Obasanjo had an exclusive interview with the News Central team and the state of Nigeria nation was discussed. He spoke on his time as President, the debt he met and how to he got forgiven for Nigeria. Obasanjo however berated the current huge debt profile of Nigeria which has drained the resources of the country.
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, on Thursday, expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s escalating debt, criticizing the country’s financial management years after he left office in 2007.
In a candid interview with News Central Television, Obasanjo revealed that he left Nigeria with a substantial $70 billion, comprising a $45 billion reserve and $25 billion in an “excess crude” account.
Oyo State Governor Engr. Seyi Makinde, former Governor Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadan land Oba Olakukehin, and other dignitaries are expected to attend the book launch for the late Oba Lekan Balogun, the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadan land, who passed away last March at the age of 81.
The book, titled The Life and Times of the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Late Oba Lekan Balogun, is set to be launched on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at the Ibadan Civic Centre, Idiape, Ibadan. This event is expected to be the highlight of a symposium honoring the late monarch, who reigned from March 11, 2022, to March 14, 2024.
Governor Makinde will serve as the Special Guest of Honour, with the sitting Olubadan, Oba Olakukehin, as the Grand Host. The Ekerin Parakoyi of Ibadanland, Alhaji Chief Fatai Aremu Olanrewaju, and the Agba Akin Olubadan, High Chief Fijabi, will be the Chief Launchers at the event. According to the organizers, the book, written by educationist Dr. Layo Adeniyi, chronicles the Ibadan chieftaincy traditional system and delves deeply into the life and times of the late Oba Balogun.
The book consists of 221 pages and covers 21 chapters, focusing on past heroes in the city of Ibadan, the Ibadan Empire, its founders, notable Olubadan figures, ruling lines, and the emojis of Ibadanland. It also provides an in-depth explanation of the ascension to the Olubadan throne, the journey to becoming a high chief, and the roles of members of the Olubadan-in-Council. Furthermore, the organizers noted that the book details the unique process by which Ibadan chiefs ascend to the throne of Olubadan without any rancor. It also pays tribute to the eminent sons and daughters of the city and its fallen heroes.
The President, International Council For Ifa Religion, Chief Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode has opined that the present economic crisis bedeviling the country, emanated from the foreign culture of greed, acquired by Nigerians.
He said this over the weekend while delivering a special lecture titled “Foreign Culture In Yoruba Land: Its Negative Impacts On The Economy Of The Land,” at the 2024’s celebration of Yoruba Council of Youths Worldwide, which held at Ilaji Resorts, Akanran, Ibadan.
In his address, Fakayode noted that foreign cultures came into Nigeria and Yoruba land through the introduction of alien religions, which made compulsory for the people to also accept their language, dressing mode, socioeconomic style and behaviors while the Yorubas have been known for the Omoluabi ethos of hard work, contentment, trustworthiness, before the advent of foreign culture, which he said contaminated the early characters.
Fatunde pointed that greedy acquisition syndrome among political, religious and traditional leaders led to formulation of policies, laws and regulations as well as actions that have secluded the majority from actualizing their economic potentials while the few people in the corridors of power, continue to amass wealth, to the detriment of all, calling on all to go back to the old habit of Omoluabi, speak the truth and lead others with the fear of God.
“Foreign culture is the alien traditions which are not indigenous to the Yoruba. Among the alien cultures that are popular in our midst are those from the white and that of the Arab. Nowadays, foreign cultures are dominant in our land and the introduction of foreign culture to our land were due to the following factors which include the coming of Islam in the 14th century and the British occupation of the 19th century.
“When we are talking about Yoruba people, the term ‘Omoluabi’ keeps surfacing. It is obvious that one of the names that the race was known for before being christened ‘Yoruba’ is Omoluabi. Unfortunately today, many Yoruba do not understand the meaning of the word Omoluabi because of the controversy surrounding the etymology of the term; some previous writers said it is the offspring of a man known as ‘Noah’ that are referred to as Omoluabi. While those who believe in such explanation are proud of it, those who know better will be chuckling.
“This is a serious issue because it is another way of subjugating Yoruba people, it is meant to turn the landlord to a tenant and turning aboriginals to strangers. The truth is that Omoluabi is used to refer to a child of Olu-Iwa, the one who takes after Olu-Iwa, that behaves like Olu-Iwa or followers of Olu-Iwa.
“Who is Olu-Iwa? Among the Divinities (Orisas), he is no other person than Ọ̀rúnmìlà. Whoever is of good character and patience like Orunmila is called ‘Abiwapele Omo Orunmila (one with gentle character like Ọ̀rúnmìlà).
“Omoluabi attitude shows good behavior with perseverance and patience, not greedy, fraudulent, selfish, proud and violent, which are traceable attitudes of the white and Arabians.
“Today, bad habits like lying, stealing, political and economic conspiracies, and human killing have trampled good habits to death in our politicians, leaders of thought, religious leaders and youths and the consequences are reflected in the economy. Farmers cannot harvest their farms without paying ransom to kidnappers while governments and security agencies collaborate or look the other way.
“For our economy to overcome all the challenges, we need to do away with foreign culture which has taken away good morals, so that we all become Omoluabi,” he admonished.
The Special Assistant on Road & Transport to the Chairman,Egbeda Local Government, Hon. Deacon Adegbite Omoniyi Felix has disclosed the scheduled activities to mark his 100 days in office.
According to Deacon Adegbite, the celebration is aimed to appreciate God for his mercy and grace and to give back to his community as a way of appreciation for their support over the years. The 100 days anniversary is to witness a public lecture titled Rediscovering Ancient Knowledge for Modern Solutions, GSM development Agenda as a case study to be delivered by the duo of Hon. Ogunwale Leke Saliu & Comrade Akunlolu Akinbode.
Also, the anniversary activities will feature novelty match to be played by Erunmu Vs Ayede, Health Talk & Exhibition and to be concluded by cash empowerment for ward 2 PDP members on the 3rd of November 2024.
Deacon Adegbite Omoniyi specially appreciate His Excellency, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde for his exemplary leadership in the State, likewise the Executive Chairman of Egbeda Ambassador Sanda Sikiru Oyedele who’s the Guest of Honor for the 100 days anniversary activities.
Former ALGON executive in Oyo State, otherwise known as Forum 68, comprising of 68 ex-LG Chairmen, 68 ex- Vice Chairmen and 610 Councillors under the late Gov. Abiola Ajimobi administration on Thursday, 17th October 2024 holds a get-together and media parley to assess their journey so far.
The program which held at ALGON secretariat, Ringroad Ibadan featured prayers from both Muslim & Christian clerics.
The gathering disclosed that it had lost about 27 former Local Government Chairmen, Vice chairmen, as well as councillors since 2019.
This was made known by the former state chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Ayodeji Abass-Alesinloye, who’s also the Chair of Forum 68 during a get-together of Forum 68 (former Executive Chairmen of Local Government in the state).
He said, “Out of 746 past chairmen, vice chairmen and councillors during the late former Governor Abiola Ajimobi, the party has lost some of its most committed party members in the state. We have lost four former chairmen, four vice chairmen and 19 councillors”
The gathering also specially offered prayers to the soul of the former Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi and to the souls of other departed party men and women in the State.
Alesinloye stated that the Forum was a child of necessity, a product of their political ingenuity to continue the struggle for grassroots development, defence of constitutional democracy, and rule of law, after the State Governor, Seyi Makinde, illegally dissolved elected chairmen in the state.
He said, “A spontaneous, unconstitutional action of the governor carried out on the first hour of his swearing-in to office.This action of Governor Makinde was eventually declared illegal, unconstitutional, null and void by the Supreme Court of Nigeria on May 7, 2021, with a cost attached and full payment of our salaries and entitlements ordered to be paid.”
He therefore dedicated the unique victory to the late Ajimobi and prayed to God to repose his soul.
On local government autonomy, the former ALGON chairman said the party was fully in support of a fundamental necessity to grassroots and national developments.
“But our people should not see the recently granted autonomy by the Supreme Court in the case of the FGN vs State Governments as a mere government-to-government affair.“
It’s a call to duty for more popular participation by the people to guarantee free and fair elections, allocations and budget monitoring, project choice, and implementation monitoring. This is to make sure that transparency, integrity and accountability are not compromised,” he added.
Responding, the state Acting APC chairman, Olayide Abas, called for unity of purpose among the party chieftains and followers so as to return the lost glory of the party in the next elections.
Among the dignitaries were Senator Ayoade Adeseun, former Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Asimiyu Alarape, the Public Relations Officer of the party, Adewale Sadare, party bigwigs, past political office holders and many others.
Sanusi Alhaja Saratu Aduke Konibaje, the foremost Oyo Market Leader in Oyo State, join countless others in celebrating a remarkable leader, father, and elder statesman, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, Baba Egbe Onisowo of Oyo State, as he adds another glorious year to his illustrious life.
According to a statement made available by Alhaja Saratu Aduke Konibaje media office, it described Chief Sanusi as not just an ordinary leader but a pillar of support and hope in our community.
“On behalf of all Marker women in Oyo State, I extend our felicitation to our Baba Egbe Onisowo of Oyo State, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi on the occasion of his birthday. His tireless efforts to elevate the status of traders across Oyo State have been a testament to his vision, dedication, and love for the people. His leadership within the Egbe Onisowo is defined by integrity, transparency, and a deep commitment to the progress of all traders, both big and small. Under his stewardship, we have seen remarkable improvements in the welfare of market traders, a more organized structure in the operation of our markets, and an unprecedented level of unity among members of the trade community. He has successfully bridged gaps, fostering a strong sense of camaraderie that has helped advance the economic fortunes of Oyo State’s trading sector”
Alhaja Saratu further stated that Chief Sanusi’s contributions extend beyond the markets. “he is a man of the people. His philanthropic gestures, his open-door policy, and his commitment to mentoring the younger generation of traders have earned him the respect and admiration of many”
“He is a man who has continually prioritized the well-being of his people, demonstrating in action and deeds that leadership is about service. His life has been one of relentless service to humanity, with his heart firmly rooted in uplifting those around him” the statement add.
Alhaja Abegbo Lawal on behalf of the no woman no nation renewed hope has congratulated Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi on the occasion of his birth anniversary.
Alhaja Lawal while speaking with journalists emphasized that Chief Dotun Sanusi in the last couple of years has been providing examplary for all and sundry in the State.
“As the world celebrate the birth anniversary of Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, it’s important that we at the No Woman No Nation Renewed hope join hands to celebrate one of our pillars of support, who has contributed immensely to the advancement of humanity”
“We recognise all that he’s doing for humanity, he’s a purposeful leader who’s passionate about his people and the development of his community, we pray that God Almighty will grant him all his heart desires, aamin”
Agbele Sporting Chairman Hon. Omidiji Ponmile has felicitated Deacons Rachael Abisola Soname, a woman who has made a significant impact in improving the lives of the less fortunate, on her 95th birthday.
Hon. Omidiji Ponmile said, “It is gratifying to note that Mama Deacons Rachael Abisola Soname is not only a philanthropist but a quintessential woman of great virtues who has diligently impacted others, as exemplified in her son, Oloye Kunle Soname, the Chairman Remo Stars, and CEO ValueJet.”
Agbele Sporting Chairman congratulates the family of Soname for this rare privilege God has given them to see their mother clock the ripe age of 95. It is indeed worth celebrating.
The Chairman prayed for Mama and her family that Almighty God, whom she has always faithfully served, will grant her many more years in good health.
The Renaissance Group, a socio-political organization domiciled in Egbeda Local Government area of Oyo state on Tuesday issued an official communiqué congratulating Hon. Mayowa Oladejo on his appointment as the Assistant Secretary of the local government.
In a remark by Akinloluwa Akinbode, one of the conveners during a gathering of advocates of rural and community development, which was made public by the group’s Director of Media, Publicity and Strategy; Olukunle Molomo Yar’Adua, the group lauded the appointment and termed it as a true reflection of Oladejo’s steadfast commitment to the ideals he has always upheld and a testament of his unwavering loyalty and eventual reward.
The Renaissance Group emphasized that it is a well-deserved reward for Hon. Oladejo’s astuteness, resilience and dedication to the People’s Democratic Party PDP under the leadership of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, his leader, his immediate community and environs which by extension hosts the Ajorosun LCDA.
In the message, the Director of Media, Publicity and Strategy; Olukunle Molomo Yar’Adua also expressed his belief and confidence that Oladejo’s input will further strengthen the local government to reach new heights with this call to service.
The Oyo State House of Assembly on Tuesday passed a Bill to rename Okeogun Polytechnic, Saki to Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleoso Polytechnic, Saki in Honor of the late Elderstateman, Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleoso
The Bill was passed after the presentation of the report of the Oyo State House of Assembly Committee on Education (Tertiary Institutions, Science and Technology) which considered the Bill.
The report was read by the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Oluwafemi Oluwafowokanmi
Tagged “Okeogun Polytechnic Saki Amendment Bill, 2024, the Bill was passed after Clause by Clause consideration of the report.
Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleoso died on September 2, 2024 at the age of 86. He served as the Secretary to the State Government, SSG between 1999 and 2003 during the administration of Former Governor Lamidi Adesina.
He was elected into the Oyo state house of assembly in 1979 before Bola Ige, a former governor of the state, appointed him commissioner same year.
Until his death, Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleoso was the Babalaje of Saki land.
The Speaker, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin said the Bill was to honor and recognise Chief Michael Koleoso’s significant contributions to Okeogun and indeed Oyo State
