Osun Defender - June 5th, 2014 Edition by OsunDefender

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www.osundefender.org THURSDAY, JUNE 5, 2014 To call this period a season of endorsement in the state of Osun is to simply state the obvious as different groups are coming out in unprecedented manner to openly endorse the state's helmsman, Governor Aregbesola for another term .

PEOPLE FIRST

Front Page Comment Aregbesola: A rash of endorsement From East to the West and North to the South of the state; in fact, across all the nooks and crannies of Osun voices are audible passionately

calling for the return of Ogbeni for second term. No one - progressive minded people who cherish development as so far recorded under

Aregbesola - seems to be left behind in this noble call. Both indigenes and nonindigenes alike are trooping out daily in support of Aregbesola second term project. This is quite interesting. Continue on pg5

VOL. 9. NO.067

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

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IGE

Osun 2014: Ikire Agog For Aregbesola Campaign Train •As Governor Promises Completion Of Ikire, Orile Owu Electrification - See Story On Page 2

•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (left), addressing a mammoth crowd, during his re-election campaign in Irewole/Ayedaade/Isokan Federal Constituency, Ikire, State of Osun, on Tuesday.

How PDP Funded Omisore To Kill Bola Ige – Adekojo

- See Story On Pages 11 & 14

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OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 5, 2014

Osun 2014: Ikire Agog For Aregbesola Campaign Train •As Governor Promises Completion Of Ikire, Orile Owu Electrification By KEHINDEAYANTUNJI

if given another chance to govern the state. The governor then appealed to residents of the state to guard their voters’ cards jealously to enable them vote for candidate of their choice in the forthcoming governorship election. He also charged the people to vote and defend their votes on the election day. In his welcome address, the former Chief of Staff to the Governor during Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola’s administration and current Chairman of Local Government Service Commission, Elder Peter Babalola, assured the APC members and supporters that

the people of Irewole, Isokan. and Ayedade Federal Constituency are strongly behind the governor as a result of his performance. He said Aregbesola has raised the bar of governance with infrastructure renewal, functional education and rural development and empowerment of the youth. According to him, “the road to Orile-Owu and Mokore which no one had ever thought would be graded, talk less of reconstruction, but we thank God now, the road has been tarred by the governor and our people in the city and rural areas are very comfortable with the

performance of the governor. “They have no supporter again in Ikire. Their leader here in Ikire, Lere Oyewumi, who was struggling to become the deputy governorship candidate of PDP, lost his polling unit in 2011 and he will also lose it this time around. “During their own time when we were serving together, they failed woefully in service delivery and I wonder what they want to tell the people. They left roads undone, school feeding was more expensive with less quality, but Aregbesola is now providing nutritional meals for the pupils in an unprecedented

HE ancient town of Ikire was agog on Tuesday as the governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, stormed the town for his electioneering campaign in Irewole/Isokan/Ayedade Federal Constituency in preparation for the August 9 governorship election in the state. The campaign rally was education, health, held amidst mammoth crowd infrastructure and of All Progressives agriculture are enough for Congress (APC) and the opposition parties to Aregbesola supporters and see as dividends of sympathisers at St John’s democracy, enjoining the Elementary School, Ikire, electorate not to believe the headquarters of Irewole antics of those that want to Local Government Council govern the state by force. Area of the state He promised to complete Addressing the massive all ongoing projects and crowd, Aregbesola said his embark on new ones that administration has been able would make life more to bring good governance to meaningful for the citizenry bear through his developmental programmes and policies. He said his administration has begun the electrification project, which has been the major problem of the people in the area for long, adding that the project is being run from Ile-Ife to the area. “We are aware that one of the major problems of this area is electricity. We have started the electrification project and we are running it from Ile-Ife to Orile-Owu, Ikire and others. Although, we have provided transformers but we will also provide more transformers. “Also, we are working massively on your water project and if we cannot finish it in the first term, we will finish it during our second term. “We are committed to the progress of our state and progress of the nation, whereas those in the PDP are simply committed to themselves alone. They are selfish and avaricious. “We have nothing at all to do with them and we must make sure that we get rid of •A sea of heads of members and supporters at the All Progressives Congress (APC) 2014 governorship mega rally them completely through Tuesday. votes,” he said. While reflecting on the achievement of his administration in the area, he said his administration had train, and what they expected smooth ride to victory because distributed 2,229 Opon Imo By FRANCIS EZEDIUNO from the governor when he none of the other contestants for pupils in the area, had the pedigree that Ogbeni HE train of the Executive Governor of the State of Osun emerges victorious at the August Aregbesola possesses. embarked on massive road 9th gubernatorial poll. moved again to Ikire Federal Constituency for the construction including She described the governor as As can be imagined with an second lap of the mega campaign rally for the second dualisation of Gbongan/ a dogged fighter, who has event of this magnitude, party Akoda road and Gbongan/ term in office of Ogbeni AbdulRauf Adesoji Aregbesola. stalwarts came out en masse to implemented all the articles of Ikire township was agog and Areas of the state. Orile-Owu/Ijebu-Igbo road. see their gubernatorial choice his six-point integral action plan Indigenes and members of the speak to them one-on-one. He also said that the took on a carnival mode on and had gone on to implement problem of flooding in the Tuesday 3rd of June, 2014 for All Progressives Congress Madam Mariam Ayodele, a programmes that were not even area has been addressed the memorable event. (APC) spread across the wards party member from Ward 1, included in it. through dredging of floodFortunately, the federal and local governments in the Irewole maintained that Ogbeni “That is to show you the prone areas among others. constituency consists of federal constituency, who spoke depth of the knowledge of the According to him, his Irewole, Ayedaade and Isokan with OSUN DEFENDER bared Aregbesola was coming back as person at the helms of affairs in achievements in the areas of Local Government Council their minds on the campaign the governor of the state the State of Osun.

manner,” Bablola said. Interim State Chairman of the APC, Elder Adelowo Adebiyi, said Governor Aregbesola has fulfilled all the promises he made in 2007 and urged the people of the federal constituency to troop out en masse and vote for the governor in August 9, 2014. He said the APC is the only party that can save Nigeria from poverty and hunger, stressing that PDP has failed the people of the state and Nigeria at large, adding that the only patriotic decision Nigerians could take is to vote PDP out of power.

in Ikire, State Of Osun, last

Osun 2014: Ogbeni Aregbesola Assured Of Second Term

Bello Cannot Win His Ward - Adeleke By ISMAEEL UTHMAN ENATOR Isiaka Adeleke of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared that the deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Honourable Adejare Bello, could not win even his ward.

Adeleke, who defected from the PDP to the APC last week, described Bello as an unpopular politician that could not garner votes in any election. Speaking at the campaign rally organised for Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s re-election at St. John’s Primary School, Ikire on Tuesday, Adeleke vowed to deliver both Ede-North and Ede-South Local Government Council areas’ votes for the governor. Adeleke said there is no

politician in the PDP that could win his ward without violence and rigging, charging the people to be vigilant on the election day. The first executive governor of the state also charged the electorate to report anybody that requests for their voters’ cards or its Voter Identification Number (VIN) to the police. He said it is an electoral fraud for anybody to buy or sell voters’ cards, while urging the people not to fall into the

trap of those politicians buying cards from the electorate. Adeleke acknowledged Aregbesola’s achievements, saying that the governor has performed beyond what anybody or party can rubbish. The senator canvassed votes for Aregbesola, telling the APC members to mobilise the electorate and vote for Aregbesola. He said: “I want us to see this election as an important task for everyone of us. To me, I want to kill a fly with a sledge hammer. That is what this coming election is to me. “Aregbesola has transformed Osun and we are happy to see our state developing. What we need to do is to go out en-masse and re-elect him for a second term. He will surely win the election.”

because his credentials spoke for him. According to her, the administration of Ogbeni Aregbesola has touched virtually every area of the state. She mentioned roads, education, free school meals, free health, care of the aged, youth employment as the various areas where the governor had met the needs of the masses of the state. To her, no other person could accomplish such a feat in just three and half years, adding that if not for politics of selfishness, she wondered what people in the opposition had against him both personally, administratively and politically. Madam Adejoke Abdulkareem, a trader and women leader in Isokan Local Government Council Area also said that the choice of the APC in the August 9th polls was a

“We are praying that someday, a good person will come and break his records, just as he is breaking the records of others, but right now, Aregbesola is the one on the throne, so others should just give him space to do his job and also to do it well.” Reverend Matthew Adekoya, who was full of prayers for the success of Ogbeni Aregbesola, said that it was divinely impossible to defeat the governor at the polls, noting that the governor had made the ordinary Osun person to stand tall. According to him: “Some years back, the level of development seen in the state is quite unprecedented”, adding that “Osun has not got there yet, but is surely on the way”. He maintained that with another four years of the current

progressive administration in the state, the socio-economic landscape of the state would definitely assume a different outlook. Adekoya stressed that Osogbo, the state capital and other important towns have assumed a more organised outlook and modernity that have been robbed off the people. Mr. Ajayi Adediran explained that there was no way a champion could be defeated, adding that Aregbesola is the one currently knocking out all his opponents. “Aregbesola is a champion and he has demonstrated that in many aspects. “Point to any aspect of life in Osun and you will see the hands of Ogbeni Aregbesola in it. This is simply because he is the person anointed to lead Osun at this time.” Other respondents called on the electorate to make it a point of duty to vote for Ogbeni Aregbesola and the APC as governor of the state on August 9th, 2014. Amongst the many projects that the state government has embarked on include roads, free school feeding, free school uniforms, care of the aged, free health care in all government hospitals, opon imo tablets, OYES, OYEStech and several others.

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OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 5, 2014

Osun 2014: Aregbesola’s Mega Rally Enlivens Ikire By SHINAABUBAKAR

HE town of Ikire on Tuesday became lively as members and supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Ikire Federal Constituency comprising Irewole, Ayedaade and Isokan Local Government Council areas stormed the town for its mega rally for the second term campaign of Governor Rauf Aregbesola of the State of Osun. Residents of the town The Kobo-Sango thronged the major roads Junction end of the road was leading to the St. John jam-packed with traffic, as Anglican Elementary vehicles could only school, venue of the rally. manoeuvre their ways As early as 10.00am, party through to the venue. loyalists began to troop out The venue of the rally to the venue in anticipation was filled to capacity at of party leaders, who about 12.00 noon, as several thronged the venue to show groups competed for solidarity for the governor’s recognition, while dressed re-election bid. in various uniforms.

OSUN DEFENDER observed on entering the town that a particular Ankara was chosen for the rally, as youths, elders, men and women dressed in the same Aso-Ebi. Similarly, the Oja-Ale area of the community was a beehive of activities, as some elderly people, who could not cope with the stress at the venue, were seen seated under canopies and were being entertained by several musicians. Speakers after speakers at the rally charged the electorate in the state to come out en masse on August 9 this year and vote for Aregbesola for another four years in office.

The Chairman of Irewole Local Government Council Area, Honourable Soji Ajayi, disclosed that the people of the three council areas constituting the federal constituency are in support of the governor’s reelection bid, promising that they would vote and defend their votes during the poll. Nollywood actors and musicians were not left out of the rally, as some of them, led by Toyin Adegbola and Saheed Balogun, added glamour and glitz to the rally. Similarly, Tony Tetula led other musicians to the venue and entertained people at the rally. As Governor Rauf

Aregbesola arrived the venue, swamps of brooms were dancing in the air, welcoming the governor into the rally ground, who was accompanied by some national party leaders. A party chieftain in the state, Alhaji Fatai Oyedele Diekola, while addressing the crowd, disclosed that Governor Aregbesola is not just seeking second term in office, but seeking the support of the people of the state towards making Osun a pride for indigenes at home and in the diaspora. He urged the people not to be afraid of anyone that might be attempting to

intimidate or harass them before or during the polls, charging everyone in the federal constituency to come out and vote en masse for Aregbesola come August 9, 2014. Diekola disclosed that the APC-led administration in the state has delivered on its 2007 electioneering campaign promises and should be re-elected for another four years to further make Osun proud. The appearance of Senator Isiaka Adeleke, who recently defected to the APC, attracted attention of the party loyalists at the venue, who were elated by his presence.

Omisore’s Man Enjoys Aregbesola's Foreign Scholarship

HERE was pin drop silence at the Banquet Hall of State of Osun Government House, venue of a send-off ceremony for 31 successful engineers who are indigenes of the state last Monday drawn from across the state for a two-month mechatronics training in Germany, when one of the beneficiaries confessed being a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who had worked against the political aspiration of the state Governor Rauf Aregbesola. The beneficiary, Mr Aregbesola genuinely meant Gbenga Oladimeji, who said well for the state and the he was a former youths’ co- people. He explained that with the ordinator of Omisore opportunity given to him to Campaign Organisation in a ward in Iwo Local add to his knowledge in Government Council, while Germany, Aregbesola has his mother was a PDP taken away a cutlass from him Women Ward Leader and replaced it with a means disclosed that the of livelihood. The beneficiary said the opportunity given to him, regardless of his party day he told his father that Aregbesola had given him a •(R-L) Director, South-West Zone of NBC, Mrs Ngozi Otonekwu; Commissioner for Information and Strategy, State of affiliation to travel to scholarship to train further in Germany, has made him to Osun, Hon. Sunday Akere; representative of DG (IPCR) and INEC Representative, Dr. Anyanwu during a seminar on confirm that Governor Germany, his father broke Conflict And Sensitive Reporting during election at Royal Birds Motel Akure, Ondo State, recently. down in tears, adding that “my father instantly instructed my mother to desist from being a member the governor of 100 per cent of the PDP any longer”. Executive Secretary, Irewole The Oranmiyan Group had support from the people of the His words: “Immediately it By ISMAEEL UTHMAN a unique display at the Local Government Prince area. Olusoji Ajayi, said Aregbesola became a reality that I had campaign rally, as its members Akinleye maintained that HE campaign train of Governor Rauf Aregbesola moved merited a second term because Aregbesola’s achievements are been considered for the down to Ikire Federal Constituency on Tuesday in a matched into the venue with he has performed well. their flags flying and the group’s grand style with warm reception from the people. According to Ajayi, the more than enough to secure a Germany trip, my father Kampala uniform. massive crowd that welcomed second term for him, stating started to shed tears of joy Aregbesola is the joyfully displayed their brooms Aregbesola’s arrival hit the Aregbesola to the campaign that Osun has never been and promptly instructed my governorship candidate of the and APC flags. campaign ground like a ground was a confirmation that touched positively like the mother not to have anything All Progressives Congress From the Akire’s palace and thunderbolt, as the anxiously governor has done in his first (APC) seeking a second term in Isokan axis of Ikire, there was waiting crowd struggled to Irewole, Isokan and Ayedaade term. doing with the PDP under his Federal Constituency is solidly the state. catch a glimpse of the governor. heavy traffic gridlock on all the In his own remarks, roof any longer. The constituency comprises roads leading to the campaign Aregbesola arrived the rally in support of Aregbesola’s Evangelist Nathaniel Arabambi, “Because I am lettered, I second term. Irewole, Isokan and Ayedaade ground. ground in company of Elder The Executive Secretary of the Executive Secretary, was once the youths’ coLocal Government Council The crowd at the St John’s Peter Babalola and the first Ayedaade Local Government, areas, with Ikire being the Primary School, opposite executive governor of the state, Isokan Local Government charged the electorate to troop ordinator of Omisore headquarters. Ayedaade Grammar School was Alhaji Isiaka Adeleke, who Council Area, Alhaji Azeez out en-masse and vote for Campaign Organisation in Thousands of Aregbesola’s thrilling, intimidating, massive defected to the APC last week. Akinleye, in an interview with Aregbesola and as well stand our ward, while my mother supporters had converged at and impressive. Speaking at the rally, OSUN DEFENDER, assured by their votes. was the PDP Women Leader Unity Grammar School in our ward in Iwo Local junction, an entrance to Ikire, venue of the programme, to Government Council Area. I welcome the governor to the decided to embrace the PDP town. because I thought I would be The supporters, who were in given job. For over five years, Oranmiyan-Kanpala attire, it was promises upon Aregbesola’s campaign T-Shirts By KEHINDEAYANTUNJI Ogbeni Aregbesola, who National Automotive Council promises. and other campaign clothes using part of its Auto were very anxious to welcome “But today, my story has OVERNOR of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf pointed out that the manual for Development Fund Loan the governor. Aregbesola, has stated that Nigeria is a poor nation the training institute will be Scheme domiciled with the changed for better through made in the local language for Amidst fanfare, excitement because the productivity of an average Nigerian cannot the visionary administration the purpose of easy Bank of Industry (BOI). and political zeal, the service their individual debt. The Special Adviser to the of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, supporters led Aregbesola’s understanding by the local Aregbesola stated this on Nigerians. convoy from the expressway mechanics, announced that the Governor on Federal Matters, who gave me a scholarship The governor said the institute will be followed by the who is also the Chairperson of through the Naira and Kobo Monday in Osogbo while without taking into Junction to the Akire’s Palace, addressing the 31 young Osun institute, which is the first in building of automobile villages, the Mechatronics Institute where Aregbesola paid homage Engineers, who were selected to the country, will go a long way which will have the capacity to Committee, Honourable Idiat consideration my political Babalola, stated that the leaning before now.” to the Akire of ikire, Oba embark on a training programme in boosting the economy of the build vehicles. in Germany for the purpose of state and serve as a means of Talabi. "I saw an advertisement The state’s helmsman stated governor decided to create the Aregbesola’s campaign the Bola Ige Mechatronics empowering the Osun youths. that the institute was named institute as a result of his in OSUN DEFENDER received royal blessings, as the Institute to be sited at the He noted that the 31 youths after the late Bola Ige because determination to develop the newspaper and I was traditional ruler prayed and premises of the Osun State selected for the two-month of the love he had for people of Osun, especially the considered after series of declared support for the College of Technology, Esa-Oke. training programme in Germany technology, noting that the late youths. governor, who he described as a Ogbeni Aregbesola held that will serve as trainers for the local Ige represented everything She described the gesture to interviews on merit. I did not progressive politician. the Automobile Mechatronic roadside mechanics, who he establish the mechatronics lobby anybody, as I didn't Right from Gbongan and Institute became necessary described as the highest technology means. village as means to further know anybody in the Aregbesola explained that Waasinmi expressway, the shout because the capacity to beneficiaries of the mechatronic empower the youths of Osun, government. Ogbeni of “Aregbesola for second term; maintain an automobile in the institute, because cars of today over N1 billion committed for so that they can become Aregbesola is simply great, the project is an intervention Rauf 2014, APC” from country is so low despite the are now built with modern-day soft loan provision by the entrepreneurs and make a living he said. commuters going to the rally technologies.

Ikire Stands Still For Aregbesola T

Low Productivity Responsible For Poverty In Nigeria •Osun Govt Sponsors 31 Engineers To Germany

rented the air, just as they

high demand for cars by

for themselves.

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OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 5, 2014

UNICEF In Coordination Mechanism For Implementing Child Rights Law By SOLA JACOBS

NITED Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has involved itself in coordination mechanism with the State of Osun Ministry of Women and Children’s Affairs in implementing the child rights law in the state. UNICEF Consultant to stakeholders. Dr. Nazarali described the Nigeria, Dr. Laila Nazarali, disclosed the interest of the project as a 5-year justice organisation to the ministry at project to be implemented in a technical meeting, which 10 states in Nigeria; FCT, involved the ministry, the State Benue, Katsina, Yobe, Lagos, of Osun Judiciary, Child Osun, Bayelsa, Imo, Cross Protection Network and other River and Anambra States.

Emphasizing the need for coordination mechanism between the state and UNICEF in order to protect the rights of the child, she stated that the states were selected based on the states’ level of implementing the child rights law. She encouraged the ministry to work closely with the family court, where issues/cases concerning children are mostly treated. The UNICEF consultant advocated that a stop be put

to a child between the ages of 14 and 17 being detained at adult prisons, but instead they should be put in remand homes. The Special Adviser to the Governor on Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, Barrister (Mrs) Funmilayo Esho-Williams, in her response, stated that 300 children cases have been treated to date in the last four years by the ministry through the remand home and family court. She stated that for the child

rights law to be more meaningful in the state, it will be translated into the local language, so that people at the rural level, who are yet to keyin to the child rights law and other stakeholders like traditional rulers can understand it. Highlighting causes of children’s misbehaviour to separated/divorced parents, neglect, poor family background, poverty, being in the care of aged parents, among others, she urged members of the public to report to the ministry any issue that needs the attention of the government, and that schools, homes and the society at large should note that the child rights law is alive and existing and should not be abused. Similarly, Justice Oyejide Falola, speaking from the angle of justice, emphasized that more family courts, as well as more social workers for

supervisions are needed in the state, as this will help the police in treating and handling issues/cases relating to children. Admonishing that the police needs to be sensitized on their role in handling children cases, he urged the police to work with the ministry and the legal representative attached to the ministry and that the ministry should monitor and interact with the management of the customary court, so as to work on cases within their jurisdictions. Justice Falola also suggested that the child rights law be introduced as part of social studies subject treated by primary school students, and part of civic studies treated as a subject by secondary school students and that there is need for information about the implementation of the child rights law to be spread to the general public.

Aregbesola Inaugurates Central Campaign Committee By KEHINDEAYANTUNJI

OVERNOR of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has inaugurated a 20-man Central Campaign Committee headed by Senator Olusola Adeyeye to take charge of the campaign of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the August 9 governorship election in the state.

•Najeem Salaam; Secretary to the State Government of Osun, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti and Mr Ayo Afolabi at the APC mega rally in Ikire, State of Osun, last Tuesday.

Osun NCP Joins Guber Race T By ISMAEEL UTHMAN

HE National Conscience Party (NCP) has joined the race for the August 09, 2014 gubernatorial election in the State of Osun. The NCP presented its “We shall not only be candidate to contest the accountable, but also election with other candidates, responsive to the people’s among who is the incumbent plight. NCP remains Governor Rauf Aregbesola of committed to the development the All Progressives Congress of the state and dedicated to (APC). the improvement of their living The NCP presented a standard. banker, Comrade Olanreware Afolayanka also expressed Afolayanka, who hails from his gratitude to the leadership Iree in Boripe Local of the party for the confidence Government Council Area of reposed in him, promising that the state. he won’t let them down. Speaking after the Speaking at the party governorship primaries of the convention held at NUJ Press party on Monday, Afolayanka Centre, Osogbo, the National expressed his optimism in Chairman of the party, Dr. winning the gubernatorial Yunusa Tanko, who spoke election. through Comrade Ayodele Afolayanka, who Akele, the National Secretary commended the delegates of of the party, called on the the party for electing him to people of the state to embrace fly the flag of the NCP in the NCP and support its governorship election, vowed candidate. to implement the manifestoes Tanko said NCP is the only of the party to the letter if he party that can deliver dividends won the election. of democracy without inflicting Afolayanka said: “The pains on the populace. vision of our party as stated in In his own speech, the its motto is Abolition of South-West Deputy National Poverty. I want to assure you Chairman of the party, Alhaji that if we win the election, our Waheed Lawal, said the NCP government would not deviate has been fighting for better from this vision by the grace Nigeria for over 20 years. of God. According to Lawal, the “We shall alleviate poverty, NCP was formed by the late banish hunger and empower human rights icon, Chief Gani our youths. We shall remain Fawehinmi, to create a platform consciously dogged in the for individuals that have pursuit of the vision. genuine interest in developing “No doubt, our dear state the country and rescue it from has changed for good. There is the usurpers. development in all parts of the Lawal maintained that the state. But the best is yet to NCP, if voted into power, come. The NCP has better would take the well-being of programmes that would the commoners and human develop the state without en- development as priority in line burdening the people. with the vision of the party. “The NCP has peopleThe NCP boss, who handed friendly programmes that will over the party flag to transform the state to an Afolayanka, promised that the economic centre of the South- party would not disappoint the West. The NCP is the people if it won the harbinger of peace, stability governoship election. and economic development. In his remarks, the State

Chairman of the NCP, Mr. Gideon Fasorepo, said Afolayanka emerged as the flagbearer of the party, having duly-fulfilled nomination processes. Fasorepo said the NCP government would be opened

to all the residents of the state, irrespective of tribe, religion, gender, economic and social status. He submitted that the party was committed to people’s welfare and development of the state.

Aregbesola, at the formal inauguration held at the Banquet Hall of the Government House, Osogbo, the state capital, stated that the party is determined to continue in the positive strides of developing the state. He held that the governorship election should be taken seriously, so as to lead the black race to the promised land, which according to him, can start from the State of Osun. Aregbesola stressed that it is the vision of the All Progressives Congress to take the Yoruba race to a very great height as envisioned by the late

Osun CJ Distributes Cars To HODs

HE joy of five heads of department in the state of Osun High Court of Justice on Friday 30th of May, 2014, knew no bound, as the State Chief Judge, Justice Oyebola Adepele Ojo, presented five Toyota Camry salon cars as official cars to each of them. Presenting the keys of the that their own time will soon cars to the beneficiaries on come. behalf of the Chief Judge, the Speaking on behalf of the Chief Registrar, Mr Ayo beneficiaries, the Principal Oyebiyi, said the gesture was Registrar, Maintenance to assist them to enhance their Department, Elder Taiwo Jacob performance. Adeniyi, who could not hide his Oyebiyi charged the HODs joy, appreciated the State Chief to be more dedicated and loyal Judge, and the management of to the management of the state the High Court for counting high court in the discharge of them worthy, saying that it was their duties. the first time in the history of He advised those that are yet the High Court that new official to benefit from the gesture to cars would be handed to heads continue to work harder, saying of various departments.

He then assured the management of their continuous hard work and unalloyed loyalty. The beneficiaries are: PR (Administration), Mr M. O. Atanda, PR (Litigation), Mrs E. O. Olawuni, PR (Maintenance), Elder Taiwo Jacob Adeniyi, PR (Probate), Mr Olusayo Adeosun and PR (Establishment) Mr Oluwole Adebisi. Present at the presentation included the Deputy Chief Registrar 1, Mr L. O. Arojo, Deputy Chief Registrar 2, Mr A. A. Makanjuola and other sectional heads of various units.

ERCAAN Supports Aregbesola For Second Term By SOLA JACOBS

OVERNOR Rauf Aregbesola of the State of Osun has re-assured the people of the state of his administration’s determination to spread the developmental programmes across the all the nooks and crannies of the state. He stated this while speaking administration’s programmes through an address delivered at and policies, adding that this the solidarity rally by the will enable him to do more for Estate Rent and Commission the entire people of the state, Aregbesosa, who observed Agents Association of Nigeria, State of Osun chapter the deplorable condition of (ERCAAN) in support of his infrastructure in the state when present administration came second term ambition and Award the board in 2010, said presently, of Excellence as Life Patron of on the state has the highest Gross the association, held at Mandela Domestic product(GDP),which Freedom Park in Osogbo.. is second to that of Lagos State, Governor Aregbesola was and lowest rate of represented on the occasion by unemployment in the country his deputy, Otunba (Mrs) with good network of roads Titilayo Laoye-Tomori, while across the state. appreciating the association for He noted that more than 500 their trust in his ancient inhabitant cities, was

located in the state, which his government has resolved to develop and meet the yearnings and expectations of the people of the state. He therefore enjoined them to come out and vote massively for the continuity of his administration during the August 9th gubernatorial election, to enable him complete all the ongoing developmental projects in the state. Earlier in his welcome address, the State Chairman of ERCAAN, Pastor Gabriel Kolawole Taiwo, had assured the governor of the association’s support in the coming gubernatorial election in the state, due to massive developmental projects his government has achieved in the last three and half years of its existence.

Chief Obafemi Awolowo among others. The governor added that his administration had always dreamt to build a society that will give the people good life in a way that will bring about fulfilment in all their endeavours. While charging the committee to work tirelessly to ensure that the party wins the August 9 election, Ogbeni expressed confidence in the Senator Sola Adeyeye-headed committee, saying the members are the best and would not expect anything less from them. The governor also urged them to constitute a security committee that will ensure adequate security before, during and after the elections, as well as an operational unit, so as to come up with the best campaign to have the best result. Speaking after the inauguration, Chairman of the committee, Senator Adeyeye, assured the governor of a landslide victory in the coming election. He described Aregbesola as a good product which does not need any advertisement and stressed that the committee will work tirelessly for the victory of the party in the election. Other members of the committee include: Prof. Jimoh Ayoade as the Secretary, Senator Bayo Salami, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Honourable Najeem Salam, Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola and Elder Peter Babalola. The committee also comprises three state commissioners and members of the State House of Assembly. The Commissioners are: Finance, Budget and Planning, Dr. Wale Bolorunduro; Information and Strategy, Mr. Sunday Akere and Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barrister Kolapo Alimi. Others are Honourables Bamisayemi Oladoyin, Timothy Owoeye, Femi Kujenbola, Akinloye Ajibola, Alagbada Isiak, Biyi Odunlade, Comrade Poju Odusola, Obawale Adebisi, Alhaji Sule Alao, and Mr. Bosun Oyintiloye

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 5, 2014

Aregbesola: A rash of endorsement Continued from pg1

Also, Osun indigenes in the Diaspora are not left behind in adding their voices from afar to that of the millions at home to the call for 'Aregbe for second term'. Everyday the bell rings. The message echoes even beyond the shores of our land. The message is clear; 'here is a man who has done well, who has kept to his promises; so since he has the constitutional right to go for another term then we must support him again'. The above message is on the lips of majority of the people in the state. It's the song coming out from the mouths of all categories of people; the old ones, the youth, the children, workers,

students, artisans, transporters, free borns, emigrants etcetera. One fact that is deducible from this rash of endorsement is that the people are satisfied with Aregbesola's job in the state so far. The Governor, unlike other unreliable politicians, has not reneged on his electioneering campaign promises as he has kept to his words to the letter even in spite of the monetary challenges facing him. Thus for the people of the state, the coming election is a pay back period; an opportunity for them to appreciate Ogbeni Aregbesola for having brought dividends of democracy to the doorstep of the people. Like an axiom which says 'one good tune deserves another' so for Ogbeni Aregbesola and its can-do administration it's one good term deserves another as obtained in political parlance. To those who are aware of the

level of development that has taken place in Aregbesola's state of Osun it's no surprise that the Governor is being endorsed left, right and centre. Of course it shouldn't be less for him given his stellar performance within a period of four years. That Aregbesola has performed even beyond the expectations of many he has been able to warm himself into the hearts of millions of people in the state. No doubt when our people see good things they appreciate it. So on this score all these endorsements are not just coming. They are not being sponsored. Neither are they sycophantic. They are born out of the reality on ground in terms of the unprecedented feats Ogbeni Aregbesola has been able to achieve during his tenure so far. In fact, we join others in saying kudos to him. By implication all these endorse-

APC’s Nationwide Spread – Life Abundant For All!

EMEMBER that I wrote to you on a similar topic earlier this year. This second letter is for the purpose of emphasis – at least to drive my points home. Events unfolding since the first letter have judged me right. The all progressive Congress (APC) has since been expanding in size, composition, geographical spread and dominance. These developments are indicative of good electoral outings now and henceforth. For once, Nigeria can rest and be assured that people-oriented service would circulate round the length and breadth of their nation. I’m the gladdest for it! Thank God for this emerging opportunity. I also appreciate the privilege to have my opinions aired in your highly reputable and widely-read newspaper. I wish to commend your noble efforts in the past; while admonishing you to carry on undeterred in your fight at wrestling our people free from the fangs of intellectual and ideological enslavement. Some of us out here recognize and appreciate the weight of your selfless service to our state and the nation at large. I only wish to express my sincere hope that my choice of your medium is not misplaced as I nurse no doubts in my mind that you will find a space for its publication, and soonest too. For some time now, I have kept under close observation the

trend of events and happenings in the political circles of our nation and truly, there has been a particular trend which I personally find most attractive and quite interesting. The trend has been unfolding in phases, like a programmes sequence. First was the metamorphosing of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), alongside some other three or four former political parties into a mega political party in the name of All Progressive Congress (APC). This massive merger cum transformation and pooling of

ideas and ideologies alone came as the single wonder of the modern political terrain of Nigeria; as the hitherto prided political enclave, which had enslaved the people and their collective prospects of accessing good living conditions is manifestation to answered prayers. At last, the prayers and pleas of the masses had reached the highest heavens and God has given His assent to them. At last, it is obvious that our foisted captors are about to lose their vicious grip of their “empire”.

In actual fact, the development seemed to me the triumph of the masses of Nigeria. As if the foregoing was not enough, we began to witness wonders as various political groups, apparently considered incompatible decided to bury their differences and unite to chart one common cause for the forward-movement of the nation and snatching it from the above-referred-to vicious grip. I honestly confess that it took divine intervention for some of the sub-groups in the alliance we now have on ground to have

jettisoned their strongly-held distinct political viewpoints and get them lost in the common will to rescue the poor masses from their tormentors. No sooner these feats were recorded than we saw the giant oppressor and self-prided largest political party in Africa, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP )melting and crumbling under the huge pressure and fierce force of change which the nation Nigeria, at its best must witness at this stage of its nationhood. I have come across o horde of

pessimists who predicted the wave of change as not destined to last. Another cross-section of pessimists viewed the success of the trend impossible. I married these two similar schools of thought together and filtered them out to a conclusion that both of them were hinged on an erroneous conviction that the former ruling party was far stronger than any collection of parties could unseat. This thought is as foolish as daring the omnipotence of God. Today, we have seen how far and well the various players have gone in the alliance. Not only this, we are seeing how the new group is gaining weight and enlargement, not minding inhibitions and hindrances. We have seen how various political office holders across various party convictions and across various arms of government dump their old associations for the new alliance. We, in short are viewing with pride from the horizons a brighter Nigeria; with promise of better, more peopleoriented governance for the entire country. As the good drama continues to unfold, I pray that the bond of the new-found alliance wax stronger, so that we for once in Nigeria could witness on nationwide scope god governance and the life of abundance it engenders. Long live Nigeria! •LAYI ODETOLA, Taiwo Road, Offa, Kwara State.

ments for Ogbeni are pointing to one fact; that no Jupiter can stop him from winning the coming election. The people are already speaking and as we know, the voice of the people is the voice of God. Baring any electoral 'magomago' (malpractices)the handwriting is already on the wall apropos direction to which the pendulum of victory will swing in the much awaited election. And God forbids, never again can reactionary politicians succeed in their anti-democratic plans to come to power through the back doors. Surely, the victory is for Ogbeni Aregbesola in the coming election. His victory is important to us as stake-holders in the development of our state just as it's important to all lovers of development. We need him to continue for another four years all this good work. We cannot afford to miss his valuable contribution to humanity now.

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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

FEATURE

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 5, 2014

Adeleke Berthes In APC State was WHEN Osun created in 1991, little did we know, that an Omoluabi, in person of Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, would be his first Executive Governor. He ran the state for good twenty months as an Omoluabi would, and left his own indelible marks behind, not knowing, that the erstwhile State of the Living Spring, would be re-branded as a State of Omoluabi. Senator Adeleke as a bornOmoluabi, embodies all good values of Omoluabi in words and deeds, and is so recognized by his peers, subordinates, associates and the elders. Well-nurtured and goodnatured in his spiritual life, education, family reputation and professional callings. Otunba Adekele is of gentle disposition to life, harmless, easily reachable and never one to shun anybody on account of his or her class. He finds love and satisfaction, living among his native Osun people, since he left office as governor in 1993. He is not one of those who relocates abroad or to Abuja or Lagos permanently, and leave their people to suffer, whenever the political climate changes. His sojourn in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was eventful in so many respects. He stood with the party solidly like the Rock of Gibraltar and contributed to its good fortunes, as far as electoral gains were concerned, particularly, in the 2011 presidential; election, when he ensured, that his stronghold of Ede North, Ede South and Egbedore Local Government Council areas were delivered to President Goodluck Jonathan. That feat, which was performed only by him, while other PDP so-called heavyweights fell by the wayside, remains a reference point. But rather than appreciate his tremendous support for the PDP, President Jonathan and other top PDP functionaries at Wadata Plaza, had left him in the cold in the past three and a half years. Even at that, Otunba Adeleke kept his cool, until the unexpected happened on April 3, 2014, when he was treated like any ordinary politician by his fellow party men in the PDP. There and then, the die was cast. As the saying goes, once a host is showing irritation to his guest, it suggests the welcome is over. Senator Adeleke knew the music was over. Senator Adeleke, after sifting and weighing, coupled with very wide consultations among family members, friends, political associates and prayer sessions, honourably decided to pitch his tent with the All Progressives Congress (APC), not for selfish personal gains, but rather, to marshal efforts with others, who are progressive-minded in taking the State of Osun to greater heights and indeed Nigeria. After all, he became Osun governor under a progressive

•ADELEKE By OLUMIDE LAWAL

party called SDP. He is again in a familiar terrain. Adeleke, it should be emphasised, arrived at this conclusion in order to prove, that whichever political party he pitches his tent with, he is capable of making waves and be of immense advantage to it. The first executive governor of Osun State is not a political opportunist. He cares about the welfare of his teeming supporters and will never abandon the just cause of life more abundant for all, even at great inconvenience to himself. He is bringing his wealth of experience to the APC to improve the lot of the ordinary people. Adeleke, it must be strenuously pointed out, is not coming into the APC to lord it over anybody or group of people, as far as seeking political posts are concerned. He believes; “any of those following him into the APC and wishing to seek elective offices, should be ready to sludge it out with other contenders, as there is no free meal in America. They must work for the APC and prove their mettle, as they did in the PDP,” he stressed. As a true democrat, Adeleke was of the conviction, that though, there may be difference in political callings right now, he will still maintain affinity

across his way. If at the age of 35, he was able to venture into the murky water of politics in a state, as politically volatile as old Oyo State, without cutting comers or leaning on any heavyweight to emerge as the first executive governor of Osun State, why should he now, as a respected elder statesman get involved in the socalled political romance with the APC before now, when he took the honourable path of joining the party to advance his political career without let or hindrance in an atmosphere of conviviality. In his many utterances, Senator Adeleke has left no one in doubt about his passion for education. For him, Socrates’ Maxim: There is only one good-knowledge and no one evil-ignorance applies to the Nigerian context. There is so much ignorance that all developmental gains of the pre and post-Independence era had been washed down the drain on the altar of mediocrity which some people would rather celebrate to the detriment of future generations. Senator Adeleke sees education as the bedrock of development, hence the impressive investment of the Adeleke family in tertiary education embedded in the State of Osun to make it available, accessible and relevant to the manpower needs of the nation with the establishment of Adeleke University in his home-stead, Ede. Senator Adeleke is not forcing any or some of his supporters to follow him to the APC as a school of thought would want the world to believe. and cordiality with his friends in the Rather, those who took the decision PDP, as they are still of great to pitch tent with him in the APC, did reckoning to him, advising, that they so on their own volition, which was should also regard and treat him as spontaneous too. The amiable senator their friend forever. He said, there pointedly told his former co-travellers would always be a meeting point in the PDP, who so wish to remain going by the Maxim: no permanent there, to feel free to do so and bring friend or enemy in politics, but their own gains to their people, since permanent interest. politics is about selfless service to the The wrong notion making the round down-trooden common people. He in some ill-informed circle, that believes, that everybody should hold Adeleke before now has been his or her own destiny firmly in his fraternising with the APC and was hands and leave the rest to God. been used to destabilise the PDP As a man of peace, Senator should be corrected. This is far from Adeleke has enjoined his teeming the truth. Adeleke, up till the event of supporters to continue to embrace April 3, 2014, when he was assaulted non-violence approach to politics and by some top notchers of the PDP, never to engage in any acrimonious was body and soul, a functional PDP activities, that may taint his political man; strongly committed to its causes. achievements painstakingly built over But, he was not prepared to dance on the years, in their interactions with with a political party, where his other APC members. According to precious life was almost put on the Adeleke; “jointly we shall succeed” line on the fateful April 3, 2014. as there is enough to go round all and Nothing could have prompted sundry. Senator Adeleke to engage in doubleAnd so the ‘golden boy’ of Osun dealing in his political career, before, politics berthes in All Progressive now or in the future. He, it should be Congress to the glory of God and recollected, had carved a niche for continued unassailable services to himself politically and in the business mankind. world, though he continues to show modesty in his life style over the •LAWAL is the Media Adviser to years. If he so decides to take a Senator Adeleke. break from politics, Asiwaju Adeleke will continue to impact tremendously on the lives of those who may come

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 5, 2014

PHOTOTALK

All Progressives Congress (APC) Mega Rally For Isokan, Ayedaade, Irewole Federal Constituency For Re-election Of State Of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Photo: GBENGAADENIYI, SHOLAADERINTO Aregbesola, Held In Ikire, On Tuesday. AND ABRAHAM JESUDOYIN.

•(L-R) Speaker, State of Osun House of Assembly, Honourable Najeem Salaam; first governor in the State of Osun, Senator Isiaka Adeleke; Governor, State of Osun, Ogebni Rauf Aregbesola and his wife, Sherifat at the Ikire Mega Rally.

•A mammoth crowd during the campaign.

PHOTOTALK

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 5, 2014

All Progressives Congress (APC) Mega Rally For Isokan, Ayedaade, Irewole Federal Constituency For Re-election Of State Of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Photo: GBENGAADENIYI, SHOLAADERINTOANDABRAHAM JESUDOYIN. Held In Ikire, On Tuesday.

•A mammoth crowd during Governor Aregbesola’s Re-election mega rally at Irewole/Ayedaade/Isokan Federal Constituency, Ikire, State of Osun on Tuesday. Inset: From left, Speaker, State House of Assembly of Osun, Honourable Najeem Salam; first civilian governor of the state, Senator Isiaka Adeleke; Governor Rauf Aregbesola and his wife, Sherifat at the event.

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•Ecstatic APC supporters at the rally.

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 5, 2014

PHOTOTALK

•Governor Rauf Aregbesola, acknowledging cheers from his numerous admirers at the Ikire mega rally.

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•A cross section of traditional chiefs at the Akire’s Palace when Governor Aregbesola paid homage to the Akire before the rally.

PHOTOTALK

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 5, 2014

All Progressives Congress (APC) Mega Rally For Isokan, Ayedaade, Irewole Federal Constituency For Re-election Of State Of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Held In Ikire, On Tuesday. Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI, SHOLA ADERINTO AND ABRAHAM JESUDOYIN.

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•Governor Aregbesola (right in glasses) in a joyous disposition towards the massive crowd at the mega-rally.

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•Mammoth Crowd at Governor Aregbesola’s Re-election Campaign at Irewole/Ayedaade/Isokan Federal Constituency, Ikire, State of Osun on Tuesday. INSET: From left, First civilian governor of the state, Senator Isiaka Adeleke; Governor Rauf Aregbesola; his wife, Sherifat and member, House of Representatives, Honourable Ayo Omidiran, at the rally .

INTERVIEW

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 5, 2014

How PDP Funded Omisore To Kill Bola Ige – Adekojo Alhaji Musbaaudeen Adekojo was former Coordinator of Campaign for Democracy and National Chairman of Disciplinary and Arbitration Committee of Alliance for Democracy (AD). He explained the circumstances that surrounded the assasination of the former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Chief Bola Ige, and the involvement of Senator Iyiola Omisore in this Interview with KEHINDE AYANTUNJI. Excerpts:OSDF: What is your involvement in the crisis that rocked Osun chapter of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) in Year 2001? ADEKOJO: Since the time of the old Oyo State, I have been an active participant in progressive politics, first as the Organising Secretary of defunct Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) and later Political Secretary to our great leader, Chief Bola Ige, while he was the governor of Old Oyo State. In 1999, when we transformed into the Alliance for Democracy (AD), the party resolved to put in place a disciplinary machinery to checkmate erring members of the party and I was considered to head the Disciplinary and Arbitration Committee across the nation, first in acting capacity and later, I was confirmed as the substantive chairman of the committee. Osun was the state where we witnessed a very tough and ridiculous crisis throughout the history of AD. The crisis reached its peak in 2000, when the then Deputy Governor, Otunba Iyiola Omisore, organized various groups in the party and among the State House of Assembly members to initiate impeachment process against the then governor, Chief Adebisi Akande. When it was obvious that Omisore’s groups have lost all senses of sanity by initiating various litigations against the party and the governor and at the same time organizing various groups to disrupt government programmes and party activities, the then party chairman, Chief Olajire Aikulola, formally complained to my committee after various efforts to curtail the excesses of Omisore and his groups in destroying the government and the party failed. He wrote my committee and we invited all the concerned parties. During our interaction, we observed that Omisore was so desperate to become the governor and during a meeting at Nicon Hilton Hotel, Abuja, I strongly advised Omisore to allow Governor Bisi Akande, who was performing excellently that time, to allow him complete his two terms and contest if he so wished, convincing him that what we needed mostly that time was the development of the state that had been destroyed by the long stay of the military. I told him to cooperate with a man of honesty, a man of integrity, who loves him, cooperate with a man that was advised by the party hierarchy to deal with you and refused to deal with you. That Year 2007 will soon come and you will have your time. I never knew that he had already made up his mind and concluded his plan to contest for the governorship seat. It was later that I got series of complaints from Osun that he was unyielding. He

continued causing serious crisis by using money and force to impeach the governor. He infiltrated the House of Assembly, which led to a division. The crisis took most of my time. At times, I would meet Omisore in Ile-Ife, or in Abuja to resolve the crisis. After he failed in his impeachment bid, he moved to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). It was that time we knew that the PDP gave him serious assignment to destabilise the AD with a promise that he would be supported to realize his ambition in the PDP. We confronted him with the allegations, he was unable to deny and he offered a negotiation that if we wanted him to stop the crisis, we should prevail on Chief Bisi Akande to concede the AD governorship ticket to him in 2003 and I told him it was impossible. Governor Akande was performing and no reasonable party like AD will stop such governor from recontesting, but he was just so desperate to become the governor by hook and crook. On 12th of December, 2001, I got a letter from the state secretariat of AD signed by the Chairman, Chief Olajire Aikulola, which contained serious allegations against Omisore. Omisore and his group also made false allegation against party members that they wanted to poison them, which was later discovered to be a frame-up. They also accused Chief Bisi Akande of attempting to poison them, and secondly they filed a litigation against the state governor on behalf of the state executives members of the party at a Federal High Court in Ibadan, whereas there was nowhere the state executives discussed such matter. Omisore and others falsified the consent of the state executives, which caused serious embarrassment to the party. The third allegation was that they constituted parallel party executives in all the ward and encouraged

•ADEKOJO

disobedience and undermining the party authority with intent to distabilise the party. The fourth allegation was that they held meetings with leadership of the PDP with the intent to present Omisore as 2003 gubernatorial candidate of the PDP. As at then, he was still a card-carrying member of AD. They also alleged that Omisore groups were planning to put AD into disrepute, as they were also planning unrest in the party by eliminating some leaders. They were also alleged to have been heavily funded by the PDP. The party state executive, in line with Article 16, rules 3 and 4 of the party, then suspended Otunba Iyiola Omisore, Jelili Adesiyan, Kunle Alao and four others indefinitely. The terrible aspect of the allegation was that they were planning to eliminate our leader, Chief Bola Ige, the then Governor Bisi Akande, the Secretary to the State Government, Engineer Sola Akinwumi, the then Commissioner for Finance, Lere Adebayo, and then Commissioner for Works, Barrister Niyi Owolade.

“During our interaction, we observed that Omisore was so desperate to become the governor and during a meeting at Nicon Hilton Hotel, Abuja, I strongly advised Omisore to allow Governor Bisi Akande, who was performing excellently that time, to allow him complete his two terms and contest if he so wished, convincing him that what we needed mostly that time was the development of the state that had been destroyed by the long stay of the military. I told him to cooperate with a man of honesty, a man of integrity, who loves him, cooperate with a man that was advised by the party hierarchy to deal with you and refused to deal with you.”

When we investigated most of the allegations, it was confirmed to be true and we left with no option than to excuse them from the party, thus, they were expelled from the party. OSDF What was Chief Bola Ige’s connection with the crisis? ADEKOJO: Chief Bola Ige was the national leader of the party and was from the state. During our findings at the committee, we found that Bola Ige was the principal target of the PDP and Omisore. He was advised that without eliminating Bola Ige, it will be practically impossible for him to be the governor, even after they might have reserved the PDP ticket for him. Apart from this, Bola Ige made Omisore the Deputy Governor. Omisore had wanted to be governor since 1998, but after the Afenifere meeting in Ijebu-Igbo, where it was resolved that the Afenifere leaders in every state in the South West should be considered as the governorship candidates of AD in their various states, and that where the party members disagree, they should conduct primaries. The situation was however different in Osun. Chief Akande was the Afenifere leader and was endorsed by the party leaders and members. He also got the blessing of Bola Ige, since 1998. Ige was in control of the party machinery and it may be difficult for anybody to become the governor of Osun without the blessing of Ige. Also, when Bola Ige noticed the desperation of Omisore as early as 2001, he invited Omisore for a discussion and appealed to him not to contest against Chief Akande in 2003 election. We also reported some of the allegations leveled against Omisore and his group

Continued on page 14

FOR THE RECORDS

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 5, 2014

Regional Autonomy…Or Nothing Continued from last Thursday, May 29, 2014 edition must be enduring solutions to perennial and contentious national issues.

Bitumen Company, commenced oil exploration.

The 2014 National Conference…to date… The conference commenced against a backdrop of pervasive cynicism about the real intentions of the President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and serious doubts about the leadership‘s capacity – implying a requirement of personal strength of character and political clout, to deliver the radical restructuring that are necessary to resolve the fundamental problem of the legitimacy of the Nigeria Project. Despite these thoughts and views, it was rightly decided that a strong presence of South West delegates are required at the conference to advocate a radical restructuring of Nigeria. Optimists perceived the conference as a golden opportunity to undertake a holistic transformation of the federation, to realign its structures, and commence the institution of attitudinal changes necessary to locate Nigeria on a trajectory of political stability and economic development. However, the first two weeks of the National Conference was expended on debating the President‘s speech. This appeared a delay tactics and red herring. From a security intelligence perspective, it also created an opportunity for the system to enable the delegates to espouse their stance, views and positions and for the delegates to be profiled based on these. The Emir of Adamawa‘s submission on the floor of the National Conference on 27 March 2014 signalled some of the North‘s intent which has been suggested to be blackmailing the nation to submission, resulting in the retention of the status quo. It has been well argued that a multi-cultural and multilingual country needs, at the very least, a federal system of government if it is to achieve any measure of economic, social and political development [Awolowo, later conceptualized as cultural democracy‘ in Sekoni, 2013, p.37]. However, signals emerging from the on-going national conference indicate a resistance to the radical restructuring of the country to consolidate the nation‘s unwieldy and unsustainable political structures. This will invariably slow the potentials in Regional Integration – a model that enhances the capacities of the consolidated entities to undertake meaningful integrated planning and development along geo-regional and ethnic nationality lines. This direction of travel is a rejection of the imperative for a profound realignment of and political restructuring of the nation by the consolidation of the unwieldy and unsustainable 36 state structure into six geo-regional political arrangement. With this impending outcome, the 2014 National Conference appears to have entrenched the very logic of operations that has brought Nigeria to the precipice. Our stance… The South West is committed to the consolidation of the 36 state structures into a Regional structure. This is what is in the best interest of Nigeria and the people of each Region. The South West is reaffirming and rededicating itself to this principle. Any attempt to only tinker with the splintering of Nigeria [for instance, the recommendation to create an additional state in the South East] will only entrench a logic that has proven deleterious for Nigeria‘s political and economic development. Its implications would be felt on all other critical dimensions of Nigeria‘s over-centralised governance; in resource mobilisation and revenue sharing formula, in the continued concentration of the national security in federal hands; in impeding integrated planning for socio-economic development along Regional lines. The continuing structural imbalance of Nigeria is detrimental to the attainment of dynamic and progressive constituent units of the country and would continue to be an impediment to social and economic development of the South West, South South, South East and indeed the North. As a nation, there is the need to achieve a radical transformation of Project Nigeria‘. Inherent in the emerging outcomes of the 2014 National Conference is the danger of exacerbating the problems of the more dynamic constituent sections of the country that are determined to join the global race for rapid transformations – such as the Yoruba people. Hence, Yoruba people would not be rail-roaded into endorsing premeditated outcomes that further undermine our development and the execution of laudable Regional developmental initiatives. For Yoruba people, it is REGIONAL AUTONOMY…OR NOTHING! Section B Some “North-y” claims and assertions …addressing the fallacies and hyperbolic selfassessments. ¯The greatest threat to freedom is the absence of criticism – Wole Soyinka

•Lt.-Gen. ALANI AKINRINADE (retd.) INTRODUCTION A publication that acknowledges the collaboration of the Northern Governors and other socio-political organisations in the North was presented to the 2014 National Conference, in May 2014. This publication, titled Key issues before the Northern delegates to the 2014 National Conference, attempts to distort Nigerian history and re-calibrate the geography of the nation, in a manner reminiscent of Hausa-Fulani approach to national political matters – before and after independence. This publication – a hyperbolic self-assessment [Sekoni, 2014 b] – explicitly directed at and against the South, is littered with non- evidenced and poorly referenced assertions and claims about the North being the backbone and pillar of Nigeria. Noting that President Goodluck Jonathan, in his opening address, admonished the 2014 National Conference to be open to ¯ table thoughts and positions on issues, and make recommendations that advance togetherness, and that delegates should not ¯ approach…issues with suspicion and antagonism, in order to ensure a stronger, more united, peaceful and politically stable Nigeria – this publication that insults the rest of the country with the imperial language that subtends its claims, is at variance with these pronouncements and needlessly provocative. Without doubt, a release with the subtitle of ¯Northern Nigeria: the Backbone and Strength of Nigeria smacks of gross insensitivity to the feelings of ethnic nationalities outside the orbit of the North [Sekoni, 2014 a]. The 2014 National Conference appears to have created a space for ethnic nationalities to unearth their long established fear, political, ethnical and cultural subconscious. These are confirmed in the writings of Lennox-Boyd – Secretary of State for the Colonies – when he writes that ……although they wish to remain and continue as part of the federation, the people of Northern Nigeria are still entertaining certain fears about Southern domination. It is the duty of the South to help allay these fears [Hon. Mr. T. Lennox-Boyd Secretary of State for the Colonies, Lagos, January 30, 1955 in Aderemi, 2005]. Therefore, Northern Governors, Arewa Consultative Forum, and other organisations consulted before the crafting of the North‘s position paper have clearly exteriorised the innards of the Region‘s political assessment of Nigerians, and indeed the South. This section is therefore dedicated to addressing some of the claims and assertions made in the publication – Key issues before the Northern delegates to the 2014 National Conference. The history and national memory of a nation of are too valuable to be tinkered with. The contributions of the North was used to develop the Nigeria oil sector…the North played a key role in the financing of oil exploration in the Niger Delta…and made sacrifices in resources and human life to develop the oil industry…Chap 2, Sec 2.4 a & b, p. 5. 1. This claim is false. Every part of Nigeria contributed to its growth and development. 2. History of oil exploration in Nigeria 2.1 In 1908, a German company named the Nigerian

It stopped its activities in 1914 at the start of the First World War. 2.2 The second attempt at oil prospecting in Nigeria was in 1937 by a company called Shell D‘Arcy. Shell D‘Arcy also stopped operations in 1940 because of the Second World War. In 1946, Shell Company partnered with British Petroleum [BP] to establish the Shell BP Company which finally discovered oil at Oloibiri in 1956. These companies were later joined by Elf, Texaco, Agip, Gulf Oil, Mobil Producing and other oil prospecting and producing companies [Sagay, 2014]. 2.3 At the end of the civil war, the Nigeria National Oil Corporation was formed in 1971 to coordinate government‘s control of this upcoming industry. In 1971, Nigeria joined the OPEC. On April 1, 1973, the Federal Government of Nigeria began a gradual participation in the industry, with a Joint Venture Agreement with various crude oil producers; Shell BP, Mobil Producing, Gulf Oil (Later Chevron), Tenneco and other industry players [Aderemi, 2004, p. 38]. 3. From these early beginnings – 1908 to date – all initial expenses for prospecting and producing oil are borne exclusively by the foreign multinationals and oil companies. The Nigerian Federal Government spends nothing of its own funds in the industry, except for cash calls which are paid for by proceeds of petroleum. The Nigerian Federal Government has been a beneficiary of the petroleum proceeds from the investments and activities of the oil multinationals. The NNPC investments in oil prospecting only occurred in Northern part of the Nigeria, for example, the Benue through, the Chad Basin and in Bauchi State [Aderemi, 2004]. The funds utilised by the NNPC in these Northern areas were obtained from proceeds of oil operations [Sagay, 2014]. 4. While the North produced groundnut and cotton, Western Nigeria produced Cocoa, Mid- Western Nigeria produced rubber, palm oil, palm kernel and timber, Eastern Nigeria which included present day Niger Delta produced palm oil, kernel, and timber. The producers sold their produce and kept the income for their use, only the export duty of the agricultural products was shared in the basis of 50% derivation, 30% distributable funds for the Regions and 20% to the Federal Government. 5. Under the Revenue Allocation formula of the First Republic, it was the North that benefitted financially from the contributions of the other three Regions and not the other way round. In the allocation of the 30% from the Distributable Pool Account, the North received a disproportionate share. Out of the 30% of the resources of all the four Regions paid into that Account, the percentage paid to each Region was as follows: a) to Northern Nigeria, forty ninety-fifths ; b) to Eastern Nigeria, thirty-one ninety-fifths ; c) to Western Nigeria, eighteen ninety-fifths ; d) to Mid –Western Nigeria, six ninety-fifths [Section 141, p.66, 1963 Nigeria Constitution] Thus, documented evidence indicates that since 1914, the North has been and continues to be a major beneficiary of the financial output of the whole country. 6. The Niger Delta was not financed by the proceeds of Northern groundnut and cotton. The North appears to have completely abandoned any pretence at productivity and internally generated revenue, with a dependency on the monthly federal allocation and a developed addiction to the proceeds of oil revenue [Sagay, 2014]. Nigeria, as a nation, is also addicted to the proceeds of oil and gas and this need to be replaced with innovative means of exploring other natural resources in other parts of Nigeria. Agriculture in the North still contributes much more to the national economy…Chap 1, Sec 1.3, p. 1. 7. According to Colonial Report-Annual No 878 for the year 1914, the principal exports were as follows:

Table 3: Nigeria principal exports, 1913 & 1914 Continued on page 13

FOR THE RECORDS

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 5, 2014

Regional Autonomy…Or Nothing Continued from page 12

From this table, it is clear that the South contributed substantially to agricultural production and export, nullifying the North‘s claim. 8. Recent economic report clearly nullifies this claim. The current and fastest growing industry in Nigeria is the service sector. This is confirmed by a recent 2014 economic report and analysis from Africa News Update, where it is affirmed that it is the rapid growth of information and communications technology (ICT), banking, trade and the informal economy – see Box A below. 9. Whist it is acknowledged that the North currently has approximately 75% of the spread of the top 11 agricultural crops produce in Nigeria, the South also has 60% of the spread of same crops, noting the lesser land mass of the South compared to the North – see Table 4. 10. What the nation need, is a drastic reduction on the dependency on oil and the speeding up of the exploration and exploitation of other natural resources that are evenly spread across all parts of the country – see Table 5. This can be better achieved under a true‘ and fiscal‘ federal arrangement. According to the rebased figures, six sectors now account for 70% of nominal GDP rather than three in the old series. The service sector grew fastest, by 240%, and progressively constitutes a larger portion of the GDP. Conversely, the share of the two hitherto giants – agriculture and oil has fallen to 21% and 14.4% respectively. Nigeria is transiting to a services-driven economy due to the rapid growth of information and communications technology (ICT), banking, trade and the informal economy. Zenith Bank, UBA and Guaranty Trust Bank are Nigerian financial institutions with a huge presence across the continent. Mobile phone subscription has exploded from just 2.2 million lines in 2002 to over 169 million by 2013. Call credit vendors, petty traders and other unofficial activities in the informal economy have also been included in the new series, as a component of the services sector. The emergence of the service sector as a major growth driver indicates a greater diversification of the country‘s production structure away from oil (a long sought after goal). The share of the oil and gas sector has fallen from 32.4% of GDP in the old series to just 14.4% in the new series. On one hand this is good news, on the other hand, it reveals deeper structural distortions. While agricultural output has increased, it has grown much more slowly than the capital, technology and skills intensive services sector. Agriculture‘s decline as a share of GDP has more implications in the Northern states, where it dominates. Critically, the diminishing share of agriculture as a percentage of GDP, which should indicate economic development in an industrialising economy, is not the case in Nigeria. Hundreds of textile, food and beverage and other light manufacturing industries lie moribund in industrial hubs in Kaduna and Kano states. Electricity shortages, infrastructural decay and influx of cheap Chinese imports and smuggled consumer goods are some of the factors attributed to the acceleration of de-industrialisation in the North. Tellingly, farmers are not leaving their farmlands in villages to become factory workers in modern industries, but are urbanising in the fringes and becoming an underclass in the vast unofficial activities in the informal sector Although some states like Kano have a vibrant tradebased economy (and the Kannywood local entertainment sector is booming), economic output in the Northern states is mostly agrarian. On the other hand, the services sector – banks, telecoms, hospitality, trade – are mostly concentrated in the South. Of the 21 commercial banks in the country, only one is owned by and headquartered in the North. Even in the South, Lagos and to a lesser extent, the four major oil-producing states, account for the bulk of economic output. Lagos, where most banks, financial institutions, telecoms firms, oil companies and other private sector organisations are headquartered could be Africa‘s fifth largest economy, if it were a separate country. As an outlier, it is the only self-sufficient state out of 35 others, able to generate over 50% of its revenues from internal sources more than its monthly allocations from the centre We can deduce from the new series as to why Nigeria‘s economic boom is not only non-inclusive, but geographically concentrated, in which many Northern states lag behind.

•Maj.-Gen. ADEYINKA ADEBAYO (retd)

Usman, Zainab. May 6, 2014. Nigeria: The economic transition reveals deep structural distortions (analysis) African Arguments in AFRICA NEWS UPDATE. On federalism… In certain sections and quarters of the country, there is a bogey about genuine federalism as a tool of division and an instrument of separatism which glorifies unfair natural advantages and accidental luck over the less fortunate sections of the country. Nothing can be farther from the truth. These notions and fears arise from misconceptions and misapprehensions about the nature of true federalism. The truth of the matter is that when properly harnessed, true federalism reflects the strengths and virtues of the constituent units of an ethnically diverse nation in a way that brings out the best of these constituent units for the collective good of the nation. In fact in some melting pots of the old territories, there was so much inter-ethnic co-mingling that a cultural mutation and the birth of new ethnic groups arose. The case of the Arogbow-Ijaw people, the Okun Yoruba and the Akoko Edo people come to mind. In the East, the North and the Niger Delta areas, there is also evidence of extensive cohabitation among the various ethnic groups even when this took place on the terms of the host communities. The various Sabon-gari, or strangers‘ quarters, attest to this fact. There is no pure or ideal federalism anywhere in the world. The very concept has to be grasped in dynamic action that is as it is seen in the actual process of governance. It has never been possible to legislate federalism. In other words, federalism is a process, a journey and not a destination [Lt. Gen. Alani Akinriande [rtd.] – extract from a speech delivered at the Ijaw Day Celebration, 1 May, 2014]. True federalism presupposes that the national and Regional governments should stand to each other in a relation of meaningful independence resting upon a balanced division of powers and resources (Nwabuese, 1983)1…the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was amended, but issues of ¯true federalism were not amended [Ariyo, 2014]. Propositions being made in the name of operating ‘true federalism’, ‘fiscal federalism’ and the like, are borne either out of political manoeuvres or political ignorance, or both…Chap 5, Sec 1.1, p. 15. 11. Federalism, in practice, is a system of voluntary self-rule and shared rule. This is implied in the derivation of the word ‘federal’, which comes from the Latin word foedus‘, meaning covenant. A covenant signifies a binding partnership among co-equals in which the parties to the covenant retain their individual identity and integrity while creating a new entity [as defined by Prof. John Kincaid, Lafayette College, Pennsylvania]. It is acknowledged that the Nigerian Federal system of government, in practice, falls short of this definition. 12. The North‘s view that Nigeria‘s federalism does

not fit into the pattern of classical federalism – e.g. USA – does not negate the need for other nations to seek and develop their own form of federalism. The American states that chose to go into a federation were as independent as Nigerian ethnic nationalities at the point of colonization and amalgamation [Sekoni, 2014 b]. 13. Sekoni [2014, b] further argues, that ¯another naïve definition of federalism is the claim by the North that federalism is a system that ensures being a brother‘s keeper. There is nothing in the history of territorial federalism or ethnic federalism that suggests that the raison d‘être of creating federations is for constituent parts to serve as brother‘s keepers. If anything, all examples of federalism—in North America, in South America, in Europe, in Asia, and even in some parts of Africa—indicate that federations are created so that constituent parts can be partners, who through the process of cooperation assist each other to achieve its goals of self-development and self-preservation through harnessing of energies of the partners. 14. As opposed to the claim made in the North‘s publication, it is the current Nigerian constitutional arrangement that denies federating units, within the Nigeria space, the opportunity and benefits of cultural democracy‘ i.e. the right of each nationality to live its culture, refine it and use its dominant values to plan, at its own pace – develop its space. No country in the world where people are forced to co-exist on disagreeable terms lasts and Nigeria will not be an exception, if true federalism is not entrenched as a national principle of coexistence. It was clear from the beginning that a unitary system will not work in Nigeria as Lugard‘s attempt to construct Nigerian unity through an amalgamation failed. 15. At the Nigerian Constitutional Conferences of 1951 and 1954, delegations opted unanimously for Federalism. They also established the view that over-centralisation would be a grave error “in this vast country with its widely differing conditions and needs”, and that the policy which had received enthusiastic support throughout the country was the policy of achieving unity at the Centre through strength in the Regions. It was confidently expressed and expected that when the Regions felt that they had wide powers to run their own Regional affairs, they would be more likely ready to cooperate with the other Regions through their representatives in the Council of Ministers and the House of Representatives in serving the interest of Nigeria as a whole” [Sagay, 2011]. 16. Federal Government of Nigeria is an agency of the Nigerian ethnic nationalities. In fact, the current pseudo-federal system is an aberration to what obtained in the beginning. Lugard, in his inaugural speech as Nigerian Governor General, did not abolish the Lagos Colony‘s Legislative Council even though other colonies lacked such structures. Lugard amalgamated the colonies to form Nigeria and still had the wisdom to allow each Protectorate to grow at its pace. Devolution of power and fiscal federalism principles were entrenched then as each Lieutenant-Governor had their secretariat through which they govern – i.e. controlled the political, medical, public works, forestry, agriculture, education, prisons, and mines department. The Lieutenant-Governor of the Southern Provinces had, in addition, control over the maritime, customs, and printing departments [Mohammed, 2013, p.4]. 17. Lugard‘s successor, Clifford wrote on assumption of office that; ¯…if the ideal at which we should aim is, as I hold it should be, the eventual evolution, not only of an ¯amalgamated, but of a united Nigeria, it is essential that the co-ordination of all administrative work, political and non-political alike, should be directed from a single centre… co-ordination does not mean uniformity; the past few years have seen an attempt at uniformity with mischievous results… uniformity has been sought by endeavoring to level down the southern provinces rather than by leveling up the northern provinces. [Clifford to Lord Milner, the British Secretary of State, 3 Dec., 1919 cited in Ballard, 1971]. 18. The operation of true federalism and fiscal federalism‘ is germane to the future existence of Nigeria as a nation. Also see Section C: for policy papers on; *

Devolution of Power

Form of Government Structure of Government and Fiscal federalism, revenue sharing and resource control. Concluded

Culled from The Punch

INTERVIEW

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 5, 2014

How PDP Funded Omisore To Kill Bola Ige – Adekojo Continued from page 11

to Chief Bola Ige, he made several efforts to prevail on Omisore and his groups but they had separate plans. It was during the findings of the Disciplinary and Arbitration Committee, that we confirmed that they were given serious assignment by the PDP to destabilized the AD in the South-West. At a stage, whenever we invited them to answer questions, they would not honour our invitation but to fulfill all righteousness, I would still go after them to meet them either in Osogbo or Abuja. It was later discovered that the PDP had given them about N3 billion to carry out the assignments. When we confronted them with the allegations, they denied, but it was found to be true. The fund tore them apart, as they started fighting one another on how to share the fund. The crisis distabilised their camp, which led to the death of Honourable Odunayo Olagbaju. The information we got was that Olagbaju was in-charge of the money given to them from Abuja and some of them were not comfortable with the manner he was sharing the fund. They launched deadly attacks on another and later the fund was kept in custody of Jelili Adesiyan. It was after that process that Olagbaju was killed in cold blood. They used that fund for several violent attacks and the assassination of Chief Bola Ige. Adesiyan, who was very close to Chief Bola Ige was used to gather intelligence on how to assassinate Bola Ige. His house in Ibadan was even used as a meeting point, as his house was very close to Bola Ige’s house. OSDF : What Was the relationship between Adesiyan and Chief Bola Ige? ADEKOJO: I knew Adesiyan when he was with Chief Bola Ige. He was one of the young chaps loved by Uncle Bola. Uncle Bola restored his hope and life when he was deported from abroad, when he wanted to commit suicide. Uncle Bola since then was taking care of Adesiyan and in 1999 when AD took power in the South West. Uncle Bola nominated him to be working with Omisore as one of his aides. Later, I don’t know what informed his decision to withdraw him from Omisore. He later nominated him to Alhaji Lam Adesina, the then Oyo State governor, perhaps to be closer to his family, as his family was living in Ibadan then and when Uncle Bola told him of his intention to swap him, he pleaded with Uncle Bola to allow him continue with Omisore and Uncle Bola told him that since he was comfortable in Osun, he should remain there. He later appealed to Uncle Bola to talk to Lam Adesina to be awarding contracts to his wife. Uncle Bola accepted the request and Oyo State government was awarding various

•ADEKOJO

contracts to Adesiyan’s wife. He was made by Chief Bola Ige. He was very close to him and knew much about Uncle Bola and some of us who were political aides to Uncle Bola also loved Adesiyan. He could confidently talked about the map of Uncle Bola’s house and understood his lifestyle. OSDF: How can you substantiate the claims that Omisore was responsible for the assassination of Chief Bola Ige? ADEKOJO: The circumstances that surrounded the assassination of Bola Ige was so clear and quote me anywhere, Omisore and his group killed Uncle Bola. When we were investigating the allegations leveled against them, including their romance with the PDP, receiving an amount worth N3 billion to distabilise AD and eliminate some of our leaders, including Uncle Bola, we confronted them and it was established that they meant the threat, and that the assignment was heavily-funded. It was in public knowledge, how Omisore and his group embarrassed Uncle Bola in Ile-Ife and his threat to kill him. Apart from all these facts, few days before his assassination, I got the information that they wanted to kill Uncle Bola. I received an anonymous call that they wanted to kill Uncle Bola and that they were coordinating the assassination at a building very close to his residence

in Bodija, Ibadan. I requested the identity of the person, who phoned me but he refused, but urged me to inform Uncle Bola to be careful and not to rely on the security around him. I was so disturbed, few hours later that person called me back and I pleaded with him to meet me and that I will reward him for the information, he refused and told me that he was only volunteering the information because I had assisted him in the past. I was so afraid, to confirm the information. I went spiritual, by observing ablution and did Istiara (spiritual way of finding truth by Muslims) and during the prayer, it was revealed to me. I saw blood and the security surrendering their weapons. It was confirmed to me during that prayer that they wanted to kill Uncle Bola. I rushed to his residence very early in the morning he was not at home, they said he went to Lagos to pick his elder brother who fell sick, I demanded to see his wife, Justice Atinuke Ige. They told me she was sleeping, after she woke up, she attended to me and I narrated the issue to her on the mysterious call I received and what I saw in my prayer. His wife was so shocked and told me to wait for him. Later, I was told that if he was coming from Lagos, he would not come home directly but would go to his brother’s house, Uncle Dele Ige. At the residence of Uncle Bola,

I saw guilt boldly written on the faces of the security team. I was asking for them one after the other, but they either told me one went to market or just strolled out. It was obvious that they had compromised the security. I could not hold it, I moved straight to his brother’s house to wait for him. I met his brother and also narrated the information to him and told him that they had already compromised the security. I told him to talk to Uncle Bola, so that we could change the security immediately and arranged for private security. He told me to wait for Uncle Bola. Few hours later, Uncle Bola came and he went inside with his brother. I was later invited to narrate the information again, but Uncle Bola told me it was not possible that no one could assassinate him, only if God wished. I was so furious and agitated. I told him that they had compromised the security. He told me to relax and forget about it that he was protected by God, that if the whole world wanted to kill him and God said no, it will be impossible and if the whole world were protecting and God say yes, no one could stop them. He later went inside with his brother and told me that what was important to him was how to take his sick brother to the hospital. Despite what he said, I was still insisting and they sent me on an errand to go and give Christmas Turkey to Chief Arisekola Alao and then Oyo State Governor Lam Adesina and told me to meet him in Esa-Oke for the Christmas celebration. For the first time, I disobeyed him. He went inside with his brother and I don’t know what they discussed. He later came out and entered his car. I stopped his car and still insisted that there was urgent need to arrange for private security and warned him that the information was true because I was so confident. He frowned at me and threatened to punish me if I mention the issue again. He drove out and I went to deliver the message he sent me. On 23rd of December 2002, Uncle Bola was assassinated. OSDF: After the assassination, did you volunteer any information to the security agents? ADEKOJO: Yes, I did and even promised to testify against anybody. I equally granted interview to journalists on what I knew about the assassination of Uncle Bola. Even later, Omisore invited me and warned me not to grant any interview on the matter. He equally offered N50 million bribe not to say anything on this matter and I told him that I could not sell my conscience, especially, on a man that had shown me love and assisted me to become something in life, Uncle Bola was my mentor in politics, he also promised to take me to the presidency for juicy appointment, but I rejected all this offer.

OSUN DEFENDER Thursday, June 5, 2014

PHOTOTALK

•A sea of heads at the event.

•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, acknowledging cheers from the crowd at the APC Ikire governorship rally last Tuesday.

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THURSDAY, JUNE 5, 2014

The chairman of the Campaign Committee for the re election of Governor Rauf Aregbesola who is also the Senator representing Osun Central senatorial district, Professor Sola Adeyeye, has said that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate, Senator Iyiola Omisore, will be totally defeated in the August 9 election in the State of Osun that he would not contest any political office again.

He affirmed that the people are ready to vote and protect their votes, saying everything will be done to discourage violence before, during and after the

Omisore's political career'll end with August 9 election defeat - Senator Adeyeye

The committee has as its Secretary, Professor John Adebunmi Ayoade, who was a former Deputy Director, Centre for Democratic Studies (CDS). The lawmaker said his committee is saddled with the responsibility of coordinating the return of Governor Aregbesola campaign, vowing that in the governorship election, Omisore will not win a single ward.

The lawmaker noted that with a hitch-free election, Osun would be a success story for others can emulate. Tagged Rauf Aregbesola State Campaign Committee 2014, members of the committee include: Senator Bayo Salami, Speaker of the Osun House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Najeem Salam, Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti, Chief of Staff, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola and Dr. Peter Babalola.

Senator Adeyeye stated this at the inauguration of a 20-man state campaign committee to coordinate the re-election of the Governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola. Senator Adeyeye said the August election will put a final stop to Omisore's political career because his defeat would be devastating and final.

election.

Omisore

"There is no gainsaying the fact that Governor Aregbesola has performed wonderfully well. "I have no doubt in my mind that people of the state will vote overwhelmingly for his re-election.

The committee also comprises four state commissioners and four honourable members of the House of Assembly. The Commissioners are: Finance, Budget and Planning, Dr. Wale Bolorunduro; Information, Sunday Akere and Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Barrister Kolapo Alimi and Alagbada Ismaila, Commissioner for Commerce and Cooperative.

"Omisore will be so defeated in that August 9 election that he will never in his life seek any political office.

The Honourable members include Bamisayemi Oladoyin, Timothy Owoeye, Femi Kujenbola, Akinloye Ajibola.

"He will not win a single ward in the state. This election will surely end his political career because the defeat would be so devastating," Adeyeye said.

Others in the committee are Hon. Biyi Odunlade, Comrade Poju Odusola, Obawale Adebisi, Alhaji Sule Alao, Mr. Bosun Oyintiloye.

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.