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Ogun LG polls: My NNPP party has all it takes to win

The Chairmanship Candidate of the New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) in Abeokuta North Local Government, Hon. (Engr.) Olashile Yusuf has assured the people of the local government that his party has everything to win the election coming up on Saturday July 24, 2021.

The candidate, who gave this assurance earlier on during his party's rouding-off Campaign Rally at Ori-Omi, Ita Iyalode, Sokori, Abeokuta, hinted that they are indeed ready to give the ruling party a run for their money at the polls.

According to him, the decision of the NNPP to focus their attention on youth candidacy has paid-off so far going by their wide acceptance by the people in most Wards within the State and the Local Government in particular.

During an interview with the press, the Vice Chairmanship candidate of the party, Hon. Olujobi Ezekiel Fayoyin, reiterated that the party's grassroots penetrarion, as well as quality representation and transparency within the local government gave it the edge needed to beat other parties in the coming Council election.

Fayoyin called on all youths of the State and particularly those in Abeokuta North who are tired of the old order and antics of the ruling party and the others to come out enmass and vote for the NNPP on Saturday, adding that their votes is their weapon to turn their fortunes around within their various Wards.

The State Chairman of the Party, Hon. Posi Ogini who spoke with the Press during the rally also praised the people for their acceptance of the party and its candidates across the state calling on electorates to show their rejection of the present crops of ineffective politicians by voting emphatically for the NNPP.

"We cannot continue to do things the same way and expect a different result," he said, adding that "as electorates, you each have the power to make meaningful change within your Wards and Polling Unit by rejecting the present order of things within our system by voting for these fresh youths which our party's candidates represent."

In their own separate messages to electorates during the rally, the duo of Chief Olaoye Okeowo and Alhaji Abiodun Aderounmu, Senatorial and Local Chairmen of the party respectively presented the Chairman and his Vice to the people, appealing for massive votes for them.

They further insisted that now more than ever, the Youths need to speak with one voice, with an emphatic voice loud enough to be heard by voting enmass for the NNPP candidates.

Ogun Councillorship Aspirants Withdraw Suits Against, APC, OGSIEC



Two Ogun councillorship aspirants; Osularu Olabanjo Muyiwa and Olalekan Olaleye Babatunde from Ward five and three respectively in Iperu, Ikenne local government have withdrawn the suits filed against the All Progressives Congress (APC) Ogun State as well as Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) over allegations bordering on substitution of their names for the local governments elections slated for this Saturday.

Their decision to withdraw the law suit filed before the State High Court, Sagamu was said to have been consequent upon the intervention of the governor of the state, Prince Dapo Abiodun who incidentally is also from Iperu Remo, the hometown of the two Councillorship aspirants.

Osularu Olabanjo Muyiwa had told the court that after winning the councillorship primaries of the ruling party for Ward five, Iperu Remo, he was surprised to note that when the list of councillorship candidates for the forthcoming local government was released on June 24, his name had been substituted for one Hon Efuwape Olaitan Muhammed, the current Vice Chairman, Caretaker Committee of Ikenne local government who never participated in the primaries.

Relying on relevant sections of the APC 2014 constitution as amended as well as 2010 Electoral Acts as amended, Osularu Olabanjo Muyiwa is therefore through the law firms of Fazaz Segun Daud and Co and Hussein Omikunle and Co asking the State High Court to quash this injustice and reinstate him as the APC councillorship candidate for Iperu Ward five during this Saturday local government elections.

Olalekan Olaleye Babatunde in a separate suit before same Sagamu High Court had also explained how his name after winning the councillorship primaries for Iperu Ward three was substituted for one Hon Lekan Osinowo whom he defeated by 11 votes urging the court to help look into this seemingly electoral fraud.

However, speaking with our Correspondent on Wednesday, Osularu and Olalekan said they decided to withdraw the court case against the party due to what they termed as the fatherly intervention of the governor of the state, Prince Dapo Abiodun as well as the need to preserve further the unity of the party as it focusses on achieving 100% victory in Saturday local government elections.

A party chieftain from the local government, Mr Armstrong 'Tope Akintunde also told our Correspondent that the APC members in the local government are very happy that the two councillorship aspirants have decided to withdraw their suits against the ruling party after the "highly appreciated intervention of the governor'' adding that "this is no doubt another boost to our desire to continue to strengthen the party such that this Saturday local government elections and Gov Abiodun return to office in 2023 will be a walk over".

It would be recalled that Gov Abiodun has said it repeatedly during the ongoing APC campaign for the forthcoming local government elections that he would ensure that all that contested during the primaries but lost out would be adequately compensated.


END

Eid-el-Kabir: Aerofield boss, Akintunde greets Muslim faithfuls


The All Progressives Congress chieftain in Ogun State, Mr Armstrong'Tope Akintunde who doubles as the Chief Executive Officer of Aerofield Homes has sent his felicitations to all the Muslims faithfuls as they joyfully celebrate this year Eid-el-Kabir.

In his message to the Muslims all over the state and the country as whole, Akintunde urged them to use the joyous occasion of the Eid-el-Kabir to supplicate for further growth and prosperity of the country coupled with the reign of peace in every nook and crannies of our dear nation.

The Iperu Remo born politician also specially appealed to the Muslims in the state to use this special occasion to pray for the government of Gov Dapo Abiodun that he said had in the last two years showed unparalleled commitment to making life very comfortable for the residents of the state.

Akintunde said "here comes another special season of the year when Muslims worldwide celebrates the annual Eid-del-Kabir which teaches sacrifice and obedience to the injunctions of the Almighty Allah.

"I rejoice with all the Muslim faithfuls on this joyous occasion and I urge them to use this period to pray for further prosperity and peace of our dear nation. I equally urge them to use this time to pray for our hardworking governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun who had shown great love to the people of the state since assuming office in May 2019.

"As a nation that is abundantly blessed though, still grappling with some challenges, in the spirit of the season I urge all, both the leaders and the led to be ready to sacrifice a bit more towards achieving a Nigeria of our dream that could rub shoulders with other countries around the world. May the Almighty Allah accept all our acts of worship and preserve us to celebrate many more Eid-del-Kabir in sound health".

Leading quick loan apps helping access to credit



Access to credit has remained a major issue, but increasing tech-driven loan apps are opening up opportunities for finances, Tofunmi Sanusi reports.



The impact of COVID-19 on the economy, including consumer lending, cannot be overstated. Various measures by the government to curtail the spread and transmission of the deadly virus, including lockdowns, resulted in contraction of the economy, rising unemployment and decreasing disposable incomes.

The uncertainty in the economy also impacted the financial services sector. Lending institutions were initially cautious about committing to new loan facilities. A number of banks reportedly failed to meet the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN’s) 65 per cent loan-to-deposit ratio.

Increasing access to credit facilities for businesses and individuals could, therefore, be a needed stimulus to increase economic activities in Nigeria.

This, analysts said, would bolster efforts towards the recovery of the economy in the short-to-medium terms.

To underscore this, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Godwin Emefiele, reported that banks increased their total loans to the economy by N3.3 trillion in June, last year. According to the monetary policy document released by the regulator, banks’ total gross credit rose from N15.56 trillion in May to N18.9 trillion as at end of June, last year.

In conformity with the new realities occasioned by the pandemic, strategies that promote contactless activities, have continued to evolve within the financial services sector.
Banks, especially, rank high among those leveraging advanced technology and innovations to increase access to credits; as well as drive financial inclusion by expanding the frontiers of digital banking platforms and
channels.

Euromonitor International’s Consumer Lending in Nigeria report establishes that the size and structure of the market for ATM cards, smart cards, credit cards, debit cards, charge cards, pre-paid cards and store cards have continued to grow in leaps and bounds.

Easy and fast-loan application or credit processing is one exciting lifestyle that is gaining momentum in Nigeria. A cursory look at the credit market throws up the following easily accessible and visible five best quick loan apps, according to Abimbola Yewande, a Lagos-based credit analysts, who listed VULTe by Polaris Bank, Carbon, PalmCredit, Branch and Renmoney, among the leading quick-loan apps.


VULTe
Polaris Bank recently launched its 100 per cent self-service digital solution, VULTe, as a stimulus for increasing accessibility to quality
banking services, as well as lowering the barriers for accessing credits up to N5 million, for both customers and non-customers of the bank.

VULTe is a full digital bank that provides individuals with fast, convenient and reliable solutions to their banking needs. Some of its unique features include QR payments, end-to-end account opening and debit card request
and issuance and activation, without the customers leaving the comfort of their homes, offices or wherever they may be.

The platform does not just cater to Polaris Bank customers alone; as non-customers of the bank can also download and enjoy banking services on VULTe as well.

Another key feature is VULTe’s API Banking, which allows merchants/businesses integrate VULTe with other business critical systems, enabling a portfolio of services, including risk assessment, bank statement requests, lien accounts, and direct debits.

Much more than an app, Polaris Bank’s Chief Digital Officer, Dele Adeyinka, explained that VULTe’s instant loan feature is a very unique
innovation with which the bank is deepening Nigeria’s loan market, among several other functions and benefits hard to get elsewhere.

”VULTe allows a customer and non-customer of Polaris Bank to request and get instant loans within two minutes right in the palm of their hands, using your smartphone,” Adeyinka said.

To be eligible to use VULTe, a prospect/customer have to be 18 years or
older. The platform is also open to SMEs and corporate firms, and can be found and downloaded on the Google Play and Apple store.




Carbon
Carbon requires applicants to provide their BVN to run a check on their credit, before loan request can be approved. Individuals can access up to N1 million.

Though the process is seamless with no paperwork, guarantors or collateral needed, Carbon, however, provides individuals with cash back on interest paid when loans are paid back on time.

The platform also allows individuals pay bills, invest and receive credit reports across financial institutions.




PalmCredit
Individuals in Nigeria can get loans from PalmCredit without providing collateral. PalmCredit offers low-interest rates on its loans and thus making it an attractive and popular money lending platform in Nigeria.

It is only available to individuals 18 years and above, and loan applicants can borrow as little as N2,000 and as much as N100,000.

To qualify and receive a loan, customers have to follow three easy steps of registering a PalmCredit account, getting approved, and then, receive payment to their account. Each time you repay a loan, your loan limit
increases to the N100,000 mark.





Branch
Branch is one of the best loan apps in Nigeria and unlike its competitors, it also functions in other countries like Kenya, Mexico, and India.

Its major USP is that, as customers build credit with Branch, so does their loan limit. All you have to do, is apply through the app and get approved for their loan within 24 hours.

Branch does not charge any fees.
Customers are free to use the credit they get from the platform for anything they prefer, as no official will ask them the purpose for which
the loan is requested.



Renmoney
Renmoney is a very popular loan platform that supports micro, small and medium businesses financially.

To qualify for a loan, a customer have to be between 22 and 59, have a verifiable source of income, and live or work in cities where Renmoney operates.

Individuals can borrow up to N6 million for up to 24 months. To be approved for a loan, a customer’s bank statement must prove that the loan could be repaid within the repayment period.

According to Euromonitor, a positive outlook for Nigeria’s economy in terms of recovering from recession induced by COVID-19, has been predicted from this year. And this can set the stage for increase in demand for consumer lending.

The willingness of lenders to increase opportunities for individuals and businesses to access credits, therefore,
will be of utmost importance.





https://thenationonlineng.net/leading-quick-loan-apps-helping-access-to-credit/

Ogun NANS faction sheaths sword as body warns against political interference


The Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Ogun Joint Campus Committee (JJC), Comrade Damilola Kehinde Simeon has accused politicians of meddling in the affairs of student unionism in the State.

To this end, Simeon warned politicians to desist from using divide and rule tactics and trying to divide the Nigeria students there by causing havoc among the students.

Simeon gave the warning while speaking to journalists in Abeokuta yesterday, shortly after a reconciliation meeting between a faction of NANS, led by Adeyemi Samson and the members of the executive committee of NANS, Ogun Joint Campus Committee (JJC), led by Comrade Damilola Kehinde at the Ogun State Police Command headquarters in Eleweran. Abeokuta on Friday.

The NANS Chairman stressed that the reconciliation meeting has put an end to the crisis rocking the State chapter of NANS.

It would be recalled that, Samson was on Thursday allegedly arrested and handed over to the police in Ago-Iwoye while parading himself as the Chairman of NANS in Ogun State during Governor Dapo Abiodun's visit to Ijebu North Local government area of the State.

Following his arrest, the reconciliation meeting was held between members of Samson and Simeon's teams where the State Director of the Department of the State Security Service (DSS) and the State Commissioner of Police, Edward Ajogun prevailed on the students to stealth their swords and embrace peace.

Speaking to journalists, shortly after the meeting, Simeon described the reconciliation as "the dawn of a new day after a heavy storm."

Simeon who was flanked by the Students' Union Government (SUG) President of the Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), .....called on every student in the State to come together and work for the development of education in the State.

The NANS Chairman insisted that NANS remains one united indivisible family under his leadership.

He appealed to students not to allow any politician use them as tools to cause mayhem and disrupt the peace of the State.

Simeon also warned politicians to desist from using students as political thugs to actualise their selfish interests.

"After every heavy storm comes the cool of the new dawn, after every titanic struggle, I can say that we have gotten the kind of result that ought to be gotten and that at the end of the day I am using this medium that NANS Ogun JCC remain one under my humble watch.

"I want to state that there is no division among Nigeria students in the State.

"Today (Friday) will have been called together to the Police headquarters and the issue have been resolved. Adeyemi Samson is a Nigerian student in the State and he is one of us, we are together and every comrade that are here and that are not here as far as you are a student in the Gateway State I am using this medium to call on everyone that we will run an open door policy and we would bring good things to the table of every student and see to the welfarism thereby paving way for development within and outside the student constituency.

"Every Nigerian student in the Gateway State should come together and work collectively towards emancipating ourselves from the shackles of politicians.

"We should come together and work towards improving our educational standard in the Gateway State and we stand for justice and welfarism of every Nigerian student across the Gateway State.

"Every politician within or outside the State should please steer clear the students struggle and desist from using their divide and rule tactics and trying to divide the Nigeria students there by causing havoc among the students."

Doctors, Nurses suspend strike at FMC Abeokuta

Normal medical and health care services have resumed at the Federal Medical Centre at Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, Ogun State following the suspension of an indefinite strike action declared by the centre's Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) and the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM)

The industrial action was to protest
the increasing cases of assault on the hospital health care givers by relations of patients.

A stayemement by the hospitals Public Relations Officer, Mr. Segun Orisajo, in furtherance to the series of meetings, the hospital management again on Thursday engaged the executives of the two unions where the management unfolded series of steps it had taken to forestall a repeat of the ugly incidents.

Apparently in satisfaction with the management's explanation and visible actions taken so far, the two unions at their congresses on Friday resolved to suspend the industrial action.

Reacting, the Acting Medical Director, Dr. Fidelis Ojeblenu hailed the unions' decision to resume duties, an action which he believed will facilitate further actions on the implementation of their demands.

He sympathized with the patients and users of the hospital for any inconveniences they might have encountered during the industrial action.

The Acting Medical Director however reiterated his appeal to the public to always refrain from acts of aggression against the hospital health workers.

He said the management is committed at all times to it's mandate of provision of quality healthcare services to the general public.

AMORAN celebrates birthday of Gov. Abiodun's wife


The Articulated Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria (AMORAN) heartily celebrates the first lady of Ogun state, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun on the event of her birthday.

Our Union honours the first lady as a great woman of substance whose remarkable leadership and efforts in humanitarian activities has not gone unnoticed.

She has so far endeared herself to the people of Ogun State through her people-first approach. More importantly, she has been ever supportive to our Governor, HE Prince Dapo Abiodun and that is evidenced in the laudable feats achieved in the space of two years under the current administration.

As our first lady celebrates today, it is our most sincere prayers that she has many more years to keep up the good work. May her proceeds of victory surpass the capacity of her barn.

Happy Birthday!


E-Signed:
Otunba Nurudeen Aina Alowonle
Chairman,
AMORAN, Ogun State.

Sholebo hails Osoba's exemplary leadership quality at 82

The Chairman of the Rider and Owners of Motorcycle Organisation (ROMO), Ogun State, Alhaji Razaq Sotayo, popularly known as "Sholebo has hailed the exemplary leadership quality of the former governor of the state and a national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Olusegun Osoba as he clocked the age of 82.

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, yesterday extolled the virtues of the former governor of the state and a national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Olusegun Osoba, describing him as a model in exemplary leadership and service to fatherland.

Sholebo in a statement described Chief Osoba as an astute politician and a father of all.

Sholebo also commended Osoba's patriotic exploits and unprecedented achievements in Ogun state and more importantly his commitment to a united, prosperous and peaceful Nigeria.

Sholebo noted that the people of Ogun state will forever remember Chief Osoba's successes in politics and governance "which will continue to be reference points for other political leaders leaders in the country.

Ogun Customs generates N800m in six months


The Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun 1 Area Command, says it made several seizures, with cumulative duty paid value of more than N800 million, in the first half of 2021.

The command also generated over N15 million
during the period under review.

Speaking at a media briefing on Thursday in Idiroko, the command's Controller, Peter Kolo, disclosed that his officers and men were able to intercept 34,540 bags of foreign parboiled rice of 50kg each (an equivalent of 58 trailer loads).

The controller argued that if such quantity of rice is allowed into the Nigerian market, it will put the Federal Government Rice Policy into jeopardy.

He said, "the cumulative duty paid value (DPV) for all the above seizures amounted to Eight Hundred and Thirty Four Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty Five Thousand, Two Hundred and Seventy Three Naira and Zero Kobo (#834,765,273.00)".

Kolo reiterated that Federal Government of Nigeria’s directive on border closure is still subsisting, hence, there is no revenue generated from imports activities.

He maintained that the command will not give room for smuggling to thrive.

"I wish to reiterate that our intelligence network in the Command is still very active as we deployed intelligence in virtually all our operations, which has yielded greater successes and continuously being recorded on daily basis.

"Let me once again warn criminal elements in the state that in whichever way and methods you plan your smuggling activities, we shall definitely uncover it, make arrest and inflict gross financial injury on such perpetuators.

"It suffice to say that the continuous attacks on Customs and other security operatives in the state by some criminal elements will not deter us from sustaining the onslaught on their smuggling activities.

"We are determined more than ever before to carry out this battle to its logical conclusion"


END

Ogun LG poll: APC thugs attack, break court bailiff's head



There was pandemonium on Tuesday in Iperu-Remo, Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State, which is home town of Governor Dapo Abiodun, as suspected thugs attacked and brutally stabbed a court bailiff, Mr. Adetayo Odunlami, on his head.

The thugs allegedly loyal to the Vice Chairman of Ikenne Local Government, Hon. Efuwape Olaitan, were said to have attacked the bailiff when he attempted to serve court processes on their principal.

The hoodlums who allegedly used axe, cudgel, charms and bottles to inflict injuries on their target, also reportedly dispossessed him of undisclosed amount of money, mobile phone, identity card and automated teller machine (ATM) card, among other valuable items.

It was gathered that the incident was fallout of the controversy trailing the All Progressives Congress (APC) nomination of councillorship candidate for the July 24 Local Government elections in the state and wrongful substitution for Ward 5, Iperu-Remo in Ikenne Local Government.

Our correspondent learnt that Odunlami, who is serving in the Ogun State High Court, Sagamu Division, had gone to carry out the order of Justice T. A. Okunsokan to serve the originating process and hearing notice on Hon. Efuwape in the suit filed by one Mr. Osularu Muyiwa, who claimed his name was wrongly substituted after the APC primaries.

Efuwape, the APC and Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) were joined as first, second and third respondents respectively in the suit number HCS/286/21.

But for mother luck, the bailiff might have been killed during the violent attack on Tuesday.

Narrating his ordeal to reporters, Odunlami said he went to serve the court processes on the first respondent (Efuwape) without police escorts.

The bailiff disclosed that after he had introduced himself to the Council Vice Chairman, some thugs who were with him (Efuwape) swooped on him and beat him mercilessly.

"I went there to serve court process. After I had identified myself, he (Efuwape) said 'so you are the one they sent? I will show you today!' In the process, his boys attacked me and stole my ATM, identity card, the money in my pocket and my mobile phone. They attacked me with axe, bottle *Juju* and other dangerous objects. In fact, they wanted to kill *me* but thank God, I escaped," he told reporters.

The visibly shaken bailiff said he never envisaged such an attack could be launched against him in the cause of carrying out his legitimate official assignment.

Our correspondent reliably gathered that the matter had been reported to Iperu Police Station as of the time of filing this report.

It will be recalled that the APC candidates nomination for the forthcoming local government elections took another dimension when Osularu dragged Efuwape to court over allegations of wrongful substitution of name.

The originating court summons dated July 8, 2021 and filed on behalf of Osularu by his counsel was brought before the court in pursuant to Section 36 of 1999 Constitution, Section 87 (9) of Electoral Acts 2010 as amended, Articles 7, 19 and 21 of APC Constitution and paragraph 3, 4A (5) and 6 of the APC Electoral Guidelines 2014 and Order 3, Rules 8 and 9 of Ogun State High Court.

In an affidavit he deposed to, Osularu had claimed to have won the APC councillorship primaries for Ward 5, Iperu Remo held on May 20, 2021 but his name was allegedly substituted for Efuwape, who is currently the Vice Chairman, Caretaker Committee of the local government.

The applicant, therefore, prayed the court to grant an order nullifying the name of Hon Efuwape as the APC councilorship candidate for Ward 5, Iperu Remo since his selection was not in tune with section 87 (9) of Electoral Acts 2010 as amended as well as APC constitution and election guidelines.

He also asked the court to order the APC (second respondent) to forward his name to the OGSIEC (third respondent) while the OGSIEC must accept, list, publicize and print his name on the ballot paper as the APC councillorship candidate for Ward 5, Iperu-Remo in the coming local government elections.

The applicant further urged the court to grant an order of perpetual injunction restraining Efuwape from parading himself as the APC standard bearer for Ward 5 in the local government elections.

Meanwhile, the court yesterday granted an Ex-parte Order moved by Daud Fazaz Segun, the counsel to the applicant, directing that the case will be heard during vacation considering its urgency.

The court, presided over by Justice Okansanwo further ordered that hearing notice be served on parties to the matter.


END

Adekola, aide of FCMB founder, Subomi Balogun installed Mogaji Olubadan



It was a day of joy, accompanied with so much dancing and drumming as the Olubadan of Ibadan land,
Oba Saliu Adetunji Aje Ogungunniso 1, on Monday crowned and blessed Mogaji Adetoyese Adekola who recently emerged as Mogaji Bada Akinsanya Akiole ruling house of Ode Aje Ibadan, Oyo State.


The ceremony held at the Olubadan palace, Popo Yemoja, Ibadan, Oyo State had in attendance families and friends of the new Mogaji, Chief Adetoyese Adekola who came from far and near to share in the joy of the day with the new Chief.

Presenting Chief Adekola to the family, the Baale, Alhaji Sakariyawu Mustapha Ayokunle, the Bada-Efon of Ode-Aje, Ibadan while showering encomiums on the newly installed Mogaji described him as being highly resourceful and lover of anything that will move forward his family and Ibadan land as a whole.

Chief Sakariyawu Mustapha who could not contain his joy over the long over due installation of Mogaji Adetoyese Adekola disclosed that, despite the fact that this joyful gathering ought to have come earlier than this, the family was still grateful to God that a new Mogaji of the family who has all it takes to turn things around for good for the family has eventually been picked.

He said "We are sending the new Mogaji, Chief Adetoyese Adekola to the whole Ibadanland to bring more honour to the family of Bada-Akiole ruling house.
Mogaji is higher than chieftaincy title in the history of Yorubaland, the current Olubadan was Mogaji before his installation as Olubadan

"I therefore appeal to our family members to rally support for our new Mogaji who I know has all it takes to lift higher the lofty heritage of our family. I pray for long life and sound health for him and it is my prayer that his reign will usher in greater peace and prosperity for the family and Ibadan land as a whole'.

Making his short remark at occasion, the newly installed Mogaji, Chief Adetoyese Adekola applauded his family members far and near for the trust and confidence reposed in him which culminated into his being chosen as the Mogaji of Bada Akiole ruling house, Ibadan.

Chief Adekola said that he was not unmindful of the worth of honour done him by the family and would therefore ensure that he remained committed to pursuing ideals and values that would make his family and Ibadan land greater.

Dignitaries in attendance were Chief Sule Alao, Balogun, Iyalode, Chief Kayode Daisi, the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan, Mr. Adeola Oloko, Baale of Gbada Efon Kingdom and Balogun of Bada Efon Kingdom.

Others are Mogaji Anisere, Kabiyesi Abiodun Daisi, Alhaji Ismaila Oyetunde, Chairman Ona Ara local government, Iyalode of Gbada Efon Kingdom, Alhaja Bilikisu Osundeyi Arinola, Mrs Funmillayo Alao, Alhaji Ganiyu Oyetunde, Dr Mudasiru Adebayo Arinola, Taofeek Alao, Mrs. Falilatu Gbadamosi, Mrs Sakirat Ola Dada, the Iyalaje of Sagamu among other well wishers.



END

Aspirant sues OGSIEC, two others over Ogun LG polls


Barely two weeks to Ogun State local government elections slated for Saturday July 24, a councilorship aspirant, Mr Osularu Olabanjo Muyiwa has dragged the Vice Chairman, Caretaker Committee of Ikenne local government, Hon Efuwape Olaitan Muhammed, his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) to Sagamu High Court over allegations of substitution of name.

The originating court summons dated July 8 and filled on behalf of Osularu Olabanjo Muyiwa by the law firms of Fazaz Segun Daud and Co and Hussein Omikunle and Co was said to have been brought before the court in pursuant to section 36 of 1999 constitution, section 87 (9) of Electoral Acts 2010 as amended, Articles 7, 19 and 21 of APC constitution and paragraph 3, 4A (5) and 6 of the APC electoral guidelines 2014 and order 3, rules 8 and 9 of Ogun State High Court.

Osularu in the affidavit deposed to had claimed to have won the APC councilorship primaries for Ward 5, Iperu Remo held on May 20, 2021 but his name had allegedly been substituted for the first respondent, Hon Efuwape Olaitan Muhammed serving currently as the Vice Chairman, Caretaker Committee of the local government.

Osularu, in the court summon which compelled the three respondents to appear before the court within seven days after being served is urging the court to determine among other things whether it was lawful açcording to section 87 (9) of the Electoral Acts 2010 as amended and APC constitution and election guidelines, his name should have been substituted for that of Hon Efuwape as the APC councilorship candidate for Ward 5, Iperu Remo in the coming local government elections.

The applicant has equally urged the court to give an order nullifying the name of Hon Efuwape as the APC councilorship candidate for Ward 5, Iperu Remo since his selection was not in tune with section 87 (9) of Electoral Acts 2010 as amended as well as APC constitution and election guidelines.

Osularu in the same vein pleaded with the court to order the second respondent, APC to forward his name to the 3rd respondent, OGSIEC while the 3rd respondent must accept, list, publicize and print his name on the ballot paper as the APC councilorship candidate for Ward 5, Iperu Remo in the coming local government elections.

The applicant also urged the court to give an order of perpetual injunction restraining Efuwape from parading himself as the standard bearer of APC for Ward 5 in the coming local government elections while the party and OGSIEC must also henceforth stop dealing with him as far as this subject matter is concerned.

Osularu equally demanded that if at the date the court gives its judgement on this lawsuit, the 2021 Ogun State local government elections had been conducted and the first respondent had won as the APC councilorship candidate for Ward 5 Iperu Remo, the third respondent, OGSIEC must withdraw the certificate of return issued and award same to Osularu as the duly elected councilor for Ward 5, Iperu Remo.


END

FMC Doctors, Nurses suspend night duty over assault by patients' relatives

Doctors and Nurses at the Federal Medical Centre, Idi-Aba, Abeokut, Ogun State, have resolved to suspend night duties to protest alleged incessant physical assault on their colleagues by relatives of some patients.

A notice to that effect was served the Management by the hospital’s branches of Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) and National Association of Nurses and Midwives(NANNM) on Wednesday 7th July 2021 and the action was to last initial three days.

The step was in reaction to the alleged assault on a Medical Officer by relatives of a patient on the night of Tuesday 6th July, 2021.

According to their letters of protest, the unions argued that the male doctor in the course of duty was “ battered by the patient relatives, sustaining injury to the frontal and temporal region of the head and barely escaped being lynched by whiskers.”

The latest attack, according to the unions was “one too many cases of physical assault in the last few months in the Centre”.

The Tuesday’s assault was perpetrated by the relatives of a 70 year old female patient diagnosed over two years ago for hypertension and diabetes and was admitted into this hospital on Friday 25th June, 2021 following her referral from a private hospital.

On presentation at the Accident and Emergency, her condition was poor with noticeable signs of breathlessness, loss of consciousness and acute kidney injury.

After showing signs of improvement at the Accident and Emergency department, she was subsequently transferred to the Female Medical ward for further medical attention.

However, on the night of 6th July , 2021, the patient suddenly developed congestion cardiac failure and passed on while efforts were being made to revive her.

Before she passed on, she had consumed six giant cylinders of oxygen.

Infuriated by the news of the death of the patient, the relatives, who were around the hospital ward, threw caution into the winds and went straight for the patient’s Doctor and assaulted and inflicted serious injuries on him before he was rescued by his colleagues.

Reacting at an emergency management committee meeting, the Acting Medical Director at the centre, Dr Fidelis Ojeblenu, frowned at the latest assault incident, warning that the management would henceforth take drastic measures to deal with perpetrators of such barbaric and criminal activities.

He said the management had initiated moves for the arrest and prosecution of those behind the assault to serve as a deterrent to others.

A statement by the Head of Public Relations and Information, Segun Orisajo, said the acting Medical Director urged relatives of patients to always exercise caution and refrain from the frequent attacks on the health care personnel anytime eventualities occur.

He said however that the management will continue to emphasize affective communication among the care givers to the patients and their relatives, noting that most of the assault cases have been traced to communication lapses.

A Lagos-based human rights group, Equal Right Advocates has said that it will not hesitate to begin legal battle with the All Progressives Congress (APC) Ogun State if under seven days it fails to return the name of one Olalekan Olaleye Babatunde as the councilorship candidate for Ward 3, Iperu, Ikenne local government for the forthcoming local government elections slated for Saturday July 24.

The petition of the right group signed by Barr. Nojeem Adeoye and dated Monday, July 5 was made available to journalists at Abeokuta, the state capital on Tuesday.

Copies of the petition addressed to the Chairman of APC, Ikenne local government were also said to have been sent to the governor of the state, Prince Dapo Abiodun, his deputy, Engr Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the Secretary to the state government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olakunle Oluomo, the Senior Special Adviser to the governor on politics, Rt. Hon Tunji Egbetokun, one Lekan Osinowo who is being alleged to have been used to replace their client among others.

The right group stated that in accordance with the directive of the leadership of the ruling party in the state, the APC members in Ward 3, Iperu on May 18, 2021 held councilorship primaries for the ward.

It stated further that four aspirants; Hon Lekan Osinowo, Ogunfowora Olanrewaju, Oyeti Oluwafemi and Olalekan Olaleye Babatunde contested the primaries.

The group disclosed that at the end of the exercise, their client, Olalekan Olaleye Babatunde polled 11 votes to defeat his closest rival, Hon Lekan Osinowo who polled seven votes while Ogunfowora Olanrewaju had one vote and Oyeti Oluwafemi nill.

The group explained further that after the winner of the primaries had been announced, the party leaders and the aspirants appended their names and signature to the result bearing Olalekan Olaleye Babatunde as the winner of the primaries and the same was sent to the party for onward transfer to the governor for his comment.

It revealed further that his client as well as the party members at Ward 3, Iperu Remo were however surprised to found out that on June 24 when the list of councilorship candidates from Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) surfaced online, his name had been allegedly substituted for Lekan Osinowo who never won the primaries.

The group said that though, their client had written and even made oral presentation to the governor as well as the party to correct this grave injustice, the party has decided not to lift a finger to help address this sheer illegality.

The right group claimed that the substitution of their client, Olalekan Olaleye Babatunde for Lekan Osinowo was unconstitutional and run against one of the provisions of the ruling party açcording to its 2014 constitution as amended that the party would always respect and protect internal democracy as well as the 2010 Electoral Acts as amended.

The group has therefore threatened that if within seven days the unlawful substitution of their client, Olalekan Olaleye Babatunde was not reversed and allowed to be the APC councilorship candidate for Ward 3, Iperu in the forthcoming local government elections, it would be left with no other choice than to challenge this alleged broad daylight robbery in a competent court of jurisdiction.

Lawyer to sue Ogun APC over substitution of candidate

A Lagos based lawyer, Barr. Daud Fazaz Segun has again threatened to drag Chief Yemi Sanusi, Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Ogun State to court if under three days, the name of his client and alleged winner of APC councilorship primaries for Ward 5, Iperu Remo, Mr Osularu Olabanjo Muyiwa was not made to appear on the list of councilorship candidates to partake in the local government elections slated for Saturday, July 24.

Copies of the letter dated Thursday, July 1st 2021, and sighted by our Correspondent were also dropped at the offices of the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, his Deputy, Engr Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the Secretary to the state government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi, the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Olakunle Oluomo, OGSIEC, APC secretariat, Ikenne local government as well as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Rt. Hon Tunji Egbetokun among others.

Barr Daud said the three pages letter served as a reminder and follow up to his letter of Monday June 28, where he had pleaded with Gov Dapo Abiodun to wade into the illegal substitution of his client and winner of APC councilorship primaries for Ward 5, Iperu Remo, Mr Osularu Olabanjo Muyiwa with one Hon Efuwape Olaitan Muhammed, a former councilor of the Ward and incumbent Vice Chairman, Caretaker Committee of Ikenne local government

The lawyer stated that his client considered it as grave injustice, rape on democracy and sheer illegality for the name of Efuwape Olaitan Muhammed who never participated in the Ward 5 Iperu councilorship primaries but rather served as the returning officer under whose observation the said primaries were conducted to now have his name in the list of Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) as the councilorship candidate for the Ward in the coming local government elections.

He explained that in the said councilorship primaries held on May 20, 2021, his client, Mr Osularu Olabanjo Muyiwa had defeated others two aspirants with 15 votes while Efuwape had stepped down and was therefore honoured with the privilege of seeing to the conduct of the primaries.

Barr Daud stated further that, after the primaries, the leaders in the Ward together with Efuwape signed the necessary documents announcing the choice of Osularu as the councilorship candidate for Ward 5, Iperu but Efuwape, who was also told to go and submit the list to the Chairman of APC in the local government had used this window of opportunity to substitute his name for that of Osularu.

He added that despite series of appeal by his client, Osularu, other leaders and APC members in the Ward that the state leadership of the party should correct this injustice, nothing was done up to date.

The lawyer equally stated further that four days after his first letter to the governor appealing for his intervention over this daylight robbery and great set back to entrenching internal democracy in the country, the silence from the governor has been very deafening.

Barr Daud revealed that his client has however said that if in the next 48 hours his name did not appear on the OGSIEC list as the APC councilorship candidate for Ward 5, Iperu Remo, Ikenne local government, he would be forced to approach the court as provided for in section 87 (9) Electoral Acts 2010 as amended to challenge this electoral fraud.

Don seeks urgent review of agric policies to avert famine



The Federal Government has been asked to urgently review all agricultural policies in the country in order to salvage the nation from imminent famine.

The 65th Inaugural Lecturer of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Ogun State, Prof. Adeyemi Bamgbose, who gave the advice, stressed the need for critical evaluation, assessment, impact and output of different agricultural policies aimed at overall improvement and sustainability of agriculture in Nigeria.

He argued that this will ensure food security for the Nigerian populace.

The call is coming at a time when Nigerians are lamenting rising cost of living as the country’s inflation hits a 4-year high by more than 18 percent in March.

This has also led to food prices going up by almost 23 percent.

Prof. Bamgbose spoke on the topic, “Feeds and Feedstuffs: Panacea for Declining Commercial Animal Agriculture and Food Insecurity in Nigeria", held at Oluwafemi Balogun ceremonial building.

According to him, the task ahead of Nigeria’s livestock sub-section is multifarious and challenging and success will only be achieved through re-orientation, commitment, dedication, sacrifice, honesty, accountability, adequate funding, motivation and cooperation of all Nigerians in particular and the international community in general.

The Don, who is of the Department of Animal Nutrition, College of Animal Science and Livestock Production (COLANIM), said there was need to harness the available unconventional/alternative feed resources localised in different eco-systems and regions in Nigeria for utilisation in the efficient and sufficient nutrition of farm animals for improved productive and economic performance.

The Professor of Animal Nutrition added that the necessity to improve the current animal production systems in Nigeria cannot be disputed, stressing that there is great need for more food in the country, particularly more animal products.

He said the utilisation of some important unconventional feedstuffs through improved feeding regimes and the management practices could be used to improve the productivity of monogastric animals which would stimulate human productivity, engender development and increase gross domestic products (GDP), thus accentuating economic recovery and food security.

"By doing so, Nigeria will join the league of advanced countries in the world in no distant future" he said.

Prof. Bamgbose called for re-introduction and commercialisation of branded FUNAAB feeds to guarantee availability of quality feeds to livestock farmers, adding that commercialisation of poultry are rabbit production is an avenue to increase the Internal Generated Revenue (IGR) of the University and ensure farm fresh animal products like meat, eggs and so on for the university community and the nation at large.

He also called for the establishment of an agricultural village on the University farm under the management of Directorate of University Farms (DUFARMS), to be involved in agric-business ventures and enterprises.

He stressed that it can be involved in training, workshop, entrepreneurship, production, processing, preservation, packaging, youth/women empowerment and marketing.

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of the school, Prof. Kolawole Salako, commended the inaugural lecturer for working extensively on the use of protein and energy feedstuffs in livestock nutrition.


He described him as an accomplished scholar, a thorough-bred academic, a dedicated teacher, and a researcher of great repute, who has made significant contributions to Monogastric Nutrition in Nigeria.

Lawyer petitions Abiodun over Ogun APC primaries

A Lagos based lawyer, Barr F S Daud has written the governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun asking for his urgent intervention over the replacement of his client, one Osularu Olabanjo Muyiwa who was said to have won the All Progressives Congress (APC) Councilorship primaries for Ward 5, Iperu Remo, the governor's home town but has now been replaced by one Hon Efuwape Olaitan Muhammed, the incumbent Vice Chairman, Caretaker Committee of Ikenne local government.

Copies of Barr Daud's petition dated June 28, 2021 and titled "Manipulation of result and unlawful replacement of Mr Osularu Olabanjo Muyiwa, the winner of APC Councilorship primaries for Ward 5, Iperu Remo, Ikenne local government with Mr Efuwape Olaitan Muhammed" were made available to newsmen at Abeokuta, the state capital on Monday.

Copies of the letter were also said to have been sent to the offices of the Deputy governor, the Speaker of the state assembly as well as that of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.

The lawyer explained that going by the party's directive to conduct Councilorship primaries ahead of the July 24 local government elections, the members of APC in Ward 5, Iperu Remo on May 20th came out with 21 leaders/ delagates to pick the councilorship candidate for the ward.

Barr. Daud explained that though there were initially seven aspirants but four of them later stepped down leaving three others, Mr Bakare Abolore, Waheed Osinaike and Osularu Olabanjo Muyiwa in the race.

He said Mr Efuwape Olaitan Muhammed, a former councilor for the ward and serving Vice-Chairman of the Caretaker Committee of the local government was one of the aspirants that stepped down and was therefore honoured to be the Returning Officer, that is, the umpire for the primaries.

At the end of the exercise, Efuwape was said to have announced Osularu Olabanjo Muyiwa with 15 votes as the winner of the primaries while Waheed Osinaike came distant second with four votes and Bakare Abolore came third with no vote.

All the leaders and other aspirants were said to have appended their names and signatures to the document announcing the victory of Osularu Olabanjo Muyiwa while the same was also sent to the appropriate quarters of the party stating that he (Osularu) is the party's flagbearer for Ward 5, Iperu in the forthcoming local government elections.

Barr Daud disclosed further that his client was however shocked to the marrow when on Thursday, June 24, the list of the councilorship candidates for the forthcoming local government elections surfaced on the social media and rather than his name as the Ward 5 Iperu councilorship candidate, the list bore the name of Mr Efuwape Olaitan Muhammed serving currently as the Vice Chairman, Caretaker Committee of the local government.


The lawyer disclosed further that, though his client had written the state party structure to intervene over this crass corruption and unbearable injustice but nothing has been done.

He said this informed the decision to write the state governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun for urgent intervention because the matter was already generating tension at the governor's hometown and the party members may soon begin to drag themselves to court except the governor intervene on time.

Barr Daud said this unfortunate incident negated the strongly held view of the Supreme Court which says that aspirant who has the highest votes at the end of voting during the party's primaries is deemed the candidate of such party for the election concerned and his or her name would be sent to the electoral body conducting the election.


END

Polaris Bank Launches ‘Refer & Win’ Reward for VULTe Users

Polaris Bank has announced the launch of a new reward: ‘Refer & Win’ exercise in which existing and new users of the Bank’s digital banking platform, VULTe, stand a chance to win up to N1,300 instant cash reward each time they refer someone who opens an account and enrolls on the newly-launched innovative digital solution. 

To benefit from the reward initiative, all a referrer (who could be an existing customer or non-customer of the Bank) needs do, is to refer a new user to open a Polaris Bank account by enrolling on the VULTe digital bank platform, while for every referral completed, both the referrer and referred’s account will be credited with N300 and N200 respectively, instantly. 

Speaking on the new reward initiative, Polaris Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Innocent C. Ike, said the Referral Campaign is aimed at positioning VULTe as a unique digital solution to reward both the existing and new customers of the Bank. 

‘‘VULTe stands out as a very unique innovative digital bank platform in many respects. It not only provides users unique offerings as a self-service solution, it also offers convenience, speed and reliability on the go. The Referral Campaign aligns with our Bank’s commitment to provide new experience and easier accessibility to banking services for all customers, and to reward them for their continued loyalty,’’ he said.  

While encouraging existing and new customers to take advantage of the ‘Refer & Win’ exercise to increase their savings and earn extra money, the Polaris CEO added that the campaign is a season of reward for staff, customers and non-customers of the Bank once their referrers successfully enroll on the Polaris Bank’s VULTe platform. 

Polaris Bank’s Chief Digital Officer, Mr. Dele Adeyinka, while explaining the mechanics for participating in the reward exercise, disclosed that participants are required to enroll, fetch their referral code from VULTe and share with prospects.

‘‘The referral code is the indicator to the individual that introduced the Application to the new user. This, will also be used, in aggregating the total payout due to the referrer,’’ he said.

Adeyinka added that the participants will only qualify for rewards, after the referred have successfully set up an account on VULTe.

The campaign, he explained further, is split into two reward categories, and a referrer will be paid for referring users based on the account level/referred customer category.

Category one is where the customer opens and completes an account on VULTe using Bank Verification Number (BVN). 

According to the CDO, for a new user that is successfully enrolled under category one, the referrer will earn a maximum of N300 per referral; while the referred earns N200.

For category two, a customer is required to open an account with Know-Your-Customer (KYC) information supplied on VULTe, plus obtaining a debit card through the platform. A referrer earns N1,300 per referral and N200 for the referred; that is additional N1,000 from the N300 base amount from category one. 

‘The referral figures will automatically display on VULTe as the enrolment process is complete and the participants can log on VULTe app to check performance. So, for each successfully completed referred enrollment, winnings will be credited into the participant’s account immediately’’, Adeyinka explained.

He assured participants that the reward programme is transparent, and promised that Polaris Bank would continue to delight its customers and non-customers with innovative services that can make life, lot better.  

Polaris Bank is a future-determining Bank committed to the delivery of industry-defining products, and services, across all the sectors of the Nigerian economy.
-END-

Polaris Bank Launches ‘Refer & Win’ Reward for VULTe Users

Polaris Bank has announced the launch of a new reward: ‘Refer & Win’ exercise in which existing and new users of the Bank’s digital banking platform, VULTe, stand a chance to win up to N1,300 instant cash reward each time they refer someone who opens an account and enrolls on the newly-launched innovative digital solution. 

To benefit from the reward initiative, all a referrer (who could be an existing customer or non-customer of the Bank) needs do, is to refer a new user to open a Polaris Bank account by enrolling on the VULTe digital bank platform, while for every referral completed, both the referrer and referred’s account will be credited with N300 and N200 respectively, instantly. 

Speaking on the new reward initiative, Polaris Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Innocent C. Ike, said the Referral Campaign is aimed at positioning VULTe as a unique digital solution to reward both the existing and new customers of the Bank. 

‘‘VULTe stands out as a very unique innovative digital bank platform in many respects. It not only provides users unique offerings as a self-service solution, it also offers convenience, speed and reliability on the go. The Referral Campaign aligns with our Bank’s commitment to provide new experience and easier accessibility to banking services for all customers, and to reward them for their continued loyalty,’’ he said.  

While encouraging existing and new customers to take advantage of the ‘Refer & Win’ exercise to increase their savings and earn extra money, the Polaris CEO added that the campaign is a season of reward for staff, customers and non-customers of the Bank once their referrers successfully enroll on the Polaris Bank’s VULTe platform. 

Polaris Bank’s Chief Digital Officer, Mr. Dele Adeyinka, while explaining the mechanics for participating in the reward exercise, disclosed that participants are required to enroll, fetch their referral code from VULTe and share with prospects.

‘‘The referral code is the indicator to the individual that introduced the Application to the new user. This, will also be used, in aggregating the total payout due to the referrer,’’ he said.

Adeyinka added that the participants will only qualify for rewards, after the referred have successfully set up an account on VULTe.

The campaign, he explained further, is split into two reward categories, and a referrer will be paid for referring users based on the account level/referred customer category.

Category one is where the customer opens and completes an account on VULTe using Bank Verification Number (BVN). 

According to the CDO, for a new user that is successfully enrolled under category one, the referrer will earn a maximum of N300 per referral; while the referred earns N200.

For category two, a customer is required to open an account with Know-Your-Customer (KYC) information supplied on VULTe, plus obtaining a debit card through the platform. A referrer earns N1,300 per referral and N200 for the referred; that is additional N1,000 from the N300 base amount from category one. 

‘The referral figures will automatically display on VULTe as the enrolment process is complete and the participants can log on VULTe app to check performance. So, for each successfully completed referred enrollment, winnings will be credited into the participant’s account immediately’’, Adeyinka explained.

He assured participants that the reward programme is transparent, and promised that Polaris Bank would continue to delight its customers and non-customers with innovative services that can make life, lot better.  

Polaris Bank is a future-determining Bank committed to the delivery of industry-defining products, and services, across all the sectors of the Nigerian economy.
-END-

Insecurity: Students vow to shut nation's economy, campuses


As a result of the security threats on Nigerian tertiary institutions, the National Association of University Students (NAUS) has vowed to take laws into their hands if the federal government fail to find lasting solution to the high rate of insecurity.

The association's National President, Comrade Ijegalu Felix, disclosed this on Sunday at a press conference held in Abeokuta, the Ogun state capital.

Ijegalu expressed displeasure on the attacks carried out by bandits, kidnappers, and criminal herdsmen on students in tertiary institutions across the nation.

He noted that, the unruly attacks has not only put the lives the students in danger, but has also destroyed the already crisis ridden educational sector.

"It is most worrisome and unfortunate that in Nigeria today, hardly will a day go by without the news of an attack on our institutions of learning, with students, lecturers and other staff members being kidnapped or killed by suspected bandits or criminal herdsmen.

"This has not only put the lives of our students in danger, but it is also destroying our already crisis ridden educational sector", he added.

The association however, beckon on President Muhammadu Buhari to provide a lasting solution to the security challenges in the country.

"We hereby call on the President Muhammadu Buhari's led government to find lasting solutions to the insecurity challenges in the country otherwise we maybe forced to take laws into our hands.

"We also call on the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Usman Alkali Baba, to immediately withdraw police personnel attached to VIPs across the country with a view to redeploying them to our various institution of learning to protect the lives of our students.

"Because of what use are the policemen to the VIPs if the lives of theBstudents who are the future of this country continue to be in danger", he queried.

He added that students across the country are living in constant fear of being kidnapped or killed in their bid to be educated.

He emphasized that students risk their lives daily to acquire education, accusing government of failing in its duty to protect lives and properties.

The association equally appealed to the federal government to heed to the demands of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to avert another imminent strike.

It will be recalled that at about three months ago, lecturers in Nigerian universities suspended a nine-month old strike.

He said that, "it is appalling and most embarrassing that, lecturers have to go on strike for them to be taken serious by the Federal government.

"The government has once again shown its ineptitude and lack of sympathy to the plights of Nigerian students who have become puns in the game of power between the government and ASUU."

Ijegalu however, urged government to show commitment in reviving the educational sector by addressing some of the issues raised by ASUU.

He also commended the effort of Governor Dapo Abiodun in Ogun State in bringing even development to the state.

"Governor Dapo Abiodun has exhibited exceptional and purposeful leadership with his people's oriented projects which are scattered across every nook and cranny of the state" he stressed.

FUNAAB VC, others hail Senate's approval of University of Medicine, Abeokuta


The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Prof. Kolawole Salako, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) have commended the Senate for the passage of a bill seeking for the establishment of Federal University of Medicine and Medical Sciences in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Prof. Salako reacted to the positive development via a congratulatory message.

Also reacting, the Chairman of NMA, Ogun State branch, Dr. Oladayo Ogunlaja, described the Senate's action as historic and a welcome development.

"I salute the Senate for this historic approval. Definitely, when established, the University will provide opportunity for several of Nigerian youths intending to study Medicine and allied courses.

"Besides, the university will stimulate training, research and provide employment for many Nigerians'

Dr Ogunlaja praised the visionary of the project, Prof. Adewale Musa-Olomu, whom he described as a goal-getter.

"Prof Musa-Olomu is by all standards a goal getter. His achievements at the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta are remarkable and outstanding."

The NLC Chairman, Ogun State chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Bankole, urged President Muhammadu Buhari to expeditiously assent the bill without further delay.

Comrade Bankole expressed optimism that the proposed university will impact on the ailing health sector while also checking the medical tourism.

The Chairman remarked that the dream for the establishment of the university could only happen through a man of vision like Prof Musa-Olomu.

"It is heart-warming to see this thing happening in our lifetime because this is what our forefathers centuries past had longed for.

"It is therefore commendable seeing somebody like Prof Musa-Olomu, who propelled energy towards this noble cause.

"Egba indigenes and indeed the entire Nigerians will eternally be grateful to Prof Adewale Musa-Olomu for this courageous initiative".

The Riders and Owners of Motorcycles Organisation (ROMO) has declared support for the Ogun State government's planned registration and introduction of jackets to commercial motorcyclists operating in the State.

The State Government had expressed worry over the lingering security challenges linked to unregistered Okoda riders operating in the State.

The Government, therefore revealed that it has concluded plans to register, co-ordinate and monitor the activities and operations of motorcyclists in the State as part of efforts at addressing the security challenges.

Following the Government's decision, the leadership of ROMO has threw its weight behind the move, describing it as a good step in the right direction.

In a statement by the ROMO Media Team, in Abeokuta on Monday, the union warned that, it would no longer tolerate any act of indiscipline or violation of laws guiding the operation of commercial operation by any motorcyclist in the State.

"The union, in partnership with the State Police Command, the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) and other law enforcement agencies will embark on an enforcement tour across the State to clamp down on operators of unregistered motorcycles.

"We in total support of the Ogun Government's plan to register and introduce jackets to commercial motorcyclists operating in the State.

"We will no long fold our arms and watch criminal elements hiding under the guise of commercial motorcyclists continue to perpetrate their criminal acts and plunge the State into serious crisis."

DACA Remains Our Initiative - Armstrong Akintunde



A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ogun State, Hon. Armstrong 'Tope Akintunde has said that he remains the convener of the Dapo Abiodun 2023 Continuity Agenda (DACA) in the state.

Hon. Armstrong 'Tope Akintunde said this clarification became imperative following the reported inauguration of this same sociopolitical group by some group of politicians from Abeokuta South local government on Friday.

Reacting to this report, Armstrong in a chat with newsmen insisted that the Dapo Abiodun 2023 Continuity Agenda (DACA) remains his initiative and the group had since taken off since last year.

Akintunde said, "It's very unfortunate that some group of people can gather somewhere to lay claim to the same initiative we've been building since last year.

"Our group had since been mobilising members for our party and galvanising support for the second term ambition of Gov Dapo Abiodun . In the last one year of our existence, our group has rolled out many empowerment programmes for the benefit of our people which we started in Ogun East in 2020.

"Aside these series of empowerment, we have built shopping complex at Iperu under Ikenne Local Govt and our intention is to build 20 shopping complexes in all local Government areas in the state.

"The shopping complex project when completed will be allocated to the people, it's a mean of empowering our market women and the youths across the 20 local government in support of Gov. Abiodun's well deserved second term in office and we have done the layout for this project.

"Under this initiative, we have also distributed many empowerment tools. For instance, we have given out 100 sewing machines,100 motorcycles, 100 freezers, 100 generators, 100 grounding machines, 100 clippers for babers, 100 Standing fans, 100 washing machines, 100 gas cookers among others.

"It is on this note that I want to inform the general public that DACA undoubtedly remain my brainchild, no one can hijack this initiative which is meant to promote and project the good work of Prince Dapo Abiodun and rally support for the second term ambition of our hard working governor".

Buttressing the claim of the convener, Comrade Olatunde Ojuri and Mrs Funke Fasasi Coordinators of the group, while speaking with journalists on Saturday said it was disappointing that some group of people could gather in one corner and be laying claim to what never belong to them.

Comrade Olatunde Ojuri said "our group, DACA has started working and empowering people since last year. It was launched sometimes ago, we are doing its official launching in Iperu Remo as soon as we completed some ongoing projects to garner support for Prince Dapo Abiodun's second term in office, this our own group has empowered and built a shopping complex at Iperu and this is quite real, it's what everybody can see.

"We therefore urge our teeming members to remain calm, no one can hijack Dapo Abiodun 2023 Continuity Agenda (DACA) support group from us, it's our initiative and this remained our position".

Advans La Fayette Microfinance Bank launches Cashless centres in Offa, Iseyin

... Adopts Agile Branch System

In a bid to create more efficient and agile branches, which are closer to the financially excluded members of the society, Advans Nigeria has launched 2 new cashless centres in Offa, Kwara state, and Iseyin, Oyo state.

These 2 new agile branches bring the number of Advans cashless centres serving hundreds of financially undeserved in Nigeria to 3, and a total of 17 branches.

According to the MD/CEO, Gaetan Debuchy, “the expansion is one of the company’s innovative approaches to providing seamless, affordable and transparent financial services to micro, small and medium scale enterprises in the nooks and crannies of Nigeria.

"It will help us as a Bank to make more impact with less resources so as not to increase the cost of service to clients”.

He added that Advans is a model microfinance institution that has continued to promote private sector-led economic and social development in Nigeria, and 9 other countries.

Speaking on the decision of where these cashless branches are situated, the Chief of Business & Strategy, Elvis Oheneba quipped that factors like proximity to small businesses, and convenience for individuals and business owners, were put into consideration adding that, “we intend to increase the number of cashless branches from 3 to 6 by the end of the year 2021”.

The DCEO, who also oversees the business activities for the Bank network across Nigeria, Jean-Luc Nzoubou, explained that ‘a cashless centre' can do everything a full branch can do. Customers can apply for loans, open savings and current accounts, get access to business advisory, and also carry out other transactions without having to travel long distances’.

‘Furthermore, the cashless centres will also provide an extensive array of other products and services and wealth management services which underscores the Bank’s mission to provide client-centric financial services to under- served populations in a sustainable and responsible manner’, Nzoubou said.

##






About Advans Nigeria

Advans Nigeria is a member of the Advans group, providing innovative financial solutions to over 1.1 million clients in 9 countries, and offering a complete range of financial services that have helped to build over 5 million small businesses.

As an international microfinance bank with a national license from the CBN, Advans La Fayette Microfinance Bank offers great flexibility, independence and financial security to help clients stay committed to their short and long term financial goals.

Majekodunmi denies maligning of co-contestants


The chairmanship candidate, Abeokuta South Local Government, Hon. Omolaja Majekodunmi has denied the report going viral that he is not ready to reconcile with other Chairmanship Aspirants in the local government.


Recall that the Chairmanship Candidate was on Tuesday accused of saying that he would not reconcile with other Chairmanship Aspirants in the local government.


Majekodunmi described the report as misinterpretation

The Chairmanship Candidate in a statement personally signed by him and which was made available to newsmen today enjoined the public to disregard the report, saying that he is a man of peace and he is not ready to fight any chairmanship aspirants in the local government.

Majekodunmi maintained that as long as they are still in the same party, he will continue to be friends of other Chairmanship Aspirants and not enemies.

Majekodunmi said, 'I want to tell the public that I didn't make such statement, I was mis interpreted, what I want from my co-contestants is to Support me to win in the forthcoming elections because I can't do it alone.

"I also want to thank one of our leaders, Alhaji Farouq Adeniyi Akintunde, the newly appointed Senior Special Assistant to Govenor Abiodun on Environment for his love and support for the party, he has proven to be a leader per excellence.

"I want to appreciate our amiable Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, Leaders and Elders of Abeokuta south APC for their efforts in making sure that the premier local government remains a peaceful one.

The Chairmanship candidate therefore implored all his co-contestants to rally round him, saying that they are all winners.

Advans Nigeria Partners LUTH, Celebrates World Blood Donor Day
 
 
To commemorate this year’s World Blood Donor Day, staff of Advans Nigeria, including the MD/CEO Mr. Gaetan Debuchy participated in a Blood Donation Drive at their Head Office Annex in Lagos.

Initiated by the World Health Organization (WHO), World Blood Donor Day aims to raise global awareness of the need for safe transfusion of blood and blood products while celebrating the critical contributions made by voluntary, unpaid blood donors to national health systems.

This year’s (2021) slogan, “Give blood and keep the world beating” reinforces the global call for more people all over the world to donate blood regularly and contribute to better health. Donating just one pint of blood can save more than one person's life, according to the American Red Cross.
 
Speaking at the event, Priscilla Iyari, Head of Marketing and Communications, who also oversees Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability at Advans Nigeria stated that “We put our clients first by creating innovative financial solutions to suit underserved members of the society, helping them be more empowered economically.

However, apart from improving financial inclusion and fostering economic empowerment, this drive is one of the results of our vibrant employee engagement scheme and another way we put our community and society first. I mean, what is a greater gift than to give a part of yourself’’.

For 2021 World Blood Donors' Day Celebration, Advans Nigeria partnered with the Department of Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH).

According to Prof (Mrs.) Adeyemo, the Supervising Consultant Haematologist to the Transfusion Unit, ‘I would like to acknowledge the generosity of the Advans LifeSource blood donors and thank them for their contribution to the Nigerian health sector.

As part of this year’s World Blood Donor Day, we are creating more awareness for Nigerians to give blood and save lives. Regular blood donation is beneficial to donors in the following ways: it reduces the risk of iron overload, which is excess iron in the body thereby reducing the risk of heart and liver ailments caused by the iron overload in the body. It also stimulates the production of new blood cells and in turn, helps in maintaining good health.  You also get a free health check-up. This free mini-physical examination can offer excellent insight into your health. And overall, you help save lives: yours and others!
 
The Bank has committed to carrying out an awareness campaign on the subject matter, and to continue to foster community solidarity and social cohesion.

He is Chief Solih Layiwola Olabode, the Aare Baaroyin of Egbaland and Balogun Ijaye Muslims.

Aare Layi Labode was installed on Tuesday, 15th of June, 2021, at Egba Central Mosque, Kobiti, Abeokuta.

The honoured, whose 78th Birthday coincide with the occasion was described as most deserving of the honour by the Egba Muslim Clerics.

In his sermon, the Mufasir of Egbaland, Alhaji Taofeek Amolegbe, said that the new Aare Egba Muslims had lived up to the good legacies of his forefathers and had upheld the good name of the Labode Family.

Ahaji Amolegbe also admonished the new Muslim Chief should continue to be exemplary leader in all his positions in Egbaland.

Responding, the new Aare Egba Muslims, Aare Solih Layi Labode appreciated all Egba Religious Leaders, Chiefs and dignitaries present for their continued love and support.

Aare Labode further pledged to serve Egbaland with absolute commitment and patriotism.

Among the dignitaries present are the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo represented by the Akingboye of Egbaland, Chief Imams of Owu, Gbagura, and Oke-Ona, Sheikh Lawal-Wakeelul of Yorubaland, among others.

Ogun NANS cautions youths to steer clear of June 12 protest


The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged Nigerian youths to shun a nationwide protest being planned for Saturday, June 12, saying it is a plot to destabilise the country.

There is apprehension across the nation as somenindividuals have threatened to shut down the nation with the said protest, tagged #Buharimustgo.

But NANS said the protest is being sponsored by some people who it said are hellbent in disrupting the peace of the nation.

In a press conference addressed at the NUJ Secretariat, Oke-ilewo, Abeokuta, the Ogun State Chairman of NANS, Damilola Simeon, said the students body would never be in support of any protest that would put the nation in jeopardy.

Simeon said, with June 12, “we must continue to appreciate the efforts of the founding fathers of Nigeria’s democracy, especially late MKO Abiola, the father of Nigeria’s modern democracy, who fought and even laid down his life for Nigerians to have the democracy we are now all enjoying".

According to him, June 12 carries heavy symbolism for a country that is known for more years of military rule than democracy.

He said, “Going by this, we want to say that we are not in support of any planned protest on June 12.

“We want to state unequivocally, that we will not be part of any protest or ploy by anybody or group of individuals to disrupt the relative peace Nigerians are enjoying, nor would we join any protest whose aim is to cause the disintegration of Nigeria.

“As much as we are against the Federal government and President Muhammadu Buhari’s led administration and its refusal to find lasting solutions to the myriads of problems confronting the country, we will not join in any protest or move that will further put Nigeria into destruction.

“We are not anarchists and we are not going to join in anything that will put the efforts of the founding fathers of Nigeria and those that fought for the unity and democracy of Nigeria in jeopardy.

“We are not ingrates and despite the current situation of the country, we believe a mass protest that will cause anarchy and weaken the already crisis-ridden security architecture of the country is not the solution to the problems.

“The glory of June 12 must not be rubbished by those inviting anarchy through the planned protest. The sacrifices of our founding fathers must not be compensated with rebellious acts against the country. We believe Nigeria will survive the current turmoil and anarchy is not the way to go.

“MKO Abiola is our true son in Ogun State and we should not allow selfish individuals or groups of individuals to destroy his legacies all in the name of a protest.

“The leadership of NANS and NAOSS, therefore call on all students in the State to shun the planned protest and embrace peace. We should not allow ourselves to be used by selfish individuals and groups to destroy
the country.

“We appeal to those attacking police formations in the country to put an
end to the act and embrace peace.”

Six more years in the decade of a sexagenarian has given Aare Sarifiyu Kazeem Adebanjo occasion to look straight ahead in deep contemplation. Such retrospective mien affords him the time to reflect on life and express gratitude to the Almighty, for a fruitful life.

In this interview with our correspondent, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SAF Petroleum, who is celebrating his 66th birthday, describes his grace of stature as the blessing of Allah, and particularly urges that it is the duty of all to make Nigeria work, and that, very soon, the nation will emerge stronger from its challenges.

Excerpts:

What is your take on the general state of affairs in Nigeria?
Whatever the challenges we may be passing through, I have that strong conviction that all will soon become history. I think the difficulties are just pointing to the fact that this country is destined to be great. I believe Nigeria is God’s project; that He, the almighty God won’t allow to fail. There’s indeed hope of a better tomorrow; so we all have strong reasons to be hopeful. Let’s all cooperate with our leaders and remain obedient citizens. It is the duty of all of us; the one leading and the led, to make this country work.

As an entrepreneur, how do you think the unemployment challenge in Nigeria can be eased out?
It is high time our youth began to think of what they can do with their hands, the white collar jobs are no longer available. Even many governments of the world are facing the same challenge, it’s not only Nigeria that is not finding it easy to fulfill their obligation to the workers.
Workers have kept on increasing, leading to increase in wages and other emoluments; whereas, the income has been shrinking. Moreover, other duties of government such as provision of infrastructure like roads, housing, quality education, health services, among others, must also be done. So, let our youth also think of what they could do to be employer of labour, start in a small way and grow the job as time goes on. The government too should provide some kind of support such as soft loan for willing entrepreneurs, provide good roads and stable power supply, and massive investment in agriculture too. All these will help to reduce unemployment.

What is your advice to young entrepreneurs?
They have to remain focused and be tenacious. As a young entrepreneur, you must be ready to persevere because good things don’t come easily. Don’t cut corners, when you are in need of advice, seek counsel from those that have been well established in the business. Above all, be closer to God, always talk to God in prayer and be confident that it will always get better. Attitude, they say, determine altitude; so it’s important to remain positive in all that we do for greater heights.

What is your take on the MOU on Lagos-Ogun Joint Commission signed recently by Gov Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Gov Dapo Abiodun?
Lagos and Ogun States are like siamese twins, so doing things in common should be natural to both states. The two states are so interwoven that you will be in some places in Lagos State that are actually in Ogun State. There are so many people living in Ogun but working in Lagos. It is really a welcome development. For instance, the two governors have said that it is under this joint commission that they want to jointly fix Sagamu-Ogijo-Ikorodu expressway, likewise Abeokuta-Sango-Lagos expressway. Imagine what impact these projects will have on the economy of both states.

What drives economy all over the world is partnership. It is in the light of this reality that I want to say synergies and initiatives like this are welcome development, they are good steps towards maximising the abundant potentials in human, financial and other natural resources that will ultimately help in creating better society and making life more bearable for all.

For instance, it is under an initiative like this that both governors are combining strength to fix the impassable Sagamu-Ogijo-Ikorodu as well as Abeokuta-Sango-Lagos expressways, among others. All these, when fixed, will impact positively on the lives of the residents of both states. With the proximity of Ogun State to Lagos, it has a lot to tap from its huge economy and this I am sure, is going to be a plus for the residents of the state.

*What lesson has life taught you in the last 66 years?

Thank you, first and foremost, I must say I am grateful to Almighty Allah for life. There are many of my mates and those who are even younger that have gone, so I am full of praises to the almighty God. One of those lessons life has taught me is that when you strongly believe in a project and you put your efforts into it, you will eventually succeed and that is why I usually urge people not to despair because nothing is static, no condition is permanent. Life has also taught me that we should be mindful of others. If God has worked it out for you, be ready to support others, affect the lives of people around you for good, after all, what will matter most after you have been long gone, I mean dead, are the lives God had assisted you to touch while you were alive. This is quite important, it’s all good we live a life of impact, it makes the society a lot richer and better.

As an investor in oil and gas, how do we achieve stability in fuel pump price?
It’s the general opinion, based on simple economics that except our refineries are functioning maximally well, such that we can refine our crude oil need here, there will always be instability in the fuel pump price because our crude oil are currently being refined abroad before it is now brought back for us to buy. If this continues, there’s no end in sight for increasing fuel pump price. Rather than wasting another $4bn on Turn Around Maintenance of the existing refineries that have yielded little or nothing in the past, the government should roll out plans to build three refineries within the next 10 years. It’s not to our advantage, I mean those of us in oil and gas that we have to be adjusting our pump price frequently because it also means that cost price has changed and so we will also have to be looking for more capital whenever we want to buy the product for our filling stations.

Building of new refineries would not only help to create thousands of jobs but also in the long run, help to cut down what Nigerians are paying for fuel since it is now produced locally. Rather than wasting fund on repairing the country’s old refineries which has yielded little or nothing, the federal government should concentrate efforts on constructing new refineries that would not only help in providing employment but also guarantee steady supply of petroleum products and thus ease the suffering of all Nigerians. Time is now for the federal government to build new refineries so that we can stop importation of what ordinarily we have in abundance here. It’s against all logic that we are still importing fuel; does that mean we don’t have the wherewithal to build at least two new refineries under two years?

With new refineries, we will be solving the major problem of frequent increment in pump price, ensure steady supply of fuel and as well provide jobs for our teeming youths. The issue of controversial oil subsidy which usually pitches the government against the people will also become history. The implication of this is that the country will have more fund to attend to its developmental needs, among others. One other major constraint confronting the business of oil and gas in the country is the problem of infrastructural deficit and largely, the challenges of bad roads which are more often than not, responsible for tankers’ accident. I am appealing to both federal and state government to help in addressing this problem.

Ogun APC screening committee clears Adesina of alleged certificate forgery


All Progressives Congress Obafemi-Owode Local Government has today denied the ostensible certificate forgery of an Aspirant named Hon. Ogunsola Adesina mirrored the Aspirant did not graduate from the Noble University, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State.

According to the Secretary of the Screening Committee, Com. Clement Adeniyi, maintained that the alleged statement surfaced in May 17, 2021 by one comrade Samson Adekunle from Asipa Village of OOLG who stiltedly beyonded the petulant claim that OOLG Chairman Screening Committee headed by Chief Kola Sorinola and the Party in OOLG were incapacitated to do thourough justice to the screening in which they thought it arised the consequences of Hon. Ogunsola that the certified result presented to the Screening Committee were not valid and in cursory, the Screening Committee has critically observed that the scribble of above choleric statements are to eclipse the Subject and the glory of the leading Party, APC for their selfish desires were not met as expected from the Screening Committee.

Nevertheless, the Secretary Screening Committee, APC Obafemi-Owode Local Government Com. Adeniyi evidently confirmed to the Caveattimes News that another alleged statement resurfaced on the Platform sometimes in June 9, 2021 written by a Reporter, Quadri Yahya that the tertiary institution certificate submitted by the aspirant is questionable as the institution he claimed to have attended had denied giving the certificate to the aspirant, with no affirmation that the purported document been paraded indeed has any direct bearing with any document presented before the committee by the alleged candidate.

In this wise, the Screening Committee Chairman and Party stated that the attention seeking lamentation of the aforementioned alienated individual is not only mischievous but cheap attempt to mislead/ incite the general public against the Screening Committee and the Party, thereby bringing the good work of the Committee to disrepute.

"It is obvious and evident that the two writers of the misleading stories did not research the limitations of the power and responsibilities of the Committee on the screened Chairmanship Aspirant before; polluting the public with falsehood, erroneous and fallacious claims against the Committee and its Chairman. Hence, we will like to educate them of the believed falsehood on the responsibilities and power of the Screening Committee without infringing on the constitutional right of any of the aspirants", Screening Committee stated.

Howbiet, Having explained all these, the Screening Committee, the Party in Obafemi Owode Local Government and its environ, therefore advised those who derive joy in politics of bitterness, calumny and dirty politics to change their ways and believe in the saying that, " Que Sera, Sera, Whatever Will Be, Will Be"!

The Screening Committee therefore urged members of the public to ignore the mislead and deluded story piled up by Integrity Group and Co. As every necessary action is ongoing to present to the Party faithfuls and good people of the Local government a befitting Local Government Chairmanship Candidate by leadership of our great party, while instruction had been given to all aspirants to desist from reacting to any fallacious allegations flying around in the interim, especially when international mechanism being set in place by our great party is yet to issue out it findings on the forgoing, which will not be selective in nature.

NANS seeks speedy presidential assent on upgrade of Ilaro Poly


The leadership of National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) in Ogun State have called on President Muhammadu Buhari to expressly assented to the Bill upgrading the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro to University.

The student's body in a statement signed by its Ogun State JCC Chairman, Damilola Simeon noted that the speed assent of the Bill by the presidency would prevent unnecessary bureaucracy that may serve as impediment to the Bill.

NANS therefore, commended the promoter of the Bill, Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi) for his tenacity in reintroducing the Bill after the initial rejection by the 8th Assembly.

"At a time when the continuous disregard of the Academic sector from the Federal government is reaching its climax, it’s indeed heartwarming to see substantive, deliberate and intentional action being taken to ameliorate the rot in the sector and the same time catapult the educational system to a new high.

"As the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students in Ogun State, we’re ecstatic to hear of the passage of a bill that seeks for the upgrade of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro to a University by the Nigerian Senate House.

"The bill sponsored by Senator Adeola Olamilekan YAYI, will instantly empower the institution to award degrees to students, further increase the institution’s research strength and add to the school’s pedagogical impacts.

"We recognise the tenacity of Senator Olamilekan Adeola for not backing off after the initial rejection of the bill at the 8th Senate, but rather He reintroduced it at the 9th Senate where it met with success.

This singular act of doggedness have established Senator Olamilekan Adeola as a formidable friend of the Students constituency.

"The timeliness and relevance of this bill cannot be overemphasised and such we urge President Muhammad Buhari to as a matter of urgency assent to this bid and avoid any unnecessary bureaucracy that may serve as impediments.

"The leadership of NANS Ogun JCC under the charismatic captainship of Comrade Damilola Simeon Kehinde (DAOSMOS) remains undeterred in spotlighting, repelling and combating of inordinate actions that may negatively affect the Nigerians while relentlessly celebrating meritorious acts towards the constituency."