Of the close to 2,000 kilometers of roads reportedly built by the present administration in Oyo state over the past 6 years, an impressive chunk of it are a network of urban and rural roads outside the state capital.

It is encouraging to know that the spate of development seen by most in the state capital is similar to what's obtainable in our other cities.

While the major highways that are newly constructed and/or reconstructed in other major cities within Oyo state have opened new economic windows therein, the rural roads in their own might have seriously boosted agricultural productivity by creating ease of access.

Most of these rural roads were constructed to lead to expansive farmlands, remove the bottleneck of poor accessibility and then make agriculture productive. It is also noteworthy to know that most of these rural infrastructures were constructed in direct cooperation with the LGAs, deploying direct labour (in other words, contracted to locals) and thus, keeping the economic impact within each zone.

A typical example is the construction (and maintenance) of the impressive stretch of the SEKONI-OKELERIN road in Ogbomoso land, linking up with the Surulere and Oko axis of the town, where Oyo state's expansive and one-of-it's-kind Cashew bed is located.

The ongoing SAKI-IBARIBA road construction/expansion is also poised, as an example, to further open Saki's industrial (ikoko-irin) and agricultural/economic (shea butter) potentials to the world. Same goes for Iseyin and Oyo towns.

The impact of the infrastructural drive of the Ajimobi-led Oyo state government on the socioeconomic development of our towns and cities is nothing short of impressive.

#AsiwajuNiWa
#AjumoseInfrastructure

The AWE-STRIKING ADO AWAYE - The HOME of INIMITABLE WONDERS!

Located 20 kilometers west of Iseyin and with Benin Republic to its other bight, the richly historic town of Adó Àwáyè in Oyo state is a pride to behold from every angle possible. The rich history aside, Ado Awaye has an abundance of naturally-occurring wonders that leave every visitor stung and struck with awe!

It all started with Kòyí in 1500 AD, Alaafin's crown prince; it was he who fortuitously founded Adó Àwáyè while departing Oyo for Òtà in the anger of losing the Alaafin throne to his younger brother, Onígbògì. On getting to this loc ation and with a crown strapped to his loins, he saw some smoke atop a hill, reached for it, and met some Dahomey escapees who eventually sought his leadership as king. He became the first Alado of Adó Àwáyè, and the rest as they say, is 'awe-inspiring' history.

There are 16 wondrous hills that stare at you from any point inside Adó Àwáyè, each with 16 domiciled gods to boot and a each with its signature (hi)story; most notable of all is the amazing stretch of the Ado-Awaye hill.

And, of the many wonders in this town and particularly on the Ado Awaye hill, one that stands out is the second only of its kind suspended lake in the world, named the Ìyàké lake, which sits gloriously atop the hill, some 2,000 meters up. For anyone who enjoys good health, it'll take about 90 minutes to firstly climb the 350 steps and then navigate the rocky outcrops and shrubs, to get to where Ìyàké lake is atop this hill.

The Ìyàké lake is simply beautiful to behold in its mythical and mystical marvel. It is about 4 metres in diameter, green in color at sight (NOT algae-induced) but clear when fetched into containers, and according to the natives, this lake is reportedly depthless/bottomless. While speaking with the present Alado of Ado Awaye, Oba Ademola Folakanmi, Makuledoye II, he cited the many mysteries of the Ìyàké lake, which include its age-long fertility powers, its bottomlessness, and the fact that it never overflows or drops beneath it bounds irrespective of the amount of rain or drought, respectively.

Swimming inside the Ìyàké lake is strictly forbidden, obviously because of its reverent depthlessness, and partly because the locals believe there's another world beneath it; in fact, foreigners and tourists are not allowed to touch the water, any attempt to defy that is at the risk of being "swallowed" whole by the lake, like that "oyinbo man that tried it and has never been seen since". This above is according to Ìyàké gospel recited and intoned eerily by the Oba and the locals. But, locals who have endured necessary rites can fetch the water for visitors who desire a scoop to enjoy its famed powers.

Just some inches away from this famous Ìyàké suspended lake, is a mini-me version of it, called the "Agbómofún'yàké lake", a similarly awesome sight to behold. It also has all the mystical 'depthless, don't touch, don't dip, don't place your foot' trappings possessed by the former, and it actually got its name from that. Agbómofún'yàké, meaning, give the child (read prey) to Ìyàké; defy and suffer same "swallow whole" consequences.
[*a suspended or hanging lake is one on a mountain, hill, cliff etc that has no obvious source. There are just two of such in the entire world, the other is the Hanging Lake Hiking Trail in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, USA]

Then, there is the Ìsàgè hill also, another striking sight as you approach the hill's peak. It fits as the horn of the hills combined, as it is seen standing with little or no visible support. Mystically, it is said that no push or shove, nor heavy wind or rain, can throw it off its stand. In short, Ìsàgè hill doesn't fall, and that has earned it a god-like status among the natives therein. To them, praying to Ìsàgè assures of instant answers.

There's also the Ìsàtá hill, a twin-set hill, seen across the monstrous Ado Awaye one. This one is where every Alado, the king, must climb and inhabit for specified days, to fully invoke and inhale the protective powers of the hill as a rite.

The topmost part of the Adó Àwáyè is a place called "Esèkan Ikú", translated the cusp of death! Ha-ha, don't be scared, but, only men abundant in the coins of gallantry and shillings of endurance can reach this particular spot oh. The view from Esèkan Ikú will embarrass one's curiosity no doubt; you gain a full view of the entire rocky outcrop of Ado Awaye at a mere glance, the 16 notable ones especially, together with the whole range of hills lying towards the Benin Republic border.

Another wonder atop Ado Awaye hill is the "Esè àwon Àgbà" (Foot prints of the elders); these massive, truly foot-like indentations engraved on the rocky spread, about 100 of them. According to the Ado Awaye gospel, these are foot prints of roving gods, elders, who ages ago, found abode atop the hill.

The Elephant Tree is another mystic on the Ado Awaye hill. The locals that serve as tour guides term it a must-see. It is said to have dropped from the sky and took this truly elephantine morph upon impact. It's a truly intriguing sight.

Other attractions on Ado-Awaye include the abyssal "Esè kan Aiyé, Esè kan Òrun" crack, a deep crack that separates one side of the mountain from the other; one dare not drop foot here. Then, the Màje kànkàn Shrine where every new king of Ado Awaye must also visit for rites; the Ìyá Onírú Lake, which is located on the other side of the mountain, it is a shallow mountain that never dries up too, and then the Ìyá-Aláró lake, another mystical lake named after a woman, a native, given to making festive sacrifices.

In all, these inimitable wonders in Adó Àwáyè, especially the ones seen atop and from the Ado Awaye hill itself, leave one awestruck for days, with an indelible mark of nature's bliss beautifully carved into the memory.

Written by: Sayo Aluko

#AsiwajuNiWa
#ThisIsOyoState
#AdoAwaye
#OyoTourism

Elevation of High Chiefs Will Complement LGs/LCDAs Development — Oyo State Government


The Oyo State Government has disclosed that the move to review the 1959 Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration predates the emergence of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, saying that the elevation of the High Chiefs to Obas with higher responsibilities will complement development at the grassroots level especially within the respective local government areas over which they superintend.

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The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr. Bimbo Kolade stated this in Ibadan on Thursday during the ongoing Ministerial briefing by Oyo state Government held at the Film Theatre of the State Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism.

Kolade, who was accompanied by his counterpart from the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Toye Arulogun, while presenting the report of the activities of his Ministry, noted that the authority of the Olubadan of Ibadan, his roles and accruable privileges as well as his office as the supreme head of Olubadan-in-Council are not in contention or doubt, explaining that the gazetted White Paper clearly protected the stool of the Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The Commissioner said that the new Obas will bring developments to their local councils, noting that their roles in communal development cannot be underestimated.

He said that the new 21 Obas cannot have the appellation of “OLU” and “LAND” to their titles, saying that these appellations have been reserved for the Olubadan of Ibadan, which is the highest and most revered Monarch in Ibadanland.

Kolade said traditional rites were done before the installation of the 21 Obas which was held last Sunday, saying that nobody could wear crown without necessary rites.

According to him, “this media briefing is to brief the press about the activities of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters. We are not here to discuss the Chieftaincy review. We respect the stools of our traditional rulers in the state and we accord them due respect and regard. Olubadan of Ibadanland is our father and we hold him in high esteem.

However, we want to advice the media aide (who is a former Chief Press Secretary to ex Governor Ladoja) to His Imperial Majesty, the Olubadan of Ibadanland not to desecrate the stool with his pedestrian, mundane and confrontational utterances disguised as the voice of His Imperial Majesty.

We revere Kabiyesi and appeal that he should caution his media aide. The idea that Olubadan’s rights and privileges would be trampled upon does not arise. He will always be the head, the supreme Oba in Ibadanland and will be respected as such.

“We want to put it on record that the Oluwo of Ibadan performed the traditional rites for the recently-installed 21 Obas.

People should get the facts right before propagating falsehood.

Nobody can wear the crown without performing the necessary rites. The popular Labosinde House that does the crowning rites can only do that of Olubadan.

So all the 21 Obas will have to wait till they become Olubadan at their respective times before they undergo the rites of Labosinde,” Kolade added.

In his contribution, Mr. Toye Arulogun said that the government will not relent in explaining its stand to the people for proper understanding, reiterating that the move has no political undertone as being insinuated in some quarters and the government is not trying to reduce the powers and authority of the Olubadan but rather elevate it to be at par with all other first class Obas with lieutenants.

Arulogun restated that the need to review the 1959 Olubadan Chieftaincy Declarations predated the reign of Oba Adetunji, noting that the review was requested for by Ibadan indigenes as well as High Chiefs and there was adequate consultations with various stakeholders including the Olubadan of Ibadanland, sons and daughters of Ibadan land, socio — cultural groups and the authors of the 118 memoranda received by the Justice Boade’s panel within the 3 months of its public sitting.

He stated further that there was no legal impediment against the installation of the 21 Obas by the State Government, noting that the governor has acted within the ambit of the law.

Arulogun said “The Oyo State government led by Senator Abiola Ajimobi had been engaging in discussions and consultations which predate the tenure of the present Olubadan as the agitation for a review of the law was well before his ascension to the throne. The Olubadan — in — Council and well meaning sons and daughters of Ibadanland requested for the review.

“It is pertinent to also state that the Olubadan’s absence at the installation did not detract from its legitimacy.

In addition, we wish to put on record that the existing constitutional provision of 5% from the local governments’ allocation will still be used for the welfare of the Obas as there is no additional cost to the state government,” Arulogun stressed.

We have on record that in 1974, the Military Government of Western States instituted a Commission of Enquiry, the recommendations of the Commission were adopted and changes effected. In 1981, there was the Justice Adenekan Ademola Commission by the then Military Government.

The recommendations of the Adenekan Ademola Commision were accepted and changes effected. In 1993, Governor Kolapo Ishola set up the Oloko Commission of Enquiry to review Chieftaincy Declarations across the state.

The recommendations were received by Former Governor Lam Adesina. Upon becoming Governor, Governor Rasheed Ladoja suspended the White Paper and abrogated the recommendations of the Oloko Commission. Governor Rasheed Ladoja later set up the Adio Commission whose recommendations did not see the light of day.

I'd reiterate, our administration is not reinventing the wheel, we have simply like others before us, embarked on a review of the Olubadan Chieftaincy Declaration in response to the yearnings of well meaning stakeholders, such as the Ibadan Elders Council, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) and eminent Sons and Daughters of Ibadanland ~ Senator Abiola Ajimobi

Ladoja can’t rise to Olubadan without accepting beaded crown’
August 28, 2017
Wale Akinselure



Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State (right) congratulates new olubadan on his coronation
The ascendancy of the Osi Olubadan of Ibadan land, Senator Rashidi Ladoja towards becoming the Olubadan of Ibadan land may be truncated if he fails to accept his beaded crown and letter of appointment.



This, according to a member of government technical committee that examined the Justice Akintunde Boade judicial review report, Dr Gbade Ojo, is contained in the Oyo state gazette on the review of the existing Olubadan of Ibadan land Chieftaincy Declaration and other related chieftaincies in Ibadan land.

Captured under annexure VII of the gazette, any concerned high chief is termed ineligible for further elevation in Olubadan Chieftaincy ranking and shall be qualified to be appointed Olubadan, if he fails to abide by stated codes of conduct.

Ojo, while featuring on a private radio programme on Monday, pointed out that, going by the new law, Ladoja will be ineligible for further elevation if he failed accept his crown and certificate as approved by Governor Abiola Ajimobi.

Ladoja was absent at Sunday’s coronation and presentation of staff of office to 21 new Oyo Obas at Mapo hall, Ibadan.

Speaking, Ojo, who is also Chief of Staff to Governor Abiola Ajimobi, said, “The law in the gazette is that for anybody out of the 11 lesser Obas to be the Olubadan, he must wear beaded crown. Whoever refuses to wear crown for any reason whatsoever, the person cannot become Olubadan. The law was not targeted at an individual but was made for the society.

“Whether or not Senator Rashidi Ladoja will become Olubadan is in his court. If he has refused now, he could have a change of mind and tomorrow ask for his crown and letter of appointment. If he gets his crown and letter of appointment, what stops him from becoming a lesser Oba because the hierarchy remains? The position of the law is that to aspire to become Olubadan, you must wear beaded crown.”


The Osi Olubadan and a former governor of the state, Senator Rashidi Ladoja
Some other code of conduct in the gazette was a warning to the new Obas against any belittling of the Olubadan of Ibadan land.

“Any Oba in Ibadanland who shows disregard or disrespect to the position or authority of the Olubadan through refusal to pay necessary customary obeisance and flouting of superior customary authority shall be investigated by a Committee of traditional chiefs and appropriate sanction will be recommended against any guilty offender. A very serious infraction of the tradition can be reported to the state governor through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.”

Furthermore, the gazette observed that there was a not very cordial relationship between the Olubadan and the Olubadan in council, and mandated that the Olubadan in council should henceforth hold its meetings in Mapo hall pending the completion of the official residence of the Olubadan at Ibadan house, Oke Aremo, Ibadan.

Meanwhile, the Seriki line has been abolished, while Ikolaba title iss the new entry point into any of the recognised Olubadan or Balogun line.

The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) has pledged unalloyed support for the recent coronation of 21 new kings of Ibadan byO Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State.
This is just as the umbrella body urged indigenes of Ibadan land, the Olubadan of Ibadan land, the state governor, the Olubadan in council, mogajis, chiefs and other stakeholders to remain calm for the resolution of some grey areas identified and not turn Ibadan into a battleground.
The organisation said 90 per cent of Ibadan indigenes supported the review.
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The President General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Yemi Soladoye who made these calls while addressing journalists at Ibadan house, Oke Aremo, Ibadan, on Tuesday, said the review had become expedient to address the long journey of ascension to the throne of Olubadan, with many dying on the waiting line without becoming Olubadan.
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Furthermore, the CCII said it was convinced that the state government’s action was in the interest of Ibadan because it did not create any new ruling houses, while every bonafide Ibadan indigene still had the right to aspire to become Olubadan.
Speaking further, Soladoye argued that the development empowered the former high chiefs to carry the authority of the Olubadan, while the new kings remained on the queue to become Olubadan and the imperial power over Ibadanland still remained with the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
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He also hinged the support of the CCII on the fact that the crowns were also granted to protect the state’s border towns and satellite towns like Ijaiye Orile, Erunmu, Lalupon from some other ethnic groups in Yorubaland.
“For avoidance of any doubt, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) confirms the change that has just taken place in Ibadan as desired, initiated, supported, applauded and appreciated by the generality of Ibadan indigenes worldwide. The CCII approved it and I can tell you that 90 per cent of Ibadan indigenes asked for the reform and support the reform based on the issues we have been having.”
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“We are in situation where before anyone becomes Olubadan, he is already more than 90 years; we are in a situation where 40 persons will start a race, by 35 years about 25 of them have dropped dead. So, it is not the typical situation where you look at what happens elsewhere. We are looking at our own peculiar situation.”
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“In the past 20 months we have lost 5 of the members of the Olubadan-In-Council including eminent personalities like Chief Omowale Kuye, Chief Femi Olaifa just to mention a few. Since the demise of Oba Yesufu Kobiowu in 1965, not many Ibadan residents can confirm seeing most of our Olubadans at public functions except if they visited the palace.”
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The CCII identified some grey areas to be addressed to include whether the elevation of some Baales to an Oba amounted to the Baale being superior over the Mogajis (family warlords), and whether the gazette could be interpreted as meaning that those on the Olubadan line must be a crown wearing Oba for them to gain further promotion.
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He said the court could also help in the interpretation of gazette, which he said, was not an end in itself.
Describing the Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Saliu Adetunji as a dynamic and progressive Oba, Soladoye noted that the CCII would provide further clarity and enlightenment on the matter.
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“The CCII is quite aware of the fact that some grey areas still exist in the reform especially as it affects the Mogajis and the Warlords Families. The CCII is deeply looking into this with deep concern and interest. The CCII hereby salute the innovation in the Olubadan institution, though caution that saner counsels should prevail and be exercised to enable the matters in court to be rested to conclusion whilst Ibadanland should not be turned into a battle ground.”
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“CCII was involved right from when the judicial review panel was created. CCII was part of it to create reform. The court will give interpretation to that gazette. The areas that we do think is part, we will create discussion and dialogue. Gazette is not an end in itself, issues arise and they perfect them.”
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“We wish to confirm that our Kabiyesi is a dynamic and progressive Oba who would naturally due to his age and experience of life play safe in his response to any change agenda with insufficient clarity and enlightenment. The CCII takes responsibility for this gap.”
“The promotion of any of the new Obas to the stool of Olubadan of Ibadanland automatically ends that obaship in his compound until they have another Mogaji who may be lucky to ascend the position of Olubadan-In-Council in distant future,” Soladoye said.
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On the remuneration for the new kings, CCII posited that the new kings were only dignified with their status and prestige while their salary equivalent of being a second class Oba remained.
He however pointed to some politicization of the matter owing to some persona involved and the peculiarities of the state.
Consequently, the CCII urged all stakeholders to shun vested interests and sentiments for Ibadan to achieve some of its desires like being a state and remaining peaceful.
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“The CCII cannot pretend to be unaware of some political colouration that crept into this progressive change at the eve of implementation but suffice to say that for a city where Politics and Public Service are the two largest industries, the tension that accompanied the change is not unexpected. Our current Otun Olubadan was a member of the upper chambers (Senate), current Balogun of Ibadan was a member of the Lower chambers (Federal House of Representatives), the current Osi Olubadan was in the Senate and a former Governor while the current Aare of Ibadan was in the Senate and now the sitting Governor of Oyo State. In a city of politicians therefore, there will always be the tendency to politicize every issue.”

Elevation of Olubadan and coronation of new Obas in Ibadan - THE TELLING FACTS | Sayo Aluko

Ibadan is the most populous Yoruba city, the culture capital of the Southwest. It has 11 local government councils with over 160 recognizable regions. It has sought a "State status" for many years. But, until today it had only one Oba. A big disservice to the throne, heritage, history and the people of Ibadan. An unarguable disservice.

Our last Olubadan, Oba Samuel Odulana Odugade 1, was conferred a CFR status. At the conferment, he was accompanied by chiefs. Other Oba's were accompanied by "lower-ranking" Obas from their domain.

Abeokuta has 4 or more Obas. Eko has many. Ijebu has several. Ife has about 4. Iwo has about 4. The Awujale is the paramount ruler of Ijebu land. The Oluwo is the paramount for Iwo land. The Alake is paramount for Abeokuta. The Ooni is paramount for Ife.

These are smaller towns than Ibadan with less population and lower numbers of LGs. The Olubadan deserves to have "lesser" Obas under him.

And, apart from its befitting stance, any Ibadan indigene who needs to be schooled on the importance and impact of regional and subregional Obas towards socioeconomic advancement and communal accord cum efficiency, must be wilfully ignorant.

It is clear as day that this move even seems already belated and couldn't have come at a better time. The efforts channeled into rebuilding and modernising Ibadan would amount to a futuristic futility if we don't strengthen and reposition our traditional institutions, in this case, the Obaship. What's the essence of building infrastructure without a reticulated, strong and befitting communal institution to boot? Well, your guess is as good as mine. I'll deploy a Yoruba proverb as an allegory here - Omo (read Ìlú) táà'kó, láá kó ilé táa kó tà!

By this move, Ibadan has one Olubadan that becomes the Imperial majesty, 11 senior ranking Obas and another 11 Baales that now wear beads.

The ascension line to the Olubadan remains unchanged. The Otun and Osi line continue in the historical path to Oba.

The demand for this was by 10 of the 11 high chiefs, the Baales, and other submissions to a Judicial Commission of Inquiry constituted by the Governor of Oyo State, who by law has the power to create such. Notably, past Governors have also attempted this move, but this is the time it's coming to fruition.

The move is supported by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Ibadan Elders forum and other Ibadan cultural associations.

It's a new royal dawn in Ibadan, let's wear our robes and celebrate, while we brace ourselves for the positive impact that will be driven by this new, but long-overdue wave.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Professor Adeniyi Olowofela yesterday hinted that the management and unions of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso  have acceded to call made by the two owner states to be audited as a way to resolve the limbering imbroglio rocking the institution. 

Speaking during a radio program held on a private radio station in Ibadan, Prof. Olowofela disclosed that KPMG is billed to complete the audit of LAUTECH not later than Friday, August 25, 2017.

According to him, activities are in top gear to ensure the school’s protracted crises are resolved, assuring that the report by the auditing firm will fast track the process to surmount the impending crises rocking the institution.

Olowofela also clarified that the state government’s establishment of Ibadan Technical University (Tech-U) is not to make it as preference over the LAUTECH. He noted that Tech U total school payment package stands at about N900, 000 saying that, while the University is built for people that have capacity to pay, there are modalities to resolve soon the crisis of LAUTECH whose tuition fee is affordable.

Also, speaking on some reasons for the protracted crisis, the Commissioner said there are some intricacies involved in the matter of LAUTECH.

According to him, Osun State, which is a co-owner state to Oyo State has a university which is self-financing. “The position of Osun State government was that if Osun State university that was established 12 years ago can be self-financing, LAUTECH that has been established for twenty years plus must be self-financing as well especially now that there’s dwindling allocation to states from federal government”, he said.

Olowofela added that, to show the seriousness of both state governments towards the institution, the two state governments in January, 2017 committed N292 million each to solve the immediate problem of the school while the state governments later jointly approved the audit of the school by KPMG.

He also added that, between 2011 and 2017, the Oyo State government has single handedly spent 10.2 billion on LAUTECH University, N8.3 billion on LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso and N3.7 billion on LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Osogbo in Osun State.

Olowofela noted that if the state government is not serious about issue of LAUTECH, it would not have spent a whopping N22 billion on the institution.

Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, has appointed his Deputy, Chief Moses Adeyemo; Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Olalekan Alli, Chief Imam of Ibadan, Sheik Abduganiyu Abubakar and 236 others as Justices of the Peace.



The appointees were inaugurated by the governor, who was represented by his deputy, at the House of Chiefs, Parliament Building, Secretariat, Ibadan, on Thursday.



Among those sworn in as JPs were the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Gbade Ojo; Special Adviser, Communication and Strategy, Mr. Yomi Layinka; Special Adviser, Due Process, Mrs. Rose Oyedele, as well as other top officials of the government.



Also on the list were the State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Mr. Benjamin Akanmu; a former Director of the Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan, Prof. Dele Layiwola, among other eminent members of the society.



In his speech read by the deputy governor, Ajimobi said that the new appointees were carefully selected, based on their pedigree, to assist the government in the dispensation of justice and sustenance of peace and harmony across the state.



A retired high court judge, Justice Akintunde Boade, administered the oath of office on the deputy governor, who in turn swore in all others on the JP list.



The governor implored the JPs to use their new position to promote peace and deliver justice in their jurisdictions without fear or favour, as well as to suppress riots and affray, disperse all disorderly and tumultuous assemblage.



Ajimobi said, “As we all know that justice is the bedrock of democracy, our administration will leave no stone unturned to see that justice is not only done, but seen to be manifestly done at all times. The JPs are to complement the efforts of the judiciary to promote peace and harmony in the state.



“Towards this end, an enabling environment is being made available for the judiciary to discharge its duties without fear of favour.



“Apart from the recent appointment of some magistrates and senior magistrates to the lower bench of the state judiciary, Grade `A’ Customary Court presidents were also established for the first time in the state.



“Let it also be known that appointment of more judges to the state High Court and the Customary Court of Appeal is ongoing and the matter is now before the National Judicial Council.’’



The governor explained that the JPs were judicial officers, who were vested with the powers, rights and duties of a magistrate, while he emphasized that their appointment would not attract remunerations.



Ajimobi urged them to see their appointment as a great responsibility towards the promotion of peace, rule of law and good governance in their communities.



In his remarks, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Seun Abimbola, said that the JPs were volunteers who took up the appointment in order to be associated with the reign of peace in the community.

Abimbola stated they were ambassadors of peace at the grassroots and were expected to familiarize themselves with their immediate neighbourhood to settle rifts, foster unity and help resolve conflicts using their competences.













Communication Team
Governor's Office
Ibadan

AJIMOBI MOVES TO DECONGEST PRISONS, COURTS

As part of ongoing spirited efforts to decongest the prisons, Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, has assented to the community service punishment law, in which convicts will undertake hours of community service for minor offences, instead of prison terms.

Similarly, the governor has advocated the promotion and adoption of alternative dispute resolution to reduce what he called the unacceptable high number of cases awaiting trial before the courts.

The governor bared his mind during a visit to the High Court complex, headquarters of the state judiciary, where he met with the Chief Judge, Justice Munta Abimbola, in company with the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Seun Abimbola, in Ibadan.
Expressing concern over the incidence of prison congestion across the country, where, he said, a majority of inmates were awaiting trial suspects, the governor restated the need for executive-judiciary synergy to stem the tide.

Ajimobi said, “I have observed the continuing congestion of our courts with lawsuits in spite of various efforts at decongesting same. For this reason, I have directed the AG to work with the CJ to design a structure that will ensure that the issue is finally laid to rest.
“I have also directed the AG to ensure the passage of a law to establish the Oyo State Multi Door Court House as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism for easier access to justice and decongestion of dockets (cases for trial).

“Similarly I have assented to the Community Service Law to ensure alternative sentencing regime is available in Oyo state for offenders in minor cases. This is part of our ongoing efforts to decongest the prisons. “

Notwithstanding the principle of separation of powers, the governor called on the judiciary to sustain its support for and cooperation with the executive arm of government for quick administration of justice.
As the third arm of the government, the governor said that the judiciary remained a veritable partner in the quest by his administration to build a new and modern Oyo state where justice was not delayed or miscarried.

Since coming on board, Ajimobi said that his administration had ensured that the state’s judiciary ranked not only high but first among equals in the administration of justice index and excellence of delivery by creating a conducive working atmosphere for the staff.

He pledged his continued support for the judiciary, which, he said, remained the last and only hope of the common man.
In his response, the CJ expressed appreciation for what he called the unalloyed support of the Ajimobi-led executive to the state judiciary, while he appealed for the gazetting of the newly-assented law on the administration of criminal justice.

Commending the governor for the initiative, he said he was confident that the new law would accelerate the judicial process.
Abimbola solicited the repositioning of the state Judicial Service Commission, urging the governor to provide operational vehicles, sitting allowances, among other welfare packages to enhance the performance of the members.
Under his leadership as CJ, Abimbola said that the judiciary achieved the construction and renovation of court buildings and structures, adding that magistrates and other cadres of staff were also promoted.

Already, he said that there were centers in the state serving as community service centers for the furtherance of the community service punishment law, which he said was fashioned after the Criminal Justice Act at the national level.
The CJ said, “I urge your excellency to direct the publication of the law in the official Gazette for its implementation.
“We consider this visit very important and its aftermath will undoubtedly affect the administration of justice of this great state. The judiciary under my leadership will continue to evolve strategies and partnership with the government to enhance dispensation of justice.”

Governor Abiola Ajimobi-led Oyo State Government on Wednesday said that it has disbursed over N13bn to settle the average of about 5months salaries owed local government workers and primary school teachers as well as their pensioners in the state.

The State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr. Bimbo Kolade, who disclosed this in Ibadan, stated that the N13,739,592,266.24 released to the Ministry from the office of the State’s Accountant General comprised of the April, May and June allocations for Local Governments in the state and a share from Paris Club Re-fund.

Kolade said that N13,739,592,266.24bn was inclusive of SUBEB funds, explaining that N3,088,014,271.45bn was released for April, N3,396,208,585.99 for May and N5,255,369,408.80bn for June while N2bn was released for Local government workers and pensioners’ welfare by Governor Abiola Ajimobi from the refunded second tranche N7.9 Paris Club fund.

The Commissioner charged all Caretaker Chairmen to be prudent with the fund, expressing optimism that outstanding salaries of some 15 Council areas put at an average of 2months will be offset.

He cautioned the Caretaker Chairmen against over bloated staff strength which he said always make it difficult for them to offset their wage bills promptly, urging that they should limit their ad-hoc staff to only those they can afford to pay their bills as at when due.

Oyo Rolls Out Plan For Handling Medical WasteBy InsideOyo on August 16, 2017@@insideoyo1

AS part of ongoing reforms in Oyo State’s waste management activities, the government has unveiled its new plan to handle waste under the public private partnership it has entered into with West African NRG.

Under the new plan, according to the Oyo State Commissioner for Environment, Chief Isaac Ishola, the management of medical waste will take on a “specialised process” and that all hospitals in the state will be involved in the new plan.

“Medical waste is a special kind of waste. What people have been doing is mingling it together with every kind of waste,” the commissioner said.

“We have identified all the hospitals in Oyo State, it is part of the enumeration we have completed now.”

He said federal hospitals had also been included because “waste generation is a local matter.”

“Already, we have written the stakeholders. We want to have a meeting with them.

“What the law says is that medical waste should not be lumped together because the disposal is not the same. It requires specialised disposal system.”

He said actions in line with government’s latest position on medical waste would commence in the coming weeks.

Oyo State government has issued two-week ultimatum to places of worship including churches and mosques and owners of clubs, bars and restaurants to remove their external speakers.

Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Chief Isaac Ishola who issued this ultimatum on Tuesday during a inter-ministerial press briefing also disclosed that no fewer than 372 environmental offenders have been prosecuted in the last one year.


Ishola flanked with his Information, Culture and Tourism counterpart and other aides of the governor said the ultimatum became necessary due to complaints and distress calls by residents of the state over noise pollution.

He said that it has been observed that most of the complaints on noise pollution are from places of worship, as he warned that people should not use their religious activities to disturb others.

“We are giving churches and mosques with externals speakers two weeks to remove them. They have been given 2 weeks to remove them.

“You don’t use religion to disturb others. I am a christian, if I can do that for christian…


“Our laws doe not permit that.

He, however, said that his ministry has arrested and prosecuted no fewer than 372 environmental offenders in the last one year.

“The ministry has two mobile courts that sit during the day, we have arranged that magistrate courts should also try environmental offenders.

Ishola while speaking further declared that traders at the Temidire plank market were asked to vacate the premises for another location solely for environmental hazard, noise pollution, lack of drainage and its closeness to the main road.


“The Temidire Planks market, sawmills suppose to be at the outskirts of the town. You are aware of Temidire market, it was closed due to some reasons. Firstly environmental hazard, then noise pollution, thirdly, there is no drainage in the market, if there is heavy rain, the place will be flooded and fortly, the market is very close to the road”.

As we are set to witness the inauguration of the Oyo State Security Trust Fund and relaunch of "Operation Burst" tomorrow, it is quite timely to celebrate another insightful move by the incumbent government to secure us all even better.

In a drive to build a modern Oyo state and make it not just secure, but, even smartly secure, the Ajimobi-led administration commissioned the SAFE CITY PROJECT some weeks ago.

This #SafeCityProject will we see to the installation of CCTV cameras linked to a control centre at strategic locations in Oyo state, to further complement the efforts of the existent security apparatus that has kept the state relatively safe so far.

........and that's another unprecedented FIRST!

#AsiwajuNiWa
#AjumoseSecurity
#ModernOyoState

Oyo State Government To Install CCTV Cameras Across The State.NEWS BY QUICKSILVER
The Oyo State government will install close circuit television (CCTV) cameras in strategic locations across the state. The move, Governor Ajimobi said, would place Oyo among the league of states and communities under the “safe city project”.

Ajimobi highlighted this, when he hosted the United States (U.S) Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Stuart Symington. Addressing the ambassador and his entourage, Ajimobi said the state, hitherto known for violence and brigandage, changed its course when his administration came in in 2011.

He pledged to sustain the peace. According to him, CCTV cameras will be installed at strategic locations known to be red spots or crisis-prone for close monitoring of the state. Security operatives, Ajimobi said, would have direct link to the control base of the cameras.

The governor said his administration’s efforts at investing in the security and safety of the state was based on its understanding that they aid development. On flooding, he said the intervention and assistance Oyo State got from the World Bank on 2011 flood helped the government in installing early flood warning signals which have helped prevent a recurrence.

He said: “We came in 2011 and the state was regarded as an unsafe place. This made us come up with our hierarchy of development, drawing from man’s hierarchy of needs. “We identified that the job of a government is, firstly, security and safety. The approach we adopted has yielded results and transformed Oyo to be known as one of the safest states in the country.

“Oyo has joined the comity of states in the Safe City Project where technology is deployed to combat crime and ensure safety and security. “We shall install CCTV cameras in red spot and crisis-prone areas across the state to alert security operatives at the central control unit for prompt response. This measure will help our state more secure and peaceful.”

Symington said: “My visit to Oyo State is not just a courtesy call but a call for vision and wisdom. My goal is to look at Nigeria from every and a different point. “The reason for Nigeria’s greatness is because of its togetherness. It is a very great nation. We will like to see how the people of this great nation and the people of America can work together to build a better future for the Pacesetter State.”

Assures of prudent management of endowment fund.

Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has disclosed that the recently introduced health insurance scheme is compulsory for all residents of the state, assuring that funds realized from the N50bn endowment will be judiciously utilized and well accounted for in line with the administration’s tradition of prudence, transparency and accountability.

The governor said that the N650 month subscription fee for the health insurance will be deducted from the salaries of workers in the state, stressing that the workers of state’s contractors will also be mandated to subscribe to the scheme.

Governor Ajimobi made these disclosures on Thursday at the official launch of the N50 billion HealthCare Endowment Fund, which attracted donations and pledges from International organisations, private sectors, government functionaries, traditional rulers and eminent personalities, for the restoration and transformation of government hospitals and health centres in the state held at the International Conference Centre, UI, Ibadan.

He said “the recently introduced Health Care Insurance Scheme is a move in this direction. Our target is the active participation of all and sundry in the development, management and funding of Health Care Services. While I heartily appreciate the high level of subscription already recorded, I wish to enjoin all those who are yet to register to go forth now to enjoin the benefits.”



The governor explained that there are growing examples in Nigeria where private sector involvement in healthcare delivery is helping in no small measure to complement Government’s efforts in the provision of efficient and sustainable healthcare services, noting that as individuals and corporate bodies, everyone should give back to the system part of what the system has given to us. Governor Ajimobi stated that private sector involvement in healthcare dates back to 1883 when compulsory sickness insurance was introduced in Germany for some categories of workers.

Pointing out that this marked the establishment of the first model of mandatory healthcare insurance in the Western world.

According to him, “Our administration has also realized the fact that we cannot fund the health sector alone without the active support of, and assistance from, the private sector and corporate bodies. We must, therefore, do all within our capacity to promote and achieve healthy living in our State.

“The endowment fund will no doubt, take care of most of the issues which have arisen from the dearth of fund owing to the dwindling resources of Government. I therefore charge you all to join us in our avowed commitment to revolutionize the health sector for enhanced service delivery as our administration has identified and treated health as one of the cardinal sectors,” he added.

Governor Ajimobi, who charged everybody to take the issue of their health seriously with regular check-ups, stated that the government has constituted a Board of Trustees consisting of eminent personalities and people of high moral standing to manage the fund, saying “let me assure you all that the Fund we are endowing today will be judiciously utilized and well accounted for in line with our administration’s tradition of prudence, transparency and accountability. As such, you are all assured of prudent application of the fund.”

In his address, the Chief Launcher at the Endowment Fund, Dr Paul Abolo said that health should not a humanitarian issue nor philanthropic, stating that it should be seen as the responsibilities of all to provide quality health care delivery.

The State Commissioner for Health, promised that the fund realized from the endowment fund will be used for equip the state hospitals, assuring that the Primary Health Centre in the state will be upgraded to international standard in the next 6months.

In his own speech, the Consultant on the endowment fund and Managing Director of HealthCare Communications noted that the concept of an endowment fund is international, stating that 30/40% of investment in Health comes from high networth individuals.

The Oyo state government has expressed its commitment to achieve more than 50% exclusive Breastfeeding by nursing mothers by the end of year 2017, saying that series of sensitization activities will be done to commemorate the 2017 World Breastfeeding week in the state.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Azeez Adeduntan said the 50%, which is in line with the provision of the National Strategic plan on Nutrition, will be achieved base on the concerted efforts by the Oyo State Government to sensitise Nursing mothers on the importance of Breastfeeding.

According to him “a sensitization programme to enlighten Nursing Mothers on the benefits of Breastfeeding will hold at the Oni and Sons hospital on Wednesday 2nd of August, 2017, Adeoyo hospital Yemetu on Friday 4th of August 2017 while the sensitization train will move to Atiba and Oyo West on Monday 7th of August, 2017.

Dr Azeez Adeduntan stated these at the weekend in Ibadan while speaking on the forthcoming 2017 World Breastfeeding week, a global celebration to promote children from ages 0-6 months to be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of life, regretting that number of pregnant women lost their babies ignorantly through the use of unapproved herbal concoction. Predominantly giving their children Water

He explained that the exclusive Breastfeeding in the first six months of life and the introduction of complementary diet till the first two years of life, play a vital role in the development of a child adding “Breast milk is a complete diet given to women by God and any baby that feeds on it will not likely get sick.

The Commissioner noted that less than 30 percent of the Mothers in the State engaged in the exclusive Breastfeeding while over 70 per cent do not practice exclusive Breast feeding for their new born babies in the first six months of life.

He however advised Mothers in the state to embrace the practice of exclusive breastfeeding, saying that this will serve as a defense for babies against any diseases and such child will be mentally sound and grow well.

--

'Toye Arulogun
Hon Commissioner,
Min.of Info., Culture & Tourism,
Oyo State Government

It is no longer news that many firsts have been recorded by the Oyo State Governor, Sen. Abiola Ajimobi. The governor was the first to win a second ticket, first civilian governor to construct a flyover, first governor to pay 13th month salary for workers three times consecutively, the first governor to introduce free transportation for workers and students, amongst others.

Another first recently recorded by the governor is the introduction of Health Insurance, the first of its kind by any state government in the country. The governor launched the Oyo State Health Insurance on May 25th, 2017.

The Oyo State Health Insurance scheme (OYSHIS) is another milestone in the history of health sector in the State. The Scheme, which is an affordable and accessible health benefit plan for all citizens of the State, was signed into law by Governor Ajimobi on 1st December, 2016. This scheme is expected to define and enforce the minimum standard of health care that should be available to every citizen of the State without the need for payment at the point of accessing care when in health strikes.

Also, it is to assure quality of health care, regulation of standards, choice and the enthronement of the care seeker as king in the health care delivery system. The Agency also regulates care providers (in-conjunction with other regulations) that are accredited to provide service under the Scheme.

Health Insurance is a system of advance financing of health expenditure through contributions, premiums or taxes paid into a common pool to pay for all or part of health services specified by a policy or plan.
It is of interest to note that the OYSHIS cost of enrolment is a paltry sum of N200 for registration and the monthly premium is N650 for the standard plan while pregnant women and children under the age of 5 would access it free of charge with government bearing the payable premium.

The affordability, accessibility and quality health care the scheme will offer make it imperative for all and sundry to key into it. Policies/programmes of government need the support of all to succeed. In essence, the success of the health insurance in Oyo State is for all the citizens to participate and be part of it.

Also, while commending the governor for this initiative that is expected to benefit all cadres of people in the society, I join hands with him to appeal to the handlers of this scheme to put in their best to ensure its success and become a model for other state governments.
Cosmas ‘Lekan Oni
Secretariat, Ibadan.

Ajimobi calls for Diaspora, Africa cooperationCULTURE & TOURISM BY QUICKSILVER
Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has called on Africans in Diaspora, especially in the Caribbeans, to connect with Africa for cooperation and development in various spheres of human endeavour in a win – win relationship highlighting Trade, Culture, Spiritual pilgrimage and Tourism as the key areas of collaboration.

Governor Ajimobi said this in his address titled Africa and Its Diaspora: Beyond Cultural Cooperation and Intellectual Dialogues delivered at the Emancipation Festival Forum on Africa and Its Diaspora which was held at Maraval, Trinidad & Tobago on Monday, noting that his administration is willing to offer the necessary incentives that will make every piece of investment in the state worthwhile and profitable.

He stated that the state had established a $2 billion, 4,000-hectares Free Trade Zone (Oyo FTZ) to kick start industrial revolution with positive response from over 157 international companies and some of them have started the construction of multi million dollar industries, explaining that to complement this effort, the state is building an industrial park with a capacity to hold a thousand industries.

The governor, who was represented by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Toye Arulogun, observed that what African governments needed to do is to invite the participation of Africans in Diaspora in the process of developing the continent, explaining that the present administration led by President Muhammadu Buhari has shown great will in tackling corruption and improving the infrastructural base of the country.


Jamaican Ace cricketer with many world records, Mr. Brian Lara, Former Head of Ecowas, Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas, Trinidad and Tobago Minister for Trade and Industry, Senator the Hon. Paula Gopee-Scoon, Chair, Emancipation Support Committee of Trinidad and Tobago, Baba Khafra Kambon and the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Toye Arulogun at the Emancipation Festival Forum on Africa and Its Diaspora which was held at Maraval, Trinidad & Tobago on Monday. PIC: Mininfo
He pointed out that efforts have also been put into place to deepen democracy through institutional empowerments, stating that significant gains have been made in the fight against corruption and infrastructural modernization.

According to Ajimobi, “We recognize that it may take time and enormous financial capital to develop Africa to the level the West has attained, and that is why we are calling on you to lend a hand. We encourage you to visit Nigeria, and particularly Oyo State. We need you to see what we are doing and the potentials we have, and then think through how your resources, your expertise, and your knowledge can benefit us.

“We need investment in heavy and light manufacturing to create jobs for our mass of unemployed youths. We request your partnership in developing our agricultural and agro allied sectors and our vast cultural industry. As a government, we are willing to offer the necessary incentives that will make every piece of investment worthwhile and profitable.

“Africa clamours for more of the religious visits to our cultural sites due to their capacity to boost the promising tourist trade. We encourage continuous intellectual dialogues between Africa and its Diaspora to strengthen existing ties. But beyond all these, we seek the resolute involvement of the Diaspora in efforts to banish hunger, sickness, and homelessness from our own world through direct investments,” Governor Ajimobi stressed.

The governor expatiated that the present administration in Oyo State is creating an industrial and technology hub that will serve the entire West Africa sub-region in no distant future, saying that the government’s different initiatives are part of a strategic development plan meant to create new jobs and improve the infrastructural base of the state.

He noted that there are structures in Oyo state that are currently associated with the Diaspora, highlighting the Yoruba Language Centre at the University of Ibadan, the Ifa Heritage School, Oyo, the Ofungunda Ifa Learning Centre at Oyo, and the newly established Ifa Heritage University also at Oyo as examples of institutions that people of African descent visit on regular basis to build their capacities in Yoruba language and cultural heritage.



Governor Ajimobi said, “Over the years we have also been developing measures to improve on the existing cultural relationship that our state had established with Diaspora communities, especially those in South America and the Caribbeans. For instance, we are currently working with the Brazilian Embassy in Nigeria to develop Oyo State into a tourism hub for Brazilians and other Diasporians, as we are not oblivious of the spiritual ties that practitioners of Candomble or the Orisha Religion maintain with ancestral homes like Oyo and Ile-Ife among other Yoruba towns.

“We are also preoccupied with developing Sango and Oranyan festivals in Oyo into international events, even as we seek private sector involvement in building hotels and other infrastructure that will support leisure and enhance the tourism potentials of other sites of cultural and spiritual importance,” he added.

Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has called on Africans in Diaspora especially in the Caribbeans to connect with Africa for cooperation and development in various spheres of human endeavour in a win — win relationship highlighting Trade, Culture, Spiritual pilgrimage and Tourism as the key areas of collaboration.
Governor Ajimobi said this in his address titled Africa and Its Diaspora: Beyond Cultural Cooperation and Intellectual Dialogues delivered at the Emancipation Festival Forum on Africa and Its Diaspora which was held at Maraval, Trinidad & Tobago on Monday, noting that his administration is willing to offer the necessary incentives that will make every piece of investment in the state worthwhile and profitable.
He stated that the state had established a $2 billion, 4,000-hectares Free Trade Zone (Oyo FTZ) to kick start industrial revolution with positive response from over 157 international companies and some of them have started the construction of multi million dollar industries, explaining that to complement this effort, the state is building an industrial park with a capacity to hold a thousand industries.

The governor, who was represented by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Toye Arulogun, observed that what African governments needed to do is to invite the participation of Africans in Diaspora in the process of developing the continent, explaining that the present administration led by President Muhammadu Buhari has shown great will in tackling corruption and improving the infrastructural base of the country.
He pointed out that efforts have also been put into place to deepen democracy through institutional empowerments, stating that significant gains have been made in the fight against corruption and infrastructural modernization.
According to Ajimobi, “We recognize that it may take time and enormous financial capital to develop Africa to the level the West has attained, and that is why we are calling on you to lend a hand. We encourage you to visit Nigeria, and particularly Oyo State. We need you to see what we are doing and the potentials we have, and then think through how your resources, your expertise, and your knowledge can benefit us.

“We need investment in heavy and light manufacturing to create jobs for our mass of unemployed youths. We request your partnership in developing our agricultural and agro allied sectors and our vast cultural industry. As a government, we are willing to offer the necessary incentives that will make every piece of investment worthwhile and profitable.
“Africa clamours for more of the religious visits to our cultural sites due to their capacity to boost the promising tourist trade. We encourage continuous intellectual dialogues between Africa and its Diaspora to strengthen existing ties. But beyond all these, we seek the resolute involvement of the Diaspora in efforts to banish hunger, sickness, and homelessness from our own world through direct investments,” Governor Ajimobi stressed.
The governor expatiated that the present administration in Oyo State is creating an industrial and technology hub that will serve the entire West Africa sub-region in no distant future, saying that the government’s different initiatives are part of a strategic development plan meant to create new jobs and improve the infrastructural base of the state.
He noted that there are structures in Oyo state that are currently associated with the Diaspora, highlighting the Yoruba Language Centre at the University of Ibadan, the Ifa Heritage School, Oyo, the Ofungunda Ifa Learning Centre at Oyo, and the newly established Ifa Heritage University also at Oyo as examples of institutions that people of African descent visit on regular basis to build their capacities in Yoruba language and cultural heritage.
Governor Ajimobi said, “Over the years we have also been developing measures to improve on the existing cultural relationship that our state had established with Diaspora communities, especially those in South America and the Caribbeans. For instance, we are currently working with the Brazilian Embassy in Nigeria to develop Oyo State into a tourism hub for Brazilians and other Diasporians, as we are not oblivious of the spiritual ties that practitioners of Candomble or the Orisha Religion maintain with ancestral homes like Oyo and Ile-Ife among other Yoruba towns.
“We are also preoccupied with developing Sango and Oranyan festivals in Oyo into international events, even as we seek private sector involvement in building hotels and other infrastructure that will support leisure and enhance the tourism potentials of other sites of cultural and spiritual importance,” he added.

Oyo state government to launch Security Trust Fund; relaunch Joint Patrol Team [Operation Burst]NEWS BY QUICKSILVER
The Oyo State Government has said that the reconstituted board of trustees of its security trust fund, Oyo State Security Trust Fund (OYSSTF), will be inaugurated on Friday.

The government also disclosed that its re-branded joint patrol team, Operation Burst, will be re-launched to stem the menace of criminal activities in some areas of the state, noting that 20 vans will be distributed to the security outfit to aid their effectiveness and efficiency.

The Executive Secretary of the OYSSTF, Mr. Femi Oyedipe said on Monday that the board to be inaugurated by Governor Abiola Ajimobi at the Executive Chambers is headed by the Deputy Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Mr. Adebayo Adelabu.

Oyedipe said other members of the board are Dr Adesola Adeduntan, Engr. Femi Odumabo, Dr Falil Abina, Chief Kola Daisi, Mr Vickram Gursahaney and Dr Azeez Adeduntan, the state Commissioner for Health.

He said that the Operation Burst, which comprises of all the security outfits in the State, is expected to complement the efforts of the police in curbing crimes, adding that the officers of the joint patrol team have been mandated to operate in line with the best practices and in accordance with tenets of their security outfits.

The OYSSTF scribe sated that there will be restriction of vehicular movements at the venue of the re-launch of operation, Idi Arere area of the state, explaining that Mapo to Idi Arere and Bode to Idi Arere will be blocked while those coming from Popoyemoja and Kudeti should find alternative routes between the hours of 8am and 1pm.

He said “We want to passionately appeal to the people State to bear with us as there will be no road at the venue of the re-launch at Idi Arere. The governor has directed that the programme should be held at the crisis prone area, hence our decision to pick Idi Arere. Roads around the area will be blocked and we enjoin our people to make use of the alternative routes.

“The rebranded operation burst will complement the efforts of other security outfits in the state to curb crime. Our foundation for development is peace and security and we are not ready to negate our responsibilities to protect lives and properties,” Oyedipe stressed.