The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has pledged to end all forms of tyranny and hooliganism in the state.
He assured that anyone found culpable in the recent disturbances at Iperu-Remo during the just-concluded local government elections would face the full weight of the law, irrespective of their status.
Governor Abiodun made this declaration at the Presidential Lodge in Abeokuta on Sunday night while hosting the newly elected local government chairmen and their deputies.
He emphasized that the era of hooliganism and thuggery must come to an end in Ogun State, reaffirming his commitment as the Chief Security Officer to safeguard peace and order. The governor condemned the actions of individuals who imported illegal security operatives to disrupt the elections, adding that such behaviour would not be tolerated.
“I want to commend our law enforcement agencies. Despite attempts by some individuals to disrupt the elections, their plans were thwarted. Let me assure you that the events in Iperu are under thorough investigation. Anyone found guilty—no matter their rank or influence—will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” he stated.
Governor Abiodun disclosed that certain individuals hired thugs, hoodlums, and unauthorized policemen to create chaos during the elections, even going so far as to attack the vice-chairman of a local government in his hometown.
“As the Chief Security Officer of this state, I will not allow such impunity. I promise to demystify anyone involved because enough is enough. Those illegal policemen have been disarmed and are now in custody at Eleweran,” he said.
The governor urged the newly elected local government chairmen to prioritize fairness and inclusivity in their governance. He reminded them that they were elected to serve all citizens, regardless of political affiliations.
“The elections are over, and you are now leaders for all. Be fair and just to everyone, and focus on delivering development to every corner of the state,” he advised.
Prince Abiodun described the election results as a testament to the people’s confidence in the progress his administration has achieved over the past five years. He congratulated the local government leaders, encouraging them to replicate the state government’s ISEYA vision—focused on infrastructure, social development, education, youth empowerment, and agriculture—in their respective areas.
“God has chosen you for this responsibility, not because you are better than others, but because it pleases Him. Use this opportunity to serve diligently,” he said.
Meanwhile, Prince Abiodun on Monday charged the newly elected local government chairmen to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people at the grassroots.
The Governor gave the charge at the swearing-in ceremony for the new chairmen at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.
He said as the closest tier of government, they are expected to formulate policies and implement programmes that impact positively and improve the lives of the people in their respective local government area.
The Governor said the emergence of the new chairmen signifies the confidence people repose in the State government and the APC, hence the need for them to work towards improving their lives.
Abiodun, who, acknowledged the peaceful conduct of the election across the State, said it was imperative for them to key into the State’s development agenda by aligning with the ISEYA mantra just as he advised them to embrace innovation to generate revenue for the development of their councils.
While urging the new local government bosses to make security paramount in their councils by working with security agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders, the governor also stressed the need for them to mentor future leaders to sustain their legacies.
He challenged them to uphold the State’s vision by serving all citizens regardless of faith, tribe or political affiliations.
Responding on behalf of his colleagues, the Chairman, Sagamu Local Government Area, Hon. Olasile Odulate, appreciated the governor and the people of the State for th confidence reposed in them, even as he pledged that they would uphold the principles of good governance and deliver impactful leadership to the people in their respective council areas.
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, has set his sights on expanding the party’s dominance in the Southwest, declaring Osun and Oyo States as the next targets following the APC’s victory in the Ondo State governorship election.
Ganduje made the statement on Sunday in Akure, shortly after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa the winner of the 2024 Ondo governorship poll.
Southwest Domination
In his remarks, Ganduje emphasized the party’s ambition to consolidate power across the entire Southwest geopolitical zone.
“Our next target is this geopolitical zone, the Southwest. That means Osun State and Oyo State. We assure you that we will do everything possible to bring them into the fold so we can achieve political homogeneity in the region,” Ganduje said.
He expressed confidence in the APC’s ability to secure victories in future elections, pointing to the party’s strategy and determination to strengthen its influence in the region.
Ondo Election Credibility
Describing the Ondo election as a benchmark for democratic conduct, Ganduje commended INEC for its logistics and manpower, which he said ensured a free, fair, and credible process.
“This is a moment of joy. Seeing is believing, and this is democracy in action. The major stakeholders, including INEC, have validated the credibility of this election,” Ganduje added.
Opposition Faces Challenges
The APC’s declaration comes amid opposition protests over alleged vote buying and violence during the Ondo election. The PDP and other parties have vowed to challenge the results, raising questions about the broader implications for the political landscape in Osun and Oyo.
As the APC celebrates its win in Ondo, the focus now shifts to whether Ganduje’s bold declaration will translate into success in Osun and Oyo, or if opposition forces will rally to defend their strongholds.
This was contained in a document posted ny the school authorities on Saturday, noting that LAUTECH had increased tuition fees for 2024/2025 fresh students. The management of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Ogbomoso, Oyo State, has reportedly increased fees for undergraduate students in the institution.
It added that it ranged from N372,000 to N782,000, depending on faculties and state of origin.
“LAUTECH increases tuition fees for 2024/2025 fresh students, ranges from 372k to 782k, depending on faculties and state of origin,” a Facebook user, who shared the document, wrote.
A student of the University who confirmed the development to SaharaReporters recalled that the students of the institution previously paid fees which ranged from N261,000 to N283, 000.
The student explained that the management has now fixed new fees at N372, 000 to N782,000, stating that students studying medicine are now paying N782,000.
“Our fees in 2023/2024 session ranged from N261,000 to N283, 000, but the management has now fixed new fees at N372, 000 to N782, 000 for 2024/25 session.
“The students studying medicine are now to pay N782, 000,” the student added.
Before the recent alarming increment, the Oyo State government had announced 25 per cent reduction in the tuition of students of LAUTECH.
Governor Seyi Makinde made this known in 2021 while paying a visit to the students of the institution.
Makinde had said the reduction was done despite the fact that the LAUTECH tuition was the lowest in the entire South-West.
He added that the reduction would cut across the board.
He said he had fulfilled the promises he had made to the students during electioneering having fixed the Under G Road and actualised the sole ownership of LAUTECH for Oyo state.
“Let me tell you, the LAUTECH fee is still the lowest in the entire South-West. Having said that, I will reduce your fee across the board; whether indigenes or non-indigenes, even new students. There will be a reduction of 25 per cent across board,” the governor had said.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a recess in the collation of Ondo state governorship election results, with plans to resume later on Sunday, November 17.
As of now, results from 15 local government areas (LGAs) have been declared, with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) leading, followed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Ondo election 2024 update The 15 LGAs already declared are Okitipupa, Akure North, Ifedore, Ondo East, Ileoluji Oke-Igbo, Idanre, Irele, Akoko South West, Owo, Ondo West, Akoko South East, Akoko North West, Ose, Akoko North East, Akure South.
The remaining three local governments, whose results are expected to arrive during the recess, are Ese Odo, Ilaje and Odigbo. While the APC and its candidate, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, have already collected a total of 268,144 votes, the PDP candidate, Agboola Ajayi, has garnered 79,125 votes.
Ibadan Indigenes within and outside the city have mobilized support and solidarity for Alh. Taye Adebisi Currency for being a proud ambassador of the city as he is to be honoured with Most Outstanding Ibadan Musician Award this month.Leading the campaign is an association of Ibadan Indigenes in the communication business, Ibadan Mega Voice, with the slogan, Ibadan first.
Ibadan Mega Voice is an association of Ibadan Indigenes in the communication business, covering Print, Electronic and Online media, Public Relations, Advertising, Theatre, Music, Printing and Publishing. It has over 50 members and their door still open to interested individuals. iMV paid a visit to Alh. Taye Currency in his Oluyole Estate residence in Ibadan recently.
Speaking at the engagement on behalf of Ibadan Mega Voice was its President, Aare Kola Olomide, who assured the Fuji musician of the support of the people of Ibadanland at all times, stressing that no matter the situation the city would remain behind him.Aare Olomide submitted that IMV would preach and promote peace in the city, state and country at large, and most specifically in the house of Fuji, “however, Taye Currency remains our pride”.The President of Ibadan Mega Voice who led Olusina Olabode Omo Iya Shina, Saheed Alatise Oba Irawo, Peter Olasupo Captain P2, Alh. Quadri Ajanasi, Bukola Hazmat Benny, Olamide Adeniyi and Alh Fasasi Ismail on the visit disclosed that the association has concluded all arrangements to decorate Taye Currency as the Most Outstanding Musician of Ibadanland in recognition of his undying love and commitment to Ibadan.
The decorations of Alh Taye Currency is scheduled for the Grand Finale of the Second Anniversary Celebrations of Ibadan Mega Voice on Sunday 24th November at Ibadan House Oke Aremo, Ibadan.
Different activities have been lined for the celebrations by Ibadan Mega Voice, these include Keep Ibadan Clean Campaign from Beere to Molete, Free Medical Outreach at New Gbagi Market, Donation to Charity Homes, Sports Competition, Free Digital Marketing Skills Training and Grand Finale.Responding, the elated Fuji musician expressed profound appreciation for the wonderful show of love demonstrated at this time, promising to continue to be a good ambassador of Ibadan at all times.He also pledged his desire to do all within his capacity to support Ibadan Mega Voice.Alh Taye Currency gladly accepted to personally receive the award and showcase it to the whole world.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has said that the 250-bed hospital abandoned by the previous administration, located at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, would be partially opened in March 2025, while full operations would begin in June of the same year.
Governor Abiodun disclosed this on Thursday at the handing over of the hospital to Viewpoint Health Management Services Limited and Pan African Capital Holdings at his office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
He said the specialist hospital, which is currently about 65 per cent complete, was inherited from the previous administration and would provide world-class health services to Nigerians when completed.
Abiodun said: “This hospital will meet the precise needs of our population. It is scheduled for partial opening in March 2025 and full operations in June 2025.”
“We are resolute in our mission to ensure this world-class facility serves the people of Ogun State. Following a rigorous process of months of negotiation, we are excited to finally close the concession partnership for this hospital.”
“This hospital facility is an ongoing development in partnership with Viewpoint Health Management Services Limited, which is in partnership with HealthShare South Africa, a very reputable hospital management company. This stands as a testament to our shared commitment to delivering state-of-the-art healthcare to our people.”
“Unlike a fixed 250-bed designation, Viewpoint will complete all civil works, reconfigure the facility, provide other required additional equipment, staff, and manage the hospital to ensure it operates in line with global best practices.”
“As per the contractual agreement, the completion of this hospital’s physical structure and equipment setup will be managed by Viewpoint Health Management Services Limited, who will also operate the facility for a stipulated period. We will work tirelessly alongside them to provide world-class healthcare for our people.”
The hospital, Governor Abiodun emphasized, would be equipped with advanced facilities and cutting-edge technology for effective healthcare delivery, as well as serve as a referral centre for medical research, training, and innovation.
“This facility will be affiliated with the Abuja Medical Centre of Excellence, managed by King’s College Hospital, and will open in the first quarter of 2025,” the governor added.
Prince Abiodun expressed confidence that the facility, when operational, would drastically reduce the amount of foreign exchange spent on medical tourism overseas and lay a foundation for long-term growth in the state and national healthcare sector.
Abiodun, who said his administration is working to ensure accessible and equitable healthcare for all, also revealed that bids for the renovation of an additional 74 Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs), in collaboration with the World Bank, have been advertised, just as the government awaits grant approval from AFREXIM to further expand Primary Healthcare Centres in the state.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, in her remarks, said the hospital would set a benchmark in the nation’s health sector as it aims to strengthen the sector to bring healthcare services to the doorsteps of the people.
While appreciating the governor for his visionary leadership and efforts in getting the project underway, the commissioner said it is coming at the right time and place.
The Chairman of Pan African Capital Holdings, Mr. Chris Oshiafi said negotiations for the takeover of the hospital started three years ago, assuring that his organization is ready to deliver the best medical facility that would discourage medical tourism in the country.
Chairman of Viewpoint HealthShare, South Africa, Dr. Tony Decoito said his company would work towards ensuring the timely completion of the hospital.
Dr. Decoito said his organization is currently operating in 15 African countries, with six in West Africa, stating that his organization has a complete work plan for the hospital and is ready to complete it in six months’ time.
Nigeria’s inflation rate climbed for the second straight month in October, hitting 33.88%—an increase from 32.70% recorded in September 2024.
This is according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) Consumer Price Index (CPI) report released on Friday, November 15, in Abuja.
The data bureau said the headline inflation rate in October rose by “1.18% points when compared to the September 2024 headline inflation rate.
On a year-on-year basis, the Headline inflation rate was 6.55% points higher than the rate recorded in October 2023 (27.33%).
This shows that the Headline inflation rate (year-on-year basis) increased in October 2024 when compared to the same month in the preceding year (i.e., October 2023).
Furthermore, on a month-on-month basis, the headline inflation rate in October 2024 was 2.64%, which was 0.12% higher than the rate recorded in September 2024 (2.52%).
This means that in October 2024, the rate of increase in the average price level was higher than the rate of increase in the average price level in September 2024.”
The NBS also said the food inflation rate in October surged to 39.16 percent, compared to 33.77 percent in September.
On a year-on-year basis, the food inflation rate was 7.64 percent higher compared to the rate recorded in October 2023 (31.52 percent).
“The rise in food inflation on a year-on-year basis was caused by increases in prices of the following items: guinea corn, rice, maize grains, etc (Bread and Cereals Class), Yam, Water Yam, Coco Yam, etc (Potatoes, Yam & Other Tubers Class), Palm Oil, Vegetable Oil, etc (Oil and Fats Class) and Milo Lipton, Bourvita, etc (Coffee, Tea & Cocoa Class),” the bureau added.
The much anticipated Ondo state governorship election took off on Saturday, with a low turnout of voters.
Most of the polling centres visited by our correspondent between 7.30 and 9.20 am were close to empty.
Only security agents and INEC ad hoc staff were sighted.
At about 8.47 am, at Unit 49, Ward 2, CAC Grammar School, Akure South LGA, INEC polling officer, Itohowo Akamba, told journalists that the process was yet to commence as only the PDP agent was on present.
Mr. Jayeoba Dayo, a PDP agent in Ondo, condemned the absence of agents of other parties, which he said has caused delay.
At about 9.07 am, no voter was sighted at Unit 37, Ward 2, St Louis Grammar School, Gbogi/Isinkan, Akure.
As at the time of filing this report, voters are gradually trickling out to the polling centers.
Speaking to our Correspondent at Unit 4, Ward 2, Akure South. LGA, an Ondo resident, Abu Jimoh, expressed confidence in the electoral process.
“We hope for a free and fair election. We always do not have problems here, whether you’re PDP or APC, we are one family here.
“I am sure there will be no violence at all. I urge people to go and cast their votes peacefully and go back home,” he said.
