Osun Defender February 13th 2014 Edition by OsunDefender

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www.osundefender.org THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2014

Editorial

PEOPLE FIRST

VOL. 9. NO.019

Who Killed Chief Bola Ige, formerAttorneyGeneral and Minister of Justice?

N 50

IGE

Osun, Ekiti Gov Elections:

Another PDP’s Rigging Plan Exposed Again - See Story On Page 2

•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, in the midst of the pupils after the peace meeting on dress code at the Baptist High School premises, Iwo, State of Osun, last Monday.

Osun Spends N31bn On Schools

- See Story On Page 3

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OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, February 13, 2014

Osun, Ekiti Gov Elections: Another PDP’s Rigging Plan Exposed Again By ISMAEEL UTHMAN

SUN DEFENDER has uncovered a fresh plan being employed by the rattled Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to rig out Governor Rauf Aregbesola of the State of Osun and his counterpart in Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, in the August 9 and June 21, 2014 governorship elections respectively. According to intelligence reports at the disposal of the The PDP, according to medium, the PDP leaders in the South-West have the reports, is planning to started collecting passports compromise some officials and residential addresses of of the Independent Electoral unsuspecting members of National the electorate with the aim Commission (INEC) and of using it to manipulate the other officials, who would forthcoming voters’ be used for the registration registration exercise in the exercise, in its bid to execute the manipulations. two states.

It was gathered that the obtained passports are to be used to register ghost names and inflate the number of the voters. The ghost voters’ cards will be in the custody of the PDP, with the sole aim of using same to rig the governorship election in favour of its candidates in the two states. This rigging plan, according to impeccable sources, was being coordinated by the SouthWest Mobilization Committee of the PDP, under the chairmanship of Mr

Buruji Kashamu, a PDP factional leader in Ogun State. Presently, the PDP mobilization committee is selling kerosene at subsidized rate in Osogbo. This is contrary to the impression that a PDP governorship aspirant in the State of Osun was the provider of the kerosene. Buyers of the kerosene were asked to submit their voters’ cards, two passport photographs, their names and residential addresses before the product could be sold to them.

The PDP, according to the reports, would also be importing crowd into Osun and Ekiti states to give impression that the party is popular, and that the people love its governorship candidates. “The implication of this is that, if the PDP eventually succeed in rigging the governorship elections, they will be making reference to the crowd at the series of rallies held in those states prior to the governorship elections. ‘They will tell people that the party is welcome and popular in the states, and going by the turnout of people in its rallies, they could not expect less than to win the election,” said the sources. It would be recalled that

the PDP mobilized across the South-West state on Saturday for the declaration of the governorship ambition of Senator Iyiola Omisore in Osogbo. Sixty per cent of the crowd at the event, according to observation, was imported from Ogun, Lagos, Oyo, Ondo and Ekiti states. Kashamu had said at the programme that the PDP would also mobilize to Ekiti in preparation for the governorship election.

Osun Governor’s Wife, Speaker Charge Theatre Artistes On Culture By KAZEEM MOHAMMED

•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and the newly-transferred Commissioner of Police to the state, Mr. Ibrahim Maishanu, during a courtesy visit to the governor in his office, Abere, Osogbo, State of Osun, last Tuesday.

Omisore Worthless Promises Underscores His Competence – Osun Govt By KEHINDEAYANTUNJI

OVERNMENT of the State of Osun said on Sunday that the inability of one of the governorship aspirants of the Peoples Democratic Party in Osun, Senator Iyiola Omisore, to articulate a particular set of actions and programmes for the benefit of the people is enough reason to conclude that the candidate has nothing to offer. A statement by the Director, Bureau of Communications and Strategy in the Office of the with utter disappointment after Governor, Mr Semiu the declaration, as there was Okanlawon, said it reviewed the nothing to tell the people other puerile, totally declaration programme of the than PDP aspirant at the state unsubstantiated allegations, capital, Osogbo on Saturday and which had been the sing-songs considered it as a jamboree to on the lips of the PDP aspirants deceive the people of the state. for months. “His allegations over award It noted that the summary of Omisore’s speech was a total of road contracts, the coming reversal and discontinuation of to Osun of the biggest garment the policies and programmes of factory in Africa, Omoluabi the government, which had been Garment Factory, his adjudged as effective for condemnation of the best comprehensive development of school reforms so far and other allegations had no substance. the state. “We must remind the The bureau stated that what the people of Osun expected people of Osun that Aregbesola from the aspirant was a clear- promised that in less than 100 cut articulation of programmes, days of assumption of office, which could be an acceptable he would take, at least, 20,000 alternative to the progress and youths out of the endless search massive development already for jobs. He told the people he recorded in about three years of would restore peace; he would the Rauf Aregbesola bring about functional education from its rotten state; administration. “Alas! The few people, who he would restore healthy living; spared time to listen to what he would banish hunger and Omisore had to say, ended up poverty.

“Today, beneficiaries of the various people-centred programmes of the Aregbesola administration can attest to the delivery of these promises and more. The Osun Youths Empowerment Scheme, OYES, Osun Rural Enterprises and Agricultural Programme (OREAP), OYESTECH, school reforms programmes, O’SCHOOL, adequate security throughout the state, as manifesting through the establishment of an effective security outfit called Swift Action Squad (SAS); and numerous other programmes are there for people to see. Okanlawon said it would have been better for Omisore to tell the people how many kilometres of roads he would deliver to them within a particular period, just as Aregbesola has delivered at least 750 kilometres of roads in about three years with several more nearing completion. “Ironically, what Omisore laboured hard to do on Saturday was a failed attempt at discrediting the programmes of Aregbesola. He failed woefully because the many achievements, as typified by the mega-schools, newly-constructed roads; dredged rivers and streams to

avert flood; positively engaged youths; health reforms, security outfits are there for the people to see. “Allegations of inflated contracts have not been proved. He has failed to tell the world what is wrong with the education reforms. No one knows what his grouse is with Opon-Imo, the Tablet of Knowledge, conceived to give Osun children the best of education that technology can deliver,” Okanlawon stated. The bureau also expressed appreciation to the people of the state for their display of maturity, despite all forms of provocations, while the declaration event lasted.

IFE of the Governor of the State of Osun, Mrs Sherifat Aregbesola and the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Honourable Najeem Salam, have urged theatre artistes to instill good culture and character in the young ones through their profession. The duo spoke in that the film was tailored propagating Osogbo on Sunday at the towards official launch of a Yoruba Omoluabi ethos. She further noted that the film, produced by Mrs Foluke Amere, wife of the major objective of the film House of Representatives was to showcase Yoruba member, representing Iwo/ culture and tradition. Present on the occasion Ayedire/Ola-Oluwa Federal Constituency, Honourable were the state deputy Gafar Amere, which was governor, Otunba (Mrs) Titilayo Laoye-Tomori; celebrated amidst fanfare. Babajide Mrs Aregbesola, who Senators described artistes as Omoworare of Osun East, teachers, said that Mudashir Hussein of Osun evidences have shown that West and Gbenga Ashafa young ones, cultivate the from Lagos State. Other were members of habit they watch on films. House of She added that the the artistes can assist the Representatives, members administration of Governor of the state House of Rauf Aregbesola in the Assembly, members of the propagation of Omoluabi state executive council, ethos, being propagated by Yoruba film producers, actors and actresses among the administration. She added: “Artistes are others. teachers, because what our children, even the old watch on video sometimes serve as guide for them. “This is the reason our theatre professionals must always come up with ideas that will instil good character in our children,” she said. Also, Honourable Salaam urged the theatre artistes to always be proud of their profession and use it to help the government in the development of the society. He said: “As you entertain, try to use your profession to help the society by propagating Omoluabi culture.” Commending the governor for ensuring peace in the state, which, according to him, allows all professions to thrive, he noted, that this has brought rapid development to the state. Speaking, the producer of the film, Mrs Amere, stated •Mrs AREGBESOLA

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OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, February 13, 2014

Osun Spends N31bn On Schools •Religion Cannot Break Our Bound Of Unity – Aregbesola By KEHINDEAYANTUNJI

HE governor of the State of Osun on Monday

appealed to secondary school pupils in the state o shun violence and indiscipline, which are

capable of derailing their academic pursuits. He said it would be counter-productive for the pupils to be unruly in their conduct, considering the resources the government has invested in education and its philosophy to build a better society. Aregbesola gave the appeal to the pupils of Baptist High School, Iwo, State of Osun during the distribution of the tablets of knowledge (OponImo) and an interactive session with stakeholders over the crisis that ensued in the school last week. The governor condemned the crisis and vowed not to henceforth tolerate such behavior, saying the future its administration is building

has no place for unruly and undisciplined persons. Aregbesola said: “ It is terrible to the extent that some people brought masquerades to this school. Well, it may be the religion of some section of the society, but it is not meant for school. It is gross indiscipline and sabotage. “The mischievous attitude of a tiny section of the society has even overridden their good sense of judgment to appreciate government’s huge and unprecedented investment in securing better future for the students.” He revealed that the state government capital expenditure on all schools stands at N31.31 billion,

while the recurrent expenditure stands at N84,000 per student annually. “After the education summit, we realised that there was shortage of teachers and as of now, we have employed 10,407 teachers in all categories of schools. We now have a total number of 12,715 teachers in primary schools and 7,848 teachers in secondary schools. This is 54.8 per cent more than we inherited. We have also employed 564 nonteaching staff in schools.” The salaries and pensions we consequently pay every year is N16.8 billion for primary school teachers, while N10.3 billion is expended on same in secondary schools. So, on salary alone, we are spending a total of N27.1 billion.” “For the free school uniforms we gave to pupils, we have spent

N900 million. For the free school feeding programme, we commit N3.6 billion every year. For the furniture supplied to the schools, we have committed N2.5 billion. “Before we came, no school had instructional materials and again, we have spent N503 million. The total grants to schools stand at N856 million, against N122 million recorded for previous administration. We have also paid N400 million for WAEC fees against N38 million paid by the previous administration” “We have spent so far N1.2 billion on OponImo, and this includes the delivery of 50,000 units of the tablets, some of which will be distributed in this school today. We have spent N14.4 billion on capital projects so far for the construction of brand new 13 elementary schools, 14 middle schools and 12 high schools. We

•Members of Humidtropics in a group photograph with the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun, who was the royal guest at a workshop organised by Humidtropics recently. Photo: JESUDOYIN ABRAHAM

have also spent N1.6 billion on school renovations and will continue until all our schools are all centres of excellence.” The total recurrent annual expenditure on elementary schools is N21 billion, amounting to N84,000 per capita spending on each pupil, while for secondary schools, it is N13.43 billion and per capita of N30,000 on each pupil. Our capital expenditure on all schools stands at N31.31 billion. “We are not just bandying figures. These are good money spent and reflected on increased school enrolment and healthy and well-fed school children; in the cutting edge instrument of Opon-Imo; in conducive environment for learning; and in drastically improved performance in internal and national examinations,” Aregbesola said. On hijab in schools, Aregbesola maintained that his administration did not at any time approve the use of hijab in any school, before the matter went to court, saying it was the court’s position that the status quo ante be maintained until the case is determined. “This means that where it is in use, it will be maintained and it should not be extended to where it is not. This is the beauty of democracy, where there is respect for the rule of law. “Yoruba people have a tradition of accommodation and inclusion; that is why our families are interwoven around all religions. Some people, goaded from hell, however, are working to break our bond of unity by beating the drum of religious war. They will fail and only they and their families will dance to that evil beat,” the governor emphasised.

Osun To Promote Healthy Living In Schools Through Safe Water By SOLA JACOBS

N her bid to promote healthy living among children of school age and make clean water available in the State of Osun, the state government has reiterated its commitment to preservation and conservation of water in the state through the Project Water Education for Teachers (PWET) initiative.

The state deputy governor, Otunba (Mrs) Grace Titilayo Laoye-Tomori, gave this assurance while receiving experts from the Nestle Water and Star Bright Consulting Firm, the two partners in the project, who were in her office on a courtesy visit. Mrs. Laoye-Tomori stated that the state government is pre-occupied with the promotion of health and education of the children in the state and will stop at nothing to ensure that children in the state maintain good hygiene in their schools and homes. According to her, teachers and pupils should be taught on how best to preserve and conserve water, so as to be able to teach those around them, while describing this as the best way to produce healthy children in the state. Mrs. Laoye-Tomori stressed that commitment of the state government in giving healthy

life to children in the state has been demonstrated through its participation in the Global Hand Washing Day and OMEAL initiative, which have contributed immensely to the promotion of healthy living among children in the state. The Deputy Governor added that the state government will collaborate with willing partners with laudable programmes aimed at advancing education and health programmes in the state. Earlier in his address, leader of the delegation and Nestle Water Branch Manager, Mr. Omotayo Latunji, said the Project Water Education for Teachers (PWET) is aimed at preserving and conserving water through the teaching of teachers and pupils. He said only 2.5% of water available on earth is fresh with its 29.9% available for consumption, adding that competition for its usage has

attained an alarming rate, which prompted the need for its proper preservation and conservation for coming generations through PWET. Mr. Latunji said the programme, launched in Lagos on October 26, 2012 and ongoing in 113 primary schools in Lagos, Ogun, Ondo and Oyo States, will go a long way in reducing the scourge imminent from scarce water in the State

of Osun saying PWET is already working legitimately, efficiently and harmoniously with communities in 60 countries across the globe. Present at the parley were stakeholders in education in the State of Osun, as well as President/Chief Executive Officer of the Star Bright Consulting Firm, Mr. Emmanuel Olu-Ayeni.

Arikalamu Mawlud Nabiyy Holds Saturday

Court Remands Secondary School Pupils In Prison By ISMAILAZEEZ

N Wednesday, an Osogbo Magistrate’s Court ordered the remand of six secondary school pupils suspected of allegedly carrying weapons around the town in their school uniforms. The suspects were: Agboola vol. II law of Osun State 2003. Afeez, (19); Ajao Adeniyi, According to the charge (18); Lawal Ridwan, (20); sheet, the suspects went around Adesoye Afeez, (18); and with two axes and knives with Hammed Sodiq, (18). intention to commit assault. The charge sheet stated that The suspects however the suspects committed the entered a not-guilty plea after offence on February 3, 2014 the charges were read to them at Nigeria Police Headquarters’ in court. gate at Oke-fia, Osogbo, Defence counsel, Mr Taiwo contrary to and punishable Awokunle, prayed the court to under Sections 516, 80 and 508 grant the bail of the suspects, of the Criminal Code, cap 34

The governor also constituted a panel of enquiry to investigate the crisis in the school to be headed by the former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in the state, Barrister Gbadegesin Adedeji, Alhaji Bola Ashafa, Mr Oni T.A of the Osun West Inspectorate Division and three others. The deputy governor, Otunba (Mrs) Grace Laoye-Tomori, while presenting the tablets of knowledge to the pupils, urged the parents and guardians to always inspect the device, with a view to preventing abuse by their wards. She announced that 467 units of the device will be distributed at Baptist High School, Iwo this week, out of over 19,772 distributed so far. Earlier, the representative of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Reverend Bayo Ademuyiwa, said the association recognises the commitment of the governor in the education sector, adding that what the association is agitating for is equality on conventional dressing in schools. He stressed that after the intervention of the Iwo Traditional Council, the association members have warned their children not to wear any dress that contradicts approved dress code in the school, saying the association is ready for amicable resolution of the matter. Alhaji Idris Mongaji, who spoke on behalf of Iwo Muslim community also declared their readiness to amicably resolve the matter, while Fawole Anifalaje, who spoke for traditionalists dissociated traditional worshippers from the crisis. The Oosa of Iwoland, High Chief Yekeen Olabamiji, later presented the report of the various meetings held with the stakeholders on the matter to the governor.

as they are presumed innocent until proven beyond reasonable doubt in a court of law. He further argued that the suspects were still pupils and in order not to affect their education and the fact that they were very young, they should be granted bail. Presiding magistrate, Mr Olusola Aluko, then ordered that the suspects be remanded in Ilesa Prison custody, before adjourning the case till February 7, 2014 for formal bail application.

S a way of celebrating the Mawlud Nabiyy, the birthday of the Holy Prophet Muhammed (S. A. W.), a foremost Islamic preacher, Sheikh Tajudeen Arikalamu, would be hosting another edition of the annual Arikalam Mawlud Nabiyy programme. According to a statement signed by Alhaji Adetoyese Olayanju, the Year 2014 edition with the theme: Who Was Prophet Annabi Muhammed would hold on Saturday 15th of February at Pen School, Fiwasaye, Osogbo by 9:00 PM. The lecture would be delivered by Sheikh Tajudeen Arikalamu and Muslim faithful, Islamic scholars and important guests from all walks of life from within and outside Osogbo are expected on the occasion.

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OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, February 13, 2014

Osun, Canada Partner On Economic Development, Good Governance By ISMAEEL UTHMAN

ANADA has declared its resolution to partner with the State of Osun on education, solid waste management, fire services, economic development and good governance. The partnership agreement looking forward towards signing of an wa s renewed recently the

during the visit of delegation of Osun to City of Victoria BC, Canada. State of Osun delegation comprised management of the State Waste Management Agency, State Fire Services and Executive Secretaries of local government councils. The delegation, on arrival, first visited Mayor Dean Fortin of City of Victoria BC, Canada, where he assured of good working relationship between Canada and the State of Osun on those areas of interest. Fortin expressed his gratitude and readiness at the partnership initiative, adding that the State of Osun is the first from Nigeria to partner with any jurisdiction in Canada. He declared that through the relationship, the two countries would lay a good foundation for greater working relationship and good example for others. The mayor said further that Canada would be

agreement on the new ties between the nations. According to him: “I am very happy to work with your state. This is because your state is the first to partner with any jurisdiction in Canada and we hope to lay a very good example from this relationship. I look forward to a signing ceremony sometimes later, either here or in your state.” In his remarks, the facilitator of the relationship, Mr. Samuel Olaitan Olawale of Etcetera Interactions International Limited noted that bringing the two jurisdictions together in a sister cities relationship is a remarkable achievement for him. He expressed hope that the relationship would be a sustainable one and of mutual benefit to the State of Osun and City of Victoria. The delegation later visited Solid Waste

Banker In Court Over Fraud By BOLANLE BABALOLA

suspected banker, Adesina Kolawole (32), has been arraigned before Magistrate Olusola Aluko of an Osogbo Magistrate’s Court for allegedly converting N790,000 of one Oluwumi Tope to personal use. The prosecutor added The charge sheet read in the court alleged theft of that that accused was a staff in the same bank with the N790,000 in Ecobank Plc. Police prosecutor, other whose whereabouts Fagboyinbo Abiodun, told still remains unknown to the court that the accused anybody. According to the charge person committed the crime the accused on January 30, at about 8:50 sheet, around Ogo-Oluwa Area, committed two charges of Osogbo, the State of Osun stealing and conspiracy, which are contrary to capital. Abiodun also stated that Sections 516 and 383 and are the accused, with another punishable under Section person believed to be 390 (9) of the criminal code currently at-large, did cap 34, vol: 11 Laws of Osun conspire to steal the sum of 2003 The accused, Kolawole N790,000 from one Oluwumi however not guilty Tope, operating an account to the twopleaded number 0251013070 of against him.charges levelled Ecobank Plc into their own The defence counsel, Soji account. Oyetayo, prayed the court The prosecutor added to grant bail of the accused that the accused, while in liberal term. committing the crime, was a Abiodun did not also staff of Ecobank Plc. raise any objection to the According to the charge bail application raised by sheet read in court, the the defence counsel saying, accused person committed it is the discretion of the two-count charges of court to grant bail to the stealing and conspiracy, accused. which is contrary to Section The presiding magistrate, 516 and 383 and punishable Muhammed Lasisi, under Section 390 (9) of the however, granted the bail in criminal code Cap 34, Vol:11 the sum of N500,000 to the Laws of Osun 2003. accused, with two sureties Kolawole however in the like sum. pleaded not guilty to the Aluko further added that two-count charge levelled the sureties must reside against him. within the court’s The prosecutor, jurisdiction, with an informed the court that evidence of tax payment Kolawole committed the and two passport-sized crime on January 30, at photographs attached, with about 8:50 am, along Ogo- an affidavit of means. The magistrate then Oluwa area of Osogbo, the adjourned the case till State of Osun capital. Abiodun also said, the March 11, 2014 for mention. accused person, with his accomplice believed to be at-large, did conspire to steal the sum of N790 000 of one Oluwumi Tope, the owner of account number 0251013070 at Ecobank Plc to their own.

Management site at 417 Garbally Road, Victoria, where the Manager, Mr. Terry Snow, expressed interest of his staff to give expertise support to the staff of the Osun State Waste Management Agency (OWMA). On the fire service, the two cities agreed on training, technical and equipment support to the

State of Osun Fire Service. On education, the delegates visited University of Victoria, where the Associate VicePresident of the School (International) looked forward to collaboration between the University of Victoria (UVIC) and Osun State University (UNIOSUN). Speaking on behalf of

the delegates, Dr. Taiwo Olaiya, the Executive Secretary of Ife-Central Local Government Area of Osun described the trip as a remarkable achievement in complimenting the efforts of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola-led administration in moving the state forward. He commended Mayor Fortin and his council for their hand of friendship, s

aying that members of the team are looking forward to fruitful partnerships between the two cities. The delegation team also included Lewis Olawale Oladuntoye , VicePresident, Egbe Omo Yoruba in North America and some executive secretaries of local government council areas in the state.

•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, acknowledging cheers from Baptist High School, Iwo, pupils, Iwo, on his arrival to the peace meeting on dress code, at the school premises in Iwo, State of Osun, last Monday.

Osun Assembly Kicks Over Health Workers’ Poor Attitude To Work By KAZEEM MOHAMMED

be well taken care of and that is why the ministry must have an effective task force that will be monitoring the activities of these health workers”, he added. Responding, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr (Mrs) Temitope Ilori stated that the ministry was aware of the situation and intensifying efforts on monitoring and supervision to salvage the situation.

HE State of Osun House of Assembly has frowned at the attitude of doctors and other health workers in the state-owned health facilities across the state to work. It said that inspite of the commitment of the current Salaam then charged the head administration to healthcare delivery and the huge amount of the ministry to shift attention of money going into it, the from projects alone to health workers have not monitoring of the activities of complemented the efforts of the the health workers to salvage the situation. government. “It is not just about projects, The Speaker, Honourable Najeem Salaam, stated this the human face angle of it must when officials of the Ministry of Health appeared before the House Joint Committee on Finance and Appropriation and By ISMAEEL UTHMAN Health to defend its 2014 budget estimate. OW fewer than 3,840 accident victims were rescued According to him, some by the free Osun Ambulance Service Agency known health workers’ attitude to work as O’ Ambulance provided by the state government of calls for concern, as patients are Osun in 2013. maltreated and neglected A minimum of 320-330 agency recorded the highest whenever they visit hospitals accident victims were being accident rate in December 2013, for treatment. rescued on monthly basis, when it rescued 562 accident He stressed that the state according to the General victims, stating that 67 per cent parliament would not be Manager of the O’Ambulance, of the road accidents involved approving budget for projects Dr Adeleke Akinloye. commercial motorcycles, known only without proper Akinloye stated this in an as Okada. implementation and monitoring interview The O’Ambulance boss with OSUN of the health workers, as lives DEFENDER on Tuesday in stated that the state government of the people are more Osogbo, the capital of the State employed 404 workers for the important. agency, adding that majority of of Osun. “The attitude of our doctors the workers were first batch of He said the state government and other health workers in our the Osun Youths Employment is saving lives and properties hospitals is very bad. If you see Scheme (OYES) cadets. through the provision of the free the way and manner these Commending Governor Rauf people attend to patients, ambulance service, saying that Aregbesola for the O’Ambulance many rescued accident victims inspite of all the state service, Akinloye said the state government efforts, one would would have died, if they were government has generated several not rescued on time. feel bad. Akinloye disclosed that the job opportunities, reduced “If there is any sector in this state that is lagging behind in Change Of Name Change Of Name achieving the goals of the governor, it is health and we I, formerly known and I, formerly known and must put an end to it. addressed as ALATISHE addressed as ENIOLA .A. “If drugs are supplied today ZAINAB, now wish to be FADEKEMI, now wish to to hospitals, and you go there known and addressed as be known and addressed tomorrow, they will say there ALATISHE ZAINAB are no drugs. as ENIOLA FADEKEMI MOBEREOLA.All former “The government means well ADETUTU. All former documents remain valid. and we say we are providing free documents remain valid. Osun State Polytechnic, healthcare, but the workers are General public should not supportive, yet, they Iree and general public take note. collect salaries at the end of the should take note. month,” the speaker fumed.

According to her, some health workers have been queried, while some have been suspended due to their negative attitude to work.

O’ Ambulance Rescues 3,840 Accident Victims In 2013

mobility and mortality of road accident. He stressed that the Aregbesola’s administration has also reduced maternal mortality through good referral system provided by the ambulance service to pregnant women across the state. Akinloye also disclosed that the state government has concluded plan to establish an emergency communication centre. The centre number is 112, according to him.

Change Of Name I, formerly known and addressed as TAIWO AMINAT, now wish to be known and addressed as TAIWO AMINAT OMOLARA. All former documents remain valid. General public should take note.

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, February 13, 2014

Maximising Osun/State Of Saxony Anhalt Collaboration

HERE is only one word to describe the planned collaboration between the government of the State of Osun and the German State of Saxony Anhalt to boost the state’s agriculture: h e a r t - w a r m i n g . Undoubtedly, it is an attestation to the fact that the painstaking work undertaken by the Rauf A r e g b e s o l a - l e d administration to attract not just investment, but expertise in critical areas of the state’s developmental needs, is finally bearing fruits. Viewed within the context of its declared commitment to improve agricultural practices and to boost food security, it is an important signal that the administration’s avowed mission to banish poverty from the state is well on course. Of course, it goes without saying that the state needs all the help it can get at this time to be able to optimise its

potentials be it in agriculture, solid minerals or even in tourism. As an ideas-driven administration, the present administration in the state has never left anyone in doubt about the important role of international agencies and development partners in the state’s development matrix. We have seen the governor make several shuttles to meet with development partners as part of strategies to catalyse the many well-conceived initiatives to transform the state economy in record time. A good example is the governor’s well-publicised visit to the International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan. Indeed, there are presently ongoing discussions between the state government and the elite institution on possible areas of cooperation to boost the state agriculture. Another notable example is the visit by the governor to the German State of Saxony Anhalt in May this year.

Both developments find meaning in the context of the governor’s singular commitment to attracting the best of technology to the hitherto moribund sector and to further his goal of optimising the state’s potentials. The visit of the seven-man German expert team to the state is no doubt, an icing on his cake. It deserves to be recognised as the fruit of hard work and persistence for which the state government, most especially the governor, deserves commendation. No doubt, the visit by the team could not have come at a better time than now when the state government is making frantic efforts to reposition the agricultural sector. To start with, there is a lot that our young farmers can benefit from the experts in modern farm techniques and management skills and ultimately in the area of the much needed transfer of technology. The state cannot wait to see the gains of the collaboration in the emergence of new generation of farmers in

Attention, Iyiola Omisore PhD.

ERMIT me to use this medium to express my feelings about Senator Iyiola Omisore’s February 8, governorship declaration. On that date, the whole world was waiting to hear from you, your mission, vision and manifesto you and your party have for Osun people as election into number one seat remains six months away. However, you failed to do so and the most annoying thing on that day was when you displayed an unacceptable conduct

by saying that you will provide 300,000 jobs for Osun indigenes within first ten days of your administration, if elected and pay them N75,000 monthly salary.

for you to retrieve this statement and tender unreserved apology for those who heard you on that day and joyfully withdraw from the race in other to avoid the disgrace

and mission again, as we did in 2003 poll that stagnated our progress for seven and a half years. We are wiser than before. Forward ever, backward never in Osun. •ADEWALE ADEMOLA, Osogbo, State of Osun.

I believe that you made a big mistake to have sounded like that because one will not expect such rubbish from a financial expert and a Ph.D holder as you are claiming to be. My candid advice is that it is not too late

that awaits you and your party on August 9, 2014 poll and face other important things in life. Finally, I want you to know that Osun people will not blindly vote for a man of no vision

Osun –individuals who see farming both as a calling and as a business. At the macro level, we expect the collaboration to assist in bridging the knowledge gaps in the state’s agro-business. The collaboration is no doubt, a critical step in the state’s quest to overhaul of the agriculture value chain as a strategy to guarantee sustainability. Finally, just as the point has been repeatedly made that a major bane of the nation’s development quest is the virtual absence of technical capacity by agencies of government charged with implementing well-meaning policies, we expect the benefits of the collaboration to extend to the area of capacity building for officials charged with policy implementation. In other words, the support, discipline and commitment by officials are no less critical if the noble intentions behind the collaboration will ever come to fruition.

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OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Promise Point Building, Opposite Guarantee Trust Bank GTB, Gbongan Road, Osogbo, State of Osun. All correspondence to the above mail address. ISSN: 0794-8050 Telephone: 0803-392-7286, 08033880205 Website: www.osundefender.com/index.php e-mail: osundefender@yahoo.com

INTERVIEW

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, Febraury 13, 2014

Aregbesola’s Performance Is Creating Fear In PDP Honourable Abiodun Awolola, representing Awolola Egbedore State Constituency in the State House of Assembly, is the Chairman, House Committee on Works and Transport. Our reporter, KAZEEM MOHAMMED, met Awolola in his office in Osogbo recently, where he bore his mind on the criticisms trailing some of the developmental programmes of Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s administration by the opposition. Excerpts:-

SDF: In 2007, you were elected into the state legislature, but later, you were dislodged, sequel to a rerun election ordered by a court. Between the time you were dislodged and 2011 when you were re-elected, how were you feeling? AWOLOLA: As human being, I felt bad and at the same time, I gave thanks to God. I took it in good faith that it was the will of God. Based on my faith, I did not leave my party inspite the pressure from the then ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The PDP offered me many posts, including the Chairmanship of the Service Commission of the House of Assembly, but I insisted that I could not leave my party and I thank God that I took a right decision. Four months after, the then government was booted out of office. If I have not taken the right decision then, I would have gone with them, but today I am happy that I am still part of the government today. OSDF: How will you compare the business of lawmaking in your first term in the House and now? AWOLOLA: The business of lawmaking then and now is so different. In the present Assembly, we have treated and passed a lot of bills, compared to the ones we did then. The way we are working now is more effective than what we used to do in the last Assembly. Even within three years, we have done more than what the last Assembly did in four years, interms of treatment and passage of bills. OSDF: One of the cardinal programmes of this government is massive road construction, but some critics, especially from the opposition circle, believe that the attention being given the road construction is too much, because it affects other sectors, do you subscribe to this? AWOLOLA: Those who are saying that don’t know the importance of roads. You see, the military incursion has now given us the wrong notion about how to govern. How to govern is what we are seeing under this government. The truth is that Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has touched every sector of government and infrastructural development is part of it. Interms of road construction, Aregbesola told us that he would embark on massive road construction to bring development to the state and virtually all the roads embarked upon are now being completed, except the one that are undergoing dualisation. Interms of road construction, Osun has now changed. There is no town that is not enjoying massive road construction in this state and that is a plus for this government. As he is doing in the area of massive road construction, so he is doing in other sectors. The massive road construction has been encouraging investors to come to Osun, which means that he is transforming Osun. If anybody tells you that the massive road construction is affecting other

sectors, ask them if they are not aware of the ongoing transforming in the education sector. Look at the massive school construction going on everywhere. Which government has ever embarked on such programme? One thing that makes Aregbesola to stand out among other governors is the newly-introduced Computer Tablet of Knowledge (Opon Imo), which no government has ever done anywhere in the world. With Opon Imo, students can now read with ease without carrying loads of books around. All the schools in Osun where new structures are not built, are currently undergoing massive rehabilitation. Our elementary school pupils are now being fed with good food to the extent that the government of the United Kingdom has invited Aregbesola to come and teach them how he has been doing it successfully. If anybody tells you that the massive road construction is affecting other sectors, ask them if they are not aware of the engagement of 40,000 youths under OYES in two batches, ask them if they not aware of the empowerment of women, investment in the agricultural sector, investment in the health sector, care for the elderly citizens, massive rural and urban electrification, environmental sanitation, investment in security and many others. In agricultural sector, farmers are being given loans and the sector is being funded at the appropriate time, unlike what applied in the past. That is why you are seeing sufficient food in Osun today. The engagement of youths has helped a lot in guaranteeing security of lives and properties in the state and that is why you see Osun to be very calm and a warmly place to be. So, Aregbesola has done a lot for the people of the state and we know that he has just started, because since the creation of Osun, we have not experienced such sporadic change. OSDF: What has been the effort of this Assembly in ensuring that all the ongoing road projects are completed on time and ensure that good jobs are delivered? AWOLOLA: This Assembly appropriated money for all the projects we are talking about and we must ensure that the funds are well applied and that is what we have been doing. There is none of the roads going on in Osun that we don’t visit from time to time to ensure that good jobs are delivered. In our monitoring exercise, we even engage the services of professionals. Apart from the standing committee of the House, the Speaker, Rt. Honourable Najeem Salaam also set up adhoc committees comprising honourable members from each federal constituency to inspect ongoing roads in another constituency. So, we have been proactive in our monitoring mechanism and this has helped a lot. OSDF: Has there been any cause for this House to sanction any contractor?

•AWOLOLA

AWOLOLA: In the course of our inspections, we have had reasons to withdraw projects from some contractors. About three contractors have seen the contracts withdrawn from them, some have been warned to show that it is no longer business as usual. For the intervention of the Assembly, we have been able to see many of our roads completed. To encourage the contractor, the House has even decided to compensate those who do their jobs very well. OSDF: But the opposition PDP is saying that the present government has not achieved anything reasonable interms of development, how will you react to this? AWOLOLA: This is a free world and anybody can say anything. What is happening in Osun is what our opponents do not expect and for that they have to be jittery and say some things to curry favour from the people, but they have forgotten the people of Osun are wiser and they can’t be deceived. When the PDP spent seven and half years here, they couldn’t do anything like this because they believed that it was not possible. They are only saying that to keep their mouth busy, because they know that the people have seen what is called governance. The roads that are being constructed are all there for everybody to see. The transformation in education, Opon Imo, and OYES employment are all there to verify. Even children of PDP are in the OYES, they enjoy Opon Imo, they enjoy the O’Meal. They should rather keep their mouth shot forever. I don’t know what any of the PDP aspirants would promise the people that Aregbesola has not done. If they talk of infrastructural development, Aregbesola has done it; reformation in education, Aregbesola has done it; construction of airport, he has done it; agricultural development, he has done it; youths empowerment, he has done it and many more. Within the next few months plane will land in the ongoing construction of Airport.

So, I want to believe that they just want to keep their mouth busy. OSDF: Are you saying that the developmental projects you have mentioned are enough to give Aregbesola second term in office? AWOLOLA: Of course. People of Osun are aware of what Aregbesola had done and want more of it. It is when Ogbeni Aregbesola came that we are seeing the development we have never seen before. People of Osun know what is good for them and they have seen it in Aregbesola. Therefore, what he has done is enough to give him the second term. OSDF: Political parties are now warming up for 2015 election, do you think that the APC can take over the government at the centre? AWOLOLA: With what is happening in the PDP now, everybody has seen that the truth has come and the people want change. PDP has been in the saddle since 1999, but they have not excelled in any area. The Federal Government is having the largest share of the resources of the nation, yet, they have not done anything with it except to share our money. PDP are looters, but God is now moving in Nigeria. They are talking about oil theft, who stole it? Are they not the ones? Go to the states being controlled by APC and see rapid development going on there, as against the ones being controlled by the PDP. So, APC is the alternative that the people desire and believe can turned around their fortune for better. OSDF: What is your message to the people of your constituency and Osun in general? AWOLOLA: Aregbesola has done many good things that have never happened in the history of Osun and needed to be given another opportunity, so that we will see more development that would make the state a reference point interms of development. We should give him second chance and ensure peaceful co-existence among ourselves in the state.

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, Febraury 13, 2014

PHOTOTALK

State Of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Held A Peace Meeting On Dress Code At Baptist High School, Iwo, State Of Osun, Last Monday.

•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (4th right); his Deputy, Mrs Titi Laoye-Tomori (4th left); Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Iwo Chapter, Catechist Paul Olagoke (3rd left); Chief Imam of Iwo, Shiekh Mudashir Akinlade (2nd right); Chairman, Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), Iwo Chapter, Reverend Bayo Ademuyiwa (2nd left); Chairman, Isokan Musulumi, Iwo, Sheikh Abdulrasheed Fasasi (3rd right); CAN Secretary, Iwo Chapter, Evangelist Caleb Ayoola (left) and Otun Imam of Iwo, Alhaji Fatai Olododo (right), after a peace meeting between Muslim and Christian parents over dress code in Baptist High School, Iwo, State of Osun, last Monday.

•(R-L) Aregbesola; Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Iwo Chapter, Catechist Paul Olagoke; Chairman, Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), Iwo Chapter, Reverend Ademuyiwa; Secretary CAN, Iwo Chapter, Evangelist Caleb Ayoola; Christian Education Minister, Osun Baptist Conference, Reverend Bisi Oludamilare and Chairman, Christian Community, Iwo, Dr Deji Ajani, after the peace meeting between Muslim and Christian parents over dress code in Baptist High School, Iwo, State of Osun.

PHOTOTALK

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, Febraury 13, 2014

State Of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Held A Peace Meeting On Dress Code At Baptist High School, Iwo, State Of Osun, Last Monday.

•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (standing by the podium in a school uniform), addressing the pupils of Baptist High School, Iwo when the governor held a peace meeting with them in Iwo last Monday.

•Aregbesola (arrowed) being welcomed by Baptist High School, Iwo pupils, on his arrival to the peace meeting on dress code at the school premises.

•Governor Aregbesola (arrowed) in the mist of the pupils in Iwo.

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, Febraury 13, 2014

PHOTOTALK

State Of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Held A Peace Meeting With pupils And Parents At Baptist School In Iwo, Last Monday. Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI.

•(R-L) Governor Rauf Aregbesola; his deputy, Otunba (Mrs) Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori and Secretary to the State Government of Osun, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti, during the programme.

•Otunba Laoye-Tomori (2nd right) presenting Opon-Imo (Tablet of Knowledge) to one of the SS3 pupils, Tajudeen Bakau (right); with them is an Assistant Chief of Staff to State of Osun Governor, Honourable Toogun Oguntola (left).

•A cross section of parents and guardians during the programme.

•(L-R) State of Osun Commissioners: Environment, Professor Olubukola Oyawoye; Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Wale Afolabi and Information and Strategy, Honourable Sunday Akere at the event.

FOR THE RECORDS

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, Febraury 13, 2014

Speech By The Governor Of The State Of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, While Visiting Baptist High School, Iwo And To Distribute Opon Imo On Monday February 10, 2014.

Building Knowledge-based Society Protocols, It gives me great pleasure to be in your midst this morning. I am happy and overwhelmed by the outpouring of emotions and the tumultuous reception I received from the pupils, teachers and entire Iwo community since I stepped into this town. Our elders have a saying that people are the real dress that we wear and for this, I will cherish forever the honour you have done to me today. I have decided to visit you today after I heard about a little misunderstanding and consequent bad behaviour by a very tiny number among you, which does not by any stretch of the imagination approximate the spirit of amity and scholarship in this school and even the community. The united manner in which you have all received me has put a lie to the antics of mischief makers who made futile bid to impress upon the whole world that this school and indeed Iwo town are on the verge of civil war. On the contrary, what I have seen are happy students in gay mood willing to project the Omoluabi ethos and looking to the future with great hope. This indeed is our desire for you. Our philosophy of education is the creation of the total man, a man physically, intellectually, morally and spiritually equipped to contribute to societal development. This is a man who views his acquisition and life attainment as instruments in the service of society and improvement of fellow citizens. This new person stands confident and radiates love to fellow human beings and is never threatened by other people who are different from him or her in some respects. Education is the means by which this new man is produced. Our interest in education even goes further. The world is now a rapidly changing place. Knowledge has become the basis of power and no longer the old notions of large territory, large army, large human population and large deposits of material resources. The most powerful nations are those that know how to use resources and trade in knowledge. Our world is now controlled by those who know technology, and not those who have it. It means in essence that a nation that knows how to manufacture cars, tractors and nuclear weapons is superior to those who merely have the money to buy them. The former is the master while the later is a mere servant. As we are, we are already marginalised in that world and our pie will further shrink in the future if we do not prepare our youth to compete favourably in that imminent future. We are therefore preparing those who will be political leaders, scientists, clergies, diplomats, inventors, captains of industries and leaders in all respects in the next 20 years, at least. In order to underscore how rapidly our world has changed, there was no GSM in Nigeria 20 years ago, but now there are 117 million active mobile phones in the country. What preparation was made 20 years ago for this change? Our level of preparation (or rather unpreparedness) is reflected in the importation of at least 200 million mobile phones from Europe and Asia until we opened, last month, a phone manufacturing plant in Ilesa. We are therefore interested in developing robustly the next generation that will take over from us and we are giving it everything that it will take to develop our successors in the brave new world of the future. At the moral level, we are developing the youth as an Omoluabi, that

â&#x20AC;˘AREGBESOLA quintessential Yoruba man that is the epitome of knowledge, wisdom, honour, integrity, discipline and chivalry. A person who believes in success through hard work; who conceives of societal problem and sees himself or herself as part of the solution and is working to the bone to provide solutions to every problem in his immediate environment; a man without prejudice who realised that God created us equal but differently in many respects and therefore have deep respect to others and their differences. Let me briefly intimate you with our commitment to education since our inauguration three years ago. The first thing we did was to convoke an education summit which was attended by eminent stakeholders in education, including Prof Wole Soyinka. The reforms we have carried out emanate from the summit. We realised that there was shortage of teachers and as of now, we have employed 10,407 teachers in all categories of schools. We now have a total number of 12,715 teachers in primary schools and 7,848 teachers in secondary schools. This is 54.8 per cent more than we inherited. We have also employed 564 non-teaching staff in schools. The salaries and pensions we consequently pay every year is N16.8 billion for primary school teachers while N10.3 billion is expended on same in secondary schools. So, on salary alone, we are spending a total of N27.1 billion. For the free school uniforms we gave to pupils, we have spent N900 million. For the free school feeding programme, we commit N3.6 billion every year. For the furniture supplied to the schools, we have

committed N2.5 billion. Before we came, no school had instructional materials and again, on this, we have spent N503 million. The total grants to schools stand at N856 million against N122 million recorded for previous administration. We have also paid N400 million for WAEC fees against N38 million paid by previous administration. We have spent so far N1.2 billion on Opon Imo, and this includes the delivery of 50,000 units of the tablets, some of which will be distributed in this school today. We have spent N14.4 billion on capital projects so far for the construction of brand new 13 elementary schools, 14 middle schools and 12 high schools. Work is ongoing. We have also spent N1.6 billion on school renovations and will continue until all our schools are all centres of excellence. The total recurrent annual expenditure on elementary schools is N21 billion, amounting to N84,000 per capita spending on each pupil while for secondary schools, it is N13.43 billion and per capita of N30,000 on each pupil. Our capital expenditure on all schools stands at N31.31 billion. We are not just bandying figures. These are good money spent and reflected on increased school enrolment and healthy and well-fed school children; in the cutting edge instrument of Opon Imo; in conducive environment for learning; and in drastically improved performance in internal and national examinations. They are reflected in brand new uniforms; in fulfilled teachers who now have instructional aid for the first

time; in promptly paid salaries; and ultimately in self assured youths bracing up with confidence to the future. Beyond our financial commitment, we have invested hope in you; the hope that you will realise your greatest potentials and be a winner in your life endeavour; the hope that you will redeem our future that looked bleak hitherto. You cannot let us down. It is our hope that Nobel Laureates; renowned clergies like Pastors Adeboye and Kumuyi; Imams like Sheik Adelabu; army generals like Petinrin; great entertainers like Moses Adejumo (Baba Sala), Kareem Adepoju (Baba Wande) and King Sunny Ade; inventors like Prof Makanjuola; eminent jurists like Kayode Esho and Emmanuel Ayoola; astute diplomats like Hastrup and Fafowora; and great politicians like Bola Ige. I want you to know that our concern for you is getting the best education available. You should therefore avoid distractions and indiscipline. We view you all as created equal by God and are therefore our shining stars. We cannot place any group above other. We are a product of the rule of law and this has guided all our actions. As we have said in the past, we have not approved the use of hijab in any school. Let me repeat this again for the hearing of mischief-makers who have been working tirelessly to bring religious war to our state; those prompting chaos and conflagration in our state; those who have well established antecedent of violent behaviour; those sowing the seed of discord in our schools and community and inciting one religion against another (and they will all fail miserably by the grace of the Almighty), that the government did not at any time approve the use of hijab in any school, before the matter went to court. It is the courtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s position that the status quo ante be maintained until the case is determined. This means that where it is in use, it will be maintained and it should not be extended to where it is not. This is the beauty of democracy, where there is respect for the rule of law. We have set up a committee in discipline in public school and when we receive their report, we shall begin to enforce discipline in all schools. The future we are preparing you for has no place for unruly and undisciplined persons. Order, they say, is the first law in Heaven. Yoruba people have a tradition of accommodation and inclusion; that is why our families are interwoven around all religions. Some people, goaded from hell, however, are working to break our bond of unity by beating the drum of religious war. They will fail and only they and their families will dance to that evil beat. As I return to my base, I commit you to the Almighty, to keep, guide and protect. May you become great, dominate and fill your world. May our investment and your parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; expectation over you bring forth fruits, in hundreds and thousands and may you become the best that God Almighty wants you to become. Let me once again thank the pupils, teachers, parents and the good people of Iwo for their love, accommodation and warm welcome for me. I thank you for your kind attention. Osun a dara!

OPINION

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, Febraury 13, 2014

The Federal Republic Of Shattered Dreams T By FEMI FANI-KAYODE

HERE is so much death in this country. So many tears. So much evil. So much betrayal. So much sadness and so many tragedies. So much corruption and deceit. So many shattered dreams, broken hearts and wounded souls. So much injustice and insensitivity. So much greed and want. So much bloodshed, blood-letting and blood-spilling. Welcome to Nigeria- the Federal Republic of Shattered Dreams. A country in which sadism, failure, iniquity, injustice, wickedness, persecution, cover-ups, lies and abuse of power are enthroned. A land in which “men of God” do not pray but instead sell the anointing and buy private jets. A country where common decency, kindness and human compassion has no place. A nation in which the rulers pay homage to the baphomet and make open sacrifices to Satan. A country, where ignorance and mediocrity is exalted and in which excellence and knowledge is scorned. A nation in which truth has no place and in which those that tell it are hated and treated with contempt. I weep for my country and each day I pray that God delivers her from the blood-sucking and relentless demons that plague and afflict her. Yet, despite all, hope springs eternal. Today, our nation stands at a crossroad and it is left for us to decide which path we choose to take. Do we take the path of despair and dishonour and give up on our country? Or do we rise above it all and latch on to the promises of God for our land and for our people? With biting poverty, mounting hopelessness, a bleeding economy, youth restiveness, unprecedented violence, brazen acts of terrorism and all manner of vices and evil thriving in the land one wonders how things got so bad. The foundation for our current situation was laid many years ago and since that time we have seen so much suffering and failure at virtually all levels. We were plagued with leaders who lacked vision, who lacked intellect, who lacked sincerity of purpose and who were antagonistic to those that dared to challenge their visionless and purposeless policies. Our country is currently bedevilled with so much negativity that it is easy to look around and just give up. Yet I say that we must never give up because “hope springs eternal”. The bible says though the night may be dark yet “joy comes in the morning”. The wise ones say you cannot have a message without a mess. You cannot have a testimony without a test. You cannot get to the top of the mountain without first going to the bottom of the valley. This is true. And out of Nigeria’s “mess” shall surely come her “message”. Out of Nigeria’s “test” shall surely come her “testimony”. We have been to the “bottom of the valley” and therefore we shall get to the “top of the mountain”. Our dream for a better Nigeria shall never die and neither can our collective prayers be in vain. I refuse to give up because I know that the God that I serve never fails. He alone rules in the affairs of men. He alone forges the destiny of nations. Out of a deep void and formlessness He ordered the creation of the world. He

established it by the power of His word and He gave us dominion over it. In the same way He created Nigeria for His purpose and for His glory and that purpose and glory shall surely be established. It shall come to pass and it will be manifest to the entire world. We shall see it and we shall be established in it as a nation and as a people. If God can do it for others, He can do it for us too. We can be great and, by the grace of God, we shall be great. This is my dream and this is what I see. And believe me when I tell you that it is prophetic. A Nigeria, where every man and woman, regardless of faith, ethnicity, status or political persuasion finds a common cause and relishes in our collective humanity. A Nigeria, where the rich have a conscience and the poor have hope. A Nigeria, where joy and peace reign supreme and where bombings and killings are a thing of the

awesomeness and majesty, with Him lies great compassion and mercy. Once we return to Him, acknowledge Him, honour Him and are led and guided by Him, He will restore us and shower us with His blessings. The Lord awaits us to make the right choice. We either continue to wallow in self-delusion, wickedness, greed, murder, the persecution of perceived enemies, the abuse of power, evil and insensitivity or we desist from our wicked ways and turn to Him. I am persuaded that once we make the right choice our date with destiny, as a people and as a nation, will come far sooner than we can possibly imagine. In his book titled “The Wretched of the Earth” Frantz Fanon said the following- “each generation must, out of relative obscurity, discover it’s mission and fulfill it or betray it.” Past generations in Nigeria have not lived up to expectation. This is the

indeed the stuff of which dreams are made. Great things are birthed in great dreams and if you dare to dream nothing is impossible. I have a dream for Nigeria. I have a dream that one day Nigerians will see themselves as Nigerians before anything else and they will not regard their country and its people as a collection of strange bed-fellows that do not love or trust one another. Yet this dream can only be fulfilled when those amongst us that call ourselves leaders preach, practice and display discipline, temperance, holiness, morality, restraint, tolerance, mercy and the fear of God in the conduct of our affairs. It can only be made manifest when we stand up and fight against evil, tyranny, injustice, indecency bad governance, the abuse of power , political persecution and sheer wickedness. Our dream can only be brought to reality when love is the motivating factor in all that we do. The Lord commands us to love our neighbour as we do ourselves. That is the cornerstone and the foundation of our faith and it is in that faith and that resolve that our hope for a better and greater Nigeria lies. I have a dream that Nigeria will be what God wants her to be, a great and powerful nation that is dedicated to the Living God and that will act as a shining example and a beacon of light for all to see. I assure you that despite the dashed hopes and unbearable suffering of millions of our people over the last 52 years, our dream still lives and the Lord shall not forsake us. Our land and our people may seem blighted, in despair, depressed, repressed and confused. It may appear as if there is no hope for a better tomorrow and that nothing will ever change. It may seem as if the Lord has forgotten us and it may appear that our story is one of recurrent failure and shattered dreams. Yet this is not so. I have come here today to tell you that, despite all we see and hear, it is not over for us as a people and as a nation. I have come here today to tell you that we as a people have a date with destiny. I have come here today to tell you that Nigeria and the Nigerian dream lives on and that it shall be made manifest for all to see in the fullness of time. I therefore urge you to be strong, to hold your heads up high, to be proud of who and what you are and to stand firm. The vision is for an appointed time. Though it may tarry it shall not prove false. Just hold on and always remember that, despite all, ‘’hope springs eternal’. God bless you and God bless Nigeria.

“Welcome to Nigeria- the Federal Republic of Shattered Dreams. A country in which sadism, failure, iniquity, injustice, wickedness, persecution, cover-ups, lies and abuse of power are enthroned. A land in which “men of God” do not pray but instead sell the anointing and buy private jets. A country where common decency, kindness and human compassion has no place. A nation in which the rulers pay homage to the baphomet and make open sacrifices to Satan. A country, where ignorance and mediocrity is exalted and in which excellence and knowledge is scorned. A nation in which truth has no place and in which those that tell it are hated and treated with contempt.” past. A Nigeria, where the descendants of Ishmael and Isaac and the adherents of the two great Abrahamic faiths of Islam and Christianity live together in peace, harmony and mutual respect. A Nigeria, where the secularity of the state is respected yet where God is revered and honoured by all. A Nigeria, where the knowledge and fear of the Living God reigns in the hearts and minds of the people. A Nigeria, where every man is his brother’s keeper, where leaders show compassion to those that they lead, where justice is done to all and where political persecution has no place. A Nigeria where decency is rewarded, where dissent is tolerated, where nonconformity is encouraged and where equity is enthroned. That is the Nigeria of my dream. A Nigeria, where youth unemployment is low and where every individual, no matter how high or low, can aspire to any position and live his or her dream. That is the Nigeria of my dream. A Nigeria where human life and human dignity is sacrosanct and where fairness is the watchword of every soul. That is the Nigeria of my dream. I have no fears about the future of this great nation because the God that I serve never fails. The bible says the nations are “as a drop of water before Him”. He sits above the circles of the earth and He counts the earth as His footstool. Yet despite His sheer

bitter truth. Yet, there is still hope as long as we have faith. That hope and faith is our blessed assurance and it lives in our minds and hearts. We know that the Lord will fix it. We know that He is “more than able”. We know that He is a man of war whom none can resist and we know that He restores, redeems and rebuilds even the most broken and wretched walls. Dr. Martin Luther King jnr., after delivering his celebrated and inspiring “I have a dream” speech, was felled by an assassin’s bullet on April 4 1968. To those that killed him, his dream died with him. Yet they were wrong. They did not know that great dreams, once birthed, never die. That is why the Word of God said “if the princes of this world had known they would not have crucified the Lord of Glory”. If those that murdered Jesus, and the devil that inspired them to do it, had known that He would honour His word and rise up three days later they would not have crucified him. They persecuted Him, they humiliated Him, they beat Him, they tortured Him, they spat on Him and they killed Him, yet, they could not kill His dream or abort His mission. His dream lived on and became a reality for all mankind to see. It was the same with Martin Luther King. They killed him, but his mission had already been achieved and his vision came to pass 45 years after his sacrificial and selfless death. This is

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, Febraury 13, 2014

Job Vacancies In Nigeria Total Nigeria job vacancy for an experienced Site Routine Maintenance Supervisor in Port Harcourt

Interested and qualified candidates should forward their CV’s to: jobs@kneipe-ng.com

Note: Only shortlisted candidate shall be contacted. Application Deadline 21st February, 2014. —————————————————— Total Nigeria job vacancy for an experienced Site Routine Maintenance Supervisor in Port Harcourt

Job Location: ·Onshore or Offshore operational sites Nigeria Job Scheme: ·Rotational, 2 Weeks ON * 2 Weeks OFF Job Objectives: The Site Routine Maintenance Supervision Services are required to : ·manage, control and supervise all Routine Maintenance activities linked to static equipment and support services mainly defined as follow: -Painting touch up -Insulation removal, reassembly, replacement -Piping and structure limited to like for like replacement (and limited to –”) -Assistance to operation for spading and piping auxiliaries replacement, pressure test ... -Opening, cleaning and closing of vessels -Scaffolding design, erection and dismantling - Rope access assistance ·manage the FM activities following Services defined in the relevant Contracts ·Ensure that the HSE Rules and Company Specifications (in particular in term of QA/QC) are respected Job Description: ·Ensure that COMPANY HSE rules are respected and stop works when he detects / estimates a potential problem ·Ensure that the COMPANY’S rules and specifications are met (especially procedures related to works permits) as well as approved operating procedures and standard industry practice during performance on operations placed under responsibility ·Ensure that all Local regulations linked to his activities are respected ·Be key interface within FM Contractor Representative and COMPANY management in particular with Site maintenance Superintendant ·Participate to risks assessments ·Manage day to day activities (in particular in term of preparation) within his responsibility performed by Contractor (scheduling, team assignment, material management…) ·Supervise/manage Contractor(s) ·Verify the works are carried out following relevant Contractual and Technical Terms defined in the Contract ·Verify that best practises linked to his activities are met ·Verify that all procedures, specifications and standards are followed ·Ensure that the costs are met – participates to budget preparation ·Anticipate construction and stand by problems – reports, discuss and proposes solutions/alternatives ·Ensure that all QA/QC procedures are respected /applied and verifies that all required inspections and adequate measures are performed when requested and on time ·Verify/check the intervention reports are written and integrated in the CMIMS when required ·Manage interventions using the CMIMS ·Assist the planning team by giving any technical support for preparation of the jobs in his activities ·Verify the different material register are correctly completed and followed ·Verify that all FM Contractor’s personnel certifications, qualifications are in place, in line with Contract terms and site regulations/rules ·Identify additional resources needed to perform the works and prepare on time the relevant mobilization ·Prepare the daily / weekly / monthly reports with highlight, progress and required information ·Participate to all relevant meetings ·Prepare feedback files ·Assist with methods support and return information to ·Evaluate FM Contractor(s) performances and prepare KPI following requirements ·Participate to audits How to Apply http://www.maventeqsystems.com/www/index.php/careers Application Deadline: February 14th 2014 —————————————————— Dangote Group Vacancy for a Head of Risk Analytics Dangote Group is one of Nigeria’s most diversified business conglomerates with a hard - earned reputation for excellent business practices and products’ quality. Our operational headquarters is located the bustling metropolis of Lagos, Nigeria. We are recruiting to fill the following position: Job Title: Head, Risk Analytics Location: Nigeria Requirements Minimum Education: Master’s degree or higher in a strongly technical degree (e.g. Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Computer Science, engineering). A minimum of 10 years working experience with a minimum of 5 years experience in financial mathematics, ideally in the field of statistics, probability or structured finance Experience working in an R&D or entrepreneurial environment, particularly on a development team professional Excel plus experiences with relevant software packages, ideally SAS, VBA, C++, SQL, MS Access Responsibilities Develop methodologies for rating & scoring including decision analytics, portfolio modeling for all risk types across the group( VaR and economic capital. Analytical support of portfolio management units in the risk assessment of sub-portfolios Develop and validate expert rating models (rating sheets) Capital planning: extension and maintenance of planning tools; support of the annual group-wide capital planning process Risk adjusted return on capital (RaRoC) calculations: extension and maintenance of the RaRoC pricing/ performance Tools RPT and Client RaRoC; regular RaRoC calculations Portfolio management tools: establishment of a risk appetite grid and a portfolio optimization framework Develop exposure methodologies and the calibration & validation of the respective risk parameters. Develop and manage applications and tools for capital planning, stress testing, Raroc, portfolio optimization etc.) Development of new scoring methodologies and extended use of sophisticated statistical methods for credit risk ;Data analysis on defaulted customers and modeling of recoveries Method Of Application Interested and qualified candidates should visit: https://touch.www.linkedin.com/mainsite?sessionid Application Deadline 21st February, 2014 —————————————————— KNEIPE Nigeria Limited jobs for Graduate Quality Control Officers and Technicians (Mechanical / Electrical) The company KNEIPE Nigeria Limited was incorporated as a limited Liability company in January 13, 1981 to engage in the import and export trade, wholesale distribution and general merchandise. The company came into full business operation on 1st July 1990 with office located at No.98/100 Ladipo Street, Mushin Lagos. During this period, the company was importing and selling Dano Milk, teabags, spaghetti and other household consumables. However, in 1992, Kneipe Nigeria Limited became the Sole Packers of Dano milk in Nigeria. Dano Milk is a very high quality dairy product from Arla Foods ingredient, Denmark. Kneipe is recruiting to fill the job positions below: Job Position: Quality Control Officers Location: Lagos Requirement 1st degree in Food technology or any related discipline. ISO certification is an added advantage. Minimum of 1 year experience. Job Position: Technicians (Mechanical / Electrical) Location: Lagos Requirement 1st degree in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering. Minimum of 2 years experience in a production company preferably food industry. Remuneration Highly competitive. How to Apply

Job Title: Site Routine Maintenance Supervisor Job PERSONNEL profile: ·The holder of this position must have the following qualifications: Diploma and/or Degree holder ·At least 5 to 10 years of experience in Construction activities in industrial oil & gas context ·Specific professional knowledge: CMMS : SAP/R3, ·Ability to work in a large multinational team ·Ability to work independently while maintaining good relations with colleagues and others ·Physical ability to work on offshore installations in the climatic conditions of the site ·Working language: English mandatory, French is an advantage Job Location: ·Onshore or Offshore operational sites Nigeria Job Scheme: ·Rotational, 2 Weeks ON * 2 Weeks OFF Job Objectives: The Site Routine Maintenance Supervision Services are required to : ·manage, control and supervise all Routine Maintenance activities linked to static equipment and support services mainly defined as follow: -Painting touch up -Insulation removal, reassembly, replacement -Piping and structure limited to like for like replacement (and limited to –”) -Assistance to operation for spading and piping auxiliaries replacement, pressure test ... -Opening, cleaning and closing of vessels -Scaffolding design, erection and dismantling -Rope access assistance · manage the FM activities following Services defined in the relevant Contracts ·Ensure that the HSE Rules and Company Specifications (in particular in term of QA/QC) are respected Job Description: ·Ensure that COMPANY HSE rules are respected and stop works when he detects / estimates a potential problem ·Ensure that the COMPANY’S rules and specifications are met (especially procedures related to works permits) as well as approved operating procedures and standard industry practice during performance on operations placed under responsibility ·Ensure that all Local regulations linked to his activities are respected ·Be key interface within FM Contractor Representative and COMPANY management in particular with Site maintenance Superintendant ·Participate to risks assessments ·Manage day to day activities (in particular in term of preparation) within his responsibility performed by Contractor (scheduling, team assignment, material management…) ·Supervise/manage Contractor(s) ·Verify the works are carried out following relevant Contractual and Technical Terms defined in the Contract ·Verify that best practises linked to his activities are met ·Verify that all procedures, specifications and standards are followed ·Ensure that the costs are met – participates to budget preparation ·Anticipate construction and stand by problems – reports, discuss and proposes solutions/alternatives ·Ensure that all QA/QC procedures are respected /applied and verifies that all required inspections and adequate measures are performed when requested and on time ·Verify/check the intervention reports are written and integrated in the CMIMS when required ·Manage interventions using the CMIMS ·Assist the planning team by giving any technical support for preparation of the jobs in his activities ·Verify the different material register are correctly completed and followed ·Verify that all FM Contractor’s personnel certifications, qualifications are in place, in line with Contract terms and site regulations/rules ·Identify additional resources needed to perform the works and prepare on time the relevant mobilization ·Prepare the daily / weekly / monthly reports with highlight, progress and required information ·Participate to all relevant meetings ·Prepare feedback files ·Assist with methods support and return information to ·Evaluate FM Contractor(s) performances and prepare KPI following requirements ·Participate to audits How to Apply http://www.maventeqsystems.com/www/index.php/careers Application Deadline: February 14th 2014 —————————————————— Job Vacancy at BBC Media Action Abuja for a Producer BBC Media Action is the international development charity of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), working in over 25 countries across the world. BBC Media Action works in partnership with local media agencies, civil society organisations, and governments to achieve long term development goals. We produce creative media content to inform and engage audiences, and strengthen the media sector by building professional skills and technical capacity. BBC Media Action Nigeria is looking for an interested and motivated candidate to join the Team as: Job Title: Producer (Media Dark Kit) Location: Abuja Responsibilities Generate research, write, record, edit or adapt programme materials, find contributors as well as other sources of material as appropriate and to required specification whilst maintaining high professional standards of accuracy. impartiality and fair dealing Undertake any additional recording of audio/video files for Media Dark Kit as required Review recordings to ensure conformity with broadcast standards and BBC editorial guidelines In consultation with Head of Production, determine production size, content, schedules and budgetas well as arrange financing for productions Ensure that all MDK material is completed and ready foruse in accordance with the agreed schedule. Prepare operational reports Monitor and ensure that expenses are in compliance with production budget Liaise with Producers of relevant content to identify thematic areas of their programmes to be adapted for Media Dark Kits Co-ordinate the activities of, presenters, musicians, actors and other resource persons during the programme production process Generate ideas on howto design, package and distribute user-friendly Media Dark Kit materials Generate programme ideas and actively contribute to the planning and editorial review process; Suggest new angles on existing topics with a view to effecting behavioural change while also considering the diverse nature of our audiences Perform any other duties that may be assigned. Requirements A good first degree in Graphic Arts, Creative Arts, English, the Social Sciences or any other relevant field Possess ability to analyze and critically evaluate editorial content, identifying strengths and weaknesses in programme content and drive for perfection Possess knowledge of media production, communication and basic information dissemination techniques Evidence of high level editorial skills and understanding of BBC editorial values Fluency in English and Hausa Languages Possess good communication and interpersonal skills and be well versed in the use of relevant designing software like Corel Draw Evidence of imagination and enthusiasm for generating new and original ideas particularly those with the widest possible audience appeal Competencies Analytical Thinking; Strategic Thinking; Imaginative/Creative Thinking; Decision Making; Planning and Organization; Managing relationships and team working; Resilience; Influencing and Persuading; Communication: and Self Development Remuneration and Conditions of Service Salary - N250,000.00 gross per month The position is Abuja based with frequent travel. The contract duration is for one year with possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funds. The start date is April 2014 with a probation period of 3 months How to Apply Interested and qualified candidates should please send in their application/cover letter with an introduction and capability statement stating capability for the job, a detailed curriculum vitae (word document please) with names and addresses of at least 2 professional referees (including their telephone, fax and email addresses) to: hrnigeria@bbcmediaaction.org with the position applied for clearly stated on the application cover letter. “Women are strongly encouraged to apply”. Kindly note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

You can subscribe to Job Vacancies in Nigeria, Jobs in Nigeria via your e-mail: www.recentnigerianjobs.com Application Deadline 20th February, 2014

FOR THE RECORDS

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, Febraury 13, 2014

JELILI ADESIYAN - MINISTERIAL - NOMINEE

President Goodluck Jonathan has just nominated Mr Jelili Adesiyan, the Education Commissioner under the illegal administration of former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Adesiyan was one of the alleged killers of the late Uncle Bola Ige, former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice. Below is a story published in Osun Defender Newspaper when the ministerial-nominee was the Education Commissioner in the State of Osun.

SARS Detains Oyinlola’s Commissioner Over Robbery aftermath of armed T HE political thuggery employed by the embattled Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to rig the 2007 general elections in Osun State, has taken its toll on the state Commissioner for Education, Mr Jelili Adesiyan, as he was detained and grilled by men of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) for allegedly aiding and abetting criminals. Adesiyan was invited, interrogated and detained by officers of the SARS at their office at Oke-Baale, Osogbo the state capital, on June 3, 2009, on the allegation that he armed a daredevil armed robbery gang with guns and other weapons. The interrogation of the commissioner came on the heels of key information given to the police by a widow called Iya Zukura in Modakeke, whose husband, (Mukaila) an armed robbery suspect, was killed in a gun-duel that ensued between the police and some dare-devil armed robbers. Iya Zukura, after the death of her husband, reportedly informed the police that her husband, Mukaila (Baba Zukura) was armed with guns and other weapons provided by Adesiyan during the 2007 general elections. OSUN DEFENDER gathered that Mukaila and other members of his gang – Aniyikaye, Rufus Oyediran a.k.a Arulogun and Waidi, who are currently at-large, were reportedly used to rig the April 14, governorship election in Odeomu. All members of the syndicate were allegedly armed with guns earlier provided by the Odeomuborn Commissioner for Education during the 2007 general elections. Investigation revealed that after the elections, the political thugs went into armed robbery, thereby terrorizing Odeomu community and other neighbouring towns. When the community could no longer bear the criminals activities of the four hoodlums, the leaders of the ancient town banished them from Odeomu and warned them from returning to the community. It was learnt that the four hoodlums were personal security aides of Adesiyan, who were mounting surveillance on his residence at night, in the community. Mukaila reportedly relocated to Modakeke, while Arulogun, Waidi

•ADESIYAN

By OUR REPORTER

and Aniyikaye reportedly relocated to Ilesa, where they allegedly continued their armed robbery operations. OSUN DEFENDER further gathered that Mukaila was shot sometime in May, 2009, in Modakeke during a robbery operation. Arulogun was arrested and released by officers of the SARS in June. A police source disclosed to the medium that all the accomplices of the deceased were at-large, stressing that the police has mapped out strategy to ambush the fleeing suspects including Arulogun, who was released. The medium learnt that the police went to the residence of

some hours while his pair of shoes,telephone handset, cap and his top wear (Agbada) were reportedly seized. The medium learnt that Adesiyan confessed to have known the late Mukaila. The Oyinlola’s commissioner disclosed that he met the deceased at Agodi Prisons yard, Ibadan, Oyo State, when he was remanded over his alleged complicity in the death of the former Minister for Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Bola Ige, in 2002. It would be recalled that Adesiyan and some other PDP chieftains were accused of conspiring with other murder suspects to kill the former Yoruba leader. Osun State PDP chairman, Ademola Rasak, Commissioner for Agriculture, Mr Adekunle Alao (Lele), Adesiyan, former chairman, Ife–East Local Government Council Area of the State, Lambe Oyasope, were accused of complicity in the murder of Chief Ige. Others alleged of killing the former AGF are: a PDP serving Senator, Iyiola Omisore, his brother, Alani Omisore and one Lekan Oyediran. However, after the interrogation, it was learnt that Adesiyan was detained for seven hours before his release was influenced by the leadership of the state police command. Besides, one Alhaji Bakare Lasisi Akomola had earlier attempted to bail the commissioner but without success, as the officials of the SARS reportedly turned-down his request. Adesiyan denied the allegation that he armed the deceased and his group with guns, maintaining that he had no idea about the armed robbery operation carried out by Mukaila and his gang. It would however be recalled that Senator Omisore was tried and subsequently discharged and acquitted over the minister ’s gruesome murder.

Mukaila at Oke-Amola, Modakeke, to search his apartment, where the widow, Iya Zukura, was arrested and brought to SARS office in Osogbo. According to the police source, the widow disclosed to the police during interrogation that her widower was armed with guns provided by Jelili Adesiyan in 2007. Iya Zukura reportedly said her windower had been going around with the gun until he was gun down by the police. Sequel to the disclosure of the information by the deceased’s widow, the officers of the SARS from invited Adesiyan for interrogation. •Culled OSUN DEFENDER learnt that DEFENDER the commissioner arrived at SARS office around 3pm on Wednesday (June 3, 2009) and was grilled for

OSUN

IN RETROSPECT

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, February 13, 2014

A Memorable Quote From A PDP Aspirant In The State Of Osun

“Recently, Chief Bola Ige came on radio here (Osogbo the state capital), to insult me and my family. THAT IS THE LAST TIME HE WOULD INSULT ME. He was beaten yesterday. The people of Ile-Ife beat him up and he was crying like a baby, as they removed his cap and glasses. If it had been at a political gathering, he will be dead by now..... In fact, what the people wanted to do was more than removing his glasses and cap....” -IYIOLA OMISORE. •Culled from Vanguard Newspaper.

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, February 13, 2014

PHOTOTALK

Launch Of Alapandede Film By Mrs Foluke Amere, Wife Of Federal House Of Representatives Member In Abuja, Honourable Gafar Amere, Held At Leisure Spring Photo: GBENGAADENIYI. Hotels In Osogbo Last Sunday.

•(L-R) The film producer, Mrs Foluke Amere; wife of the governor, State of Osun, Mrs Sherifat Aregbesola; Speaker, State of Osun House of Assembly, Honourable Najeem Salaam; Federal House of Representatives member representing Iwo/Ayedire/Ola Oluwa Federal Constituency, Honourable Gafar Amere (husband of the producer) and Senator Mudashiru Husein representing Osun East Senatorial zone in the senate, during the programme.

•(L-R) Former Speaker, State of Osun House of Assembly, Honourable Mojeed Alabi; All Progressives Congress (APC) State of Osun Interim Chairman, Elder Lowo Adebiyi and Chief of Staff to State of Osun Governor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, on the occasion.

•A members of the Federal House of Representatives, Honourable Abike Dabiri (left) in a discussion with Mrs Aregbesola at the event.

•Some of the Nollywood artistes at the programme.

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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2014 By NIYI AKINNASO

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OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Promise Point Building, Opposite Guaranty Trust Bank GTB, Gbongan Road, Osogbo, State of Osun. All correspondence to the Managing Editor, KOLA OLABISI, Telephone: 08033927286 (kolaolabisi@yahoo.com); Editor, KAYODE AGBAJE, Telephone: 0803-388-0205, E-mail: osundefender@yahoo.com, kayodeagbaje@yahoo.com. ISSN: 0794-8050.Website: www.osundefender.org.