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What Can Ademola Adeleke Not Do? By Sola Isola

What Can Ademola Adeleke Not Do?

By Sola Isola

For decades, we have always heard or read that government is continuum. We hardly get to see it happen in terms of projects especially when government changes hand from one political party to another, unfortunately it has denegerated lately into government changing hand to players within the same political parties abandoning project left by their predecessors.

In the media space, several analysts have tried to argue this as a basis for failure of government at several levels. While some people argue that it is politics of hatred, some other people argue that it is basically about priorities and some others argue that it is about each Governor or President wanting to leave a legacy. In this case lets focus on the Governors.

The question then becomes if a project should be completed because it has already been started or because the new Governor feels the project is not priority, remember that scarce resources had already been expended on the project.

Purpose conversion is something Nigerian leaders may have to pay attention to because if a particular project conceived for a certain purpose failed or has outlived its purpose, the same project can then be converted and used for another purpose.

Let me state here that the fact that government is continuum has been extensively exemplified by Governor Ademola Adeleke and this is not because of the basic functions of government but also on the basis of project abandoned by predecessors he has completed and projects that are moribund that he has now revived.

On one hand, let it be on record that when we say Government is continuum, it means that every new government inherits both the assets and liabilities of the previous government and is duty bound to fulfill those obligations.

Take loan repayment for instance, its impossible for any government to come and then refuse to pay back loan on the basis that it was taken by outgone governments, the loan is binding on the state.

In this regard, Governor Adeleke in two years of his administration, has paid back #62.31billion as domestic debt and paid back $13.61million in foreign debt.

The Domestic debt of Osun was ₦148.37 billion as at December 2022 when Governor Adeleke was sworn in but it has now reduced to ₦86.06 billion as at June 2024. In the same manner Foreign Debt of Osun as at December 2022 was $91.78 million but it has now reduced to $78.17 million as at June 2024.

Meaning that the Domestic debt of Osun has reduced by 42% and also the External debt reduced by 15% within to two years of our administration.

This is said to be my understanding of a government that is continuum, this is a liability or burden imposed on the state government by outgone administrations but which must be paid back, that’s one hand of the continuity of Government.

I say often that every leader must combine competence and character but in addition to this, every leader must be humane – showing concern for the pain or suffering of another, in other words, a Leader must be compassionate.

I remember that in December 2022 when Governor Adeleke was yet to move to the Government Secretariat and we were still operating from Imole House, he was being briefed by different agencies of government and then it was the turn of CSDA, while the Agency Boss was presenting her report she mentioned some communities that were disconnected from the national grid and also mentioned that the Agency had the fund but needed the Governor’s approval which the immediate past Governor didn’t give till he left office.

Governor Adeleke’s mood changed immediately and all of us present could tell that he was sad, so he got the microphone and he said he was sad, we knew that he was indeed sad and he gave approval for the kick off of the project immediately.

Going forward, Former Governor Rauf Aregbesola was famous among workers in the state for paying half salary and to be honest, many of the workers now retired had already thought the money had gone, Governor Adeleke again during the campaign period promised the workers of Osun both serving and retired that their welfare is his ultimate concern.

I am nostalgic about this because I have family members who were affected, in fact my mother and father had suffered the harmer of two former APC government both when it was AD, before it became, ACN and then its finally merger with CPC to become APC. I won’t be talking politics in this piece for now.

Now for retired civil servants on contributory penion, Governor Adeleke as at June 2024 has paid back over N12.7billion and paid back N4.3billion in gratuities, which his higher than what the previous administrations in the state paid back in twelve years all together. Only recently, in October 2024, Governor Adeleke approved another payment of N3.3billion pensions and gratuities and presented a N1.9billion cheque to Contributory pensioners in the state in November 2024.

You may want to argue that this is not an achievement but whatever makes an administration impose a burden on the government, its becomes an achievement for whoever lifts the burden, in this case, the name Ademola Adeleke suffices.

What about half salary, Governor Adeleke had in 2 years paid back a total of 7 months half salary from the 30 months half salary debt inherited from previous APC administrations, as if that wasn’t enough, Governor Adeleke cashed back the promotion of civil servants approved by the previous administration and left without financial implication.

Some people have gone about parading lies that Governor Adeleke had promised to pay the backlog in 6 months, I hereby challenge whoever said this to provide a video clip where he said that. At no time was such promised, he simply promised to pay and he has started, he has paid 7 months out of 30 in 2 years.

Now the highest ranking civil servants in any state is the permanent secretary, but for close to 10 years, Osun State operated without Permanent Secretaries because a government was trying to avoid the benefits of office and entitlements for the office holders then introduced “Coordinating Directors” instead, which the government of Oyetola that succeed it didn’t reverse until it lost the 2022 Governorship Election.

The question in the school of public thought then became, if the Oyetola-led Government in the state knew it would appoint Permanent Secretaries, why wait until the loss of an election before taking such step, does it mean it wouldn’t have if Oyetola had won his re-election bid?

Governor Adeleke upon assumption of office abolished the title of Coordinating Directors used in Ministries under the previous APC administration with the re-introduction of Permanent Secretaries to restore full confidence and right order in public service.

Now let me bring the conversation home, this conversation is so you can understand how Governor Adeleke has continued to clear doubts by doing things the previous administrations started.

In March 2023, while celebrating his 100 days in office, Governor Adeleke commissioned the second phase of 10.5km Osogbo Ikirun/Ila-Odo road which was abandoned by previous APC governments. The road was contract was first awarded in 2012.

On the 4th of December 2024, Governor Seyi Makinde on behalf of Governor Adeleke commissioned the the dualized Testing-Ground-Ilesa-Garage road in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.

The 17.4km Oba (Sir) Adesoji Aderemi East Bypass was awarded in the year 2012 by Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola to Messrs Slava-Yeditepe Project Limited to ease the traffic congestion at the centre of the city and to serve as intracity link. The road passes through Egbedore, Osogbo and Olorunda Local Government areas. The scope of works consist of 4nos bridges: One over Rail Line and Three over River Osun, a full cloverleaf interchange and host of the another items of work.

The road project is divided into four segments with each segment connected with roundabout or interchange in Osogbo metropolis which are;
Osogbo / Iwo road – Osogbo/Gbongan Road
Osogbo/Gbongan road – Osogbo/Ilesa Road
Osogbo/Ilesa Road – Osogbo/Ibokun Road
Osogbo/Ibokun Road – Osogbo/Ikirun Road.

The road was left incomplete by the time the tenure of Rauf Aregbesola expired and still incomplete by the time Gboyega Oyetola was completed his tenure, which means that for 12 years the road remained abandoned and Governor Adeleke in his two years completed it, with solar powered street lights.

In December 2024, Governor Adeleke commissioned Otan Ayegbaju – Iresi intercity road, which was abandoned for 44 years. This 7.5km road was constructed and commissioned to mark the second year in office celebration of the Ademola Adeleke-led administration.

On the same day of the Iresi road commissioning, Governor Adeleke had commissioned Cooperative College in Ode Omu, Osun State which was abandoned for 12 years and has been reconstructed by his administration.

I have to admit that even as an aide of the Governor I often wonder how easy or hard it must have been for a man who was completely underrated before becoming Governor, he was even degraded by the opposition party. The opposition party keeps searching for documents to nail him that he may have obtained loans but each time they did, the propaganda fails woefully, even the one they got featured on Sahara Reporters.

To be honest, I believe that the model of Imole government is worthy of emulation, let’s us the implementation of Minimum Wage as an example, the Ademola Adeleke-led administration started paying workers the 75,000 minimum wage with December 2024 salary, even when the federal government that approved 70,000 was yet to fully implement it. The salary scale of workers in Osun is now said to be second best in the southwest after Lagos. Nothing but commendable.

So what is it that Ademola Adeleke can not do? Against all odds, he continues to show to us all that he is here to do the job. According to Colin Powell, “A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination and hard work.” Adeleke has proven to us beyond reasonable doubt that he meant business.

I’ll say this as I round it up, Oyetola-led Government told the people of Osun State it renovated Primary Healthcare Centres across the state, with that year in review, lets take 2023 for instance, Ondo emerge first in the southwest in the Leadership Challenge for Healthcare Delivery. This was announced in May 2023, 6 months into the government of Governor Adeleke. Where then is the result of the effort of Oyetola in the health sector. The challenge started in 2019, even when Oyetola was Governor, not once did Osun moved close to being a winner.

Fast forward to December 2024, 2 years after Ademola Adeleke became the Governor of Osun State, and took a bold step revamping the Primary Healthcare Centres in the state, Osun emerged Southwest Champions and won $500,000. There is therefore no doubt that the intervention of Ademola Adeleke is yielding results, its not a gimmick.

Osun in two years, under the leadership of Ademola Adeleke has seen tremendous improvement in the Health, Education, Agriculture, Infrastructure, Water, Sports and all other sectors, again I ask, what can Adeleke not do?

Sola Isola is a Media Aide to Governor Adeleke of Osun State.

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Opinion

Omipidan: The cost of an idle hand By Oluniyi Isamotu

Omipidan: The cost of an idle hand

By Oluniyi Isamotu

Too much idleness, a 19th century philosopher, Edmond Burke, observed “fills up man’s time much more completely, and leaves him less his own master, than any sort of employment.” And looking at Ismail Omipidan and his penchant for empty rhetorics, one cannot but agree with Burke’s observation. From the time Osun people rejected his principal, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, Omipidan has made it a habit to create a wrong image of the state under GovernorAdemolaAdeleke, using conjectures, and most time, false statistics.

A typical instance is in his latest article, where he exhibited, as usual, a fierce denial of reality. Let us, for a start, examine his assertion that Osun IGR in 2023 fell short of what was inherited. Although, the past has shown that Omipidan has strong avarice for the truth, but did not know he is this bad with numbers. His assertion that Osun IGR is leaking is too pedestrian, especially for the fact that information on IGR receipt is well in the public glare.

According to the audited financial statement of Osun state for 2023, the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) for that fiscal year was N27.72 billion. In the preceeding year, that is 2022, Osun earned N24.47 billion revenue locally. In 2021, it was N21.86 billion; N19.67 billion in 2020; N17.6 billion in 2019 and N15.68 billion in 2018. That was the time Omipidan’s principal was the Governor.

From the above figure, it is only illogical for anyone to assume that Osun IGR is leaking because what the numbers showed clearly is the opposite. Omipidan trying to make foreign direct investment under Governor Adeleke an issue is why people say talk is cheap. This is because all through the time of his principal as Governor of Osun, no investment was recorded, despite that Oyetola was touted to the Osun people as richer than the state.

Attracting investments, especially from overseas, rests on factors beyond a sub-national as the objective of every investor is to make returns and safe repatriation. Even though some of these factors are not something a state have power over, it does not however means that efforts should be made to persuade investors to choose one’s state should they decide to look the way of Nigeria. That was what Governor Adeleke has been doing and hopefully, will yield positive outcome in no distant time.

It is even appalling to note Omipidan’s subtle admission that his principal make no effort to drive investment into the state. This goes to show that Osun does not matter to them, and as the four years the administration lasted clearly showed, their interest is solely power and feasting on the commonwealth of the people. This explains the shabby outlook of things, with almost every sector in the state left in a state of disrepair.

The funniest thing in the treatise of Omipidan is on the presentation of the 2025 budget. In one breadth, Omipidan suggested that Governor Adeleke did not say anything, yet in another breadth, attributed some words to the Governor. Does that not show how confused he is? To make matters worse, Omipidan claimed no journalist of note was present at the event. So ridiculous, to say the least. What did Omipidan meant b ‘journalist of note’, because reputable mediums like AIT, OSBC, NTA, ARISE among others covered the budget presentation. The event was even aired live on OSBC Television, dispelling the lies of a media blackouts.

Only recently, Sahara Reporter, one of the leading online newspaper in the country, published a troubling findings on some expenses in the Ministry that Omipidan’s principal is supervising. The most concerning thing in the publication was that over N600m was blown by the Ministry on travels and feed in just four months, and contended that some of the monies were sent to private accounts in clear breach of Chapter 7, Section 713 of the Financial Regulations 2009, forbids paying public fund into private account.

No effort has been made to address the concerns of the public on this weighty issue, instead, the focus is the inanities which the recent article portrayed. This is actually shameful and bring back the ugly memory of the miserable phase that Osun endured under them. Quite unfortunate.

As against the erroneous insinuation of Omipidan, the Osun State Government at no time rationalise criminality. It is even worrisome that Omipidan try to justify extrajudicial action of an overzealous, which our laws clearly forbids. Our laws, which the State Government emphasised, requires an officer to make arrest and charge an accused to court, not carryout summary execution. Looking at the narrative of Omipidan, which has been flown by many others in the Osun APC, it cannot be too much to suspect that there was a conspiracy to kill the accused. That is evil, if that was the case.

By Yoruba culture and even religion doctrines, using foul words on an elder or someone in position of authority is a sign of bad upbringing. It is rather unfortunate that someone has chosen this ignoble path as a way of life. Only those who are blind to reality will deny the incredible turnaround that Osun has experienced in the last 23 months.

It is even shameful that someone who was part of a government who failed to pay any part of owed half salary to workers and pensioners will claim nothing is happening when Governor has is paying it. The five months cooperative deductions to workers owed by the previous administration has been paid off by Governor. Yet, nothing is happening in the mind of those who failed yesterday. Governor Adeleke paid the financial implication of promotion Oyetola gave workers in 2019 but Omipidan thinks nothing happening. Laugh!

In term of infrastructure, Governor Adeleke has invested heavily in transforming the rot that Oyetola left behind. From Ede to Iwo, Ilesa to Ife, Osogbo to Iresi, every parts of Osun is experiencing unprecedented road construction. Unlike the Oyetola administration which Omipidan was a part of, there is no local government in the whole of Osun state that does not have a road project going on.

Even though Oyetola administration got a $20.5m grant from the World Health Organisation (WHO) to rehabilitate primary healthcare centres (PHCs), it did a terrible job as they failed too meet the specification of the donor. It is Governor Adeleke that is fixing this mess, ensuring that all that is required to enhance healthcare delivery are provided. Yet, Omipidan sees nothing happening. That is nothing but self deceit.

In 23 months, Governor Adeleke has done incredibly well, touching almost every sectors in the state. Only recently, Governor Adeleke approved a N75,000 minimum wage for civil servants in the state. When Omipidan’s principal was in charge of the affairs of the state, it took him nearly 20 months to implement the N30,000 minimum wage after President Muhammadu Buhari signed it into law. Omipidan should stop listening to himself because obviously, he has been lying to himself. He should go out and hear the people of Osun state who are acknowledging the outstanding performance of Governor Adeleke in the 23 months he has been in office.

Lest I forget, Omipidan should tap his principal to get to work as nothing is happening in his ministry. He should not end up ineffective in that role as he was as Governor of Osun state. He should show working and justify the faith of President Bola Tinubu in him and not damage the image of Osun to the very end.

● Oluniyi Isamotu writes from Isale Oba quarters, Iwo.

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Opinion

How deep is the Osun APC membership plunge? By Adebisi Ifamakinde

How deep is the Osun APC membership plunge?

By Adebisi Ifamakinde

I was surfing the internet recently when I came across a finding that touched on the significant slump in the membership of the main opposition in Osun state, the All Progressives Congress (APC). The finding, which was the culmination a survey conducted by the Democracy Polling Agency (DPA), a non-governmental organization affiliated to a top university in Nigeria, indicating that the Osun APC has lost at least 45 percent of members in recent time.

That is staggering, and out of curiosity, I look deeper to understand the finding more. The interesting thing in the finding was that the 45 percent membership slump attributed to the Osun APC was actually from the Ileri-Oluwa tendency of the party. For any observer of things in the Osun APC in recent time will understand that the party is sectionalized along the Omuluabi and Ileri-Oluwa tendency.

While Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, a former Governor in Osun state, leads the Omoluabi tendency of the Osun APC, the Ileri-Oluwa faction goes to the current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola. In the finding by the DPA, the Omoluabi tendency has about 45 percent of the old APC members in Osun, while the Ileri-Oluwa faction controls less than the remaining 60 percent.

It was from this 60 percent membership hold by the Ileri-Oluwa tendency, the DPA noted in its finding, that no fewer than 45 percent members had left. From the surface, this will seem impossible, but following events in recent times, provide more clarity on the finding by the DPA. Lately, APC members in Osun are leaving in droves to the ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the defection has become so rampant that one may easily lost count.

Starting from August to this moment, APC members across the state have moved to the PDP. From Ikire to Iwo, Gbongan to Ila, Ife to Osogbo, Ede to Modakeke, APC members in Osun seemingly no longer find the platform appealing to further their political participation as they pitch tent elsewhere, most especially the PDP.

According to the DPA survey, the APC has seen defection of members in 27 local governments in the state within the spate of three months. But a deeper look, scouring the pages of social media for news and pictures of defection, will show that the defection from the APC may have crossed all the 30 local governments, including the area office. That is huge and as inquisitive mind, I try to interrogate the development further.

Of a truth, politicians moving to the ruling party in our political environment is not usual, but the rate at which those of the APC extraction no longer find their platform attractive is intriguing. This much was highlighted by the DPA in its finding, attributing the development to the “impressive performance of the Osun Governor (Adeleke), the rigidity of the state APC leadership to reconciliation moves, the slow response of Mr Oyetola to discontinue his guber bid, the worsening economic climate and series disasters that had befell the party leadership in some local governments.”

No doubt that Governor Adeleke has done well in the two years he has been in the saddle, effectively delivering for the people across sectors. The disposition of the Osun APC leadership to reconciliation appears to weigh heavily on the reason why the platform is being deserted by members across board. It would be recalled that crisis, which created the Omoluabi tendency in the build up to the 2022 governorship election, played some role in its eventual ouster from power in the state.

Between then and now, the crisis had grown bigger and makes APC platform a lot weaker, significantly impacting its chance of challenging a formidable platform as the Osun PDP. To make matter worse, the Osun APC under the guidance of Oyetola, suspended Aregbesola from the party and recommended further disciplinary action to its national headquarters, finally blocking the path to any possible reconciliation.

Many observers believe the attitude of the APC doesn’t inspire hope of any chance in future elections, basically because the platform is not strong enough to stand a chance in any competitive election. While it is true that some PDP members, notably Dotun Babayemi, joined the APC, they have not been able to produce the numbers that could make up for the defection from the main opposition party. In fact, some of the members who followed Babayemi to the APC, like a former Iwo LGEA Secretary, Mr. Augustine, had since returned to the PDP with followers.

The balance is definitely scaled against the Osun APC and only a large scale manipulation of the electoral process could tilt the balance to it favour. Already, APC members have continued to boast in this line, touting interference of the election in the 2026 governorship by the Bola Tinubu-led federal government as its path to return to power. This will be a dangerous scheme as it may bring back the ugly memory of the 2018 election heist, which makes a larger number of Osun populace not to recognise Oyetola as their leader until his eventual ouster.

Away from this, is the observed challenge that the DPA’s finding reveal lies ahead for the PDP in Osun state. According to the organisation, the Osun PDP will be seriously tested by its ability to manage the influx of membership coming its way. “While PDP membership has increased by more than 50 percent in 2024 alone, there is a noticeable rift between old and new members,” the DPA noted.

Knowing politics and the recurring feature for struggle for space, it is very clear that as much as the defections to the Osun PDP should be an advantage, but it may turnaround to be a disadvantage. What happens rest on the party’s leadership handling of membership, ensuring that both old and new members can cohabit together and pursue the collective goals of the party.

In all, the DPA’s appraisal of political parties in Osun is a step in the right direction, as it not only provides a detailed understanding of the political environment in the state, but also help political parties to realise their standings and guide actions.This is a welcome development and more of such fact-base engagement from organisations with no political affiliations are needed to further deepen democracy, most especially in Osun state.

● Adebisi Ifamakinde writes from Gidigbo quarters in Iwo, Osun state

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Opinion

Ola-Iya Flyover Bridge: Gov. Adeleke’s Decision is About Safety of Life of Not Politics By Olayiwola Adekunle Da’Peace

Ola-Iya Flyover Bridge: Gov. Adeleke’s Decision is About Safety of Life of Not Politics

By Olayiwola Adekunle Da’Peace

“You don’t need to know the whole alphabet of safety. The A, B, and C of it will save you if you follow it: Always Be Careful “Mines Magazine of Colorado School of Mines.”

The above quote says a lot about safety and proactiveness to avoid disaster in any community which is the major drive of Governor Ademola Adeleke, the Chief security of life and properties in Osun State, swift action on taking a precautionary measure as conveyed by his instruction to the Osun State Ministry of Works to install a heavy-duty truck barricade on the Olaiya Fly-Over.

However, it’s sad to hear that one Banik, Remi Omowaiye, and some other opposition elements gathered today for a press conference to display their displeasure about the decision of the people’s Governor decision to ensure the safety of life and property of the good people of Osun State, which is his sole responsibility. While I don’t expect less from them because of their individual roles in drifting Osun State to the abyss as a result of careless abuse of trust, it is important to remind them all that politics should be about people, humanity, and the safety of life and property, not about their selfish political objectives.

I also understand that they are doing the show of shame to revive the ambition of the defeated and better forgotten Gboyega Oyetola bid to come back and contest as Governor after last week’s reports that his party APC is looking completely away from him for the ticket of the party come 2026 Osun gubernatorial election because of his woeful performance as Governor of the State between 2018 to 2022 but it’s important to sound to their hearing that Gov. Ademola Adeleke is only thinking about the good people of Osun State and not the defeated and bad elements who placed their means of survival above the safety of Osun people.

While I understand that their assignment is basically for their stomach and a cashout mission, I advise them to do their opposition duties with dignity and every sense of respect to the people’s lives and property because the people of Osun State are enjoying the good performance of H.E Governor Ademola Adeleke across all the sectors in the state.

From civil servants’ and retirees welfare, to infrastructural development across all communities in the state, renovations and upgrading of health facilities across the state, youths development and empowerment, agricultural revitalization, Governor Adeleke has shown to be a lot better.

I can only advise them to get whatever they can squeeze out from Oyetola while it lasts because Osun State is in the safe hands of Governor Ademola Adeleke and the people are more than ready to re-elect him come 2026 hence, it’s good, and safe to say that, there is no vacant at Abere Bola Ige Governor’s office of Osun State.

I’m Comr. Olayiwola Adekunle Da’Peace, I write from Odeomu Osun State.

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Ganduje’s open threat to democracy By Sarafa Ibrahim

Ganduje’s open threat to democracy

By Sarafa Ibrahim

Nigeria’s democracy has entered into a troubling phase, facing an uncertain future. And the source of the problem is in the disturbing posture of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, which suggested that poll may no longer be the path to power any longer in Nigeria as democracy, everywhere, is known for.

“In this (South) geopolitical zone, we must deliver 100 percent in favour of APC. Therefore, Ondo State, you must be the forefront of the two other states–Oyo and Osun– we will capture them, but I will not reveal our secret. We are strategising. Everything must be 100 per cent behind President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Ganduje was quoted to have said at a stakeholders’ meeting of the party in Akure on Sunday.

But it is just not the Southwest that Ganduje has in mind for conquest. In August this year, Ganduje provided a stark overview of what the future of Nigeria’s democracy will look like by indicating that the APC will take Edo state, which will be followed by Anambra next year because “we (APC) have introduced a new scheme” and then go on to seal it by “encroaching into that (South-East) zone to ensure that we capture most of the states. And if we get what we want, we will capture all the states.”

By capture, Ganduje was simply telling Nigerians that ballots may no longer be the means to decide leadership. This will mean that Nigeria is on its way to a one-party state, which many have feared is the ultimate goal of Ganduje and his party. It is frightening, right? But the truth, which is in plain view is that Ganduje doesn’t seem to agree that the choice of leadership in a democracy solely rests with the people.

Ganduje, of course, may pretend that is not the case but unfolding events have clearly shown where he is headed and it is not something good. Democracy, anywhere it is adopted as a form of government, is anchored on the people exercising the power to choose who administers their affairs through the ballots. What, in fact, makes democracy appealing more to the people is that it gives them much say on who leads them.

However, this is what Ganduje has been pointedly hinting will be gone, yet no one seems to care. In all of these, Ganduje hide under the re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu to fly his anti-democratic tendency, but that did not tell the whole story. This is why it is worrying to note that, Ganduje who should be at the forefront of promoting the sustenance of democracy in Nigeria, is actually trying to pull the plug and set Nigeria on the path of authoritarianism.

Democracy can only work when the people have a choice. That is what Ganduje is trying to take away from Nigeria with his subtle but open attempt to take everything, not by the ballots but forcefully. In Osun, for instance, the people endured horrible experiences under the APC for several years, with public infrastructures in a deplorable state just as the welfare of workers and pensioners suffered great neglect.

It was the option of an alternative that democracy offers that provided succour to the people in 2022, bringing about a government that eases their pains and set the course for better living conditions. In less than two years in office, Governor Ademola Adeleke, who emerged through the will of the people, has turned things around for the better, offering a refreshing experience on governance to people who have suffered misrule for a very long time.

Take, for instance, the welfare of the people. Before Governor Adeleke came to power, the welfare of active workers and pensioners was treated with levity, exerting an unimaginable amount of pain on those segments of the society. It was so bad that the promotion given to workers in 2019 by the APC administration didn’t go beyond the paper it was typed as no financial benefits followed it. It took the coming of Governor Adeleke for the long wait of the workers to end, as he implemented the financial implications of the promotions even though he didn’t initiate it.

The same thing with the payment of half salary owed to workers and pensioners by the APC administration. Governor Adeleke has so far paid six out of the thirty months of inherited wage debt to active workers and some categories of pensioners while retirees yet to receive their bonds have gotten as much as fifteen months of the owed half salary. It is important to note that Governor Adeleke has also paid up five months of cooperative deductions from workers’ salaries owed by the previous administration.

For pensioners, it was a lot more rosy as Governor Adeleke has shown serious commitment to their welfare. As against the experience of the past when pensioners were forced to pour into the streets in protest to demand their due entitlements, Governor Adeleke focused significant resources on offsetting the huge liabilities inherited. In less than two years, the Adeleke administration has released over N15 billion as bond to pensioners in the state, outpacing the combined two administrations of the APC which could only expend about N11 billion as bond to pensioners in twelve years.

This is in addition to enrolling the entire pensioners in the state on healthcare coverage, ensuring that senior citizens can get treatment at no cost to them. It is worth emphasising that Osun is the first state in the whole of Nigeria to provide health coverage for retirees, taking responsibility for the healthcare of those who had given the best of their lives to the service of the state.

In terms of infrastructural development, Governor Adeleke is doing a very good job. In October last year, Governor Adeleke unveiled an ambitious infrastructure plan, which will significantly expand the infrastructure of the state and upscale economic activities. So far, the infrastructure plan has yielded the construction of bridges in Osogbo and Ile-Ife while dual carriage roads are happening simultaneously in different parts of the state. As we speak, road construction is happening in each of the local governments of Osun just as the rehabilitation of public schools and primary healthcare centres is being undertaken to expand access.

These and more are the things happening in Osun which Ganduje seeks to halt by capturing it, which implies rigging. Undoubtedly, for most Osun people, it is utterly disgusting for them to see how much Ganduje hold them in contempt, fiercely contesting their rights to choose who leads them. It gets more appalling when it is considered that this is the same Ganduje that was unable to win his home state of Kano for the APC in the presidential and governorship polls.

As I reflected on the implications of Ganduje’s capture comment, I fear that he may be unwittingly letting out the plan of his party to derail this democracy. If what it needs for a party to have a state is to capture it, and not the thumbs of the people, then we can forget about democracy. It is only in military regimes that capture, which entails a forceful takeover of power, is prevalent.

That is the unfortunate scenario that Ganduje is trying to bring back. Terrifying, right? This is more reason why all people of conscience must rise against Ganduje’s newfound approach to power because watching him get away with it will do no one any good, not even the APC. Osun is making steady progress and doesn’t need Ganduje’s capture to return to the ugly past when pains and anguish were the experience of the people.

● Sarafa Ibrahim is a Special Assistant to the Osun State Governor on Print Media and writes from Osogbo.

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Opinion

[OPINION] Governor Ademola Adeleke: A Transformational Leader Steering Osun State Towards a Brighter Future Beyond 2026 By Shakirullai Babatunde (Engr Shakbab)

Governor Ademola Adeleke: A Transformational Leader Steering Osun State Towards a Brighter Future Beyond 2026

By
Shakirullai Babatunde (Engr Shakbab)

Governor Ademola Adeleke has distinguished himself as one of the most effective and visionary leaders in Osun State’s history. His administration which is barely two years is marked by its dedication to comprehensive development, ensuring that every sector of the state experiences growth and progress. With a leadership style rooted in transparency, inclusivity, and forward-thinking policies, Governor Adeleke has set Osun on a path toward unprecedented prosperity. His unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people has ushered in a new era of hope and transformation, positioning him as a trailblazer in modern governance.

A key highlight of Governor Adeleke’s leadership is his remarkable focus on infrastructure development, which has been instrumental in transforming Osun State. His administration is overseeing the construction and rehabilitation of critical infrastructure that supports economic growth and improves the quality of life for all citizens. Simultaneously, he has prioritized the welfare of civil servants and pensioners, ensuring they receive the necessary support and benefits. Additionally, Governor Adeleke’s efforts to empower farmers have revitalized the agricultural sector, boosting local food production and creating sustainable livelihoods for rural communities. Recently, he procured brand news tractors to enhance the evolvement of Osun as an Agro-industrial State.

Governor Adeleke’s drive for progress has also extended to critical areas such as healthcare, education, and youth development. Notably, he has repositioned primary healthcare centers in Osun State to meet the highest standards, ensuring accessible and quality healthcare for all citizens. His administration has implemented programs aimed at improving healthcare services, expanding educational opportunities, and equipping the youth with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed. By investing in these sectors, the governor has laid a solid foundation for long-term, sustainable growth that will benefit future generations. His vision of an inclusive, forward-thinking Osun State continues to resonate with citizens across the state.

One of the pillars of Governor Adeleke’s administration is his commitment to good governance and transparency. His leadership has introduced greater accountability and efficiency into public service while ensuring that the rule of law is upheld. By promoting transparency in financial management and fostering an environment of trust between the government and the people, Governor Adeleke has restored faith in the leadership of Osun State. His inclusive approach to governance, which involves engaging communities, traditional leaders, and civil society, has further strengthened social cohesion and peace across the state.

As Governor Adeleke’s leadership continues to shape Osun State’s future, the state is poised to experience even greater progress and prosperity. With his focus on infrastructure, welfare, and sustainable development, Osun has been positioned as a rising star in Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape. Governor Adeleke’s administration stands as a testament to the power of visionary leadership and serves as a model for other states to follow. Osun State’s trajectory under his guidance is one of growth, unity, and opportunity, which will continue well into 2030 and beyond.

Governor Adeleke’s legacy will be one of transformation and people-centered governance. His dedication to improving the lives of Osun’s citizens through infrastructure, social welfare, and economic empowerment ensures that his tenure will be remembered as one of the most impactful in the state’s history. Osun State is thriving under his leadership, and it is clear that he will be celebrated as one of the best governors the state has ever produced.

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Kayode Oduoye, The Akotileta and Harlot

Kayode Oduoye, The Akotileta and Harlot

We read the jaundiced piece by the ignominious political harlot and electoral robber by the name Kayode Oduoye who squandered his father’s inheritance on political lottery and gambling. We choose to school him on his being the worst Akotileta in Osun history, being the worst political traitor in the state and being a failed professional who has finally exhausted his family inheritance after depriving his siblings of their fair share.

Oduoye’s attack on the Chief of Staff, Kazeem Akinleye was full of lies and false claims of financing everybody when in reality he swindled the Adeleke family of millions of naira. Let’s remind Oduoye that Hon Akinleye was for long a miner and successful federal contractor. He was not like Oduoye, a charge and bail lawyer and a nollywood loaver with false claims of business operations.

If not for the late Senator Oduoye whose properties and assets were hijacked by Kayode, the Akotileta, who would have heard of a spoilt brat without any independent source of livelihood called Kayode? Beside that he robbed his siblings of their share of their father’s wealth, he became an emergency socialite squandering what he did not earn on nollywood parties and outings.

We remind him that the money he fraudulently claimed he spent on PDP, if really true, were indeed PDP money returned to the party. His father further enriched himself as a senator and upon his exit, the akotileta robbed his siblings and blew the cash and the assets. At one point, he was begging Dr Deji Adeleke to buy the last remaining property of his father. Is that not an akotileta?

It is a lie from the pit of hell to claim he bankrolled Hon Akinleye or those he called Country home boys. All along, Hon Akinkeye had identified Kayode as a political fraudster. So the Chief of Staff had no dealings with the political harlot while his romance with the Adelekes last. So as he collected huge funds from Dr Deji before the 2018 election, the CoS was always warning that Kayode would betray the Adelekes. His predictions were proved right in both 2018 and 2022.

Kayode after milking the Adelekes so badly, worked against Governor Adeleke during the 2018 election. He returned after for the 2022 election and again betrayed the Adelekes. As an ignominious harlot and akotileta who is broke, the refusal of the Adeleke to continue to pay the wayward politician led to his unceremonious exit from the PDP.

So we declared that Kayode has no claim on the Adelekes or those he called Country home boys including Hon Akinleye. If anything, Kayode was the political marauder who cheated, and swindled the Adelekes in the last two governorship elections.

Kayode, you are an akotileta who is broke now. Or can you account for what your father left behind after serving as PDP Senator? Or why did you deprive your siblings of their share of their father’s wealth? Is it not true that you are really broke now as you are never a successful businessman or lawyer you claimed to be? How come you are no longer attending your Nollywood parties as a very unserious spend drift?

Ikirun spoke at that mammoth rally and showed support for the PDP and Governor Adeleke. You will be finally politically silenced even before the 2026 election.

● Seun Adekola for Alliance of Osun Patriots,
Abere.

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Adeleke breathes life to agriculture in Osun By Sarafa Ibrahim

Adeleke breathes life to agriculture in Osun

By Sarafa Ibrahim

Someone sent a message to me on WhatsApp, and I have since been ruminating about the phrase used, which informed the title of this my piece. Ostensibly commenting on a video showing a procession of newly acquired tractors making their ways into Osogbo, the state capital, he said,’Adeleke breathes life to agriculture in Osun’.

For several minutes, I paused to process what he said, and in the end, the import of the phrase sunk deeper into me. Of a truth, agriculture in Osun, for some time now, has been more in name than really feeling its effect. While Osun state is well known as an agrarian state, past negligence and the dearth of meaningful investment in essential equipment and implements have left the agriculture sector in the state almost lifeless.

For several years, agriculture in Osun state was just a mere rhetoric as policy and interventions in the sector were so insufficient to make any impact and drive expected growth in the sector. It was so bad that in 2020, to be precise, a meagre N6,992,500.00, was the aggregated amount spent on agriculture by the end of the third quarter, reflecting the terrible fate that the sector endured under the previous administrations.

Upon assuming office in November 2022, Governor Ademola Adeleke radiate hope that it will no longer be business as usual, which was anchored on a 5-point action plan. And less than two years in office, we can all see the manifestation of its implementation going by the remarkable delivery of service across sectors. The last time Osun experienced this sort of investment in agriculture as reflected in the acquisition of new tractors was under the administration of Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola.

This sounds unbelievable, but that was how bad things were under the previous administrations. In 2020, to be precise, the Osun state chapter of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN) highlighted the extent of neglect that the agriculture sector in the state was subjected to when he declared that there was no tractor in the state to aid their farming operation. Alhaji Sulaimon Araokanmi, who chairs AFAN in Osun state at that time, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Osogbo that “we also asked the government to provide tractors for us because there is no tractor in the whole state that farmers can use to cultivate.”

Apparently, it was all for nothing, as Oyetola did nothing about their request. All through his time in office, no single tractor was purchased, nor was any other serious effort made to aid agriculture activities in the state and ramp up food production. This type of story follows a familiar pattern and clearly explains the decline in agricultural activities and damage to the state’s food security.

This is obviously not a route that Governor Adeleke is willing to thread, and the manifestation of this fact is in the new tractors bought by his administration to improve farming activities in the state. Unveiling the new tractors on Friday, Governor Adeleke left no one in doubt that Osun is poised to leverage the agriculture potential of the state for food production wealth for the state and its people by disclosing that “Today, we are distributing 6,000 herbicides, 80,000 cashew seedlings, 8,000 cassava cuttings, 8,000 various vegetable seeds and 500 bags of Lime to our farmers, women associations, people living with disabilities and government schools with large farmlands.”

I’ve seen some opposition elements trying to diminish the extent of the intervention by Governor Adeleke by cross-referencing numbers, however, the mistake they are making is failing to appreciate the monumental impact of not doing anything in the past. They should be concerned that throughout the 12 years it held sway in the state, it was unable to buy just a single tractor to aid farming activities.

What actually matter was Osun moving away from archaic farming practice that the lack of interest by successive APC administration condemned Osun farmers to. This is exactly what the new tractors procured by the Adeleke administration offer to Osun farmers. Unlike the experience in the past, Osun farmers now have at their disposal tractors to cultivate lands and ensure broader farming activities. This is why most Osun people welcome the investment of Governor Adeleke in that regard.

For once, a governor is showing a zeal to solve a problem that is at the heart of the state’s food security. As Governor Adeleke clearly indicated while unveiling the new tractors, more are still on the way because “the state is committing N8 Billion for the acquisition of tractors and farm clearing equipment within the context of due process and another N2 billion worth of farm input support.”

For Osun to translate its vast agricultural potential to feeding its population and generating wealth, it needs to adopt sustainable practices that ensure increased productivity. This understanding clearly reflects the decision of Governor Adeleke to acquire tractors, which will not only boost productivity on our farms but also support the health of our farmers.

It is an open secret that mechanised farming is the order of the day, and only a handful of farmers could afford it without the support of the government. This gap is what Governor Adeleke is bridging with the new tractors and other farm implements, which will significantly address the decline in productivity in the sector over the years, and in turn, fight multidimensional poverty and enhance food security.

Governor Adeleke and his team carefully assessed the needs of the agriculture sector and came up with interventions that answer those needs. Before now, farmers in Osun state are left to their faith, going through the most challenging experience to cultivate their farms. This unfair treatment not only limit the capacity of their output but also weight on their health, contributing to the dwindling interest in farming and the attendant drop in food production.

But all that is bound to change with the intervention of Governor Adeleke. The good thing about the new tractors procured by the Adeleke administration is that it is multiple-purpose. Apart from the general use of clearing lands and ploughing at an incredible rate, the new machines can also transport farm outputs. Beyond tractors, Governor Adeleke will be supplying farmers in the state with implements, which includes improved seedings, bolstering the prospect of bountiful yields at the point harvest. Through partnership with the federal government, thousands of bags of fertilizers will be distributed to farmers in the state.

To cap it all, the Adeleke administration provides a lump sum of N8.6m to each of the poultry farmers participating in the Osun Broiler Outgrower Production Scheme (OBOPS), which according to the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Otunba Tola Faseru, will allow them to “raise two thousand (2,000) day-old broiler birds to table size within six weeks and the cycle will be repeated continuously and off-taker will buy back from each farmer.” But he did not stop there as he went on to assure that the government “will continue to support farmers’ group who are into food processing by empowering them with Agricultural asset like Maize Shelter, Palm Kernel Cracker, Smoking kiln, Poultry Cages, Pens etc. to encourage value addition.”

As much as the governor is prepared to aid farmers in meeting the food needs of the people for today, he is also making strategic investment to create a wealth that will serve the purpose tomorrow. This is what the specialised breed of cocoa and cashew seedlings being undertaken by the Adeleke administration reflects, putting tomorrow’s wealth in the hands of the people.

Osun is a major cocoa belt in Nigeria, and investing rightly, just as Governor Adeleke is pursuing, will not only restore past glory but also draws a sizeable wealth for the state and its people. The same thing with cashew, which is capable of providing the state and its people with a steady source of revenue in the future. In essence, Governor Adeleke understands well enough the immense potentials that agriculture holds for Osun, and he is willing to explore it.

The long and short of it all is that Governor Adeleke is prepared to do everything necessary to turn the tide in the agriculture sector and ensure food security for the people. And just as the person who sent me a message aptly captured, Governor Adeleke has breathe life to the agriculture sector in Osun state, and the people will reap bountifully from it. This is why Governor Adeleke will continue to enjoy the support of Osun people because, so far, he has been working to uplift lives and move the state forward.

  • Sarafa Ibrahim is a Special Assistant to the Osun State Governor on Print Media.
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TravelOpinion

JUST-IN: After France, Tinubu To Embark On State Visit To China

President Bola Tinubu is preparing for another international journey, shortly after his return from France.

President Tinubu is scheduled to visit China in first week of September.

The Nigerian leader will participate in the 2024 Forum on China–Africa Cooperation during this visit.

The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to President Tinubu, Ajuri Ngelale, shared the details of the trip at a press briefing held at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday.

Ngelale emphasized that the visit is part of the current administration’s strategy to enhance the welfare of Nigerians.

President Tinubu is anticipated to hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and sign several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).

Additionally, he will meet with ten CEOs from prominent Chinese firms involved in sectors like oil and gas, aluminum, agriculture, and satellite technology.

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OsunInfraFocus: The verdict of experts By Sarafa Ibrahim

OsunInfraFocus: The verdict of experts

By Sarafa Ibrahim

For sometime now, the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun state mumble about the infrastructure projects embarked upon by the Governor Ademola Adeleke administration in the state, pushing really hard to sell the impression that the projects fell short of standards. But when a technical team led by the President of the Nigeria Society of Engineers (NGE), Engr. Margaret Aina Oguntala, FNSE, concluded an audit and validation tour of the projects on Thursday, the consensus was that they are of very high standards.

“The quality is undoubtedly high, and the job is being done to a very high standards. It’s fantastic,” Engr. Oguntala who presides over Nigeria’s topmost engineering body declared. This verdict undo the weeks of plain untruth that the main opposition choose as a strategy to attack the genuine efforts of Governor Adeleke to upturn the gloomy outlook of the past and place Osun on the path of enviable development.

But the mistake, as we have come to learn, is that the APC failed to realize how disjointed their position seemed. Engineering is a technical field that takes more than the jaundiced notions that the APC elements on Osun infrastructure projects generally reflect. This was the clear takeaway from the NSE’s delegation findings on Osun infrastructure projects, spotlighting the sheer ignorance of the rudderless opposition in the state.

The NSE is the umbrella body for the engineering profession in Nigeria, providing it with the resources and expertise to accurately judge the quality or otherwise of construction works. This is more reason why its verdict on Osun infrastructure projects is sacrosanct, and more, answer for any doubt that the deliberate misinformation campaign that the APC may have stirred.

But that was not all. The NSE team spotlighted what could well pass as the Governor’s remarkable commitment to local content as Engr. Oguntala noted that “As I said earlier to His Excellency and I will say it again: We commend him for using Nigerian engineers and for believing in them.” While acknowledging that Governor Adeleke got the best hands among engineers for the jobs, the President of the NSE added that “so he (Adeleke) is assured to get the job delivered on time.”

To cap it all Engineer Dayo Eluyemi, a member of the American Society Engineers (ASE), attested to the good quality of the projects and went on to “assure that the contractor is doing the right thing here and all quality and control tests are being strictly monitored according to global standards.” To hear him say that, especially when he specialises in Highway construction as a fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Highway and Transportation Engineers, is yet an affirmation of the integrity of the Osun infrastructure projects.

From last year October when Governor Adeleke unveiled his ambitious infrastructure plan for the state, the APC was thrown off course, painstakingly hoping that it did not materialise. Initially, it raised questions on the funding for the projects and when it became obvious that Governor Adeleke was prepared to sacrifice to meet up, the response was to stir doubts in the minds of Osun people on the quality of the job.

Any keen watcher of things in will not be surprised by the APC approach to progress in Osun state. This is simply because it did not show serious commitment to advance the good of the state and its people, concentrating collective wealth in the hands of a minute few while leaving a huge infrastructural deficit and the attendant social and economic impediment on the state.

By contrast, Governor Adeleke prioritizes the good of all, deploring policies and interventions to correct the misdeeds of the past and set the cause for a better tomorrow. This is what the infrastructure plan he is pursuing underscores, and this much was acknowledged by Engr. Oguntola as capable of “transforming the State, improving infrastructure, and enhancing the quality of life for the people of Osun.”

There are certainly signs that Governor Adeleke is not ready to let the ugly past to continue by working assiduously to address the infrastructure deficit that inhibits progress and power a future that drives inclusive growth. In less than two years in office, Governor Adeleke tailored resources to building infrastructures that will reinvigorate hopes that a new Osun is possible.

Infrastructure is a necessity that powers not just economic growth but also social advancement of any society. Prosperity of the people are tied to the presence of good infrastructures as they support economic activities and promote standard of living. A good road network will aid connectivity, and as such, facilitate ease in the movement of people and goods, which will translate to increased economic activities. Just as a revitalized healthcare infrastructure will enable a healthy population, and this will add to the socio-economical capital of the state.

This understanding, definitely, explains the deep interest that Governor Adeleke has shown in infrastructural development in the state. From the time he assumed office and now, Governor Adeleke has invested heavily in upgrading Osun infrastructure level in what clearly highlights his ambitious goal of industrializing the state. At the moment, overhead bridges are being erected in different parts of the state, while major road infrastructure projects are also being aggressively pursued to boost interconnectivity. There is no local government in the entire Osun without ongoing road construction projects, which will enhance connectivity and the economy of the state when completed.

Beyond road construction, Governor Adeleke is upgrading the infrastructure of healthcare facilities across the state. The target is to have, at least, a functional and well equipped primary healthcare centre with facilities such as stable power supply and water resources in each of the political wards in Osun. So far, 50 PHCs have been done and delivered, while another 100 PHCs are undergoing massive rehabilitation at the moment.

In the education sector, Governor Adeleke is embarking on renewing decayed infrastructure, uplifting study environments to enhance qualitative learning. In the first phase of the intervention, a total of 31 public schools across Osun received a total overhaul and fully equipped with necessities to make teaching and learning comfortable for teachers and students. Most of the schools in the second phase had been completed and added to the increasing numbers of improved learning environments in the state.

The water needs of the people is not left out in the consideration of the Adeleke administration as it undertook the sinking of motorized boreholes in each of the 332 wards in the state as a temporary response to the challenges of getting access to clean water faced by the people. On the long-term, mini-water projects such as the Ignomina water scheme are undergoing major intervention in order to provide people in that axis drinkable water at their homes. Other similar projects are in the pipeline and will soon commence.

In all, it is clear to all that Governor Adeleke meant well. The Governor is not only working to fix today’s problem but also putting in place infrastructures that will not be a worry for those who need it tomorrow. And, to say all of these is happening less than two years in office is, to say the least, outstanding.

▪︎ Sarafa Ibrahim is a Special Assistant to the Osun State Governor on Print Media and he writes from Iwo, Osun State.

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