Oduduwa News

The Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA) has on Thursday conducted a sensitization programme for the new set of members of the National Youths Service Corps (NYSC) at their Permanent Orientation Camp in Iseyin, Oyo State.

The annual exercise is meant to orientate corps members about the activities of the agency, in the area of stamping out corruption and to solicit their support in achieving the set goal.

In her words, the Chairman of OYACA, Hon. Justice Eni Esan (rtd) said the agency has been able to achieve a lot while discharging it’s given mandate, among which is investigation of 186 cases out of 337 reported to the office.

She maintained that while investigation is ongoing on 151 cases, seven have been forwarded to the State Attorney-General for prosecution and fourteen persons are facing trial in court.

She added that OYACA has succeeded in retrieving huge amount of money from corrupt contractors that failed to deliver on contracts collected from government departments and agencies.

“The Oyo State Anti–Corruption Agency (OYACA) has been able to achieve a lot in the discharge of its mandate to fight corruption and curb corrupt practices in accordance with the law that established it.

“The Agency has received from Government Departments, institutions and individuals over 337 petitions on different cases of corruption and corrupt practices. 186 cases have been thoroughly investigated and concluded. Investigations are ongoing on 151 cases and 7 cases have been forwarded to Hon. Attorney General for Prosecution while 14 persons are already facing trials in court.

“It is expedient to mention that a senior civil servant in the state was recently convicted by a court of law and sentenced to a term of imprisonment for corruption.

“OYACA has been able to recover huge amounts of money from corrupt contractors engaged by Government Departments but who failed to perform the contracts as expected.

“OYACA has also assisted individuals to recover huge amounts of money from some fraudulent civil servants, the Agency has also investigated some Government officials on allegations of diversion of Government funds into personal accounts. Such officers at the moment, are standing trial in court.

“Also, in several MDAS, persons who had pending applications for approvals for over five years had such approvals speedily granted owing to the intervention of OYACA.

“As part of the core mandate of the Agency to educate and enlighten the public, we have carried out many sensitization and advocacy programmes for different groups of people for instance; Chairmen, officers and residents of Local Government Areas in the State, Traditional Rulers, Civil Servants and officers of the Judiciary and Staff and Students of Tertiary Institutions.

“The Agency is currently running radio and television jingles on various media stations to sensitize the general public on the ill effects of corruption and the role everyone can play to fight same.

“OYACA has opened social media handles such as YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and X formerly known as Twitter to enable members of the public to view our activities,” she added.

Eni Itan however sought the contributions of the newly mobilized corps members to the progress of Oyo State, which she said could only be achieved through corrupt-free conducts at public and private establishments and among the populace.

The Oyo State Government has said applicants without the license of Teachers’ Registration Council of Nigeria, (TRCN), can apply on the Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board job portal.

The Executive Chairman, Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. Nureni Aderemi Adeniran stated this today, while featuring on a weekly program on Fresh FM, Ibadan.

Recall that the Oyo State government opened its job portal for primary school teachers from June 25, 2024-July 9, 2024.

Adeniran however, said after being employed, each teacher must register for the TRCN’s licence, as this would be one of the major requirements for promotion, in the State teaching service.

Reacting to questions on the eligibility of teachers with NCE certificate, Adeniran said the Oyo State Government is aware of the importance of the licence, however, it will be a great disservice to deny prospective applicants job.

He added that they can register with the council, while on the job.

The OYOSUBEB boss, who is a registered member of the council, said the Oyo State government was committed to the standardisation of teaching profession in the state.

Dr. Adeniran therefore advised National Certificate on Education holders, B.A, B.Sc Degree holders to apply on the portal, as the deadline is fast approaching.

He said, “We have been receiving messages on the prospects of applicants without the licence of TRCN. No doubt, as a teacher, you must register with the council. However, we will allow them to apply. Those employed without the certificate must as a matter of duty, register immediately.”

This present government is planning to recruit 7,000 teachers and we are keen on employing duly qualified ones. Those who are licensed by the TRCN have added advantages. We do not want quacks, this is why the examination process will take written and oral stages. If you are lucky to be employed, without a TRCN licence, you must get it, as soon as you can.”

Adeniran, who applauded the process of application so far, said, the portal, has received over 55, 000 applications as at this morning.

Dr. Adeniran added that to motivate the teachers, the Board intends to deploy each teacher within his/her local government of residence.

The Chairman, while speaking on the likely questions for the applicants, said to avoid uproar, religious questions will not be included the CBT questions.

He advised job applicants to prepare for the next stages of the exercise, saying the board will only employ suitably qualified candidates.

Governor of Oyo state, Seyi Makinde, has officially presented staff of office to the new Onifiditi of Fiditi land, Oba Sakiru Oyewole Adekola-Oyelere Ajani-Eedu II.

Speaking at the ceremony held at Fiditi Grammar School on Wednesday, Governor Makinde noted that the momentous occasion signifies the embodiment of tradition, heritage, and the continuation of the legacy of leadership in our land.

The Governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Barrister Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, congratulated The new monarch and Fiditians for the successful coronation.

He said the process of selecting Oba Sikiru Oyewole Oyelere was diligently followed, starting with the endorsement by the entire family, the presentation by the local government, and the scrutiny by the Ministry.

According to him, this transparent and traditional selection process is commendable and demonstrates our commitment to upholding due process in the appointment of our leaders.

He urged and implored Oba Sikiru Oyewole Oyelere to collaborate closely with the government in addressing pressing issues such as community development, education, healthcare, and security.

In his words, “By working hand in hand, we can tackle these challenges and ensure the welfare and progress of the entire community. The traditional institution and government authorities must join forces to promote peace, security, and overall development.

“In particular, I charge you, Kabiyesi-elect, to take all necessary steps to prevent the scourges of kidnapping, banditry, and land grabbing in your domain. Our government has zero tolerance for these menaces, and we expect your full cooperation in eradicating them.

“Embrace the wisdom, grace, and humility befitting a leader of your stature. Engage with the voices of your people, listen to their needs, and lead by example in fostering unity and progress in your domain. Your reign should be characterized by compassion, integrity, and a genuine dedication to the well-being of every individual under your care.”

“I extend my sincere appreciation to everyone involved in making this ceremony a success and thank the people of Tapa for their unwavering support. Let us continue to work together to build a brighter future for generations to come. Thank you, and may God bless us all.”

Earlier in his remarks, Oba Oyelere expressed his gratitude to the governor, describing the occasion as a significant moment for him and the people of Fiditiland.

He said Governor Makinde’s visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the growth and prosperity of Oyo state are truly inspiring and left an indelible impact.

He added: “Your pivotal role in today’s successful coronation and your relentless support for our community’s development profoundly uplift all Fiditians. We deeply appreciate your commitment and foresight”.

The monarch however pledged to lead with wisdom, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to justice, saying “Let us continue to cultivate unity and harmony, drawing inspiration from our past to fuel the aspirations and potential. I ask for your continued support and prayers as I strive to fulfill my duties with honor and dedication”.

The event was attended by commissioner for information, Dotun Oyelade; commissioner for justice and attorney general; Hon. Abiodun Aikomo; members of Oyo House of Assembly, other top government functionaries, OYSROMA Chairman, Hon. Busoye Ogunlade, royal fathers and traditional leader and host of others.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has taken a significant step towards addressing the housing needs of Lagosians with the unveiling of 60 units of luxurious apartments at Rising Lagos Apartments and the inauguration of the 144-unit mixed development project, Greater Lagos LBIC/WGC Apartments, in Amuwo Odofin area of the state.

According to a statement by the governor, the Rising Lagos Apartments, located in the heart of the city, will offer state-of-the-art facilities and top-notch amenities, setting a new standard for housing in the state.

The governor stated, “Today, I unveiled 60 units of two and three-bedroom apartments at Rising Lagos Apartments, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and designed to enhance residents’ quality of life. Additionally, I commissioned the 144-unit mixed development project, Greater Lagos LBIC/WGC Apartments, in Amuwo Odofin, showcasing our dedication to urban renewal and sustainable development in Lagos State.”

This development is a significant milestone in the state government’s efforts to address the housing needs of its citizens and promote inclusive growth throughout the state.

The International Council for Ifa Religion (ICIR) has responded to a statement credited to the palace of Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrashed Akanbi, saying idol worshipping is not in Yoruba culture.

The body, in a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday and signed by its President, Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode, said that there is an urgent need for the monarch to relearn the Yoruba history to avail himself and his chiefs the real story behind the evolvement of the culture, tradition and the religion of the Yoruba people.

Fatunde hinted that it is unfortunate that Oba Abdulrashed, who is supposed to be a custodian of Yoruba culture and tradition have turned to a foot soldier of foreign culture while denigrating and demonizing his own Yoruba tradition.

“We advise Oluwo’s chief to do away with fabrications aimed at rewriting Yoruba History to favour their agenda. They should open their minds to the true history of tradition of the Yoruba.

“It is unfortunate that people who are supposed to be custodians of the culture and tradition of a race are becoming soldiers of another race at the expense of their own race. It is like Oluwo is propagating arabian culture and demonizing Yoruba tradition and religion. Nobody can separate Òrìṣà worship from Yorùbá culture and tradition and vice versa because, they are products of each other.

“It is our tradition to reach Olodumare through the Òrìṣà. We worship Orisa and the Orisa are not idols. It is worshipping Olodumare through a foreign deity that is idol worshipping. It is hypocracy when somebody practices a foreign religion together with the other aspects of the culture of the foreign race including language and mode of dressing and the same person is trying to separate religion of his own race from other aspects of the race’s culture.

“There is freedom of religion. However, is like the current Oluwo and his emissaries are blind to the fact that they are trampling on the religious freedom of the traditionalists.”

The body advised the monarch to face whatever religion he chose to practice and stop talking negatively about Isese religion, especially as there is freedom of religion in Nigerian constitution.

“We once again advise the current Oluwo to practice his arabian culture, tradition and religion without denigrating Yoruba Indigenous Religion and culture,” ICIR charged.

The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), Obafemi Awolowo Teaching Hospital (OAUTH) Ile-Ife chapter in Osun State, has issued a four-week ultimatum to the management of the hospital over alleged poor service.

Speaking with newsmen in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, on Monday, the NARD Chairman at OAUTH, Dr. Ibunkun Enesi, said the hospital, once renowned for its patient care, is now facing a crisis due to “unpalatable” welfare conditions that have demotivated doctors and healthcare workers.

Enesi outlined several critical issues affecting the staff to include a severe shortage of doctors and clinical staff.

“The last employment drive in 2022 remains incomplete, exacerbating the stress on existing medical personnel. This shortage has led to increased waiting times for patients,” he stated.

Enesi, however, called for the immediate completion of the 2022 employment process and the release of waivers for the 2023 and 2024 employment of clinical staff.

The NARD chairman added: “Additionally, the resident doctors have not been paid for 14 months, with around 45 doctors still awaiting their March 2024 arrears.

“Despite engaging the hospital management through formal and informal channels, only three months of the 17-month salary arrears have been paid. The hospital management’s response has been to label these hardworking doctors as ‘illegal staff’, despite their essential contributions to the hospital.”

Enesi also called for the immediate payment of all salary arrears and the unconditional payment of the March salaries for the 45 members, who he said were unjustly removed from the payroll.

“Labourers deserve their wages,” he stated.
He further lamented the deplorable working conditions, including disrepair core rooms and lack of basic amenities such as water and electricity.

Enesi said: “Despite repeated notifications, the management has taken no action to address these issues. Furthermore, core meals for doctors on call were stopped two months ago. The resident doctors demand the restoration of these meals and the renovation of core rooms to acceptable standards.

“Another critical demand is the immediate payment of appointment allowances, which have been settled in other centers across the country but not at OAUTH.”

The implementation of the ‘No Work, No Pay’ policy following a five-day protest for the non-payment of 14 months of arrears was also condemned as Enesi called on well-meaning Nigerians, traditional rulers, and President Bola Tinubu to intervene and press the hospital management to address these issues to prevent a disruption of activities at the hospital.

“The resident doctors have given the hospital management a four-week ultimatum to fulfill these demands, failing which industrial action may ensue,” he added.

Prof. Josephine Ezeie, the Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, who spoke on behalf of the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of OAUTH, Prof. John Okeniyi, appealed to the protesting doctors.

“We acknowledge the concerns raised by our esteemed doctors and assure them that efforts are being made to address these issues promptly. We urge the doctors to exercise patience as we work towards a resolution,” he said.

The Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency has confirmed the death of two persons, and injury to four persons following a head-on collision along the Sagamu/Ijebu-Ode expressway. 

This was revealed by the spokesperson of the state-owned traffic outfit, Babatunde Akinbiyi, in a statement in Abeokuta, the state capital, on Monday.

The road crash involved a Howo Truck with no registration number and a Toyota Hiace Bus with BEN 823 ZW.

The cause of the accident was attributed to excessive speed on the part of the bus driver leading to loss of control thereby crashing into the truck.

“Accident victims have been rescued to the  Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, while the bodies of two who lost their lives were deposited at the morgue,” he said.