Author: Taiwo Ismael

An evening of Service of Songs and Christian -Wake was held in honour of the late Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, as part of the funeral arrangements for the late Governor.

The service was held at St. Andrew’s Cathedral Church, Imola Street, Owo on Thursday. Dignitaries from across the country attended the event.

The Bishop of Owo Anglican Diocese, Rt. Rev Stephen Fagbemi paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Governor during the service.

He described the late Akeredolu not only as a governor but also as a visionary leader who was passionate about the things of God.

The Bishop emphasised that Akeredolu has left a void that will be difficult to fill in the Diocese, the state, and the nation at large. He prayed to God to grant the family the strength to bear the loss.

In his brief Exhortation, Most Reverend Simeon Borokini, the Anglican Bishop of Akure Diocese and Archbishop of Ondo Ecclesiastical Province said Akeredolu served the people of the state well.

He urged everyone to always do good in whatever position they occupy.

The late Governor’s younger brother, Prof. Wole Akeredolu expressed gratitude on behalf of the family.

He thanked everyone for their support and love for the late Akeredolu.

Prof. Akeredolu mentioned that the various testimonies and tributes about Akeredolu have consoled their hearts and reaffirmed that their Patriarch lived a life of significance and made a positive impact on society.

The Service of Songs was attended by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Deputy Governor, Mr. Adelami Olayide; Deputy Governor of Kogi State; Salifu Joel Oyibo, Minister of State for Youth Development Olawande Ayodele; Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Hellen Ogunwumiju; other justices of the Court of Appeal, Chairman of the APC in the state Engr. Ade Adetimehin; Speaker of Ondo State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji; Chief Judge Justice Olusegun Odusola; Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire; other senators, former PDP governorship candidate in the state Mr. Eyitayo Jegede SAN, among others.

Also present were the wife of the former Governor of Ekiti State, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, former Minister, Prince Ademola Adegoroye; members of the House of Representatives; APC governorship hopeful, Wale Akinterinwa; the leadership and members of the Christian Association of Nigeria, and others.

“First, we are introducing a three-day work week for Levels 1-13 civil servants. This measure aims to provide relief and flexibility reflecting our commitment to the workforce’s well-being,” Mr Sanwo-Olu said.

Mr Sanwo-Olu stated this in a recap of his media chat with journalists earlier on Thursday, posted on his X account.

The governor noted that to address rising food prices, “we will be opening Sunday markets across 42 identified markets across the state to sell food items at really affordable rates.”

He added, “Lagosians will be able to buy commodities, not above the N25,000 threshold. We aim to serve over 500,000 Lagosians with essential food items at rates that defy inflation.”

According to Mr Sanwo-Olu, four more food hubs are under construction, and seven other locations in other LGAs have also been identified for more food hubs to be developed.

The governor’s announcement followed several protests over the rising cost of food.

Mr Sanwo-Olu, a protégé of President Bola Tinubu, has backed the Nigerian ruler’s harsh economic policies.

Though increment in prices of food predated Mr Tinubu’s government, his sudden fuel subsidy removal and floating of the naira have seen petrol price jump from N145 to N630, shooting food prices up as the naira continue its freefall against the dollar, trading for N1,825 against a dollar on Tuesday.

A recent market survey showed that food prices have increased by over 100 per cent since Mr Tinubu assumed office last year.

Spiking economic inflation, estimated to be around 29.9 by the National Bureau of Statistics, has driven food prices high astronomically in recent times, forcing Nigerians to hit the streets in protests in Oyo, Niger, Osun, Kano and Lagos, Mr Tinubu’s home state.

Mr Tinubu, in response to public outcry on the rising cost of food driven by skyrocketing inflation in the country, had directed the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to release about 42,000 metric tonnes of grain, including maize, millet and garri.

He also charged National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, the State Security Service and the police to go after food hoarders.

The International Monetary Fund, in a summary of its assessment of Nigeria’s economy, lauded Mr Tinubu’s government for structural reforms, scrapping fuel subsidies and floating the naira.

The IMF also said Mr Tinubu’s release of “cereals from the grain reserve, provided subsidised fertilizer to farmers,” amongst other measures “to ease the impact of rapidly rising inflation on living conditions.”

Oyo State chapters of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC and it’s Trade Union Congress, TUC, counterpart on Tuesday say the present economic realities in Nigeria are beyond the extension of wage award as announced by Governor Seyi Makinde.

NLC chairman in the state, Mr Kayode Martins who dropped the hint in an interview in Ibadan, said the inflation and hike in prices of basic needs of life occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy has surpassed the governor’s proactive gesture.

While appreciating Governor Makinde’s efforts at cushioning the effect on the subsidy Removal on workers, Mr, Martins emphasised that the harsh economy was unbearable and they are prepared to address the broader concerns.

Regarding the national signal for protests, Martins noted Oyo State is in alignment with the directive from the national body and expressed readiness to act accordingly.

He expressed hope that the minimum wage negotiation at the national level would favor the workers as the committee begins its deliberations in coming weeks.

Martins announced a two-day nationwide protest, emphasizing its peaceful nature, to signal to authorities that the current conditions are unfavorable for the masses.

He urged the government at all level to seize the opportunity to address the prolonged issues promptly.

Martins said: “The economic situation in the country is dire, and it is having a devastating impact on workers and their families. We are committed to working with the government to find solutions, but we will not back until we see real progress.”

“The issue of wage award is just the tip of the iceberg. The root causes of the economic hardship faced by workers are much deeper and require serious attention from the government.”

“We need to see a comprehensive and coherent economic plan from the government that will address the underlying causes of the economic hardship in the country.”

“We are calling on the government to engage in genuine consultation with the workers and their representatives, and to take into consideration their views and concerns. Workers must be at the heart of any economic plan.”

“The willingness of workers in Oyo State to join the nationwide protest is a testament to the gravity of the situation and the frustration of the people. The economic hardship has become a national issue, and workers across the country are feeling the impact. By joining the protest, workers in Oyo State are sending a strong message to the government that they are not willing to accept the status quo,” Martins said.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Bosun Olabiyi, emphasized the need for action rather than prolonged meetings.

He noted that the deteriorating situation, not limited to Oyo State, where individuals linger in offices until the end of the week due to economic challenges.

The TUC Chairman stressed the urgency of addressing national issues, particularly the need for a minimum wage that reflects the cost of living.

“The cost of living has increased, wages have not kept pace, and unemployment is rising.”

“We are calling on the government to take concrete steps to create jobs, improve infrastructure, and prosperity that we have helped to create. This is not a radical demand, it is a just demand.”

“Finally, we call on all the people of Oyo State to unite behind a vision of shared prosperity and social justice. We cannot afford to remain divided, and we must work together to build a better future for our state and our country.”

“The decision to join the protest is a powerful statement of solidarity with the workers of Nigeria. It shows that the workers of Oyo State are prepared to stand up for their rights and to fight for a better future for all.”

The Lawmaker representing Ibadan North II State Contituency in Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Babajide Adebayo has called for urgent Renovation and Rehabilitation of Cutulral Centre located at Mokola Hill of the State capital .
The lawmaker also wants the facility to be upgraded to modern 3D cinema for relaxation of the populace .

Hon. Adebayo made the call while presenting a motion during the plenary Sitting today,. presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin.

Moving the self sponsored motion, the lawmaker described Cultural Centre as an heritage that can generate more revenue into the Government coffer and add value to the Socio Economy development of the State.

” The Government needs to look deeper and work towards generating more Internally Generated Revenue from the Culture and Tourism sector. ” He stated.

He added that in the past, the Centre has served as a medium to showcase the cultural heritage of the Pace Setter State, leading among its equal then before it became moribund.

“when some of us were growing up, the Centre served as a tourist and adventure spot for citizens and foreigners. The Centre was a beehive of activities and a lot was generated in terms of revenue ” Hon. Adebayo added.

The House has however urged the State Government to put measures in place for the Renovation of the Cultural Centre and redesign the cinema session to a three dimensional status so as to generate Revenue for the State.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State Project Performance Monitoring Agency Bill, 2023 passed through its third reading stage during today’s proceedings.

The House has however adjourned its plenary sitting till Tuesday, 27th February, 2024.

The Iyaloja General of Lagos State and daughter of President Bola Tinubu, Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, has called for patience and optimism among Nigerians facing economic difficulties.

Speaking at the 2024 Mawlid Nabiyy celebration organized by the Lagos State chapter of Aljamahatul Qadiriyyah Islamic Movement, Tinubu-Ojo addressed the concerns over the prevailing economic hardship, describing it as part of a global downturn that affects countries worldwide, not just Nigeria.

During the event, which also served as a spiritual gathering to pray for the nation, Tinubu-Ojo emphasized the need for hope and faith in overcoming the current economic challenges.

She highlighted that the economic situation is a temporary phase and reassured the public that her father, President Bola Tinubu, is actively taking measures to alleviate the hardship faced by the populace.

Tinubu-Ojo’s comments came amidst the recitation of various portions of the Glorious Qur’an, aimed at seeking divine guidance for Nigerian leaders and prosperity for the country.

The Iyaloja General, who was also turbaned as the Iya Adinni of Qadiriyyah in Nigeria and Africa in recognition of her contributions to the development of Islam, underscored the importance of unity and perseverance during these trying times.

She said, “My message to all Nigerians is to please exercise a little more patience. Everything will be alright; it’s just a matter of time. We need to keep our hope alive. There is an economic downturn all over the world, and not in Nigeria alone. But we pray Allah will see us through.”

The management, staff, students and the entire campus of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, have been thrown into mourning following the untimely death of Mr. Olabode Olawuyi.

A release by the Public Relations Officer of the University, Abiodun Olarewaju, stated that Mr Olawuyi, a Veterinary Technologist, who has been in charge of the Zoological garden for over a decade, was attacked this afternoon, Monday, 19th February, 2024, by a 9 – year old male lion when he was feeding them in their den at the Zoological garden of the University.

The other members of staff who were at the scene of the incident did everything within their power to rescue their boss but the wild cat had already caused severe fatalities.

On hearing the sad news, the management team, led by the Vice Chancellor, abruptly ended an on going meeting for an on the spot assessment

Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon BAMIRE, was informed, on arrival, by the Acting Director of the University Health and Medical Centre Dr. Tirimisiyu Olatunji, that all first aid and medical efforts to save the life of the victim proved abortive.

Saddened by this tragic event, the aggressive Lion has been euthanized.

Mr Olawuyi has been taking care of the lions since they were born on campus about 9 years ago but, tragically, the male Lion killed the man who had been feeding them.

The University management has sent a delegation to the widow and children of the deceased, imploring them to take solace in God who gives life and also has the power to take life.

Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon BAMIRE, has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the incident.

Abiodun Olarewaju,
Public Relations Officer,
Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State

The Lagos State Government has taken a strong stance against homeowners in state housing schemes who are accused of renting out their apartments at exorbitant fees.

Commissioner for Housing, Moruf Akinderu-Fatai, has issued a warning that the government will not tolerate such practices and will “wield a big stick” against those found guilty.

This crackdown comes in response to numerous complaints from residents in various state housing schemes regarding the high rents charged by homeowners.

The government’s intention in providing subsidized housing options with low down payments and extended payment plans was to make life easier for Lagos residents.

However, expensive rents have hindered this goal.

Commissioner Akinderu-Fatai emphasized that the purpose of asking allottees to make a five percent down payment and spread the remaining amount over ten years was to make life more bearable for Lagosians.

He expressed disappointment in homeowners who exploit the system for personal gain, stating, “they are renting those apartments out to make money… Why do people try to inconvenience others when the government intended to make life bearable for citizens?”

To address this issue, the commissioner has ordered facility managers and estate association members to report homeowners who are found guilty of renting out their apartments at exorbitant fees to the ministry.

Those homeowners will face consequences, including forfeiting their apartments and having their payments refunded.

The Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has arraigned Ajayi Oluwabukola Temitope before an Oyo State High Court for allegedly obtaining N58, 458, 000.00 (Fifty-eight Million, Four Hundred and Fifty-eight Thousand Naira) by false pretence from her victims.

She was arraigned on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, before the court presided over by Justice Kamorudeen Babatunde Olawoyin, on a four count-charge of obtaining by false pretence, an offence that contravenes Section 419 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.

One of the count charges reads: “That you, Ajayi Oluwabukola Temitope ‘F’ on or about 9th April, 2021, at Ibadan, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud, obtained the sum of N23, 183, 000.00 (Twenty-three Million, One Hundred and Eight Three Thousand Naira) from Alhaji Yusuf Nadabo by falsely representing to him that the money is meant for the supply of four trucks of RC cola, Zero Cola and Coca Cola carbonated Soft drinks which pretences you knew to be false and thereby commits an offence of Obtaining Money by False Pretence contrary to Section 419 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.”

Another charge reads: “That you, Ajayi Oluwabukola Temitope ‘F’ on or about 5th June, 2021, at Ibadan, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, with intent to defraud obtained the sum of N17, 375, 000.00 (Seventeen Million, Three Hundred and Seventy Five Thousand Naira) from Altine Musa by falsely representing to him that the money is meant for the supply of 4,500 cartons of carbonated soft drinks at the rate of N2,750.00 per carton and 6,500 cartons of Coca-Cola 35CL at the rate of N850.00 per carton which pretences you knew to be false and thereby commits an offence of Obtaining Money by False Pretence contrary to Section 419 of the Criminal Code Law Cap 38, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.”

She pleaded not guilty to the charges when they were read to her.

Responding to her pleas, prosecution counsel, Sanusi Musa Galandachi told the court that the defendant allegedly swindled her victims of their money under the pretext of supplying carbonated soft drinks to them. He specifically told the court that Temitope fraudulently obtained the sum of N8.5million from one Idris Sheriff, N9.4million from one Ifeanyi Mmadubuike, N23.1million from one Alhaji Yusuf Nadabo and N17.3million from one Altine Musa respectively.

Consequently, he asked the court for a trial date and prayed the court to remand the defendant in the Correctional Centre due to the fact that she was a flight risk and would definitely jump bail if granted. He disclosed that she jumped an administrative bail earlier granted her by the EFCC. He further added that there are several petitions recently received against the defendant that would soon be concluded for prosecution.
Responding to the prayers of the prosecution counsel, the defendant’s counsel, S.B. Ajibola pleaded with the court to admit his client to bail, adding that a bail application has been filed and served on the prosecution.

After listening to both counsels, Justice Olawoyin threw out the bail application filed by the defence counsel after upholding the submission of Galandachi that the defendant is a flight risk and ordered that the defendant be remanded in the EFCC detention facility pending the hearing and determination of the case.

Also, the court ordered for accelerated hearing for the prosecution to open and close its case.

The matter was adjourned to March 14, 15 and 21, 2024 for commencement of trial.