₦airaland Forum

Ballots printing allegations, Superflux threatens legal action, says it's barbaric

A leading security printing company, Superflux Nigeria Limited, has described as barbaric and spurious, allegations that the company was contracted to print ballots papers by the Independent National Electoral Commission ( INEC) and in the process favoured certain candidates in the just concluded 2023 general elections.

It also frowned at being tagged as conduit for money laundering, siphoning COVID19 funds, saying such allegations are clearly handiworks of mischief makers and traducers who were hell bent to tarnish the reputation of the company before it's numerous customers and that of it's former Director, who is presently the Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi.

The company, averred that it's response became necessary in the interest of the teeming members of the public who have deep trust in it's longstanding integrity as well as it's esteemed partners who understand the excellent reputation of the company.

According to the statement signed by the company 's Managing Director, Gabriel Okwonko, contrary to dangerous rumour making the rounds about being used to siphon COVID-19 funds, the company generously donated millions of naira to various beneficiaries during the pandemic, in line with the conviction on its corporate social responsibility.

The statement added that a sum of Twenty Million naira was donated to Ogun State, the transaction it said was doctored by mischief makers to look as if money was sent to the company from the state's purse, wondering why adversaries of it's former director would come up with such lies for the purpose of blackmail.

The statement read:"To address these absolutely false allegations, obviously being cowardly peddled by faceless fellows, we wish to state as follows:

"Our Company is extremely mindful and jealously guards the responsibility the nature of our business puts on us as a corporate entity in the interest of our esteemed customers and the general public.

"Contrary to the false and malicious allegations making the rounds, we state emphatically that our Company has NEVER and will NEVER be used as a conduit for money laundering or a vehicle for syphoning public funds or any illegitimate funds at all.

"We find the false allegation that our Company retained ballot papers in the 2023 elections for the use and benefit of a particular candidate both disturbing and astonishing; as it is totally false in all ramifications.

"For the records, our Company states categorically that it was not contracted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), (the agency in charge of electoral affairs in Nigeria with mandates to conduct elections) to print ballot papers for ANY elections during the 2023 electoral period.

"We therefore did not print any ballot paper for for Ogun state and as such the opportunity did not arise. Therefore, the false claim by the pliable section of the media that we produced extra ballot papers and fed a parallel channel is not only baseless and false, but also aimed at achieving sinister purposes.

"We state without fear of contradiction that Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, our erstwhile director resigned in June 2019 to pursue other causes of interest to him and his resignation was accepted by our Board of Directors who wished him well in his endeavors.

"We further find assertions of being used as a conduit for syphoning COVID19 Funds, a fund meant to support and rescue the world at the time of an explosive pandemic that claimed lives and brought businesses as well as daily life to a grinding halt, totally appalling, illogical, barbaric, extremely distasteful and blatantly false.

"In actual fact, our Company as a responsible corporate entity had, despite the low business tempo of the business environment, decided to support various communities and institutions in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. As a very humane company and being socially responsible, we have in recent past, embarked on various projects, interventions and donations. One of these is the N20 million donation to Ogun State Covid 19 Funds on April 6, 2020, which the hack writers and their collaborators found convenient to omit because of their evil intention.

"In the same vein, another two million one hundred thousand naira was donated in the same manner and for the same purpose but different beneficiary on April 9, 2020.
All donations made by us were naturally debited in our accounts but, in their mischief, the fake news peddlers presented them as collections/credits.

"We find objectionable, the intrusion into our privacy and we are resolved to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to book and our legal advisers have been briefed accordingly; and surely appropriate steps will be taken against these criminals.

"Finally, we thank our customers for their continuing support and hereby warn the peddlers of malicious falsehood to desist from circulating these spurious allegations as we shall not hesitate to take legal steps in the interest of our reputation, business and integrity".

Ogun: WAEC presents certified true copy of Abiodun's certificate to tribunal

An official of the West Africa Examination Council (WAEC ) Mr Fasasi Sarafa, on Friday appeared before the governorship election petition tribunal sitting in Abeokuta metropolis, to present the certified true copy of governor Dapo Abiodun's WAEC certificate to the panel.

The examination council was subpoenaed to tender Abiodun's O level certificate following allegation of certificate forgery levelled against the governor by one of the witnesses called by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the course of proceedings at the tribunal.

All counsels to the respondents expressed no objection to the certificate tendered, but counsel to petitioners, Gordy Uche, SAN, said he had reservations concerning the copy of certificate brought by WAEC in comparison with what was earlier submitted by counsel to Governor Dapo Abiodun.

In his reaction, counsel to Dapo Abiodun, Prof. Taiwo Osipitan, applied to tender the two copies of the certificate, which is the scanned copy earlier submitted and the CTC brought by WAEC, urging counsel to petitioners to view the documents with high level of objectivity.
He, also informed the court that the 2nd respondent was ready to open his case, adding that he would close his case between Tuesday and Wednesday next week as he applied for an adjournment for his client to have enough time to prepare witnesses.

Meanwhile, a witness, Alowolodu Jimoh, an APC ward collation agent from Sagamu, appeared before the panel to testify in favour of his party and alleged that electoral process was disrupted by hoodlums who were opposed to the use of BVAS at his polling unit. The witness was cross examined by counsels to respondents.

Under cross examination by the counsel to Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Olumide Ogidan, who asked him if the election was free and fair, the witness answered in affirmative, he, however, posited that the process was disrupted by opposition to use of BVAS in some polling units which made all parties in the election to be awarded the score zero by INEC.

On his part, counsel to the 3rd respondent, Tayo Oyetibo, SAN, asked the witness to show the tribunal his INEC agent card, which was tendered and subsequently marked as an exhibit RA4.

In it's ruling, the tribunal admitted the scanned copy of the subpoena issued on WAEC, and marked it Exhibit RA1 while the original acknowledged copy was admitted and marked Exhibit RA2. The Governor’s result as produced by WAEC was marked Exhibit RA3.

Tribunal therefore, adjourned till Monday, 7th August, 2023.

NIPSS Course Participants Laud Ogun Industrialisation Policies

The Study Group One, Senior Executive Course 45 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) has commended the economic policies of the Ogun State government pointing out that the legal environment has greatly influenced industrialisation, provided tax breaks as well s duty- free imports.

The Lead presenter of the group, Col. Ibrahim Yusuf stated this while presenting a report of the Local Study Tour of Ogun State at a ceremony held at the Institute in Kuru, Jos, Plateau State.

Col. Yusuf who noted that part of the objectives of the study was to discuss the strategic environmental, historical perspective and trends in industrialisation, energy security and climate change in the state, affirmed that it has a favourable legal environment for energy security as seen in the state’s energy policy which aims to enhance energy efficiency and promote renewable energy source.

According to him, the Ogun State has done well in the promotion of the Nigerian Industrial Revolution plan through the creation of enabling environment and supporting impressive progress in enhancing domestic resource mobilisation through the strengthening of tax administration and other innovations which has led to a substantial increase in internally generated revenue.

Col. Yusuf also observed that the growing involvement of the private sector as well as partnership with development partners, including multilateral and bilateral institutions would provide valuable technical assistance, financial support and knowledge exchange opportunities which would foster sustainable development in the state.

He said: "Ogun State prioritizes industrialisation, energy security and sustainability. The state seeks to promote renewable energy and form partnerships to enhance energy security. While the state is vulnerable to climate change impacts like flooding and extreme heat, the government has taken proactive steps to address climate change's immediate and long-term effects by protecting agriculture and livelihood."

He, however, stressed the need to put in place a legal framework to address climate change.

In his remarks, the Director General of the Institute, Professor Ayo Omotayo, described the report on Ogun State as objective pointing out that the economic policies of the Prince Dapo Abiodun-led administration had impacted positively on industrial growth.

In his speech, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, described NIPSS as the apex centre for policy, research and reflection for a better Nigeria pointing out that the recent visit of the course participants to the state had enabled them to have first-hand information on the policy drive of his administration in the area of industrialisation, energy security and climate change which was the theme of their study.

The governor, who was represented by the Head of Service, Mr Kolawole Fagboun accompanied by the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Political Affairs and Administration, Mr Kehinde Onasanya at the event, said the state would continue to attract meaningful investment based on the creation of enabling environment and infrastructural development as encapsulated in the ISEYA mantra

Prince Abiodun, however, charged the Institute to foster a strategic partnership with Oba Sikiru Adetona's Institute for Governance Studies in the advancement of leadership skills, good governance and national development.

According to the governor, the Oba Sikiru Adetona Institute for Governance Studies situated at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago iwoye should be explored to enable civil and public servants as well as other interest groups to benefit from the quality of training and knowledge offered by the NIPSS.

Fuel Subsidy Removal: Abiodun Assures Labour Of More Palliative Measures

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has assured labour unions and residents that his government is intensifying efforts to ameliorate people's sufferings occasioned by the fuel subsidy removal.

The governor made this known while responding to the demands of the labour unions, who were on a peaceful protest at the Governor’s Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Abiodun, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr Tokunbo Talabi said the state government had never taken the welfare and well-being of the people of the state for granted, noting that all hands are on deck towards making life more bearable for them, particularly at present.

The state helmsman highlighted some of the immediate measures put in place to cushion the effect of the fuel subsidy removal to include, cash palliative of N10,000 for each public servant and pensioner, approval of hazard allowance for all health and medical personnel, approval of peculiar allowance for public servants, immediate release of 2021 and 2022 promotion letters, and many more.

He added that to ensure the palliative measures go around all strata of the society, his administration approved immediate cash-backing for the quarterly payment of gratuities to pensioners, while the modalities for the commencement of food palliatives to the vulnerable were in top gear, as Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government were to work out off-duty for 20 per cent of their staff, to ease the effect of the fuel hike.

"What we are waiting for now, are the resolutions of the meeting between the Federal Government and the labour unions. As soon as a decision is reached, we can then take it up from there. We are not unaware of the momentary pains that come with fuel subsidy removal," the governor said.

Presenting a letter to the governor, the Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ogun State Chapter and his counterpart in the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrades Hammed Benco Ademola and Akeem Lasisi, respectively highlighted some of their demands to include, immediate implementation in good faith of the resolutions with labour congress jointly signed with government and TUC, immediate reversal of all anti-poor policies of government on the recent hike in the price of fuel, school fees and Value Added Tax (VAT), as well as fix the local refineries, among other things.

They pleaded with the state government to act fast on their requests for the overall interest of the people of the state.

Fuel Subsidy: We Have Taken Ownership Of Tinubu's Economic Framework, Says Abiodun

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun said the 36 states have taken ownership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's framework on ameliorating the plight of the people and have begun the implementation of the same.

Prince Abiodun made this known in an interview during the two years memorial service of his father, Dr. Emmanuel Adesanya Abiodun at St. James' Anglican Church, Iperu-Remo.

The governor pleaded with Nigerians to be patient with President Tinubu's administration, saying, "This too shall pass, and we will all be better for it."

Abiodun, while noting that the resultant effect of the removal of subsidy is hard on the people but good for the economy, noted that the federal government action would save the country over N4 trillion and allow the government provide people with programs and projects that would better their lives.

"We have shown that we are very deliberate. We have demonstrated that we feel the pains of our people, and we have done that by being very proactive.

"We sat with the President because he took the decision to remove the fuel subsidy in the best interest of this nation. It was a cancer that was causing this country over N4 trillion as of last year and would have caused over N6 trillion by the end of this year. And he took that bold step to remove it so that we can use that much money toward things that people can see, feel, and touch; things that will be of direct benefit to the common man.

"Like I said earlier, this is just a process of transition. Mr President under his leadership have provided us with a framework. I mean the governors as to what we need to do in our respective states, and we in Ogun State have taken ownership of that framework, and we have begun the implementation of the same.

"We were in Benin Republic recently. In Benin Republic, fuel prices are about N900 to N1000 per litre.

"So Nigeria was busy subsidizing all her neighbours; so he decided to remove subsidy. With that removal, there has been an attendant increase in transportation fares and high costs of food prices, and things have been a bit difficult for our people," he said.

The governor said that his administarion, in line with the president's mandate, has started with the payment of N10,000 transport allowance to civil servants and pensioners.

He also confirmed that he recently had the opportunity of riding an electric-powered motorcycle during his trip to the Benin Republic with President Tinubu, reiterating that Ogun State would soon launch its E-mobility program which would make transportation more economical and affordable for the people of the state.

"We recently began the payment of N10,000 transport allowances to all civil servants and even pensioners. We are a promise-keeping administration. I believe that we have taken very clear and decisive steps that demonstrate our sincerity of purpose.

"I was in Benin Republic yesterday (Tuesday) with the President and I actually rode a bike that is an electric motorcycle, an exact replica of the one that is coming here. I will be launching maybe in two to three weeks," he said.

Governor Abiodun at the service described his father as a peaceful man, whose ministry was teaching and touching lives people.

He added that he has no doubt that his father has gone to join the Saints.

Earlier in his short exaltation, the Vicar, St. James' Anglican Church, Iperu -Remo, Rev. Shadrach Ajileye, said that Dr. Emmanuel Abiodun in his life time, served God and mankind diligently, noting that his death was a great loss not only to the church, but the society as a whole.

According to the cleric, it is imperative for all to impact positively on the lives of others, just as Dr. Abiodun did, adding that what one does while alive would determine how he would be remembered.

Ogun keeps promise, begins payment of N10,000 palliative to civil servants



Ogun State Government has commenced the payment of N10, 000 palliative to civil servants in the State, reports by civil servants in the state have shown.



The move is sequel to the announcement made by last week by the Governor of the State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, while rolling out palliative interventions following the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government.



Disclosing this on Monday, civil servants who spoke on the development expressed delight that the promised palliative fund had started hitting their accounts, saying that this showed clearly that Governor Abiodun is very much concerned about the plight of the people, especially state workers, following the harsh economic climate occasioned by the withdrawal of subsidy on petrol.



They expressed optimism that the state government would continue to prioritize their interests at this critical period.

NSF'2024: Abiodun Inaugurates LOC, Says Ogun Ready To Surpass Past Editions

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun on Monday inaugurated a 16-man Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the 22nd National Sports Festival to be hosted by the state in 2024.

Speaking while inaugurating the LOC at the Governor's Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Abiodun noted that the state is more than prepared to surpass previous editions and the achievements recorded during the last festival held by the state in 2006.

The governor noted that his government is ready to continue to put in place world-class sporting infrastructure across the length and breadth of the state.

Abiodun who also disclosed that the festival isn't about the competition or the performances, noted that the state under his watch is ready to showcase the talent, culture, potential and unique sense of hospitality of the people of the state.

"We are determined to put in place world-class sporting infrastructures across the length and breadth of the state, thus underscoring our determination to ensure that we host a very befitting sports festival to the admiration of all stakeholders in the sector and around the world

"For us in Ogun State, this festival isn't just about the competition and performances, even though we would love to host and win every medal.

"We want to host a National Sports Festival that will showcase the talent, our culture and potential of our great state as well as a very unique sense of hospitality of our people," he said.

Governor Abiodun while noting that the National Sports Festival brings together the energy, and creativity of youths in the country and also serves as a platform for them to showcase their diverse talents and potential, added that hosting the festival is a testament to the commitment of his administration to empower the next generation by offering them the opportunity for growth and self-development.

The state helmsman while urging members of the committee to embrace the responsibility given to them with a deep sense of purpose, noted that their attention to detail, effective planning and seamless execution would be the magic they would need to host a remarkable edition of the festival.

Earlier in his response, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and former Commissioner for Youths and Sports in the State; Bukola Olopade commended Governor Abiodun for bidding and winning the right to host a successful National Sports Festival.
He acknowledged Governor Abiodun for being the first governor in the country to ensure that all its athletes at the last National Sports Festival in Delta State went home with cash rewards irrespective of winning or losing.

"You have achieved two seconds to none already when our athletes came back from Delta State and you announced the reward to the athletes. I know I speak authoritatively when I say that has not happened before in this country where every participating athlete got something to take home despite the fact that they didn't come back home with medals. It has never happened before.

"The second thing you've achieved is to put together your Excellency the aficionados of sports today in Nigeria, the gentlemen and women that are assembled here before you today are literally the best brains and minds in sports today in Nigeria," he said.

L-R: The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youths and Sports; Dr. Yusuff Quudus,Vice Chairman, Ijebu-Ode Local Government; Dare Alebiosu,former Nigerian Sprint Queen; Falilat Ogunkoya(MON), Chairman, National Sports Festival Local Organising Committee; Bukola Olopade, Governor Dapo Abiodun, the Co-Chair of the Local Organising Committee; Adetilewa Adebajo,the Secretary of the committee and Chief Executive Officer, Sporty Connect; Dr. Kweku Adedayo Tandoh,Modele Sharafa- Yusuf and a Retired Civil Servant with the Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports;Dr. Ademola Are during the inauguration of the Local Organising Committee for the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival to be hosted by the state in 2024.

Late Gen. Diya Was A Great Patriot, Says Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the contributions of the former Chief of General Staff, Lt. General Oladipo Diya to the sanctity of the country's territorial integrity as legendary.

President Tinubu who made this known during the final burial service for the late military boss held at the Cathedral Church of St.Paul, Diocese of Ijebu South West, Odogbolu, Ogun State, noted that the life of selflessness and diligence of the late Gen. Diya would remain a reference point for coming generations of military officers.

The President, represented by the Governor of Ogun State; Prince Dapo Abiodun also noted that the late military tactician was articulate and was widely recognized for his strategic thinking and ability to make swift and effective decisions.

"Although it is painful that we lost General Oladipo Diya to the cold hands of death, his eventful, remarkable and impactful life will continue to give us satisfactory succour and the assurance of a paradise for our great compatriot.

"While we deeply mourn the passage of this great Nigerian, we must not fail to consciously celebrate General Diya's life of bravery, discipline, courage, integrity and patriotism.

"General Diya's contribution to the sanctity of Nigeria's territorial integrity as well as his effort towards curtailing several uprisings that threatened the corporate entity of Nigeria are legendary.

"Indeed his life of selflessness and diligence in the service of the military elite remains a reference point for coming generations of military officers and a sort of scholarship material in academia," he said.

Tinubu commended the leadership and tactical prowess of the late Diya which he said greatly contributed to the success of peace missions and gave him accolades both locally and Internationally, even as he noted his implementation of reforms that included improving training programs and welfare for soldiers while in the service of the nation.

Earlier in his message titled; "The end of a fulfilled life", the Bishop of Ijebu South-West Anglican Diocese, the Rt. Revd. Dr. Babatunde Ogunbanwo who read from the Acts of Apostle, chapter 13 verse 36, described the late Chief of General Staff as a patriot who lived a good life, stood for the right things and also cemented his footprints in the history of the country, adding that he served his nation faithfully.

Ogunbanwo also disclosed that the late Lt. Gen. Diya was a Nigerian Hero who was not celebrated during his lifetime, saying that he was bold, disciplined, honest, kind-hearted and never corrupted himself while serving the country.

The late Gen. Diya died at the age of 79. During his lifetime, he held several command positions, including the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 83 Division, Nigerian Army; Commandant, National War College; Military Administrator of Ogun State; Chief of Defense Staff under General Ibrahim Babangida and the Chief of General Staff under the military government of General Sanni Abacha.

Abiodun Sends Names Of Commissioner-Nominees To Ogun Assembly

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has forwarded names of commissioner-nominees to the state House of Assembly.

This was confirmed on Friday by the Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olakunle Oluomo.

Oluomo said that the Assembly received a correspondence from Governor Abiodun requesting the confirmation of commissioner-nominees.

According to a statement by the Clerk/Head of Legislative Service, Mr Deji Adeyemo, the Speaker received the governor’s letter dated 27th of July, 2023 requesting the confirmation of the nominees by the lawmakers.

The governor’s correspondence reads: "I write once again to congratulate Mr. Speaker for your re-election into office as Rt. Honourable Speaker of the 10th Assembly and subsequent inauguration of all members of the Honourable House. I appreciate the Honourable House for the support and cooperation enjoyed during the first term of our administration.

"In furtherance of our mission in building our dear State together, Mr. Speaker, please find attached, the list of nominees for the post of commissioners for your consideration."

The statement clarified that as of the rule, the Speaker would announce the names on the list to the lawmakers at the next plenary day slated for Tuesday, 1st of August, 2023.

Ogun APC to PDP: Stop Circulating Fake Videos, Materials

The Ogun state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged the state’s chapter of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and its minders to stop circulating "fake videos and materials in a desperate bid to mislead their fast disappointed and depleting camp".

A statement issued in Abeokuta on Friday quoted the APC Publicity Secretary, Tunde Oladunjoye, as saying that, "It has been brought to the attention of our party that the defeated and disheveled Ogun state PDP and its minders have been circulating some fake videos and materials that they claimed to have been submitted to the Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Abeokuta.

"The fake videos and materials are being circulated in a desperate bid to mislead their fast depleting and disappointed camp. Without any equivocation, we wish to say that the comical action of the Ogun state PDP is akin to cowards who die many times before their death.

"We wonder why the PDP would resort to sharing doctored videos and materials after it has gone to the tribunal. Is it that the PDP has seen that its wishy-washy petition is heading for the rocks, hence its resort to these theatrics? Is it that the party no longer has faith in the Tribunal, hence the resort to cheap blackmail?

"In any case, who procured and presented the so-called evidence that they are gloating about? Is it not a witness procured, influenced and paid by the same party and it’s candidate? Pray, is it not said that he who pays the piper dictates the tune?

“The so-called expert is not more than someone hawking his evidence or a mercenary who would fight any man's battle for a fee as it were, gives evidence in court to justify his predetermined position and fees collected from the petitioners; and more importantly to ensure the balance of his fees is paid.

“The touted report is therefore tainted. It is obviously not the product of an independent, impartial, detached and professional analysis; as he is already an interested, sponsored and compromised party whose preoccupation is to conceal the truth and work towards the interests of his principals, in this case, the petitioners.

The Ogun state APC urged the PDP to desist from unethical circulation of fake and concocted videos and materials, a practice which the PDP has been known for before, during and after the 2023 general elections .

"Rather, the PDP should prevail on its leader and defeated governorship candidate, Mr. Ladi Adebutu, to return home to honour Police invitation and defend the damning allegations of money laundering and vote-buying hanging on his neck and for which he has been charged to court by the Federal Government ," the party said.

Ogun Tribunal: Gov. Abiodun has excellent O Level results, PDP star witness admits

The star witness of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Oyejide Sukanmi, on Thursday admitted before the governorship election petition tribunal sitting in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, that Governor Dapo Abiodun, performed excellently well after sighting the West Africa Examination Council(WAEC) result belonging to him.

Recall that the PDP and it's governorship candidate in the March 18 gubernatorial poll in the state had alleged that Abiodun forged his WAEC result, thereby should be disqualified.

The star witness, under cross examination by the counsel to the governor, Prof. Taiwo Osipitan, was asked to read out the content of Governor Abiodun's WAEC certificate, which he did and specifically commended the brilliance of the governor.

He, however, said there were certain controversies surrounding the authenticity of the result as claimed by his party, in which he was asked to present a contrary certificate as a proof of the claim but failed to do so.

On the issue of documents tendered by the star witness,counsel to Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) Dr Remi Olatubora, said it should be taken as tendered since several documents have followed that pattern, the position that was maintained by both counsels to Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and All Progressives Congress (APC).

On the video evidence the star witness tendered to claim disruption of voting process, he agreed after being cross examined that it was downloaded from the websites of Arise and Channel Television.

When asked if he knew the type of camera used to produce the video recording, he answered that he did not know.

In the same vein, counsel to INEC, Onyechi Ikpeazu, asked the star witness if he agreed that the video recording was edited and that while the electoral process lasted for almost six hours, the video lasted for just 16 minutes.

Also, it was discovered after thorough scrutiny of the video evidence that a name in Delta State, 'Sapele' was repeatedly mentioned.

The star witness was then asked about the party in power in the state, in which he answered, PDP, the counsel, therefore, put it to him that those thugs in the video must have been sent from Sapele, which he disagreed.

Another witness invited by the PDP, Samuel Oduntan, an expert in Statistics and Digital Forensics from Kaduna, in his report presented figures that were at variance with figures in the exhibit submitted by PDP (Exhibit 453) especially on number of PVCs collected in some polling units

His report clearly contradicts PDP's claim of over voting in some polling units, as he admitted that he found some inaccuracies in some other claims by PDP with his report.

Tribunal, in reference to the Electoral Acts, then deferred ruling to the final Judgment, as it admitted the Certificate of Compliance and Flash Drive as exhibits of the Court respectively.

It also directed that the Video recording should be played in the open Court for the Lordship alone.

Students' Projects Competition: Ede Poly to represent South West in Abuja

Students from the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, Odunlade Olumayowa Agboluaye and Adeyeye Peter, who came second and third respectively at the Zonal Students' Projects Competition, organized by the Committee of Deans of Polytechnics and Colleges of Technology (COMPODET) are about to represent the zone in Abuja.

While Agboluaye represented the National Diploma(ND) category from the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, with project titled: Construction of Digital Display Board with SMS, Peter participated in the Higher National Diploma(HND) category, from the Department of Computer Engineering Technology, and presented a project titled: Design and Construction of ARDUINO NANO Trainer.

This was contained in a memo signed by the Dean, School of Engineering Technology of the school, Engr. Dr. Dauda Adekunle Folarin, the copy which was made available to newsmen by the institution's Protocol, Media and Public Relations Officer, Sola Lawal, in Ede on Thursday.

According to the memo, the two students were expected to represent the South-West Zone with Dean, School of Engineering Technology and their Instructors at the National level which is expected to hold between 4th and 8th August, 2023 in Abuja.

"The School of Engineering Technology appreciates the Management of Federal Polytechnic, Ede for sponsoring the competition.

"LONG LIFE COMPODET
LONG LIFE FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, EDE
LONG LIFE NIGERIA", the memo read in part.

In his reaction, the Rector of the institution, Engr. Dr Man Yahaya Sani attributed these fits to hard work and total commitment on the part of the entire workforce within the school.

He, therefore, charged them to redouble their efforts and sustain the academic excellence which the citadel is known for since its inception.

The Rector also advised the students to make sure they clinch the first position in the forthcoming competition as the institution is always ready to reward excellence.

Ogun: PDP's star witness presents controversial electronic 'evidence',

In continuation of the proceedings at the governorship election petition tribunal sitting in Abeokuta metropolis, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Wednesday called it's star witness, who came with some downloaded electronic materials.

The star witness, Oyejide Sunkanmi, appeared before the panel with electronic evidence which purported to show alleged disruption of electoral process as claimed by PDP earlier, as well as printed materials presumed to have contained evidence of crime committed in Florida by Governor Dapo Abiodun and attendant jail term.

In their reactions, Counsel to Respondents raised strong objections on the originality and authenticity of the electronic materials, particularly the purported video, presented by the PDP's star witness as evidence.

They queried the materials on the ground that in the first instance, the star witness admitted in his written statement that he was not the originator of the materials, rather, the purported evidence was downloaded. They argued that a video that was captured by someone else could not be tendered by the star witness, as to do so would be to accept inadmissible hearsay evidence.

Respondents counsel further argued that the authenticity of any document being tendered must be established , which was the essence of the legal requirement that such documents must be covered by a certificate of compliance.

The respective Counsel added that at no time were downloaded evidences being considered and acceptable in the court of law, and that in this instance the video was not pleaded or listed and that the transcript of the video which the witness had attached to his Certificate of Compliance was not even mentioned at all in the witness’ statement on oath. This was even as the Counsel to Petitioners assiduously encouraged the tribunal to accept the materials as evidence.

At the end of the day, the letter written by the PDP and the witness' voters card was admitted as an exhibit of the Court.

With respect to the pictures tendered, top up cards, and Florida Metropolitan Police Jail Incident Record, the Tribunal marked them with Exhibit Numbers while Respondents’ counsel reserved their objections for the final address stage, as had been the case for other contentious documents.

Ruling on the admissibility of the video was reserved to be delivered on Thursday.

Abiodun calls for police support in flushing out kidnappers, cultists, set to launch surveillance drone

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State on Wednesday said efforts are being made by his government to flush out kidnappers, cultists, and land grabbers.
Consequently, the state government has concluded arrangements to launch its surveillance drones, to be performed by the Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun.
Governor Abiodun spoke when he received the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Zone 2, comprising Ogun and Lagos states, Mr Ari Mohammed Ali, who paid him a courtesy call in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Prince Abiodun noted that kidnapping, cultism, and land grabbing are serious security challenges facing the government that must be tackled headlong.
He said: "Very soon, we will be inviting the Inspector General to our state because we want to launch our Surveillance Drones. We believe that with the use of drones, we will be able to reduce the number of blind spots that we have in the state because as of now, there is no way, even if we deplore the entire police in Ogun State, we can not cover all the blind spots in the state.
"When we deplore these drones, particularly, along the known occurrences, it will allow men of the Command to respond to distress calls as soon as they identified where the crime has been committed.
"Also, I would like to plead with you for some of your men to assist us in this anti-cultism fight. We are prepared to provide them with the required logistics as the former CP will be overseeing the different units of Anti-cultism, kidnapping, and Quick Response Squad.
The governor, who solicited the cooperation of the AIG in breaking the backbone of land grabbing, said, when arrested, the culprits prefer being taken to Zone 2 to avoid being prosecuted.
He said: "I want to solicit your support in ensuring that we break the back of this land grabbing. I understand that there are instances where land grabbers are arrested in Ogun State and they are brought to Zone 2 for questioning.
"I expect that they take them straight to the Commissioner of Police first and only if the CP in his wisdom believes that the case should be transferred to the Assistant Inspector General of Police, then it should be transferred to the AIG because what we found out in the past is that they do this to avoid been properly prosecuted.
"They believe they can come to Zone 2 and play some games. When they are left off the hook, they come back again to terrorise the people. Most of the land grabbers are repeat offenders. So I want you to help us to look into this so that we can ensure that the land grabbers do not escape the long hands of the law."
Prince Abiodun assured of logistics support to the police to enable them to discharge their duties effectively.
Prince Abiodun emphasized that as a state with the highest number of industries in the country as well as educational and religious camps, coupled with having the busiest federal highway, a lot of pressure is put on the security architecture, hence his administration is collaborating with neighbouring states in patrolling major roads, particularly at the border areas, to reduce attacks from hoodlums.
He said for the state to sustain its position as the industrial hub of the country, his administration would ensure that incidences of security infraction are nip in the bud, expressing the hope that with AIG Ali's rich experience and background in operations, insecurity in the state would be a thing of the past.
Speaking earlier, AIG Mohammed Ali, said he came to familiarise himself with the state, adding that his Zone was ready to take the fight to all land grabbers, kidnappers and cultists disrupting the peace of the state.
He appreciated the governor for his past assistance to the zone and called for more support from the state government to enable his officers and men to carry out their duties more efficiently.

Subsidy removal: Abiodun Approves N10,000 For Workers, Pensioners
...workers to have reduced working days

Ogun State government on Monday announced a series of palliatives for civil servants, pensioners and the people of the state to cushion the effect of subsidy removal on fuel.

Top on the list of palliatives is the approval of N10,000 for civil servants and pensioners every month, according to a statement by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr Tokunbo Talabi.
The government also approved hazard allowance for health and medical personnel, while food palliative was also approved for the most vulnerable citizens.

The statement reads: "In line with the current realities in the country and commitment of Ogun State Government to ameliorate the effects of removal of fuel subsidy on the well-being of the good people of Ogun State, the administration of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has approved the following measures for immediate implementation:

"Cash palliative of N10,000 for each public servant including pensioners to enable workers to cope with the economic shocks occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy for 3 months in the first instance with effect from July 2023.

"Approval of hazard allowance for all health and medical personnel in the State.

"Approval of peculiar allowance for public servants in the State.

"Immediate release of Letters of Promotion in respect of 2021 and 2022.

"Payment of March and April 2023 leave bonuses for public servants in the State.
"Immediate cash-backing for the quarterly payment of gratuities to pensioners.

"The Ministries, Departments and Agencies are to work out modalities of ensuring that 20% of their staff strengths are off-duty daily to ease the effect of the recent increase in fuel price among public servants.

"Commencement of food palliatives to the vulnerable (rice, garri, beans, maize etc)."
The statement noted that Gateway Trading Company has been directed to ensure the establishment of distribution outlets across the state, while items must be sold at the rate obtainable before the fuel price increase.

"The State is also establishing a commodity exchange to ensure optimization of current and future investment in the Agro-allied sector of the economy in line with President Tinubu’s war on food insecurity," the statement added.
Also, fertilizers and other farm inputs are to be supplied to farmers at subsidized and controlled prices.

The statement also reiterated the commitment of the state government to the implementation of the Energy Transition Strategy with the launch of electric motorbikes and tricycles.

Other measures include the commencement of conversion of State Mass Transit buses to CNG including staff buses and current public transportation buses in circulation to reduce the cost of transportation by charging rates comparable to what was obtained before deregulation, acquisition of additional new CNG buses to ease transportation in the State charging fares comparable to what obtained before the fuel subsidy removal, immediate Road Infrastructure Intervention, with all the local governments working with Community Development Associations and Community Leaders to submit three roads that require immediate intervention as part of the palliative programmes and support for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises through Special Schemes to boost production capacity and employment generation.

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2023/07/subsidy-removal-abiodun-approves-n10000-for-workers-pensioners/amp/

I did not know INEC has lawyer- PDP's subpoenaed witness tells Ogun Tribunal
...claims to represent electoral umpire

A subpoenaed witness called by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Eze Desmond, from GRA Road, Sagamu, who claimed to be an ad-hoc staff of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared that he was not aware that the commission has a lawyer.

Desmond made this declaration when being cross-examined by the counsel of Governor Dapo Abiodun, Prof. Taiwo Osipitan, SAN, who objected to the documents tendered by the witness but reserved his objection to his final address.

The witness was responding to a question put to him by Osipitan, who queried how he got the contact address of PDP's lawyer who he claimed he approached upon receiving a subpoena to appear before the tribunal.

Osipitan, while cross-examining the witness also asked about how he got the subpoena and the address he used, to which he responded that it was addressed to him personally and not through INEC.

The witness, who was a corps member said he completed his mandatory service year on May 18th and that he didn't inform INEC about the subpoena and his intention to appear before the panel as an ad-hoc staff of the electoral umpire.

When asked about his experience on the issue of alleged violence where he worked, he said he did not witness any, contrary to what the document he tendered indicates.

Also, a witness of the PDP, Bamidele Aiyedun, from Ikenne, to the dismay of many admitted that there is something wrong in his statement of oath.

Another subpoenaed witness for PDP, Oristhefe Okotipi, who claimed to have worked for INEC as an ad-hoc staff during the gubernatorial poll could not mention the serial numbers of the booklet used for the governorship and House of Assembly elections.

He couldn't also provide any evidence that confirm that he truly worked for INEC, as he admitted that the commission was not in the know of his appearance before the tribunal.

Meanwhile, all the counsels to the respondents expressly objected to those documents tendered before the tribunal by the PDP's subpoenaed witnesses. They however, reserved their objections to their final addresses.

Awujale walked Daniel out of his palace!


I wish to state that I was disappointed, though not surprised, by the developments at the palace of the Awujale of Ijebuland earlier today, Thursday, June 29, during the visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the royal father as part of his activities in consulting and interfacing with critical stakeholders in the State.

Prominent indigenes of the State led by a former Governor and elder statesman, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, had earlier visited the palace and later left for the MKO Abiola Stadium to receive the President and follow him back to the palace. But shortly after he left, a former governor and Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Otunba Gbenga Daniel who was not officially invited to welcome the President, walked in and went straight to the living room of the Awujale where, quite naturally, there was a sitting arrangement for dignitaries with accompanying name tags. Daniel wasn't on the protocol list of Awujale to receive the President. That was the reason no seat was reserved for him. But he gate-crashed and imposed himself on the palace.

The seats were in the order of protocol, namely the Deputy Governor, who represented the Governor at the event, followed by Baba Olusegun Osoba, then the Akarigbo of Remo and Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas, among others. But to the surprise of everyone, including the paramount ruler of Ijebuland, the Awujale, Oba Sikiru Adetona, who is the host, Daniel audaciously removed the tag attached to the seat specially reserved for Baba Olusegun Osoba and sat on the seat. The unconscionable move left everyone present completely stunned.

Swiftly, and to the admiration of many, Baba Awujale, in his no-nonsense manner, called Daniel to order.


But, taking the fully deserved royal rebuke as an affront, the Awujale urged him to walk out of the palace. Daniel angrily stormed out of the palace and the compound to wait for the entourage of Mr President, which he eventually used as a face-saving tactic to come back into the palace.



I was personally watching him from my vantage position at the palace when the President eventually arrived, and the senator couldn't find a befitting place to sit among the dignitaries. But for the intervention of Governor Dapo Abiodun who asked one of his staff to organize a sear for him, he would have stood up throughout the event. Even at that, Daniel still looked terribly dejected and obviously angry and could not get the impulse of the tongue-in-cheek statement made by the President about him that day. Dapo Abiodun hasn't seen anything compared to his treacherous behaviour toward President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the Alliance for Democracy days and when he eventually assumed office as the PDP Governor of Ogun State.


Yes, that is always the fate of charlatans, who seek to run a deadly race to the top without any recourse to decency and ethical standards.
As an Oba, I felt diminished by Daniel's utter lack of decorum. Having experienced his political perversity for eight years and knowing his unstable disposition in the larger national politics, I was not, as I asserted earlier, shocked by his shameless public show. Gbenga Daniel typically aspires towards all that is dark and devious.


With his arrogant move to denigrate a revered personality like Aremo Osoba and treat old age with such contempt, Daniel exposed himself as an irritant and desperate power monger.

Ogun: Tribunal rejects PDP's pleas for reexamination over inconsistent statements

The Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abeokuta metropolis, on Wednesday rejected the pleas of the counsel to the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) Mr Gordy Uche, SAN, seeking reexamination for his witness after certain inconsistencies were discovered in her statement.

The party, had called a witness, Mrs Shittu Omobolanle, from Makun, Sagamu, to appear before the panel and testify in it's favour based on her experience in the gubernatorial poll of March 18, 2023.

Meanwhile, in her statement, the witness gave her polling unit number as 27-20-14-020, whereas, her voter’s card indicates 27-20-14-004 as her PU number.

Counsel to Governor Abiodun, Kehinde Ogunwunmiju, SAN, pointed out the discrepancy during cross examination, when he asked her to read out the numbers on the two documents. Subsequently, the petitioners' counsel - Gordy Uche SAN - attempted to get her to explain the reasons behind the inconsistencies.

Uche SAN argued that opportunity for reexamination should be freely granted to enable his witness explain the facts behind the two numbers, citing the Evidence Act and other authorities to substantiate his stance.

In their reactions, counsels to respondents vehemently objected to the argument, on the ground that there was no ambiguity whatsoever in the two documents.

They equally cited relevant authorities, including that of the Supreme Court in Natasha v The State, to buttress their positions that reexamination can only be allowed along the line of argument of the petitioners' counsel if there was any ambiguity in the issue sought to be reexamined. In his response to the objection, Uche SAN agreed that reexamination was truly limited to ambiguities only but argued that the discrepancies in the witness’ written statement and voter’s card were an ambiguity within the meaning of the Evidence Act.

Replying on points of law, Ogunwumiju SAN clarified that the issue in question was not an ambiguity. He invoked legal authorities and judicial decisions defining ambiguity to mean unclear answers. He explained that what occurred during cross examination was a contradiction by the witness not an ambiguity and that re-examination cannot be used to improve the faulty evidence of a witness. Supporting Ogunwumiju, counsel to APC - Chief Afolabi Fashanu SAN - urged the Tribunal to take judicial notice of the fact that documents speak for themselves. Together, the respective counsel urged the tribunal not to allow the pleas for reexamination as canvassed by the petitioners' counsel.

The tribunal, in it's ruling completely agreed with lawyers to respondents, that the matter at hand was unambiguous and therefore, disallowed the prayer for reexamination as pleaded by the PDP.

In a related development, similarities were also discovered in the statements tendered before the tribunal by Omobolanle and another PDP's witness from Ikenne, Awotubo Olalekan, when compared with witnesses' statements earlier submitted before the panel.

Ogun: Tribunal dismisses PDP's objection, as counsel steps down subpoenaed witness

The governorship election petition tribunal sitting in Abeokuta, the state capital, on Tuesday dismissed an objection raised by counsel to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Gordy Uche, SAN, to the effect that under cross-examination, the petitioner's witness must not be asked to answer questions on documents he did not author.


Counsel to the 1st Respondent(INEC) Dr Remi Olatubora, had put questions across to a witness called by the PDP, Hon. Aina Adewale, from Sagamu, based on the similarities of his witness statement with two others, Sowande Seun, from Sagamu and Ademola Adekunle, from Abeokuta North.

The similarities, according to INEC's counsel were to the extent of word for word and omission for omission, hence, the need to question the witness thoroughly with the aim of ascertaining his veracity and accuracy.

However, in an objection to the application, the petitioner's counsel said tribunal should not allow his witness to be questioned on documents which he did not author, quoting copiously section 67 of the evidence act and other decided authorities.

In his response, counsel to INEC, Olatubora, prayed the panel to discountenance the objection, arguing that points raised by the PDP's counsel and his position on the points of law were irrelevant to the issue under review, relying on section 223 of the evidence act. He argued that the Evidence Act allows him to cross-examine a witness in any manner that tests the witness’ credibility and veracity.

He added that in line with the provision of that section of the evidence act and in line with the spirit and letter of the 1999 constitution, which places high premium on fair hearing, his position as the counsel to INEC confers the right on him to cross examine the witness to test his veracity and knowledge.

Adding to Olatubora’s position, Gov Abiodun’s lawyer, Professor Taiwo Osipitan SAN added that one of the statutory purposes of cross-examination is to discover who a witness is. He added that in that regard, asking a witness to compare his witness statement with the witness statements of other witnesses is allowed because it give the witness the opportunity to explain why his evidence is completely the same with the evidence of a witness from somewhere else, while also giving the Tribunal to discover whether the witness is a copycat or other form of unreliable witness.

Counsel to APC, Otunba Kunle Kalejaiye submitted that PDP’s lawyer had not shown to the Tribunal whether the question asked of the witness was scandalous, immodest, offensive, or of any other nature prohibited by law. He joined the other lawyers to ask the Tribunal to overrule the objection.

The tribunal, therefore, overruled the objection raised by the counsel to PDP, making reference to it's previous rulings on similar objections.

In another development, counsel to the PDP, was made to step down the appearance of a subpoenaed witness, a supposed INEC staff, who he claimed worked as a presiding officer during the March 18th governorship poll, after counsels to INEC raised objections to such testimony, citing the fact that the statement of the witness was only made yesterday and served on Respondents yesterday.

Trial continues in Abeokuta.

Alleged cutting of sacred tree in Ede; a blatant lies from traducers, ignore it-Timi

The Timi of Ede Land, Oba Dr. Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, Laminisa the 1st, has described as untrue and complete falsehood the news making the rounds on different social media platforms that a sacred tree was about to be cut in Ede, with attendant human sacrifice, hence, the need for curfew.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Special Assistant on Media & Publicity to the first class monarch, Dapo Akinyele, the copy which was made available to newsmen on Tuesday, in Ede.

Oba Laminisa added that such dangerous lies are from the enemies of the town with the motive of creating fear in the minds of the people, saying the original notion behind the lies was to disrupt the peace of the ancient town and give it a bad name.

"Please, kindly disregard the ongoing dangerous lies making the rounds on the social media platforms. I want to confirm to you that there is no such plan by anybody in anyway. Ede remains a peaceful abode for anybody irrespective of tribe or status.

"The lies are coming from the enemies of Ede who are hell bent to disrupt the serenity and calmness of our land and thereby create unnecessary confusion, obviously, they have failed woefully in that regard.

"I hereby, enjoin every resident of Ede to go about their normal business activities unhindered and without any fear whatsoever", Oba Laminisa said.

The monarch also used the medium to thank all his subjects for the rousing welcome accorded him from the kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

July 17, 2023.


PRESS STATEMENT

*“Face your criminal charges and stop sounding like broken record”*
*- Ogun APC tells Adebutu, PDP*

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun state has advised the defeated governorship candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Ladi Adebutu, “to be man enough to face the criminal charges preferred against him by the Federal Government and stop sounding like a broken record.”

Reacting to a press conference addressed by Sikirulai Ogundele, the Ogun state Chairman of the beleaguered PDP in Abeokuta on Monday, the APC in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Tunde Oladunjoye, said, "The PDP has nothing new to say. We have gone through the porous press statement and we cannot find anything more than the trite excuses, false claims and contradictions of the defeated candidate who has been on the run from the law since his invitation by the Police.”

The party added, “By now, even the media would be tired of the monotonous noise of these losers. A party, whose candidate has shunned Police invitation, fled the country and attempted to stop his trial, is unabashedly making false accusations and preemptively blackmailing the Police. The desperate press conference was held after the court has thrown out same spurious claims canvassed”

“When the Police invited the suspect, he fled abroad and told the Police he was going for medicals and his return could only be determined by his doctor. Then he told the public that his life was threatened and he has therefore fled to an unknown destination.

“Few weeks after, he approached the court and filed a motion stopping Police from 'inviting', 'interviewing' or 'detaining' him over allegations of votes-buying through the printing and distribution of 200,000 pieces of Verve ATM cards preloaded with N10,000 credit and totaling N2 billion. He also wanted the court to ask the Police to defer the trial till after the conclusion of his petition at the Tribunal in Abeokuta.

“In the process of serial lies and contradictions, Adebutu has even lied under oath, committed perjury and he certainly has a date to keep with the law. For someone who kept boasting that his father’s money can do anything, the recent meaningless press conference is perhaps an indication that money has failed him in buying the law.”

The party advised the Ogun state PDP and its defeated governorship candidate to stop wasting their time on a lost battle but rather “concentrate their energies and resources on defending themselves of the weighty criminal charges hanging round their necks, and to which many of their conspirators have confessed to.”

Ogun: PDP's witness blames lawyer for repetition, as Tribunal battles witness inconsistencies and lies

As Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) called more witnesses to testify before the governorship election petition tribunal sitting in Abeokuta, the state capital, on Monday, several inconsistencies and similarities in the witnesses' statements have continued to trail the proceedings.

A witness, Mrs Mulikat Yemi, from Ota, while admitting similarities in her statement with another witness, Balogun Olanrewaju, during cross examination by the counsel to INEC, including same error and omission in paragraph 6 of their statements, told tribunal to question her lawyer for the repetition.

One other witness, Thomas Abiodun, a photographer, who appeared before the panel for the party from Iyesi-Ota, in Ado Odo Ota Local Government, claimed to have signed the statement he presented on June 16, whereas,the statement was actually signed on 6th April.

Also, paragraphs 3 and 4 of his statement, after being sighted and compared were confirmed to be the same with other witnesses' statements.

Abiodun, further lied on oath when he told the Tribunal that his statement was based on his personal knowledge, meanwhile, after being cross examined, he later changed this claim and said the information in his statement came from an unnamed official of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In the same vein, it was discovered after thorough scrutiny by Counsel to INEC that witness statement submitted by another individual called by the PDP, Mr Kushimo Akeem, a cloth seller from Gbagura, in Abeokuta North Local Government, was exactly the same with previous witnesses' statements earlier presented.

Bamidel Abiodun @57: Gov Abiodun Thanks Wife For Filling The Gap

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has praised his wife, Bamidele for her continuous support and role in ensuring the successful implementation of his administration's ISEYA program.
He said that her determination at ensuring his success as Governor of the state has helped in filling in the gap as he serves the people.

Prince Abiodun who made this known during the 57th birthday thanksgiving of his wife held at the Government House Chapel, Oke-Igbehin, Abeokuta, charged the congregation and the people of the state to deliberate and live a life that touches others.

"I want to thank you for filling in the gap as I serve the good people of Ogun State, I want to thank you for your consistent prayers, may the Lord Almighty continue to protect and keep you under his shadow.

"Today is a special day of thanksgiving because my beautiful and adorable wife has added another year. We are here to celebrate what the Lord has done for us.

"I want to pray that God continues to give you Bamidele unspeakable and everlasting joy, may you fulfil your destiny," he said.

Abiodun who also noted that days like his wife's birthday and thanksgiving are indeed worthy of celebration, added: "Days like these are indeed worthy of celebration, but at the same time, they are reminders that we have added one extra year and we have one less extra year left on this earth."

The Governor, who also urged the people of the state to ask themselves what reason God has created them, said that occasions like birthday thanksgivings are created not to only number our days, but to also give thanks to God.

In her remarks, the celebrant thanked God for giving her good health and sound mind, as well as holding her hands even in times of tribulation.

Bamidele while noting that she would be intentional about how she lives her life from now on, thanked her husband for being her greatest supporter.

In his message titled; "Unquantified Thanksgiving", the South West Chairman of the Organisation of Africa Instituted Churches(OAIC), His Grace, Elder Apostle Jacob Adetokunbo Adeaga who read from the book of Psalm 103 disclosed that no man can ever quantify the level of the love of God in their life, saying that it is good to always thank God for his love in our lives.

Apostle Adeaga who also urged Mrs Abiodun to continuously thank God for his love in her life, charged her to continue to do more for God, the people and the state.

Adeaga thanked Governor Abiodun for his wonderful performance in his first term, even as he charged him to surpass that performance in his second term.

Me: Food & Happiness; the eternal Siamese Twins.

Abiodun swears in Customary Court of Appeal judge, tasks judiciary on political stability

Governor Dapo Abiodun on Friday charged the judiciary to ensure that the country stabilised politically.
The Governor gave the charge while swearing in Justice Oriyomi Abiodun Sofowora as a judge of the Ogun State Customary Court of Appeal at the Governor's Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta,

Abiodun said his administration believes in the independence and vibrancy of the judiciary as a vital tool for the strengthening of democracy and institutionalizing the rule of law, hence the need for judicial officers to be above board in carrying out their duties.

He said: "My Lord, you are saddled with the dual obligations of ensuring political stability as well as being there for the downtrodden at all times as their last hope.

"This you must do with total commitment, courage, and assertiveness without fear or favour. As a matter of duty, you must continue to earn public trust and ensure that all the arms of government work independently, but collectively within the tenet and principles of separation of powers for the overall good of our people."

Abiodun noted that the state has played a leading role in the evolution and development of a modernized and functional legal system not only in Nigeria but in the West African subregion just as its leading role in the legal profession remains unbroken.

"Luminaries from Ogun State have contributed immensely towards a virile and effective judicial system in Nigeria and on the global stage. The judiciary balances the Executive and Legislative arms in every democratic setting and serves as a sanctuary to the common man," he added.

The governor expressed the hope that with the appointment of the new judge, the tradition of integrity, diligence, and excellence that have been the hallmark of the state judiciary would be optimally enhanced.

"Please take cognisance of the enormous burden of not only ensuring that justice is served but seen to be served effectively and efficiently without bias.

As a responsible and responsive government with an unwavering bias for good governance and the rule of law, we shall stop at nothing to bring good men and women of impeccable character and proven integrity on board to join us in coordinating the affairs of the state in different capacities," Abiodun assured.

He stated that his administration has carried out a series of reforms like the introduction of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for the Case Management System, the Judges' Clock and the Custody Monitoring Dashboard System, towards efficient administration of justice in the state.

Governor Abiodun appreciated members of the state's judiciary for upholding the excellent tradition of the profession, emphasizing that the present administration would continue to ensure a strong and functional judicial system towards the successful implementation of the "Building our Future Together agenda."

In her remarks, Mrs Sofowora who thanked the governor for the opportunity to serve as a judge in the Customary Court of Appeal, pledged to discharge her duties without fear or favour.


L-R: The husband of the Judge, Customsary Court of Appeal; Adewunmi Sofowora, the Judge; Hon. Justice Oriyomi Abiodun Sofowora, Governor Dapo Abiodun, the Chief Judge of Ogun State; Hon. Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu and the Ag.President, Customary Court of Appeal (CCA); Hon. Justice Femi Segun during the swearing in of Hon. Justice Oriyomi Abiodun Sofowora as a Judge of the Ogun State Customary Court of Appeal (CCA)

Ogun: Tribunal throws out PDP's objection, as cases of alleged forgery, impersonation persist

In continuation of proceedings at the Ogun State governorship election petition tribunal sitting in Abeokuta metropolis, the panel on Friday overruled an objection raised by counsel to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over inexplicably repetitive statements made by it’s different witnesses in different polling units even as falsehoods by witnesses called by PDP continue to be uncovered.

In overruling the PDP, the Tribunal reaffirmed its earlier ruling on same argument raised during one of the previous sittings.

There were reports from the tribunal in the past days of plethora evidences establishing alleged impersonation and similarities in the witnesses' statements brought forward by different individuals called by the PDP to testify in its favour.

Counsel to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had raised observations and asked questions on similarities in the PDP witnesses' statements and several cases of inconsistencies, in which the petitioner's counsel raised objection but was swiftly overruled by the panel.

The development was unanimously endorsed by all the counsels to the respondents, as another witness called by the PDP, Isau Lawal, from Makun, Sagamu, allegedly lied to have applied to INEC for certified true copies of documents in respect of the case under review and in the same breath admitted that none of such documents was tendered before the tribunal.

Also, an alleged case of impersonation was established against the PDP's witness, when counsel to All Progressives Congress, (APC) called out a different name, Yewande Babatunde, as the PDP’s polling agent at PU002, Ward 12, where Lawal claimed to have worked as the party's agent, even as he has no means of identification to substantiate his claim that he was the party’s agent. He, however, admitted knowing Yewande Babatunde, the rightful agent of the party.

Ogun govt embarks on massive road rehabilitation

Ogun state government is set to embark on total rehabilitation of roads around the State as a way of cushioning the adverse effects of torrential rain on the state's road network.

The Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, made this known on Thursday, while on-the-spot assessment of damage caused by erosion on some roads across the state.

Akinsanya said the government was aware of the challenges confronting the people, particularly road users in all parts of the State.

According to him," The rainy season is here and we are aware of the attendant challenges it has on our roads. However, the government is monitoring the situation and is already putting adequate palliative measures in place to arrest the menace.

"Some of the roads we have identified include; Mowe - Ofada in Obafemi Local Government, the second lane of Adatan - More junction in Abeokuta South Local Government and Akute - Alagbole in Ifo Local Government Area, among others''.

He added that the identified roads, along with others will receive adequate attention immediately after the rain subsides, noting that the reconstruction of sections of Ijoko-Akute road is ongoing and is being done in phases.

Akinsanya, therefore, reassured residents of the state that their well-being and welfare remain the utmost priority of the state government, saying that Governor Dapo Abiodun is resolute and committed to economic growth of the state as well as abundant life for the teeming populace.

PDP witnesses admit having multiple signatures, as Ogun Tribunal continues proceedings

Proceedings at the governorship election petition tribunal, sitting in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital took another dimension on Wednesday, as some of the witnesses called by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) confessed to have used different signatures in their witness statements, other than the one they used regularly on daily basis.

One of the witnesses, Ademola Adewale, after admitting to using a different signature in his witness statement also denied a part of his statement to the effect that he saw many voters at his Polling Unit ready and willing to vote but were disenfranchised.

In the same vein, Alhaji Abiodun Sotinwa, another PDP witness and a businessman from Iperu, in Ikenne Local Government, also admitted to having used a signature different from his regular signature for daily activities. He was later caught to have lied about his membership of the PDP when being crossed examined.

In another development, a witness invited by the PDP, Olufunmilola Desalu, a fashion designer also from Iperu expressed surprise that her statement was the same as that of Sotinwa, although, she claimed not to have authored the witness statement.

The two statements were discovered to be word for word, presentation for presentation after counsel to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) thoroughly scrutinized the statements.

When further grilled by the INEC counsel on the reason for the similarities, she simply responded: “I think my lawyer is in a better position to answer that question."

Also, a trader, Ariyo Adeola, from Iperu, whose statement did not contain necessary details came to testify in favour of PDP, as she admitted to being the wife of the Chairman of PDP in Ikenne LGA.
She, however, denied being the ward woman leader of the party.

Going further on the proceedings, Mr Rafiu Hakeem Aro, from Iperu, a trader, was also called by the PDP as a witness. Meanwhile, after being cross-examined, he told the tribunal that his witness statement was not written by him.

After a series of contradictions and inconsistencies on the part of all the witnesses, their counsel was compelled to beg for adjournment.

Ogun Tribunal: Confusion, as PDP witness admits lying on oath, other forgets election's date

There was palpable confusion on Tuesday, during the ongoing proceedings at the governorship election petition tribunal sitting in Abeokuta metropolis, as a witness of the People's Democratic Party, (PDP)Olusanya Olatunji, confessed to have lied on oath.

Olatunji, a PDP member, who came from Idowa, in Odogbolu LGA, admitted to have deliberately concocted the figures he supplied in his witness statement with regards to Registered voters and PVCs collected in his area.

That is even as another witness called by PDP, Abidemi Adenuga, while being crossed examined said the gubernatorial election in the State was held on March 13th instead of 18th.

Also, the witness didn't know what Petitioner, form EC8A and form EC8B mean, as well as how she came about the figures of PVCs collected as purportedly stated in her witness report.

In addition to this and rather amazingly, the PDP witness said she didn't know the process by which she became a party agent as claimed by the PDP, and even who the respondents in the case are.

"Q: Who is the Petitioner in this case?

Witness: I don’t know

Q: When was the election?

Witness: 13th March 2023

Q: Who told you the figures of PVCs collected as stated in your witness statement

Witness: I don’t know

Q: Do you know Form EC8A?

Witness: I don’t know

Q: Do you know what Form EC8B is used for?

Witness: I don’t know

Q: Do you know the process by which you became a party agent?

Witness: I don’t know

Q: Who are the Respondents in this case?

A: I don’t know".

Ogun set to host NSF 2024; Olapade, Adebajo, others to lead 16-man committee

Ogun State government, on Tuesday, announced its readiness to hold the 2024 National Sports Festival (NSF) in fulfilment of an earlier promise made by the Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, as it unveiled leading professionals in Nigeria's sports sector as Local 9rganizing Committee (LOC) members.

It would be recalled that the state government, earlier in May, had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Federal Government, through the Federal Ministry of Sports and Youth Development.

During that occasion, Governor Abiodun had told the Federal Government delegation led by the then Minister of Sports, Mr Sunday Dare, that Ogun State, being a state noted for recording many firsts in all spheres of human endeavour, was ready to host a world-class festival in 2024, asserting that the State had capable hands and sponsors ready to support the bid.

To that end, the former minister, while expressing the FG's acceptance of the proposal noted that the choice of Ogun State as the next host of the NSF was due to its culture of sports development, availability of sporting infrastructure and potential to host a befitting festival that would linger for a long time.

Unveiling the 16-man local organizing committee in Abeokuta, the state capital on Tuesday, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, in a statement listed former Commissioner for Youths and Sports in the state, Hon. Bukola Olapade as the chairman of the LOC alongside Mr Tilewa Adebayo, a sports enthusiast, as co-chairman.

Olapade, the progenitor of the top-rated Access Bank-sponsored Lagos City Marathon, Abeokuta 10km Marathon race, and the Remo ultra-race, remains topnotch in the world of sports in Nigeria.

Another member of the Committee, Chief (Mrs.) Falilat Ogunkoya-Omotayo (MON) who is regarded as the Queen of tracks is a 1998 World Cup of Athletics Champion, 400 metres grand prix champion, 200 metres world champion, two-time Olympic medalist and the first female Nigerian to win an individual Olympic medal and hold the African record in 400 metres till date.

Others include the Secretary-general of the local organising committee (LOC) for the NSF Edo 2020, Dr Emmanuel Igbinosa, one of Nigeria's notable sports administrators, ex-chairman of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC); working committee of the African Table Tennis Federation (ATTF) and Chairman of the Youth Committee of African Table Tennis Federation, Dr Kweku Tandoh, as well as the renowned sports psychologist and head of the Department of Sports and Exercise Medical Sciences at University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana, Professor Oluwaseun Olanrewaju Omotayo,

Also in the Committee are the Vice Chairman of Ijebu Ode Local Government, Hon Dare Alebiosu; Mr. Kunle Solaja, Olusegun Oyende, Mr Olatunji Onatolu, Mrs. Modele Sharafa Yussuf, Demola Are, Abiodun Jubril Elegbede, Ola Opedimeji Adisa, the former Commissioner for Youth & Sports and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth & Sports.
The statement said that the LOC has been mandated to set up subcommittees, made up of various stakeholders to ensure a hitch-free exercise as well as deliver a sports festival that is second to none in the country.

Ogun Tribunal: PDP witnesses admit not reading witness statements

As the governorship election petition tribunal sitting in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital resumed proceedings on Monday, members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, were the only ones that appeared as witnesses for the party.

It would be recalled that the Tribunal provisionally admitted undisputed documents presented by the PDP on Thursday last week, as their counsel informed the panel of their readiness to start calling witnesses as scheduled.

Meanwhile, among the PDP members who were called during the cross-examination was Ibuowo Ogunbowale, from Sabo, Sagamu, who was accused of disrupting the electoral process after realizing that his party was losing at his polling unit.

Ogunbowale, was cross-examined by one of the counsels to the Respondents, Mrs Folake Akinlawon, and agreed to be a member of PDP and a former aspirant on the platform of the party, though he denied his involvement in the crisis that rocked his polling unit.

Another witness, Adeleye Ayomide, also from Sagamu and a member of PDP, who was cross-examined by INEC and APC counsels respectively affirmed that his lawyers gave him the witness paper and was not aware of the content, while he shockingly confessed that he didn't agree with the provision of the electoral law which stipulates that voters should quietly vacate polling units after voting.

None of them worked as party agents during the polls nor confirmed being molested in any way during the exercise to establish a case of violence against their members as it was alleged by their party.
Another PDP witness, Kehinde Soboyejo, also opted for cutlass as an object of oath-taking.

However, it was revealed after being cross-examined by INEC counsel that he registered in two polling units.

In another development, Adijat Ayodele, who was also called to testify in favour of PDP admitted not to have read her witness statement before appending her signature.

In the same vein, Faisal Yusuf, from Ijoko, Ifo, who also came to testify in favour of PDP told the tribunal that he had been a trader for the past 30 years. Contrary to his claim, his voter's card marked BT 591 read that he was a civil servant.

FG arraigns Adebutu, 9 others for vote buying, adjourns till 26 September 2023.

The Federal Government on Monday arraigned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the 2023 governorship election in Ogun State, Ladi Adebutu and nine others before an Ogun State High court. Sitting in Abeokuta for vote buying.
Adebutu, who was charged in absentia has been on the run from law.
It would be recalled that Adebutu, some months ago, sneaked out of the country, following allegations of electoral malpractices and money laundering preferred against him and his party by the Federal Government.
The All progressives Congress (APC), through its Ogun State Chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi, had written a petition to the Inspector General of Police over the vote buying allegation, which was investigated by the State Criminal Investigations Department Eleweran, Abeokuta.
Upon conclusion of investigations, the Federal Government through the Director of Public Prosecutions, Federal Ministry of Justice filed criminal charges against Ladi and his co-defendants at the High Court sitting.
When the case came up before Hon. Justice Abiodun Akinyemi sitting in court 4, it was adjourned till today the 10th of July 2023 owing to the inability of the court’s process servers to serve Ladi Adebutu and his co-defendants with the information sheet.
However, as at the time the matter was called on Monday, Ladi Adebutu remained at large while the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, and 10th Defendants in persons of Ogunbona Hammed, Tiamiyi Waleed, Egunsola Owolabi, Sanni Adejoke and Malik respectively were present.
They pleaded not guilty to all the 4 counts and their counsel Muyiwa Obanewa subsequently urged the court to grant bail to the defendants.
The prosecuting counsel Rotimi Jacobs while noting that Ladi Adebutu is still on the run said he was not opposed to the granting of bail to the defendants.
Hon. Justice Akinyemi subsequently admitted the accused to bail in the sum of N100,000 and one surety each who shall be either bondsmen or relatives of the defendants with evidence of payment of tax.
The court adjourned the case till 26th of September 2023 for definite hearing.
According to the charge sheet of the case with no AB/10C/2003 filed at the high court and dated June 2, 2023, Adebutu, along with Messers Ogunbona Hammed, Tiamiyu Waliu, Egunsola Owolabi, Sanni Adegoke, Hon. Dare Lukman Ogunleye, Dayo Fasina, Wasiu Enilolobo and Malik Badmus, were being prosecuted on a four-count charge, namely one count of criminal conspiracy contrary to Section 121 of the Electoral Act, 2022, bribery contrary to Section 121 of the Electoral Act, 2022, and two counts of undue influence contrary to section 127 of the Electoral Act, 2022.
According to the particulars of the offence, Adebutu and the co-accused “on or about 18th of March at Ibara, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did conspire among yourselves to corruptly give gifts in form of verve prepaid cards which had inscribed on them ‘Dame Caroline Oladuni Adebutu Memorial Endorsement Scheme for Less Privileged’ in order to induce voters to endeavour the return of PDP candidates during the gubernatorial and State Assembly elections in Ogun State.”
Adebutu was further accused of providing 200,000 prepaid verve cards loaded with N10,000 each and inscribed with the same name “for the purpose of corruptly influencing voters to vote for PDP candidates” during the said elections.