₦airaland Forum

TASUED's Federal Government's Acquisition: OGD's Self-promotional Piece Fraught With Heavy Dose Of Self-Glorification








Femi Ogbonnikan








Concerns have been raised about the benefits of the Federal Government's takeover of Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED). To be clear, the university is situated in Ijebu-Ode, with additional campuses in Ososa and Ijagun. The Federal Government announced the takeover of the institution on March 9, 2025. This development was motivated by a desire to strengthen teacher-education in Nigeria. Mr Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser (SA) to the President on Information and Strategy, who announced the decision, said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recognized TASUED's crucial role in teacher-education and serves as a tribute to the contributions of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Dr. Tai Solarin to Nigeria's educational development. Among other things, the takeover is expected to attract increased funding, enhance infrastructure development, and elevate TASUED's national recognition. This move will further solidify Ogun State's status as a hub for academic excellence in Nigeria.  
Additionally, the Federal Government's action is seen as a strategic step to ensure the institution's long-term viability, rather than a result of neglect. The Ogun State Government has commended the Federal Government for adopting TASUED, acknowledging that the takeover will bring positive transformation to the institution.
However, some cynics have expressed a different opinion, focusing on the downside of the new status of the university. Cynics have a penchant for questioning, disbelieving or opposing new initiatives. Former governor Gbenga Daniel (now, Senator representing Ogun East at the National Assembly), shares a semblance of critics who see only the negative sides of the government’s policies.  His perspective, as expressed in his open letter, focuses primarily on the negative aspects of the Federal Government's takeover of TASUED. By emphasizing the potential drawbacks and ignoring the potential benefits, his criticism takes on a decidedly pessimistic tone.
This approach can be seen as overly critical, failing to acknowledge the positive implications of the takeover, such as increased funding, improved infrastructure, and enhanced national recognition. A more balanced critique would consider both the advantages and disadvantages of the takeover, rather than solely focusing on the negative.  According to him, the takeover is an indictment on the state government’s ability to maintain the institution.   
But for the enthusiasts, the Federal Government's move is seen as a strategic step to bolster teacher-education and enhance instruction quality across all educational levels.  
As a federal institution, TASUED will become the first federally owned tertiary school in Ogun East senatorial district, with a well-developed infrastructure and academic programme that requires minimal federal investment. The takeover is expected to strengthen teacher training and education nationwide, as TASUED is Nigeria's first specialized university of education.
This development underscores the government's commitment to advancing teacher education and human capital development. By taking over TASUED, the Federal Government aims to honour a renowned educationist and activist. The government also seeks to strengthen teacher training and education nationwide. The takeover will not only benefit the Ogun East senatorial district, where TASUED is located, as it will also serve the needs of the nation in general.  
In intent and purpose, Daniel's open letter to Governor Dapo Abiodun is more of a self-promotional piece than a genuine attempt at constructive dialogue. The letter is replete with rhetorical flourishes and a heavy dose of self-glorification, which detract from its overall impact.
By highlighting his role in establishing TASUED, Gbenga Daniel is seeking to draw attention to his own accomplishments, rather than acknowledging the broader significance of the university's takeover.
Establishing a university is certainly a notable achievement, but it's no rocket science. The primary purpose of being elected as the governor is to initiate projects that touch the lives of the people. By boasting about his vision, Daniel is overselling his contribution and seeking undue praise.
Moreover, his focus on his own role in the university's establishment is an attempt to deflect attention from the potential benefits of the takeover, such as increased funding and improved resources.
It's worth noting that this isn't the first time Gbenga Daniel has been at odds with the Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun. In 2022, he reportedly snubbed Abiodun by launching his campaign for the Ogun East senatorial seat without the governor's involvement.
Given this history, it's possible that Daniel's open letter is as much about scoring political points as it is about addressing any genuine concerns he may have. Regardless of the motivations behind it, the letter's tone and content are unlikely to foster a productive exchange between Daniel and Abiodun.
Given this history, it's possible that Daniel's open letter is as much about scoring political points as it is about addressing any genuine concerns he may have. Regardless of the motivations behind it, the letter's tone and content are unlikely to foster a productive exchange between Daniel and Abiodun.
His accusation of neglect against the Abiodun administration does come across as biased and demeaning. His open letter to the Governor was more of a criticism of the state government's handling of tertiary institutions, particularly Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED). However, the argument that the takeover is an indictment of the Abiodun administration's inability to fund the institution is questionable, given that the state's budget has increased significantly. Instead of acknowledging the positive aspects of the takeover, such as increased funding and access to federal resources, he chose to focus on perceived neglect.
Notwithstanding his scathing criticism, the takeover of the university was a strategic decision to ensure the institution's long-term viability, rather than a result of neglect. Compared to his previous regime, significant improvements have been made in Ogun's education sector under Abiodun's leadership, including increased funding and infrastructure development. From the tone of the letter, Daniel's accusations seem more driven by political motivations than a genuine concern for the welfare of TASUED or the education sector in Ogun State.
The argument that the conversion of TASUED to a federal university will deny the state opportunities for employment does indeed seem overly simplistic.
Regardless of whether the institution is owned by the state or federal government, the employees will still reside in and contribute to the local economy. Their salaries and other benefits will still be spent within the community, thereby generating economic activity and stimulating growth.
In fact, as a federal university, TASUED has potential to attract more students and staff from across the country, thus boosting the local economy through increased demand for goods and services.
Apart from that, the Federal Government's takeover of TASUED will lead to increased investment in the institution's infrastructure, research, and academic programmes, which could have positive spillover effects on the local community. The conversion of TASUED to a federal university is expected to provide access to more efficient funding. As a federal institution, TASUED will likely receive more stable and predictable funding from the federal government, which could enable the university to better plan and manage its resources.
This is in contrast to state-owned institutions, which often face funding uncertainties due to fluctuations in state government revenues.
With more reliable funding, TASUED can invest in improving its infrastructure, expanding its academic programmes, and enhancing its research capabilities, ultimately benefiting students, faculty, and the wider community.
Furthermore, as a federal university, TASUED may also become eligible for funding from federal agencies, such as the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), which provides grants for infrastructure development, research, and academic staff development.
Overall, the conversion of TASUED to a federal university is expected to provide a more stable and sustainable funding framework, enabling the institution to achieve its full potential.
It sounds illogical to conclude that the conversion will deny ogun state indigenes opportunity for admission into higher institution. Far from it. Ogun State indeed boasts an impressive array of tertiary institutions, with a total of 20 universities, comprising one federal, three state, and 16 private universities. This extensive range of options ensures that indigenes have ample opportunities for higher education.
With this diverse selection of institutions, it's unlikely that the conversion of Tai Solarin University of Education to a federal university would deny Ogun State indigene opportunities for admission. Instead, it will even enhance access to quality education and resources. 
Above all, while the change in ownership may have some implications for state-level employment opportunities, it's unlikely to have a significant negative impact on the local economy.






 
Ogbonnikan is a Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Ogun State Governor on Media

Ogun Amotekun Faults Sahara Reporters, Says Outfit Well Funded by Gov. Abiodun



The Corps Commander of Amotekun in Ogun State, Brig. Gen. A.I. Adedigba (rtd), has dismissed as pure fiction, the story by controversial online news platform, SaharaReporters, alleging that the outfit was being underfunded by the Ogun State government.



Adedigba, who averred that the security outfit's collaborative frameworks with various security agencies and local stakeholders to foster intelligence-sharing and strategic responses to security challenges in the state are second to none, said Amotekun is being well funded by the Governor Dapo Abiodun administration, describing the report by Sahara Reporters as malicious, misleading, and lacking in substance.



Brig. Gen. Adedigba noted that since the inception of Amotekun in 2020, the administration had been steadfast in meeting its commitment to providing the necessary resources to ensure the effectiveness of this vital security initiative.



"Governor Abiodun was one of the governors who promptly inaugurated and empowered Amotekun in the state. He has prioritized the safety and well-being of Ogun residents, giving the security outfit 10 brand new Toyota Hilux patrol vehicles and also deploying a comprehensive approach to security through robust funding and other logistical support for Amotekun," he said.



The Commander noted that contrary to Sahara Reporters' false claim, substantial allocations to the tune of ₦731,770,793.53 were made to the outfit in 2024. This is against the sum of ₦103 million quoted by the newspaper in its report.


He added: "I can proudly say that our budget has been increased from this initial figure to ₦1.5 billion with the approval of the Ogun State House of Assembly for the year 2025.



"It is very unfortunate that the writer's sense of judgment was beclouded with mischief to the extent that he couldn't remember that it is during the same year under review that Ogun Amotekun moved to its newly constructed and well-furnished State Headquarters office accommodation, while the meager amount of ₦10 million claimed to have been spent on services is low compared to the monthly running cost specifically allocated for the operational costs of Amotekun, which includes funds designated for maintaining vehicles, office supplies, and essential operational resources.



"Such allocations ensure that our security personnel are well-equipped to protect our communities effectively," he added.



Adedigba also noted the significant investments of the state government in providing the necessary equipment to the outfit, which had enabled its personnel to carry out their duties effectively.


"The renovation of the old secretariat office complex with drilling of a borehole to address water challenges, and training programs were aimed at enhancing the skills of our security personnel were all executed.



"Furthermore, in the year 2024, the present administration, in its continued efforts at building a resilient and combative force, approved the recruitment and training of an additional 750 personnel to strengthen the numerical figure of the outfit. In his generous tendencies, the governor approved the payment of salaries for the new recruits counting from their days in camp, as well as two pairs of uniforms for each new operative with other kits to complete their attire.



"It is imperative to note that claims suggesting a lack of logistics are unfounded and do not reflect the truth of ongoing government support.



"With the current status of Amotekun in Ogun State, our collaborative frameworks with various security agencies and local stakeholders to foster intelligence-sharing and strategic responses to security challenges are second to none, as numerous training programs and workshops approved by the Governor have improved the operational capacity of our personnel.



"Also determined to make Ogun State a safe haven for businesses to thrive and residents to live without fear, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, two weeks ago, again handed over an additional operational vehicles and power bikes to Amotekun. With this, the Agency now have over 45 serviceable operational vehicles and 70 motor bikes in its inventory to conduct its daily activities.


"The operational vehicles clearly symbolize the government's unwavering dedication to a safer Ogun State.



"Additionally, the Governor has graciously approved the first batch of 500 additional personnel, barely two months after graduating 750 new operatives, with approval for two pairs of full kits (uniform and others), while their salaries have already received the kind approval of the governor with cash backing.



"I wonder how an unserious government that neglects security would have invested this much in an outfit like Amotekun.


"Let it be on record that the Ogun State Government remains committed to transparency and accountability in its dealings. As such, we encourage all stakeholders and members of the public to engage with official sources of information rather than rely on sensationalist reports. The budget documents and allocations are publicly accessible for scrutiny to affirm the government’s commitment to the security of the State," the Corps Commander said.

Tai Solarin University of Education and Gbenga Daniel's Campaign of Pessimism

BY OLANIYI AJIBOLA

The late American political journalist and author, Norman Cousins, once said", Optimism doesn't wait on facts, it deals with prospects, while pessimism is a waste of time".

Reading through a comic relief authored by Otunba Gbenga Daniel recently, which he called a letter to Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, on the acquisition of Tai Solarin University of Education by the Federal Government, one would wonder how such thoughts came into the mind of a former Governor and serving Senator, who some individuals look up to as a mentor and leader.

Dissecting Daniel’s so-called letter on its face -value, the former Governor raised what appears as false alarm claiming the acquisition would deprive the people of the state employment opportunities as well as limiting admission quotas.

Obviously, the lawmaker woefully failed to put this argument on the scale of rationality and logic before hastily putting pen on paper and come up with a beer parlour argument gorgeously dressed in the regalia of pessimism.

Succinctly speaking, the leadership attributes displayed by Prince Dapo Abiodun and the quality of governance provided by his administration, which indeed excited and attracted the Federal Government to the Ivory Tower and took it over was very uncommon in the analysis of political journey of Ogun State in the last decades and seriously absent during the holocaust years of Gbenga Daniel.

Since November 28, 2005 when the defunct Tai Solarin College of Education got its present status as the first Specialised Univerity of Education in Nigeria, the man at the saddle at the time, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, practically did nothing to project for the expansion and advancement of the higher institution of learning, in the same way he handled different specialised Polytechnics he founded in those days, leaving them vulnerable and volatile.

Rather than consolidating and advancing the inherent academic excellence in those schools, the campuses regrettably became dens of cultists and sanctuaries of 'Aristos ' allegedly servicing men in power.

Against this perilous situation, there was total turn around in those institutions of higher learning immediately Governor Dapo Abiodun assumed office, restoring sanity and academic excellence with inspiring motivation to members of staff for optimal productivity.

This is the major factor that propelled the takeover of Tai Solarin University of Education, as it is obvious that the Federal Ministry of Education can not take a conscious decision of that magnitude without cogent reasons of interest.

Meanwhile, everyone except Otunba Gbenga Daniel and his likes applauded the taking over of the University across the state and beyond, with convincing hope that the takeover will guarantee more funding and significant increase in its academic frontiers.

Since Ivory Towers are basically concern about learning and research for socio-economic development, Tai Solarin University of Education will advance this obligation beyond what the limited resources of the state could guaranteed and by implications require more hands to carry out these activities, which without doubt will provide employment opportunities for people in the state.

Suffice it to say that the host state and host community of every Federal Government establishment enjoy some level of preference and priority as a reflection of local content and without compromising federal character.

Without mincing words and in total contrast to the prophecy of doom the former Governor advocated, the people of Ogun State would continue to enjoy employment opportunities as before at the University, with more benefits and privileges.

Talking about admission quotas, prospective students of Ogun extraction would be given necessary attention since the state is one of the catchment areas of the university, Senator Gbenga Daniel should have known this before coming out to mislead unsuspecting residents of the state out of envy and shenanigans.

Like the way Gbenga Daniel enviously and fruitlessly changed narratives of the Gateway International Agro-cargo Airport, it is evident that the former Governor is presently in pain with the level of achievements recorded by the Dapo Abiodun-led administration in the last six year, surpassing that of his predecessors combined.

On this remarkable development in Ogun State, we salute the commitment and creativity of Prince Dapo Abiodun; a man with impeccable pedigree in education and academic excellence, being a son of teachers, he has the satisfactory understanding of how education should be and relentlessly changing the old order for good.

In conclusion, I want to remind Otunba Gbenga Daniel that unlike the wasteful and careless administration he superintended, Prince Dapo Abiodun is prudent, frugal and meticulous about state's resources and he would never shortchange the people he loves and cares for with passion, so the issue of management of resources raised by the Senator does not arise at all.

Finally, I want to salute the sagacity and dexterity of a late war veteran and Commander of American Army, who later became the 34th American President, Dwight D. Eisenhower, who posited", Pessimism Never Won Any Battle".

Olaniyi Ajibola writes from Ibara, Abeokuta.

Ede Poly Makes New Appointments

The Governing Council of Federal Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, has approved the appointment of Dr. Akorede Muftau Diyaolu as the Polytechnic's Librarian.

This is contained in a statement by the Institution's Ag. Director, Information, Protocol &Public Relations Department, Sola Lawal, the copy which was made available to newsmen on Wednesday, the appointments according to the statement takes effect from Tuesday, 1st April, 2025.

The nature of the appointment predicates on a single term of five (5) years. The statement added that the new Librarian until his appointment serves as the Acting Librarian at the Federal Schol of Surveying, Oyo town, in Oyo State.

In the same vein, the Governing Council of the Polytechnic also approved the appointments of Miss. Margaret Oyedoyin Olajide and Prince Titus Olagunju Adewole , as Ag. Registrar and Ag. Bursar respectively.

Their appointments take effect from Tuesday, 1st April, 2025, the appointment which is renewable is for an initial period of six months or terminates on assumption of duty of a new Registrar and Bursar.

The Management, on behalf of the Governing Council of the Polytechnic, staff and the students, therefore, congratulates the new appointees and as well wishes them a successful tenure in office.

Southern Governors Forum mourns Katsina gov's mother


THE Southern Governors Forum has condoled the governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Dikko Umaru Radda, over the death of his mother, Hajiya Safara’u Umaru Barebari, on Sunday.



In a statement signed by the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and made available to newsmen in Abeokuta on Sunday, the forum said the passing of Hajia Safara’u Umaru Barebari, being a mother who had given her all in training and nurturing her children, including the governor, was bound to be heartbreaking.



It noted, however, that the fulfilled life she lived, especially in her service to her community and the people of Katsina State as a whole, was more than enough consolation.


The forum added that her transition in the holy month of Ramadan during which, with other Muslim faithful, she was engaged in prayer and supplications to Almighty Allah, as well as acts of charity, was symbolic.


It added: "The death of one's mother, no matter the age, is always painful. Her love, kindness, devotion and wise counsel cannot be replaced. No doubt, His Excellency, Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, had looked forward to the continued enjoyment of mother's love and company after the Ramadan fast, but Almighty Allah decided to call her home at this time.



"The Southern Governors Forum commiserates with His Excellency, the Government and people of Katsina State over the loss of this precious woman of faith and dignity who was described as a pillar of support and a mother to all, whose kindness and wisdom will be deeply missed.



" We commiserate with Governor Dikko Umaru Radda and his siblings, the Village Head of Radda, Alhaji Kabir Umar Radda , and Hajiya Hauwa Umar Radda and other members of the family on this irreparable loss. May Allah grant her Aljanat Fridaus."

State of Emergency : Tinubu remains a maximum ruler, killed democracy- Jackson Lekan Ojo

A security expert and global affairs analyst, High Chief Jackson Olalekan Ojo, has said that the day President Bola Tinubu declared State of Emergency in Rivers State was the day democracy was killed in Nigeria, describing the President as a 'maximum ruler'.

Ojo added that while the President consciously and intentionally killed democracy by that singular act, the National Assembly against their rules and regulations buried democracy by affirming the Emergency Rule through voice vote.

According to Ojo, the section 305 of the 1999 constitution the President relied upon on his declaration was blatantly misapplied by the flagrant failure to follow some of the conditions attached to declaration of state of Emergency, which include a state of war, large scale insurrection or internal upheaval that could lead to war and in the case of natural disaster.

The security expert explained that no where in the constitution does a President was conferred with the power to collapse democratic structure under the guise of Emergency Rule, saying such act contravenes the spirit, letter and the intent of the Nigeria's constitution.

He went further to carpet the leadership of the National Assembly for using voice votes in the determination of such important national issue instead of head count, calling them a mere stooges of President Tinubu, who are out to do the biddings of the President at the detriment of Nigerians and against the dictates of the constitution.

Ojo insisted that the Emergency Rule in Rivers State has aggravated the state of insecurity in the Niger Delta region and as well eroded the confidence of Nigerians in the three organs of government and all its agencies.

"By the declaration of Emergency Rule in Rivers State as a response to mere disagreement between two political gladiators, President Bola Tinubu has exposed himself as an autocratic leader and pretentious democrat; the day of the declaration was a very dark day in the political history of Nigeria.

"It was the day democracy was gruesomely assassinated in Nigeria and more seriously the day the National Assembly affirmed the aberration of Mr President was the day democracy was interned with concrete without any hope of resurrection, it was a bad moment for Nigeria and Nigerians.

"It is very unfortunate that President Tinubu in his speech during the declaration referred to Governor Fubara as a despot while he himself is a super-despot, he even inadvertently indicted his government and all the security agencies under him by saying that oil pipelines were being vandalised.

"The salient question is who is saddled with the responsibility of protecting the oil pipelines? And do security agencies report to Fubara? It is a shame that despite the massive deployment of arrays of security agencies and private security apparatus to protect public infrastructure like pipelines, Mr. President is still putting the blame of the failure of his government and agencies on Governor Fubura.

"The President did not even bother to investigate if the incident was as a result of obsolete infrastructure or sabotage; obviously, this act of President Tinubu is unacceptable, as there is no balance of judgement, while Fubara was removed abruptly as a punishment for his involvement in rivalry with his predecessor, unfortunately, Wike remains untouchable ", Ojo retorted.

Ogun to Take Over 9 Megawatts Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority's Hydro Power Plant - Abiodun

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has disclosed that the state government is considering generating electricity from the 9 Megawatts hydro power plant, located within the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority.

The governor, who stated this during an on-the-spot assessment of facilities at the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority on Friday, said that his administration is already in alliance with the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) on the modalities for the takeover.

He said that taking over the hydro power plant will boost his administration's plan to improve power supply across the state, as it would be merged with the 30 Megawatts power plant in Onijanganjangan, which, being gas-fired, would ensure that the state has the right energy mix.

Governor Abiodun stated that the abandoned dam and hydro power plant, commissioned in 1983, represents stranded renewable energy that his administration intends to take advantage of.

He described the idea behind the establishment of the dam as noble, as it was meant to manage water outflow from neighbouring countries, local water tributaries, irrigation, power generation, and farming, among others.

"From the information we have, one of the three turbines was commissioned, but the other two were not commissioned because they were not fully installed.

"We have been engaging with the Bureau of Public Enterprises, and there is an alliance between our government and the Bureau to take over this hydro power plant and merge it with our gas-fired plant so that we have the right energy mix.

"And that is another reason why we are here: to see what we can do to ensure that the stranded or idle power plants are fully optimized.

"I am sure that in the next few weeks, engineers will be here to ascertain the integrity and how we can resuscitate this plant for the use and benefit of our sons and daughters of Ogun State under our Ogun State Light Up Project. I mentioned earlier that we are going to have power plants in Abeokuta, Ijebu, Remo, and Yewa to ensure that we have enough power supply," he said.

The Governor also spoke on the need to turn the land around the River Basin into farm clusters to take advantage of the presence of water and irrigation for all-year farming seasons, in line with the Renewed Hope Food Initiative of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to him, the vast land around the River Basin axis is also suitable for cattle farming, as cattle require water.

"We've seen that we can further utilize the potential that the dam offers. We will ensure that we look at the ownership of farmlands around here, ensure that there is proper acquisition of those farms, and ensure that those farms are properly farmed, particularly under the Renewed Hope Food Initiative, to ensure we grow what we eat and eat what we grow," he added.

Governor Abiodun applauded the forebears of the country for conceiving the project, stating, "This project is laudable, but just like many federal government ideas and projects, most times, you find them not sustained and not fully optimized, and this is no exception."

Governor Abiodun also noted that the Managing Director of the River Basin has debunked the rumors that it is the water from the dam that causes the perennial flooding in Isheri, adding that his administration would look into the claims of the Managing Director that the flooding is a result of water from other sources.

As Abiodun opens up Ogun East West and Centre for business

By Funmi Branco

THE fifth democratically elected governor of Ogun State being a vastly experienced business mogul and ex-boardroom guru, it is no surprise that the Gateway State is being opened up left, right and centre for business. With the exception of Lagos, Ogunis Nigeria’s top investment destination, and continues to harness the gains of the business-friendly policies of the current administration led by Prince Dapo Abiodun. That much was attested to by the President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji AlikoDangote, this week. Dangote, who lamented that his cement factory at Itori, Ewekoro was pulled down twice during the immediate past administration, said he and his company could not but return to the Gateway State given Prince Dapo Abiodunadministration's vision and deliberate policies focused on attracting investors.

Hear Dangote, speaking on Monday during a courtesy visit to the governor in his office at Oke-Mosan Abeokuta: "I, especially, will like to commend in a special way my good friend and brother, your Excellency,the governor of Ogun State, for your vision, and deliberate policies that focus on attracting enterprises through an immense support for the private sector which is now attracting investors. Our factory at Itoro was pulled down twice. When we started the second time, they did not only demolish the factory, but also the fence, so we left. But right now, because of his Excellency, our governor, Prince DapoAbiodun, we are back. When you get to the factory, you will be surprised at what we have done. We earlier on abandoned our vision of investing in the Olokola Free Trade Zone (OKFTZ), but because of your policies and investor-friendly environment, I want to say we are back and are going to work with the state government and return to Olokola and plans are underway to construct the largest port in the country.” On completion, the total capacity of the company's cement plants in the state will be in the neighborhood of 18 million metric tons per annum, making it the highest cement producing state or region in Africa.


Given the pace of events in Ogun State, it could not have been any wonder that last weekend, like most weekends, was a busy one for the governor. The governor, in company with the stateCommissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, embarked on an inspection tour of ongoing projects in the Ogun East Senatorial District. Among the road projects visited were the Iperu - Ode Remo - Sapade Road (Phase 3), Sagamu (Hospital Road Junction) - Ayepe Road, AwokoyaRoad, Ijebu Ode Road, Igbeba/Talbort/Yidi/Stadium/LubaRoad/Oke Aje Market Road, Ondo Ereko Road, and IkangbaRoad. Excitement was in the air as the governor toured the governor project sites. It was cheers galore as residents of the affected areas spoke of the relief that the road projects had brought to them after failed promises by the immediate past administration. As a matter of fact, many of the residents wondered aloud a second-term governor could still be undertaking large-scale road projects at a time when many states are struggling to secure funds for infrastructure.


Speaking during the tour, Governor Dapo Abiodun averred that his administration had succeeded in rewriting Ogun's State’s developmental story, noting that his administration is building a dry port to further open up the state for more investment opportunities, in addition to the over 4,000 affordable houses built for medium and upper-income earners in Abeokuta, Ilaro, Sagamu, Iperu, Ijebu-Ode and Ota. Hear him: "We have built over 4,000, going to 5,000 affordable houses for medium and upper-income earners across the state. In Ilaro, the people are eager for me to come and commission those houses. We have them in Iperu, Sagamu, and two in Abeokuta. We started our urban regeneration at the GRA in Abeokuta and began building the PMB estate also in Abeokuta. You can feel my excitement today because I can look at all that and even see the clips from the airport where the conveyor belts, metal detectors, and luggage scanners have started working, and I said to myself, 'Something new has happened in Ogun State,' and this needs to be sustained."

Saying that 11 roads with huge economic impact on the lives of the people had been identified and awarded for reconstruction across the state, the governor assured that fairness, equity, and inclusivity would always be key considerations in executing projects. But he then added a caveat: "There are many roads we would like to do, but the truth is that no administration can reconstruct all the required roads in eight years; it's impossible… I think I can beat my chest and say we have probably constructed more roads than two administrations combined together."


Speaking at Ode-Remo, the governor disclosed that contract for the construction of the 12-kilometer Akaka-Ilara-Ilisan road had been awarded, adding that the construction of the Ode-Isara road would commence soon. The governor inspected the 15-kilometer Sagamu-Iperu-Ode-Sapaade road, an arterial route that serves as a bypass to the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway; the 14-kilometer Sagamu-Ayepe road in Sagamu Local Government Area, and the Igbeba junction-Yidi road, a road designed with a three-feet drainage to ensure free flow of water during the rainy season, having previously been a "swimming pool," but now well-designed to curb the perennial erosion afflicting the city.

The projects stretching over 200 kilometers are of course strategic. Most of the affected communities have huge agricultural potential that will burst forth with proper road networking. Besides, investors are trooping into the state from all parts of the world and the enhanced road network will facilitate their business. Of course, the governor, having previously inaugurated landmark road projects in all parts of the state, including the Lagos-Abeokuta road and the Abeokuta-sagmu expressway in Ogun Central, turned attention to the roads in Ogun East in the spirit of democratizing projects. It is a no-brainer that spreading development projects across all zones in the state will foster a sense of belonging, increase accessibility to social infrastructure, guarantee equitable distribution of resources, and reduce disparity and the feeling of exclusion by previously marginalized groups in the state. This, apparently, has positive implications for balanced growth, the development of the local economy, enhanced sustainable development, improved public services and the enhancement of social cohesion and bonding the among citizenry.


As an administrator, the Iperu-born prince has always harped on creating an enabling environment for all parts of the state to thrive. It was in the spirit of that inclusivity that he recently sought and obtained presidential approval to convert the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) into a federal university. At the end of the day, nothing is to be lost in democratizing projects and ensuring that each zone has its fair share. On the contrary, much is to be gained from it, and Prince Abiodun has been very clear in articulating this core principle guiding his agenda tagged Building our Future Together. The future promises to be very bright.

Branco sent this piece through; funmibranco@aol. com

Nigerians should be wary of Senator Natasha- Jackson Olalekan Ojo

A leading security expert in Nigeria, Jackson Olalekan Ojo has raised alarm over the recent development at the National Assembly, involving the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and Senator representing Kogi Central, Mrs Natasha Apoti-Uduagan.

It would be recalled that the Senator had accused Akpabio of sexual harassment following disagreement over sitting arrangement, which eventually led to her suspension by ethnics committee of the chamber.

Speaking to Journalists on Saturday in Portharcourt, the Rivers state capital, Ojo said the way Natasha is going about the issue suggests a covert plot by some divisive elements in the National Assembly or outside the parliament who are hell bent to attack and destroy the Senate President through Natasha.

The Security expert added that Natasha has taken the issue beyond the context of mere disagreement at the Senate and subsequent sanction, saying her presentation at the United Nations regrettably tarnishes the image of Nigeria in the global stage.

He called on Nigerians to be wary of Natasha and caution her on her recent tantrums aimed at destroying Nigeria's image within the comity of nations.

He said:" The whole world is looking at us the way this matter between Senator Natasha and the Senate President is going, as many are clamouring for thorough investigation to ascertain the truth of the matter.

"Since there is no technology that can confirm the claims of the duo, it is only through investigation that the truth can be discovered, meanwhile, I am worried because this issue had happened for a very long time and Senator Natacha did not deem it fit to discuss it with anybody including her political leaders until the issue of the sitting arrangement happened.

"To the chagrin of everybody, what naturally should have been limited to the shore of Nigeria through court of competent jurisdiction had been taken to the international community just to disgrace Nigeria and Nigerians.

"You know that this western world does not like Nigeria, these are the people that had predicted the break up of Nigeria long ago but God disappointed them, now they now see opportunity to harass Nigeria through Senator Natacha.

"I read something from South Africa about this issue and I was ashamed to be a Nigerian, this is really bad and terrible, it will adversely affect Nigerian travellers around the world, the matter is naturally for internal consumption and not for this global embarrassment, it has gone beyond a matter between Akpabio and Senator Natasha, it is now about Nigeria and Nigerians ".

Urban Renewal: How we Are Turning Our Major Towns Into Smart Cities---Abiodun


Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has said that the vision of his administration is taking shape with urban renewal initiatives across major towns in the state.

Abiodun, who disclosed this when he visited ongoing construction at the Ibara Government Reservation Area (GRA), Abeokuta, said housing projects initiated by his administration had added lustre and beauty to all major cities across the state.

He said the housing initiatives in Kobape, Iperu, Ijebu Ode and Ilaro had transformed the areas and they are, consequently, now being referred to as smart cities.

The governor spoke on the urban renewal schemes of his administration as the first phase of 35 houses are completed at the Ibara GRA.

Speaking during the inspection of the project site, Governor Abiodun said his administration is determined to turn GRAs, which he described as the state's treasure, to what they should be.

Abiodun decried the deplorable condition of the State's GRAs, which he said had become slums and unfit for humans to live in.

He said: "We began to carry out urban renewal projects in Abeokuta, the state capital, in phases with three hectares of land. The first phase has 30-35 houses and what we have done is exemplary.

"The construction is done by our artisans which is of course another way of creating employment. The houses are affordable despite their high quality. This project presents a new face of Abeokuta."

The governor expressed satisfaction with the level of work done so far and noted that though work is still in progress, drainages, sidewalks, solar street lights, electricity and water reticulation are already in place.

"You can see that the designs are very pleasing to the eyes and the completion is also commendable. This project is not executed by foreign contractors and it is not even in contract but constructed by direct labour to ensure that our citizens who are artisans like painters, bricklayers, carpenters, welders participate in this construction," he added.

Governor Abiodun commended the Commissioner for Housing and his team for implementing his vision, saying "if you have a vision and there is no team, that is up yo scratch in terms of implementation. As we envisioned, the team has worked hand in gloves with us and the result is as clear as the day."

He added: "Abeokuta is the capital of the Gateway State and everything we do must be of Ogun standard. These structures can be compared to any structure you see anywhere in the world and I believe we have done this to further bring more people to come and live in Abeokuta."

While assuring that similar projects would be duplicated in other GRAs in Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode and Ota, Prince Abiodun affirmed the continued conversion of the push to pull factor from Lagos, saying his administration believes that it would bring in more people to come, live and invest in Ogun State.

At the President Muhammadu Buhari Estate, along Kobape Road, Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun noted that the project was inherited from the previous administration but lamented that it was fraught with litigations which his administration successfully settled out of of court.

Abiodun, who described the project as noble and meant to provide decent accomodation to the people at a location that typifies Abeokuta, said the initiative could not be abandoned as the state's commonwealth was expended on it.

He said: "We broke down the construction of the estate into phases, we had to redesign the estate so that it can be functional. We reallocated and adjusted the plot sizes and today, we have about 116 houses of different types of fully detached and semi-detached houses which are of high quality and can be compared to an estate that is befitting anywhere in the world.

"The semi-detached houses are four bedrooms each, all ensuite with boys quarters, a private sitting room upstairs with a drive in that can take about four cars. The free detached houses have the same with a study and an attached boys quarters.

"We are struggling to manage the level of interest in the estate. Our sons and daughters in the diaspora are sending deposits to subscribe to the houses. Top company executives in Lagos and Abuja are coming in their numbers to pay for these properties. We are now trying to roll out the second phase so that we can meet with the demands."

He said the take over of the estate by his administration is a demonstration that government is a continuum and projects that have direct impact on the people should not be abandoned due to personal differences.

"I saw beyond personality, I saw in the collective commonwealth of the state that had been put into it. I saw the benefits that this estate will provide for the sons and daughters of Ogun State and all those who have decided to make the state their home and we decided to tackle all the issues and today, we have a first class estate," he said.

He called on prospective buyers to take advantage of the low prices to buy theirs, as the prices may go up as a result of inflation.

Commissioner for Housing, Jagunmolu Akande Omoniyi, said the Ibara GRA renewal project is meant to modernize the old and abandoned housing estate that was built in 1976 at the creation of the state.

He said four clusters are currently working on the site while the first badge of about 200 duplexes are ready for commissioning in the next two months, while others would be ready by December this year.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Housing, Prince Faruq Adenugba, appreciated the governor for putting up sure a magnificent estate, which he noted would signpost Abeokuta, calling on people to subscribe to them while the prices are still affordable.

Ogun Govt Hails Tinubu as FG Adopts TASUED as Federal University

The Ogun State Government has commended the Federal Government for its decision to adopt the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) as a federal institution.
The state Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, in a statement by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, said that the move by the Federal Government will bring positive transformation to the specialized institution.
He highlighted the Ogun State Government’s sustained efforts in ensuring TASUED’s sustainability and growth.
Governor Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to educational advancement, emphasizing that TASUED will continue to serve as a centre of excellence in teacher education.
The Federal Government had officially adopted TASUED as a Federal University, marking a significant milestone for Nigeria’s first specialized university of education.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the transition on Friday, following an invitation from the Ogun State Government.
The President emphasized that the decision recognizes TASUED’s crucial role in teacher education and serves as a tribute to the contributions of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Dr. Tai Solarin to Nigeria’s educational development.
He also acknowledged the intervention of the Awujale of Ijebuland, whose efforts were instrumental in preventing the university’s closure in 2012.
The transition is expected to attract increased funding, enhance infrastructure development, and elevate TASUED’s national recognition, further solidifying Ogun State’s status as a hub for academic excellence in Nigeria.
With this transition, TASUED joins Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education and Adeyemi Federal University of Education as one of only three universities of education in the country.
The adoption also aligns with the Federal Government’s vision to strengthen teacher training and improve educational standards nationwide as part of President Tinubu's intense commitment to advancing Nigeria Human Capital development and increasing the quality of education which depends on several factors, including deepening high quality Teacher training.
The adoption of TASUED now brings to seven, the number of new Universities of Education that the Federal Government has added in the last few years to the previously existing ones.
These Universities are: Federal University of Education, Kano, Kano State, Federal University of Education, Zaria, Kaduna State, Adeyemi University of Education, Ondo, Ondo State, Alvan Ikoku University of Education, Owerri, Imo State, Federal University of Education, Pankshin, Plateau State and the Federal University of Education, Kontagora, Niger State.

Ogun Approves Reconstruction of Additional 11 Roads

The Ogun State Government has approved 11 roads, spread across the three senatorial districts in the state, for reconstruction.

The approval was part of the outcome of the State Executive Council meeting held over the weekend, presided over by Governor Dapo Abiodun.

Notable among the roads is the Akute Bridge to Agbado (Lateef Jakande) Train Terminal/Pass/Agbado Bridge, with a length of 9.2 km.

The construction of laybys and some adjoining roads was also approved along with the main contract.

Also approved for reconstruction are the Iperu Junction to Ilishan Roundabout (Gateway International Airport Road), with a length of 5.5 km; Imasayi-Igan Okoto-Ayetoro Road Phase 2B (4 km); Imasayi (end of phase 1) to Igan Okoto, Phase 2A (3 km); and Gao Junction to Ibiade Road (3.8 km).

Others are Abeokuta Obalende-Ijebu Ode (2.75 km); Osinubi New Road (Araromi Street) Ijebu Ode (1.1 km); Tam Balogun, Ijebu Ode (0.85 km); Federal College Road, Odogbolu (2.93 km); General Hospital - Aferiku, Ipokia (2.8 km); and Oke Erinja to Erinja to Ilobi Road, Phase 2 (1.7 km).

It would be recalled that Governor Abiodun, at the commissioning of the 3.12 km Oke Erinja to Erinja Road on Tuesday, had promised to extend the road reconstruction to Ilobi.

"The Ilobi and Oke-Erinja areas are among our food baskets in the state, and today, we have prioritized the construction of their roads.

"It was not intentional to stop the road at Oke-Erinja. I have heard many times that the Erinja and Ilobi people are like Siamese twins, and I will not separate them.

"So, let me assure you, we will complete that road to Ilobi; we will ensure the road ends at Ilobi," the governor had said.

Prince Abiodun also promised to award the contract for the reconstruction of the Sango-Ijoko-Akute road within one week.

This, he said, is to ensure that the axis is properly linked with a good network of roads, adding that the efforts put in place by his administration on the Akute-Ajuwon, Alagbole-Ajuwon, Giwa-Oke-Aro, and the Alagbole-Akute roads won't be appreciated if the Sango-Ijoko-Akute road is not completed.

"We have not left behind our border communities. In the last two weeks, we have been going to Ifo Local Government several times because of the number of people that migrate between that local government and Lagos every day.

"The Sango-Ijoko-Akute road is a road we are soon going to award, possibly this week. It is quite a lengthy piece of road; that road is about 17 kilometers. It is a major arterial road that connects Ogun West to Ogun Central and, of course, to Lagos," he added.

Ogun Approves Reconstruction of Additional 11 Roads

The Ogun State Government has approved 11 roads, spread across the three senatorial districts in the state, for reconstruction.

The approval which was part of the outcome of the State Executive Council the meeting held over the weekend, presided over by Governor Dapo Abiodun.

Notable among the roads is the Akute Bridge to Agbado (Lateef Jakande) Train Terminal/Pass/Agbado Bridge, with a length of 9.2 km.

The construction of laybys and some adjoining roads was also approved along with the main contract.

Also approved for reconstruction are the Iperu Junction to Ilishan Roundabout (Gateway International Airport Road), with a length of 5.5 km; Imasayi-Igan Okoto-Ayetoro Road Phase 2B (4 km); Imasayi (end of phase 1) to Igan Okoto, Phase 2A (3 km); and Gao Junction to Ibiade Road (3.8 km).

Others are Abeokuta Obalende-Ijebu Ode (2.75 km); Osinubi New Road (Araromi Street) Ijebu Ode (1.1 km); Tam Balogun, Ijebu Ode (0.85 km); Federal College Road, Odogbolu (2.93 km); General Hospital - Aferiku, Ipokia (2.8 km); and Oke Erinja to Erinja to Ilobi Road, Phase 2 (1.7 km).

It would be recalled that Governor Abiodun, at the commissioning of the 3.12 km Oke Erinja to Erinja Road on Tuesday, had promised to extend the road reconstruction to Ilobi.

"The Ilobi and Oke-Erinja areas are among our food baskets in the state, and today we have prioritized the construction of their roads.

"It was not intentional to stop the road at Oke-Erinja. I have heard many times that the Erinja and Ilobi people are like Siamese twins, and I will not separate them.

"So, let me assure you, we will complete that road to Ilobi; we will ensure the road ends at Ilobi," the governor had said.

Prince Abiodun also promised to award the contract for the reconstruction of the Sango-Ijoko-Akute road within one week.

This, he said, is to ensure that the axis is properly linked with a good network of roads, adding that the efforts put in place by his administration on the Akute-Ajuwon, Alagbole-Ajuwon, Giwa-Oke-Aro, and the Alagbole-Akute roads won't be appreciated if the Sango-Ijoko-Akute road is not completed.

"We have not left behind our border communities. In the last two weeks, we have been going to Ifo Local Government several times because of the number of people that migrate between that local government and Lagos every day.

"The Sango-Ijoko-Akute road is a road we are soon going to award, possibly this week. It is quite a lengthy piece of road; that road is about 17 kilometers. It is a major arterial road that connects Ogun West to Ogun Central and, of course, to Lagos," he added.

Abiodun Condoles Odogbolu Kingdom Over Monarch’s Demise

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the people of Odogbolu in the Ogun East Senatorial District over the passing of their revered monarch, Oba Adedeji Onagoruwa, the Alaye of Odogbolu.

The esteemed monarch passed away on Monday at the age of 80 after a brief illness.

In a condolence message, Governor Abiodun described the late traditional ruler as a passionate leader who selflessly served his people and contributed significantly to the development of the kingdom.

According to the governor, "Oba Onagoruwa will be deeply missed by his people, given the wisdom and diplomacy he demonstrated in overseeing the affairs of his domain.

He, therefore, prayed for the repose of his soul and for strength and comfort for his immediate family and the people of Odogbolu as they mourn this irreparable loss.

Oba Onagoruwa was indeed a custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition. He ruled his people with love and affection, embodying wisdom and native intelligence.

We take solace in the fact that he left behind an indelible legacy of service and leadership. May God grant his soul eternal rest," Governor Abiodun stated.

That false comparison between Governors Abiodun and Makinde

By Funmi Branco

IF you are not familiar with Ogun State and its governance under Prince Dapo Abiodun, chances are that you can take Olujide Wilanpa’s acerbic piece, A Tale Of Two Governors, published in the February 18, 2025 edition of an online platform, Newscoven, at face value. In that bolekaja piece, author Wilanpa, assuming that this is his real name, sets out to condemn and demonise the Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and his administration and ingratiate himself to the governor of Oyo State, Mr Seyi Makinde. To be sure, if all that Wilanpa set out to do was to eulogise Governor Makinde, there would have been nothing wrong with that. He has the right to believe either that the Oyo governor is the best in the South-West or indeed the entire country. It would be insulting, given the monumental achievements that have trailed his occupancy of the Oke Mosan Government House in the last five years, to think that the Ogun State helmsman is, or can be, diminished by such statements.
However, while pretending to write about Makinde, Wilanpa’s real aim is to put down the Ogun governor using blatant falsehood, false equivalences, and innuendo. This is an open challenge: let anyone, ANYONE at all, prove through statistical evidence that Ogun is behind any state in Nigeria except Lagos, the country’s economic capital. Use submissions by the statistical agencies, local or international, to prove that Ogun State under Abiodun is an economically or even infrastructurally backward state. There is a reason the Gateway State is Nigeria’s top investment destination after Lagos. Ogun under Abiodun is one of the few states that can pay salaries without federal allocation. The IGR has more than tripled under him.


With unimpeachable evidence, I show below that “A Tale Of Two Governors” is just another “tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.” In that ridiculously uninformed and patently cancerous piece, the author submits as follows: “A drive on that arterial road always showed that the Oyo State stretch of the road is well-policed by security agencies and Amotekun Corps, while the Ogun State stretch is not. You can draw your conclusions or ask those who ply Lagos-Ibadan express where they feel safer.” Ah! How people ridicule themselves through sheer buffoonery! The axis that Mr Wilanpa dismisses in his haste to demonise Abiodun just saved the South-West geopolitical zone from terrorist attacks! Just last Saturday, the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, intercepted a group of youths numbering 20 and possessing dangerous weapons during his routine weekend patrol along the Eledumare, Bamboo, Fidiwo, Foursquare, Alapako, and the Onigari axis on the Ogun-Oyo border. The weapons recovered from the suspects included “daggers, knives, cutlasses and objects suspected to be charms, among others.” If the Ogun axis of the Lagos/Oyo section of the Lagos-Ibadan expressway is not well policed, how then was this potentially life and civilization-saving operation made possible?


It is indeed a tragedy that Wilanpa can claim that Ogun State, a state described by no less a personality than the Inspector General of Police as one of the safest and most peaceful states in the country, is toying with security. Only last month, the Abiodun government recruited 690 Amotekun personnel, even as the governor gave approval for the recruitment of an additional 1000, declaring that the state is a no-go- area for criminals. This was during the passing out parade ceremony of the 690 trainees, Batch D of the Corps held at the Gateway International Stadium, Sagamu. Hear him on the occasion: “We will continue to strengthen the Ogun State Security Network Agency(Amotekun Corps) to ensure that you have the tools and Infrastructure required to perform your duties effectively and diligently. I am today, based on what I have seen by the level of your preparedness and commitment, approving the recruitment of another 1000 Amotekun Corps. This will bring the total strength to over 2000. They will of course be renumerated very well in line with the civil service structure.I will also be approving additional logistics, including but not limited to vehicles, electric motorcycles and all that is required to allow you to discharge your responsibilities to the best of your abilities.” As the governor has stated, Ogun state’s geographical location as the gateway to other parts of the country poses a security challenge. But his government is determined to keep it safe and prosperous.


The writer claims he is not “trying to fan the embers of discord between the two governors, who are friends or, at best, brothers,” yet he declares with a bold face that the Ogun people would gladly swap their governor with the Oyo governor. Apart from being so disrespectful to the good people of Ogun State who rewarded their governor with a second term in 2023, this statement suggests that the people were not intelligent in their choice of governor. The problem with hack and hired writers is the poverty of morals, the absence of conscience, the use of talent in pursuit of pecuniary gains. The governor who built the Ogun State Agro-Cargo International Airport, which will begin scheduled and non-scheduled flights in the next few weeks and will generate 25,000 jobs, has turned his state into a giant construction site since being sworn-in as the fifth democratically elected governor in 2019.


It is ridiculous that the writer can say that the Ogun helmsman is not recruiting new teachers, and yet claim to be resident in Ogun State. Only recently, Governor Abiodun announced his administration’s plan to recruit 2,000 more teachers in 2025 under the Ogun Teach initiative, thus increasing the number of interns from 4,000 to 6,000 and helping to bridge the gap in the state’s student-to-teacher ratio. That was not all: Abiodun noted that his administration, in line with current realities, had increased the wages of the Ogun Teach interns in the state to N80,000. In any case, just as Wilanpa was publishing his moronic piece, newspapers across the country carried a great piece of news: “Ogun To Get Uninterrupted Electricity as Abiodun Commissions Power Plant in Eight weeks Time.” If an Independent Power Plant that will provide 24 hours uninterrupted electricity to most parts of the State, especially Abeokuta, the State capital, will be inaugurated in the next two months, then how can it be doubted that the Ogun State governor, one of the first governors to announce a new minimum in the country following the recent legislation by the National Assembly, is conscious of his place in history?

The 30 megawatts power plant located at Onijogangan near Ewekoro, is the first phase of Ogun State Light Up Project, run in collaboration with private sector partners. According to Governor Abiodun: "Abeokuta Metropolis will require more than 30 Megawatts but this is the first phase of the planned 100 Megawatts Megawatts power generation capacity. I have gone round and have taken note of progress of work so far. I have seen the control room, I have seen the turbines, I have seen that will be responsible for ensuring that the gas is compressed. We have seen the gas pipelines that will be completed between three to six weeks. The gas compressor is there and there is diesel tank as well. I am quite excited and I am sure that by the grace of God in th next eight weeks, you will be here with me to commission this plant to the glory of God and the use of those who love in Abeokuta.”




In his haste to ingratiate himself to the Oyo governor, Wilanpa claimed that Governor Abiodun’s palliative strategy after subsidy removal was to “give10,000 or ₦20,000 peanuts.” God have mercy! Following subsidy removal, Governor Abiodun announced a N5 billion intervention fund covering education, health, workers’ deductions and food palliative to cushion the corollaries of the rising cost of living and inflation. He provided a minimum of five exercise books for all 850,000 students in Ogun public primary and secondary schools, one-time N10,000 education support grant for at least 100,000 pupils in public primary and secondary schools in the state, an education grant of N50,000 each for all the 27,600 indigent students in tertiary institutions nationwide, insurance health cover for over 70,000 beneficiaries; free pre-natal care, an additional N5,000 per birth and free post-natal care in State Hospitals and Primary Health Care centres, and food palliatives for about 300,000 households across the state. Abiodun announced immediate payment of N10,000 to workers in Ogun State and the reduction of working days. Before then, he had rolled out a gas-powered public transport system, with the state’s wifi-enabled buses converted from PMS to gas-powered vehicles, saying that public buses would cost much less if they were CNG rather than PMS-powered. That was not all: the governor and his team launched electric motorbikes and tricycles all over the state. As a matter of fact, many states, including Oyo, approached Ogun for CNG conversion of their public buses. Ogun also trained Oyo women on the Nigeria for Women Project.


Local mechanics, a vital part of the conversion engineering, were trained, while conversion stations were set up in senatorial districts, allowing for the rapid conversion of commercial and public mass transit buses and vehicles across the state. The initiative provided training and job opportunities for thousands of technicians and mechanics around the state. Some of the buses were given to workers and students, while some plied the Mowe- Ibafo to Berger in Lagos and Redeemed axis to Lagos Island, a heavily congested corridor. The government engaged in bulk purchase of food and sold it at controlled prices, paid hazard allowance to health and medical personnel and peculiar allowance for public servants, paid leave bonuses to public servants, and gave immediate cash-backing for the quarterly payment of gratuities to pensioners; distributed food palliatives to vulnerable citizens while mandating the Gateway Trading Company to establish food distribution outlets across the state and sell the items at the rates obtainable in the market before the removal of fuel subsidy.

Wilanpa and his gang came a thousand years too late. Dapo Abiodun is governor of governors.

Branco submits this piece through; funmibranco@aol.com

Abiodun Condoles Otegbola's Family Over Passing of Ex-Lawmaker

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has commiserated with the family of former lawmaker, Sen. Ayodeji Otegbola, over his demise, describing him as a cerebral politician and selfless community leader.

Otegbola, who represented Ogun West Senatorial District at the Red Chamber during the aborted Third Republic, reportedly died on Monday at the age of 91.

Governor Abiodun, in a condolence message, eulogised the distinct virtues of the late Asiwaju of Awori land, including his passion for community cohesion and development, adding that he exhibited the core values of a grassroots politician.

He added that Otegbola's contributions to the development of Ogun State and Nigeria at large would remain indelible in the consciousness of the people for a very long time, as he prayed for the repose of his soul.

"Senator Ayo Otegbola exemplified the essence of a thought leader with a midas touch. As the Chairman of Federal Housing Authority between 2002 and 2004, he brought his deep experience in estate surveying to bear on the job, which accelerated housing schemes all over Nigeria , including the FCT.

"His legacies projects in Gwarinpa Housing Schemes and many others around the FCT can never be over-emphasized, he was indeed an achiever and great leader.

"We will sorely miss him in Ogun State and Nigeria at large. May God Almighty rest his soul and protect the lovely family he left behind", Abiodun said.

Clark's exit, glorious conclusion of monumental chapter in Nigerian history--SGF chair, Dapo Abiodun



Chairman of the Southern Governors Forum, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has described the death of Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), leader, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, as a profound loss to Nigeria, yet a glorious conclusion of a monumental chapter in Nigerian history.




Abiodun, who described the former Federal Commissioner for Information as one of the greatest leaders ever produced by the South-South geopolitical zone of the country and arguably the most engaging voice for the redressing of decades of exploitation and marginalisation of the Niger Delta peoples, said the exit of the foremost nationalist, educationist, legal practitioner, freedom fighter and restructuring advocate marks an era that can never be forgotten.



In a statement issued in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, on Tuesday, Abiodun said whatever sorrow the exit of the foremost Ijaw leader springs has been tempered by the giant strides he left in various sectors of the Nigerian national life and the unimpeachable accomplishments he achieved in about 70 years of distinguished national service.



He said: "The exit of Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark at 97 marks a watershed in Nigerian history. As a man who lived through the struggles and triumphs of the colonial, Independence and post-independence eras with all the twists and turns, Chief Clark was simply a personification of Nigerian history. He served with distinction for about seven decades and was one of the most accomplished voices of courage and progressivism that Nigeria has ever witnessed.



"The outpouring of emotions following his death, coming on the heels of the transition of a kindred spirit, the inimitable Pa Ayo Adebanjo, indeed marks a moment that all Nigerians must be proud of.



"His activities during the pre-independence period when he was elected as Councillor for Bomadi in 1953 and during his stint with the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC), not forgetting his deeply intellectual posture as a member of the West African Students' Union while a student at Holborn College, London, marks him out as a patriot without compare.



"From his indelible imprints in the 60s when he served as a member of an advisory committee to the military governor of the Mid-Western Region province, David Ejoor and as a cabinet member during the administration of Military Governor Samuel Ogbemudia and his appointment as Federal Commissioner of Information in 1975 by the then Head of state, General Yakubu Gowon, in 1975, Chief Clark demonstrated unwavering commitment to the Nigerian cause.




"As commissioner for education, Chief Clark was instrumental to the establishment of the Mid-West College of Technology that later birthed the University of Benin. The ex-senator and founder of Edwin Clark University loved education with unblemished passion.



"Despite his advancing years, Chief Clark readily and consistently wrote letters to critical organs of the Nigerian State whenever he saw dangerous signals in the polity. He will be sorely missed."



"He was a courageous fighter till literally his last breath, galvanising the Southern and Middle Belt peoples for the restructuring of the Nigerian polity and preaching peace at all times. He was indeed a patriot of the finest breed."

Ogun State Government Refutes Ondo’s Claim Over Eba Island, Warns Against Communal Crisis

The Ogun State Government has firmly dismissed claims by its Ondo State counterpart regarding the ownership of Eba Island, where an oil well is currently under investigation. It emphasized that the island falls within Ogun State’s jurisdiction and cautioned against any attempt to stir communal tensions between the Ijebu and Ilaje peoples, who have historically coexisted peacefully.

The controversy arose after Allen Sowore, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Strategic Communication, issued a statement asserting that Oke-Agor-Isekun, where an abandoned oil well was discovered, belongs to Ondo State and not Ogun State.

In response, Special Adviser to Ogun State Governor on Energy, Mr. Jide Onakoya, described Ondo’s claim as misleading and contrary to established historical, traditional, and legal evidence. It labeled the assertion as an affront to the Awujale of Ijebu Land and the Ijebu Traditional Council, reiterating that historical records and documented evidence confirm that the disputed area is within Ogun State.

Onakoya clarified that boundary delineations between local and state governments are based on markers recognized by the National Boundary Commission. A thorough examination of relevant maps affirms that Eba Island lies within Ogun Waterside in Ogun State.

Quoting a document from the Palace of Makun-Omi, the statement asserted:
“…. It is INDISPUTABLE that the oil well currently under investigation is located in Eba Island, which falls within Ogun Waterside in Ogun State."

Furthermore, Ogun State condemned Ondo’s claim over Irokun, a community in Ogun Waterside, calling it a reckless attempt to incite conflict. It emphasized that Irokun has been an Ijebu settlement since the colonial era, transitioning through the Western Region to Ogun State. The geographical boundary declarations along the Bight of Benin confirm Irokun and Araromi Seaside as part of Ogun State, with the Onirokun of Irokun being a recognized member of the Ijebu Traditional Council.

Addressing the origins of the misinformation, the Ogun State Government pointed to Oba Samuel Edema, the Molokun of Atijere in Ondo State, as a key instigator. It revealed that in October 2024, Oba Edema contacted Oba Kazeem Adesina Salami, the Osobia of Makun-Omi, seeking permission for a business venture in Eba Island, located in Ogun Waterside. However, the Osobia of Makun-Omi, acting lawfully, declined the request and promptly reported the matter to the Governor of Ogun State, who escalated it to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and security agencies.

Following this, officials from the NNPC and law enforcement agencies visited the area to conduct due diligence. Ogun State asserted that Ondo’s reaction to this legitimate action resulted in a misleading communiqué from the Ilaje Traditional Council, further escalating tensions.

The government condemned attempts at territorial expansion and the misuse of colonial-era documents to justify claims that contradict Nigeria’s constitutional framework. It cited Colonial Government Gazette No. 660, dated April 29, 1950, which clearly defined the boundary between the Ijebu and Ondo provinces, overriding earlier documents such as Government Notices No. 69 of 1919 and No. 114 of 1920. The Gazette, signed by Acting Chief Secretary to the Colonial Government, H.F. Marshall, solidifies Ogun State’s ownership of the disputed territory.

Ogun State reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and urged stakeholders to respect legal boundaries to avoid unnecessary conflict.

Court of Appeal never dismissed our case against Datkems---Ogun govt


..says company purveying falsehood because it has no case


The Ogun State Government has dismissed news reports claiming that the Court of Appeal dismissed an appeal filed by it in a case against Datkems, a company associated with the senator representing Ogun East in the National Assembly, Gbenga Daniel.



In a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to the governor, Hon Kayode Akinmade, on Wednesday, the Ogun State government noted that it merely withdrew one of the four appeals it filed against Datkems in the court having noticed an error in the title, adding that all the appeals are still pending against the company.



This withdrawal, it said, was falsely misrepresented as a judicial victory with intent to deceive the public even while the Court of Appeal is yet to make any pronouncement on the substantive issues and while Datkems was yet to file any cogent response to the allegations against it.



The statement said: "Ogun State Government still has three pending appeals against Datkems before the Ibadan Division of the Court of Appeal.




"With respect to a fourth appeal, the government observed an error in the title of the Notice of Appeal and opted to not proceed with that appeal but to file another. Because the government had expressly informed the court of its decision to
abandon the appeal, the court took a procedural decision to end the appeal and to delete the appeal number. This is without prejudice to the right of the Ogun State Government to reinitiate the appeal.




"The fact remains that Ogun State Government still has three strong appeals against Datkems business. Those appeals are pending, ongoing, and have been adjourned to 19 May 2025 for hearing. Datkems is yet to submit any arguments in those appeals."


Noting that Datkems is understandably eager to exaggerate its position in the court cases, just as it was eager to misrepresent its legal status in the court cases too, the statement recalled that Datkems filed the case against Ogun State Government on 7 September 2023, describing itself as Datkems Enterprises Limited, but Ogun State Government’s diligent investigation exposed it to be a fraud, as no company had ever been registered called Datkems Enterprises.


This, it said, made the case incompetent.


"Datkems had no answer to that point at the trial court and has no answer till today.



" That is why rather than face the appeals, it is busy presenting minor administrative decisions as huge judicial victories. Time will tell. And Ogun State Government will prevail," the statement added.

Ogun Govt Warns Residents Against Damaging Water Infrastructure

The Ogun State government has strongly warned residents of the state, especially contractors working around communities within the state, against damaging water infrastructure, stating that it will arrest and prosecute such individuals.

The state water corporation, in a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Water Resources, Hon. Damilola Otubanjo further condemned the deliberate attempts by some residents to willfully destroy basic water infrastructure, accusing contractors of destroying pipes along the road during construction without making efforts to replace them.

According to her, the corporation is already battling aged and deteriorating facilities without replacement by successive administrations in the state.

It, however, promised to rehabilitate and upgrade that infrastructure to improve the quality of potable water supply to the residents, lamenting that these efforts are being frustrated by the constant damage to its facilities.

"As we are fully committed to rehabilitating and upgrading our water supply networks, one pipe at a time, our efforts to enhance the water sector and ensure the provision of potable water to the citizens of Ogun State are being greatly hampered by the insensitive activities of road contractors.

"These contractors, driven solely by the urgency of road construction, frequently damage our underground pipeline networks with little regard for the consequences of their actions.

"This persistent and avoidable damage has significantly contributed to the rise in Non-Revenue Water (NRW), leading to substantial losses in resources, increased operational costs, and a decline in service efficiency.

"The repercussions of these avoidable infrastructure damages include a high volume of wasted treated water, with bursts and leaks resulting in a massive loss of water that has already undergone rigorous treatment, causing an unnecessary depletion of our limited resources.

"Also, there are escalating repair costs, as frequent damage to pipelines imposes a heavy financial burden on OSWC, diverting funds that could otherwise be used for infrastructure upgrades and service improvements; increased risk of contamination as broken pipes expose treated water to external contaminants, posing serious health hazards to the residents of Ogun State.

"There are disruptions in water supply, as burst pipes lead to service interruptions, depriving communities of access to clean and safe drinking water, and loss of revenue, with damaged pipes resulting in financial losses due to wasted resources and uncollected water revenue.

"Reputational damage to OSWC – Service disruptions and inefficiencies caused by these damages create a false perception of negligence on the part of OSWC, thereby eroding public confidence in our ability to provide essential services."

The corporation reiterated its stance against any act damaging its infrastructure, stating that such behavior will no longer be tolerated, as it will take decisive measures to hold offenders accountable for any damage inflicted upon its assets by enforcing stricter collaboration between OSWC and road construction firms to ensure pre-construction assessments of water pipelines.

Additionally, it stated that the corporation is set to strengthen monitoring and rapid response mechanisms to address incidents of damage swiftly, as well as enhancing public awareness among other measures.

It continued: "The OSWC remains resolute in its commitment to improving water supply across Ogun State. However, these efforts must be supported by responsible practices from all stakeholders, particularly construction companies and contractors. We call on all relevant authorities, agencies, and the general public to join us in preserving and protecting our water assets for the benefit of all.

"We urge road contractors and all stakeholders to act with a sense of responsibility and prioritize infrastructure protection as a fundamental aspect of their operations. Any deliberate or negligent act that compromises our water distribution network will be met with decisive action."

KEESAN -ORILE: OGUN COMMUNITY WITH AGE-LONG QUEST FOR CORONET KING

The history of Keesan Orile, which is located within the jurisdiction of Omala of Imala land, Oba Moses Adelani Adegboyega, Opeifa II, in Abeokuta North Local Government Area of Ogun State is that of the patient dog that is camly waiting to eat the fattest bone.

A sleepy and peaceful community of over hundred years of existence with rich culture and tradition of Yoruba ethnic nationality of the South West Geo-political zone of Nigeria and with agrarian environment of great values, is being dominated by well cultured, courteous and urbane individuals.

The peaceful nature of Keesan Orile within the axis has endeared the town to many in the state and beyond, which had helped in reshaping it's economic advancement and major growth in agriculture, the mainstay of its economy.

Going by the spirit and letter of historical facts and archival findings, Keesan Orile was due for coronet king since the year 1959, the preceeding year of Nigeria's independence, however, the dream of the peaceful town of Keesan Orile was dashed and to the dismay of many, the people remained peaceful and hopeful, continued with appeals and entreaties in the most polite manner.

The communal cohesion and indivisibility of Keesan Orile is next to none, coupled with its Omoluabi ethos that have been entrenched in the town and has become the cultural values and principles among its inhabitants.

However, many indigenes of the town and other friends of the town continued to wonder what could be delaying the upgrading of the Baale status of the town to coronet king, having due for such in the last sixty six years.

The late Baale of the town, High Chief James Ayinde Enitan, who died almost three years ago became Baale in 1972 before his passing in 2022, making forty years of his reign without the expected elevation coming into fruition.

Being moved and touched by this protracted deprivation of right of status, the Omala of Imala kingdom, who is the PRESCRIBED AUTHORITY in the axis had made several efforts to get the long-ovedue elevation of Baaale Keesan Orile done through concerned authorities to no avail.

Meanwhile, the present Baale of the town, High Chief Waheed Adeyemi Abiodun Abodunrin, an intellectual par excellence and Philanthropist of note, who had brought his years of experience in corporate world to bear in the development of the town in particular and Ogun State in general has expressed optimism that the Governor of the State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, with his royal pedigree will make the upgrading happen soonest and by implication make history

He explained that Governor Dapo Abiodun since his assumption of office had broken many age-long jinx and made history, adding that the age-long deprivation of coronet in Keesan Orile would not be an exception for the Governor this time around.

Economic Transformation Hinges on Education, Skills Development – Ogun Commissioner



Ogun State Commissioner for Budget and Planning, Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan, has said that the State Government’s vision to modernize its eight technical colleges is grounded in the understanding that education and skill acquisition are critical drivers of sustainable growth.



Olabimtan, who is the Vice-Chairman of the Steering Committee for the Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP), said that the economic transformation of any state or nation depends significantly on education and skills development.



He spoke during an inspection of the ongoing rehabilitation of the Government Technical College, Ajegunle, in Ewekoro Local Government Area of the state.



"One of the pillars of this project is skill development. The whole idea is that you cannot have economic transformation without prioritising education and skill acquisition, which are essential for the State's growth," Olabimtan said.



He also called on community leaders to collaborate with the government to ensure the sustainability and effective use of rehabilitated technical colleges.



The commissioner commended the Baale of Ajegunle, Chief Musibau Ogunpola, for his proactive engagement and encouraged other community leaders to adopt a similar approach.



“I am really happy the Baale is here, already taking ownership of this project. We want it to be a community-driven initiative where people see the college as their own, ensuring its security and encouraging them to enroll their children. That is the kind of partnership we are aiming for," he added.



Mr. Olabimtan commended the contractor for adhering to quality and for promising to deliver some of the buildings well ahead of deadline.



In her remarks, the OGSTEP Project Coordinator, Mrs Mosunmola Owo-Odusi, assured the community that the college would be equipped with world-class infrastructure upon completion.



Represented by the OGSTEP Project Manager for the Skills Development Sector, Mr. Fatai Osunsanya, she highlighted the government's commitment to creating a conducive environment for learning and skill acquisition that aligns with global standards.



Similarly, Engr. Kayode Oseni, Project Engineer for OGSTEP, expressed confidence in the timely delivery of the project, stressing that all efforts were being made to ensure the facility was completed as scheduled.



The Baale of Ajegunle, Chief Musibau Ogunpola, expressed his gratitude to Governor Dapo Abiodun for prioritizing the rehabilitation of the technical college.



He pledged his community’s support in maintaining the facility and ensuring its security to promote its sustainability and impact.

Wednesday, January 22, 2025.

Press Statement (For immediate release)

Subject: Ogun CUPP remains an illegal, irritant body, trades on propaganda, blackmail

The integral principle of natural justice resides in the maxim: "He who calls for equity must come with clean hands".

The case of so-called Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) in Ogun State is pathetic, as it is laughable; it is a confirmation of a group’s agitation spurred by pecuniary gains.

For clarity, CUPP is simply the union of deregistered political parties in Ogun State, who were sent out of the political space by the electoral umpire as a result of their redundancy, unpopularity, inaction and rejection in the political environment.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) considered this group of political jobbers as dangerous parasites in the political climate, hence, their ignominious exit from political environment to entrench sanity in the system.

The recent virtuperations of the illegal association called CUPP in Ogun State about Governor Dapo Abiodun and other senior officials in his government is practically an aberration, considering the antecedents of those individuals that constitute the illegal group.

Without mincing words, the society must be very wary of these individuals who are perpetually jobless as well as covetous; they are serious threat to decency and seriousness in the political arena.

These individuals need to be educated that Prince Dapo Abiodun is beyond a personality that can be blackmailed into submission; thinking the Governor can be emasculated to dole out cash to help their terrible economic conditions.

As far as Ogun State and the Government of Prince Dapo Abiodun is concerned, the State is geometrically on the path of development and sustained growth with remarkable projects of indelible legacies.

On a final note, the crop of elements in CUPP must immediately refrain from their illegal activities and get engaged in productive activities rather than their present nude dance at the market square.

E-signed

Tunde Oladunjoye

Public Secretary, All Progressives Congress (APC),
Ogun State.

Nigerian Navy, Ogun Govt set to flag-off naval base, dockyard

.To strengthen security along the state’s waterways


The Nigerian Navy and the Ogun State Government are set to flag-off the ground breaking ceremony of the Naval Base and Dockyard in Ode-Omi, Ogun Waterside Local Government Area of the state.

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, made this known in his Oke-Mosan office when he received the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Mike Oamen.

According to him, the flagging off is coming at a critical time when the state needs to strengthen its security along its waterways to prevent hoodlums from taking advantage of the porous security situation in that corridor and to protect the recently discovered hydrocarbon minerals (petroleum gas) in the area.

Governor Abiodun added that the citing of the Naval Base and Dockyard in the state would further send a strong signal that the security architecture in Ogun State is further strengthened and safe for more investment.

The Governor further disclosed that the state is looking forward to the groundbreaking ceremony for the Naval Base and Dockyard, adding that it is important to have a Naval presence in the state to ensure that unscrupulous elements do not take advantage of all the economic benefits in the horizon.

Governor Abiodun also said that the access road to the Naval Base and Dockyard would be ready by the end of the week.

"We are looking forward to the ground breaking ceremony. I have with me pictures of works that have been ongoing to allow us access the said property and I am told that sometime by the end of this week, the access road that is being worked on by our Ministry of Works and Infrastructure will be fully accessible

"We are going further not just in making the place accessible but in actually preparing the site for the ground breaking ceremony and it will be a befitting preparation.

"This will allow us to underscore the importance that we attach to the Nigerian Navy and how much we look forward to having their presence here to further complement our law enforcement architecture.

"We are looking forward to this ground breaking; we believe that it will send a strong signal that indeed Ogun State is ready to partner with the Navy and also that we will not be a haven for unscrupulous elements.

"The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure is here, and he has briefed me that sometime by the end of this week, on or before, the access road to Ode-Omi, which is where the site for the Naval Base and Dockyard is located, will be ready, and the site itself will be prepared for groundbreaking.

"With the coming of the Navy it would be a good signal that security architecture in Ogun State is further strengthened and it is a place to continue to look at for investment," he said.

Governor Abiodun who noted that there had been steps to begin the construction of the Olokola Liquefied Natural Gas Project as well as the Ogun State Deep Sea Port project in Ogun Waterside by previous administrations before President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, added that the ground breaking of the Naval Base and Dockyard would further improve the economic base of the state.

The Governor also said his administration has completed the formalities of allocating about 100 hectares of land for the purpose of citing the Naval Base and Dockyard.

He further stated that the state government has waived all fees and charges, which amounted to several billions, and has forwarded the Certificate of Occupancy to the Naval headquarters.

"In view of the prospective activities that we are envisaging in our riverine areas, the former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, gladly obliged us and accepted that it is important for us to have a naval base and a dockyard in Ogun State.

"We proceeded to make different positions available, and at that time, a committee was set up between members of the Nigerian Navy and the state government to identify locations that would be acceptable to the Nigerian Navy.

"Subsequently, a location was identified in Ogun Waterside, and we allocated a parcel of land, 100 hectares, for the purpose of setting up this facility.

"We have since completed the formalities of allocating the parcel of land to the Nigerian Navy.

"We have waived all fees and charges, which amounted to several billions, and have since forwarded the Certificate of Occupancy for that parcel of land to the Naval headquarters," he added.

Prince Abiodun acknowledged the contributions of the former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo who he said played a major role at ensuring the presence of the Nigerian Navy in the state, especiallyTongeji Island.

"Let me put on record and thank the former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, who worked collaboratively with us to ensure that there is some Naval presence in Tongeji. He was very determined to ensure we did that because those people in Tongeji were already wondering if they were just Nigerians in name only.

"Sadly and unfortunately, we do not have a road connection to Tongeji like Benin Republic has but the past Chief of Naval Staff ensured that we have some Naval outpost and some little jetty there in Tongeji and we are very grateful.

"I also want to thank him because it was under his watch that I made a case for the wider presence of the Nigerian Navy here and currently, we have the Secondary School and the Music School."

In his remarks, Rear Admiral Mike Oamen commended Governor Abiodun for the support he has been providing to the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies in the state.

He also noted that it was necessary to assist the Ogun State Government in ensuring security in its maritime space, adding that the Navy is poised to ensure that all coastal states are free from unscrupulous elements by maintaining the presence of Naval personnel in all the waterways and creeks.

"The Ogun State Governor has taken the security of life and property of residents and indigenes of the state very seriously, and the Nigerian Navy is very ready to support this effort.

"We are going to set up a Naval Base where you have your new deep sea port and the gas region and we are hoping that as soon as possible, we will be getting a lot of things done in conjunction with the state government.

"The Naval Base is part of the Chief of Naval Staff's plan, and very soon work will commence there. Be assured that the Navy will be fully on the ground in Ogun State.

"I will assure his Excellency that the Naval headquarters is very disposed to ensuring that the base takes off as soon as possible," he said.

Ogun IPAC Disowns CUPP, Accuses Sholuade of Impersonation

The Chairman of Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Ogun State, Comrade Sanyaolu Adebayo, has disowned the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) in the state, saying it is an alien group in the face of law and has no record with the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC).

Adebayo, also accused the acclaimed Chairman of the group, Otunba Femi Sholuade of criminal Impersonation, adding that he is not the Chairman of African Democratic Congress (ADC) as he claimed.

He explained that IPAC remains the only recognized group of registered political parties in the state and that any group outside IPAC is operating illegally and against the law.

According to him, upon his emergence as the State Chairman of IPAC, he made frantic efforts to ascertain leadership of different political parties from INEC and subsequently discovered that Sholuade is not the Chairman of ADC in the State.

He expressed dismay that an illegal group with Impersonator as the Chairman could come out openly to make allegation of any type in the public space.

Adebayo said:" I read the statement issued by CUPP in profound astonishment, especially the signatory, Otunba Femi Sholuade, who claimed to be the Chairman of the group, first and foremost, there is nothing like such group in the record of INEC, the electoral umpire recognizes only IPAC as coalition of registered political parties.

"Secondly, Otunba Sholuade, who claimed to be the Chairman of the illegal group is a mere Impersonator, he is not the Chairman of any political party in the State, I have painstakingly conducted my findings from INEC and he was not the name sent to me as the Chairman of ADC.

"While I am not disappointed by these dubious tendencies of those individuals claiming to be members of CUPP, my only concern is the Chairman of Peoples Redeption Party(PRP) Mr Ogunsanya Samson who is among them, he is the only authentic Chairman of a political party among them and I wonder how he found himself among those characters".

Gov. Abiodun Mourns Businesswoman and Socialite, Adebisi Edionseri



Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has expressed profound sorrow over the passing of notable businesswoman and socialite, Chief (Mrs) Adebisi Edionseri, describing her death a significant loss to both the state and Nigeria as a whole.

Popularly called 'Cash Madam,' Chief Edionseri passed away on Sunday at the age of 89.

Her legacy as a successful entrepreneur and social figure has left an indelible mark, resonating across generations since the 1970s.

Governor Abiodun, in a statement on Monday, praised Edionser's contributions to Ogun State, highlighting her as a beacon of inspiration and a role model for countless individuals.

He noted that she achieved remarkable success at a young age, demonstrating resilience and ambition that have inspired many in Ogun State and beyond.

"I, on behalf of myself and the people of Ogun State, expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of Alhaja (Chief) Adebisi Edionseri.

"Alhaja Adebisi's contributions to the business community and her vibrant social presence will be reference points for generations yet unbirn. Her influence extended far and wide, making her a cherished figure in the hearts of many.

"As the state mourns the loss of such a formidable personality, the legacy of Chief (Mrs) Adebisi Edionseri will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and social leaders," Prince Abiodun said.

Gov. Abiodun Commiserates with Ondo Governor Over Death of SSG



Ogun State Governor and Chairman of the Southern Governors' Forum, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has commiserated with the Governor and the people of Ondo State over the passing of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Tayo Oluwatuyi.

Oluwatuyi reportedly died on Saturday at a hospital in the state from the injuries he sustained in an accident while traveling from Akure to Ibadan, Oyo State, on December 17.

Abiodun, in a condolence letter he sent to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, described Oluwatuyi's death as a great loss to the government and the state at large as he prayed for the repose of his soul.

He said: "I am deeply saddened by the news of the demise of Mr. Tayo Oluwatuyi, a consummate public servant, thoroughbred professional, and highly conscientious individual whose imprints and strides in and out of the government in Ondo State have been nothing short of phenomenal.

"The news of his death came as a rude shock, but, as in all situations, we recognize that whatever deep affection and love we had for him pales into insignificance when placed side by side with the love of Almighty God, who has chosen this Yuletide period to call him into His bosom, and whose will remains inviolate.

"He was a brilliant administrator and sagacious politician. He was an embodiment of virtues and a strong bridge between the political class and the career officers. His stabilizing role in government will be missed by all.

"On behalf of the Southern States' governors, I want to sympathize with His Excellency, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and the entire good people of Ondo State over the sudden demise of Oluwatuyi.

"I urge my brother, the State Executive Council, and the family and friends of the deceased to take consolation in the fact that the deceased lived a life of service for which he will be remembered for a long time to come.

"May God repose his soul and grant his immediate family the requisite fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss."

Traditional Head Commends Gov. Dapo Abiodun on Speedy Transformation in Ogun

The Baaale Keesan Orile, in Abeokuta North Local Government Area of Ogun State, Waheed Adeyemi Abodunrin, has lauded Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun over his commitment to speedy infrastructural and human capital development.

He also commended the Governor for creating a favourable environment for business to strive, making the State the best in Ease of Doing Business in Nigeria.

Abodunrin, made these known in a media chat with newsmen on Monday while speaking on governance and the role of traditional institution in Nigeria, particularly Ogun State.

The Traditonal Head acknowledged the commitment of the Governor towards changing the old order of neglect and insecurity in the State adding that the firm control of security architecture of Ogun State by the Dapo Abiodun-led administration had substantially reduced incessant activities of cultists and other criminals.

Abodunrin also described the relationship of the Government and traditional institution in the state as exemplary and cordial, which according to him has made community involvement in governance very easy and functional.

"I believe Prince Dapo Abiodun, has proven to be a man with blue blood and a born leader by all standards, he has redefined royalty as a path of nobility and modesty despite the endemic murky politics of Nigeria.

"His style of governance has been exceptional and distinct; for instance, the manner he had revived the hitherto negleted rural roads and that of border communities with Lagos was fantastic and remarkable.

"Governor Dapo Abiodun's compassion for his people is awesome especially on road networks, which made him to go as far as reconstructing Federal Roads; the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway is a testament and that of Benin Ijebu-Ode road among others.

"For a Governor to have built over 600km of roads in less than six years without owing workers a dime is a miracle in this part of the world.

"Another fantastic achievement of the Governor is the manner he has rearranged the security architecture of the State by creating perfect synergy among security agencies working in the State as well as strengthening informal security formation like Amotekun for local intelligence gathering and surveillance.

"Except for occasional incidents, the activities of cultists and other criminal elements in the State has reduced drastically to the barest minimum, which has resulted to booming business environment.

"Every resident of Ogun State is proud to identify with the Gateway State; as it stands, the State accommodates over 6000 manufacturing firms and it is the fastest growing State in terms of Internally Generated Revenue in Nigeria, we should be third or second in the ranking by now except for Lagos and maybe Rivers.

"Sincerely, we are proud to have a Governor like Prince Dapo Abiodun. Have you guys visited the Gateway International Agro-cargo Airport located along Ilisan-Iperu axis, you will be marvelled at the quality of facilities in that Airport, which has been adjudged to have the longest runway in the entire West Africa sub-region and it remains the best in Nigeria.

"My advice to the Governeor for the new year is to sustain this present feat and his tempo of transformation, the traditional institution and other clusters of the State are behind him and really appreciate his relentless pursuit of greatness for our dear state.

" Finally, on behalf of myself and the entire Keesan Orile Land, I wish our amiable Governor a prosperous new year", Abodunrin submitted.

Southern Governors Forum Mourns Abdulwahab Namadi, Hajia Maryam Namadi


Ogun State Governor and Chairman of the Southern Governors Forum (SGF), Prince Dapo Abiodun, has expressed the forum's deepest condolences to
the Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, over the loss of his son, Abdulwahab, in a road accident along the Dutse-Kafin-Hausa Road, on Thursday, just a day after the loss of the Governor's mother, Hajia Maryam Namadi.



In a statement issued on behalf of the Forum and made available to newsmen in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, on Friday, Abiodun said the tragic events coming in quick succession could break anyone's spirit.



He added, however, that the Forum took solace in the life that the deceased lived, urging the bereaved governor to take solace in the fact that his loved ones are in the bosom of Allah.



He said: "I and members of the Southern Governors Forum can hardly find the words to describe the devastating news of the loss of our brother and Governor of Jigawa State, H.E Umar Namadi’s son, Abdulwahab, in a road accident, just a day after the death of his very dear mother, Alhaja Maryam Namadi. Abdulwahab Umar Namadi, a young man full of life, died in a motor accident along the Dutse-Kafin-Hausa Road, on Thursday.




"No doubt, these extremely tragic events, coming in quick succession, and at a period of the Yuletide festivities when His Excellency and his loved ones were no doubt looking forward to the New Year with joy and excitement, can break anyone’s spirit. By a cruel twist of fate, Abdulwahab, who was mourning the loss of his dear grandmother, lost his life in a road accident.


"We are completely heartbroken. We commiserate with the Governor and people of Jigawa State and pray for the repose of the souls of these very dear loved ones.



"Deep and extremely painful as these tragic events are, we take consolation in the life that our dear Mama and our dear Abdulwahab lived. They did their best to make a difference in the lives of people, and will be sorely missed.


"May the Almighty Allah, the Most Merciful and the Most Benevolent grant them Aljanat Firdaus. May He comfort His Excellency and members of the Namadi family at this terrible hour of trial.



"On behalf of my brothers in the Southern Governors Forum, I offer our deepest condolences to His Excellency and pray that he will have the fortitude to bear these sad events knowing that his loved ones are in the bosom of Allah."

Abiodun Commissions Newly Renovated Ogun State Assembly Complex after 45yrs

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has again broken age-long jinx by rehabilitating the 45-year old Ogun State House of Assembly, built by the administration of the late Chief Bisi Onabanjo.

He commissioned the newly renovated Assembly Complex on Wednesday before presenting the N1.054trn before the state House of Assembly.

Abiodun, while commissioning the Complex, noted that the project was the fulfillment of a promise he made last year during the presentation of the 2024 appropriation bill where he promised that the complex would wear a new look when he comes to present the 2025 appropriation bill.

"This time last year, we were here following which on assumption of office of the new Speaker and the new assembly, we made a commitment and that commitment was to ensure that we all come back this year and present our budget to the House by ensuring that this Assembly Complex that was built in 1979, about 45 years ago that had practically begin to fall apart gets a new look.

"Our commitment was that we will not come back here this year and present our budget in the same assembly complex it was last year.

"We have a commitment that we will reconstruct, rehabilitate this complex so as to make it more conducive for our lawmakers," he said.

The structure, which was practically fallen apart as a result of the neglect it had suffered over the years is now wearing a new look as the complex can now boast of the availability of water.

Aside the complex wearing a new look, all the offices for members are now ensuite as members now have the liberty of good rest rooms as against the past when all members had to use just a single toilet.

While appreciating the governor for embarking on the renovation of the Assembly Complex, the Speake, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide lauded the cordial relationship between the Executive and the Legislature, assuring that Assembly members would work towards the speedy passage of the budget.

Abiodun Presents N1.054trn Appropriation Bill to Ogun State House of Assembly

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has presented a total of N1,054,542,020,147.47 to the State House of Assembly as the State's proposed budget for 2025.

Speaking at the Assembly's Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun said the budget, tagged "Budget of Hope and Prosperity," is made up of N453.56 billion as recurrent expenditure and N600.98 billion as capital expenditures.

Giving highlights of the appropriation, the governor said N120.1 billion would go for personnel costs, N37.49 billion for consolidated revenue cost, public debt charges would gulp N76.07 billion, while N219.86 billion would be spent on overhead costs.

On some of the key physical capital projects that would be executed in the 2025 budget, Abiodun listed the renovation of general and state hospitals and the purchase of laboratory and medical equipment across the state, revitalization of 80 primary health centers, and procurement of laboratory and medical equipment across all primary health facilities in the state, as well as the construction of roads across the state.

Other projects include the procurement and energizing of transformers, construction of fire stations across the state, upgrading of rural roads across the state, extension of the Redline Metro Rail from Agbado to Kajola, Blueline Metro Rail from Okokomaiko-Agbara/Lusada, and the Purpleline Metro Rail line.

He said the government would also embark on the construction of the Ogun Lodge Government House in Abuja, rehabilitate 150 km of feeder roads across the state, construct the OGIRS Revenue House, and a modern Court of Appeal in the state.

On the funding of the 2025 budget, Governor Abiodun said an estimated N120.97 billion would come from the State Internal Revenue Service, N193.85 billion from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), totaling N314.82 billion. Statutory allocations from the Federal Government, including Value Added Tax, are projected at N228.06 billion, while capital receipts comprising internal and external loans as well as grants and aids are estimated at N472.66 billion.

Giving a sectoral rundown of the budget, the governor said education would gulp N117.83 billion (17%), health N134.538 billion (13%), housing and community development N66.382 billion (6%), agriculture and industry N65.387 billion (6%), infrastructure N284.456 billion (27%), recreation, culture, and religion N25.27 billion (2%), social protection N39.836 billion (4%), general public service - executive organ N46.863 billion (4%), general public service - (financial & fiscal affairs) N42.284 billion.

He said: "We will continue to accord priority attention to the completion of ongoing projects across the ISEYA development pillars; projects with revenue potentials; projects that enhance employment generation; projects consistent with priorities articulated in the State Economic Development Plan & Strategy 2021 – 2025.

"Projects that align with the seven thematic areas contained in the Medium-Term National Development Plan 2021-2025, namely: Economic Growth and Development; Infrastructure; Public Administration (Governance, Security, and International Relations); Human Capital Development; Social Development; Regional Development; Plan Implementation, Communication, Financing, Monitoring, and Evaluation," the governor noted.

Giving a review of the 2024 budget, Governor Abiodun said the state had achieved 79% of its pro-rated revenue target and 56% of its pro-rated expenditure target as of September 30, emphasizing that the performance over the past few years underscores the state's fiscal reliability.

"Our internally generated revenue capacity remains commendable among sub-national entities. We will continue to leverage existing statutes to enhance revenue transparency, broaden the base, and strengthen the state's finances without imposing additional burdens on residents," the governor assured.

In his opening remarks, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, spoke on the need to grant autonomy to the legislature, increase the running cost, provision of official vehicles for the Clerk and other officers, as well as funds for the execution of constituency projects.

He said the Assembly in the last year considered 14 bills, of which nine were passed, while 32 motions were passed into resolutions, adding that the Assembly also ensured that funds meant for projects were judiciously used by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of government through oversight functions.

Alpha-Beta Consulting LLP Denies Involvement in Federal Tax Reform Bills

Alpha-Beta Consulting LLP, has strongly refuted the recent claims suggesting an involvement of the firm in the Federal Government's proposed Tax Reform Bills currently under review by the National Assembly, describing it as baseless and unfounded, with the evil intent of misleading the general public.

Speaking on the matter, Barrister Akinsanya Doherty, Managing Director of Alpha-Beta Consulting LLP made this known in a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday.

The statement read", As a Managing Director of Alpha-Beta Consulting LLP, I categorically affirm that I have neither met nor had any discussions, dealings, or involvement with Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Tax Policy and Fiscal Reform Committee, despite our shared profession.

"Furthermore, neither I nor the firm has made any input into the Federal Government’s tax reform bills. These allegations are false and should be dismissed outrightly".

It would be recalled that the statement was in tandem with Mr. Taiwo Oyedele’s recent clarification during the Town Hall Meeting on the Tax Reform Bills, organized by Channels Television, where Mr. Oyedele explicitly denied plans to outsource federal tax collection to any consulting firm, including Alpha-Beta Consulting LLP.

He, however, emphasized that the reforms were designed to streamline tax administration without reliance on external consultants for its collection.

Meanwhile, the Head of Corporate Communications for the organisation, Kingsley Esonu, has declared that", Alpha-Beta Consulting LLP remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering technology-driven innovative solutions that enhance revenue administration and accountability. The company takes pride in its integrity, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to serving its clients ".