The Oyo State Government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to upholding the Rule of Law across the state, adding that all residents, irrespective of tribe or affiliation, must comply with the established regulations.

This was stated by the Chairperson, Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Agency, (OYRLEA), Hon. Justice Aderonke Aderemi (rtd.), recently in Ibadan.

She also said that the Authority was mandated to enforce existing laws related to environmental protection, road traffic management, and the prohibition of open grazing and rearing in Oyo State.

Justice Aderemi clarified that these laws are not new but have been in existence within the legal frameworks, stressing that the Authority has been tasked to enforce an orderly, safe, and clean state in line with Governor Makinde’s vision.

She described the Authority as the “new sheriff in town,” with the mission to crack down on violators of anti-open grazing laws, environmental regulations and traffic management laws, among others.

Aderemi called on herders to vacate all farm settlements in the state, saying that the farm settlements are mainly for farming purposes, and it is illegal to graze cows, sheep, goats, and even chickens on any farm settlements in the state.

She maintained that
the state government, has the prerogative to appoint whosoever it wishes as Board Members in any of her Laws, adding that no individual or association has any right or entitlement regarding the constitution of the Board.

The Chairperson said for every arrest and apprehension, the Mobile Courts and Tribunals are strategically positioned to prosecute offenders, emphasizing that counsels are available to defend or apply for bail as the case may be, otherwise, a jail term or option of fines awaits such offenders or lawbreakers.

She therefore urged the citizenry to uphold the Rule of Law in the State to avoid being sanctioned.

E-signed:Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Commissioner for Information and Orientation,
Oyo State.

A member of the Oyo State Advisory Council, Barrister Michael Lana, has congratulated Senator Ayo Adeseun, on his turbanning as the Asiwaju and Baba Isale Adinni Musulumi of Ogbomosoland by the Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland on Friday.

The former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, in a congratulatory letter he personally signed, said turbanning of Senator Adeseun whom he described as his leader and boss, is a well deserved recognition of his leadership role and contributions not only to the Islamic religion within Ogbomosoland and across the state but to humanity as a whole.

According to him, the honour is a reward for the former lawmaker who is seen by those who come in contact with him as a promoter of peace within the adherents of Islamic faith in Ogbomosoland and Oyo State, noting that he always wants the best for all human beings.

He added that the honour coming at this time would inspire even more service from Senator Adeseun, stating that his followers would continually see him as a good leader and great gift to humanity.

He said, “I want to join family members and friends all over the world to sincerely congratulate my dear leader and boss, Senator Ayo Adeseun, on his turbanning as the Asiwaju and Baba Isale Musulumi of Ogbomosoland. This honour to me is well deserved as the former member of the House of Representatives and Senator is an embodiment of peace as well as a worthy role model for those coming behind him.

“There is no doubt that his legacies in the spheres of religion and politics would always speak for him and this honour is a recognition through words and deeds of his contributions to the Islamic faith and humanity as a whole.

“I pray that Almighty Allah will grant Senator Ayo Adeseun the wisdom, wherewithal and good health to faithfully discharge his new role as the Asiwaju and Baba Isale Musulumi of Ogbomosoland.”

The Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni has commended the former Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Professor Oladapo Afolabi, CFR for the construction of an ultra modern chapel auditorium at Iyana -offa.

She said the newly constructed church auditorium symbolizes a beacon of hope, sanctuary for spiritual growth and a hub for community service, hinting that, faith will be strengthened and love would be shared.

She stated these at the official naming and dedication ceremony of the ultra-modern church auditorium “Chapel of Grace” constructed by the former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Professor Oladapo Afolabi, CFR with the Theme: “Be Relevant in your Generation” held at Iyana Offa, Lagelu Local Government area of Oyo State.

The Head of Service said every generation faces unique challenges and opportunities, saying that, God called people to be instruments of positive and impactful change in their generation.

Mrs Olubunmi Oni then congratulated Professor Oladapo Afolabi for writing his name in the hearts of the people and putting smiles on the faces of the people of his community, leaving a legacy that will speak for generations to come.

She pointed out that the present administration in the State under the leadership Engr. Seyi Makinde consistently ensured that the welfare of staff of both serving and retired was not tampered with, adding that, the Governor has actually impacted several lives through regular and prompt payment of salaries and allowances, capacity building at both local and international levels, saying that, the Governor commitment to improving the economic landscape of the State is undeniable.

She posited that Governor Makinde has ensured rapid development of infrastructural facilities of the State and all zones have been linked with durable roads, leaving a great impact on the citizenry and improving the economic development of the State.

The Vicar in charge of the church, Venerable Isaac Olalere said professor Oladapo Afolabi, CFR has built institutions, mentored the next generation and contributed to the growth of the church, hinting that, he has left a lasting legacy.

In his remarks, the former Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Professor Oladapo Afolabi said the ultra modern Church Auditorium stands as a symbol of purpose, service and divine relevance.

Abiodun Atilola, Media Officer to the SSG/HOS

The internal turbulence within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), may have assumed another dimension as the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) block within the party, has raised alarm over what it described as persistent marginalization.

This growing discontent corroborated by an intelligence briefing obtained by from a reliable source, signals a potential rift that could reshape the future of the party.

A high-ranking insider and stalwart of the ANPP block within the party, while speaking on condition of anonymity, laid bare the grievances of the faction.

“Despite our significant contributions to the growth and success of the APC, including the merger that brought three Executive Governors from Borno, Yobe, and Zamfara States, our block has been consistently sidelined and excluded from key decision-making processes,” the source lamented.

This merger, a cornerstone of the APC’s rise to prominence, is now a point of contention as the ANPP faction feels its efforts have been met with indifference and neglect.

The insider emphasized the depth of the disillusionment, “This lack of representation and recognition has led to widespread frustration among our members. We have worked tirelessly to promote the party’s ideals and values, yet our efforts have been met with a wall of silence, leaving us feeling undervalued and unappreciated.”

Sources close to the matter confirm that a high-level meeting of the ANPP block is imminent, driven by the mounting discontent.

The briefing highlights that the block, which played a pivotal role in bolstering the APC’s national presence, is now weighing its options and not limited to including a possible reevaluation of its membership in the party.

“A decision is expected soon, with far reaching implications for the party’s unity and stability,” the briefing notes.

The ANPP block’s frustrations are not isolated grievances but reflect deeper structural issues within the APC, according to the intelligence report.

Key issues outlined in the briefing include :
“The ANPP block’s discontent points to a broader need for greater inclusivity and representation within the party.

“A potential exit could significantly weaken the APC’s national standing, particularly with the considerable grassroot influence of its members.”

In response to these developments, the ANPP block has planned to convene a critical meeting in the coming days to deliberate on its next steps.

“We will carefully weigh all options, including the reevaluation of our membership in the APC,” the insider revealed.

“Our decision will be guided by the principles of fairness, justice, and equality. We will not hesitate to take a stand that reflects the interests and aspirations of our members.”

The statement serves as both a warning and an appeal to the APC leadership. The insider stressed that the situation remains salvageable, “We believe it is surmountable to correct the anomalies and restore trust and confidence in our members.”

ANPP block according to our source listed their critical demands for the APC leadership to consider, including immediate steps to address the ANPP block’s concerns and ensure greater representation, a prioritization of inclusivity and unity to prevent further fragmentation.

With the clock ticking, the outcome of the upcoming meeting could prove to be a turning point for the APC while the ANPP block has pledged to make its final stance public following the deliberations, emphasizing that its decision will represent a collective consensus.

“We will make our position known to the public after our meeting, and we hope that our decision will be respected by all stakeholders,” the source added.

As the APC braces for the fallout, political analysts and stakeholders are watching closely as the potential dissent or departure of the ANPP block could fracture the party’s cohesion nationwide.

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has disclosed that one of his priorities is to ensure that no child of school age is denied access to quality education in the state.

The governor also revealed that no fewer than eighty thousand (80,000) children of school age have returned to school since he stopped the payment of 3,000 fees in schools across the state.

Makinde who was represented by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr Sulaimon Olanrewaju made these assertions while speaking as the Chairman of the occasion during the launch of a book titled “Defying Expectations: My Story of Perseverance From Conductor to Journalist” authored by Oyo State Correspondent for DAILY POST Newspaper, Mr Musliudeen Atanda Adebayo.

The event which coincided with the 40th birthday of the author was held at Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat Iyaganku Ibadan on Sunday.

It was graced by the Chairman of Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria and Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Media, Alhaji Oyekunle Oyetunji, Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu who was represented by Comrade Femi Awogboro, Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin who was represented by his Chief Press Secretary, Chief Solomon Olugbemiga Ayoade, Chief Executive Officer of Eternal Home Cemetery, Dr Adebukola Kadiri, National President of Nigeria Association of Social Workers (NASoW) Alhaji Mashood Mustapha, NUJ Chairman, Alhaji Ademola Babalola, Professor Yemisi Lydia Olaleye who was represented by Mrs Yunus Ayandoye and the Chief Executive Officer of Fire Academy of Nigeria, Professor Afolabi Charles Israel.

Others are the Book Reviewer, Professor Rahman Akinoso, Guest Lecturer, Dr Bayonle Busari, Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland, Imam Yunus Olushina Teliat Ayilara who was represented by Alfa Abdurazaq Ajibade, Dr Kazeem Adeleke, Coordinator of International Institute of Journalism, Ibadan campus, Alhaji Bolaji Kareem, Deputy Director of Continuous Education Centre (CEC), The Polytechnic, Ibadan, Alhaji Najeem Adunola, Mr James Anthony Olountoyin, Secretary, NBA Ibadan Branch, Ibrahim Kareem-Ojo, Secretary, Mr Abiodun Azeez, Dr Suraj Amusat, Publicity Secretary of Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) Mr Kola Olomide, NASoW National Treasurer, Folasade Ogungbire, National President of Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, Alhaji Abdulrahman Balogun and NUJ State Treasurer, Mr Akeem Abas, Executive Director of Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) Professor Ishaq Akintola who was represented by Barrister Abdulwaheed Lawal and Editor in Chief of Legit online newpapar, Mr Rahman Abiola.

Other dignitaries at the event are Special Adviser on Islamic Affairs to governor Seyi Makinde, Alhaji Abbdulraseed Abdulazeez, Chairman of Nigeria Association of Social Workers (NASoW), Oyo State chapter, Mr Adegoke Ayodele, former NUJ B zone National Trustee, Elder Adebayo Akamo, former Chairman of Correspondents’ chapel, Elder Kemi Olaitan, Chairman, Correspondents’ chapel, Mr Raji Adebayo, Special Adviser on Media to Senator Yunus Akintunde, Mr Kunle Olatunji, Mr. Taoheed Oladejo and the head of Alawode Adebayo lineage from Daramola compound in Ita Baale Ori Okiti in Ibadan, Mr Kazeem Akande Adebayo.

The rest are Islamic clerics among who whom are Alfa Abdulrahman Faleti, Alhaji Ismail Busari and Alfa Nurudeen Abdulfatai, paternal and maternal families of the author from Oyo and Osun States, members of Legacy Stars of Ibadan, Ibadan Mega Voice, University of Jos Alumni Association, Nigeria Association of Social Workers, NUJ and Correspondents’ chapel.

Makinde while addressing the gathering, said that he is determined to ensure that no child of school age in the state is denied access to quality education, noting that he was ready to support the author and all other talented individuals in the state to achieve their dreams.

Makinde who added that the book is a worthwhile manual to teach the younger ones and encourage them that they can get anywhere with determination. He described the author as a humble, hardworking, and determined individual who doesn’t see difficulties as problem but stepping stones.

He added that Musliudeen Adebayo’s story compliments his administration’s focus which aims to promote quality formal education in the State.

The governor while speaking further, added that the stoppage of 3,000 school fees in public schools on assumption of office has helped over 80 thousands out-of-school children returned to school.

He further noted that he has embarked on another phase of rehabilitation of 205 schools in the state, adding that about 20,000 teachers were employed in the state towards helping children from grass to grace.

“The governor is determined to ensure that no child in Oyo State is denied access to quality education. That is why the government is creating opportunities for people to thrive. The governor will support Musliudeen and other people in his category. The governor is taking Oyo State from poverty to prosperity”.

Ogundoyin, while speaking maintained that the event is a powerful testament to vision and resilience of the author. He described his story as a reflector of the story of many Nigerians who rose to greatness from humble beginnings.

He added that he is encouraged by stories like this which captured the stories of a man who refused to be bossed by circumstances to becoming a great journalist. He said the author wrote a story that really maters, recommending it a source of encouragement to others, especially the younger generations towards navigating their life path.

Chief Executive Officer of Eternal Home Cemetery who double as mother of the day, Dr. Adebukola Kadiri, while speaking encouraged underprivileged children never to give up on their dreams but to embrace the values of hard work, perseverance, and determination.

Kadiri joined other dignitaries at the event to encourage struggling children not to lose hope, emphasizing that with prayers, diligence, and perseverance, they could achieve greatness.

She warned against engaging in get-rich-quick schemes, stressing that such paths often lead to untimely death or social insignificance.

“Musliudeen could have diverted his attention to distractions like internet fraud and other unlawful activities, but he chose the path of education and hard work, and today, he is reaping the rewards. With the situation in the country, though it is not ideal for the struggling child, the God factor and tenacity make any dream possible”.

The guest lecturer, Dr Bayo Busari while speaking on the topic “Redirecting Youthful Energy towards Positive Self and National Development” identified unemployment, lack of access to education and health issues as some of the challenges facing the youths in the country.

He described education as a veritable tool to ensure emancipation, empowerment and societal growth.

He said, “Education enables young people to become active participants in society and make informed decisions about their lives. It empowers them to pursue their aspirations, develop their talents, and contribute to the betterment of their communities and the world. By equipping them with knowledge and skills, education helps them to navigate challenges and opportunities, both personal and professional. Education provides young people with the skills they need to participate in the workforce and contribute to the economy. It fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, which are essential for success in various fields. Education also cultivates creativity, innovation, and adaptability, allowing young people to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

“Education increases opportunities for social and economic participation, helping young people to overcome poverty and lead fulfilling lives. It provides access to better jobs and opportunities, allowing them to contribute to the growth and prosperity of their communities. Education also promotes social inclusion and reduces the risk of crime and other negative behaviours. Education fosters self-confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of purpose, which are essential for personal well-being. It helps young people develop a positive self-image and a strong sense of identity. Education also promotes resilience, adaptability, and the ability to learn from setbacks, which are crucial for navigating life’s challenges. Education contributes to a more informed and engaged citizenry, leading to better governance and decision-making. It fosters tolerance, understanding, and respect for diversity, promoting social cohesion and peace. Education helps build a more just and equitable society, where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential”.

The book reviewer, Professor Rahman Akinoso, while reviewing the book, described the book as a ‘work of art’ with 166 pages and 13 chapters. He added that the piece narrated a journey from challenges to successes defying all odds through perseverance. He said the writing pattern embraces clear, plain and understandable choice of words with pictorial illustrations strategically positioned for clear messages.

He further recommended that the book is suitable to encourage teenagers on the importance of perseverance in the pursuit for growth. He said the book is more a story book beneficial to youths of secondary school age, adding that real names should be replaced with fictitious name to suit usage in school and avoid ethical violations in book reading.

NASoW National President, Alhaji Moshood Mustapha describes the celebrant as a promising and hardworking man who has added value to the association through the value of pen.

NUJ Chairman, Alhaji Ademola Babalola, noted that the author had chronicled his experiences and growth and picked his 40th birthday as a significant period to launch it.

He commended the celebrant for taking cognate steps to defy all odds and embrace formal education. He said despite earning daily from bus conductor, he has a direction about his life. He described Musliudeen as one of the active members of the journalistic union who is well connected, hardworking, dogged, zealous and committed to his job.

The author, in his welcome address, expressed gratitude to God for transforming his life journey from that of a conductor to a journalist, and for sparing his life.

He also urged both the state and federal governments to recommend the book in secondary schools to ensure that children in schools have access to his books, which he believes will positively influence and inspire the younger generation and generations yet unborn.

He added that the book traces his struggles as an orphan and how he sailed through the hurdles and worked as a bus conductor at CMS Park 4 Marina Lagos between August 2004 and February 2009 so as to attain university education.

“It is certain that behind every success story, there are many ups and downs, challenges and obstacles confronted in the course of accomplishing the goals, it is against this background that I present to the public today “Defying Expectations: My Story of Perseverance from Conductor to Journalist”, a book authored by me which chronicles my struggles in the last 40 years.

“I want to use this medium to appeal to the Oyo State government and the Federal Government to recommend this book to all secondary school students so as to learn the art of perseverance, resilience and consistency which continued to keep me going this far”.

The Chairman of the Nigerian Association of Christian Journalists (NACJ), Oyo State Chapter, Lekan Shobo Shobowale, has miraculously survived a car accident just one day after celebrating Easter Sunday.

In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of NACJ, Adeola Badru, it was reported that the accident occurred as he was driving towards Alakia Adegbayi along the Adegbayi Express Road when his vehicle veered off the road due to a sudden tyre burst.

“I was driving towards Alakia Adegbayi with others in the car 2 (2 others currently undergoing medical attention at a hospital in Ibadan) when the car unexpectedly veered off the road.”

“It was a terrifying moment, but I thank God for saving my life. Fortunately, I did not sustain any injuries,” Shobowale said.

He confirmed that the car spun out of control but landed in a grassy area with trees, preventing a more serious collision.

Expressing profound gratitude, Shobowale reflected, “This incident has reminded me of the fragility of life and the importance of faith. In an instant, everything can change, and it is only by God’s grace that I am here today.”

“My special thanks to some of the traders and residents of the area who responded to calls, while myself and two others were in the ditch. Colleagues who called me few minutes after they learnt of the incident, my fathers in faith, and everyone who had showed concern, I say thanks so much, death will be far from us in Jesus name.”

“I urge everyone to cherish each moment, trust in God’s plan, and recognise that our lives are in His hands. This experience has deepened my faith and reinforced my commitment to serving others through journalism,” Shobowale concluded.