Home State Government of Osun
Category:

State Government of Osun

osun-moves-to-reduce-child,-maternal-mortality
Child Maternal MortalityFeaturedHEALTHOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Osun Moves To Reduce Child, Maternal Mortality

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

By Solomon Odeniyi

THE State Government of Osun has restated its commitment to end child and maternal mortality in the state. 

To achieve this, Governor Adegboyega Oyetola on Tuesday inaugurated the State Emergency Maternal and Child Intervention Centre (SEMCHIC) and the Community Health Influencers Promoters and Services (CHIPS) Programmes. 

Oyetola said the move was to reduce the menace of child and maternal mortality in the state.

In supporting the move, 315 Solar Direct Drive (SDD) Refrigerators were donated to the state by the National Health Care Development Agency, Global Alliance Vaccine Initiative, UNICEF, among others, for the preservation of immunized drugs against diseases.

The Governor, who was represented at the event by his Deputy, Mr. Benedict Alabi, explained that the inaugurated CHIPS agents were saddled with the responsibility of identifying pregnant women and children,  who are in need of medical care services and refer them to Primary Health Care facilities for adequate attention.

He further said that the initiative would accommodate and provide basic services to children under the age of five, and as well as enhancing community participation to guarantee maternal and child health as part of intervention of his administration in the health sector.

The governor, while highlighting the rationale behind efforts to strengthen the PHC in the state, said the major focus of such intervention was to tackle child and maternal deaths headlong. 

Oyetola added that the state had been able to put the health sector in the right footing through the renovation and equipping of 332 PHCs across the state, as well as adequate motivation of health personnel for greater productivity.

He said: “With these efforts, the hitherto decadence in the health sector across the state is speedily becoming a thing of the past.

“Our government is restoring the lost confidence in Primary Health Care system by the general populace, as 332 PHCs have been renovated by our administration and they are currently in use at the various LGAs.

“The speed at which the works were completed is a proof that our administration is goal-oriented and truly means well to deliver the dividends of democracy to all and sundry.”

The Governor, however, emphasised the need to galvanise and coordinate the efforts of the government, in order to ensure efficient utilisation of resources and maximise coverage with high impact intervention.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
outrage-over-3-year-delay-in-issuance-of-c-of-o
C of OFeaturedheroOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Outrage Over 3-Year Delay In Issuance Of C of O

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

Faulty GIS Equipment Halted Process – Sources

N65m Required To Fix Machine

By Ismaeel Uthman

OWNERS of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises in the State of Osun have lamented the ‘unresolved’ delay in issuance of Certificate of Occupancy by the State Government.

The worried business owners, who spoke differently with OSUN DEFENDER yesterday, said the delay in the issuance of the C’ of O’ is gradually crippling their businesses because they have not been able to access loans.

According to some of them, they needed the C’ of O’ as collateral to secure loans in commercial banks, lamenting that the unavailability of the document had denied them so many benefits of raising funds to support their businesses. 

Some of the SMSE owners claimed that they had been processing their C’ of O’ since 2018 and were yet to be given the certificates as at the time of filing this report.

Findings by OSUN DEFENDER revealed that a particular equipment being used for Geographical Information System in processing the C’ of O’ had developed faults since late 2018. 

The GIS machine, according to investigations by the medium, is a sophisticated equipment that makes the charting of land easy for the processing of the C’ of O’, among other land-related functions. 

According to sources, the machine was procured by the immediate past administration of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, noting that the collection of the C’ of O’ within a very short period of three to six months was made possible with the aid of the machine. 

Since the GIS machine developed faults, the charting of land and other functions being performed by the machine for the enhanced processing of the C’ of O’ had been halted, making it impossible for the final processing of the document.

The sources confided in OSUN DEFENDER that fixing and upgrading of the GIS system would cost N65m, adding that a memo had for long been sent to Governor Adegbeoyega Oyetola to that effect. 

“We are aware that memo had been sent to Mr. Governor on the matter but nothing has been done on it since 2018. This machine is important to us. When it was functioning very well, we processed C’ of O’ between three to six months. But now, we have files that have not been processed since 2018.

“The machine is powerful to the extent that neighbouring countries came come here to chart their lands and do some other geographical programmes on it. 

“It will cost us N65m to fix the machine. We believe this is not too much to spend on an equipment that is fetching us money. This year alone, the Ministry of Lands has generated about N500m. How much is N65m to N500m? The Governor should please look into the matter.”

Aside the faulty GIS equipment, findings by OSUN DEFENDER revealed that there are some C’ of O’ files that were yet to be attended to on the Governor’s Table. 

Some of the files, according to the sources, had been submitted to the Governor’s Office over a year ago. 

Narrating her ordeal, a businesswoman, Mrs. Jumoke Sanni said: “It is over four years now that I have been on the C’ of O’. I had to start all over again last year when the initial effort to get my C’ of O’ was taking too long. It is sad that I have not heard anything on the new one too. I followed the laid down process to the latter. I needed it as collateral for loan. I have been unable to access the loan because of the delay in the issuance of the C’ of O’ and it has caused me a lot in my business.

Another applicant for the C’ of O’, Mr. Clement Sekoni said: “I have been on it for the past three years. I met all prescribed requirements to get a C’ of O’. The information I have is that mine had just got to the final stage. They said it is in the Governor’s Office for his signature. I was pushing for it, not because of loan, but here may be need for it in the future.”

Another applicant, who did not want his name to be mentioned, said: “I applied for the C’ of O’ early last year, but up till this moment, nothing has been heard about it. It is so painful because it has destabilised my business plan. 

“I need the C’ of O’ as collateral for a loan I am processing in a commercial bank. I am building a hotel in a community around Ilesa and I approached my bank for a loan. The bank agreed to finance the construction of the hotel but asked for collaterals, which include C’ of O’ of my landed properties. 

“The bank has discontinued the loan process because I could not get the C’ of O’ on time. This has halted my business plan. The state government should please look into the matter of the C’ of O’. The delay in the issuance of the certificates is killing some businesses.”

However, further findings by OSUN DEFENDER revealed that some other applicants for the C’ of O’ might not have their documents processed because they did not have genuine survey papers. 

Some of the survey papers presented for the processing of the C’ of O’ were not authentic, according to sources in the Ministry of Lands.

But the Commissioner for Lands and Physical Planning in the State, Hon. Nathaniel Agunbiade said the claims by the complainants are not true, saying that the collection of the Certificate of Occupancy is still within ninety days in the state. 

Agunbiade, in a telephone interview with OSUN DEFENDER yesterday said: “That is not true. The moment all documents, particularly, the survey, is good, you take your C of O within 90 days.”

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
lautech:-osun-assures-workers,-students
FeaturedheroLAUTECHOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

LAUTECH: Osun Assures Workers, Students

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The State Government of Osun wishes to assure its citizens that the dissolution of its joint ownership of LAUTECH, following new terms of management spelt out by the National University Commission (NUC), is in no way skewed against the state .

All workers of Osun extraction either in the College of Health Sciences and LAUTECH ceded to Osun or those in Ogbomoso are assured of job security. There will be no intimidation or discrimination against them in the discharge of their duties.

The agreement states that indigenes of Oyo and Osun State working in either of the two entities will retain all their rights and obligations stipulated in their letters of engagements, therefore the State Government of Osun wishes to inform citizens that there is no need to fret about the dissolution, as all workers of Osun extraction are assured of the security of their jobs.

Osun Students will also not be subjected to fees or admission differentials. They will pay the same tuition fees as their Oyo counterparts.

The agreement ceded the LAUTECH and all its assets to Osun. Therefore ,

all landed properties and movable assets located at the College of Health Sciences in Osogbo, including Mercyland Hospital and Ilie are now properties of the State of Osun .

LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, which is an independent organisation, has not been affected by this dissolution, and will therefore continue to render necessary services to our people.

Citizens are therefore advised to continue to cooperate with the government to develop our institutions.

LAUTECH was established in 1990 by the old Oyo State Government with the main campus located in Ogbomoso. The teaching hospital was subsequently established in Osogbo. When Osun State was carved out of the old Oyo State in 1991, both states became joint owners of the institution.

Both Osun and Oyo states have mutually agreed that the joint ownership of LAUTECH be formally dissolved following extensive mediation by the National Universities Commission (NUC), on the need to restore tranquillity and conducive learning environment in both institutions. The decision became necessary as a result of governance and management challenges.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
flash:-oyetola-lifts-curfew-in-osun
curfewFeaturedheroOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

FLASH: Oyetola Lifts Curfew In Osun

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The Governor of the State of Osun, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, has lifted the curfew that followed the disruption of peace in the State.

It will be recalled that the government had earlier relaxed the 24-hour indefinite curfew to run from 8:00pm till 6:00am daily, following observation of citizens’ compliance and cooperation with the government’s efforts to restore peace and normalcy to the State.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Mrs Funke Egbemode, citizens can now go about their businesses and other transactions beyond 8:00pm without any hindrance or restrictions with effect from Wednesday November 11.

She stated: “The government has once again observed the level of compliance to all directives aimed at restoring tranquility to our dear State, and hereby appreciates the citizens for their patience and understanding. The government also appreciates security agencies for their efforts in maintaining law and order in the State.

“With effect from Wednesday November 11, residents of the State are free to go about their businesses without any hindrance or restrictions, while security agencies continue to discharge their duties to forestall breakdown of law and order.

“The government urges every citizen to be wary of actions that can upset the peace and harmony that the State is reputed for, and not hesitate to provide useful information to security agencies in case of suspicion of violence in any of our communities.

“The government is also calling on parents and guardians to continue to caution their children and wards not to allow themselves to be used by unscrupulous elements to jeopardize the peace of the State”, Egbemode stated.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
210-public,-private-properties,-businesses-looted-in-osun
#EndSARSFeaturedheroLooted ItemsOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

210 Public, Private Properties, Businesses Looted In Osun

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

By Ismaeel Uthman

A total of 210 public and private properties and businesses were vandalised and looted by hoodlums in the looting spree of Friday and Saturday, October 23 and 24 across the State of Osun.

The looting, which compelled a 24-hour indefinite curfew before its relaxation by Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, occurred in 14 different local government areas of the state.

According to investigation by OSUN DEFENDER, 46 ministries, department and agencies, local government secretariat complexes were attacked and looted by the hoodlums.

About 97 private businesses and establishments and 67 personal homes were also looted.

Some of the looted MDAs are: Osun Health Insurance Scheme, Omoluabi Holdings, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Ministry of Home Affairs, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and Osun State Agricultural Development Programme (OSSADEP).

Private businesses that were affected include TUNS Farms, Ayegbaju Market, Leventis Stores in Ilesa, Senator Adelere Oriolwo’s farm, among others.

Speaking with OSUN DEFENDER, the Secretary of the Ad-hoc Committee On Looted Properties, Mr. Samson Owoyokun, said the level of damage recorded in the looting could not be quantified and valued at as the time of filing this report, saying most people affected were still in a state of shock, disbelief and in trauma.

Owoyokun said: “What happened was totally unexpected, but what can be said about the damage is that it is highly devastating, totally destructive and a major economic and financial setback for everyone that was affected.”

The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Duties said based on the official complaints, 14 local government areas ‘were terribly and adversely affected by the mindless and wanton looting’.

He described the response of the people to the amnesty given to the looters by the governor a week ago as encouraging, saying ‘the looters actually responded though that is not what we represent, or who we are as Omoluabi.

“In many instances, the looted properties were dropped on many access roads, notable junctions, palaces of traditional rulers, religious worship centres, radio stations, though we still have stubborn and unrepentant looters. And sadly, though very unfortunate, some properties were badly damaged and vandalised and cannot be repaired again.”

Owoyokun said the recoveries across all the 14 local government areas have been massive.

According to Owoyokun, the government has recovered 97 freezers and refridgerators, 79 motorcycles, 143 ceiling fans, 131 standing fans, 115 generators, 46 air conditioners, 32 printers, 38 stabilisers, 1141 plastic chairs, 40 executive chairs, 23 executive tables, 103 TV set, 13 overhead tank, 10 toilet sink, 24 mattress, six INEC ballot boxes, 17 fire extinguishers, nine UPS, 33 grinding machines, 10 old motorcycles, 26 pumping machines, 57 bags of fertilizers, 94 swing machines, seven water dispensers, 14 wheelbarrows, eight vehicle number plates, 14 mats, eight electric kettles, three DSTV decoders and many other items.

“We must acknowledge the creative approach Governor Oyetola introduced to ensure people don’t suffer total loss on their properties. This initiative by the Governor has actually given a lifeline opportunity for some people to come back to businesses, and from records available, Osun is the only state where amnesty was given with unprecedented recovered looted items and properties”, Owoyokun submitted.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
looting:-why-another-curfew-was-inevitable-–-oyetola
FeaturedheroLootingOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Looting: Why Another Curfew Was Inevitable – Oyetola

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The State Government of Osun has reacted to the continued looting in the state by imposing an indefinite curfew.

Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, who announced this in a broadcast said the curfew will start from 3 p.m. on Saturday.

He said the curfew was necessary to curb the looting of warehouses across Osun.

Thieves looted a warehouse in Ede and Ilesha on Friday. There was also violence in Ile Ife and Osogbo over the looting of COVID-19 food aid warehouses.

Earlier Saturday, hoodlums looted the Iwo Local Government Secretariat and an office of the former deputy speaker of the House of Representatives, Lasun Yusuff.

In reaction to this, Oyetola said the government noted with huge disappointment, the abuse of the suspension, a day ago, of the 24-hour curfew, earlier declared in the State.

“It is unfortunate that hoodlums and criminals have taken advantage of government’s action to wantonly loot government and private property, including private business premises and homes in several parts of the State this morning. This is unacceptable and it stands condemned,” he said.

“After an Emergency Security Meeting this afternoon, where the whole situation was reviewed and assessed, we came to the inevitable conclusion to declare a curfew. Consequently, I hereby declare a 24-hour curfew across the whole State with immediate effect.

“This inevitable conclusion was reached to avert the continuation of this irresponsible act, especially now that the genuine protesters have suspended their protest earlier today.

“My fellow citizens, the declaration of a 24-hour curfew, which will be indefinite until further notice, is to prevent the current state of anarchy from degenerating into large-scale breakdown of law and order.

“For the avoidance of doubt, there shall be no vehicular (including Okada) or human movement during this period. Only those on essential duties will be permitted to move around. These persons too must carry with them proper identification to allow access.

“Violators of the curfew rules shall be prosecuted in line with the extant laws of the State. I enjoin all our citizens and residents to return home and remain in their homes until further notice.”

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
#endsars:-osun-curfew-still-in-place-–-govt
FeaturedheroOsunOsun CurfewPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

#EndSars: Osun Curfew Still In Place – Govt

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The State Government of Osun hereby reiterates that the curfew necessitated by the need to rid our streets and communities of violence and damages, is till further notice.

This by implication means that the State Government has not approved the movement of people at any time of the day within the period of the curfew.

Kindly be informed that the curfew is not a punitive measure; rather, it is to keep our streets safe, our children safe and to ensure that our business owners do not suffer any more losses.

Citizens are enjoined to cooperate with the government by staying safe, so that we do not suffer more physical, financial and psychological damages.

The State Government assures that the curfew will be lifted as soon as our collective safety is guaranteed.

Signed: Prince Wole Oyebamiji Secretary to the State Government

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
#endsars:-govt-suspends-24-hour-curfew-in-osun
#EndSARScurfewheroOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

#EndSars: Govt Suspends 24-Hour Curfew In Osun

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The Government of the State of Osun notes the high level of compliance with the 24-hour curfew earlier declared to forestall breakdown of law and order.

We commend the residents and citizens of Osun for their show of understanding and cooperation in the last 48 hours of the curfew.

We equally commend our youths for displaying high sense of maturity in carrying out their protest.

After reviewing the situation of the last 48 hours and following the inauguration of the State’s Judicial Panel of Inquiry on Police Brutality, the Governor, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, hereby suspends the 24-hour curfew, effective from today, Friday, October 23, 2020 till further notice.

The suspension is to allow members of the public approach the Panel to make their submissions and to go about their lawful businesses.

However, Government will not hesitate to reinstate the curfew should the need arise.

Government remains committed to the cause of our youths and the #EndSARS protesters and shall take every necessary step to ensure that their demands are met.

Considering Government’s commitment and determination to meet the demands of the protesters, we appeal to the protesting youths to suspend their protest and engage Government in a dialogue.

All citizens and residents are enjoined to be peaceful and to be law abiding as all efforts shall be made to protect them and their property.

May God continue to bless and keep the State of Osun.

Signed: Prince Wole Oyebamiji

SSG, State of Osun.

October 23, 2020

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
flash-#endsars:-osun-curfew-still-in-place-–-govt
FeaturedheroOsunOsun CurfewPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

FLASH #EndSars: Osun Curfew Still In Place – Govt

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The State Government of Osun hereby reiterates that the curfew necessitated by the need to rid our streets and communities of violence and damages, is till further notice.

This by implication means that the State Government has not approved the movement of people at any time of the day within the period of the curfew.

Kindly be informed that the curfew is not a punitive measure; rather, it is to keep our streets safe, our children safe and to ensure that our business owners do not suffer any more losses.

Citizens are enjoined to cooperate with the government by staying safe, so that we do not suffer more physical, financial and psychological damages.

The State Government assures that the curfew will be lifted as soon as our collective safety is guaranteed.

Signed: Prince Wole Oyebamiji Secretary to the State Government

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
osun-cautions-citizens,-closes-isolation-centre
FeaturedheroIsolation CentreOsunOsun COVID-19POLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Osun Cautions Citizens, Closes Isolation Centre

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The State Government of Osun on Wednesday closed a 220-bed isolation centre to manage COVID-19 patients.

The government urged the citizens to take personal responsibility for their safety against the COVID-19 pandemic, irrespective of security measures being relaxed across the country.

A statement by the Information and Civic Orientation Commissioner, Mrs. Funke Egbemode, announced the closure of Mercyland Isolation Centre.

At the end of the week’s edition of the State Executive Council meeting, she said the state government would intensify the sensitisation of its citizens on the government and NCDC approved safety protocols, enjoining the citizens to take their adherence to the protocols seriously.

“The government continues to worry about the level of non-compliance of its citizens to the COVID-19 safety protocols in the public space, with more people behaving like COVID-19 is no longer a reality.

“Although the curve seems to be flattening in our state, it is important that we all acknowledge that the Osun State is not an island. Our land borders are opened and that means that people move in and out of the state every day, most of whose COVID-19 status cannot be ascertained,” the commissioner said.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
osun-cautions-citizens,-closes-220-bed-isolation-centre
FeaturedheroIsolation CentreOsunOsun COVID-19POLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Osun Cautions Citizens, Closes 220-Bed Isolation Centre

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The State Government of Osun on Wednesday closed a 220-bed isolation centre to manage COVID-19 patients.

The government urged the citizens to take personal responsibility for their safety against the COVID-19 pandemic, irrespective of security measures being relaxed across the country.

A statement by the Information and Civic Orientation Commissioner, Mrs. Funke Egbemode, announced the closure of Mercyland Isolation Centre.

At the end of the week’s edition of the State Executive Council meeting, she said the state government would intensify the sensitisation of its citizens on the government and NCDC approved safety protocols, enjoining the citizens to take their adherence to the protocols seriously.

“The government continues to worry about the level of non-compliance of its citizens to the COVID-19 safety protocols in the public space, with more people behaving like COVID-19 is no longer a reality.

“Although the curve seems to be flattening in our state, it is important that we all acknowledge that the Osun State is not an island. Our land borders are opened and that means that people move in and out of the state every day, most of whose COVID-19 status cannot be ascertained,” the commissioner said.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
september-21-resumption-date-tentative-–-osun-govt
FeaturedheroOsunPOLITICSSchools ReopeningState Government of OsunUncategorized

September 21 Resumption Date Tentative – Osun Govt

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The State Government of Osun has fixed September 21 as the tentative date for the reopening of schools shut down due to coronavirus pandemic in the state.

Mrs Funke Egbemode, the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation made this known in a statement in Osogbo on Tuesday.

Egbemode said stakeholders were expected to continue to put protocols in place toward the reopening of schools.

“This should be in accordance with the guidelines set by the Federal Ministry of Education,’’ she said.

She also said that all schools in the state were to resume in phases with effect from Sept. 21, for an abridged third term of the 2019/2020 academic session.

“Having conducted an assessment of schools within the state to ascertain the level of preparations for reopening, the government has scheduled schools to resume from the COVID-19 break on Sept. 21 for an abridged third term of the 2019/2020 academic session, which is expected to end on October 30, 2020.

“To make up for lost grounds caused by the COVID-19 induced lockdown, a new academic session (2020/2021 session) is scheduled to commence on Nov. 9.

“Because of the Yuletide, schools will be expected to take a brief recess from Dec. 24, to resume on Jan. 4, 2021, for the concluding part of the first term of the new session which is scheduled to end Jan. 22, 2021.

“The resumption date for the second term is set for Feb. 1 and scheduled to end April 9, 2021.

“The third term of that session commences on April 26, and runs till July 23,’’ she said.

Egbemode explained that the announced schedule applies only to primary and secondary schools, adding that tertiary institutions were also expected to reopen on Sept. 21, but required to plan their schedules.

She said stakeholders were to continue to fine-tune their preparations in the coming days toward ensuring seamless enforcement of the announced schedule.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
flood:-osun-govt-warns-residents-against-blockage-of-waterways
FloodOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Flood: Osun Govt Warns Residents Against Blockage Of Waterways

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

By Sodiq Yusuf

The State Government of Osun has warned residents of the state against dumping of refuse in drainages, streams and rivers to prevent flooding.

The indiscriminate dumping of refuse in the waterways, according to the Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment and Sanitation, Hon. Rufus Oyegbile, is mostly responsible for flooding in the state.

Oyegbile, according to the Press Officer in the Ministry of Environment, Mrs. Toyin Adeoye, stated this on Wednesday during the flag-off of dredging of waterways in some parts of the state.

He added that the people of the state will do themselves lots of good, if they keep the waterways free of debris, as it will allow for free flow of water.

Oyegbile stated that the dredging was being done to widen the streams and rivers and clear blockages, swamp buggy to prevent the occurrence of flood in the state, following persistent warnings from the Nigeria Metrological Agency (NiMet).

According to him, the administration of Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola has taken a bold step to dredge streams and rivers in areas that are prone to flood, saying the exercise will take place in about 12 locations in Osogbo; while other local governments would also benefit from the exercise.

The Special Adviser said the dredging exercise would take place at Oke-ljetu, Lake 264, Rasco, Shehushehu, Fiwasaye and  Iludun rivers in Osogbo and Olorunda local governments of the state.

Other rivers to be dredged are Opa in Ile-Ife, Esinmirin and Oba in Iwo and Yemoja Mogimogi in Isokan Local Government.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Environment and Sanitation, Hon Sola Oladepo, explained the dredging exercise was in collaboration with the Association of Local Government of Nigeria in the state to guide against the impending flood.

Oladepo implored residents of the state to comply with the environmental rules and regulations by making their environment clean always.

In his address, ALGON Chairman in the state, Hon Abiodun Idowu, said the local government chairmen decided to join forces with the state government to prevent flood in order to save lives and properties.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
osun-congratulates-citizens-on-29th-anniversary
FeaturedheroOsunOsun @29POLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Osun Congratulates Citizens On 29th Anniversary

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The State Government of Osun has congratulated its citizens on the occasion of the 29th year anniversary of the state’s creation.

It noted the steady growth of the State since 1991, and urged citizens to remain steadfast in supporting good governance.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Mrs Funke Egbemode, the government appreciated its citizens for being people of peace and understanding, adding that these values have contributed to the achievements that have accrued to the state over the years.

The statement read in part: “The State government of Osun, on this important occasion of the State’s anniversary, appreciates its citizens at home and abroad for their contributions to the development of the State since its creation.

“The government most especially acknowledges the consistent alertness of its citizens in ensuring ang guiding good governance in the 29 years existence of the state. Osun has been able to protect its values and remain one of the most peaceful and investment-friendly states in spite of challenges through the years.  We are a hardworking, steadfast people,  proud of our heritage and unfazed by the odds we have had to wade through since the state was created. Let us continue to work together to protect  our values and our state.

” We seize this opportunity  to acknowledge the contributions of our past leaders who laid the foundation and building blocks for the development of our dear state. Their vision and sacrifice will continue to be celebrated.

“To achieve the lofty goals set by our founding fathers, the support of the citizens is important . We are strongly committed to building enduring legacies in the State of Osun so we can leave a state that successive generation can be proud of. May the Almighty continue to favour and bless our state.” The statement said.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
cocoa-processing-industry:-osun-govt-issues-termination-notice-to-chinese-companies
Cocoa Industry EdeFeaturedheroOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Cocoa Processing Industry: Osun Govt Issues Termination Notice To Chinese Companies

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

By Ismaeel Uthman

The State Government of Osun has issued termination notice to the Chinese companies managing the Cocoa Products Industry, Ede over the abandonment of the place.

OSUN DEFENDER gathered that the termination notice was issued to the two Chinese partners “Golden Monkey and Skyrun Ltd in the first week of July this year.

The Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, Mr. Henry Olanipekun, confirmed the notice, saying that the Chinese investors have not responded to the termination notice given to them to unwind the partnership which had expired.

According to Olanipekun, who spoke with the medium on Tuesday, the Ministry of Justice has begun legal process to address the matter.

He explained that the state government decided to terminate the Memorandum of Understanding signed with the two Chinese partners because of the abandonment of the industry, which is a breach of agreement.

Olanipekun stated that his ministry is on investment drive for the administration of Governor Gboyega Oyetola and as such, would not watch a valuable Cocoa Products Industry in Ede to suffer abandonment.

In a bid to ensure that the huge investment is put to maximum use, Olanipekun said the government has decided to take over the industry and work with any reliable investor that is interested in partnering with the state.

Similarly, the Director-General of the Bureau of Social Services, Mr. Richard Tinubu has condemned what he described as reckless abandonment of the company, thereby making it unproductive despite its huge potentials.

Tinubu, who led a joint inspection team of the BOSS and Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Cooperatives and Empowerment to the industry recently, expressed disappointment on the abandonment of the once buoyant industry for more than two years by the Chinese investors without recourse to the MoU signed with the state government.

He said it was saddening that the industry which ought to be creating wealth and generating employment was abandoned to rot away.

The BOSS DG lamented that what the state government has lost in terms of employment of the citizenry and massive returns of revenue from the company to the government cannot be quantified.

OSUN DEFENDER has in its August 13 edition reported that the Cocoa Products Industry in Ede had been abandoned by the Chinese investors.

The Chinese investors running the company abandoned it since 2018 without informing the state government, until 2020 when a letter was sent to Governor Adegboyega Oyetola to inform him of the suspension of their operations.

Currently, the facilities at the company are being used as stores for COVID-19 relief items donated to the State Government of Osun.

The Chinese investors had abandoned it for mining activities at Itagunmodi in Atakunmose East Local Government of the state, before finally leaving the facility in January this year

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
covid-19:-osun-govt-reopens-hotels,-relaxation-centres,-others-after-five-months
FeaturedHotelsOsunOsun COVID-19POLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

COVID-19: Osun Govt Reopens Hotels, Relaxation Centres, Others After Five Months

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The government of the State of Osun has ordered the reopening of hotels, and other categories of relaxation centres across the state, after five months of lockdown, to contain the spread of COVID-19 pandemic.

Other businesses that were ordered to commence activities include hairdressing salons and barbing shops.

Recall that the hospitality industry in the state, and other business ventures had remained closed since March, after confirming an index case and subsequent spike in the number of cases.

The Deputy Governor and Chairman state technical committee on Covid-19, Mr Benedict Alabi, announced the decision as the next phase of easing down the imposed lockdown in the state.

Alabi, announced this at a meeting with the representatives of owners of hotels, bars, relaxation joints and others in the industry across the state, held at the governor’s office, Abere.

He explained that the decision to reopen those line of businesses was taken at the state executive council meeting presided over by Governor Adegboyega Oyetola.

According to him, the essence of the meeting with stakeholders in the industry was to formally and adequately communicate to them necessary protocols required to prevent further spread of the dreaded disease after reopening.

Alabi, also announced that there would be free online registration for all the operators in the industry as from 28th August, while the enforcement would begin from the first day of September.

The Deputy Governor said this would guarantee proper record, monitoring and control of the activities in the hospitality industry in Osun.

He stressed that the Protocols that must be observed by the operators in the industry for the reopening of their businesses include the use of face masks by all the occupants of business premises at all times, adequate provision of hand washing equipment with running water and hand sanitizer that must be situated at the entrances.

Other guidelines are, social distancing of about 4 feet minimum to be maintained always and all social spaces to be operated at 50% capacity, while all the food handlers must put on comfortable breathing face masks at all times, adding that any customer without face mask must not be granted entry.

The Deputy Governor also added that there must be no night party, as he warned that failure to comply by any operator in the industry would warrant immediate closure of such business premises with fines imposed before reopening.

He said:” The decision to close down your businesses as at that time was very regrettable, but in the best interest of everyone, we took the decision then in order to protect the lives of our people against Coronavirus, which is still ravaging the entire world.

” We really appreciate you for your cooperation and support in the last five months; we want to assure you that Governor Adegboyega Oyetola’s administration will never relent in it’s effort to prioritize heathy living and the well being of the people of Osun.

” This meeting was to communicate to you, the protocols that you must always observe for reopening of your businesses for the safety of everyone against this disease.

” Let us follow these protocols and anyone who violates these rules would be sanctioned accordingly”, Alabi asserted .

He therefore added that the state government has been able to manage the global pandemic effectively with about less than 15 deaths recorded so far, against earlier predictions, attributing the feat to the total commitment and proactiveness of government and cooperation and support of the people of Osun.

Present at the meeting were the commissioner for health, Dr Rafiu Wusamotu, Commissioner for Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Babatunde Olawale, Special Adviser to the Governor on public health, Dr Olasiji Olamiju, and his counterpart on security Mrs Abiodun Ige.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
hijrah:-osun-declares-august-20-public-holiday
FeaturedHijrah 1442OsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Hijrah: Osun Declares August 20 Public Holiday

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The State Government of Osun has declared Thursday, August 20, 2020 as public holiday.

The holiday is to commemorate the beginning of Hijrah 1442 AH.

Funke Egbemode, Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, in a statement on Wednesday enjoined the state Muslim Community to observe the celebration in line with COVID-19 protocols.

Egbemode said “The State Government of Osun wishes to inform the public that Thursday, August 20, 2020, shall be a work-free day across the State.

“This is to commemorate the beginning of a new Islamic year – 1442 AH, and afford the Muslim Community in the State the opportunity of celebrating this year’s Hijrah.

“The State Government wishes to emphasize that the holiday is no approval for large gatherings or unauthorized meetings under any guise. Residents are enjoined to observe the safety guidelines against COVID-19 as outlined by the government and the NCDC.

“All workers in the State are expected to resume work on Friday, August 21, 2020.”

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
covid-19:-osun-govt-to-meet-hoteliers,-owners-of-bars-and-relaxation-joints
Funke EgbemodeOsunOsun COVID-19POLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

COVID-19: Osun Govt To Meet Hoteliers, Owners of Bars and Relaxation Joints

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

Following the decision of the State’s Executive Council to reopen businesses in the hospitality industry as part of the next phase of easing the COVID-19 imposed lockdown, the government will be having a meeting with Representatives of owners of hotels, bars and relaxation Joints.

A statement signed by Funke Egbemode, Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation said this is necessitated by the need to communicate the protocols required to guide the reopening of their businesses.

The meeting is scheduled for tomorrow, Wednesday August 19, 2020, by 10:00am at the EXCO Lounge, State Secretariat, Abere.

Egbemode explained that “Each association is expected to send five Representatives to the meeting to ensure adherence to the physical distancing protocol. Please note that nobody will be allowed entry into the venue unless they have their face masks on.”

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
lautech-assets-in-osun,-oyo-evaluated-as-joint-ownership-dissolution-process-advances
FeaturedheroJoint OwnershipLAUTECHOsunOyo State GovernmentPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

LAUTECH Assets In Osun, Oyo Evaluated As Joint Ownership Dissolution Process Advances

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports
  • Oyo Properties Valued at N99bn, While Osun Hosts N7bn Assets
  • Dissolution Not Best Option – Prof Adeleke, Former VC

By Ismaeel Uthman

The dissolution process of joint ownership of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso initiated by Osun and Oyo state governments has reached an advanced stage.

Investigations by OSUN DEFENDER revealed that an evaluation of the properties of LAUTECH on the soils of both Osun and Oyo states has been concluded.

The assets’ evaluation, according to reliable sources within the university, was carried out by some officials of the National Universities Commission (NUC), as well as Osun and Oyo state governments’ representatives some weeks ago.

The medium gathered that LAUTECH’s properties in Oyo were evaluated at N99bn; while those in Osun were valued at N7bn.

LAUTECH main campus is situated at Ogbomoso, while it has its Teaching Hospitals Complex and College of Health Sciences in Osun.

Findings revealed that details of the assets’ evaluation have been disclosed to the governments of the two states.

However, the Chairman of the five-man committee set up by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State to come up with concrete steps to help terminate the joint ownership of the institution with Osun, Prof Deji Omole declined to comment on the evaluation reports.

When contacted on phone, Omole, Professor of Agriculture at the University of Ibadan, said the committee was not authorised to speak with the press, disclosing that the NUC is heading a Technical Committee on the joint ownership dissolution process.

Also, the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation in the State of Osun, Mrs. Funke Egbemode, said the government would soon provide official information on issues affecting LAUTECH, just as she declined to comment further.

Osun Already Short-changed – Workers

However, some LAUTECH workers, who spoke with OSUN DEFENDER under condition of anonymity, stated that Osun had already been short-changed in the joint ownership dissolution process.

They argued that the university’s assets’ evaluation does not favour Osun, saying that the state would not have the strength to negotiate appropriately eventually.

They said: “Now, they have done the valuation, the LAUTECH properties in Oyo are said to worth N99 billion and those in Osun were valued at N7 billion. Out of the N99 billion, the land domiciled in Oyo is N80bn in the valuation. Oyo will eventually offer Osun a ridiculous amount and set out the terms of payment in instalments.

“We need to tell you that Osun is on the weak side of the discontinuation process, because Oyo has taken over the payment of subvention which is supposed to be the responsibility of both states. Osun should have taken over the payment from July, but Oyo has continued, disregarding Osun.

“The staff and the entire system are now seeing LAUTECH as an Oyo State-owned institution.

“At the end of the day, what is going to be the benefit of Osun in the whole arrangement? Osun is short-changed already. Osun had always been short-changed but it is worse now.

“Osun is running at a loss. The LAUTECH assets domiciled here in Osun are said to be worth only N7bn and the assets Oyo has is over N80bn, what is left on ground to share? You can see the lopsidedness! Those representing Osun in the Evaluation Committee are helpless; they have to value what is on ground. There is nothing they can do about it.

“We think the best thing to do is to see how we can correct these anomalies before the conclusion of the dissolution process. Even if Osun does not have assets, we can look at other things: after all, we have intangible and tangible assets. The goodwill of the institution is there. We are talking about an over 20-year-old university!

“Those are the technical things I believe Osun would have considered because if you look at the way the entire process is structured, it is so lopsided. The truth of the matter is that there is misplacement of priorities.”

Dissolution Not Best Option – Prof Adeleke, Former VC

A former Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Benjamin Adeleke, has said that the dissolution of joint ownership of the institution is not the best option to consider by both Osun and Oyo states government.

According to Adeleke, LAUTECH had been at its best when it was being managed by the two sister-states.

Adeleke attributed the ownership crisis rocking the institution to self-seeking greed, insincerity and over-ambition among stakeholders of the institution.

The former VC, who spoke with OSUN DEFENDER yesterday, said Osun would eventually be at the receiving end if Oyo State takes over the university.

He said: “I personally do not believe in the discontinuation of the joint ownership of LAUTECH by the State of Osun and Oyo State. LAUTECH made her name as the best state-owned university under the joint ownership.

“When I was the VC, LAUTECH was rated among the best 100 universities in Africa and we had students coming from outside the country, which shows that the quality of education and the reputation of the university were very high. In that ranking, LAUTECH was 76 and many federal universities were not on that list.

“The origin of the university is that the old Oyo State wanted an avenue to get admission for her students and that continued to be the vision of the founding stakeholders, even after Osun was carved out. And the State of Osun students and Oyo State students in terms of population was about 50:50 or 49/51 in favour of Oyo state in LAUTECH.

“If the separation is effected, that means not less than 10,000 Osun students might not be able to get admission. So, on that basis, I don’t think it will be advantageous for Osun to pull out”.

Alumni Call On Osun, Oyo Govts To Prioritize Students’, Workers’ Plight

President of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso Alumni Association, Mr. Solomon Onilede, has called on Osun and Oyo state governments to strongly consider the interest of students and reputation of the institution in the process of dissolving the institution’s joint ownership.

According to Onilede, the LAUTECH’s alumni are much concerned about the progress of the university and would support any programme or policy that would move the ivory tower forward.

Onilede in an interview with OSUN DEFENDER yesterday said students and graduates of LAUTECH are tired of the constant crisis rocking the institution and would prefer an arrangement that will restore the university’s glory.

Asked his opinion on the joint ownership dissolution process between Osun and Oyo state governments, Onilede said: “As major stakeholders, our position is for the university to move forward without issues. If the two states can run the university peacefully, it is fine by us.

“Our stand and that of others holding the certificate of the university is that they should agree on who is going to own it and give each other the necessary support. We don’t want a kind of LAUTECH that we have been seeing in the last three, four years again.

“Whichever state that will own LAUTECH at the end of the day should run it in a way that the students and alumni will be proud. I don’t think there would be any problem from either of the states that would eventually take over the institution.  Whatsoever the resolution is, the future of the students and staff of the university must be taken care of.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
osun-nup-urges-members-to-stay-safe,-wants-govt-to-pay-entitlements
Nigeria Union of PensionersOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Osun NUP Urges Members To Stay Safe, Wants Govt To Pay Entitlements

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

By Solomon Odeniyi

The Nigeria Union of Pensioners in the State of Osun has called on its members to stay safe and ensure they adhere strictly to the guidelines rolled out by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and the state government on the ravaging Coronavirus pandemic.

The group said it was necessary for members to abide by the guidelines, as many of them are susceptible to contract the deadly virus due to their old age.

In statement jointly signed by the Osun Chairman and Secretary, of the NUP, Alhaji Ganiyu Salawu and Comrade Lawrence Aina, the union also appealed to the Governor of the state, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, to pay the pensioners’ entitlements, saying that some of them were dying in silence.

A copy of the press statement made available to OSUN DEFENDER in Osogbo, yesterday reads: “We call on the Governor Gboyega Oyetola-led administration in the state not to take the pensioners’ entitlements with levity. The ugly situation some pensioners are passing through is pathetic. They are finding it difficult to attend to some domestic issues when they don’t have money.

“We are using this medium to appeal to Governor Oyetola to pay pensioners’ entitlements which they have worked for, as these set of people are dying in silence.

“Governor Oyetola is the people’s governor who has always been working for the betterment of the people, we want him to extend his hand of fellowship to us too before it is too late.

“Up till now, we pensioners have not been benefiting from the state government’s palliative since commencement of the COVID-19 pandemic

“Even though we have seen laudable interventions by the state government to cushion the negative economic impact of the pandemic, but however, members of the NUP across the state should be carried along by Governor Oyetola.”

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
chinese-investors-abandon-cocoa-products-industry-in-ede
Cocoa Products IndustryEdeFeaturedheroOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Chinese Investors Abandon Cocoa Products Industry In Ede

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports
  • Factory Turned To Store For COVID-19 Relief Items
  • Efforts Ongoing To Put It Back To Use – Govt

By Ismaeel Uthman

The Cocoa Products Industry Nigeria Limited  in Ede, (SKYRUN COCOA FACTORY) has suspended its operations.

OSUN DEFENDER gathered that the set of Chinese running the company abandoned it in 2018 without informing the state government until 2020 when a letter was sent to Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, informing him of the suspension of their operations.

Currently, the facilities at the company are being used as stores for COVID-19 relief items donated to the State Government of Osun.

It would be recalled that the company was revived by the Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola administration after 15-years of being in moribund state.

In a letter directed to the Governor, the management of the factory stated that the company was facing operational challenges, which forced the company to go on temporary shutdown.

The letter reads: “The company and its parent company have been facing a series of operational challenges since September 2018, which forced the company to bring back its staff in Nigeria and temporarily shut down the SKYRUN COCOA FACTORY. The specific reasons are explained below.

“Firstly, it’s because of the trade war between China and the US. The parent company’s main customers are American companies and 90% of its products are exported to the United States. Due to the trade war initiated by the US government against China round after round, the tariffs on products exported to the US increased sharply, which directly led to the unsalable products of the parent company. With a large number of goods in the warehouse, it seriously affected the normal operation of the company.

“As a result, the parent company decided to suspend production activities at the plant in Nigeria. When the trade war situation between China and the US eases and the tariff is lower, the parent company will continue to come to Nigeria to resume processing activities. Of course, the company has to get through all these difficulties caused by this first.

“Secondly, due to the recent outbreak of the new Coronavirus epidemic situation in China, the Chinese government requires enterprises not to rest their normal production activities within a certain period in order to reduce the flow of people in case causing a wider range of infections.

“Therefore, our parent company and chocolate manufacturers as well as other enterprises are also in the state of halt in production. We estimated that the deadline is going to be longer than expected, further exacerbating the company’s difficult situation and further delaying the resumption of production at the SKYRUN COCOA FACTORY.”

Efforts Ongoing to Put It Back To Use – Govt

The Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Cooperatives, Mr. Henry Olanipekun expressed government’s displeasure on the attitude of the management of the company, saying that it has violated the agreement between it and the government.

Olanipekun said: “The Chinese have abandoned the place and we have initiated a process of calling off the agreement between the company and the state government. They have run afoul of the agreement.

“If they have abandoned the place for two years without any form of communication with the government, it means they don’t know what they are doing or they are no longer interested in running the place. As far as we are concerned, they have abandoned the joint venture.

“We are taking appropriate steps to normalise the activities at the company, whether they will come back to do the needful or they hands-off, so that we can make profitable usage of the place. We are working seriously on getting the place back to work.”

Expatriates Involved Are Raiders, Shoddy In Dealings – Board Chairman

In his reaction, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the company, Dr. Adewale Adeeyo described the current status of the company as unfortunate and a reflection of the shady and dishonest attitude of the Chinese people managing the company.

Adeeyo, in an interview with OSUN DEFENDER yesterday stated: “The Chinese are very dishonest businessmen. They came and didn’t bring enough money and materials, and they were very shady in their dealings. They just disappeared once without notice. Members of the Board of Directors earned nothing for the three years that we were there.

“They promised that we would be taken to China for a meeting and we would be given our entitlements but that never happened. They did not tell us anything, they just vanished. They are unreasonable businessmen. They don’t want to do anything properly.

“They promised to invest over $200million and I think they invested $6 million dollars in the company. They brought a little piece of equipment to upgrade what we had on ground, they worked a little bit, trying to make cocoa butter and stopped. They just left. They operated between 2014 and 2018.”

When OSUN DEFENDER visited the company yesterday, the environment was bushy and deserted, except for two guards at the place.

It was gathered that the Chinese investors abandoned the company to venture into gold mining operations at Itagunmodi in Atakunmosa West Local Government area of the state.

Some of the workers with the company, who spoke with the medium under condition of anonymity, said the Chinese investors were producing cocoa butter, cocoa powder, cake and cocoa liquor before they abandoned the place.

According to the workers, the investors stopped operations early in 2019 for gold mining and eventually left the company in January this year.

They disclosed that about 120 of them were working in the company before it was shut down.

When asked if there was shortage of materials for production, the workers said there were enough materials, saying that the investors exported the remaining cocoa in the company to China.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
sallah:-osun-bans-eid-prayers
Eid-el-KabirFeaturedOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Sallah: Osun Bans Eid Prayers

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The State Government of Osun has announced that there would be no Eid prayers on Friday, July 31 due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

The government however in line with the existing safety protocols and guidelines stated that Ju’maat Services are permitted.

Prince Wole Oyebamiji, Secretary to the State Government disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

According to the statement, “The State Government of Osun having appraised how the state is currently faring with respect to the global health emergency, vis-a-vis the fact that Eid-el- Kabir and Juma’at fall on the same day, has announced that there would be no Eid congregation or prayers on Friday July 31. However, Juma’at service will hold in line with the existing safety protocols and guidelines.

“The State of Osun is still recording rising figures of confirmed COVID-19 cases amidst an active community transmission stage of the pandemic. This coupled with the fact that people whose COVID-19 status has not been ascertained would be travelling into the State from different parts of the country, in the spirit of the celebration.

“The State cannot afford the impact of any form of large gathering such as the kind expected at praying grounds and the associated difficulties of enforcing the safety protocols against COVID-19

“Our health managers are also worried by the recent surge in active cases , and have warned that the State could experience galloping figures due to continued disobedience of safety protocols if it allows any kind of specially high density gatherings or congregation.

“The State Government does not want its citizens exposed to this dangerous infection, especially among the aged and those with underlying health conditions.

“The State Government of Osun is not relenting in its fight to curtail the spread of the coronavirus, and to rid the State of it. The government is, and will continue to take necessary actions towards ensuring the safety and security of its people.

“The Governor and State Government of Osun wish all Muslim faithful a happy Eid-el-Kabir celebration ahead.”

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
{just-in}-sallah:-osun-bans-eid-prayers
Eid-el-KabirFeaturedOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

{JUST IN} Sallah: Osun Bans Eid Prayers

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The State Government of Osun has announced that there would be no Eid prayers on Friday, July 31 due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

The government however in line with the existing safety protocols and guidelines stated that Ju’maat Services are permitted.

Prince Wole Oyebamiji, Secretary to the State Government disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.

According to the statement, “The State Government of Osun having appraised how the state is currently faring with respect to the global health emergency, vis-a-vis the fact that Eid-el- Kabir and Juma’at fall on the same day, has announced that there would be no Eid congregation or prayers on Friday July 31. However, Juma’at service will hold in line with the existing safety protocols and guidelines.

“The State of Osun is still recording rising figures of confirmed COVID-19 cases amidst an active community transmission stage of the pandemic. This coupled with the fact that people whose COVID-19 status has not been ascertained would be travelling into the State from different parts of the country, in the spirit of the celebration.

“The State cannot afford the impact of any form of large gathering such as the kind expected at praying grounds and the associated difficulties of enforcing the safety protocols against COVID-19

“Our health managers are also worried by the recent surge in active cases , and have warned that the State could experience galloping figures due to continued disobedience of safety protocols if it allows any kind of specially high density gatherings or congregation.

“The State Government does not want its citizens exposed to this dangerous infection, especially among the aged and those with underlying health conditions.

“The State Government of Osun is not relenting in its fight to curtail the spread of the coronavirus, and to rid the State of it. The government is, and will continue to take necessary actions towards ensuring the safety and security of its people.

“The Governor and State Government of Osun wish all Muslim faithful a happy Eid-el-Kabir celebration ahead.”

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
schools-reopening:-osun-announces-resumption-date
FeaturedheroOsunPOLITICSSchools ReopeningState Government of OsunUncategorized

Schools Reopening: Osun Announces Resumption Date

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The State Government of Osun has ordered teachers in the state to resume on Tuesday, August 4, while final year students to resume on Thursday, August 6.

The West Africa School Certificate Examinations (WAEC) are expected to commence on August 17.

The Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Funke Egbemode, made announced the guidelines for the partial reopening of schools to students for final year students on Monday after the virtual State Executive Council meeting.

Egbemode, while outlining the details of the partial reopening, said a total of 188 schools consisting 13,177 students, will reopen under this arrangement.

Highlighting the protocols expected for successful management of the process, Egbemode said: “Parents are expected to provide face masks/nose covers for their children or wards, while Principals and Proprietors of Schools are expected to ensure a tidy environment with desks arranged at least two meters apart. This social distancing shall be ensured by Class Wardens.

“The Ministry of Education shall provide buckets, soap, hand sanitizers, thermometer and also fumigate all schools. The Ministry of Health shall also provide Vitamin C tablets for students. NCDC or the Ministry of Health should be alerted in case of any sign of infection in any of the schools”, she stated.

Part of the decision was to afford students a two-week preparatory period for the West African Examination Council (WAEC), which commences August 17, 2020.

Speaking further on the scope of the reopening, Egbemode said that this reopening will not include schools that have opted to take the National Examination Council (NECO).

Egbemode said the council also resolved that “School owners and invigilators with suspended sentences of examination malpractice, are at risk of summary dismissal in the event of any new infractions during this year’s examinations”.

She disclosed that the unanimous decision was reached at a virtual consultative meeting between the Federal Ministry of Education, Honourable Commissioners of Education of the 36 States, the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), the Proprietors of Private Schools and Chief Executives of examination bodies.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
osun-govt-to-spend-n9.4bn-on-covid-19
2020 BudgetAdegboyega OyetolaEconomyFeaturedOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Osun Govt To Spend N9.4bn On COVID-19

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

By Solomon Odeniyi

The State Government of Osun will spend the sum of N9, 442,503,260.00 on fighting the Coronavirus pandemic and provision of post-COVID-19 recovery activities.

The sum, which is part of the revised 2020 budget of the state amounts to 11.5% of the financial appropriation bill.

Governor Adegboyega Oyetola had on Tuesday written to the House of Assembly on the amendment of the N119.6 billion 2020 budget, which he proposed to reduce to N82.2billion.

The amendment, according to Oyetola in the letter read by the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Hon Timothy Owoeye at plenary, is necessary due to present economic realities the world over.

Owoeye expressed his conviction that the reviewed budget will impact positively on the lives of the people of the state.

The letter reads in part: “Mr. Speaker and distinguished members will recall that year 2020 Appropriation bill was passed into law on Tuesday, 24th December 2019 and assented to on 30th December, 2019. The size of the budget was One-hundred and Nineteen Billion, Five-hundred and Fifty Million, Four-hundred and One Thousand, Forty Naira.”

“However, the global COVID-19 pandemic, which has badly affected all sectors of the economy, has paved way for a review of the year 2020 budget. It is pertinent to inform you that the global lockdown which doesn’t exonerate the State of Osun has affected all the revenue variables including the IGR and proceed from the Federation Account.

“As a result of this, the year 2020 approved budget of all agencies of government has been reviewed downward to accommodate the current social and economic realities with focus on COVID-19 responsive activities.”

Owoeye stated the governor in the draft amendment bill hinted that the revised budget had already been over- stretched, considering the drastic reduction in the Internally-Generated Revenue of the state and the Federation Accounts Allocation fund as a result of the lockdown multiplier effect.

He noted: “The amendment is inevitable; the drop in revenue has greatly affected every facet of the economy. The need to streamline the approved 2020 budget to the current social and economic realities of COVID-19 is sacrosanct.

“The streamlining of all programmes of government and the need to focus the state’s priorities toward management and recovery from the pandemic makes it compulsory that the budget be reviewed.”

At the end of the second reading, the amendment to the 2020 Appropriation Bill of the State of Osun was sent to the Committee on Finance and Appropriation for further legislative scrutiny.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
osun-may-discontinue-joint-ownership-of-lautech
FeaturedheroLAUTECHOsunOyo State GovernmentPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Osun May Discontinue Joint Ownership Of LAUTECH

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports
  • Dissolution of Joint Ownership In Process – Oyo Govt
  • We’re Ready To Let Go If Conditions Are Favourable to Us – Osun Govt

By Ismaeel Uthman

There are indications that the joint ownership of the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso might be dissolved by both Osun and Oyo state governments in few months to come.

The process of discontinuing the joint ownership of the institution is ongoing between Osun and Oyo state governments, according to investigations by OSUN DEFENDER.

A framework to look at LAUTECH holistically with regard to the joint ownership, continuation of joint ownership and the severance of joint ownership has been set in motion by the governments of the two states.

This is just as the Osun Government declared that it was ready to let go of the institution, if the terms and conditions presented are favourable, with a stance that it would not allow itself to be arm-twisted or shortchanged in the discontinuation process.

Oyo State Government had for over two decades been making efforts to force Osun out of the joint ownership of LAUTECH and take sole possession of the institution.

The state’s taking sole ownership of the institution formed an integral part of campaign promises rolled out by Governor Seyi Makinde during the election process that brought him into office.

LAUTECH was originally established on April 23, 1990 as Oyo State University of Technology, but creation of Osun from Oyo in August 1991 led to the change of the institution’s name to Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, with the two states having joint ownership over it.

While the ownership crisis was averagely and maturely managed during the progressives’ governments in both Osun and Oyo states, it has always been a different ball game when the governors of both states are not from the same political party.

Oyo Government and Ogbomoso, the hosting community of the institution in particular have not for once ceased from mounting pressures on Osun to withdraw from LAUTECH’s joint ownership through some legitimate actions and sometimes blackmails and manipulations.

However, the ownership crisis might be put to an end in no distant time, if the ongoing discussions between the two owner-states are successful.

Dissolution of Joint Ownership In Process – Oyo Govt

Oyo State Government had last week disclosed that the dissolution of the joint ownership of LAUTECH was almost done.

The Commissioner for Education in the state, Mr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye stated this last Friday while receiving a delegation from the Ladoke Akintola Foundation in his office.

Olaleye reportedly said: “The process of the dissolution of the joint ownership of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology is in its concluding stage.”

This is coming eight months after the inauguration of five-man committee set up by Governor Seyi Makinde to come up with concrete steps to help terminate the joint ownership of LAUTECH with Osun.

Makinde said Oyo State bore no grudge against Osun over the situation in the institution, but noted that it was obvious that the joint ownership of the institution by the two states could no longer work.

-We’re Ready To Let Go If Conditions Are Favourable to Us – Osun Govt

However, State Government of Osun has said that it would discontinue the LAUTECH joint ownership if a mutual consensus is reached with the Oyo State Government.

The Commissioner for Education in the state, Hon Folorunso Oladoyin in an exclusive interview with OSUN DEFENDER on Tuesday disclosed that discussions were ongoing between the owner-states where issues of ownership and the future of the ivory tower were being raised.

According to Oladoyin, the State of Osun would cease as joint owner of the citadel of learning when Oyo State agrees to its terms and conditions.

He said: “We have been on the joint ownership crisis of LAUTECH for long. It became pronounced in 2010. We continued to manage the crisis and it was possible because Oyo and Osun were being ruled by governors of the same political party. Now, Governor Seyi Makinde said he does not want us again. Can you force yourself on somebody who does not want you? Is it possible?

“We appealed to him to let us continue together and he said no. Oyo has over 90 percent of the University on its soil and they say they do not want us anymore, and sometimes possessions can be stronger than ownership, even in Law.

“The National Universities Commission (NUC) came in to mediate, but Oyo insisted it does not want us anymore. And we said if you don’t want us again, put your terms and conditions on the table. If they are in tandem with ours, then we would agree to walk away.

“If it is not acceptable, we will tell them. It is a 29-year old investment. If the two of us put our conditions on the table, then we can come to a conclusion. If we cannot come to a conclusion and there is need to go to an arbiter, so be it.”

Oladoyin further stated: “It is an elementary principle of law about a willing partner and an unwilling one. What Oyo has so far been doing is that of an unwilling partner. They have put on the framework to look into everything. Let them put their terms and conditions on the table, if it is acceptable to us, we would gladly walk away.

“But bear it in mind that we will not throw away a 29-year-investment just like that. The terms and conditions for separation must be mutually accepted. We will not be arm-twisted and we will not be shortchanged.

“The terms of separation must be fully accepted by both sides. Nobody will push us out, nobody will kick us out. If we must leave at all, it must be on terms and conditions that are mutually acceptable.”

When asked what Osun stands to gain in dissolving the LAUTECH joint ownership, Oladoyin said: “We have been holding series of meetings. It is premature to tell the press what we stand to gain if the separation is finally agreed. We are not doing anything in secrecy.

“Whenever we conclude, we would let the public know what we have done and what Osun is benefitting from the process. Nothing is being done in secret. All I can tell you is that the process to look at LAUTECH holistically is ongoing. We have set up a framework to look at LAUTECH, the Joint ownership, continuation of joint ownership and the severance of joint ownership. We will look at the two and weigh them. Whichever is in our best interest, we will adopt.”

It would be recalled that the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi had stated a while ago that the joint ownership of LAUTECH could not work, calling on the two states to put an end to the joint ownership of the institution.

According to Oba Adeyemi, the joint ownership of LAUTECH is the source of persistent crises rocking the university, adding that the issue over the years had undermined the progress of the institution.

The traditional ruler stated that the differences in political parties, ideologies and policies of both states will not allow the two state governors to agree on some issues that affect the university.

He said: “Two states cannot manage one university successfully. Even when they are from the same political party, they will have different policies.

“The education policies introduced by former Governor Rauf Aregbesola have been cancelled by Oyetola. So, there is no way the two states can manage the university successfully”.

He urged Governors Oyetola and Seyi Makinde of Osun and Oyo states to consider ceding the university to either of them and end the joint ownership agreement in the interest of the students and the general public.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
osun-revises-2020-budget,-reduces-it-to-n82.2bn
2020 BudgetFeaturedheroOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Osun Revises 2020 Budget, Reduces It To N82.2bn

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The State Government of Osun on Tuesday proposed to scale down its 2020 budget from one hundred and nineteen billion, five hundred and fifty million Naira (#119.6bn) to Eighty two billion, two hundred and twenty nine million (#82.2bn).

The appropriation ammendment Bill 2020 by the Governor of Osun, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola seeking for a review of the already passed 2020 budget passed through the second reading at the house plenary.

The Speaker, Osun House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Timothy Owoeye had read on the floor a letter from the governor titled “2020 Ammended Appropriation bill of the state of Osun”.

It read in part”Mr Speaker and distinguished members will recall that year 2020 Appropriation bill was passed into law on Tuesday, 24th December 2019 and assented to on 30th December, 2019.

“The size of the budget was one hundred and nineteen billion, five hundred and fifty million, four hundred and one thousand, forty Naira.

“However, the global COVID-19 pandemic which has badly affected all sectors of the economy has paved way for a review of the year 2020 budget. It is pertinent to inform you that the global lockdown which doesn’t exonerate the state of Osun has affected all the revenue variables including the IGR and proceed from the Federation account.

“As a result of this, the year 2020 approved budget of all Agencies of government has been reviewed downward to accommodate the current social and economic realities with focus on COVID-19 responsive activities”.

The Speaker added that the presented draft bill in the sum of #82,229,070,760.00 will have #9,442,503,260.00 which is 11.5percent is dedicated to fighting COVID and post COVID recovery activities.

He stated that the governor in the draft ammendment Bill hinted that the revised budget has already been over- stretched considering the drastic reduction in the IGR of the state and the Federation Account Allocation fund as a result of the lockdown multiplier effect.

The bill having scaled through the second reading, the Speaker said, “The ammendment is inevitable, the drop in revenue has greatly affected every facet of the economy. The need to streamline the approved 2020 budget to the current social and economic realities of COVID-19 is sacrosanct.

“The streamlining of all programs of government and the need to focus the state’s priorities toward management and recovery from the pandemic makes it compulsory that the budget be reviewed”.

The budget was however committed to the House Committee on finance and appropriation.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
breaking:-osun-revises-2020-budget,-reduces-it-to-n82.2bn
2020 BudgetFeaturedheroOsunPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

BREAKING: Osun Revises 2020 Budget, Reduces It To N82.2bn

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

The State government of Osun has revised its 2020 appropriation bill by 37.3 billion naira from 119.5 billion naira to 82.2 billion naira. This was contained in a letter sent to the state House of Assembly by Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, who sought the passage of the bill by members of the house. Details subsequently.

The State government of Osun has revised its 2020 appropriation bill by 37.3 billion naira from 119.5 billion naira to 82.2 billion naira.

This was contained in a letter sent to the state House of Assembly by Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, who sought the passage of the bill by members of the house.

Details subsequently.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
finally,-govt-stops-osun-united,-osun-babes-players’,-staff-salaries
FeaturedOsun Babes FcOsun United FCPOLITICSSPORTSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Finally, Govt Stops Osun United, Osun Babes Players’, Staff Salaries

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

By Solomon Odeniyi

The State Government of Osun has carried out

​its plans to disband Osun United and Osun

​Babes, by suspending the salaries of players and officials of the football clubs.

OSUN DEFENDER had last week reported that the state government was planning to disband the teams as part of its restructuring efforts, as explained by the Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Mr. Yemi Lawal.

The plan, which has been generating outrage from sports lovers within and outside the state, came to the fore on Tuesday when the government, through a letter signed by the Acting General Manager, Osun State Sports Council, Mr. Rotimi Dunmoye, said it had stopped the salaries of players of the two teams and their staff members.

Addressed to the Secretary, Osun United FC, the letter, which was sighted by OSUN DEFENDER, directed that payments of salaries should be suspended forthwith as approved by the governor, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola.

Mr. Tajudeen Amodu, the Media officer of the team, confirmed the letter, saying that it was from the Ministry of Youths and Sports, through Osun State Sports Council, which confirmed the suspension of other salaries from where the state football clubs and athletes are being paid.

Amodu said the President of Osun United, Chief Ademola Adesina has urged Governor Oyetola to consider global best practice, which forbids abrupt stoppage of salaries of footballers who are under contractual agreements with a club.

Adesina was also said to have enjoined the Governor to emulate other states in Nigeria which continue to promptly pay salaries of the state-owned teams since the suspension of sporting activities due to the outbreak of Coronavirus pandemic.

The former Super Eagles player, who lauded the relentless efforts of the state government on the regular payment of workers’ salaries, appealed to Oyetola to consider the multiplier effects the salary stoppage will have at the period when citizens are finding it difficult to provide means of livelihood due to the challenges of COVID-19.

“Apart from the fact that contracts of our players have not been officially terminated, if salaries are stopped during this period, the living standard of beneficiaries from this medium will nosedive because of the current situation of the country which has been badly affected by COVID-19.

“We therefore appeal to the State Government to look into the matter and lift the suspension on the salaries of Osun United, Osun Babes, their boards as well as contract coaches and athletes in the state”, concluded Chief Adesina.

Speaking with the medium, Osun United Captain, Akeem Olalere appealed to the state government to reconsider its decision, saying that it would have devastating effect on the players.

Olalere said: “The players are unhappy with the decision.  It is not what we all were expecting.  Our contracts will expire in December, but we can’t go into war with the government.

“We can only appeal to the state government to consider the players. The hardship occasioned by the Coronavirus is already telling on us. We have dependants and if our salaries are not paid, it will worsen issues. Our only source of livelihood is football and now that activities have been banned nation-wide, the development makes it difficult for us to eke out a living for ourselves.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
osun-extends-relaxation-of-lockdown-by-two-weeks
FeaturedheroOsunOsun Total LockdownPOLITICSState Government of OsunUncategorized

Osun Extends Relaxation Of Lockdown By Two Weeks

by Bioreports
written by Bioreports

Governor Adegboyega Oyetola of the State of Osun, has extended the relaxation of curfew imposed to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the State by another two weeks, effective from Friday,  June 19.

This follows the expiration of the initial two-week relaxation ordered by the Governor on June 5. Following the relaxation two weeks ago, curfew  now runs from 9 p.m to 5 a.m daily.

Oyetola made the announcement in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ismail Omipidan on Thursday in Osogbo, the State capital.

He, however, expressed displeasure at the level of compliance with some of the relaxation guidelines, especially the wearing of face masks in public places.

The governor, therefore, warned that worship centres and markets that fail to adhere to the guidelines would be shut down by the State government.

“COVID-19 is real and Osun is not out of the woods yet. We have noticed that many of our citizens are brazenly flouting the safety guidelines put in place to curb the spread of virus in the State.

“The government will not fold its hands while a few people jeopardise the mileage we have recorded so far in this fight. It is not yet uhuru and strict enforcement will commence immediately. Any worship centre,  market or motor park where people do not wear face mask or maintain social distancing will be shut down,” the governor said.

He  also reminded the citizens that the ban on inter-state travels remains in force, noting that any motor park that fails to comply with the directive will be shut down as well.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts