Osun Defender - June 19th 2014, Edition by OsunDefender

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www.osundefender.org THURSDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 Agba o si ni ilu, ilu baje, bale le ku, ile ku da horo. Imado iba se bi elede a balu je, eru iba joba eeyan o bakukan.” These are two Yoruba proverbs that capture my feeling about the Ekiti forthcoming election. If there are no elders in Ekiti to speak the truth, our

PEOPLE FIRST

Front Page Comment EKITI MUST NOT DIE ON THE DAY OF DESTINY state will become a deserted state without a future. If we allow brutes to take over our government, then we cannot expect progress.

If a slave becomes king,

no free born person would remain. The Yoruba people are a culturally wise people and this is why we

have gotten this far in our life’s journey. But at the right time in this journey, we have had to fall back on the wisdom of our ancestors as encapsulated in our proverbs and witticisms. Continue on pg5

VOL. 9. NO.073

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

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IGE

Aregbesola’s Campaign Train Hits Iwo With A Bang •As Governor Promises To Dualise Iwo-Osogbo Road •Urges People To Stand By Their Votes - See Story On Page 2

•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (arrowed), acknowledging cheers from the mammoth crowd during his re-election mega rally at Iwo Federal Constituency, Iwo, State of Osun, on Tuesday.

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OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 19, 2014

Aregbesola’s Campaign Train Hits Iwo With A Bang •As Governor Promises To Dualise Iwo-Osogbo Road •Urges People To Stand By Their Votes By KEHINDEAYANTUNJI

T was carnival-like in Iwo on Tuesday as the campaign train of Governor Rauf Aregbesola reached Iwo, Ayedire, Ola-Oluwa Federal Constituency in continuation of the governorship campaign in the nine federal constituencies of the state. Iwo community experienced who were extraordinarily traffic gridlock, as supporters excited with the governor’s of the All Progressives Congress appearance. Aregbesola, while addressing (APC) turned the rally into a the crowd, expressed gratitude carnival. There were celebrations to the people of Iwo, Ayedire across all major roads in the and Ola- Oluwa Local town with local musicians on Government Council areas for standing by his administration hand to entertain the people. As early as 9 a.m, the people since its inception and their of the federal constituency had consistency in the progressive been moving around Iwo town fold. The governor said the with branded T-Shirts specially designed for the campaign, presence of thousands of holding various banners bearing people at the campaign rally Aregbesola’s second term was a clear testimony that Iwo land still remains the slogans. Iwo City Stadium, the venue progressive stronghold and will of the programme, was filled to forever remain APC stronghold. According to him: “The capacity; it could only accommodate less than 20 per difference between our party cent of the crowd, who had and those on the other side is stormed the rally. Outside the what we are seeing here today. fence, the crowd was also The people are always with us because of our people-oriented difficult to measure. Around 12 noon, security programmes and policies. I am agents managing the events were so excited that the people of left with no choice than Iwo; youths, old women and restricting entrance into the non-partisan people trooped stadium with a view to out to welcome us. “This turnout has further preventing likely stampede, as the venue was already filled assured us of the people’s support, and has further beyond capacity. It took Governor encouraged us to dedicate our Aregbesola’s convoy several lives to the service of the hours before it could get to the people. We are not in any way venue of the programme, as their mates, as there is a clear supporters of APC,who had difference, intellectually, been anxiously waiting to physically and even in welcome the governor, hindered appearance. We are superior to them and by the grace of God, free vehicular movement. Governor Aregbesola, after this coming election will further paying homage to the Oluwo humble them.” Aregbesola said his Palace, arrived the venue at exactly 3.20 p.m in his white administration will dualise Iwotraditional attire. The long Osogbo road and complete waiting thousands of APC some other roads in the federal supporters gave the governor a constituency in the next dispensation and promised to rousing reception. Those holding posters raised expand and rehabilitate the them, while the shout of water project that will supply “Symbol” “Oranmiyan” rented the federal constituency with the air, the moderators doubled adequate water. The governor reminded the their efforts before they succeeded in calming the crowd, people of Iwo that when Iwo

community and its environs was under armed robbery siege, his administration provided Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) to assist the police and promised to do more in protecting the lives and property of the people in the area. He added that all the ongoing projects in Iwo, including the modern abattoir, will be completed and urged the people

to mobilise support for the APC and protect their votes, saying the expectation of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party( PDP) is to rig the election. Aregbesola said: “ Election day is a critical day. A day we have to determine how we are going to be governed and living our lives. It is a day that will determine the kind of life we are

•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, signing the condolence book during the Aregbesola condolence visit to the family of one of the All Progressive Congress (APC) leaders in the State of Osun, the late Alhaji L.A.B. Katayeyanjue in Iwo. With him are his deputy Otunba (Mrs) Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori (left) and first civilian governor in the State of Osun, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, last Tuesday. Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI.

More Bashing For Omisore Over Accusation On APCs By KAZEEM MOHAMMED

HE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the August 9 election in the State of Osun, Senator Iyioola Omisore has continued to receive bashings over his accusations that the Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) acquired by the state government were meant to rig the election. The State Commissioner for said if Omisore is afraid of his Information and Strategy, Mr past, he should either have a Sunday Akere and members of rethink or be caught by the the state House of Assembly arms of the law, as the APCs

Iwo Agog As Aregbesola, APC Leaders Storm Town By SHINA ABUBAKAR

HE Iwo City Stadium, venue of Iwo Federal Constituency All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship re-election campaign mega rally, was filled to capacity as Governor Rauf Aregbesola stormed the town seeking their mandate again on Tuesday. Residents and and entertain the gathering supporters of the APC from on the various programmes across the state thronged and policy of the the ancient town of Iwo as Aregbesola administration. Also, several hip hop early as 10am in solidarity for the governor ’s re- musicians both from within and outside the state election bid. The routes leading to the performed at the gathering venue were jam-packed with giving it a carnival-like vehicular movement, as outlook. Many elderly persons, vehicles that could not find their ways to the venue who could not stand the parked almost kilometres rigours of the campaign away from the venue and rally, stayed back at their walked to catch a glimpse of various streets under what was going on at the canopies placed at strategic points in the ancient town, venue. Several groups in their monitoring the programme variously inscribed polo on their television sets. Meanwhile, various shirts in different colours, groups were seen at added colour to the rally. Prior to the arrival of the Ogbaagbaa in Ola-Oluwa governor, Nollywood stars Local Government Council staged a drama to educate Area, home town of another

going to live in the next 20 years. Therefore, election is a serious business. “When they rigged out Chief Bisi Akande, it took us several years before we could chase them away from power, and now that they are threatening rigging, we must be serious than ever, since we have registered and promised not to sell our cards. We must stand at the polling stations and ensure that our votes count. “ Any polling unit where

INEC failed to produce form EC8A, which is the original score sheet form, election must not take place. We must not allow them to record it on any other paper. Vote, wait for counting and result announcement and ensure that the original election figure is recorded on the form,” the governor advised. Governor Aregbesola also urged the people not to exercise any fear in exercising their rights by voting for APC in the coming election, while assuring them that his administration would do everything humanly possible to protect the lives and property of the people.

governorship candidate, Alhaji Fatia Akinbade displaying Aregbesola’s posters and brooms shouting “Its Aregbesola or nothing”. The entire Iwo stood still for the governor, when his entourage arrived the town through Odo-Ori, as market women, traders, school children, as well as artisans, trooped to the road, waving brooms at the governor in solidarity. The streets were filled with people up to the palace of the Oluwo of Iwo to pay homage to the traditional council before heading towards the township stadium escorted by Oramiyan motorcyclists and other commercial motorcyclists that joined the train. As the governor entered the stadium, the place became rowdy, as everyone rushed towards his vehicle to appreciate and welcome

him into the venue. Security operatives stationed on the roads leading to the venue had a difficult time ensuring that no one broke the law, as well as ensured that traffic laws were enforced. Meanwhile, food and drinks vendors had a swell time, as they enjoyed patronage from the people at the rally. Speaking at the rally, the deputy governor of the state, Otunba (Mrs) Grace Titilayo Laoye-Tomori, urged women to join the door-to-door campaign and sensitize women on the need to troop out en mass and vote for Aregbesola on August 9. She also urged the people of the federal constituency not to be cajoled by the deceit of the opposition that APC is anti-people, saying everyone had seen what the PDP has during their reign and how APC is turning the state around positively.

were meant for criminals. They spoke separately at the All Progressive Congress (APC) campaign of Iwo/ Ayedire/Ola-Oluwa Federal Constituency, held at Iwo City Stadium on Tuesday. Akere pitied those he described as criminals, who are using or thinking of using politics as a cover-up to truncate the peace of the state, saying, the present administration would not allow any criminal to disrupt the peace of the state in the name of election. “Everybody knows that the present government does not take issue of security with levity because it is embedded in our constitution that security must be provided by the government. “When this government came, there wasn’t any Armoured Personnel Carrier in Osun. Subsequently, we acquired five, of which nobody raised any issue and the governor promised that more APCs would be acquired. “If anybody is not scare of the APCs that we have just acquired, I pity them, because we will not allow criminals in Osun again, either before, during and after the election. “Before this government came, security of lives and property were not guaranteed, but today, people can sleep with their two eyes closed,” he stressed. In his own submission, the lawmaker representing OlaOluwa State Constituency, Honourable Ajibola Akinloye, stated that the APCs were

meant for criminals, who are disguising under whatever form. He added that the claims by Omisore were only meant to whip-up sentiment and curry favour of the people, having lost value and popularity. According to him, what is actually scaring the PDP is the popularity that Aregbesola is gaining everyday, saying that they would be scared the more when votes are massively cast for Aregbesola on the election day. “What Aregbesola has achieved in terms of development has given him an edge ahead of others and that popularity is what is actually scaring the PDP and its candidate, but they have not seen anything. “The APCs are meant for criminals, election riggers and if they think of carrying out any crime, they should please be scared, because they would be dealt with,” he said. Also, the lawmaker representing Ayedire State Constituency, Honourable Leke Ogunsola, stated that the fear being entertained by the PDP and its candidate has again spoken volume of his antecedents. He said that inspite of the accusation, the present government would not be distracted in its effort to sustain the peace being enjoyed in the state. The lawmaker was optimistic that Aregbesola would emerge with a very wide marging at the election.

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OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 19, 2014

Osun 2014: August 9 Electoral Victory Gains Momentum By FRANCIS EZEDIUNO

S the August 9, 2014 date for the State of Osun gubernatorial election draws nearer, the overwhelming support for the incumbent All Progressives Congress (APC) administration of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola is continuing to top the chart in terms of supporters and followership amongst the teeming population of the people of the state. This could be traceable to the team to ensure that Ogbeni massive mega rallies embarked Rauf Aregbesola won a second upon by the APC campaign term of four years as governor.

The mega rally train moved to Iwo Federal Constituency comprising Iwo, Ayedire and Ola-Oluwa Local Government Council Areas and the venue, Iwo City Stadium, was filled to more than capacity, as the people waited anxiously for the campaign train of the governor to arrive, as a sign that the people were rooting for the governor.

•Newly-married couple, Mr and Mrs Kehinde Ayantunji, cutting their wedding cake during their Nikkah ceremony in Osogbo last Saturday. Ayantunji who is the ViceChairman of Osun NUJ Council is an editorial staff of OSUN DEFENDER. Photo: ABRAHAM JESUDOYIN

A 400-Level English Language student of Bowen University, Iwo, Miss Peace Francis, maintained she had been monitoring the re-election rally of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and her conclusion was that the governor had set the pace in what an election campaign should be like. She stated that a good election campaign should be free from rancour and should focus more on what the candidate would do for the people, if elected. “Mr. Governor has successfully used his campaign to educate the electorate on how to go about on the day of election and also on how to defend their votes. “As for his re-election, I sincerely don’t think the governor has any problem because he is delivering on his promises. “In as much as he had delivered on his earlier promises as far back as 2007, which he implemented as soon as he was sworn-in as governor in 2010, I think he is worth a second term. When you see a working governor, you would know and Aregbesola is a working governor.” One of the Peoples Democracy Party (PDP) decampees in Iwo Local Government Council Area, Alhaja Sekinat Sekoni, stated that there was no disproving the fact that Aregbesola would come back to Abere in 2014 because he had worked and he is set to work in the next four years. She noted that one of the reasons why she defected from the PDP was because the party lacks a clear-cut plan on how to go about governance. She stated that all that the party stands out for is violence and that so far, there was no meeting the party held that didn’t end in violence.

She praised the governor for implementing the various programmes like O’Meal, O’School, OYES, O’REAP, O’HUB, O’Clean, O’Tour, Opon-Imo, care of the aged, that have succeeded in touching the lives of the people. Likewise, Mr. Adisa Azeez stated that the governor to him has no opposition because all that the other party contenders are doing was just marking time primarily because they have nothing to offer. He noted that despite the fact that the other parties had kicked off their own campaign and also embarked on negative and damaging campaigns, it would have no effect on the electorate because the people are more enlightened daily and they know who to vote for on the D-Day. “Since 2010, I can proudly boast that Osun has not been the same. There is no area of life that his administration has not touched and even plan to touch more. Iwo, Ayedire and OlaOluwa that people consider as backward council areas had received a facelift and there are government projects in virtually every ward and I foresee many more of these projects when we vote him in 2014.” In her own view, Madam Arike Mohammed said that the mega rally is steadily growing and the turn-out has depicted that Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola has the support of the electorate. She encouraged the governor to ignore all the antics of the opposition and concentrate on his government because it is sure he would be coming back as governor for a second term. “It takes the grace of God, hard work, the love and support of the electorate to get a good vote and Rauf

Iwo Rally: Adeleke, Babalola Woo Electorate For Aregbesola’s Re-election By ISMAEEL UTHMAN

HE Asiwaju of Edeland, Senator Isiaka Adetunji Service Commission, Elder Adeleke, has charged the electorate in the State of Peter Babalola, urged the Osun to turn their love for Governor Rauf Aregbesola people of the state to totally crush PDP in the forthcoming into vote. election. Speaking at the rally, the Adeleke said it would be a He said, though, the PDP is Chairman, Local Government joyful experience and an going to extinction in the state, unregretable decision to vote for Aregbesola for second term on August 9, 2014 governorship election. OING by the massive crowd of supporters that Adeleke, who spoke at the received Governor Rauf Aregbesola to the Iwo Iwo Federal Constituency Federal Constituency on Tuesday, no governorship mega rally of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate would beat Aregbesola. on Tuesday in Iwo, The Executive Secretary, massive supports from the commended the people of the Aregbesola’s state for their love, loyalty and Ayedire Local Government people, second term is certain. Council Area of the state, support for Aregbesola. He commended the According to Adeleke, there Mr Gbenga Ogunkanmi, is no alternative to Aregbesola stated this while speaking at people of the constituency among all the governorship the mega rally held at Iwo for trooping out to welcome candidates in the state, adding City Stadium. Aregbesola at the rally, that the governor remains a Ogunkanmi said urging them to also vote candidate to beat in the Aregbesola is a candidate to massively for Aregbesola forthcoming election. beat in the August 9, 2014 on the election. He then urged the people of “I commend the people of election, the state to troop out en-mass governorship on August 9 gubernatorial adding that with the Ayedire, Iwo and Olaoluwa election and cast their vote for Aregbesola, who he portrayed as the only candidate that means well for the people of The source of the Higher National Diploma (HND) the state. certificate being paraded by the illiterate state The former leader of the Peoples Democratic Party chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) (PDP), maintained that in the State of Osun, Alhaji Gani Olaoluwa, would Aregbesola’s achievements soon be probed. would secure another four more Senator Isiaka Adeleke, last Tuesday. years for him, saying that the Apparently worried, people are strongly behind the a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress Adeleke said the school governor. Adeleke also urged the (APC) in the State dropped that awarded the HND electorate to protect their votes this bombshell at the re- certificate for Olaoluwa and resist any attempt to rig election mega-rally of who is a stark illiterate the election, just as he enjoined Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola should be ready for the them to be peaceful and law abiding during the election held at Iwo City Stadium probe. process.

but the electorate must crush them totally by voting massively for Aregbesola in the coming election. According to Babalola, popularly called Peter Action, PDP is no longer a threat in the

state, saying that the party is currently in shambles and that it could not win any election in the state. Babalola also charged the electorate to be more courageous than 2007 in the forthcoming election and vote for Aregbesola.

Aregbesola would get those votes because he has worked.” Madam Arike praised the governor for his foresight in planning his re-election mega rally campaigns according to the Federal Constituency because that is the only way he could get to the people at the grassroots. She praised the governor for opening up most parts of the state with his road construction projects, noting that all successive administrations had promised to rehabilitate the Gbongan-Iwo Road, but the government of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola had completed it and was set to do more. The governor was charged to concentrate on continuing his good works because all that the opposition is out to do is to discredit and make him lose concentration and ultimately get involved in a messy war of words but it is good that he has been silent and going about his business of governance. Honourable Oladepo Amuda, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Works also stated that the governor is sure of victory because he has the support of the people and there is no doubt about that. He explained that the turnout of the electorate for this mega rally was a testament to the popularity and the love the people have for the governor. Honourable Ismaila Jayeoba Alagbada, the State Commissioner for Commerce, Industry, Co-operative and Empowerment, noted that the governor indeed had worked and is ready to do more for the state. He disclosed that the governor had even made a promise to dualise the OsogboIwo Road when re-elected for a second term and that was the biggest piece of news because the road concerned is a federal road. The rumour making the round that Aregbesola would lay-off workers and ban commercial motorcyclists if reelected however still remains an ordinary rumour because the administration has no plan to do such and is even planning to employ more. With the remaining mega rallies slated for the remaining five federal constituencies, the chances of the opposition get dimmer and it is hoped that they would suffer a crushing defeat.

Iwo Rally: No Candidate ‘ll Ever Beat Aregbesola’s Popularity - Ogunkanmi

Local Government Council Areas for the warm reception they gave to Aregbesola at rally. The crowd was impressive and no one needed to tell us that Aregbesola enjoys maximum support and loyalty from Iwo Federal Constituency. “From time immemorial, Iwo is ever progressive and we are proud to be progressives. The mammoth crowd at the rally is not surprising, because our loyalty and supports for

Aregbesola’s re-election is undoubted. “I will only urge our people to come out with full force as they did at the rally to vote for Aregbesola on election day. The electorate is our strength. We recognise them and we appreciate them. We urged them to continue supporting Aregbesola till and after winning the August 9 governorship election.” Ogunkanmi attributed

Gani Olaoluwa In Trouble Over HND Certificate According to him, it is only in the PDP that its state chairman could acquire an HND certificate before acquiring an Ordinary National Diploma certificate. As a test case, the source of Gani Olaoluwa’s HND certificate is going to be probed. Everything about Olaoluwa attests to his illiterate status. Imagine an

HND holder who cannot speak a correct sentence in English Language. Even if a text is prepared for him, he cannot read. Olaoluwa is in trouble. He must be prepared to defend his certificate. “I will not rest until I get to the authentic root of Gani Olaoluwa’s suspicious HND certificate”, Senator Adeleke said.

Aregbesola’s popularity and support from the people to what he described as numerous developmental projects and the transformation of the state. The executive secretary stated that only a retrogressive and hypocrite would not appreciate Aregbesola’s achievements and efforts towards the development of the state. He maintained that no administration has ever touched the state positively like Aregbesola has done in just a term, saying that the governor deserves a second term. According to him, the governor has fulfilled all his campaign promises and as well implemented all his sixpoint integral action plans. Ogunkanmi challenged the People Democratic Party (PDP) and other parties contesting for the governorship election to state their manifestos, if they have any.

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OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 19, 2014

We ‘ll Capitalise On Aregbesola’s Developmental Stride To Vote - Timi By KAZEEM MOHAMMED

HE Timi of Edeland, Oba Munirudeen Lawal, has hinted that the people of the ancient town would capitalise on the series of developmental projects being executed by Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s administration to make a choice during the August 9 governorship election in the State of Osun. He stated this on Monday road construction among others in his palace while receiving the are some of the projects that All Progressives Congress the people of the area have from the (APC) Campaign Committee benefitted members in Ede/Egbedore/ administration. He added that the people of Ejigbo Federal Constituency, who were in his palace for the ancient town would use royal blessing on the election. this yardstick to decide, with a The Peoples Democratic view to ensuring the Party (PDP) deputy completion of the ongoing governorship candidate, projects. “Experiences in Nigeria Honourable Adejare Bello hails have shown that when from Ede. The monarch said that the government changes, ongoing of preceding ongoing construction of new projects elementary, middle and high administration would be school buildings, as well as the abandoned, but we don’t want ongoing total rehabilitation of that to happen in Ede. “We have seen the ongoing Ede Water Works and massive

rehabilitation of Ede Water Works, ongoing construction of new schools and several other projects that Aregbesola had started and we don’t want all these to be abandoned. “The truth is that in the present administration, we have benefitted a lot. We still want more of these to come and that is what will always be on our minds,” the monarch said. Commending Aregbesola for his efforts on human capacity development, he noted that the employment of youths and sponsorship of youths abroad for training have done a lot of benefits on their lives. The monarch, who gave royal blessings to Aregbesola’s second term ambition, appealed to politicians to as much as possible avoid violence and bloodshed before, during and after the election. Speaking, the Chairman of

the APC Campaign Committee and the Speaker, State of Osun House of Assembly, Honourable Najeem Salaam, said the committee was confident to come out into the open because of the developmental projects that Aregbesola had implemented. He noted that despite the fact that traditional rulers should not engage in partisan politics, Aregbesola’s performance should be able be considered by the people to make informed choice. Salaam then expressed optimism that Aregbesola would emerge the winner of the election, as his achievements are enough to speak for him on the day of election. Beside, at another gathering, the Olu of Sekona, Oba Waheed Adebowale, who spoke on behalf of other monarchs and community heads, said only an

•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (with broom), acknowledging cheers from the crowd during the All Progressive Congress (APC) 2014 Governorship Campaign In Iwo, State Of Osun, Last Tuesday. Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI

Aregbesola Reiterates Commitment To Osun Development By SHINAABUBAKAR

Alabi, told the group that it was not enough to endorse and give the governor an award, but should play their civic role in ensuring that Governor Aregbesola returns as governor on August 9 this year. He enjoined the group to ensure that they get their permanent voters’ cards and vote on election day, as well as monitor and protect their votes. Similarly, the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Hospital, Professor Femi Fadiora, urged the group to

OVERNOR of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has assured the teeming populace of the state of his commitment to make the state a better place for its residents to live and thrive socially and economically. He disclosed this while country next year. The governor also promised addressing members of the Hopelink Solidarity Forum, to look into the issue of health who conferred on him a insurance scheme for workers Trailblazer Award for throughout the state, saying it Meritorious Services and would help in ensuring the endorsed him for a second term proper health care delivery for of office, held at the GMT workers in the state. Hotel in the state capital. In his address, the Chairman The governor said he saw the of the group, Professor Mojeed award as a further call to service and would not relent in his effort to make the State of Osun a reference point for other states in the federation. According to him, the administration’s achievement so far was inspired by God, and would, despite the paucity of NOTHER highlight at the Iwo Federal Constituency fund, ensure that the vision the mega rally for re-election of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola founding fathers had for the in the August 9, 2014 governorship election in the state never go into oblivion. While responding to request State of Osun last Tuesday is the verbal assault report of of leaders of the group on salary Senator Iyiola Omisore, the Peoples Democratic Party’s delay and health insurance (PDP) candidate, against the Area Commander of the Police policy, the governor disclosed in Oriade Local Government Council Area of the state. that the delay in payment of Senator Isaiaka Adeleke, the Senator Adeleke told the salaries was as a result of reduction in the amount due to first civilian governor of the rally that Omisore opened his the state from the federal state, disclosed at the mouth to tell the Area allocation account and non- campaign that Omisore rained Commander that “he must be payment of the fund on time showers of abuse on the area mad. I will report you to your by the Federal Government. commander for the effrontery boss” He therefore urged the of the senior police officer to It would be recalled that group, whose membership is remind him that the senator Omisore, it was, who installed made up of mostly staffers of should be mindful of 6.00pm the current Minister of Police LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, to exercise deadline for the police permit Affairs, Mr Jelili Adesiyan . Adesiyan and Omisore were patience, saying the Federal granted him for ending the rally. It was gathered that Omisore co-accused by Adeleke of Government may stop the illegal deduction of fund after who was furious at the beating him up in a hotel in the governorship election in unsolicited police officer’s Osogbo sometimes ago. the state or general polls in the advice bluntly told him off. At this point, the Area

repay the governor ’s good gesture of ensuring safety of their work by re-electing him back to office on August 9. The several union leaders, who spoke at the gathering, assured Governor Aregbesola of their resolve to embark on voluntary door-to-door campaign to ensure his victory at the poll. The leaders recalled that but for the emergence of the governor, the ownership crisis that rocked LAUTECH could have cost them their means of livelihood and commended him for the way he handled the crisis.

enemy of progress would not want Aregbesola to go for a second term in office. “If Aregbesola is not returned, it means we have lost in our various towns because the development going on will definitely experience setbacks,” he said. In their separate contributions, state lawmakers,

PDP Is An Empty Party, Lacking Credible Leaders - Adeoti By ISMAEEL UTHMAN

ECRETARY to the State Government (SSG) of Osun, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti, has described the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a sinking ship scrambling to hold onto any available substance. Adeoti charged members of 2003 and 2010, adding that its the All Progressives Congress administration would forever (APC) and the electorate not remained a black spot in the to be intimidated by the PDP history of the state. Commending Aregbesola for and their threats, describing his passion for the them as paper tigers. According to Adeoti, PDP development of the state, is long gone in the State of Adeoti noted that the people Osun, as the people had of the state are contented with numerous rejected them since 2007 Aregbesola’s achievements in his first term. governorship election. He expressed optimism that He stated this on Tuesday while speaking at the Iwo Aregbesola would win the Federal Constituency mega August 9, 2014 governorship rally held at Iwo City Stadium election in the state, saying that for the re-election of Governor all indices are in support of his re-election. Rauf Aregbesola. “I know something for sure; The SSG maintained that Governor Rauf Aregbesola and and that is the fact that PDP the APC have successfully can never defeat Aregbesola in swept the PDP out of the state Iwo Federal Constituency and since April 14, 2007 Osun in general. PDP is long gone in the state. It is an empty gubernatorial election. He said PDP, today in the party. “Don’t fear the PDP. Don’t state, is an empty party that lacks credible leaders, ideology, fear them at all. They are paper vision, mission and zeal to tigers. Do not be intimidated by their threats. They would develop the state. Adeoti recalled that the PDP not dare try any rubbish with had misruled the state between us,” he stressed.

Police Chief Commends Ataoja Estate PCRC By MURTALA AGBOOLA

HE Divisional Police Officer of the Ataoja Estate Police Station, CSP Rasaq Rauf, has commended the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) for their active involvement in the security of the community. He made the commendation privileged information should at his maiden meeting with be made available to either the members of the committee in District Crime Officer or his office in Osogbo last himself and promising that Wednesday. prompt action would be taken, The police chief spoke just instead of engaging in jungle as he reiterated that the Nigeria justice. Police Force condemns in Rauf acknowledged that the strong terms, people taking effort of the police in laws into their hands. collaboration with the PCRC He further stressed that has reduced crime rate in the area drastically. The DPO thanked members of the committee for their commitment in ensuring security of lives and property. While admonishing parents to take proper care of their Serubawon (brave man), why children, particularly the girls, did he run when he was to know who they move with, threatened prior to his exit he also tasked parents to report from the PDP, Omisore was to the police any suspicious said to have remarked at the movement in their areas. rally. The chairman of the PCRC, Adeleke who advised the electorate to brace up for the Chief Gbadebo Adeyemo, task ahead on August 9, 2014, while welcoming the new DPO said there won’t be any to the station, pledged the announcement of the result of support of the committee to the governorship election from ensure crime-free society. He also urged members Abuja, adding: “It is going to take place at different polling representing different interests and communities to be stations in the state”. His words: “I was the committed and dedicated to the immediate past chairman of activities of the committee. Adeyemo also encouraged senate committee on INEC. Be rest assured that the result of new and old members to get the election will be announced copies of the constitution, here in Osun at different polling saying the issue of security is booths. We shall vote and a collective responsibility of Aregbesola will be re-elected”. everybody.

You Must Be Mad •Omisore Tells Police Area Commander At Campaign

Commander who could not know what to do was dumbfounded while Omisore was said to have gone ahead with his campaign till after 7.00pm. One of the patrons at the rally said those who knew the implication of the Omisore statement to the senior police officer were visibly worried that such statement could come out from a governorship candidate. Adeleke also disclosed that at one of his political rallies, Omisore who was busy abusing his innocent mother queried the rationale for popularly branding him a brave man (Serubawon). “If truly, Senator Adeleke is

Johnson Ojo (Ede South), Kamardeen Akanbi (Ede North) and Abiodun Awolola (Egbedore) among others, urged the monarchs to sensitise their subjects not to sell their voters’ cards for money. They urged the people to also reciprocate what Aregbesola has done to Edeland in terms of development.

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 19, 2014

EKITI MUST NOT DIE ON THE DAY OF DESTINY By Jide Osuntokun Continued from pg1 As an academic, I have always had the problem on relating to the Nigerian political environment. In fact I always say that my western education has not prepared me well for the hustle and bustle of the Nigerian political environment. I have always had problems adjusting to understanding the nature of our politics. Yet I have practically lived my adolescent life in an intense political environment. How on earth, in the year of our Lord 2014 can anybody compare Kayode Fayemi, our incumbent governor with Ayodele Fayose, our former governor who we are trying very hard to forget that he ever ruled our state? How could a state whose citizens are tempered by education and the struggle against a harsh environment of the hilly topography of the Ekiti State find it acceptable to have a man who ran the state aground and down through bribery and corruption and who imposed himself on the generality of the people of the state including traditional rulers by brute force and coercion including roughing up people violently if necessary? How can he be running to rule the same state whose legislators impeached and removed him from office? This bad dream and nightmare has again come to haunt our people even while we are awake and it seems some people are even giving it a consideration when in fact it should have been rejected outright. On the other hand, we have a good commodity to sell in Fayemi.

This is a man true to his conscience who for the past three and a half years has been tested and proven to be a round peg in a round hole and a governor who instead of shaming us has proved to be an object of pride to all Ekiti people at home and abroad. He is a sober man compared to a man acting like a drunken sailor while in office.

Those who are planning to use extra electoral strategy to rule Ekiti state will not succeed because we will not allow them. I will not be a slave to anybody no matter how highly placed he or she may be and my children and my grandchildren and all Ekiti youth now and in future will not be slaves to outsiders.

Supporters of Fayose describe him as

Our people should be allowed to make a choice and I believe they will make the right choice. Let the word go out that we Ekiti people are inheritors of an intrepid tradition of resistance and if need be, we will resist again, any imposition from outside. Threats have been issued about this election to be a do or die affair.

onijagidi jagan, a roughneck who should never have been governor in the first place. If we are a sensible people, and I think we are, we should not be faced with this choice but the choice is clear. There is no meeting point between darkness and light, between peace and war, between serenity and confusion, between murder and life, between development and underdevelopment, between progress and backwardness and between education and illiteracy. Fayemi is a vessel unto honour. He is not perfect, even our Lord Jesus Christ said no one is perfect. He has set his hands on the plough of Ekiti state’sprogress unless we pull him back, it is forward ever and backward never. As an elder, I cannot keep quiet and allow people to be misled, Fayose has no plan for Ekiti. If he does, he will not be talking about bringing up two new universities when the only one we have is not well funded because the state is not well endowed materially and I speak from experience. His people are going round telling lies in order to hoodwink our people but they will not succeed. One of them without shame told me that telling lies is what they call “political bomb” and that they are ready to use it against Fayemi. I challenge all Ekiti people in diaspora to send word home about this election. We will not allow uncircumcised people from outside to take our patrimony from us.

Huge amount of money will be brought to Ekiti during this time to buy the voters. My advice to my people is to take the money and vote according to your conscience. The development in Ekiti in the last three and a half years provide opportunity for comparison and this is why this election is a referendum on good governance which has been the experience of Ekiti people during the Fayemi administration. We have the opportunity to build on this excellent performance and to lay the solid foundation of an industrialised state enjoying the application of the knowledge of our people for economic development. Peace is a desideratum for development. We have enjoyed this peace for over three years and we do not want to go back to Egypt. No country today can be developed without external support. The same scenario goes for our state. If we do not have a government headed appropriately by a far seeing person, we will not be able to attract economic development assistance because only the deep can speak to the deep. A governor who is known in and outside his state, who speaks the language of the world, a renaissance man and who is sought after by

Omisore’s Unfounded Claim In Osun M Y State, Osun, is now fully in that season when some Teflon politicians cast aside whatever is left of their threadbare integrity. The Osun Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Senator Iyiola Omisore, is no doubt at full throttle in the electioneering season, lying through his teeth, lobbying the self-demeaning salvos of fabrications, and authoring largely unsupportable and unsubstantiated claims against anyone he considers a threat to his ambition, especially the incumbent Governor Rauf Aregbesola. Recently, Omisore howled that the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Osun, Ambassador Oloruntoyin Akeju, was a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He claimed, matter-of-factly, that the REC was Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s lackey and to that end, he would be unfit to conduct the August 9 governorship election. Since he emerged as the governorship candidate of his party in questionable circumstances, Omisore has been ignobly brewing all kinds of tasteless liquor of falsities against his main opponent, Aregbesola,

and the State REC. Of course, he has always drawn blank when asked to substantiate his ostensibly believable assertions. Omisore’s new-fangled falsehood is his hollow claim that Aregbesola is planning to unfurl the canopy of violence on Osun in order to win the governorship election. Virtually all the major newspapers of Monday June 16 reported the Osun PDP

candidate as saying that the 20 Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) bought by the Government of the State of Osun to improve security in the state are to be used by Aregbesola to intimidate the electorate during the election. In the twisted logic of this former Chairman of Senate Committee on Appropriation, the fact that those security equipment are yet to be formally handed over to the police is enough reason to

conclude that they are meant to be used to instigate violence, intimidate opponents, and fill eligible voters with trepidation. Yet, when in April last year Governor Aregbesola handed over five APCs and about 120 patrol vans to the police so as to enhance security, the lying spirit that often inspires Omisore did not lead him to reason then that they would be used to scare-off voters in the election year that is 2014. Now

that further steps are being taken to shore up security in the state as promised, the PDP flagbearer is unduly depressed and making completely baseless claims. Would he have preferred that no improvement is made on the vital business of protecting lives and property in Osun? Since Aregbesola took office, it is evident that security has improved here. Unlike before when the PDP reigned, there is peace and security in all areas

of Osun and the tide of armed robbery has subsided considerably. As the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security explained recently on the State TV station, the newlypurchased APCs are to be positioned strategically in the state to deter criminals and track fleeing inter-state bandits, more so that the armoured vehicles have cameras, guns and other special devices mounted on them. What is Omisore afraid of? Is it that his boys would be deterred by the APC on election day? Is APC anticrime hardware synonymous with APC as a political party and the scourge of PDP? The only individuals who think efforts aimed at improving security in Osun are meant to terrorise law-abiding people are Omisore and his refractory media minders. As always, this Omisore’s claim is groundless. In my view, it is crying wolf where there is absolutely none. The people of Osun must be wary of politicians like Omisore, who specialise in brewing distasteful whisky of unjustifiable affirmations. •DELE ADEBAYO, Ikire, State of Osun.

the haves and have-nots, by billionaires and plebeians for inspiration will be able to attract attention to our state for the economic upliftment of our people. Education means a lot to our people because since independence it has provided means of upward social mobility. We need somebody who knows and appreciates the meaning of sound education. You cannot give what you do not have. We grant Fayose kudos for lifting himself by his bootstrap but he should appreciate what God has done for him and not push his luck too far. He must not allow himself to be used by any external force for their own purpose. If Fayose loves Ekiti people, he himself will accept the fact there is a difference between knowledge and mere understanding, between wisdom and ignorance, between studentship and scholarship. Ekiti is too important for experimentation, we do not need a repeat of a failed poultry experiment that gobbled up N2 billion which could have built us a bright new Ekiti University Teaching Hospital. Fayose as a patriot must tell Ekiti people the truth that he cannot beat Fayemi in a fair contestation of ideas. If we do not monitor this election and allow evil to triumph over good, people will laugh last at us that we have so many PhDs but no sense and that we cannot even make a wise choice. We have to stand up and be counted. This is the time to speak out. At a time like this, silence is not golden. We need to seize the moment and march forward in development under the governorship of Fayemi but if we allow our state to be robbed of progressive rulership, may God forbid, but if we do, let the last man leaving the state shut the door and switch off the light

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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

FOR THE RECORDS

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 19, 2014

The Journey To Great Political Change Has Begun - Tinubu Being the text of an address delivered by APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, at ideas; one bursting with pragmatic and the national convention of the party in Abuja last Friday. workable solutions to our problems and more elated than me today NO oneatisthis convention ground. No more is history in the making; history has been made with the formation and now the first national convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC). I welcome you all. We are gathered here because of the love for country. We know no other country than Nigeria. And because Nigeria matters, we have taken up the challenge to make it better. Conscious of the fact that our country hangs on in the face of a stupendous crisis, mindful that if we do nothing the slide into anarchy and underdevelopment will come upon us, and convinced that our collective effort and sacrifice at a time such as this can reverse for the better the lot of our people, we have put our hands to the plough. Never to look back! That we pulled this merger off is something beyond punditry. It was a merger destined to fail, yet it survived. It was no easy task, but it was a task that needed to be done. This party, the APC is here to stay. We have provided Nigerians with a credible alternative at a time that is most needed. Therefore, we cannot afford to fail or falter. Our eyes are set on a goal bigger than all of us and our destination is a Nigeria where good governance subsists and millions of our people are empowered. We must as a party rise above self and put country first. Though we have differences, we would understand them and work together. Though we would disagree, we would hold those crucial conversations to reach an agreeable consensus. These we will do because we

•TINUBU must never let primordial nor parochial sentiments stand in our way or distract us from the national rescue assignment we have embarked upon. As one of the national leaders of this party, I have dedicated myself to our political collaboration. I am attached to it in the strongest way. I am proud of what we have accomplished. Had we not held fast in the South-West against onslaught and intrigue, Nigeria would effectively be a one party state. In coming together to

form the APC, we have preserved Nigerian democracy when it came under great threat. And when history records the monumental developments of the last decade, it will recognise this great sacrifice. I have demonstrated my irrevocable commitment to democracy, to true political partnerships and to building bridges where none exists not merely in words but through action. I recall that in April 2013, I led the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) at its convention at the Onikan Stadium to be the first party in the merger to dissolve its identity in a yet to be registered political party. It was blind faith then. But today, that blind faith has manifested into reality. It was our collective decision then to sacrifice our party for the sake of Nigeria. In my speech at Onikan stadium, I said, “Weighing all things in the balance, if I must decide between the existence of this party and the improvement of Nigeria, I must choose the improvement of Nigeria. That is our duty and responsibility. While it would be most comfortable to remain with our party as is, with its unique symbol, manifesto and constitution, we are not here to do what is comfortable. We are here to do what is right for our people and our country. We are here to answer to a greater, higher calling. That calling is the love of Nigeria.” As we elect our national officers today, we have embarked on yet another journey. Our destination is sure because our cause is right. Our country needs a new beginning. Nigerian needs men and women who can bring the change that we want so badly. The APC is a party of

challenges as a people. We are not about violence, but about equity, justice and fairness. We want a Nigeria that is prosperous. A people on the path to greater glory. A country where those with vision lead and not blind men. Our agenda is clear and unambiguous. Free and fair elections guaranteed by the use of the full biometric system. A judicial system that dispenses justice without fear or favour. The supremacy of the rule of law. A true federal system and commitment to the tenets of democracy. I still believe very strongly in my assertion made at the Onikan convention. It is my conviction that this convention portends the coming of great political change. A storm is brewing. Don’t be frightened. It is a positive storm with a positive wind. Those things that have no roots and offer no solution to the plight of the people shall be swept away. This storm will change the political terrain forever. I am not afraid of this storm. I welcome it because the storm is us- our new vision. Our new party. I thank you all, APC members here and across Nigeria and in the diaspora for standing by this party. For working for this party. For believing in this party and buying into its vision. We have embarked on a remarkable journey together. Let us stay the course no matter what, so that we can all share in the joy of victory and never wallow in the pond of defeat. I ask you all to join me today to sweep away those that have made this country a laughing stock and pushed our people below the poverty line. When the wind of change blows, it sweeps clean. And that is what we are about. I thank you for listening.

INTERVIEW

Osun Never Borrowed N300b To Finance Projects – Salaam Najeem Folasayo Salaam heads the Osun State House of Assembly and is the number three person in terms of governance in the present administration in the state. The former Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures, a native of Ejigbo State Constituency, in this interview, speaks on the parliament and state of knowledge through the financial engineering of affairs in response to the opposition’s allegation against the executive. Excerpts: N the last three years, the State Assem I bly under your leadership has been peacefully conducting its affairs; does that mean there is no cause for any settlement among members and with the executive arm of government headed by Governor Rauf Aregbesola? Let me start by saying that I have a peculiar parliament under a peculiar government at a peculiar time. Peculiar parliament in the sense that the house comprises 26 members of the same political platform, All Progressives Congress, to be precise. Naturally, it is convenient for a cynic to say that our operation is to rubber-stamp the decision of executive on any given issue. But I make bold to say that no parliament with same party members is more vibrant and robust in debate. This is because arguments are always objective, not sentimental, unlike a divided house where you have lawmakers arguing along the line of political wavelength. Besides, the resultant effect of our unity of purpose is that we are able to point to a fact that only laws that would have positive and direct impact on the welfare of the people would be considered for passage, and that has been our lot since. So, what are those laws that the parliament under your watch has passed, and what is their impact on the society? We have passed many laws in the last three years. In terms of numbers, we have passed close to 25 of them. For instance, the Osun State HIV/AIDS Agency law that we passed is to assist people living with AIDS and HIV to be comfortable and free from stigmatization by the society. It also defines and describes how the funds accrued to the superintending agency would be managed. Besides, we have law on State Security Trust Fund, which was enacted to energize the security regime of the state government, and all stakeholders were mobilized for public hearing to make input before its passage. Today, Osun is not only peaceful, but also secure for any given invest-

ment. Ask any of the banks in all parts of the state; ask the people on the street or stakeholders in financial institutions, they will tell you that things have changed. How much has changed? Before the advent of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola’s administration, it was always a field day for armed robbers. Let the banks and people of Osun confirm or deny this. Do you know that some of the banks that closed shop and fled in my home town, Ejigbo, have not returned up till now; it was just because they have not recovered from the shock of persistent robberies that took place. Also, we passed a law re-organizing the name of the state to State Government of Osun from Osun State, our flag which symbolizes our collective history, and crest that depicts our identity, all these were not there before. We equally amended the public procurement law when we found out that the repealed or amended law was structured around one man, the governor. The new law now gives room for tender board, where things could be done without unnecessary bottleneck. Today, the result is springing up everywhere: roads, bridges, schools, infrastructure, and beautification here and there. There is this allegation by the opposition that the state government has borrowed up to N300 billion to finance its projects. As the head of the legislative arm of the government that must have been in the know, what is your reaction to that? Well, the allegation is not only unfounded, but also defied all rules of logics, because I could not fathom how the so-called opposition comes about the funniest figures thrown up. In the first premise, I say no to that. But let us assume that the information has element of proposition, how would such debt profile be kept under wraps? Tell me of a bank or consortium of banks that will make the facility available to a state, because loan has rule of engagement. One of them is that

•SALAAM you cannot get what you cannot earn. So, can Osun earn N300 billion in two years? So, it is no issue, please confine it to the dustbin. By virtue of your position, could you volunteer how and where Governor Rauf Aregbesola is getting money to executive all his ambitious projects? Get one thing straight, Aregbesola is a symbol of possibility, and his intellectual capacity dwarfs riddles of his critics and cynics. This is a man who had drawn his blueprint long before he got the mantle of leadership, he had done his homework perfectly well, and he knew methods to apply in sourcing funds. Yes, he indicated one time the need to source credit line, which has calculated interest from what you draw not obtained as a whole, but it was obtained to buy off the N18.3 billion loan that was obtained to build six stadia with 30 percent completion. But our state regained its balance to the best of my

Aregbesola. So, the way and manner he is getting funds for all projects is spectacular but open to whoever cares a hoot to know. One of them is plugging leakages in governance, and prudence that separates political office holders of today from yesterday’s men. Is it true that Governor Aregbesola once proposed to Islamicise the state? I would want to answer your question this way. Yes, he wants to Islamize the state along these lines: Aregbesola threw himself into the electioneering campaign of the 26-member House of Assembly, where 15 members are Christian faithfuls. Aregbesola selected 10 Christian commissioners out of 14. He selected nine Christians as Special Advisers out of 10. He had hosted more Christian leaders, and participated in several Christian conventions and revivals, as a statesman. If these are the characteristics of a man with Islamization agenda, I think he wanted to, but if they pointed to leadership with sense of responsibility, the insinuation can be said to be product of idle opposition that is earnestly seeking relevance, having lost power disgracefully. In the last three years, what would the state House of Assembly under your watch celebrate as milestone? The last two years has been very eventful, aside from being partners in the ongoing progress and developmental drive in the state, the infrastructural structures of this parliament have witnessed unprecedented attention. We have succeeded in moving our analogue chamber to digital, and the qualities of laws we have made available have manifested positive results. So, we have a lot, depending on what you want. Culled from DAILY INDEPENDENT

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 19, 2014

All Progressives Congress (APC) 2014 Governorship Mega Rally At Iwo Stadium, Photo: GBENGAADENIYI, SHOLAADERINTO AND JESUDOYIN ABRAHAM. Iwo, State Of Osun, Last Tuesday.

•Governor Aregbesola (arrowed); his wife Sherifat; the deputy governor, Otunba (Mrs) Titi Laoye-Tomori; Senator Isiaka Adeleke; Speaker, Osun House of Assembly, Honourable Najeem Salam and other dignitaries, during Aregbesola’s Re-election Campaign at Iwo Federal Constituency, Iwo, State of Osun, last Tuesday.

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•Governor Aregbesola (right), addressing the ecstatic crowd during his re-election mega rally in Iwo.

PHOTOTALK

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 19, 2014

All Progressives Congress (APC) 2014 Governorship Mega Rally At Iwo Stadium, Iwo, State Of Osun, Last Tuesday. Photo: GBENGAADENIYI, SHOLAADERINTO AND JESUDOYIN ABRAHAM.

•Governor Rauf Aregbesola (arrowed), acknowledging cheers from the mammoth crowd during his re-election campaign at Iwo Federal Constituency, Iwo, State of Osun, on Tuesday.

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•Governor Aregbesola (with broom), acknowledging cheers from his numerous admirers at the Iwo mega rally.

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 19, 2014

PHOTOTALK

All Progressives Congress (APC) 2014 Governorship Mega Rally At Iwo Stadium, Iwo, State Of Osun, Last Tuesday. Photo: GBENGAADENIYI, SHOLAADERINTO AND JESUDOYIN ABRAHAM.

•A cross section of traditional rulers at the Oluwo’s Palace.

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•(L-R) State of Osun deputy governor, Otunba (Mrs) Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori; first civilian governor in the State of Osun, Senator Isiaka Adeleke; Governor Rauf Aregbesola; his wife, Sherifat and the Speaker, State of Osun House of Assembly, Honourable Najeem Salaam at the Iwo mega rally.

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•Enthusiastic crowd at the Iwo mega rally.

PHOTOTALK

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 19, 2014

All Progressives Congress (APC) 2014 Governorship Mega Rally At Iwo Stadium, Iwo, State Of Osun, Last Tuesday. Photo: GBENGAADENIYI, SHOLAADERINTO AND JESUDOYIN ABRAHAM.

•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, waiving a broom to his ecstatic numerous admirers and crowd at the re-election campaign at Iwo Stadium, Iwo, last Tuesday.

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•Governor Aregbesola acknowledging cheers from the crowd at Iwo Stadium, Iwo, during the re-election campaign.

ISSUE ANALYSIS

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 19, 2014

OLUSESI ISAAC writes that the outcomes of the on-going governorship campaigns in Osun and Ekiti States centre around the pivotal parameters of party strength, incumbency, campaign issues, campaign budgets, and candidate’s applied personal characteristics, professing that one political party has marketable electoral credentials, and the other party, electorally deficient.

Osun, Ekiti: APC, PDP Guber Campaigns And Outcomes HE defection and re-defection by Nigeria politicians only point up the dialectics of political equation and dynamics of electoral calculus, explainable in terms of the wave of ideological inclination, or the tide of material interest of the political elites. Politicians’ decamping and re-decamping ipso facto are a major factor in the partisan strength of the political party, aimed at capturing the baseline support which the party’s candidates for governorship election should have, and confirming the partisan attachment of the politicians and voters to the choices of the governorship candidates they make at the polls in Osun and Ekiti State. As though, the two States are not islands, the gubernatorial elections on the way are unaffected by national electoral trends. The States have been insulated from the effects of national electoral swings by the non-coincidence of the governorship elections with the presidential or congressional election space, and this has longitudinally mitigated the compelling elements of the national electoral swings in the June and August governorship elections, respectively in Ekiti and Osun. Defection or re-defection obiter dictum, the outcomes of the blitz and glitz of the campaigns for governorship, considered as the more saliently competitive than other public electoral contests, center around four major influences- the effect of party electoral strength, the effect of incumbency, effect of campaign issues, and the impact of campaign budget. The electoral strength of the two front burner political parties, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has enormous bearing on the outcomes of the gubernatorial elections in Osun and Ekiti. The electoral strength of the respective political party bears a strong relationship to the votes for governorship, as the strength of either APC or PDP yields a proportionate increase in the votes for the party and its gubernatorial candidate. Party strength plays substantially more important role in gubernatorial elections. Governorship campaign generally cannot be accounted for very well from the predisposition of the voters alone, or the reported voting behavior of individual citizens of voting age. The partisan strength of the party and its gubernatorial candidate remains a robust factor in the outcomes of the governorship campaigns as the party plays persistent part in explaining variations in the vote shares for governorship. Using the fully developed comparative analysis, there is substantial APC dominance in Osun and Ekiti, with more than eighty percent, APC; and less than twenty percent, PDP, in the respective States. The analysis, in terms of the partisan division of the votes rather than in terms of differences between the APC incumbent governors of Osun and Ekiti and their PDP challengers, places the APC in the winning stead and the PDP in the loosing track in the imminent governorship election in the two States. Incumbency is another cue which voters use to make their electoral choices. The incumbent candidates, Governor Rauf Aregbesola of APC, Osun, and Governor Kayode Fayemi of APC in Ekiti have an advantage over their PDP challengers. The incumbent status gives Aregbesola and Fayemi greater visibility and acceptability to the voters and the political resources at their disposal allow them conduct more extensive campaigns just as they could amass large campaign “chests” that widen and deepen their re- election outings. With each year passing in office, the tenure of the incumbent governor produces an increase in the share of votes. However, incumbency becomes a less valuable asset where the number of years of the incumbent in office are adjudged wastrel, wasteful due to the non-performances of the ex-PDP governors of Osun and Ekiti, respectively Olagunsoye Oyinlola and Olusegun Oni some years ago, who consequentially, pari passu faced some peril for their obvious lack of campaign issues; while their governorship challengers at the time, that is, Aregbesola of Osun APC, and Fayemi of Ekiti APC became more visible and acceptable to voters. Today, for reasons of numerous high performances of APC in Osun and Ekiti, the party gubernatorial candidates have become substantially non-vulnerable to electoral defeat. For APC, the advantage of incumbency has increased and profoundly complimented by the party’s on-going value-added campaigns. But it must be said that the return of the incumbents can be non sequitor; the campaign expenditures, the effect of “money talks” are a crucial factor in the electoral outcomes as a high proportion of campaign spending unmistakably shows that the party strength is high. The size of the campaign budgets of the APC and PDP governorship candidates would indicate the outcome of the campaigns. The gubernatorial election in Osun and Ekiti would be determined by the campaign activities and efforts captured by the campaign budget. Expenditures on campaigns for television and radio time, social media, newspapers advertising, bill boards, campaign literature and campaign workers are particularly important and have escalated sharply compared, for example to what it was in 2007 governorship campaigns in Osun. Since incumbency is not strongly associated with the party’s size of campaign budget, going by the 2007 electoral defeat of the PDP’s Oyinlola in Osun; it can be said that campaign spending of any political party may likely enhance the party vote margin. Analytically however, the outcomes of the on-going governorship campaigns will be more a function of a party’s electoral strength in the two States; and the effect of T

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incumbency in Osun and Ekiti, referring to the multiple social, economic and political developments which the years of the incumbents in office have brought pro bono publico. For the APC sic. Incumbency is a compelling factor in the outcomes of the gubernatorial campaigns. Although the APC and PDP gubernatorial candidates’ expenditure are naturally expected to present different relationships to the share of the governorship votes in Osun and Ekiti, the spending effects are not differential as between the incumbents, the APC; and the challengers, the PDP per se. But APC has built-in electoral advantages. The partisan strength of the APC in both States carries more weight. Both the APC’s Aregbesola in Osun, and the APC’s Fayemi, Ekiti have the edge in terms of the party strength, incumbency, campaign issues and campaign expenditures; though campaign expenditures of APC and PDP on gubernatorial campaigns may have different effects on the vote outcomes, the campaign spending, important in gubernatorial contests is certainly not all inclusive. Under strict pivotal parameters of incumbency, party strength, applied personal characteristics of the gubernatorial candidates, and campaign issues which are essentially the record of achievements of the incumbent administration and campaign budget, the progressives, the APC should win by about ninety-two per cent of the votes, the PDP less than ten per cent in Osun; and the APC sixty per cent of the votes, PDP less than forty per cent in Ekiti State. On the other hand, the conservatives, the PDP in the two States are electorally disadvantaged such that beyond a certain point, additional campaign spending does them little or no good at all. The PDP is deficient in terms of party strength, applied personal characteristics of gubernatorial candidate, the perquisites of incumbency, campaign issues and benefits from increased campaign spending; and although campaign expenditures by the challengers, the PDP, may have the largest impact on the gubernatorial campaign outcomes for the party, the more the PDP in Osun and Ekiti spend, the fewer votes they would garner as it is also clear that they had spent large

sums of money in the primary battles. The PDP spending quite monotonically improves its gubernatorial candidates vote shares. The party’s expenditures on campaigns will reach a diminishing return partly as a consequence of declining populations at campaigns and partly as a corollary of “over spending” to overcome large electoral handicaps. “Winning at the governorship polls should therefore be an uphill battle for the PDP governorship candidates in the two states, Dr. Wale Bolorunduro, Osun State Commissioner for Finance, Budget and Planning said ex cathedra. The political, moral and financial contributions of interest groups like market women, professional bodies, labour unions, students unions, small business groups, artisans, okada riders, road transport workers, civil society groups, et seq. would significantly affect the outcomes of the APC, PDP gubernatorial campaign outcomes in Osun and Ekiti States, just as defection or re-defection of politicians are also a predictor of the campaign outcomes. The characteristics of, for instance the defection of former Governor Isiaka Adeleke in Osun and former Governor Segun Oni in Ekiti, both from PDP to APC, underscoring ideological particularism in the political process, are capable of stabilizing the APC campaign and electoral terrains to generate desired magnificent campaign fortunes for the party in the two States. While the kind of a family compound, small circuit, feather weight politician called Sunday Laoye (a.k.a Temak) who defected infra dignitatem from APC to PDP in Osun is the subjective condition of materialism, perpetrated by Laoye’s overwhelming self economic pursuit to confront feigned poverty and hunger, and perpetuated by his electoral vagueness garbed in over bloated electoral value that has further dovetailed intoto the electoral disadvantaged Osun PDP, making the party gubernatorial campaign outcomes everybody’s guess. •Olusesi is Assistant Director, Directorate of Publicity, Research and Strategy, All Progressives Congress, State of Osun.

FEATURE

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 19, 2014

On The Trail Of Aregbesola’s Campaigns The Ile-Ife, Osogbo and Ikire ecstatic campaign crowds have established the massive support Governor Rauf Aregbesola enjoys across Osun. The colour, content and messages that have attended the campaigns so far have shown nothing other than how a people appreciate the turnaround of the state by a people-focused government, writes ADEKUNLE OWOLABI. Scheme. “All these we have done and are doing. While we want a second term is to consolidate on all these achievements, as well as lay down a solid foundation for credible governance,”Aregbesola said. The Serubawon Factor

•(L-R) The deputy governor, State of Osun, Otunba (Mrs) Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade; the Governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and Senator Jide Omoworare in the Palace of the Ooni of Ife before proceeding to the mega rally at Government Technical College, Ilode, Ile-Ife, recently. The Journey to the Source, Ile Ife HE return of the mythical Oranmiyan to Ile-Ife, considered as the source of all Yoruba could not have been a strange thing given the well-known Yoruba mythology. Perhaps, this was what made the flag-off of the re-election campaigns of Governor Rauf Aregbesola, popularly seen as symbol of the Oranmiyan phenomenon, to be seen as somewhat an electrifying event that would be memorable for a long time to come. Some called it a political fanfare. Some said it was in celebration of a political figure, who symbolizes the new thinking and perspective in political re-ordering. Whatever you chose to call it, the Ife Federal Constituency re-election campaign of Governor Rauf Aregbesola brought the Ooni Okunade Sijuwade’s Ile-Ife to a standstill on Tuesday May 27, 2014. Reminiscent of Jesus Christ’s triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the carnival that attended the entry of Ogbeni, as he is popularly called, has given his supporters the confidence to say that what looks like the only challenge to his re-election, Senator Iyiola Omisore, who hails from the ancient city, is really no match for the governor. The whole town was agog. From the main entry point through the popular Lagere Road down to Enuwa, the palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, people poured into the streets in thousands to welcome the campaign train of the governor. For close to six hours, Ile-Ife stood still for the ACN governorship candidate. The first point of call was the palace where Aregbesola was received and regaled in a grand manner typical of the demonstration of Ooni’s majesty. The significance of Aregbesola’s straight journey to the palace was not lost on the people. The monarch’s Iwure (royal blessing) and endorsement that followed put paid to all insinuations that given the fact that the Peoples Democratic Party’s candidate is of the Ife stock, the royal father of the city might be tempted to blindly throw his weight behind one of his subjects who is eyeing the same position. But not only did the Ooni pray for Aregbesola, his words were believed to be profound enough attestation to the royal support he is poised to offer to the governor, whose sterling performance he affirmed. In his remark, the first-class monarch said election is not a do-or-die affair but only a civil exercise to choose those who the people

want to lead them. In a passionate prayerful mood that appears to have jolted the opposition, the influential royal father had said in Yoruba, “Olorun to fi e s’ibe, ko de ni mu e kuro” (meaning God that enthroned you will ensure your continuity in office). He also said: “All you have been doing are not for yourself or for your people. You are striving for the good of the entire Yoruba race, for the country. God will always be with you.” Ooni said he had called a meeting of all politicians in the town and cautioned them to conduct themselves in the peaceful manner devoid of bloodshed. The monarch commended Aregbesola for his numerous achievements in all sectors of governance. “As royal father to all, I can only tell the politicians to conduct themselves in the accepted manner and play according to the electoral rules. “Election is just a routine through which people elect those they want to rule them. “Therefore, election is not synonymous with bloodshed. This is why I cautioned all politicians to eschew violence before, during and after the election,” Ooni said. Armed with the royal blessing, Aregbesola’s campaign train had left the palace, snaking through the city on its way to the campaign ground at the Ile-Ife Technical School playground. Expectedly, commercial activities came to an end; traffic movement slowly wound to a halt. Left, right and centre, people radiated happiness, as they saw a leader, who, for close to four years now, has busied himself with how his people would live better and qualitative lives different from the lives of hopelessness they had been subjected to in the years past. At the campaign ground, speakers after speakers x-rayed the performance of Aregbesola, which they said is uncommon, unrivalled and unarguably unassailable at the moment. Senators Jide Omoworare, in whose hand Omisore had suffered a humiliating defeat in the 2011 National Assembly election, in the Osun East senatorial District and Professor Sola Adeyeye, representing the Osun Central Senatorial District, said Omisore has no mental capacity to serve the state. The lawmakers averred that the job of administering the state is enormous and

Omisore is unprepared and lacks the knowhow to rule the state. “Ogbeni Aregbesola is God-sent to the people of Osun. In just a single term of four years, this wonderful man transformed the state positively. “The truth of the matter is that Omisore has no mental capacity to govern this developing state. “As senator, Omisore cannot point to anything beneficial he has done for Ile-Ife not to talk of Osun. “What has he brought to his town, his state from his much-touted mainstream politics?” the lawmaker said advising the people to vote wisely by voting for Aregbesola’s continuity in office. In what has become characteristic of his campaigns, Aregbesola undoubtedly stirred the crowd by simply telling them what his administration had done since his assumption of office. According to the governor, seeking reelection is to perfect the establishment of genuine and credible leadership that only aims at delivery of service to the people in the state. He said though electoral fraudsters stole his mandate in 2007, warning that the shenanigans of 2007 would not happen again in the history of Osun politics. Aregbesola also remembered 12 innocent people, who were killed in their bid to prevent rigging in their constituencies, saying never again would violence against the people be allowed in any part of Osun. Aregbesola’s emphasis against violence was understandable. Not only were members of his party killed in 2007, no fewer than another six were brutally murdered on the eve of the National Assembly election in 2011. For a man who hinges his bid for second term on his scorecard for the first opportunity to serve, Aregbesola reeled out his administration’s achievements in the Ife Federal Constituency thus: “We have touched lives in all facets of human endeavours. “In the constituency, we have constructed more the 50 km of intra-city roads; built six new schools, several boreholes, distributed 1, 473 pieces of Opon Imo tablets to high school students. “This is in addition to ensuring adequate security by providing necessary equipment to security agencies, provision of health care facilities, as well as monthly welfare package for vulnerable elders under the Agba Osun

The intimidating crowd in Ife seems to have sent signals to many quarters. From then, the wave of defections to the APC has increased. While many are still believed to be on their way perfecting their defection strategies, former Governor of the State, Senator Isiaka Adeleke formally boosted the rank of the APC with his defection on Saturday May 31, when he led thousands of his supporters to the APC. Adeleke was given a grand reception at the state capital, where Governor Aregbesola and his Ekiti counterpart, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and the Interim National Chairman of the party, Chief Bisi Akande were on hand to receive the new political bride. Addressing the gathering at the popular Nelson Mandela Freedom Square, Osogbo, Adeleke said he dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) because he does not want a mediocre to take over from a performing governor so as to avoid dragging the hand of the clock of progress backward. Adeleke said: “I am happy to be with the progressives. I was a governor under Social Democratic Party (SDP), which was a progressive party. “I was involved in the struggle for the actualisation of the June 12, 1993 presidential election. I cannot work for a thug to become the next governor of the state.” Campaigns or Dodo Ikire carnival? It was this streak that blazed down to Ikire on Tuesday June 3 when the campaign train berthed at Isokan/Ayedade/Irewole Federal Constituency. As is the tradition, the governor first paid homage to the traditional ruler of the town, Akire of Ikire, His Royal Highness, Oba Olatunde Falabi, who commended the governor for what he described as a revolutionary touch in the state. Oba Falabi said the people did not need a soothsayer to tell them that the government of APC has brought huge development to the state in the past three and half years. Falabi would not see any need to change what he called winning team in the affairs of Osun. “You have done very well in your first term. We did not need another person to tell us that. “We can see the development with our very eyes. We can see the transformation of the state all around us. “In fact, you have been doing the job as if your life depends on it. With this achievement, your second term is guaranteed,” Akire said. A leader of the party, also one time PDP chieftain and Chief of Staff to Oyinlola before dumping the party for APC, Elder Peter Babalola, in his campaign speech, said PDP, in its seven and half years in government performed abysmally. Babalola averred that the poor performance of PDP was exposed when in just a single term of almost four years, Aregbesola changed the face of the state. He noted that his own constituency, Isokan-Irewole-Ayedaade Federal constituency benefitted immensely from Aregbesola’s positive transformation saying “Today, my constituency is better than when the PDP and I were in power. “In fact, government projects in my federal constituency are countless and the people can attest to that. So we have benefitted from APC government of Aregbesola.”

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FEATURE

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 19, 2014

On The Trail Of Aregbesola’s Campaigns

•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (arrowed, on top of a bus), acknowledging cheers from the mammoth crowd, during his re-election mega rally in Ila/Ifedayo/Boluwaduro Federal Constituency at Ila Township Stadium, Ila-Orangun recently. Continued from page 12 Roads leading to the campaign ground came out in different colours as multiple social and political groups, professional groups, artisans resplendent in colourful attires lined the route to add glamour to the scene. On the left side of the route, you would see an aged woman shaking her fragile frame to the rhythm of entertaining beats. At the other side of the road, you would see an excited baby at the back his mother looking innocently but quite conscious something unusual was happening in the environment. Down another road, you would see a bike rider displaying his dexterity and mastery of the machine on the road. Another time, you would see a young man in acrobatic display, all in excited display of love for the man they are convinced has brought meaning to their lives. A middle-aged woman, confounded by the motley crowd, preened here and there, telling bystanders in local dialect “Aregbe ni jare; e je a gba f’olohun’ meaning ‘It is Aregbe. Let us just accept that this man is God-sent. The roadshow train later arrived at St. John’s Primary School playground Ikire, which had already been filled to the brim. It was this gathering that Senator Isiaka Adeleke, addressed, telling them to allow the incumbent governor to continue his positive transformations of the state. Adeleke said that Aregbesola has performed excellently in the state, thus deserving to consolidate and finish with what he has started. He called on members of All Progressives Congress (APC) and citizens to vote for continuity come August 9, saying it will be wise to show the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party that Osun’s governorship seat is not meant for people bereft of idea. “I want to plead with our members and Osun people to use their vote to bring back Aregbesola because he has worked tremendously for the development of Osun, you should make sure that we score 80 per cent of the votes. “If we are able to do this, we will be killing an ant with a sledge hammer,” Adeleke said. He averred that with present government’s developmental strides in the state, if election holds tomorrow, Aregbesola’s victory is guaranteed, saying Senator Omisore is only grandstanding. While speaking, Aregbesola said his achievement in his first term in office will be dwarfed by that of second term, if elected. The governor said they should expect

more than the 88 boreholes which had been sunk in the federal constituency; 2,299 Opon Imo distributed to secondary schools in this axis and the beautification of Asejire to Gbongan on Ibadan-Ife Expressway. Aregbesola also listed five newly-built ultra-modern school buildings; intra and inter road networks totalling 60 km among other things in Isokan-Ayedaade-Irewole Federal constituency. In his words, “We believe, and are of the opinion that power is responsibility. But PDP believe that power has no responsibility. That is the difference between the two of us. “Our party rules with the aim of running a government that is beneficial to the people. We have the people’s welfare at heart. “Whereas the PDP is selfish, greedy and avaricious. We do not resemble them. PDP was here for close to eight years. Was it in their imagination that ambulances were needed on our roads?” To this question, there was a resounding “Noooooooooo!!!!!!” from the huge crowd. State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives and Empowerment, Mr. Ismail Alagbada, succinctly put the scenario thus: This is simply electrifying! But we do not expect anything less than this. The last three years and more have seen us working ourselves to the bone,” Alagbada said. Like in a carnival, Dodo Ikire, a popular delicacy made of mashed ripe plantain was served in excess to all that came for the campaign that day. Just as the people went hysterical with the campaigns, so they savoured the pleasure that had been part of the economic life of the Ikire town for decades. Day Ila-Orangun Stood Still for Ogbeni Having gone to Ile-Ife and Ikire, it appeared that the federal constituencies were poised to outdo one another in the mobilization of the supporters. When the campaign train of Aregbesola arrived in Ila-Orangun, the crowd that received him and his team appeared to have dwarfed those of Ife and Ikire. Perhaps, being the homestead of the Interim National Chairman of the APC, Chief Bisi Akande (as at that day), it was not unexpected that a tumultuous crowd came forward to assure Aregbesola of his second term in office. For those who witnessed the maiden campaign at the source of Yorubaland, IleIfe and that of Ikire Federal constituencies, they would all agree that Ila-Orangun went extra miles in their demonstration of love

for the governor. The Bisi Akande factor was one that brought the crowd out. Historically, Orangun of Ila, according to Yoruba history, was the first born of Oranmiyan. With Aregbesola seen as the symbol of Oranmiyan, there was no other place that would be ideal for the Oranmiyan forbears to conflate than Ila-Orangun. This was the second major factor that added pep to the crowd in Ila-Orangun. Ila was therefore a beehive of activities as the people trooped out in thousands to give their governor a rousing welcome. Starting from the entrance road leading down into the heart of the ancient town, people, young and old, men and women, indigenes and non-indigenes, APC members and sympathisers all came out en masse. The arrival at the palace of Orangun of Ila, His Royal Highness, Oba Abdulwahab Adedotun, was in grand style, as human and vehicular traffic freely mingled to form a long and unbroken cavalcade on which the governor rode into the waiting arms of traditional rulers and their chiefs, who were all eager to offer their blessings. These included Oba Adedokun Abolarin, the Orangun of Oke-Ila; Oba Samuel Oladosu Idowu, the Akesin of Ora Igbomina; Oba Isaac Adetunlurese, the Onirun of Oke-Irun; Oba (Dr.) Taiwo Adesoji, the Owaloja of Kajola Ajaba. The roll call also included the Oba Sikiru Adeseun, the Oluresi of Iresi; Oba A. A. Oladipo, the Edigbo of Edemosi; Oba Samuel Bamidele Oyediran, the Eleripa of Eripa; Oba Rasaq Abidoye Adeleke, the Owa Magbon of Ila Magbon and Adeniran Ayepola, and the representative of th Owa of Igbajo. All these royal fathers had confirmed what they called unprecedented change in the affairs of Osun since the arrival of the incumbent governor. Then the Orangun of Ila, launched into the royal blessing, after which prayers were also offered in Christian, Islamic and traditional modes. Armed with the royal blessings again, the lion roared into town! Ogbeni came out to the waiting hands of the now impatient crowd, which had formed an unending line at both sides of the road, chanting, singing, dancing and with re-invigorating gusto, waiving their flags of APC and broom. The crowd was uncontrollable, moving energetically along the Ajegunle to Ora Road and on and on to Ila-Orangun City Stadium, the venue of the campaign. Akande, while speaking, described the crowd as uncommon and an unthinkable assemblage of people.

He described Aregbesola as a unique leader, who promises and delivers on those promises. Chief Akande said Aregbesola is a Godsent to the State of Osun to come and place it on an enviable height. The former governor of the state averred that most of the laudable programmes of Aregbesola sometimes look impracticable. “But he has demonstrated to us through his political sagacity that they, in actual fact, are achievable,” said the former Interim National Chairman of the APC. In a way, Aregbesola’s previous saying that his opponent from the PDP would be an impeached deputy governor facing four governors was gradually coming to pass. In Ila, at least, three of the governors (Aregbesola, Akande and Adeleke) were on hand at the same campaign ground to send the message home that the candidate of the PDP or any other candidate has no chance in the August 9 poll. He rebutted the rumour making the round that he collected money before decamping to APC, saying “I am not rich, but I am not also hungry.” For Adeleke, it was an opportunity again to debunk earlier allegation that he was induced by the APC to deplete the ranks of the PDP in the state. It was also an opportunity for the Deputy Governor, Otunba (Mrs) Grace Titi LaoyeTomori, to describe as unsubstantiated claim by the opposition that Governor Aregbesola plans to retrench workers immediately after he secures his mandate for second term. Laoye-Tomori said there is no government today in the country that is more workers’ friendly than the government of Aregbesola. Logically, the deputy governor said, it does not add up for a government that is recruiting teachers and others in the state because of acute shortage in personnel in some critical areas, to at the same time conceive the idea of downsizing. The Deputy Governor averred that government has employed more than 10, 000 teachers and 3, 500 women for the O’Meal programme more than any government in the history of the state. She said: “This government has no plan to retrench anybody. The rumour is emanating from opposition, which did nothing when it was in power. “This is a cheap lie and our people can read in-between the lines that the opposition has failed in the state.” Characteristic of his appearances in Ile Ife and Ikire, Aregbesola also highlighted some of the successes his administration has recorded in the area to the admiration of the people. “We have completed the rural electrification at Idi-Omo, Osoro/Idoka (Boluwaduro Local Government); Alagbede and Secretariat Area (Ila Local Government); Igbajo/Oke Irun; Sawmill Area, Ora (Ifedayo Local Government), reinforcement of Osogbo-Ila 33KVA feeder (in progress). “We have repaired 200KVA transformers in Edemosi and Ila Local Government constructed a block of three classrooms with furniture and town hall at Faje Obalogbon in and Kajola –Ajaba in Ila-Orangun; primary health centre and town hall with equipment in Idi-Awewe and Gaa Fulani in Ifedayo Local Government. “We also distributed N1.8 million interest-free loans to women; repaired 45 non-functioning hand-pump boreholes and provided75 hand pump boreholes in Ifedayo. “We have constructed 26.12 km of roads in Ila/Boluwaduro/Ifedayo Federal constituency and distributed 845 pieces of Opon Imo in 11 schools in the federal constituency to mention but few,” Aregbesola said. The rallies expected to take the governor to all nooks of the state are meant to showcase the goodies that the journey of the last three and a half years has brought to the people. Each campaign is expected to bring up messages of hopes, as other parts of the state get ready to receive the campaigns train. Owolabi is of the Bureau of Communications and Strategy, Office of the Governor.

FEATURE

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 19, 2014

A memorable quote from Senator Isiaka Adeleke on the PDP candidate in the State of Osun, Senator Iyiola Omisore, Minister of Police Affairs, Alhaji Jelili Adesiyan and another PDP chieftain in the state, Sogo Agboola. Omisore, Police Minister Beat Me Up - Adeleke “On entering the hall, I saw Omisore, Adesiyan, Sogo Agboola sitting together. I went to Adesiyan to complain that police officers and DSS operatives were holding party men outside. But, instead of listening to me, he jumped over a table before him and hit me with a blow on the chest. Sogo Agboola also attacked me. Before I knew what was happening, Omisore hit me with a blow from the back. About seven guns corked were pointed at me,” Adeleke asserted. •Culled from Nigerian Tribune, Thursday April 3, 2014

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OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 19, 2014

PHOTOTALK

All Progressives Congress (APC) 2014 Governorship Mega Rally At Iwo Stadium, Iwo, State Of Osun, Last Tuesday. Photo: GBENGAADENIYI, SHOLAADERINTO AND JESUDOYIN ABRAHAM.

•A mammoth crowd at the rally.

•A cross section of enthusiastic crowd at the Iwo mega rally.

www.osundefender.org TUESDAY, JUNE 19, 2014 ROVIDENCE P places great burden of rational thinking and action on all human beings for the simple reason that it is they that the Maker put in place as coordinators of all activities that all other creatures get involved in. Other animals may do things any how due to peculiarities of low intelligent quotients attributable to each of their species, it is not so with human beings because God in His wisdom fashioned it in such a manner that human beings are blessed with brains and gumptions that are better developed than those of other lower animals. It is therefore, an anathema for human beings to do things that portend moral imbalance, and are at variance with natural ethos that prompted the Supreme Designer to refer to us as creatures created after His own image. All human societies have codes of conduct that regulate institutional behavioural patterns which are considered acceptable in their day to day quests for survival. These are otherwise referred to as societal norms, and their contravention attracts grave penalties which often serve as deterrents to the recalcitrant ones, as proportionate punishments are invoked. Law of equity is also applied so that nobody will be seen as being above the common laws that are jointly propounded, and coded for constant reference for application. There is also the other aspect of operational principles that are not expressly coded and documented, but are understood to be pivotal to institutional survival. This is termed commonsensical because it is pretty understood by, and acceptable to everybody and those who defy their observance are branded accordingly for possible alienation. There are those under certain forces that make them operate in delusions, with obstinate propensity to always act contrary to universal norms. They are often ostracized by the majority, but the minority that flow with them often create an impression that all is well with them so as not to feel alienated. Those who make them feel alright make use of conjectures to influence the environment and cause confusions amongst those with better understanding of the true situation of events. Ironically, because they cohabit with those who strictly adhere to normative order, the brunt they bear also have negative influence on the innocent. That is why it is often said that when a relation is preying on forbidden insect, one is duty-bound to avert it, so that the resultant unpleasant noise does not constitute a menace of sleeplessness. In sane climes are usages that

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By ADE OLUGBOTEMI

Osun Election: PDP Feigning Sanity In Apparent Irrationality “Omisore’s loyalists cannot succeed in their clownish ploy to force people down with their dwarfish sentiment of cajoling voters of this state to a voyage of slavery and excruciating retrogression.” make possible for approval to be given to those normal practices for societal social dynamics, different from those aberrations considered dysfunctional to systemic survival, which are summarily repudiated to avert danger. Mistakes can occur due to the nature of man that is laced in fallibility; that is why opinion leaders are always vigilant so that timely steps are taken for accompanying dangers to get mitigated before serious arm is done. Any system that fails to be proactive against inevitable dangers end up losing touch with developmental attributes that others exploit to make headway in life. That is why we are speaking of some countries towering over and above their contemporaries that got independence at the same time. We often speak of antecedence because reference must be made to past acts that call for emulation, and those that are disdainful and condemnable. Whichever predominates in individuals determines whether it is right to repose confidence in, and trust individuals or not. People are entrusted with responsibilities based on what they have done or what they have failed to do in the past. The rational instincts in people thus compel them to either entrust position seekers with their mandates or not. When mandate or position seekers have no past that portray them as people of integrity, they resort to

violence, thuggery, and other unconventional ways to force their way through. The polity is getting heated up because just as the incumbent is gearing for another shot at gubernatorial contest that will afford him another term in office, candidates from other political parties are also strategizing to ensure that they come out victorious in August 9, 2014 election. Electorate are beginning to weigh options as they deem it fit based on personal convictions, and as made available to them. It would have been better if it is limited to deeming it fit based on personal convictions only, because individuals’ rational suasiviness will enjoy paramountcy. People would have come to terms with score cards and performance credentials which respective candidates can honestly and unambiguously wield; bearing in mind that all of them have enjoyed representation status at one time or the other. Apart from the incumbent governor whose performance in office needs no overbearing orchestration for being visible on ground, others must sweat it out to convince the electorate why they should be preferred over and above the magical Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola. The closest Rival in Senator Iyiola Omisore needs frantic moral burden unbundling because of his purported roles in various malfeasances, including the hacking to

death of Bola Ige in 2001. Omisore was upbraided for individual loyalists’ empowerment, and his charlatanic imperviousness to communal facelift during the period he held sway as twoterm Senator representing Ife\Ijesa senatorial district. Other contenders like Fatai Akinbade and Segun Akinwusi, among others have Lilliputian political pedigrees in terms of party formations that cannot be seen to pose any threat to Ogbeni Aregbesola’s re-election bid. People now have their destinies in their own hands as they have absolute freedom to juxtapose all options that are laid bare before them. Absence of tangible achievements as campaign issues has made those who desperately need to convince people about their perceived voting pattern to resort to foul means to discredit the sitting governor. Seeing that the antics are not paying off, they are now going about telling people about the precedent in Osun where office holders are not voted in twice. They are trying to put people’s rationality to test, trying to blindfold them about the reality that kept a Peoples Democratic Party’ governor in power for almost eight years in office. They seem to have forgotten that if Osun electorate are wary of voting political office holders in twice, it is to the extent that such two-term seekers have put up performance dismality when tested at one time with people’s mandates. People in the State of Osun cannot, and must not subscribe to sheepish persuasion that will change world’s perception of a people that voted wisely in 2007 when Aregbesola turned out to be the preferred choice above the then incumbent Olagunsoye Oyinlola. Britain was our colonial master, and they are not so daft that for the first time they swallowed their pride to invite a governor from Nigeria to educate them about the magic wand that propelled one Governor Aregbesola of the State of Osun in the Federal Republic of Nigeria to continue sustaining the O-Meal programme that has long been dropped by the Federal Government that initiated and started it. Omisore’s loyalists cannot succeed in their clownish ploy to force people down with their dwarfish sentiment of cajoling voters of this state to a voyage of slavery and excruciating retrogression. •This piece, first published in the Tuesday, April 29, 2014 edition is repeated due to popular demand. - Editor

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.