Osun Defender - Feburary 2nd, 2016 Edition by OsunDefender

www.osundefender.org Tuesday, february 2, 2016 The outbreak of Lassa

Fever in the country, a deadly disease being transmitted by rats of many nipples, is not a palatable news. Since the outbreak of the disease in our country fear has gripped the populace especially with the report that the

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VOL. 11. NO.006

Curbing outbreak of Lassa Fever

disease has spread to not less than seventeen states of the federation. Amongst the states to which the disease has been reported to havespread our state cannot be left out as a doctor who died recently in Ile-Ife

was reported to have died of symptoms suspected to be that of Lassa Fever. Whether this is true or not, we see it as a matter of duty to educate our people on the need to maintain

a clean environment and to adhere strictly to the rules of personal hygiene as a dirty environment is an attraction to the specie of rats that are said to be the carriers of the disease.

We are happy that ever since the inception of the current administration the state has worn a new look as appreciable effort has been made by the government to promote clean envi-

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No doubt this government has done a lot not only in terms of creating awareness amongst the populace about the need to keep our environment clean which is a necessary condition to keep diseases at bay, ....Continue on pg5

- Pg 3 Osun Assembly Moves To Boom Transactions In Ayegbaju Market

13,920 Benefit From N2bn Micro-credit Loans In Osun - See Story On Page 2

â&#x20AC;˘State of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (2nd right); Executive Secretary, Osogbo Local Government Council Area, Mr Isiaka Faramade (2nd left); Mr Kola Wasiu Omotunde-Young (right) and others during the inspection tour of the Union Baptist Government School, Odi-Olowo, Osogbo last Friday by the governor.

Osun Monarchs Vindicate Aregbesola On Alleged Financial Mismanagement- Pg 2

Osun Defender Tuesday, February 2, 2016

News

13,920 Benefit From N2bn Micro-Credit Loan In

By KAZEEM MOHAMMED

he State of Osun Micro-credit Agency has stated that no fewer than 13, 920 have benefited from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) N2 billion micro-credit loans in the state within the last one year. The General Manager of the agency, Mr Dayo Babaranti, shortly after defending the disclosed this in an interview agency’s 2016 budget before with journalists in Osogbo

the House of Assembly Committee on Finance and Appropriation. According to him, the nine per cent interest rate on the loan was paid by the Governor Rauf Aregbesola administration, as part of his government’s commitment

to ensure economic development of the state. He said, the interest rate was paid between Oct. 2014 and Oct. 2015 when the loan was disbursed under Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) and Micro-credit loans.

Babaranti maintained that under the SME, beneficiaries could access up to N5 million, while under the micro-credit, beneficiaries could get up to N500,000. He revealed that so far, the agency had recovered

over N600 million from the beneficiaries and paid the same back to CBN, promising that the balance of the loan would be recovered at the due date from the beneficiaries. Babaranti noted for anyone to benefit from the loan, he must provide a guarantor, who is a serving state worker from level 10 and above.

Man In Court over N.5million •Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Fashola (right) and Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State, during the minister’s factfinding visit to Makurdi in Benue State recently.

Osun Monarchs Vindicate Aregbesola On Alleged Financial Mismanagement

By FRANCIS EZEDIUNO

raditional rulers in the State of Osun have cleared the air on the lingering allegation of financial mismanagement, administrative ineptitude and recklessness levelled against the current administration of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola by the members of the opposition. The royal fathers gave the in theirsome separate Identifying of remarks, while playing a vindication host on the delegation of the successes recorded the State of Osun Police b y t h e A r e g b e s o l a Community Relations a d m i n i s t r a t i o n , O b a Committee (PCRC), led Lawal said the current by its State Chairman, administration in the state Comrade Amitolu Shittu. has prudently managed the In his address, the resources of the state for Timi of Edeland, Oba the general well-being of Muniru Adesola Lawal, the citizenry, adding that while receiving the state the governor’s laudable leadership of PCRC, achievements can never expressed disappointment be over-emphasized. The royal father in what he described as unfounded, baseless and further explained that the frivolous, the allegation present administration of financial recklessness, has demonstrated high purportedly credited to the sense of commitment members of the opposition towards the plights of the parties against Ogbeni masses, affirming that the Aregbesola, affirming current administration had that the current economic also maximized the little hardship was not in any resources of the state for way the fault of the the betterment of all. Oba Lawal lamented governor. The royal father, who over the state of the attributed the present n a t i o n ’ s e c o n o m y, economic complications especially its effects on to what he described as the the life of the states of effects of negligence of the the federation, reiterating past administrations in the that had it been the past country, noted that Nigeria a d m i n i s t r a t i o n s h a d would not have been in its looked beyond the oil current economic mess, if boom, Nigeria would the past governments had have been the best among diversified the nation’s its peers in the world. The traditional ruler God-given abundant expressed optimism in resources. The traditional ruler, the agricultural potentials w h o c o m m e n d e d of the country, which, A r e g b e s o l a f o r according to him, has the repositioning the state capacity to take the nation to the path of greatness to the greatest heights of among its peers, despite economic prosperity. Oba Lawal, who the challenges posed by the present economic recounted back to early situation, said the governor 50’s, when the economic had proven his weights main-stay of Nigeria was as a true leader, whose purely on agriculture and passion for development solid minerals, added that of his state can never be despite this non-oil sector, the entire country was distorted.

successfully governed. The royal father commended the late Obafemi Awolowo for his genuine foresight and undoubting selfless efforts, which according to him, brought Nigeria and Africa to the frontline of socio-political and economic liberation in the world. He stressed that the downward trend in the global prices of crude oil was a signal to the fact that the time has come, where a nation could only succeed through productivity, industrialization and commercialization. “I want to say emphatically that the current economic hardship is not the fault of Governor Aregbesola because we all know that the price of crude oil has dropped sharply in the international market and this downturn has culminated to the present situation. “The current government in the state has been doing its best in all areas of the economy, especially on security, as we all know that our state is one of the peaceful states in Nigeria. “People should stop blaming or pointing accusing fingers at Mr. Governor for this because to me, it is not his fault. What we need to do now is to extend our support and collaboration to the governor as obedient citizens and as well perform our civic duties to government through regular tax payment,” Oba Lawal stated. The monarch, who described tax as grease that lubricates the wheel of progress, canvassed support for the current

government in Nigeria, especially the State of Osun. He therefore, urged the current government to also look inward and go back to the economic drawing board, so as to facilitate the desired socioeconomic prosperity and political sustainability in the country. Also in their separate remarks, the Akire of Ikire, Oba Olatunde Falabi and Alayegun of Ode-Omu, Oba Lamidi Oke, eulogized Ogbeni Aregbesola for prioritizing security and education in the state, saying his efforts on the sectors had impacted meaningfully in the lives of the people. The duo maintained that the procurement of security facilities by the current government has reduced drastically, the crime rate in the state. The royal fathers further stated that the provision of security vehicles by the state government has helped to re-awaken the security consciousness of the people in their towns, adding that the noble initiatives has equally gone a long way towards the protection of lives and property of their subjects. They reiterated that the current administration in the state has supported with adequate security apparatus and necessary equipment, which, according to them, had rescued the state from all forms of criminal activities. The traditional rulers stated that the kind gesture o f M r. G o v e r n o r o n security, most importantly, the provision of Armour Personnel Carriers (APC), to all the security agencies across the local government council areas in the state has really helped to stem the tide of insecurity in their various

communities. The duo further remarked that the drastic security measures taken by the present administration has positioned the state to be one of the peaceful states in Nigeria, saying for that initiatives, the administration ought to be commended. The royal fathers however, condemned the allegation of financial mismanagement levelled against the state governor by a section of the public, saying instead of pointing fingers of blames on the governor or anyone whatsoever, there is a need for the people to study the circumstances around the nation’s economy, which according to them, culminated to the present situation. They therefore, advised the people to remain hopeful and prayerful for quick economic recovery of the state and Nigeria at large. Meanwhile, the monarchs, who earlier commended the leadership and members of the State Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) for their prompt security intervention in the state, said their productive and proactive contributions towards the actualization of a secured state had yielded meaningful results in years past.

By shina abubane Adewale Gideon was last Thursday a r r a i g n e d b e f o re a n Osogbo Magistrate’s Court for allegedly stealing the sum of N552,750. The charge sheet disclosed that the suspect stole the amount, being property of one Aworanti Oluwatosin and thereby committed an offence, which was contrary to and punishable under section 390(60) of Criminal Code Laws of Osun State, Nigeria. According to the charge sheet, the suspect committed the offence sometimes around August 2015 at Marrytunes Company located at Iludun area of Osogbo, the State of Osun capital, at about 2.00pm. However, the suspect pleaded not guilty to the court charge preferred against him by the police. Defence counsel, Okobe Nagite, urged the court to grant the accused person bail, saying the suspect had reliable sureties and would not jump bail if admitted. Police prosecutor, Mr Fagboyinbo Abiodun, however did not oppose the bail application, but implored the court that the accused’s sureties should be verified by the police. Magistrate A. Olowolagba then granted the suspect’s bail application in the sum of N1 million, with two sureties in like sum, adding that one of the sureties should be the suspect’s close relation, while the other must reside within the court’s jurisdiction. Olowolagba, then adjourned the case till 10 March, 2016 for further hearing.

News

Osun Defender Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Osun Assembly Moves to Boom Transactions In Ayegbaju problems hampering they claimed, often designated places for By kazeem mohammed

raders at Ayegbaju International

Market, Osogbo, the State of Osun capital, have been urged to cooperate and support the current efforts to restore the original status of the market, in line with the expected standard of market transactions. C h a i r m a n , S t a t e noted that the major of Osun House of problem at stake is Assembly Committee non-conformity with o n C o m m e r c e , the expected order of Industry, Cooperatives tranacting business. He maintained and Empowerment, that the essence of Honourable Babatunde the gathering was Olatunji, made the to interact with the appeal in his opening traders and seek their remark at the interactive meeting held with opinions with a view traders on how to to strategising on how restore normalcy at to move forward. The meeting was the market. an opportunity for Adetunji, who shop owners, as well observed that the as kiosk and counter market is the biggest owners to explain and and most modern put on record what they in the South-West, considered to be the

the smooth take-off and operations in the market. Speaking on behalf of the shop owners, Mrs Ashiat Oyekanmi and Mr Emanuel Ogunrinde decried complete departure of the authority from the initial agreement bordering on rent and outright purchase of shops. They also bemoaned indiscriminate scattering of counters and kiosks around the premises which,

impede transactions, calling on the House committee to come to their rescue, just as the kiosk owners requested for designated place and specifications on structures to be constructed. In their separate remarks, the Iyaloja, General of the state, A l h a j a Aw a w u Asindemade and the representative of Babaloja-General traced the problem to past mistakes observed in lack of plan for

specific items in market transactions. The duo, who commended the state legislature on efforts to ensure that the market takes off on smooth note, said the plan of the committee and the essence of the meeting was to restore normalcy in terms of orderly arrangement of articles of trade. While appealing for support and cooperation to achieve desired objectives, they called for tolerance

and accommodation of traders from neighbouring towns, just as they urged them to shun overpricing in order to attract customers and encourage more sales. Earlier, the Coordinating Director, Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Cooperative and Empowerment, Mr Abimbola Osho,

NGO Calls For Provision Of Elderly

By ismaeel uthman

orried by the neglect being experienced by the elderly people in the country, a Non-Governmental

Organization, Caring Hands International

(CHI), has called on governments at all levels to provide Elderly Peoples’ Home for the old people to enable them feel a sense of belonging. T h e E x e c u t i v e the difficulty of the elder Director of CHI, Mrs in obtaining access to Fehintola Obilomo, medical care. “All entitlements who expressed of the elderly persons dissatisfaction on should be given to them what she described without delay. We want as unpleasant status of elderly people in to have a society, where the society, said that the vulnerable and the organization was disadvantaged persons proposing a recreational will have a right to centre for the old people s u s t a i n a b l e l i v i n g in some parts of the in their respective communities within the country. Obilomo, in a press context of sustainable conference held in human development.” Obilomo also Osogbo at the weekend solicited support for as part of activities t o m a r k i t s 1 0 t h elderly people, whose anniversary of the CHI, h e a l t h c o n d i t i o n s said that it was high require eye operations, time the government at noting that eye problem all levels showed more has been a common care and give adequate challenge of the elderly. Lamenting the spate attention to the senior citizens of the country. of unemployment in S h e s a i d : the country, Obilomo “Governments at all disclosed that the NGO levels are called upon was partnering with the to take the plights of National Directorate the elderly citizens of Employment, with seriously. These are a view to reducing people who had spent unemployment in the the whole of their lives country. She maintained to build the structures and facilities we are all that the organization was committed to enjoying today. “As in the civilized world, special provisions should be made for the elderly; Geriatric Wards should be created in all state and federal health facilities to minimize

•Photo of the day: An armless young man who writes with his feet, graduated from Kyambogo University.

Ooni Launches Mass Transit Scheme In Ile-Ife

By SOLA JACOBS

he Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), has boosted the economy of the city by launching a mass transit bus scheme to aid easy and affordable transportation in and around the ancient town and its environs. Launching the mass as well as boosting the transit scheme in his palace, tourism industry of IleOba Enitan Ogunwusi said Ife as there was need for the exercise was to provide decent and comfortable comfortable transportation transportation for tourists for the people of the city,

•Ooni Ogunwusi

visiting the town. The event, which was witnessed by monarchs and prominent sons and daughters of the land, was applauded as a step to revive the economy of the land, as it will have multiplier effect on the people of the land. Speaking on the good gestures of the monarch, the Jaaran of Ile-Ife, Oba Adekola Adeyeye, said the Ooni had repeated the feat of the late Babalaje of the source, Chief Adeyemo Ijiwoye, who introduced taxi cabs as means of transportation to the people of the city about 40 years ago. He further stressed that poor economy, coupled with poor infrastructure, had negatively impacted transportation business, as most of the taxis in the town are now rickety and unfit for transportation. The Jaaran disclosed that the unavailability of decent means of transportation has resulted in making commercial motorcyclists to thrive at the expense of artisanship, which had impacted negatively on the

lives of the youths. Oba Adeyeye therefore, called on individuals and corporate organizations, who are friends of the ancient city, to support the monarchs to develop the ancestral home of the Yoruba and blacks in Diaspora, as he had kickstarted the development process in the ancient city. T h e O SU N DEFENDER investigation revealed that the buses will not only ply Ile-Ife metropolis, but will as well shuttle Modakeke and its environs. The mass transit scheme was financed by Olofin Micro Finance Bank and it will provide jobs for about 200 youths of the city, who will serve as drivers and bus attendants.

CULTURE

Osun Defender Tuesday, February, 2016

Of Culture And Roots

By ELIAS HAKEEM ADEYINKA

ust like the proverbial cat with many lives, culture, the complete way of life of the people, has continued unabated to die come what may. This is a particular aspect of every meaningful individual in any given society or clime to have stood the test of time. It remains an inevitable issue like a northern star, which remains constant. Culture defines the cumulative integrity of man via his roots and identification. It is a signpost of people. It has come to stay like a dye in the wool, with people of proud roots. Culture not only depicts the tradition, well-being and welfare of people, but a pointer to the way we are. From the local delicacies, music, dance, dance steps, aesthetic designs, paintings, folklores, folktales to the language, clothes, drumming, drama, local wrestling and a host of others; the list is legion. Each political zone within the six geo-political zones in Nigeria has continued to embrace and identify themselves with their culture and traditions. The Durbar in the North, the Atilogwu in the South, Osun Osogbo in the State of Osun and Ojude Oba in Ogun State; all within South West. The Anioma festival in the South all are jealously carried out on yearly basis and guided by their people with pomp and pageantry each passing year. Culture encompasses and synchronizes our norms and values in the society. It also serves as a reference point. This cuts across every facet of human endeavours, regardless of race. This is so because the irresistible western-influence education on the black race, given the preponderance of the super-highway technology,

coupled with the attendant social media network, African-American culture will continue to stay atop. There is no doubt that cultural imperialism, which accompanies the super-highway technology, is overwhelming. The reference points here are the social media contents. All ill-mannered habits inundate the users of the social media. The phonographs, which are adjudged as the best words of the year by Oxford dictionaries, are aspects within the framework and the design of the social media network. It has filtered and seemed to have watered down our much-revered culture. This is reflected as a misnomer in our much-cherished dress code in the African sense of it. The nudity, which is ridiculously allowed in the social media, is condemned within the African setting. The traditional plaiting of hair-do by our beautiful girls and women across the breadth and length of the black race, was much adored many years ago. In the South West of Nigeria, we value varieties hair-do such as Suku, Panumo, Patewo, Kojusoko. Others are Ipako-elede, Ajanloso, Ayiluko and a host of others. The above-named hair styles are admirable and attractive among our female folk. These cannot be comparable to the western-influenced artificial hair style, which our black female folks do crazy about. Over 60 percent of our ladies prefer the foreign hair styles with the attendant frenzy use of “attachment” as an addendum to their hairs. Does this depict the beauty in them? The pro-African writer, Franzt Fanon, wrote in his award-winning great book: “Black Skin, White Mask” in which he x-rayed the continued propensity for African female-folks

to always wanting to look, act, behave like the whites. Comparatively, he highlighted the refusal of the whitefolks to copy and behave like us. Why the other way round? We are not copycats. Are we? Franzt Fanon is also the author of ‘The wretched of the Earth.’ e must begin to appreciate W what is ours. The muchcopied western tattooing by the blacks both at home and in Diasporas had always been with us. Nostalgically, in days gone by, our female folks, especially during pre-marital exercise, women adorn their bodies; legs, hands, stomach with either their maiden names or names of their potential husbands. This is still common among Hausa-Fulani in the northern part of Nigeria; and in the western axis. But this act has been abused over and over again .The tattooing is known as Laelae in the northern part of Nigeria. The Ethiopians and Moroccans have been known to have championed and perfected the act of tattooing. Close to this cultural illustrations are the inter-tribal marks. The Ebiras and Igalas in the Okuns, Igbominas in Kwara State, the whole SouthWestern part of Nigeria; the Oyo, Osun, Ondo and parts of Delta states refer to inter-tribal marks as Pele, Keke, Gombo, Abajaoro. Others are Ondo kan, Baamu. These were means of identification, especially during war times and inter-tribal clashes; the Egbas, Ibibios, Nupes, Fulanis, Kanuris, the Ijebus, Ekitis, Oyos to mention just a few. The African culture also encourages beautiful and meaningful names such as Oluwadamilare, Oluwafunmike, Omotoyosi, Oluwabukola, Oluwadarasimi, Oluwanifemi, one will be amazed to realize that the

Africa female folks prefer imported names such as Blossom, Anita, Mata, Clement, Comfort. They even go extra-mile in fine-tuning our names; Bukola (Bukky), Funke (Funky), Damilola (Dammy) and a host of others. This piece will not be complete without mentioning the eating habit of my people. It is no surprise to see our people, who can no longer eat with their bare hands. They eat African meals; Eba, Iyan, Fufu Tuwo with forks and spoons. But there is no way one can savour African meals without the licking of fingers. Black is beautiful. In our clime, it is forbidden to give, take, let alone eat with left hands. The reverse is the case these days. This is absurd and must be condemned in its entirety. The blacks, both at home and in Diasporas, have more often than not tend towards foreign culture. Your root is your stronghold. We must not compromise it. Just like Chairman Mao, the leader of Chinese revolutionary dream, when he advocated many years ago that French assimilation should not be discarded but part of westernoriented tendencies should be merged with positive and expedient aspects of black cultural heritage. This must be encouraged and it should form the base of our collective legacies for our children and the posterity, yet unborn. Black represents strength, vigour and vitality. Just like how the African American poet of the U.S, Mrs Maya Anyagolu, put it succinctly: “Don’t judge me by the colour of my hairs.” Blacks in general should therefore rise up to the occasion and appreciate and applaud our culture and root.

Osun Defender Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Curbing outbreak of Lassa Fever ...continued from pg1 but also in ensuring that people imbibe the culture of cleanli-

ness. As we know cleanliness is next to Godliness.

As it is now the state of Osun cannot be said to be a dirty state. As a matter of fact the state has been reported to be one of the cleanest states in the federation. This feat is made possible due to the cleanliness awareness campaign of the Aregbesola administration. This notwithstanding, we

must continue to hammer on the importance of clean environment so as to avoid any backslide on the part of our people most especially during this period that we are faced with the challenge of getting rid of Lassa Fever in our society. It’s important to stress it that dealing with this disease and getting rid of it is not the sole responsibility of the government alone. As a matter of fact, much work lies with us as citizens and that is to continue to do more in terms of promoting environmental and personal hygienes. At the collective

Nigeria Not Yet A NaS omeone called me from London probing to find out what l es so n s I learn t during the last campaign and elections in Nigeria. I learnt a hell a lot! I will put my experiences in a book someday. Quickly, I swaddled them up in five quick snapshots: Nigeria is not yet a nation; we are just an assembly and conglomerate of people who are only tolerant of one another for different reasons. Individually, there are Yorubas who love Igbos; there are Igbos who love Hausas; there are Itsekiris who love Tivs, and there are Ijesas who love Ogonis. We all have friends we truly love in all zones, and many of them have become family members. But corporately, there is a deep inter-ethnic hatred that has overshadowed, and that threatens to eviscerate any kind of individual love or admiration we may have for one another. The acrimony is at an acerbic and acrid

level. If you leave the door of your house wide open in the spirit of nicety and kindness, all manners of characters will come in. If you are too lax, they will become your landlord, and before you know it, you and your children will not only become tenants to your tenants, but you will end up

as homeless ignoramuses, roaming the same streets that run past the same house that your fathers built. So, beware! You must know your history and teach them to those who have no knowledge of it, especially your children. It’s in the Bible… Deuteronomy 6 vs. 7 – “…thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of

them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou rises up”. The history lesson must be continuous. History not taught or learnt can be rerewritten by those who don’t know your beginning. God has given every man his own well; but there are

those who want to greedily control yours and theirs at the same time. If you let them, they will. And your fathers will be rolling in their graves in anger and shame about a child they had no business bringing to this world. All ethnic groups in Nigeria can live together in harmony; and I think we will. But we must know

resort to self medication. Anyone who notices abnormal body temperature must quickly report to the nearby health facility so as to avoid degeneration. As the saying goes prevention is always better than cure. Let’s all join hands with the governments in their efforts to containing this scourge. All hands need to be on deck to keep this disease at bay just like we did for Ebola.

level we must ensure a clean, neat and disease-free environment while at personal level we must adhere strictly to the rules of personal hygiene by ensuring constant washing of our hands most especially before we eat anything. We must also cover our foods properly and ensure that our foods are properly cooked before consumption and we should endeavour to avoid contacts with rats. Also since it has been observed that symptoms of Lassa Fever are almost the same as that of Ebola, we urge our people not to

what line separates the North West from North Central, North-East from South East, and SouthSouth from Southwest. The lines are there; they will never fade. In the spirit of the labours of our heroes past, we must all respect them. Then we will live happy ever after.

• F ola O j o , a n indigene of Osun lives in the United States of America.

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osun Defender Tuesday, February

Watermelon: Health Benefits and Nutritional espite popular belief D

that watermelon is made up of only water and sugar, watermelon is actually considered a nutrient dense food, a food that provides a high amount of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants for a low amount of calories. Watermelons have become synonymous with summer and picnics, and for good reason. Their refreshing quality and sweet taste help to combat the heat and also provide a guiltfree, low maintenance dessert for kids and adults alike to enjoy. Along with cantaloupe and honeydew, watermelons are a member of the botanical family Cucurbitaceae. There are five common types of watermelon: seeded, seedless, mini (also known as personal), yellow and orange. Possible health benefits of watermelon Consuming fruits and vegetables of all kinds has long been associated with a reduced risk of many lifestylerelated health conditions. Many studies have suggested that increasing consumption of plant foods like watermelon decreases the risk of obesity and overall mortality, diabetes, heart disease and promotes a healthy complexion and hair, increased energy, overall lower weight. Along with cantaloupe and honeydew, watermelons are a member of the botanical family Cucurbitaceae. Asthma prevention: The risks for developing asthma are lower in people who consume a high amount of certain nutrients. One of these nutrients is vitamin C, found in many fruits and vegetables including watermelon. Blood pressure: A study published by the American Journal of Hypertension found that watermelon extract supplementation reduced ankle blood pressure, brachial blood pressure and carotid wave reflection in obese middle-aged adults with prehypertension or stage 1 hypertension and that watermelon extract improved arterial function. Diets rich in lycopene may help protect against heart disease. Cancer: As an excellent source of the strong antioxidant vitamin C as well as other antioxidants, watermelon can

help combat the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer. Lycopene intake has been linked with a decreased risk of prostate cancer prevention in several studies. Digestion and regularity: Watermelon, because of its water and fiber content, helps to prevent constipation and promote regularity for a healthy digestive tract. Hydration: Made up of 92% water and full of important electrolytes, watermelon is a great snack to have on hand during the hot summer months to prevent dehydration. Inflammation: Choline is a very important and versatile nutrient in watermelon that aids our bodies in sleep, muscle movement, learning and memory. Choline also helps to maintain the structure of cellular membranes, aids in the transmission of nerve impulses, assists in the absorption of fat and reduces chronic inflammation. Muscle soreness: Watermelon and watermelon juice have been shown to reduce muscle soreness and improve recovery time following exercise in athletes. Researchers believe this is likely do to the amino acid L-citrulline contained in watermelon. Skin: Watermelon is also great for your skin because it contains vitamin A, a nutrient required for sebum production

that keeps hair moisturized. Vitamin A is also necessary for the growth of all bodily tissues, including skin and hair. Adequate intake of vitamin C (one cup of watermelon provides 21% of daily needs) is also needed for the building and maintenance of collagen, which provides structure to skin and hair. Watermelon also contributes to overall hydration, which is vital for having healthy looking skin and hair. Nutritional breakdown of watermelon ne c u p o f d i c e d O watermelon (152 grams) contains 43 calories, 0 grams of fat, 2 milligrams of sodium, 11 grams of carbohydrate (including 9 grams of sugar) and 1 gram of fiber. One cup of watermelon will provide 17% of vitamin A, 21% of vitamin C, 2% of iron and 1% of calcium needs for the day. Watermelon also contains thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, choline, lycopene and betaine. According to the National Watermelon Promotion Board, watermelon contains more lycopene than any other fruit or vegetable. Despite being a great source of the above nutrients,

watermelon is made up of 92% water. How to incorporate more watermelon into your diet Jazz up a boring salad by adding watermelon or add to a few ice cubes in a blender for a cold refreshing treat! Look for a watermelon that is firm, heavy and symmetrical without soft spots or bruising. Place diced watermelon and a few ice cubes in a blender for a cold refreshing treat thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfect for rehydrating after exercise or a day in the sun. Jazz up a boring salad by adding watermelon, mint and fresh mozzarella to a bed of spinach leaves. Drizzle with balsamic. Visit the National Watermelon Boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recipe site for even more fun, inventive ideas on how to incorporate more watermelon into your diet. Potential health risks of consuming watermelon It is the total diet or overall eating pattern that is most important in disease prevention and achieving good health. It is better to eat a diet with variety than to concentrate on individual foods as the key to

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osun Defender Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Go o d G o v e r osun Defender Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Rauf Revolution:

Five Years On In The Saddle This edition, an obvious continuation of last weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s is a promise kept in the direction of showcasing the full details of the ground-breaking feats recorded by the Government Unusual of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola within the space of five years and two months in office. NIYI OLASINDE, through this documentary effort, relives the giant strides of the development Colossus, in order that they do not go down the drains of forgotten history.

â&#x20AC;˘Governor Rauf Aregbesola distributing instructional materials to State High School pupils in Osogbo sometime ago.

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osun Defender Tuesday, February

National Economic Council Meeting At The Presidential Villa In Abuja Recently.

•State of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (left) in a handshake with Kwara State Governor, Abdul Fatai Ahmed (right) while Federal Road Safety Corp, Corp-Marshal Boboye Oyeyemi watches.

•Minister of State, Solid Mineral , Abubakar Bawa Buari, Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Wziri Tambuwa and Governor Ahmed.

Press Briefing On The Situation Report On Suspected Case Of Lassa Fever in Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital In Ile-Ife, At The Ministry Of Health, Osogbo, State Of Osun Recently.

•From Right- Director, Primary Health Care/Disease Control, Ministry of Health, State of Osun, Dr Kayode Ogunniyi; Permanent Secretary, Dr Temitope Oladele and Former Special Adviser to the State of Osun Governor on Health, Dr Rauf Isamotu.

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Governor, State Of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Honoured With Omoluabi Of Yorubaland Title By Alaafin Of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, At Government House, Osogbo, Recently

•State of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (middle); the Alafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi (left) and Engineer Omon Uduokhai (right).

Conferment Of A Distinguished Almnus Award To The Minister of Information And Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, At Obafemi Awolowo Univbersity, Ile-Ife, Last Friday.

•Dean, Faculty of Arts, OAU, Professor Gbemisola Adeoti (left), presenting the portrait of the layout of the university to Alhaji Lai Mohammed on the occasion.

•(L-R) Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Communication and Community Development, Mr Kehinde Bamigbetan; Professor Gbemisola Adeoti; Alhaji Lai Mohammed and Special Assistant to the Minister of Information, Mr Segun Adeyemi, during the event.

osun Defender Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Five Years On In The Sad-

•Some of the Armoured Personnel Carriers acquired by Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s administration. Continued from last week

N the 26th of November, 2010, the administration of Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola came alive through the justice it got via the judgment delivered by the courageous judges of the Federal Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State. That verdict delivered ended a three-yearold legal tussle that had dominated the political scene; and which had set eyes wide open with consummate expectations. Following the April14, 2007 Gubernatorial Elections in the state, the governorship aspirant under the auspices of the Action Congress (AC) of the time, Engineer Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola and his political party had approached the constituted election petitions tribunal and courts of competent jurisdiction for redress over alleged widespread electoral malpractices and irregularities in up to ten (10) out of the thirty (30) local government council areas and one area office which the state is comprised of. In the legal suit, the candidate for the opposition party (the ruling party of the time), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, his political frontier, the National Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) and the law enforcement agencies were joined in the suit alleging them culpable in the widespread irregularities and attendant violence that greeted the declaration of the results of the election. As a matter of fact, the 2007 Gubernatorial Election in the state was a charade, and everything far from a free, fair, credible and transparent election. The state and its residents witnessed gross rape of democracy, as they were terrorized to forcefully accept the forced imposition of the incumbent governor of the time for the second term. Unfortunately for the perpetrators of the foisting, the fraud was perpetrated at a time when a good majority of the people saw a change in the baton of leadership not only as important, but also as necessary, desirable and larger than life. On its own part, the administration of the time and the political party that gave impetus to it insisted that maintaining the status-quo ante was incontrovertible. In effect, the latter resorted to the use of force; which led a situation where

things started falling apart for the state. During the three-and-a-half-year period in which the legal tussle lasted, it came up for hearing before the first election petitions tribunal; the first Appeal Court, which referred it back to a reconstituted election petitions tribunal; before it came for final hearing before the second Federal Court of Appeal. As it stood at the time, many pessimists and strong believers in the vanity of brazen power felt that the case was a sure-win for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its governor. This was more so as the powers-that-be at the federal level and in other parts of the country threw their weight behind the falsehood of the claim and criminal hold on power by their party. Gladly, God’s intervention came on November 26, 2010, when the courageous judges of the Federal Appellate Court situated at Ibadan in Oyo State in a unanimous judgment granted virtually all the prayers of the petitioners when it cancelled the votes in all the local government council areas where election irregularities were recorded; thereby upholding the election of the first petitioner and sacking the illegal tenure of the first respondent. Following the discharge of this verdict, Engineer Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola was ordered to be sworn in immediately as governor of the State of Osun. Consequent upon this, on Saturday, November 27, 2010, Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola was sworn in as the fourth democratically elected governor of the State of Osun. With that swearing-in ceremony, the stage was set for a fast-tracked, accelerated pace of progress and development which is unprecedented in the annals of the state. Even though the emergence of any new administration could be likened to an untrodden path which destination is unknown, uncertain and indefinite, the fact that the people of the state desired for a change and that they demonstrated that desire with their power of the thumb in the April 2007 Governorship Elections spurred them into a frenzy at that earliest stage of the administration. The wild jubilations which greeted the declaration of Ogbeni Aregbesola as governor went down in history as first of its kind in these parts of the globe. Not even a similar event recorded in nearby Ekiti State a month previous

could match it. Osogbo, the state capital shook to its basest foundations. Similar event was recorded in all towns and villages throughout the local government council areas in the state. The jubilations witnessed as aftermath of the November 2010 declaration of Ogbeni was a proof to the fact that a good majority of the people demonstrated their joy toward their liberation from the demonstration of their collective will which had hitherto been suppressed. It became clear who the people actually voted for in the 2007 Gubernatorial Elections. The mammoth crowd at the inauguration ceremony on November 27 that year came as another convincing point. If at such short notice that magnitude of crowd could converge to witness an event, then that event, its motive and raison detre must be a populist one._ Slightly above five years later, we are here to confirm that the jubilations with which the people greeted the administration were not misplaced. The landmark, monumental and unprecedented achievements of the administration has justified their jubilations. OSUN DEFENDER Magazine shall at this stage dwell briefly on these achievements which make that administration conform truly to its appellation as “Government Unusual”. This effort shall to a large corroborate similar ones kick-started last week; though breaking new frontiers shall be endeavored. First in its line-up of achievements was the introduction in December 2010 of the State of Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme (OYES), which came as a timely intervention to salvage the youth of the state from the savage grip of poverty, lack and squalor occasioned by unemployment. Earlier during his time of preparation, Aregbesola had placed timely identification on unemployment as a major albatross plaguing the state in particular and the nation in general. In reasonable response to that, he promised to provide 20,000 jobs for the youths of the state within the space of his first 100 days in office, should he be given the mandate to serve as the helmsman of the state. Details of relevant portions of this as contained in his manifesto document titled “My Pact With the People of State of Osun” are here presented: Continued on page 11

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Five Years On In The Saddle (II)

•Adenle Middle School at Ayetoro, Osogbo, built by Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s administration. Continued from page 10

SIX POINT INTEGRAL ACTION PLAN · Banish Poverty · Banish Hunger · Banish Unemployment (Create Work/Wealth) · Restore Healthy Living · Promote Functional Education · Enhance Communal Peace and Progress BANISH UNEMPLOYMENT (CREATE WORK& WEALTH) No job loss, more jobs. Osun people are peaceful, dignified and hardworking people who desire and deserve gainful employment for their children and themselves. Rather than policies that will create employment and wealth for the people, the policies of the PDP government in place serve to enrich few at the expense of majority of our people. As part of our GOVERNMENT UNUSUAL programme, I Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola make a pact with you good people of the State of Osun, in the presence and by the grace of God Almighty that our government shall create immediate employment for 20,000 people within our 100 days in office. 5,000 of these places shall be reserved for those who were retrenched and are still willing and able to work. As a people-friendly government, our policies shall help to: · Create economic environment that ensures availability of jobs for all Osun indigenes. · Establish one LIFE ACADEMY in each of the three Senatorial constituencies for the building of life- long skills in out of schools, youngsters as well as adults seeking alternative competencies. · Promote labour exchange centres to facilitate employment of graduates from our Life Academies.” Aregbesola matched his words with action as he, at the inception stage of his administration made a call for applications in hard copies

and on-line for the expression of interest from youth of the state to be enlisted in the State of Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme (OYES). Throughout all the local government council areas in the state, applications came in; so much that true reflection damned over the extent of devastating blow which unemployment had dealt the state and its youths. It became surprising, millions of applications received from that exercise! The most important thing, which today passes for a feat is how the Aregbesola administration was at that infancy stage of his administration able to provide productive engagement for 20,000 vibrant youths of the state under the State of Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme (OYES)! Then, till date, the Aregbesola administration became the envy of all other states, the inept Federal Government of the time; as well as the international organizations, all categories of which have at one time or the other lent their voices and active support to the scheme. We place on record how some states had invented some replica of the scheme. Even the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-led Federal Government, under the helmsmanship of Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (GEJ) through its “YESSO” and Subsidy Reinvestment Programme (SURE P) attested to it that they attempted at borrowing a leaf from the sagacity of the invention of Rauf Revolution – the State of Osun Youth Employment Scheme (OYES). As it has turned out today, not only has the scheme recorded huge success, but it has also replicated itself by producing several successive streams. In other words, annual subsequent batches of 20,000 youths have been employed and empowered, thus engaging an average of 60,000 youths under four years. The import of this feat is that that same number of families in the state has been saved from poverty, while on the average, an amount of N200 million is being injected into the economy of the state monthly. This feat is astonishing! A later offshoot came out of the OYES

programme; a further attestation to the fact that the scheme has replicated itself. That programme is OYES Tech, which provides training in technical and technological skills to participants in the scheme who have graduated and intend to establish a vocation of their own. Under it, trainings are available in computer assemblage, servicing and repairs as well as repairs and component assemblage of communication assemblage of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment. At a stage in the life of the administration, call was being made out to enlist former OYES cadets and other interested members of the public into an enlarged version of training being organized under the aegis of OYES Tech; almost at no cost! We have also witnessed the absorption of a reasonable segment of the OYES former cadets into the civil / public service of the state; either as teachers or as clerical careerists. Another segment has taken up vocation in farming under the aegis of the Osun Rural Enterprise and Agricultural Programme (OREAP). Subdivisions of the OREAP programme where they are functioning include O’ Beef, O’ Honey, O’ Fish and others like them (as adduced to in the last edition). The task would remain quite incomplete if we fail to mention the training of some of the OYES former cadets in the modern practice of agriculture in Saxony, Germany. All these have been discussed to greater details in earlier segments of this series.

UCH transformation has been witnessed in the Agricultural subsector since the advent of the Rauf Aregbesola administration in the State of Osun. On yearly basis, the announcement comes live on the state-owned media stations of names of fresh allottees for farming on the various farm settlements within the confines of the state. These same announcements are relayed on the pages of some renowned national dailies. Continued on page 12

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Five Years On In The Saddle Continued from page 11

population is engaged in this industry and all forms of farming enterprises. In full cognizance of this fact, the Rauf Aregbesola administration has vowed not to renege in its determined efforts at investing massively in food production, food security and agriculture in entirety. The activities of government in this regard have transcended mere lip-service. The Osun Rural Enterprise and Agricultural Programme (OREAP) has taken off effectively since year 2011. It has, during the years given birth to such other programmes like O’ Beef, O’ Fish, O’ Honey and chicken production. It has also till date served as life-giver and sustainer to the State of Osun Elementary Schools Feeding and Health Programme (O’MEALS). The number of “O” programmes in this connection is still counting. As the 2012 Budget contained much promise in the area of agriculture, so it was that at the end of the year, the trust of the people for a fruitful year of bumper harvest was not betrayed. This position is true of the state and of the incumbent administration up till date. The incumbent administration under the leadership of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola had in 2011 embarked on various programmes geared towards boosting agricultural output in the state. One of such was the land validation exercise carried out in four out of the nine farm settlements in the state, to determine the status of the performance of the settlers. While doing that, the governor did promise that the exercise shall be extended to all other farm settlements in the state. Ogbeni has made good his promise in the past years by fully validating the other farm settlements and funding them all into full capacity, as well as restoring them to their pride of place of old. Gladly, we have fond reference to giant strides in this important sub-sector with the mention of our state-owned farm settlements as focal point. This outgoing year 2014 has brought in the best of bumper harvest for the state and launched it ahead to a place of prominence and greater economic prosperity among the comity of states in the federation. Greater laudable achievements are still expected as the years of this administration’s second tenure in office unfold. The government on its part promises to keep faith with its avowed pledge to make life more abundant for the people and transform their living standards through sustainable agricultural programmes and projects;

•Elementary school pupils taking their meals in Osun.

especially, by moving the state upward from its hitherto stagnant position below the poverty line to a higher pedestal of higher per capita income. In order to facilitate the transportation of agricultural produce from the farms, as much as a total of 45-kilometre access and 25 kilometre feeder roads were constructed during the year 2011 to link farm settlements with the urban centres. According to government sources, the list of affected farm settlements includes Mokore, Esa Oke / Esa Odo, Iwo / Patara and Orile Owu and Ago Owu. The willingness and readiness of the Government of the State manifested in its intensified efforts at providing access / feeder roads in the rural areas in the subsequent fiscal years – 2012 and 2013 in particular. In the current year (2014) alone, lots more of these roads have been commissioned. Today, there are a high number of these local roads under construction; and the government at the state and local tiers are collaborating to work assiduously to bring these projects to safe and logical conclusion while initiating fresh ones all of which shall be brought to safe stages of completion and use within the remaining time for the completion of the administration’s second tenure in office. This fact asserts that many more roads in this category are still being initiated day-in; day-out. On its own part, the State of Osun House of Assembly is intensifying its oversight function to ensure that all projects of road construction adhere strictly to, and abide by safety and quality standards. This year however, expressed high expectations among the populace that these roads shall be ready for use and handed over to the people, for whom they were constructed have not been dashed. Due to the insatiable nature of man’s wants, needs and desires, hopes are still very high now that the year is almost gone. However, the hope is high that by the time of their completion and delivery, the coast would have been clear for a rapid transformation of the agriculture sub-sector; and that of the fortunes and economic prosperity of the people of the State of Osun. In the area of empowerment of farmers, a total of 3,776 farmers’ cooperative societies were registered in the 2011 fiscal year; out of which 66 benefitted from N153 Million loan disbursed by the Government of the State under its quick impact intervention programme. The year 2012, it is placed on record, also witnessed bumper production of broilers through the Osun Poultry Grower

Production Scheme; a tripartite arrangement involving the Government of the State, an agric concern (Scheme Manager) and the Poultry Association of Nigeria. It was also to the awareness and the gladdening delight of all stakeholders in the field of agriculture in the state in the years under review that more than N40 Million out of the N1 Billion obtained under the Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme, as early as the first quarter of the year 2012. A large number of poultry farmers in the state who had benefitted from the scheme in year 2011 were also opportune through the scheme to expand the scope of their poultry farms under a well-guaranteed market for their broiler production in year 2012. The effort had since witnessed an upward swing. Equally worth of note is the fact that a total sum of N621 Million was released during the year 2011 for the procurement of modern agro-inputs which included 3,580 metric tonnes of fertilizer; 14.68 metric tonnes of improved maize and rice seeds and various quantities of agro- chemicals. Apart from the 42.50 per cent subsidy provided by the Government of the State, farmers were also granted loans pending harvesting and marketing of their produce to be able to buy fertilizer. The Government of the State did promise and did actually redeem the promise in the concluded fiscal years (2010 - 2013) to give necessary encouragement to farmers by making fertilizer available to them at subsidized rates. In the unfolding of the various agricultural policies for the year 2013 and the previous years; the governor reasoned that the State of Osun is an agrarian economy with arable fertile soil, which can only be moved forward positively by revolutionizing its Agriculture. As all indications around us have shown, the focus and pursuits of the administration since inception have drifted toward this inclination. The foregoing came in affirmation of our earlier claims that the Government Unusual of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola prioritizes agriculture and sees it as a vital means to attain its lofty ends in government. It further confirms the claims laid to it above that the helmsman of the State of Osun accords great emphasis to the Six-Point Integral Action Plan of his administration, on the basis of which he made his pact with the people of the state during his election campaign prior to the 2007 Continued on page 13

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Five Years On In The Saddle

•Newly-built Ejigbo High School, Ejigbo, State of Osun. Continued from page 12

Gubernatorial Elections. True to his promises and pact, the administration of Ogbeni has been proving well its worth and mettle by prompt, consummate and accurate delivery of his (Ogbeni’s) election promises. Staunch evidence to this is found in the assessment of his administration for the year 2012 and earlier years; in terms of priority attention given to the sector and its various sub-sectors, huge yearly budgetary provisions, provision of infrastructural amenities aimed mainly to open up rural areas to urban areas, employment generation and youth empowerment, among others. Excerpts of his speech regarding this area run as follow: “In the out-gone year, under the Farm Settlement Scheme, we provided land for potential farmers in the state. The programme covers nine different locations across the state with a total of 3,456 settlers cultivating 17,280 hectares of farmland. Access/feeder roads of the settlements received priority attention with the construction of a total of 77.2 kilometre roads in settlements, namely Mokore, Ago-Owu, Ogedengbe/Ago-Owu, EsaOke/Esa-Odo, Iwo and the link road between Ago-Owu and Ijebu-Igbo. As part of the present administration’s efforts to banish hunger, 150 hectares of virgin farmland were cleared and allocated to 30 prospective farmers in Akinleye, Iwo farm settlements and Mokore cooperative farm at Ago-Owu under the aegis of Osun Rural Enterprise and Agricultural Scheme (OREAP). In our efforts to boost food production, O’REAP Youth Academy was established. Already, 48 youth have been selected for training in Germany under an exchange programme with the State of Saxony Anhalt. The programme, as conceptualized, aims at producing modern-day farmers equipped with modern technologies in agriculture thereby ensuring food supply at sustainable basis. The programme recruited 610 O-YES cadets at 20 per LGA and 10 from Ife East Area Office to kick-start the programme in the State of Osun. The participants of the programme are currently receiving intensive training in nine training centres.” OSUN DEFENDER Magazine is at this juncture committed to unveil the actualization of the promise of the administration just bared above, concerning the training of the selected youths

of the state’s origin in the German State of Saxony. Today, it is highly commendable that the Aregbesola administration has sent the vibrant youths, numbering upward to about fifty, selected from the length and breadth of the nine Federal Constituencies which the state comprises. The youths, who had been selected in just, fair and objective manners, have successfully received a three-month intensive training in virtually all areas of agricultural endeavour, which include animal husbandry, soil science, crop propagation, agro processing, food preservation, feeds milling and others; and are fully back to impact in positive terms the economy of their indigenous state. This effort came courtesy of the State Government’s intervention innovation called Quick Intervention Programme (QUIP). Since the arrival in batches of trainees in Germany of the state’s contingents of trainees in various fields of agriculture, the expectation that their acquired expertise being put to practice shall be brought to bear on the state’s agricultural productivity and transformation from crude practice to modern farming approaches has not been cut short. The subsequent training programmes organized and conducted by these competent Germany-trained personnel has further reduced the spate of unemployment in the state; especially among the vibrant youths. Finally on this sub-sector, it is noticed that since most agricultureoriented programmes are perennial or long-term in nature, they take long time to mature. It is therefore hoped that the Aregbesola administration shall continue assiduously in its pursuance of its alreadyinitiated programmes and projects; nourishing them to a logical conclusion thereby. We have placed on record in earlier editions how emphasis has been placed on the promotion of cultivation of tuber crops like cocoyam and potatoes. This effort has paid off well in the past years, especially during year 2014; as it has attracted further interest and committance of resources from outside. During that year, the Federal Government through its Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources sited an institute for researches and cultivation of tuber crops in Iresi, a town in Boluwaduro Local Government Council Area of the state. Similarly, we sometime ago witnessed the visit by a South American Agricultural Institute

contingent which came around to negotiate terms with the government of the state on the introduction of a special species of sweet potatoes, orange colour in flesh and fortified with Vitamin A. These are just examples of recent trends in the area of agriculture in the State of Osun. It was revealed that during the same period under review, 97 hectares of land was put into cultivation by the participants of the programme and that efforts were in top gear to form the participants of the academy into registered cooperative groups with assistance from the government as part of the exit strategy for the OYES cadets in January/ February 2013. This goal has by now been realized, as the 2010/2012 Batch of OYES cadets have already been graduated into the labour market. Also, already, another batch of OYES cadets, i.e. the 2013/2015 Batch, comprising 20,000 vibrant unemployed youth has been recruited; a substantial part of which is to receive functional training in areas of farming, animal husbandry and dairy farming and entire agriculture practice. In addition, Mr. Governor’s assessment of his government’s performance in the previous year in the field of agriculture was revealing of the following facts: “In order to inculcate the virtue of dignity of labour in our young school leavers as well as make a career in agriculture in the face of non-existing jobs in our society, 47 secondary schools across the State of Osun were assisted with inputs of piglets and cockerels under Agriculture-In-SchoolsProgramme. A total of 100 hectares of farmland was cultivated by these schools for the production of cassava, maize, red cocoyam and vegetables. It is expected that proceeds from the programme, especially, red cocoyam, will be extended to the Elementary Schools’ Feeding Programme. Also,

Continued on page 14

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Five Years On In The Saddle Continued from page 13

this current year and during the entire life-span of the Aregbesola administration: “In the area of seedlings production, 100,000 and 40,000 seedlings and oil-palm respectively were raised and sold at subsidized rates. In addition, 1,796 plantain suckers, 24,473 cashew seedlings, 1,531 potted root stocks for budding were raised in 2012. Moreover, 221,930 hybrid cocoa pods from hand pollination were produced. Under the capacity building of modern-day cocoa production, 22 farmers’ field schools were established while 20,000 sachets of fungicide, 13 solo pumps and 136 litres of avestrin were distributed to farmers. In the area of livestock development, 115,515 animals comprising cattle, sheep, goats and pigs passed through the nine control posts in the state.” The following other feats and exploits were recorded during the years under review: Under animal diseases control we were made to realize that 135 surgical cases were attended to while 8,268 samples from various animal species were sent for confirmatory test. Also 50,128 animals of various animal species were investigated and diagnosed for various diseases, 84,844 fowls were inoculated against various poultry diseases. It also came to the fore that under veterinary epidemiology, 5,581 dogs and 2,168 cats were vaccinated against rabies infection while 25,000 sheep and goats were similarly vaccinated against kata. Active surveillance of birds and sensitization were also stepped up in the year to check-mate trans-boundary emerging diseases from the neighbouring states, especially, Avian Influenza (AI). The sub-sector also received a boost during the outgone year with the implementation of the Osun Broilers Outgrowers Production Scheme (O’BOPS) under OREAP. A total of 1,186,860 Day-Old Chicks Broilers were produced and supplied to 224 participating farms as at 22nd

•aregbesola

November, 2012. The assessment of the scheme, according to Governor Aregbesola revealed that over 783 jobs were generated with an estimated 7,830 farmlands empowered indirectly. The governor accounted that under the subsector, three (3) fish farm estates were established at Esa-Odo, Iwo and Okuku, each on a 50 hectare of land to boost protein intake of the citizens of the state as well as generating employment to reduce youth restiveness in the state. As far as the year 2014 is concerned, the governor promised that over 3,000 ponds would be dug and allocated to over 3,000 interested fish farmers when the project was fully operational. This feat has been wonderfully achieved. An impressive revelation that came to the fore is that in government’s efforts to boost fish production, the government is in continuous collaboration with a private scheme manager in Okuku Osun Fish Outgrowers production Scheme (O-POPS) on fish production. The scheme was defined as one that is aimed at promoting fish production as well as providing training ground for youths in Osun. Under the scheme, 120,000 catfish fingerlings stocked in July 2012 were said to have reached 1 kilogramme each by the middle of December 2012 for cropping and sale. It was further revealed that 24 OYES cadets were currently undergoing training in fish production at the centre in Okuku. These cadets are part of the pioneering set; the graduated first batch beneficiaries, and are already self-employed through assistance from the government. It was also placed on record how government engaged in the provision of agricultural inputs in the outgone year, to the extent that the state distributed 2,160 metric tones of fertilizer to farmers. Other inputs made available to farmers included 10,242 metric tones of maize seeds,1,283 kilogrammes of solid and 2,902 litres of liquid herbicides/insecticides, 89 tubes of insecticides, 24.16 kilogrammes of fungicides at subsidized

•laoye-tomori

rates. Regarding the implementation of the Third National Fadama Development Project (FADAMA III), government was said to have released a sum of N196.3 million as counterpart funding, The project, it was revealed, had assisted rural communities in the provision of infrastructural facilities such as access roads, cold rooms as well as productive assets like tools, agro-processing equipment, livestock and fisheries facilities. The Government of the State of Osun then renewed pts avowed support to the programme to ensure its success. In his final assessment of the performance of the sector for the year 2012, the governor had the following remarks to make: “There is no doubt that agricultural sector in 2012 witnessed tremendous improvement visà-vis the huge investment by the Government. In the current year, Government will definitely improve on this as new programmes/projects have been factored into 2013 budget to further sustain the current achievements, if not surpassed. Those programmes/projects include: Arable Crop Nursery Development; Feeding African Project; Young Farmers Club; Multiplication of Red Cocoyam, and Best Agricultural Practices.” To facilitate and enhance the gesture mentioned earlier on in the course of this discourse, an independent committee of experts was constituted in 2011 with a view to advising government on the distribution of fertilizer to genuine practising farmers as part of government’s resource optimization strategies. In validation of this, the government confirmed that the state currently has reserve of fertilizer and agro-inputs for active genuine farmers. Given the importance attached to agriculture and rural development sub-sector, a total sum of N5.6 Billion was provided in the 2012 Budget to fund the various government programmes in agriculture and rural development in the just-concluded fiscal year (2012). The Continued on page 15

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osun Defender Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Five Years On In The Saddle Continued from page 14

provision set aside and implemented for the year 2013 was higher than this. Surely, regarding feats in the area of Agriculture, Food Security and Rural Development, this outgoing year 2014 has been one of greater consolidation of achievements and lofty grounds already gained. In the light of this, the Government of the State of Osun is expected to devote greater budgetary provisions to this all-important sub-sector in the years ahead. Also, since the government had not, in the past years, been out with its entire exhaustive list of intended programmes, policies and schemes in this area, more of new innovative programmes are expected to be rolled out in 2015 and subsequent years.

N the area of Social Integration and Intergovernmental affairs, lots have been achieved in the State of Osun in the space of the last forty-eight months plus. Prior to the advent of the incumbent administration, nothing remarkable was known of the state in terms of its relations with other states in the South-West geopolitical zone and the Nigerian state as a whole. Upon the assumption of office of the Aregbesola administration in November 2010, the administration spared no time to rebrand the state, which had hitherto been known as the State of the Living Spring into the State of the Virtuous, that is, Ipinle Omoluabi where the age-long virtues of hardwork, industry, enterprise, discipline, honesty and integrity are being upheld through a process of cultural reorientation. These virtues, which are the sterling qualities for which our forebears were renowned, had become gradually eroded in our culture, in our body politics and in practically all spheres of life. The virtues are now being revived through the concerted efforts of the administration of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola. Apart from change of sobriquet, there are other components of the rebranding efforts of the incumbent administration in the State of Osun. These include the introduction of an anthem tor the state, a brand-new logo/crest; a brand-new flag; and brand-new colours. The New Osun Anthems is here cited preferably in the Yoruba indigenous language: I

1. Ise Wa Fun ’le Wa Fun Ile Ibi Wa

K’a gbe E Ga; K’a Gbe E Ga K’a Gbe E Ga F’aye Ri 2. Igbagbo Wa Ni Pe B’a Ti B’eru L’a B’omo K’a a S’ise; K’a S’ise K’a S’ise K’a Jo La 3. Isokan A T’ominira Ni K’e Je Ka a Ma a Le”pa Tesiwaju; F’opo Ire At’ohun T’o Dara. 4. Omo Oodua Dide Bo Si Ipo Eto Re Iwo Ni; Imole Gbogbo Adulawo

Last in the aspect of rebranding is the name of the state. Hitherto, the State had been referred to simply as Osun State of Nigeria. A new bill to the effect of modifying the name of the state was forwarded by the governor to the State House of Assembly for passing into law. Thus, the Bill for the change in name of the state from Osun State into the State of Osun was passed into law about mid2012. From that date, Osun State metamorphosed into “The State of Osun, Federal Republic of Nigeria”. Apart from these, the State of Osun Building in Abuja had been almost abandoned before the administration of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola came on board in November 2010. The complex, named after late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, has been fully completed. Also in the area of integration, Ogbeni Aregbesola has since his inauguration been committed to the issue of socio-cultural and economic integration within the South-West geopolitical zone of Nigeria. The issue of regional integration is one of the basis on which critics and detractors have been at daggers drawn against Governor Aregbesola. Our view on OSUN DEFENDER Magazine crew is that those who go against regional integration of the SouthWest are enemies of progress. Better put, they comprise those who had misused their chances in public positions and offices; and who detest the sight of others outstripping them in performances and achievements. In the line of regional integration therefore, Governor Aregbesola has been the vanguard. We wish him astonishing success in his

•A cross section of the state public school pupls displaying their Opon-Imo.

bid to attain socio-economic emancipation for our region through regional integration. Beyond the borders of the state and those of the South-West Region, the governor is in collaboration with his counterparts in the All Progressives Congress (APC) to identify and condole with people of other states of the federation, especially those befallen with griefs (II)and disasters. This gesture was demonstrated when Ogbeni Aregbesola joined others to visit the crisis-ravaged Borno State with material and monetary donations. This gesture exemplifies the doctrine of the Scriptures of being one’s brother’s keeper. The gesture of the administration of Ogbeni in the evacuation of the indigenes of the state from the war-torn Cote d’Ivoire gladdened the heart. The gesture did not stop with mere evacuation, the administration also went further to settle the evacuated people and provided them with abundant supply of food items and other essential materials. This shows that the Government Unusual is extraordinarily caring. Similarly, following the post-election crisis that trailed the 2011 Presidential Polls in certain parts of the country,, the Government of the State of Osun under the control of Ogbeni facilitated the evacuation of the state’s indigenes resident in Bauchi State for the purpose of safety. The unfortunate killing of two members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) who were indigenes of the state drew great concern, grief and sympathy from government. The way the government identified with the bereaved families and the Gbongan community on account of the loss demonstrated an administration with great human feelings. On the whole, the administration of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has been a unifying force in the present socio-economic and political terrain of the country. Judging by the number of markets currently under construction in the state capital, the coast is radically becoming clear for restoring the state and its capital in particular to its old lost status as the commercial hub of the South-West. It is hoped that by the time the administration is through with all its laudable projects, the State of Osun shall have been completely transformed into a land of unity,

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tuesday, february 2, 2016

ne still wonders

why people who claim to love their country still derive pleasure to plunder it with impunity. Most of those arrowheads of these heinous acts feel proud to have widely-travelled; especially to the western world, where things are done decently, and crave for illicit wealth is relegated to the background. Most of the people concerned go ahead to condemn the activities of the colonial masters; who they claim contributed to our under-development. At the moment, it is very glaring that the relics of colonial masters’ ingenuity are still visible all over the country. Rather than build on the legacy of enduring structures left behind by them, they at best develop best legacies on papers without recourse to concrete actualization of their contents. Those who are direct beneficiaries of Nigeria’s misfortune over the years often try to extricate themselves through diversionary tactics that will draw people’s attention away from their dangerous retrogressive activities. That is why today, a gloomy picture is painted of current efforts at bringing sanity to our daily national life. Every step recently taken by government to create conducive environment for the people of this country is punctuated and dubbed, so as not to see any substance in their efforts. Most of these disgruntled individuals resort to mass media blackmail to course ill-feelings towards those who genuinely desire a change from former ways of doing things that never yielded concrete benefits for people to tap from. Political jobbers turned robbers are being fished out by and by, but members of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) say it is witch-hunting. Ask any of them what penalty they consider appropriate for someone who stole ten tubers of yam, they will not think twice before they recommend death by hanging; whereas summoning and detaining someone who stole billions of naira is condemned because to them, it is too humiliating. Some wicked individuals are already calling for President’s Muhammadu Buhari’s head over an attempt to bring those suspected to have impoverished this country and its people to justice. Their principal has unequivocally told us that stealing is no corruption, and none of his boot-licking sycophants considered it appropriate to fault the statement. Indeed, he was hailed to the high heavens, when he made that statement at the tail end of his tenure. The recently-released budget estimates clearly explained the policy direction of the new administration. When some aspects of the estimates were considered

By ade olugbotemi

We Have Been Gullible

•olisa metuh: PDP Publicity Secretary

i n c o n s i s t e n t w i t h p e o p l e ’s expectations, the document was withdrawn after a letter to that effect was read on the floor of the hallowed chamber. This was misinterpreted to mean incompetence by neversay-die critics of President Buhari. The fact that similar mistakes in the immediate-past were often discountenanced because it was believed that codified budget estimates were for mere formality. To them it doesn’t matter if the President used inordinate prerogative to order money not appropriated out of the vault of the Central Bank of Nigeria in foreign currencies. Now that someone is doing the normal thing as practiced in developed economies, they are calling for the head and resignation of Mr President, when in actual fact, he meant well, and this he does in the interest of the masses.

A line of demarcation needs be drawn here for thorough analysis. In Nigeria’s political evolution, this is the first time an opposition will win an election. From Northern People’s Congress (NPC) that formed the first post-independence government, to the National Party of Nigeria (NPN), to the short-lived National Republican Convention, and the recently-defeated Peoples Democratic Party (PDP); all these parties were all considered to tilt to the left. Whatever anybody wants to say, the current government in power is of the progressive’s extraction. We must put the mass exodus of decampees from the PDP into the APC. This has been the stock in trade for political jobbers over the years; it is far from being strange. The core progressives know themselves; they have no predilection for cross-carpeting.

They have consistently remained in the rightist realm; and such are easily identified in the mixed multitude that presently make up the ruling All Progressives Congress. ome doubting Thomases have S expressed reservation in the ability of the ruling APC to redeem the country from economic doldrums; forgetting that if the current economic experiment fails, it may portend serious danger to the continued existence for us as Nigerians. We must regard ourselves as the beloved of God by not remaining under PDP’s political tutelage. Nobody has so far been able to level impropriety allegation against President Buhari so far. He remains resolute to take Nigeria out of the woes that PDP plunged it. It is only moral bankruptcy that will still force words out of the mouths of critics of PDP’s extraction. They have been proved to be clogs in the wheel of progress of this country; having squandered what would have gone into developmental activities in the past. The best thing for them is to hold their peace and bury their heads in shame forever. I am not a prophet of doom; far from it. One thing that is sure however is that if we fail to support Buhari in his desire to right the wrongs of the past by bringing life back into the economic quagmire, we better begin to look forward to where we can be harboured as refugees in camps outside the shores of Nigeria. Although some plunderers have subtly decamped into the ruling APC, the core leaders of the ruling party have vowed not to allow for any sacred cows. I believe that they will not allow any economic saboteurs to go scot-free. Nigerians need to be convinced that Mr President is indeed for nobody, and for everybody. Different meanings have been given to this statement, which first came to limelight during the presentation of President Buhari’s maiden speech. More stalwarts of the ruling party, whose hands are soiled with oil of corruption, must be properly investigated and their loots must be fully recovered and restored back into our treasury. fear for Nigeria, if we have no I confidence in Buhari and his team members to bring back the country’s lost glory. This is the only country we can call our own. If we have access to residency permit in any countries of the western world, where things are seen to be normal, we must think of how normalcy can come to our own country too. Here is where we have our extended family members; and their welfare must be of great concern to us too. I believe that the current war against corruption will be fought to a logical conclusion, if we support the captains of our ship that we voted into power. Where they are missing

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.