargo Airport Soon-Abiodun

…govt to sign concession agreement in 45 days, as commercial flights operations begin


Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has said that the state government would soon recoup all expenses on the state’s Agro Cargo Airport, as various international aviation companies jostle for concessional operations.

The airport, which was located along Iperu-Ilishan road in Ikenne Local Government area of the state was conceptualized as an aerotropolis, based on its strategic location, being contiguous to the nation's commercial capital of Lagos.

The governor, shortly after inspection of the airport at the weekend had a chat with newsmen, asserting that commercial flights would begin operations at the airport before the end of the year.

He added that the concessioning of the facility would be done in the next one and half months with the state recouping the money expended on the facility.

He said: “I’m sure that in the next 30 to 45 days, we should sign the dotted lines of the concessioning of this airport, which would mean that everything the airport has cost us would completely be repay back to us and we can use the money to pay our debt and also begin to look at other projects.”

The governor also noted that the airport would be granted approval to commence commercial operations by the end of 2023, which will see both local and international flights landing at the airport.


“This airport, sometime by the end of November, December would be fully granted approval. Commercial operations would start here. It means that you can board a flight to Abuja, Port Harcourt and I am sure that by the end of the year, you will begin to see international flights leave wherever and land in this airport by the grace of God,” Prince Abiodun said.

Governor Abiodun said what Ogun State is building is a truly international airport that can compete with anyone around the world, adding that his government decided to take the plunge to build the facility because failure to do so would have meant waiting forever.

He said: “We are building a truly international airport. And we believe that we as government should be facilitators to the enablers. We have de-risk this project because as much as we believe that as government, we don’t have any business in business, we realise the fact that were we to wait for others to come and build this airport, we would probably be waiting after I must have left office.

“But, what did we do? We decided as government to look for funding and build this airport and then concession it to others, thereby de-risking the project. So, today, what you see is a world class airport that in itself is attracting the attention of airport operators around the world.

“We have a process that is in place where a few others have expressed interest to get the airport concession to them. It is very exciting that the airport is not completed and yet people are jostling to take over the airport, pay us all that it has cost us and begin to run this airport. Had we not built this airport to world class standard, nobody would come here.

“There are other airports all over the country that different states have built and I don’t know how much interest those airports are receiving all over the world, but this airport is receiving interest from international airport operators around the world.

“You will see that our initiatives, vision, dedication, intentionality, resolute, our refusal to be distracted by treacherous politicians and backstabbers and our resolved to remain focus, is paying off.”


The governor described the runway, administrative building, apron and the control tower at the airport as the best in the country.

According to him, the runway is the longest, the widest and the best ever constructed in Nigeria.

“Beyond the runway, we have an apron. The apron itself is a world class apron. That is where planes park after they land. That apron is 82,000 square metres of solid concrete. I am not sure of how many aprons are built to this standard. And we have the administration building which is nearing completion. Against the administration building is the control tower. I say with pride and I beat my chest, there is no control tower that comes anything near this facility,” he added.

The airport, according to him was located within a special processing zone as a good example of Public Private sector partnership.

“For us, this initiative ticks the box of providing an enabling environment for Public Private Sector partnership, which is part of our vision ab initio,” the governor noted.

Ogun To Deliver 200 Housing Units At PMB Estate By End Of 2023-Abiodun

…says govt working towards affordable houses in Ogun


Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has disclosed that about 200 units of semi-detached, detached, fully detached duplexes and terraces under construction at the Muhammadu Buhari Estate, Abeokuta are at advanced stages of completion and will be delivered before the end of the year.

Prince Abiodun also said that his administration is working towards providing affordable houses to all strata of society.

The governor stated this while fielding questions from newsmen after he inspected the ongoing construction at the estate, located along Kobape Road, Abeokuta.

Prince Abiodun stated that some of the buildings under construction have been fully paid for while part payments have been made for others, stressing the need for the contractors to step up work to meet the completion dateline.

“Today, we have almost 200 buildings that are upcoming. Since the last time that I came here, many of them have been sold; some have paid in part, others have paid in full. The reason I came here today is to see how we are doing and to see how I can reconcile the date of delivery with the level of progress on the project. I am impressed, but I think the contractors can work harder.



“I have instructed the Ogun State Property Investment Corporation (OPIC) to immediately call a meeting of all the contractors and read them a riot act. We want to finish this project in no distant future,” the governor said.



He posited that housing is one of the basic needs of human beings, hence his government would not spare any effort in making it available to the people at a reasonable price.



Abiodun noted that the President Muhammadu Buhari Estate which is one of the inherited projects from the previous administration, would be turned into a top-notch estate that would serve as a reference for others that would spring up in other parts of the State.



The governor who took time to explain the intricacies that surrounded the estate from inception, said the previous administration reneged on its contractual agreement with the contractors that provided the infrastructure in the estate almost leading to the forfeiture of the property.



He said: “This is one of the inherited projects from the previous administration and for the avoidance of doubt named the President Muhammadu Buhari Estate only had construction of infrastructure awarded and one show building constructed.



“But by the time we assumed office apparently, the previous administration had refused to pay the contractors for the provision of infrastructure and the contractors took the state government to court and were about to get judgment which was the forfeiture of this estate to the contractors. Because we did not have handover note, we found out very late in the day but our Attorney General’s office swung into action and got an out-of-court settlement with the contractors after which we began installment payments and of course, with due charges.



“While that was being structured, we began to think of how to develop this estate because we have prioritised it as one of the projects inherited where the commonwealth of the state had been invested and we must not allow it to waste.”

Prince Abiodun added that the estate which is being constructed under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) in line with his administration's vision, has the State providing the land and the needed infrastructure, while the contractors, real estate companies and builders build the structures and sell them for mutual benefits between the State and the other parties.

The governor expressed delight with the success of the PPP initiative which he hinged on trust, emphasizing that it validates how much trust has been restored between the government, the private sector and the governed.

“We have about five different companies that are working here in partnership with the Ogun State government. I’m impressed that if there is anything one could take away from here is that our PPP initiative is working. PPP initiatives can only work if there is trust and confidence in the administration. Nobody will come and partner with you if they are not sold on the fact that we are a serious and focused administration. To me, it is a validation of how much trust has been restored between the government, the private sector and those that we are governing,” the governor said.

While describing the project as "a promise made and a promise kept", Prince Abiodun noted with delight the recent ranking of the State as number one among the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory that has shown significant improvement in Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) drive year-in-year out, saying it is an indication that the administration's policies are bearing fruits.

Palliative Interventions: Abiodun extends payment of N10,000 transport allowance for civil servants by six months

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has approved the extension of the N10,000 transport allowance granted to the state civil servants to cushion the effect of the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government by another six months.

The allowance, which was part of various interventions adopted by the state government at the wake of the deregulation policy in July ought to have ended in September.

Speaking during a meeting with Permanent Secretaries in the state, Governor Abiodun disclosed that the extension would allow the state workforce to continue to cope with the effects of the subsidy removal.

He described the allowance as part of the temporary immediate-term interventions to allow the government to come up with appropriate medium and long-term intervention plans for all categories of people in the state.

Apart from the N10,000, which also covers pensioners, the state government also approved hazard allowance for health and medical personnel, immediate release of letters of promotion in respect of 2021 and 2022, payment of March and April 2023 leave bonuses for public servants and immediate cash-backing for the quarterly payment of gratuities to pensioners.

The governor, recalled that Ogun was the first state to introduce E-Mobility and Gas Mobility Programme with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) enabled buses and electric-powered tricycles and motorcycles (Okada).

Prince Abiodun said the palliatives being distributed across the state have elicited applause across the country and beyond, except in a few instances where fifth columnists mischievously criticised the government's efforts.

According to the governor, palliatives are not meant for people who are not in need, adding that it is impossible to distribute palliatives to the five million inhabitants of the state.

The state helmsman spoke of plans by his administration to leave legacy projects behind at the end of his tenure.

He hinted that a special committee on the rehabilitation of public schools would soon be set up, saying the committee would be funded through a trust fund.

Governor Abiodun, added that efforts are in top gear to improve mobility in the state by identifying and rehabilitating critical roads across the state.

Ogun Commends President Tinubu On Transfer Of Lagos-Ota-Abeokuta Road

The Ogun State Government has commended the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration for finally transferring the reconstruction of the Lagos-Ota-Abeokuta Expressway to the state.

It would be recalled that the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi while speaking after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja on Monday, announced the transfer of the ever-busy road to the Ogun State Government.

The reconstruction efforts would be done under the Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI).

The state government, in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, on Tuesday praised the federal government for finally acceding to the requests made by the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.

The statement recalled that the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration made several requests to the Federal Government to take over the road, even before its total collapse.

It described the Tinubu administration as a listening government that is ready to jettison the existing schism between the federal government and the federating units.

The statement also commended the works minister for following on his words to ensure a paradigm shift from what was obtained before in the rehabilitation of federal roads across the state.

The state government noted that necessary machineries are being put in motion to ensure the early kick-off of the project.

It urged motorists plying the road to be patient with the state government as succour is on the way.

Ogun Govt Accuses Opposition Of Blackmail Over Palliatives Distribution


Ogun State government on Sunday raised the alarm over the ongoing attempt by opposition politicians to rubbish efforts by the state and the federal governments to provide relief to the vulnerable people to cushion the effects of the recent subsidy removal.

The state government warned Nigerians to be wary of the antics of such politicians who have been going about to rubbish the palliative programmes put on place meant to cater for the poorest of the poor.

Reacting to recent online videos in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the state governor, Lekan Adeniran, the Ogun State government said some agents of the opposition have resorted to media blackmail to discredit the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun.

Describing the perpetrators of the media blackmail as fifth columnists, the statement noted that the federal government was unambiguous in saying the palliative is not meant for everybody but for the most vulnerable people in the society.

The statement noted that it smacks of bad blood and evil intentions for some fifth columnists to be spreading falsehoods targeted at discrediting the ongoing well coordinated distribution across the state.

According to the statement, the government of Governor Abiodun has been severally lauded at home and abroad for the efficient and prudent manner the sharing of the palliatives has been handled.

"Let it be recalled that Governor Abiodun made it clear to everybody involved in sharing the palliatives that it must get to the intended beneficiaries.

"But in spite of the painstaking effort of the government in to ensure that the palliatives get to the right beneficiaries promptly, some people are unrelenting in their bids to tar the administration with negative brushes for reasons not beyond politics.

"This explains the case of the man in a recent video who claims to be a Community Development Association chairman somewhere in the state. Taking to social media and throwing cautions to the wind, he betrayed the posture of a man out to do mischief so as to score cheap political gains ," he said

The statement expressed surprise at the man's claim that the bag of rice he displayed was meant for his entire CDA.

"This man is aware that the bag of rice is meant for ONE vulnerable family in the community, and not for all the residents. It was sent to him as the chairman for onward transfer to a vulnerable widow in his community.

"But, instead of ensuring that it gets to the intended beneficiary, he chose to play politics with the palliative, exposing himself as the destructive opposition agent that he actually is.

"This man's expression of disappointment is against the federal government's clear instructions on the palliatives. He clearly got it wrong thinking that government was ready to provide enough bags of rice that would go round every family in his community. It is also obvious that he was out on a hatchet job.

"It has also been established by some members of his community that more bags of rice were sent to other beneficiaries in Shokeye community through other stakeholders. Sadly, the chose to play dirty politics on the social media for which his political party is known for.

"Need we tell him and his sponsors that they cannot secure the political victory they could not win at the polls and at the tribunal by telling lies and half truths on the social media as regards the well thought out palliative arrangement in the state," the statement added.

The statement recalled that another CDA boss in the same Obafemi Owode Local Governments, Mr. Timothy Agboola, who had made similar remarks later retracted all he said.

Mr. Agboola, it would be recalled later discovered that many bags of rice were shared in his community while the one given to him was meant for just one vulnerable family.

A rejoinder by the LGA said all groups were equally represented at the stakeholders meeting and committee set up by the government to monitor the distribution of the palliative across wards, villages, communities and town within the local government.

The groups includes, traditional rulers, Baales, religious body, Community Development Associations, youths, security agencies, market men and women and People Living with Disability.among others

"At no time or place has any community or group been given one 10kg bag of rice as their share of the relief materials as displayed by the CDA chairman.

"We called on the general public to disregard the content of the video and others in circulation. They are not the true reflection of the palliatives sharing mechanism.

"Governor Dapo Abiodun is doing everything possible to bring succour to the generality of our people, including the introduction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and electric powered tricycles and motorcycles to reduce the cost of transportation to the barest minimum in the state," the statement said.

Succour As Senate Promises Action On Lagos-Ota-Abeokuta Expressway, Other Dilapidated Federal Roads In Ogun
...as Gov. Abiodun expresses frustration at obstacles faced in reconstructing FG roads

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio has promised to give the necessary support to the Ogun State Government on the reconstruction of all the deplorable federal roads in the state.

Akpabio stated this at the grand finale of the Yewa Cultural Festival with the theme: "Celebration of Culture, Tradition, Music, Cuisine and Dance," held at the ultra-modern pavilion, Empire Field, Ilaro-Yewa, Ogun State on Saturday.

The senate president was particular about the Lagos-Ota-Aneokuts roa, even as he affirmed that all hands would be on deck to ensure the completion of the road.

He said that he insisted on driving to the venue for him to have first-hand knowledge of what people go through on the road every day, adding that it took his team more than two hours to drive to Ilaro from Lagos.

Akpabio promised that the Senate would ensure that the construction of the road is handed over to a competent contractor, adding that they would work with the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun to ensure its completion.

He said: "The 10th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is going to get the list of things you want us to do here.

"I saw the road, two trucks fell on the road, so we ended up spending over two hours on the road. I was determined to go through the road that you go through. Now, I have seen what you have been seeing. From today, I prophesy that your roads are done.

"Yewaland has the greatest number of industries that local government can ever have in Nigeria, just five local governments. Therefore, we recognize the need to use the best set of contractors to do your roads because of the wear and tear. I assure you that we will be working with our brother, Dapo Abiodun. Your lives will not be the same again."

Senator Akpabio used the occasion to advise youths in Yewaland and the state as a whole to stay off drugs and other fraudulent activities, assuring them that their lives would be better when they stayed clean.

"For the youths of Yewaland, I will advise you, never engage in anything that will bring disrepute to your domain. Don't do drugs, no banditry, no kidnapping, no fraud. I assure you that the blessings of God will be upon you," he said.

Earlier in his remarks, Governor Abiodun pleaded with the Senate to prevail on the Federal Government to transfer the reconstruction of the Lagos-Ota-Abeokuta Road to the state because of its importance to the socio-economic development of the state.

The governor said it took him three hours to drive from Abeokuta to Ilaro, noting that efforts made by the state to ensure the transfer of the road did not yield any positive results.

Prince Abiodun said that his administration is currently concluding discussions on the reconstruction of the Abeokuta-Olorunda-Imeko and the Abeokuta-Iborro-Ilaro roads.

He said: "I also want to announce to you that I am currently concluding discussions with the Minister of Works on the reconstruction of the Abeokuta-Olorunda-Imeko road and the completion of the Abeokuta-Iborro-Ilaro road. This will complement the Imasayi-Iborro-Ayetoro road.

"Mr Senate President, it took me three hours to get here from Abeokuta. I am sure it took you just as much to get here from Lagos because of the deplorable state of Lagos-Abeokuta Road. Mr Senate President, please help us with the Federal Government to transfer this road to us. This road is very key to our socio-economic economic development."

The governor disclosed that the construction of the Sagamu-Obele road has commenced, using the Dangote Cement Company tax credit scheme.

"I am proud to say that the construction of Sagamu to Obele road that I personally facilitated in 2019 when I assumed office in partnership with Dangote Cement Company using the Federal tax credit scheme has begun," he said.

The governor also noted that the Ilaro-Owode road is nearing completion in line with his promise to put an end to the era of only performing groundbreaking in Yewaland.

Prince Abiodun promised that his administration would continue to support various cultural initiatives to keep the identity of the people of the state intact.

Earlier in his remarks, the Olu of Ilaro and paramount ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle commended the Senate President and the governor for attending the grand finale of the festival.

He disclosed that the festival will be held every two years.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of an award of excellence on Governor Dapo Abiodun and the installation of the Senate President as the Are Fiwagboye of Yewaland.

Breaking: Full List Of Gov Abiodun's Cabinet To Be Sworn-in Friday

Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, will tomorrow , Friday inaugutate his cabinet by swearing in 20 Commissioners-designate and Special Advisers.

See Full List Below:

COMMISSIONER NOMINEES

1 Mr. OKUBADEJO, Oladapo
2 Mr. OLABIMTAN, Olaolu
3 Jagunmolu OMONIYI, Jamiu Akande
4 Engr. AKINSANYA, Adebowale O.
5 Mr. OGUNGBADE, Olusina
6 Dr. COKER, Tomi
7 Prof. ARIGBABU, Abayomi
8 Hon. HAMZAT, Ganiyu O.
9 Engr. TAIWO, Oludotun
10 Mr. SOFELA, Adebola Emmanuel
11. Hon. (Mrs) ILORI-ODUNTAN, Olufemi
12 Hon. (Mrs) ADELEYE, Motunrayo Adijat
13 Engr. DAIRO Olugbenga
14 Hon. OWOTOMO, Bolu
15 Mr. ORESANYA, Oladimeji
16 Hon. BALOGUN, Ademola
17 Mr. FAGBAYI, Sesan
18 TPL ODUNLAMI, Olusoga Olatunji
19 Hon. (Mrs) EFUWAPE, Olufunmilayo Temidayo
20 Hon. ISIAKA, Wasiu

SPECIAL ADVISER NOMINEES

Arch Biodun Fari-Arole
Hon. (Otunba) Babatunde Olaotan
Mr. Dayo Abiodun
Mr. Olusola Subair Kamar (AIG RTD)
Chief Segun Fowora
Babatunde Akeem Adesina
Princess Peju Shote
Hon. Tajudeen Egunjobi
Dr. Leke Otegbeye
Ayotunde Olambiwoninu Lawal
Hon. Kayode Akinmade
Oyindamola Oyelese
Ap Biodun Sanyaolu
Mr. Seyi Ogunseye
Hon. Adebiyi Adeleye
Hon. Rasak Oluwakemi Daddah
Chief Jide Ojuko
Sola Arobieke
Dr. Reuben Olurotimi Ogungbe
Yemisi Dawodu
Ronke Soyombo
Abayomi Hunye

https://punchng.com/abiodun-to-swear-in-new-cabinet-members-friday/?amp

Shettima Promises Adequate Power Supply To Industrial Clusters, Others

...holds business roundtable in Agbara, Ogun State

The Federal Government has assured investors in the country of the determination of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration to ensure adequate power supply across the country especially in industrial clusters.

Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, gave the assurance during the Agbara Business Roundtable held in Agbara, Ado-Odo-Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State on Thursday, saying the country holds tremendous opportunities for not only investors but also the people.

The event was to launch an initiative to ensure dedicated power supply to industrial clusters across the country, starting with Agbara Industrial Estate.

Shettima said that it is embarrassing that the Agbara Cluster relies on other sources of power supply aside from the national grid, adding that the Federal Government through the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) is committed to ensuring that clusters like Agbara benefit from a cheaper means of generating power in their various factories.

The Vice President, who is the Chairman of, Board of Directors, of NDPHC promised that the Agbara Industrial Estate will have a steady power supply in the next four months.

He said: "I am here to reassure the business community that we mean business. I want to give you my word and my word is my bond, if you need 200 Megawatts, 300 Megawatts, we can give it to you.

"Be rest assured, we are going to supply your power needs with no strings attached. We are giving power to Togo, I think we are giving 100 Megawatts to Togo, and some of these nations are not even paying us. Why can't we give to businesses that will pay us? It is just simple arithmetic; it is a matter of economics."

The Vice President charged the staff of NDPHC to double their effort by ensuring the delivery of the Agbara Industrial Cluster power program in three to four months.

Shettima spoke of the commitment of President Tinubu to make power available to the entire country.

"It is all about advocacy, it is about people believing in you and I have the confidence of my boss, such that I can talk authoritatively. He is very passionate about the Nigerian project. He is very committed to repositioning this nation," he said.

In his remarks, the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun said that without electricity, all infrastructure provided for the use of the people of the state and the country as a whole would be in vain.

Governor Abiodun, while disclosing that his administration has established additional industrial clusters, said that without stable and reliable power, all the initiatives would be in vain.

"We believe that such initiatives like this speak to ensuring the sustainability of competitive industrialization and one must not but salute this initiative.

"We as a state have gone ahead besides this Agbara Cluster, we have five other clusters. We have one by the Interchange called Remo Cluster, we are creating a new one called the Magboro Cluster. We are creating our own Aerotropolis which is our special agro-processing zone, which will be the first of its kind in Nigeria. We also have the Ijebu-Ode cluster because we believe that it is through these clusters that we can jump-start socio-economic activity.

"These clusters, what do they seem to do, we provide the parcel of land, provide the needed infrastructure and this attracts industrial activities.

"But, without a doubt, without stable, reliable and clean power, all these initiatives will be in vain. So, to that extent, we are extremely excited," he said.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwoolu represented by his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat said ensuring adequate power supply in the country is complex because of the attitudes of Nigerians.

Hamzat regretted that out of about 13,000 Megawatts available, the country could only transmit 4,000 Megawatts.

"The issue of our power is complex and why it is complex is because of bad behaviour among all of us, the stakeholders, the distribution companies, generating companies.

"For me, the biggest challenge that we see in our country now is public commentary. We have a lot of people that go out there to just say things, demeaning our institutions and that is the biggest challenge.

"When the international community do surveys, they listen to your news and then you keep killing your country. The truth of the matter is that Lagos and Ogun states are safer than New York. The possibility of being shot in New York is higher than being in Lagos.

Minister of Power, Mr Bayo Adelabu on his part said the event marked a pivotal moment in the collective endeavour to fortify one of the backbones of the industrial landscape of the country.

He noted that the project stands as the first of many projects in the federal government's light-up initiative to deliver reliable electricity to industrial and heavy user clusters across the country.

Adelabu noted that Agbara is a cluster where dreams are forged, industries thrive and where opportunities are limitless, adding that the ambitious endeavour when completed will bolster the power supply within the industrial estate by ensuring a reliable and uninterrupted flow of electricity to meet the demands of the industries.

Earlier in his welcome address, the MD/CEO, of NDPHC, Chiedu Ugbo disclosed that the event signifies the commitment of the present administration through NDPHC to ensure consistent and reliable power supply to industrial concerns.

He added that the company is the only government-owned company responsible for implementing the integrated power project of the government which aims to enhance electricity generation.

Ugbo said that the primary objective of the initiative was to ensure a consistent, reliable and cost-effective supply of electricity from power plants across the country to the extensive industrial and business clusters in Agbara and across the country.

He noted that NDPHC has successfully constructed about 8 power plants with a combined capacity of approximately 4,000 Megawatts.

Shettima Promises Adequate Power Supply To Industrial Clusters, Others

...holds business roundtable in Agbara, Ogun State

The Federal Government has assured investors in the country of the determination of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration to ensure adequate power supply across the country especially in industrial clusters.

Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, gave the assurance during the Agbara Business Roundtable held in Agbara, Ado-Odo-Ota Local Government Area of Ogun State on Thursday, saying the country holds tremendous opportunities for not only investors but also the people.

The event was to launch an initiative to ensure dedicated power supply to industrial clusters across the country, starting with Agbara Industrial Estate.

Shettima said that it is embarrassing that the Agbara Cluster relies on other sources of power supply aside from the national grid, adding that the Federal Government through the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC) is committed to ensuring that clusters like Agbara benefit from a cheaper means of generating power in their various factories.

The Vice President, who is the Chairman of, Board of Directors, of NDPHC promised that the Agbara Industrial Estate will have a steady power supply in the next four months.

He said: "I am here to reassure the business community that we mean business. I want to give you my word and my word is my bond, if you need 200 Megawatts, 300 Megawatts, we can give it to you.

"Be rest assured, we are going to supply your power needs with no strings attached. We are giving power to Togo, I think we are giving 100 Megawatts to Togo, and some of these nations are not even paying us. Why can't we give to businesses that will pay us? It is just simple arithmetic; it is a matter of economics."

The Vice President charged the staff of NDPHC to double their effort by ensuring the delivery of the Agbara Industrial Cluster power program in three to four months.

Shettima spoke of the commitment of President Tinubu to make power available to the entire country.

"It is all about advocacy, it is about people believing in you and I have the confidence of my boss, such that I can talk authoritatively. He is very passionate about the Nigerian project. He is very committed to repositioning this nation," he said.

In his remarks, the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun said that without electricity, all infrastructure provided for the use of the people of the state and the country as a whole would be in vain.

Governor Abiodun, while disclosing that his administration has established additional industrial clusters, said that without stable and reliable power, all the initiatives would be in vain.

"We believe that such initiatives like this speak to ensuring the sustainability of competitive industrialization and one must not but salute this initiative.

"We as a state have gone ahead besides this Agbara Cluster, we have five other clusters. We have one by the Interchange called Remo Cluster, we are creating a new one called the Magboro Cluster. We are creating our own Aerotropolis which is our special agro-processing zone, which will be the first of its kind in Nigeria. We also have the Ijebu-Ode cluster because we believe that it is through these clusters that we can jump-start socio-economic activity.

"These clusters, what do they seem to do, we provide the parcel of land, provide the needed infrastructure and this attracts industrial activities.

"But, without a doubt, without stable, reliable and clean power, all these initiatives will be in vain. So, to that extent, we are extremely excited," he said.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwoolu represented by his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat said ensuring adequate power supply in the country is complex because of the attitudes of Nigerians.

Hamzat regretted that out of about 13,000 Megawatts available, the country could only transmit 4,000 Megawatts.

"The issue of our power is complex and why it is complex is because of bad behaviour among all of us, the stakeholders, the distribution companies, generating companies.

"For me, the biggest challenge that we see in our country now is public commentary. We have a lot of people that go out there to just say things, demeaning our institutions and that is the biggest challenge.

"When the international community do surveys, they listen to your news and then you keep killing your country. The truth of the matter is that Lagos and Ogun states are safer than New York. The possibility of being shot in New York is higher than being in Lagos.

Minister of Power, Mr Bayo Adelabu on his part said the event marked a pivotal moment in the collective endeavour to fortify one of the backbones of the industrial landscape of the country.

He noted that the project stands as the first of many projects in the federal government's light-up initiative to deliver reliable electricity to industrial and heavy user clusters across the country.

Adelabu noted that Agbara is a cluster where dreams are forged, industries thrive and where opportunities are limitless, adding that the ambitious endeavour when completed will bolster the power supply within the industrial estate by ensuring a reliable and uninterrupted flow of electricity to meet the demands of the industries.

Earlier in his welcome address, the MD/CEO, of NDPHC, Chiedu Ugbo disclosed that the event signifies the commitment of the present administration through NDPHC to ensure consistent and reliable power supply to industrial concerns.

He added that the company is the only government-owned company responsible for implementing the integrated power project of the government which aims to enhance electricity generation.

Ugbo said that the primary objective of the initiative was to ensure a consistent, reliable and cost-effective supply of electricity from power plants across the country to the extensive industrial and business clusters in Agbara and across the country.

He noted that NDPHC has successfully constructed about 8 power plants with a combined capacity of approximately 4,000 Megawatts.

Petrol: Nigeria under siege of global cabal; Tinubu must be decisive- Jackson Lekan Ojo

A leading security expert and chieftain of the All Progresives Congress(APC), Jackson Lekan Ojo, has said the problem within the petroleum industry in Nigeria is complex and multifaceted, as a result of conspiracy between the Nigeria's economic saboteurs and global cabal.

He explained that in as much as the importation of petroleum products are still in the hands of those economic saboteurs who were hitherto milking Nigeria dry through fraudulent means like subsidy, the petroleum sector can never enjoy stability.

Ojo opined that by the removal of subsidy on petrol in line with the deregulation policy of the Federal Government, the beneficiaries of the fraudulent deals in the sector with their foreign collaborators will do everything possible to frustrate
the system to their advantage.

According to him, these saboteurs by their ill-gotten wealth had taken Nigeria's economy in its jugular by infiltrating every segment of the economy and planting moles there who they use as tools to frustrate every effort of the Federal Government towards sustainability.

The security expert, then advised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in the oil sector and be decisive about it, by working with the National Aseembly to enact a legislation that will prescribe death penalty for any saboteurs in the sector.

He said that would serve as deterrent to members of this cartel who are strangulating Nigeria's economy and making it unstable by their nefarious activities.

"It is obvious that the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is directly proportional to the downfall of this cabal and their foreign collaborators, they will definitely do everything possible to frustrate the efforts of the President in order to retain their source of ill-gotten wealth, this is why the President should be very decisive.

"There are lot of questions begging for answers in the petroleum industry, especially in NNPC, while they claim they are not producing at all, their staff continue to get fat salary, where are they getting the money from?

"The simple analogy is when a yam farmer is not planting any yam on the farm and he continues to pay his labourers constantly and handsomely, is that not strange?

"The same thing is happening in the power sector, the President must be decisive and take hard decision", Ojo said.

Nasarawa's Tribunal Verdict: CSO appeals for critical evaluation of dissenting judgement at appellate court

...hails Justice Ibrahim Mashi

Advocacy for Advancement of Peace & Harmony in Africa Initiative (ADAPHAI), a leading Civil Society Organization in Nigeria has called on the appeal court to critically evaluate the dissenting judgement delivered by Justice Ibrahim Mashi, on the basis of its inherent fundametals and strengths in the face of law.

The group observed that the majority judgement delieved by Justice Ezekiel Ajayi, on Monday, October 2nd, which faulted the victory of Governor Abdullahi Sule and subsequently declared the Governorship Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) winner, deliberately ignored some salient objections as raised by the respondents.

ADAPHAI, made these known during a Press Conference addressed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Sulaimon Suberu on Sunday in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.


It argued that the judgement largely predicated on technicalities, adding that the dissenting judgement clearly raised certain pertinent issues that need to be painstakingly reviewed and addressed by the appellate court.

"While we believe in the sanctity of the judiciary and it's pivotal role as the pillar of democracy, we are however, of strong opinion that unlike States like Kaduna, Sokoto, Taraba and Ogun, with almost the same contents of petitions, the judgement in Nasarawa State did not completely and thoroughly dwell on the merit and competence of the petitions before it.

"Our methodological evaluation of the tenets of the judgement revealed that it majorly predicated on technicalities, thereby jettisoning the substance of the petitions on the point of law and it's intrinsic values.

"First and foremost, the absence of prior declaratory relief setting aside Governor Abdullahi Sule's election and return is indeed a remains a source of concern to us, as well as how the judgement allowed evidence without written depositions on oath by subpoenaed witnesses called by the petitioners to stay.

"Other fundamental area of concern is the brutal manner in which objections to admissibility and tendering of documents as raised by respondents were ignored among other pertinent issues of law.

"Having said that, we salute the courage, resilience and bias for truth, objectivity and fairness as exhibited by Justice Ibrahim Mashi, in his dissenting judgement; obviously, history will never forget him.

"It is on that prism that we call on the appellate court to critically and objectively look into the logic and substance of the dissenting judgement delivered by Justice Ibrahim Mashi, as a way of upholding the unassailable principles of fairness and objectivity inherent in the judiciary, as a very revered arm of government.

"In the meantime, we passionately appeal to the good people of Nasarawa State to remain calm and be law abiding, as Governor Abdullahi Sule still remains the Executive Governor of the State in the face of law.

"We want to assure them that the judiciary, as the last hope of the common man will address every wrong in the Tribunal's ruling of Monday at the Appeal Court without fear of favour and with the merit of the case.

"We, hereby passionately implore their Lordships at the appeal court to critically look at those fundamentals and treat it accordingly on its merit", the statement read.

Ogun Ranks 6th in Socio-Economic Scorecard Among 36 States, FCT



Analysts Data Services and Resources has ranked Ogun State 6th out of 37 States in the just released Socio-Economic Scorecards of Nigerian States.

Ogun State, under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, came top in the Financial Sector; third in Capital Importation; third again in Industrialization & Business Competitiveness; fifth in Citizens' Livelihood & Welfare; fourth in ICT Infrastructure and fifth in Education.

In the area of the financial sector, Ogun State came tops with 65.6 percent, followed by Kaduna with 62.4 percent, while Oyo came third with 62.0 percent.

The Ogun State came third in capital importation with 61.1 percent. The State was only beaten by Lagos State, which came first with 68.7 percent and FCT, with 67.8 percent.

Again, the Gateway State came third in Industrialisation and Business Competitiveness with 61.5 percent, behind Lagos State with 70.1 percent and Oyo State with 62.9 percent.

The state came fifth in Citizens' Livelihood & Welfare, with 53.7 percent, while the state was placed fourth in ICT Infrastructure with 73.6 percent. In education, the state secured the fifth position with 60 percent.

Ogun State also scored high in Land, Housing and Sanitation where it placed fifth with 50.3 percent, and 11th in Energy and Environment (48.9 percent).

“Ogun ranks 6th, having an overall score of 52.50%, which is higher than the average score of 45.65% for all states. The strongest segment in Ogun is ICT infrastructure where it ranks 4th while the weakest is transportation where it ranks 32nd. The state scores higher than average in ICT infrastructure, financial sector, and industrialisation and business competitiveness, but lower in other segments,” it said.

Overall, Lagos came first with 62.38 percent, followed closely by the FCT with 58.58 percent, Oyo third with 54.61 percent, Rivers with 54.01percent came fourth, while Kano came fifth with 52.65 percent.

“A total of 57 indicators were used in the construction of the Scorecard across 12 key broad socio-economic segments; namely: i) Economic Output; ii) Government Finance; iii) Financial Sector; iv) Capital Importation; v) Land, Housing and Sanitation; vi) Transportation; vii) ICT Infrastructure; viii) Energy and Environment; ix) Industrialisation and Business Competitiveness; x) Education; xi) Health; and xii) Citizens’ Livelihood and Welfare.

“The most recent values on each of these 57 indicators are compared and the States and FCT ranked from 1 to 37 depending on how well they perform relative to one another. These ranks are then averaged across the indicators for each state and FCT under the relevant segment as shown in equation,” the Data Services said.

Abiodun commiserates Ogunbanwo family over demise of their patriarch, Chief Christopher Oladipupo

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has described the death of Chief Christopher Oladipupo Ogunbanwo as a great loss to the State, Nigeria and humanity.

Prince Abiodun, while commiserating with the family of the late business tycoon, who passed on to glory on Saturday, said he was a worthy son of Ogun State and a great philanthropist of note, while alive.

The Governor, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Lekan Adeniran, in Abeokuta on Sunday, added that Chief Ogunbanwo distinguished himself as a very cerebral lawyer who combined the knowledge of law with entrepreneurial shrewdness.

Governor Abiodun prayed God to grant the family of the late philanthropist the necessary strength to bear the irreplaceable loss and an eternal rest for the departed soul in the bosom of the Lord.

"My heartfelt condolences to the entire dynasty of Ogunbanwo, over the passing of their patriarch who passed on to the glory few months to his 100th birthday.

"We take solace in the fact that Baba lived a very impacful and eventful life to the glory of God and selfless service to humanity.

"May God in his infinite mercy rest his soul and grant his family the requisite fortitude to bear the irreparable loss," the statement read.

Abiodun doles out N55m In ScholarshipTo Indigent Students In Memory Of Late Son

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has instituted a Scholarship Award scheme for 550 indigent students in Remo Federal Constituency of the state in honour of his late son, Gbemiga Abiodun, who died six years ago.

The scholarships cover pupils in primary and secondary schools as well as those in vocational and tertiary institutions.

The scholarship was spread across all schools in its coverage area.

Speaking at the launch of the Gbemiga Abiodun Education Scholarship Award held at Iperu, Ikenne Local Government Area, Prince Abiodun said the scheme will ensure that brilliant students and those whose parents could not afford to educate them, have access to quality education.

According to him, the number of beneficiaries will increase to 1000 in the next 12 months, which will be the minimum at any given time.

He also promised that the scholarship would be extended to the other federal constituencies in the state for maximum spread.

He said: "It is against this backdrop that my family came up with a scholarship scheme called GBEMIGA ABIODUN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP AWARD, in memory of our son, Gbemiga Abiodun, which is strictly for indigent learners of Public Primary, Secondary Schools, Technical College and Tertiary Institutions, as well as Special Needs Learners within Ikenne, Remo North, and Sagamu Local Government Areas, to provide support to selected learners who are from the aforementioned local government areas of Ogun State.

"The Award is in two phases. The first phase is to be a Scholarship Award, designed for indigent and brilliant students while its alternative form; the second phase will be a Bursary Award for in-need but not necessarily brilliant indigent students whose chances of upward socio-economic mobility are probable with bursary support.

"This Scholarship award is designed for a period of three (3) years and within the age bracket of 6-25, and selection will be determined by the State Ministry of Education Science and Technology, using the Cumulative Promotion Examination Result obtainable from the OGSERA platform while the beneficiaries for tertiary institutions were recommended by their respective institutions."

The governor described education as the only light to the future of prosperity, development and peaceful co-existence, noting that the programme was conceived to celebrate the impactful and eventful life of Gbemiga Abiodun and all that he stood for while alive, adding the deceased lived a life of selflessness, consistency and scholarship.

"Olu, beyond his popular choosing career as a Disc Jockey had an unwavering passion for sound education, which he pursued passionately till God called him to be with him on that fateful day of 7th October, 2017.

"It is instructive to know that Olu's choosing career as a Disc Jockey was a product of his innate passion for music and rhythms at a very tender age; the passion he consistently pursued to the apogee," the governor added.

Prince Abiodun who decried the low enrollment of girls in male dominated trades in Technical Colleges and Vocational Centres compared to boys, also regretted that despite the free education policy of his administration and students in higher institutions paying less, many basic school completers are hindered from proceeding beyond junior or secondary schools and acquiring tertiary education.

He called on the beneficiaries to make the best of the scheme to better their lots, saying it is the best way his family would keep the memory of the deceased alive.

In her opening remarks, the wife of the governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, said the scheme is to impart on the lives of the beneficiaries and their parents, especially at these trying times, expressing the hope that the scheme would achieve it purpose of bringing succour to the benefiting families.

Giving a brief on the Scheme, the Special Adviser to the governor on Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, said scholarship is being sponsored entirely by the Dapo Abiodun family.

He explained that 200 learners from public primary schools would receive the sum of N50,000 each, to take care of their educational materials, 200 students from public secondary schools would get N100,000 for their educational materials, while100 students in tertiary institutions would be paid N250,000 each to take care of their educational needs.

Arigbabu explained further that a dedicated account would be open for beneficiaries in the primary and secondary schools to be disbursed by their head teachers and principals, while those in tertiary institutions would receive theirs personally.

Prof. Arigbabu while thanking the governor and his family for the gesture, said winners were chosen by the Ministry of Education Science and Technology based on their academic records, using the Cumulative Promotion Examination Result obtainable from the OGSERA Platform while the beneficiaries for tertiary institutions were recommended by their respective schools.

World Teachers' Day: Abiodun employs 3000 teachers, presents houses, cash to teachers, schools

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has approved the immediate employment of 1000 Ogun Teach Interns to mark this year's World Teachers' Day.

The gesture is meant to improve the pupil-teacher ratio and to fill the existing vacancies in public schools.

The governor also approved the engagement of 2,000 new OGUNTEACh applicants to the already engaged 2000 interns as well as a bungalow and cash prizes to teachers who did the State proud in the course of discharging their duties.

Prince Abiodun disclosed this at the year 2023 World Teachers' Day celebration with the theme: "The Teachers We Need for Education We Want; the Global Imperative to Reverse Teachers Shortage," held at the Oba's Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

The governor said the appointment of the new teachers takes immediate effect, adding that the administration is doing everything possible to improve the lots of teachers.

He said: "It is my great joy to announce to you that Ogun State will be having an education summit soonest, for cross-fertilizing ideas by critical stakeholders in the sector, to proffer workable solutions to how to improve our education sector beyond this point and institutionalize the desired excellence in all our schools in line with the dreams of our founding fathers.

"To complement this initiative, we will be inaugurating an education trust fund to fund education infrastructure across the various levels. Also, a special committee on the rehabilitation of public schools to complement SUBEB's interventions will be inaugurated soon."

The governor reiterated his administration's high premium on the welfare and wellbeing of teachers just as it continues to prioritise education to be in the first line charge in expenditure for the state and in all the local governments to bridge the gap of deficit in the sector.

While reeling out some achievements in the education sector, Governor Abiodun said his administration has embarked on the training of 750 science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) teachers in a new teaching pedagogy called PSI-PMI to suppress the conventional approach of teaching, especially in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education.

To encourage teachers to perform optimally, the governor said he has directed the release of promotion letters for 2021-2022, two months of leave bonuses for public servants, and N10,000.00 payments to all public servants and pensioners in the state.

"Our government also procured and installed the Education Management Information System (EMIS) equipment and gadgets to aid data collection, collation, and analysis in the education sector across the 20 LGEAs, among many interventions to prepare our students to compete with their peers around the world and also provide an enabling and conducive working environment for our teachers to contribute their best."

The governor emphasized that as a responsive government, it is convinced of the need to better the lots of teachers to compensate for their selfless contributions to the upliftment of society, as the future of the children depends on the level and quality of their productivity.

While stressing the need to address the shortage of teachers in Nigeria's education sector and that of the sub-Saharan Africa, the governor quoting data from the United Nations Education, Science and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), said 69 million teachers are needed mostly from sub-saharan Africa to reach universal basic education by 2030, while additional 24.4 million teachers in primary education and some 44.4 million teachers in secondary education are needed to achieve universal basic education by 2030.

"According to the data unveiled for 2022 World Teachers' Day, 5.4 million teachers are needed at the primary level in sub-Saharan Africa and 11.1 million teachers at the secondary level if we are to achieve the targets set by the 2030 Agenda," he added.

In his welcome address, the Special Adviser to the governor on Education, Science, and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu described teachers as great patriots who are in the business of molding young minds, appreciating them for their efforts in maintaining the State's standard of education.

In his goodwill message, the state Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Abiodun Akinola, lauded Governor Abiodun for keeping fate with the annual event and for sustaining the Excellency Awards for best teachers and school administrators in the state, calling on the government to employ more teaching staff to reduce the workload of the existing ones.

The State Chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUS), Comrade Felix Agbesanwa on his part stated that Nigeria and the world at large is facing the challenge of unprecedented shortage of teachers, adding that this year's celebration was to stop the decline in the number teachers and to showcase practice that would attract, retain and motivate those in the teaching profession.

Agbesanwa commended the Governor for implementing five years of promotion in four years for workers in the state, and for abolishing all levies in schools as well as initiating through the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, various policies and interventions geared towards increasing students Higher Education Potential in the state.

Highlights of the occasion was the presentation of keys of 2-bedroom bungalows to Mr. Akeem Badru, the first African winner of the Cambridge Dedicated Teacher's Award and the best overall Teacher in public primary school from Egba Division, Mr.Togbe Ganiyu.

Others were cash prizes of N2 million to Mr. Amosun Temitope Olaoluwa as best teacher in junior secondary school from Remo, N2 million for Mr. Ganiyu Wasiu, as best teacher, senior secondary school category from Egba Division.

Ajayi Abosede emerged the best primary school administrator from Egba division with a cash prize of N1 million, Samza Omolara from Ijebu Division emerged the best school administrator in junior secondary school, while Kusimo Oluseyi was adjudged the best administrator in senior secondary school from Egba division with N1 million.

Baptist High School (Junior), Saje, Abeokuta, emerged the best in public secondary school and took home N7.5 million, followed by Remo Secondary School (Senior), Sagamu, which also went home with N7.5m.

Angela Otabo from Egba Division went home with N500,000 having emerged the best teacher in the private school category.

Abiodun Promises More Developmental Projects, Says Tribunal Judgment Diligent, Meticulous

...as civil servants welcome him to Oke Mosan

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has stated that his administration would build upon the successes recorded in the last four years.

Speaking at a special program organized by civil servants to welcome him after his victory at the Ogun State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal on Saturday, Abiodun expressed gratitude to the judiciary for the transparent judgement that affirmed his victory.

"Yes, we worked very hard in the first four years of our tenure against all attempted distractions. We worked very hard on our re-election. We campaigned across the nooks and crannies of the state and we won that election fair and square.

"But, some mischievous individuals decided that, that defeat was not enough for them, they had to go to court, having failed to purchase that election. I want to thank the Almighty God for yet again reaffirming our victory through the 3-man Ogun State Election Tribunal that delivered its eleven-and-a-half-hour judgement on Saturday, the 30th September.

"We thank the judiciary for standing for what is true and just. It was a diligent, meticulous and transparent judgement, leaving no one in doubt, except for those that want to continue to be mischievous," he said.

He called on all his adversaries to set aside their grudges against him and join his administration in moving the state forward.

"In the area of infrastructure, we will continue to surpass every other state. In the area of education, we will ensure that Ogun State occupies its pride of place in the comity of states, not just in Nigeria, West Africa or Africa, but the entire world.

"In the area of youth development and job creation, we will remain relentless and will soon be announcing some of the packages that we have for our youths in the coming weeks," the governor added.

The Governor further reiterated his commitment towards fulfilling the promises made to the people of the state, especially in the areas of infrastructural development, education, youth development, and job creation.

He also emphasized his avowed resolve to make Ogun State the number one investment destination in the country, while maintaining a transparent and fair administration.

The Governor, also commended the state civil servants for their dedication and cooperation.

The State Head of Service, Mr. Kola Peter Fagbohun, in his remarks congratulated Governor Abiodun and assured him of the support and commitment of civil servants in the State.

Ogun: IPAC lauds Tribunal's verdict, congratulates Gov. Abiodun

....insists Ladi Adebutu must return home to face charges of electoral malpractices

The Inter Party Advisory Council(IPAC) in Ogun State, has commended the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in the State over its Saturday's verdict, which upheld the election of Governor Dapo Abiodun.

It would be recalled that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and it's candidate in the March 18 governorship poll, Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu, had petitioned the Tribunal citing some alleged irregularities.

Subsequently, the 3-man panel, in it's ruling that lasted for almost 11 hours unanimously dismissed all the three grounds canvassed by the petitioners, for lack of merit and incompetence.

Meanwhile, addressing a press conference in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, on Tuesday, the IPAC's State Chairman, Engr Samson Okusanya, described the statement credited to PDP after the judgement, which discredited the verdict, as docile and out of crass ignorance from political merchants.

Okusanya, said contrary to the claims made by Adebutu and his team of lawyers that the verdict of the Tribunal was based on technicalities, the rulings were actually predicated on fairness and objectivity on the point of law.

"Ogun State IPAC, wouldn't have dignified this beer parlour publication laced with deliberate falsehood or considered it necessary to react to such an epistle of personal bitterness, ignorance and complete unintelligent outburst from those Political traders, Buccaneers, Scavengers , emergency democrats, political predators , misfits and pedestrian politician, but for the benefit of the few in the public who may innocently be misinformed by this ethically rusty and morally depraved social misfit and miscreants.

"We find their arguments empty and blind, where they claimed they were perplexed by the Tribunal's reliance on technicalities involving procedural issues and semantics of the interpretation of words over the substance and core realities of the case.

"Ladi Adebutu and his team of Lawyers ought to have known that law and facts are not based on technicalities but rather on fairness and objectivity of the legal process which stipulates that the petitioner ought to have front- loaded certain information in the petition.

"Or did our laws not state emphatically that HE WHO ALLEGES MUST PROVE?

"The Tribunal's verdict on Ladi Adebutu petition clearly revealed that the petition contained so many procedural flaws with antecedents interpretation of words. The subsequent dismissal of the substantive suits is therefore right in the eyes of the Law", IPAC averred.

It, therefore, commended members of the panel for treating the petitions on its merit and with analytical minds, saying the verdict was a watershed and point of reference; that is even as it called on other political parties to join hands with Governor Dapo Abiodun to move the State to an enviable heights.

IPAC, also called on Adebutu to return home from his present sojourn abroad as fugitive, following allegations of vote buying and money laundering levelled against him by security agencies, and discontinue his plan to approach the appellate court for further litigation.

It continued: "We salute the Judiciary and most importantly the members of the Tribunal led by Justice Kunaza and other members for a job welldone. The judgment was indeed watershed as it was deep, analytical and fair in all ramifications. We make.bold.to say it is worthy of emulation.

"At this juncture, we call on the 3 remaining opposition Parties in Ogun State to support the dream of H.E Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, in order to further move Ogun State forward. The wishes of the people of Ogun State have been upheld by the Tribunal and as such, all well meaning stakeholders in the state must drop their hatchets and join Governor Dapo Abiodun's march to prosperity.

"The PDP and her candidate, Hon. Ladi Adebutu, should by now realisze that Ogun State is not a commodity for purchase. We implore him to discontinue his sojourn abroad as fugitive, and immediately return to Ogun State in Nigeria to join hands to build our dear state. He should as a matter of importance, discontinue his planned wild goose chase at the appellate Court and accept the will of God.

"It's a known fact that Mr Adebutu is being hunted by the vote buying allegations which has been investigated by different relevant agencies thus it expedient for him to turn himself in.

"We, therefore, congratulate Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, for the victory of Saturday, and urge him to continue to demonstrate good leadership in Ogun State and remain focused in transforming the State".

This is the day the Lord has made. We thank and give all the glory to the Almighty God for this judgement and for not allowing us to be put to shame.


I congratulate all of us again on our second gubernatorial electoral victory as painstakingly and meticulously affirmed by the Ogun Governorship Election Tribunal today.


We were never in doubt that our hard-earned victory would be affirmed as we placed our trust in God, having worked the hardest, campaigning in every nook and cranny of Ogun State . We won fair and square. We earned it and deserved it .You are all witnesses of the triumph of tenacity and of our resolve and determination.


I want to appreciate the judiciary, particularly the three tribunal judges led by Justice Kunaza, for not just dispensing justice but doing so transparently, diligently and thoroughly . I thank our team of very experienced, learned and respected lawyers led by Chief Olanipekun SAN and Prof Osipitan, Kalejaiye , Muiz Banire , Akinlawon, Fasanu, Ogunwunmiju and Ikpeazu, all SANs, and the juniors and all others here today for their professionalism.


I would like to thank the entire APC led by Baba Osoba and the Chairman of the party, Chief Yemi Sanusi, for providing me with a strong platform to stand on, and for their support.


I particularly thank those that were in court faithfully throughout all the proceedings. I want to thank members of my cabinet: my SSG, DCOS, CEA, Attorney-General designate , Commissioner-designates, Advisers and other appointees for standing by me with unwavering faith.



And definitely not the least, I want to appreciate all the members of my family: my Mum, my wife, my children, my siblings and of course all my friends, the good people of Ogun State that voted me in, and all other well wishers for all your prayers, good wishes and support throughout this period .This is a victory for democracy, victory for rule of law and judiciary; a victory for our great party, APC and victory for Ogun State.



We hope that the petitioners /distractors having failed to buy the election and the judgement under the guise of exercising their fundamental human rights will now, in the spirit of patriotism, congratulate and join hands with us in implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda. We are committed to the irrevocable implementation of our vision through our ISEYA mantra for wholesome development of our state. I will remain fair, just, equitable and inclusive. I again reiterate that no part of this state will be developed at the expense of another. I will be Governor of all. We have three years and eight months left to fulfill all our electoral promises made in the course of campaign.


Omo Ogun, ISEYA … Igbega Ipinle Ogun, Ajose wa ni.

Ogun: Get Your Facts Right Before Making Comment-Akinmade Implores Stakeholders

The Chief Consultant on Media to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Mr Kayode Akinmade, has urged social commentators and other critical stakeholders to always get their facts right before making comments on issues concerning the State.

He explained that the trend and pattern of commentary on recent issues at the front burner of discourse in the State were majorly based on vague understanding and incomplete information, resulting in blunders and fallacies, especially on the false allegation made by the impeached Chairman of Ijebu East at Government, Wale Adedayo, against the Governor over diversion of local government allocations.

Akinmade insisted that Adedayo must have been used by certain people to score cheap and covert political points against Governor Abiodun, saying the allegation made by the former council chairman was baseless, unfounded and mindless.

The media guru, who spoke on Television Continental's morning programme, 'The Breakfast Show', on Friday added that because Adedayo was blatantly lying and being mischievous, he could not provide a single evidence to substantiate his claim against the Governor weeks after making his weighty allegation.

He, however, said that he was highly disappointed by some comments on the matter from certain individuals who were supposed to know better but based their opinions on the issue on mere hearsay and illogical sentiments.

He pointed out that Adedayo goofed when he alleged zero allocation to local governments in the state since he was elected in 2021.

According to him, local government workers, primary school teachers, and traditional rulers get their salaries regularly, while pensioners also receive their pensions as , and when due, which punctured the claim of zero allocation.

He added that Adedayo, when he was chairman received N3 million monthly as security vote along with his salaries.

Akinmade noted that all these were made possible because the state government was augmenting the federal allocation to the local governments since 2019 as a result of the shortfall in revenue occasioned by COVID-19.

"It is very unfortunate that certain people who society holds in high esteem and supposed to be agents of social order and egalitarian society are now becoming purveyors of falsehood and subjective narration out of preconceived bias.

"These individuals, instead of embarking on painstaking investigation to ascertain the facts of the matter, choose to ignore the noble path of confirming the truth and will come to the public space to embarrass themselves when they speak on the position of emptiness and vague understanding rather than the strength of information.

"Let me make it abundantly clear that the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, is a man of due process and thoughtfulness; he will never be involved in any unwholesome activities and will always uphold transparency and accountability at all times.

"In that wise, I want to say that Governor Dapo Abiodun is too clear-headed to be stampeded by commercialized comments and opinions laced with bias and innuendos.

"We, therefore, advise those in the habit of making hasty conclusions on issues concerning our State without thorough investigation to always get their facts right before commenting," Akinmade stressed.

CSOs Petition Senate, Accuse Gbenga Daniel Of Plot To Destabilize Ogun State


Twenty-one pro-democracy organizations have petitioned the Nigerian Senate, accusing a former Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel of plotting to destabilise the state.

The groups said Daniel, who is the Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District is creating tension in the Gateway State by his incessant attacks on the state government and Governor Dapo Abiodun.

Speaking on behalf of the groups after submitting the petition in Abuja on Friday, Comrade Johnson Okuwatobi said the Senate must call Otunba Daniel to order.

He noted that Ogun State has been peaceful, devoid of any political gangsterism until recently.

The groups, in their petition, said: "We wish to bring to the attention of the Nigerian Senate and the general public the worrisome actions and statements being made by Senator Gbenga Daniel, which have now contributed to the creation of tension and division within Ogun State.

"Over recent months, Senator Gbenga Daniel has engaged in a series of public attacks on Governor Dapo Abiodun, resorting to inflammatory rhetoric and actions that are detrimental to the peace and progress of Ogun State. These actions have created an environment of unnecessary tension and conflict within the state.

"As advocates for peace, unity, and responsible governance, we firmly believe that political disagreements should be addressed through lawful and democratic means, rather than through the incitement of discord and public acrimony. The people of Ogun State deserve leaders who prioritize their welfare and development over personal or political rivalries.

"In light of these concerns, we hereby petition the Nigerian Senate to call Senator Gbenga Daniel to order, over his actions and statements, which have undermined the peace and stability of Ogun State. We call on the Senate to assess whether his conduct is consistent with the standards of ethical behaviour expected of a member of the Senate."

The groups also urged all political stakeholders in Ogun State to prioritize the well-being of the people and engage in constructive dialogue and cooperation for the betterment of the state.

Ogun State, the groups added, deserves leaders who work together for its progress and prosperity.

"We hope that the Nigerian Senate will act swiftly and decisively to address this matter and ensure that our democracy is strengthened through the promotion of responsible and respectful political discourse," they added.

The petition was signed by Campaign for Democracy and Justice, Centre for Human Rights and Justice, Sustainable Initiative for Good Governance, Activists for Good Governance, Media Rights Concern, Lawyers Network for Change, Coalition of Democrats for Good Governance, Centre for Justice, Lagos, Democratic Youth Council, Coalition for Good Governance, Media Rights Concern among others.

Abiodun Assures Of Stable Power Supply To Boost Manufacturing


Better days are ahead for Small and Medium Scale Enterprises and other manufacturing companies as Ogun State Government said it is committed to building power infrastructure that will guarantee stable electricity supply across the State.


Governor Dapo Abiodun stated while speaking as the special guest of honour at the 38th Annual General Meeting of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Ogun State chapter held at the Conference Hotel, Abeokuta.


Abiodun, represented by the Secretary to Ogun State Government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi, said the government is taking full advantage of its opportunity as the state with the widest gas reticulation in Nigeria to address the menace of irregular power supply saying when the issues of high cost of petroleum and irregular power supply is adequately tackled, it will forestall the high rate of unemployment and insecurity.


The Governor said: “We cannot pretend not to be aware that many manufacturing firms hitherto operating in Nigeria have folded up due to irregular power supply and the high cost of petroleum products, a situation that has resulted in high unemployment and insecurity.


“It was with that determination to change the narrative and redirect the economy for greater performance in the real sector that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government summoned the courage to address the age-long conundrum in the upstream sector of our oil industry through the deregulation policy that led to the removal of subsidies.”


Abiodun enjoined MAN not to hesitate to interface with the federal government on initiatives they know will impact the sector positively while appealing to members of the association all over the country to support the present administration at the federal level.


Speaking as the guest lecturer at the event, a foremost Economist and Managing Director/CEO, Financial Derivatives Co. Ltd, Mr. Bismarck Jemide Rewane said the manufacturing sector has mostly underperformed in the last five years, highlighting some of the reasons to include the Covid-19 pandemic, Russia-Ukraine war as well as forex scarcity.


Rewane said the nation is at a crossroad as the naira is undervalued at 32 percent but acknowledged that the new administration at the federal level has taken a bold step in implementing some key market reforms, reducing the level of market distortion in the economy among others.


The renowned economist advised the federal government to continue on reforms, including rescheduling its debts, institutional reforms, increase private investment in power sector, enumerating the catalyst for growth, road concessioning, implementing the 2023 Electricity Act, digital innovation, boost investment flows, pay at least N75,000 as minimum wage and block revenue leakages among others.


The Chairman, MAN, Ogun State chapter, Mr George Onafowokan in his address, noted that the immediate implementation of the dual policies of Naira devaluation and subsidy removal without putting in place appropriate buffers for all sectors of the economy has caused inflation levels to sky rocket and has put immense strain on the manufacturing sector.


Onafowokan further commented on the high power costs, high interest on loans, post and custom related issues as well as multiple taxes as banes to necessary growth in the sector, urging government at all levels to be committed to engendering policies that promote local survival of companies and facilitate export, simplify the prices for qualifying for loans from government financial institutions coupled with other real sector friendly fiscal and monetary policies to revive and strengthen the manufacturing sector.

Wale Adedayo's false allegation against Gov. Abiodun is politically motivated - Akinmade

The Chief Consultant on Media to Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, on Wednesday, said the allegation of diversion of local government allocations against the governor by Mr Wale Adedayo, was politically motivated.

He asserted that contrary to the false claim, the Governor had augmented several shortfalls in allocations to Local Governments from the Federation Account to the tune of N17 billion from the inception of his administration in 2019 till date.

Speaking in an interview on Raypower FM programme, Facts File, as well the Yoruba version on Faaji FM, Akinmade noted that Adedayo was out to tarnish the image of Governor Dapo Abiodun for parochial political motives.

He noted that allocations to Local Governments remain practically inaccessible by any State Governor, going by the recent amendment to extant laws regarding allocations to the third tier of government.

This, he said, followed agitation by some Local Government Chairmen.

The media expert explained that a special committee, known as the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC), which comprises all the 20 Local Government Chairmen across the State, members of NULGE, NUT, and Traditional Institutions among others were statutorily saddled with the responsibility of deciding on the sharing formula without any interference of the Governor.

Akinmade, copiously reeled out the sequence of allocations to local governments since the inception of Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration in 2019, indicating a series of interventions by the Governor to augment several shortfalls, occasioned by shortfall in federal allocations, contrary to the claim of diversion by Adedayo.

"The reduction in allocations to States is not peculiar to Ogun State and I can tell you with facts and figures that between 2019 till 2021 and 2022, Governor Dapo Abiodun had to augment the shortfall in all allocations to Local Government to the tune of N17 billion.

"For instance, in July 2019, allocation to Ogun State was just N3.4 billion and the first line charges were N3.5 billion, while the PAYE that was supposed to be paid to government was N146 million. The government had to augment it ditto for August, September and so on. In August of that year, the allocation was N3.2 billion while the wage bill was N3.3 billion. A shortfall of N900 million had to be paid by the government.

"The government continued to augment these allocations to ensure that workers in the local governments were not left out from regular payment of salaries, until recently when the new administration came on board in May and there was the removal of subsidy and the allocation improved to the range of N4.5 billion, " Akinmade disclosed.

Reacting to the question of a possible communication gap between the Governor and Wale Adedayo, which perhaps informed his actions, Akinmade said the impeached Council Chairman had unrestricted access to the Governor, based on their long-time relationship.

He continued: "I have known the Governor and Wale Adedayo since 1996. He presented Governor Dapo Abiodun as his brother to me; that they both came from the same place.

"I later came to realize that Wale Adedayo is one of those people the Governor loved so much. He first made him his media Consultant before supporting him to become the Chairman of his local government. He is one of those who can call the Governor three times a day.

"Also, among the 25 meetings of JAAC held since Adedayo emerged as Chairman, he attended 15, so, he can't claim not to be aware of how allocations were distributed, he was always part of the process.

"Also, this is the man who collected N3 million every month as security vote and despite that, he could not account for the sum of N5.2 million he collected from the Council to execute a project, which led to his impeachment by the council's lawmakers.

"Meanwhile, let me make it clear here, that on the false allegation he made against the Governor, he must come up with evidence to prove his claim. After all, he is a journalist. He knows very well that whoever makes an allegation must be ready to prove it.

"If he fails to come up with evidence and prove the allegation he made against Governor Abiodun, he should be prepared to face the consequences," Akinmade concluded.

You Are A Shining Light In Christendom, Abiodun Tells Oyedepo At 69

Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has described the founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, as a shining light in Christendom.

He described the Bishop as a great man of God and an educationist worth emulating.

Abiodun stated this in his goodwill message to mark Bishop Oyedepo's 69th birthday.

The governor, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Lekan Adeniran, praised Bishop Oyedepo's commitment to God, saying he daily motivates his congregation and the larger society to live a purposeful life in accordance with God's plan.

"Your teachings have transformed the lives of many and have shaped the destiny of our nation.

"As a preacher, you exemplify excellence and have been a source of inspiration to many. Your commitment to the spread of the gospel has not only brought salvation to countless souls, but it has also helped shape the moral fabric of our society," Abiodun said.

He said that through his involvement in the education sector, the man of God has succeeded in producing many scientists, bankers, lawyers, administrators, among others, adding that one of his universities has consistently been ranked among the best in Africa.

The governor also commended Bishop Oyedepo's humanitarian efforts, particularly through the David Oyedepo Foundation, which provides scholarships, medical and entrepreneurial support to thousands of people.

"I am grateful for your contributions to the development of Ogun State, particularly in the area of education. Your investment in Covenant University and other educational institutions in the state have greatly impacted the lives of our youth and have helped to raise the standard of education in the state," Abiodun said.

He prayed that God will continue to bless Bishop Oyedepo with good health, wisdom, and divine guidance as he continues to impact lives and fulfil his divine mandate.

Abiodun prayed for God's continued blessings and guidance upon the Bishop, as well as for more years of impactful service to humanity.

"Once again, I wish you a happy 69th birthday, and I pray that God will grant you many more years in good health," Abiodun concluded.

Bishop David Oyedepo, who is also the Chancellor of Covenant University and Landmark University, was born on September 27, 1954, in Omu Aran, Kwara State, Nigeria.

He founded the Living Faith Church Worldwide, also known as Winners' Chapel, which has grown to become one of the largest Christian denominations in Nigeria and the world at large.

Ogun Signs MoU With Indian Auto Firm On Production Of CNG Mass Transit Buses

Ogun State Government at the weekend signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ashok Leyland of India for the supply of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) mass transit buses in the state.

Secretary to the Ogun State Government (SSG), Mr. Tokunbo Talabi represented the state government at the signing ceremony, while Mr. Rajesh R, Head and Senior Vice President, International Operations, signed for Ashok Leyland.

The signing of the MoU signalled the commencement of the project aimed at delivering public transport system (mass transit buses and transport infrastructure) in the state.

The MoU is a fallout of the high-level meeting, which the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun held with potential investors on the sidelines of the Nigeria-India bilateral meeting held in Delhi, India.

"This MoU is in line with the ISEYA agenda of His Excellency aimed at operationalisation of the approved multi-modal transport master plan for Ogun State connecting air, road, sea, and rail," Talabi said.

According to Mr. Talabi, the state will receive more CNG buses when the project fully comes on stream.

This would further reduce the cost of transportation in the state for the benefit of residents, he added.

"Furthermore, the parties will explore areas of collaboration, including the potential setup of a CKD plant for the buses and will create over 2,000 jobs when fully executed," he added.

The meeting also had in attendance, Mr Dapo Okubadejo, Chief Economic Adviser and Finance Commissioner designate; Special Adviser on Justice and Commissioner Designate, Oluwasina Ogungbade (SAN); Engr. Gbenga Diaro, Commssioner for Transportation Designate; Adebola Sofela, Commssioner Designate and Technical Adviser on Projects, Mr. Seyi Ogunseye.

From Ashok Leyland were; Mr Amandeep Singh, President, International Operations, LCV, Defence and PSB; Mr Sujan Roy, Head Projects; Mr Manu Vijay Kumar, Senior Manager, Projects; Rajeev Narayan, Deputy General Manager and Head West and Central Africa; Yash Pal Sachar, Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Raveen Bawamkule, Global Sales and Distribution.

Sunday, September 24, 2022

Press Statement (immediate release)

Ogun PDP nest of cultists

-Ogun APC, urges security agencies to dig deeper

The Ogun State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been described as a “nest of cultists” that needs to be further investigated by the security agencies in order to make more arrests and stem the tide of cultism in the state.

In a statement issued in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, on Sunday and signed by its state publicity secretary, Tunde Oladunjoye, the party while commending the recent arrest of the PDP lawmaker representing Sagamu Constituency One at the the State House of Assembly, Damilare Bello (alias “Dre”) and five other notorious cultists wanted by the security agents at the official residence of the lawmaker in Abeokuta, urged the security agencies not to leave any stone unturned in its investigation of the recent cult violence in Sagamu and other parts of the state.

The statement read further: “Cultism is a menace that deprives the society of peace; kills and maims cult members and even the innocent non-members, cutting down the youths at their prime. It cannot be tolerated, no matter whose ox is gored”, the statement said

“It is no longer a rumour that notable members of the rag-tag PDP in the state are involved in cultism as high ranking members in their various local government areas. We urge the securtiy agencies to track and monitor the type of meetings the so-called honourable members are holding, hosting and presiding over in their constituencies.”

“The PDP after it’s ramshackle petition at the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, after losing all its 11 petitions in the national assembly elections against APC, has resorted to high level of absurdity in its vain attempt to distract the Administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun. It was therefore, not surprising that the PDP rushed to town, via preemptive paid adverts, to cry wolf over the recent unwholesome and violent cult clashes in Sagamu and attempted to mischievously tag the APC. It shamelessly tried to link its failure at the polls with the cult clashes. it therefore became ironical when the top brains behind the Sagamu cult clash, after fleeing Sagamu, became the “special guests” of the PDP House of Assembly member, who was using his official quarters to provide cover for the Sagamu escapees.

“Suddenly, the PDP that urged the security authorities to do their jobs, is now blackmailing the same authorities when its House of Assembly member and other top cultists have been arrested in the residence of the assembly man. It is most shameless that the PDP even pronounced that “no weapon was found on the cultists”, against the discovery by the Department of State Security (DSS) that effected the arrest of the senior cultists.

“Our position that there have always been a strong hand behind the Sagamu violence, especially the burning of more than ten banks purportedly over naira-swap protest, has been vindicated. No amount of lies and blackmail should deter the law enforcement agencies from bringing the culprits to book.

“Part of the strategy of these top members/sponsors of the cults, especially in Sagamu, has been to travel out of the country when the planned clashes are being effected, and later return to claim alibi. It is a pattern that could easily be verified by the investigators.

“The wizard cried yesterday and the child died today, it is not too difficult to trace the killer of the child. In Ogun State, for the cultists and their sponsors, the chicken has come home to roost. The PDP cult masquerades are being unveiled and the security agents should go the full hog.”

Return Of Amosun's Loyalists: Abiodun Displays Exemplary Political Maturity-Group

A youth group within the All Progressives Congress (APC), APC Progressive Front, has commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for what it termed an exemplary attribute of political maturity he displayed over the weekend.

It would be recalled that hundreds of APC members, loyal to ex-governor Ibikunle Amosun, across all the 20 local governments in the State, led by the one time Chairman of the party, Chief Derin Adebiyi, were on Friday received back to the mainstream of the party by Abiodun, alongside the Chairman of APC in the State, Chief Yemi Sanusi, and other party bigwigs.

In a statement signed on Sunday by its coordinator, Rasheed Sanusi, and made available to newsmen in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, the group lauded the leadership capacity displayed by the governor, saying it is unprecedented in the political space of the state

According to the statement, the governor has proved his capacity as a leading figure in progressive politics beyond every reasonable doubt, adding that it is now incumbent on the returnees to reciprocate the gesture and prove their loyalty to the party.

It opined that the action of the governor has given new hope of a better future to the party in the state and an undiluted testament that APC is truly a progressive party with clear-cut ideology based on popular interest.

"Prince Dapo Abiodun has truly proved himself as a leading democrat among his contemporaries. He has achieved what other leaders before him could not achieve; he has indeed redefined progressive politics in Ogun State.

"The Governor has exhibited unprecedented magnanimity in power and in governance. No one could have imagined that a governor of a state would navigate such level of gang up and conspiracy within the party to win an election, and after the victory, he decided to reconcile with those who worked against him and warmly received them back to the party.

"The Governor has taught us a big lesson of inclusive governance and purposeful leadership. He deserves an award in progressive leadership. He remains an institution to study," the statement read.

The statement further noted that the party remains a formidable force in the state with focus on aggressive development of infrastructure and human capital through the 'Building our future together' agenda of the governor.

Abiodun pays glowing tribute to late Alaperu's wife, harps on enduring legacies

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has extolled the exemplary virtues of the late wife of the Alaperu of Iperu, Olori Kehinde Idowu Basibo-Odoru, describing her as a strong pillar for her husband and a unifying factor for the entire royal family while alive.

The late queen was born on April 23, 1962 and passed on at the age of 61 on 27th July, 2023; as funeral and thanksgiving service was held in her honour on Friday at the St. James Anglican Church, Iperu, Ogun State.

The Governor, in his remarks expressed his heartfelt condolences to the royal father, Alaiyeluwa, Oba Adeleke Idowu-Basibo, and the people of the town over the loss, as he prayed for necessary fortitude to carry on in her absence.

He recounted the enviable attributes of the late Olori while alive as bold, lovely and supportive; with passion to help those around her, adding that she would be sorely missed by her immediate family, the entire town of Iperu and Ogun State in general.

"On behalf of the government and the good people of Ogun State, I want to express my heartfelt condolences to my brother, the Alaperu of Iperu, Oba Adeleke Idowu-Basibo, on the passing of his adorable wife.

"The late Olori was a friend and reliable companion to her husband till death, she was also a doting mother to her children; we are going to sorely miss her; may the good Lord repose her soul", Abiodun said.

The Governor, subsequently counselled the congregation on the need to be fair to all in all ways while alive, for the purpose of leaving a worthy legacy after death as exemplified by the late queen.

He continued:" Life is a journey, we all have our exit points, we have no power over that, it is inevitable; what is important is what we do while we are here, what type of tribute would be written about you when you are no more".

Wale Adedayo Vs Ogun State Governor and Ors: Court strikes out Motion on Notice praying for Interlocutory Order

The Ogun State High Court sitting in Ijebu Ode has, earlier today, struck out the Motion on Notice dated 6th September, 2023 filed by the impeached Chairman of Ijebu East Local Government, Mr. Wale Adedayo, upon the withdrawal of same by the Applicant’s lawyers.

When the case came up for hearing today, Mr. O.T Are, representing the Applicant, told the court that the Motion on Notice has lost its relevance since the Applicant has been impeached and therefore applied to withdraw the Motion on Notice as it has been overtaken by event.

The lawyers to the defendants, Mr. Olusegun Olaotan who is the Solicitor General of Ogun State, who led Mr Adekunle Emmanuel, Assistant Director of Civil Litigation and Mr C O. Obi, Senior State Counsel for the Defendants/Respondents, did not oppose the application for withdrawal. The said Motion on Notice was therefore struck out.

Counsel to the Applicant informed the court that he has just been served a Notice of Preliminary Objection by the Defendants/Respondents and would therefore need a date to respond to same.

The case was therefore adjourned till October 27, 2023 for hearing of the Originating Summons dated 6th September, 2023. The court also urged Counsel for both parties to be prepared to address the Court whether the proceedings has not become a mere academic exercise by the fact that the Litigant/Applicant has been impeached.

Thousands Dump Amosun, Re-Align With Abiodun

Thousands of loyalists of former governor Ibikunle Amosun from the 20 local government areas of Ogun State have rejoined the mainstream of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by the State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.

Receiving the returnees led by the factional Chairman of the Amosun-led party Executive at the Presidential Lodge, Abeokuta, the State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun commended them for their loyalty and being steadfast with what they believed in.

The governor said: "I want to congratulate your sense of loyalty to leadership, which I will say is not only commendable, it is enviable.

"This is a culture that we must promote and entrench. It is a culture that is fast eroding; it is a culture that we are fast losing. Loyalty is 100 per cent.

"For some others, they move once things are not working well, but for you, you stay put. This sense of loyalty is worthy of emulation. We must appreciate the fact that there can only be one leader in a party at a time.

"Even when we have ambitions and desires, we must subordinate ourselves 100% to leadership and believe that it is in that subordination that will allow us to flourish and achieve our objectives, our dreams, our desires and aspirations, not by forming factions or by breaking away.

"Because by so doing, it only weakens the fabric of that collective union that we call our party. You must appreciate that there can be only one leader of the party at a time in the state, and that leader is the governor.

"As the leader of the party, I appreciate the task bestowed on me and it is my duty to work towards individual and collective welfare of our members," the governor noted.

The governor urged all members to put the past behind them and work towards repositioning the party to achieve its aims and work for the socio-economic development of the state.

"Let us the past behind us. Let us promote what unites us as a family. I welcome you back. The future of Ogun State is in your hands and it is for us for the taking. The same joy the father of the prodigal son received his lost son back home, the same way I receive you today.

"To those who did not leave, please let us receive our brothers and sisters back. To those who are joining us, please let us display a sense of loyalty. I can assure you, you will be fully integrated. "

Chairman of the State All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Yemi Sanusi, said in every human relationship, there is bound to be disagreement, adding that even in time of war, there is always a place for peaceful settlement of conflict, calling the returnees to fully integrated themselves with other members of the party.

Leader of the returnees, Chief Derin Adebiyi, said they have all agreed to return to the mainstream to contribute to the development of the party and the State in general, thanking the governor and the party members for receiving them back.

Security Operatives Cracked Down On Sagamu Cultists, House of Assembly Member, Six Others In DSS Net

Security operatives in Ogun State on Wednesday tracked six suspected cultists, allegedly involved in the violence that erupted in Sagamu at the
weekend to the official residence of a member of the state House of Assembly.

The member, representing Sagamu State Constituency (1), Hon. Damilare Bello Mohammed, was alleged to have provided shelter to the fleeing cultists.

A team of security operatives, in a sting operation after a tip-off, arrested the suspects in the premises of the lawmaker.

Those arrested, according to sources, include Damilare Bello Mohammed aka DRE, Debbo Animashaun, Bamidele Saheed, Ismaila Onitire, Adewale Otesanya and Tobi Owoade.

They are presently undergoing interrogation at the Department of State Service (DSS).

Sources revealed that many dangerous weapons, including guns, were recovered from the suspects.

It would be recalled that Hon. Bello was arrested by the DSS for masterminding the violent protest that took place in February this year in Sagamu over the naira redesign policy by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

During the protest, irate youths vandalised about 10 banks and other public infrastructures.