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SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 A Yoruba adage says that ‘if the person being deceived knows not that he is being deceived, the one deceiving his him knows that he is lying’. The above adage is apt in describing the desperate gubernatorial ‘wannabe’ in the state of Osun, former Senator Iyiola Omisore, regarded in some quarters as ‘Mr. money missroad’. The above adage is apt in describing the desperate gubernatorial ‘wannabe’
VOL. 9. NO.026
Front Page Comment
Omisore’s Harvest Of Lies And Deceits in the state of Osun, former Senator Iyiola Omisore, regarded in some quarters as ‘Mr. money missroad’. Going through the interview he granted The NIGERIAN TRIBUNE published
in January 6th 2014 edition of the paper we were taken aback by the tissues of lies that oozed from his mouth all in the name of pursuing inordinate governorship ambition. Like the Yoruba would
say blood doesn’t ooze from the mouth of a liar’. This is true because if it does, then Omisore’s mouth should be full of blood as he was granting that interview. For a start only a pathological liar could claim that Ogbeni Aregbesola’s programmes in the state of Osun have no human face even as his programmes have impacted positively on the... Continue from Pg. 5
Who Killed Chief Bola Ige, formerAttorneyGeneral and Minister of Justice?
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Osun Assembly To Approve Council Creation Bill In March •Monarchs Call For Quick Passage
- See Story On Page 3
•The Deputy Governor, State of Osun, Otunba (Mrs) Titi Laoye-Tomori; Adamawa State Governor Murtala Nyako; Sen. Abiola Ajimobi, Oyo State governor; Dr Kayode Fayemi, Ekiti State governor; Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Kano State; Aremo Olusegun Osoba; National APC Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande and Alhaji Ibrahim Galdan, Yobe State Governor during the progressive governors’ forum meeting at Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, Oyo State, last Monday.
Calls For Akeju’s Removal Lack Substance - Commissioner
- See Story On Page 4
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OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, March 1, 2014
Osun Assembly To Approve Council Creation Bill In March •Monarchs Call For Quick Passage
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HE State Assembly of Osun has said that it would approve the local government creation bill before the end of March. Chairman, House governments in Odo-Otin, Committee on Local Ila and Boripe Local Government and Governments. Chieftaincy Affairs, He said: “We have again Honourable Wasiu seen Governor Rauf Adebayo, gave the hint on Aregbesola’s commitment Tuesday during the to bring development to the committee’s tour to the grassroots by bringing this designated headquarters of bill before us and we will the proposed local also do justice to it.
“Latest by the end of March this year, we will conclude all the processes required for the creation of the councils and we will give approval to the bill. “However, as we all know, all towns cannot be headquarters and we want our monarchs and residents to accept with love, wherever the new councils are located. But we assure
By KAZEEM MOHAMMED our people that we will do justice on the locations,”, he promised. In their separate remarks, the Orangun of Ila, Oba Wahab Adedotun; Oloyan of Oyan, Oba Kilani Adekeye and Olunisa of Inisa, Oba Joseph Oladunjoye urged the Assembly to accelerate the passage of the bill. Oba Adedotun, who noted that the proposed
councils are in line with the agitation of the people for years, said that the councils would bring development closer to the people. In his own submission, the Oloyan of Oyan said that the new council in Oyan would forever be appreciated by the people of the community and its environs, if eventually approved. He stated that even without allocation from the federation account, the proposed council in Oyan would be sustained, noting that there are many natural
and agricultural potentials that can be used to sustain the council, just as there are industries that can boost its economy. Commending the governor for his developmental strides less than three and half years of his administration, Oba Adekeye noted that his progressive tendency has made Osun a reference point among its peers. Also, Olunisa of Inisa promised that the proposed council in the ancient town would never be backward interms of economic development. Other town visited were Iree and Ada.
INEC Releases Voters’ Registers To Political Parties In Osun By KEHINDEAYANTUNJI
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•An ongoing ATC Middle School construction at Oke-Oye, Ilesa, State of Osun under the administration of Governor Rauf Aregbesola. Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI
HE Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the State of Osun, Ambassador Rufus Akeju, on Tuesday presented the electronic copies of voters’ registers to representatives of registered political parties in the state. Akeju also disclosed that March. The INEC Commissioner, the commission has fixed 7th to 9th of March as dates who implored all the for the distribution of political parties to help the permanent voters’ cards to commission in ensuring registration registered voters in the state. successful Represented by his exercise, also urged them to Administrative Secretary, examine the correctness of Mr Oladipo Bankole, Akeju the electronic voters’ enjoined those that have registers and report back to just attained the age of the commission. Oladapo said: “The eighteen to endeavour to register during the electronic copy of voters’ continuous voters registers presented to all registration which will political parties contain the commence on the 12th of same quantitative and qualitative information that should be kept for your records, examined for and reviewed unemployment in Nigeria correctness for comprehensiveness in and lauded all order to drive continuous developmental revolution voters’ registration going on across APC- exercise”. controlled states in the According to him, federation. presentation of voters’ The forum thereby registers was not just a step achieving solid agreed that the second to for the edition of the lecture foundation series, focusing on forthcoming gubernatorial education, be scheduled election, but a critical and for between April and May fundamental building block 2014 and will come up in in the electoral process, to establish the Kano State, third edition firmly cornerstone for transparent, will address health-related matters and will be free, fair and credible coming up in Imo State elections. The REC also stated that between July and August, the permanent voters’ cards while fourth and the last series for this year would not be collected by focusing on water proxy, and advised the parties to submit resources will be hosted in political names of their agents, who Kwara State between would monitor the October and November distribution at each polling this year. unit, at least a week before Present at the lecture the exercise. were the Interim National In their remarks, some Chairman of APC, Chief chairmen and Bisi Akande, the interim representatives of political Publicity Secretary, Alhaji parties expressed Lai Mohammed, APC satisfaction on the INEC governors, while Deputy preparation, noting that it Governor of the State of would enhance free, fair, Osun, Otunba (Mrs) credible and transparent Grace Titilayo Laoye- polls. Tomori, represented Political parties that Governor Rauf received the copies of the Aregbesola, and Deputy electronic voters’ register Governors of Lagos, included APGA, APC, LP, Borno and Kwara states, Accord, DPP, NCP, KOWA, also represented their UPP, PPA, NNPP, among others. governors.
Nigeria’s Unemployment Rate Is Worrisome - APC Governors By SHINA ABUBAKAR HE current spate of youth unemployment in Nigeria has been described as unacceptable and one which portends grave danger to the sustainability of the social, economic and political stability of the nation. Chairman of the All unemployment, which Progressives Congress have been ravaging the and adopt (APC) Governors’ Forum, country Imo State governor, practical solutions that be easily Owelle Rocha Okorocha, could stated this while speaking implemented. Speaking on the at the first APC Governance Lecture series nation’s Gross Domestic tagged: “Unemployment Product (GDP), inflation and the Crisis of and unemployment rate, Governance in Nigeria; the Imo State governor The Way Forward” said; “as at the time when attended by APC Nigeria returned to governors and leadership democratic governance in of the party at the Civic 1999, her real Gross Centre, Ibadan, Oyo State Domestic Product (GDP) rates was put at 1.12 per capital. Okorocha opined that, cent; inflation rate was the forum was aimed at 6.6per cent, while bringing about all that it unemployment rate was could gather from eight per cent. “But now, which is Nigerians from all works all life, with a view to about fifteen years down making Nigeria work again the line, an average GDP is at 6.5per cent, inflation come 2015. He said all hands would is seven per cent, while be brought on deck, so as the latest available to effectively address unemployment rate is contending issues like 23.9 per cent as at 2011". Governor Okorocha governance and an alarming rate of also assured that issues
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raised at the gathering will be domesticated at all the APC states, so as to develop workable mechanisms meant for job creation in these states, adding that the forum would initiate processes of inter and intra-state consultations, negotiations, planning and mapping out of strategies aimed at taking forward recommendations from presentations and debates at the lecture. He added that the emergence of new policy environment remains an important ingredient necessary to stimulate economic growth and empowering the public and private sectors to create the much-needed jobs, not only for Nigerian youths, but for all categories of people requiring decent jobs. In his view, the guest lecturer on the occasion, Dr. Ayodele Teriba, disclosed that as Nigeria’s growth surged in the past one and a half decades, unemployment rate has increased in three folds and blamed the political class for not being able to effectively translate growth to increased employment in
the country. Dr. Teriba hinted that the reason for the continued persistence of high unemployment rate in Nigeria was largely due to the inability of the political class to effectively manage the task of fiscal and monetary policy management in the country presently put into the hands of their appointees, who have inadvertently made weakened policy choices. He said in the quest to make democratic governance a tool for delivering economic tangibles and enduring economic benefits in Nigeria, the nation needs to make monthly employment data available before the end of each month, fix rail transportation, rethink fiscal policy, refocus monetary policy and ensure that elected officials accept responsibility for policy formulations and coordination. Earlier in his welcome address, Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, appreciated APC as a party for the initiative of tackling the menace of
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OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, March 1, 2014
Crisis Rocks Osun Labour Party •As State Interim Chairman Storms Out Of State Congress By KEHINDEAYANTUNJI
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FFORTS to re-unite the State of Osun chapter of Labour Party (LP) suffered a setback on Tuesday as the interim leaders of the party staged a walk-out at the state congress recently held in Osogbo, the state capital. The party state congress, Before the Tuesday congress, held at Women and Children the new members who defected Development Initiative from the Peoples Democratic (WOCDIF) Centre in the state Party (PDP) alongside capital, was marred with crisis Akinbade and members of and controversies, as two Accord Party have been factions were pointing accusing engaging in struggle with old fingers at each other over the members of LP under Chief legality of the congress. Daniel Afilaka, the transition A faction of the party alleged chairman of the party, over who another faction of being loyal leads the party in the state. to the former Secretary to the Afilaka and other members State Government, Alhaji Fatai of the party had, in protest, Akinbade, who was accused of boycotted the congress. hijacking the party structure Speaking with journalists through illegal means and vowed shortly after storming out of the to resist the move. venue of the congress, Chief
Afilaka accused Akinbade and his supporters of desperation to hijack the party He claimed that the whole scenario appeared as if the onetime state chairman of PDP and his supporters were planted in the Labour Party to scuttle its chances in the forthcoming governorship poll. Afilaka, who claimed not to be interested in the post of state chairman of the party, said he was only fighting for the interest of old members to prevent factionalisation, adding that those in the party before Akinbade and his supporters
joined the LP are being relegated to the background. He added that the congress was held in defiance of an existing court injunction, saying some aggrieved members had already approached the court and got an order restraining INEC from supervising the state congress of the party until Thursday, February 27, adding that he was at the venue of the congress to serve the order on INEC and other parties involved in the matter. He said despite being locked out of the venue, the court order was served on the parties, but
the congress was still held. The congress, which was held amidst tight security and under supervision of officials of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) returned Barrister Timothy Babalola as new state chairman of the party, while twenty one other officers were also elected. “All that was done at the state congress of Labour Party on Thursday was against what our party stands for. Akinbade and his supporters are bringing PDP way of doing things into the Labour Party and that will cause problems. It is obvious
Akinbade was planted in the LP by some people to disrupt it. “I am surprised that Akinbade could become a willing tool in the hands of those that want to disrupt the LP. I really suspect that some other political parties planted him in our party, but I will not support any illegal move by those that want to borrow our platform. They have ulterior motives and are hell-bent on achieving that even if it involves throwing common sense into the dustbins,” Afilaka fumed. According to him, leaders of the LP, including Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko and others will be briefed, while his legal team considers next legal step to take on the matter.
Man, 18, Remanded Over Threat To Life By OGUNTUNDEAYOMIDE
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HE State of Osun Police Command has arraigned one Mr. Atanda Oluwafemi before the Osogbo Magistrate’s Court for threatening to murder one Mrs. Olayinka Oderinde. upon. Mr. Atanda (18) was Mrs Olayinka Oderinde, allegedly accused on a two- who was the complainant and count charge before the also the first witness, said in her magistrate’s court. testimony that she was in her According to the charge house on the 5th of October sheet, which was made available when the incident happened. to OSUN DEFENDER, it was Mrs Olayinka, a retiree lives stated that Atanda on 5th and 6th at Oke Arugbo, Capital Hotel October, 2013 at Zone 4, Oke Area, Osogbo said: “On that Arugbo area, Osogbo, did day, I had a purported call on conduct himself in a manner my cell phone.” She added that likely to cause the breach at the caller warned her to call back, peace by sending text messages if she didn’t want to lose her requiring N200,000 from Mrs two sons. Olayinka Oderinde. The unknown caller also sent When the case came up for Mr Olayinka text messages hearing, the prosecuting counsel, requiring a sum of N200,000 in Barrister Bamidele Salawu appreciation of saving the lives applied before the court that the of the two sons. two witnesses should be called On that the same day at 8.00pm, the caller sent another text message that the money should be sent through Mrs Olayinka gatekeeper and they should meet at First Class School, also located at Oke Arugbo area. HE state government During a chat with OSUN of Osun has DEFENDER, Mrs Olayinka nominated a former narrated her ordeal and Chief of General Staff confessed that she had sleepless during the military era and nights for almost a week because elder statesman, General of the incident. The police officer in-charge Alani Akinrinade, former Speaker of the House of of the case, Corporal Ogunleye Assembly in the State, Thomas told the court that the Professor Mojeed Alabi and case was reported by Mrs four others to represent the Olayinka at 8.00pm on 5th of state at the National October. Corporal Thomas, who Conference being organised by the Federal disguised to be the gatekeeper, then effected Atanda Government. Others on the list of Oluwafemi’s arrest outside the nominees are a former school. “Two SIM cards were Permanent Secretary in the discovered in his phone,” said Ministry of Defence Mr. Corporal Thomas. The accused person, Atanda Femi Akande, former Oluwafemi said in his statement Commissioner for Justice in the State, Chief Gbadegesin that, he was a day guard at Plant Pillars School established Adedeji, Director-General, and Mrs Olayinka Oderinde. Development Agenda for by He further said the second Western Nigerian SIM card in the phone was Commission Mr. Dipo found on the floor, when he was Famakinwa and Mrs. Bola going out to call his friends. Ogunrinade (mni). “I wanted to establish a The deputy governor of computer and photocopy the state, Otunba (Mrs) centre after I might have Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori, collected the N200,000” said acting on the directive of Oluwafemi. the governor, Ogbeni Rauf The Presiding Magistrate, Aregbesola, had since Olusola Aluko said in his ruling forwarded a letter to the that the accused should be Office of the Secretary to remanded in police custody Government of the before adjourning the case till Federation, Chief Anyim 11 th of March for further Pius Anyim. hearing.
Osun Nominates Akinrinade, Ex-Speaker 4 Others To National Conference
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•A newly-completed road project at Testing Ground area, Ilesa, under the State Government of Osun by Ogbeni Rauf Photo: JESUDOYIN ABRAHAM Aregbesola’s administration.
Don’t Use New Councils For Violence - OSHA Urges Communities By KAZEEM MOHAMMED
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HE State of Osun legislature has appealed to the people of the state not to allow the creation of the proposed local government council areas to cause violence among themselves. Chairman, House of boost our economy at both Assembly Committee on rural and urban centres. “We should not allow the Local Government and location of these new Chieftaincy Affairs, Honourable Wasiu councils to cause violence, Adebayo and the lawmaker rather, we should take representing Irepodun/ wherever they are located Orolu State Constituency, with open hands and love Honourable Kamil Oyedele for the benefit of all of us,” made the appeal on he said. Also, Adebayo stressed Wednesday during the committee members’ visit to the need for the benefitting the designated local governments and headquarters of the communities to introduce proposed council areas in ideas that would make them Olorunda, Osogbo, to sustain the councils. “It is a fact that even the Irepodun and Ifelodun money being presently Local Government Council areas. Change Of Name The lawmakers stated that since the creation of the I, formerly known as new councils has become a T A I W O reality and only waiting for TOLULOPE, now the approval of the state wish to be known and parliament, the people of the state must use the addressed as TAIWO opportunity to ensure the T O L U L O P E economic development of EMMANUEL. All their areas. former documents Oyedele said: “This is a great opportunity for all of remain valid. General us and we must use it to public should take note.
allocated to our existing councils is not enough and as a result, we must come up with ideas for the purpose of sustaining the new councils. “Governor Rauf Aregbesola has played his role and he is not relenting, while the House of Assembly is also doing the same thing, but it is now left for our communities to play their roles to sustain the new councils,” he added. Speaking earlier, the Executive Secretary, Irepodun Local Government, Mrs Sadiat
Ogunsola urged the Assembly to accelerate the passage of the bill. This, she said, would further bring development to the grassroots in line with the aspirations of the current administration in the state. The communities visited were Ilobu and Erin-Osun in Irepodun Local Government Council Area, Ikirun and Obaagun in Ifelodun Local Government Council Area, Jameegbo and Oke-Fia in Osogbo Local Government Council Area and Ota-Efun in Olorunda Local Government Council Area.
Security Tip In Osun The government of the State of Osun has procured special security numbers for use by people in distress. The numbers are: 08100000481, 08100000482, 08100000483, 08100000484, 08100000485, 08100000486. All the numbers became operational since August 17, 2012. Please, note and call to assist Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, the elected governor of the State Of Osun, in sustaining a peaceful and crime-free environment. - Management
If you have a story or advert for us, contact 08033927286, 08033880205, 08061197897, 08023191891.
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OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, March 1, 2014
Yobe Killings: This Mindless Criminality Must End Now - Aregbesola By ISMAEELAZEEZ
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HE Governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has described the killing of dozens of pupils of Federal Government College, Yobe by members of the Boko Haram as brutal and barbaric. Aregbesola, in a The governor said he statement by the Director was alarmed by the of Bureau of inhumane and brazen Communications and manner in which the Boko Strategy, Office of the Haram now unleash Governor, Mr. Semiu violence on all cadres of Okanlawon, said the killing people in the society. of the innocent students He said the activities of was unconscionable as Boko Haram should worry such dastardly act could all in the country because only be perpetrated by attacks on innocent and people, who have lost defenceless school sanity and lack human students is now becoming feelings.
a regular occurrence, a trend that must as a matter of urgency be arrested forthwith. Aregbesola called on security agencies to be proactive in safeguarding the lives of people and their property across the country. “The murder of innocent school children by some psychopaths is most barbaric, inhuman
and criminal. “What could drive people to do such mad thing is unimaginable. What for and in the name of what could anyone murder innocent school children in such cold blood? “Nowhere across the country seems safe for people again. All security agencies, particularly those involved with
intelligence gathering, must gird their loins, improve on their acts and come to the rescue of Nigerians. This latest act of reckless massacre of innocent citizens is unacceptable, mindboggling, frightening and wicked. It calls for concerted efforts from all patriots to find a lasting solution to this menace. After all, the security and welfare of citizens remain
the supreme responsibilities of any organized society.” “On behalf of government and people of the State of Osun, I commiserate with the families of the murdered students, people and Government of Yobe . “May Allah give all concerned the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” Aregbesola said
Calls For Akeju’s Removal Lack Substance - Commissioner By FRANCIS EZEDIUNO
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HE call for the removal of Ambassador Rufus Akeju, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for the State of Osun, by some discontented groups has been described as baseless. Speaking during a chat PDP, were defeated. “The only reason they with our reporter in Osogbo, the state capital, the have is that they think he is Honourable Commissioner somehow related to Asiwaju for Home Affairs, Culture Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “I say categorically that and Tourism; Honourable Sikiru Ayedun, noted that they should prove the link the REC had not done between the two men? I anything wrong to warrant think they are afraid of defeat” the call for his removal. On the possible Stressing that Akeju has no sympathy for All candidature of a particular Progressives Congress PDP aspirant, Ayedun (APC), contrary to the belief noted that he was merely in some quarters, he daydreaming. “The politician is maintained that the REC had not in any way taken any daydreaming to become side, even in past elections governor, but he should understand that he has no in the state. He revealed that the last capacity to rule this state. “The State of Osun needs election in the state was a one-man-one-vote thing a focused leader and not a and those calling for his rabble rousing politician,” removal, especially in the Ayedun stressed.
•(L-R) Deputy Governor, State of Osun, Otunba (Mrs) Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori; Governor Rauf Aregbesola; his wife, Sherifat; Mr Ezekiel Salami and Chief of Staff to State of Osun Governor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, during the Milk of Knowledge in aid of the O’ Meal Programme organised by Sheri Care Foundation (SCARF) under the Office of the Wife of the Governor of the State Of Osun, Mrs Sherifat Aregbesola, at Nelson Mandela Freedom Park, Osogbo, State of Osun, recently.
Prevalent Peace In Osun Responsible For Tourism Boost - Commissioner By FRANCIS EZEDIUNO
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T has been revealed that notwithstanding the lean federal allocation coming to the State of Osun, the state government is doing all it could to attract investors, both public and private, so as to raise the standard of the culture, tourism and hospitality industries to an internationally acceptable standard. The State Commissioner Osogbo. for Home Affairs, Culture The commissioner also and Tourism, Mr Sikiru revealed that the peace and Ayedun, disclosed this to security being enjoyed in journalists recently in the state was a factor that was responsible for the growth of the hospitality and tourism industry in Osun. In his words, “added to this is also the fact that there commended the governor are good road network, for coming up with the education and improved idea of creating new health. “The government has councils across the state to bring development also embraced the setting of standards as another way to closer to the people. He called on the people advance its developmental of the state to continue to plans.” He attributed the growth support the governor, especially before, during of tourism and hospitality to and after the governorship the four levels of tourism the election in the state, for state was endowed with. “Tourism in Osun is him to complete his divided into four; sociotransformation agenda. In his own address, the religious, religious, socioEPU President said that the traditional and eco-tourism. ancient town has all All these are investorand the main one resources required to attractive is socio-traditional, because sustain the new council, if the State of Osun is the eventually approved. social pot of the Yorubas He added that a and other Yoruba people in proposed befitting the diaspora always want to secretariat has already associate with the state.” been prepared for the takeIn another development, off of the council. the State of Osun Alao further stressed Commissioner for Home that all the community Affairs, Culture and heads in Erin-Osun and its Tourism also revealed that environs unanimously governments of the Southagreed to have the new West states were aware of council located in the the danger of extinction ancient town.
Erin-Osun Community Declares Support For Aregbesola By KAZEEM MOHAMMED HE Elerin of Erin Osun in Irepodun Local Government Council Area of the State of Osun, Oba Yusuff Omoloye and the residents of the ancient town, have declared their total support for the second term bid of Governor Rauf Aregbesola. The monarch and the being proposed to be sited National President of Erin- in the town. “Though, traditional Osun Progressive Union (EPU), Alhaji Hassan Alao, rulers don’t engage in made the declaration on partisan politics, but as Wednesday, while leaders, we must support receiving members of the anything that would bring House of Assembly development to our towns committee on Local and cities. “We have long been Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during yearning for the creation their tour to the ancient of new councils without town as the designated success, and we don’t headquarters of one of the have a choice other than proposed local to support Aregbesola government council areas who has been able to meet our yearnings and in the state. Oba Omoloye stated that aspirations,” the monarch the declaration was in stressed. Also speaking, the state appreciation of the developmental strides Commissioner for Local and initiated by the current Government Affairs, administration across the Chieftaincy state and the new council Barrister Kolapo Alimi,
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facing the Yoruba language. Honourable Ayedun, while speaking in Osogbo, maintained that it was for this reason that the state governments in the southwest, especially Osun, endorsed the recommendations in the Development Agenda for
Western Nigeria (DAWN) making teaching and learning of Yoruba language compulsory in public schools education curriculum. “It is a linkage between the past and the present generations,” he added.
Court Remands Man Over Unlawful Possession Of Gun By ISMAEEL UTHMAN
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57-year-old man, Oluwole Oguntomilola, has been ordered to be remanded in prison custody by an Osogbo Magistrate’s Court for alleged unlawful possession of a gun. A charge sheet obtained by bail of the accused person in OSUN DEFENDER on the most liberal term, even as Wednesday alleged that he promised that reliable Oguntomilola was caught with surety would stand for the a riffle in his uncompleted suspect. Reacting to the bail building on February 20, 2014, at Erin-Ijesa Area, along Akure/ application, police prosecutor, Inspector Sunday Akingbade, Ilesa Expressway. The charge sheet stated that said bail was at the discretion Oguntomilola was not licensed of the court, praying the court to have a gun, just as he did not to exercise its discretion judiciously. belong to any vigilante group Chief Magistrate Olusola in the area. Aluko however turned down According to the charge the oral bail application made sheet, the alleged offence by the defence counsel, and contravened Sections 27 (b)(1) ordered that a formal bail and (11) of the fire arms Act application be filed at the cap F.28 of the Federation, court. 2004. Aluko then ordered the The accused person accused person to be remanded however, pleaded not guilty to in prison custody, pending the the count-charge of unlawful determination of the formal bail possession of gun leveled application. against him. He thereafter adjourned the Defence counsel, Barrister case till April 9, 2014 for Okobi Nagite applied for the mention.
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OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, March 1, 2014
Omisore’s Harvest of LiesifAnd Deceits he becomes governor he Continued from Pg. 1.
...positively on the lives of the people and brought unprecedented development to the state. While Aregbesola’s achievements which cut across all sectors in the life of the state are being given national applause and global acknowledgement by numerous people who value good governance Omisore on his part revelled in rubbishing A r e g b e s o l a ’s achievement in that interview. This is quite mischievous! To claim that Aregbesola’s policies – as progressive and as propeople as they are – lack human face is the height of hypocrisy. And such a position not only exposes the hypocritical nature of Omisore but it also diminishes his integrity – if he had any. And if we may ask here; how much of integrity does Omisore even
have? Therefore it’s not totally surprising that he expressed such level of lies in that interview. Omisore must be an exceptional liar not to see anything good in Aregbesola’s policies when the latter has succeeded in beating PDP’s record of achievement just within three years of governing the state even as Omisore’s party – PDP – held power for seven and a half years.
would give Osun youths better jobs and better pay than what the visionary and creative Aregbesola is giving them the question people are wont to ask is; what was he able to do for the youths when he was a senator even as he was the chairman of the Senate’s Appropriation Committee? In serious climes where competence and people’s antecedents are the basis of being elected into political office a character like Omisore who had a murder case hanging on his neck couldn’t have even emerged as a senator not to talk of heading a Committee as sensitive as Appropriation Committee. His nauseating fraudulent entry into the Senate plus his ridiculous emergence as chairman Senate Committee on Appropriation could only happen in Nigeria being a country of anything goes.
Quite unfortunate that Omisore, who now lays a spurious claim to possessing a doctorate degree couldn’t even articulate very well the plans he has for the state. This is a big shame. For a man who wants to be governor to lack a clear cut vision of what to do for the state if he becomes the governor, shows his level of intellectual poverty in spite of his The same lies Omisore fed claim of being a PhD the public in that interview he holder. On Omisore’s claim that repeated again during the launch
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of his governorship campaign in Osogbo, the state capital recently. But quite important to state it again as we have always maintained in this medium that Omisore has a right to contest for the number one seat of Osun. Not only does he has the right to contest, he also has the right of expression. He is free to rubbish Aregbesola’s achievements as he likes. One thing is however clear; no matter the level of contemptuous talk against the honey, it will remain sweet still. Whatever he likes let him continue to say against Aregbesola, he cannot succeed in rubbishing Ogbeni’s good work which is being globally applauded everyday. As election is around the corner Aregbesola’s work will continue to campaign for him. He has done well and the people of Osun are not ready to replace him in the coming election with a visionless desperado who has nothing to offer the state save negative politics. Until August this year when the people will speak with their voting power and return the man who has turned Osun around within three years who says Omisore should not continue to live in fool’s paradise?
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OSUN DEFENDER is published by Moremi Publishing House Limited, Promise Point Building, Opposite Guaranty Trust Bank GTB, Gbongan Road, Osogbo, State of Osun. All correspondence to the above mail address. ISSN: 0794-8050 Telephone: 0803-392-7286, 08033880205 Website: www.osundefender.com/index.php e-mail: osundefender@yahoo.com
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FEATURE
OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, March 1, 2014
National Conference And The Yoruba Agenda FTER several criticisms that trailed Senator Femi Okunrounmu-led National Conference Presidential Advisory Committee report on the modalities for the national conference and consequent declaration of President Goodluck Jonathan to hold the conference on February 20 this year, Yoruba leaders, ethnics, and self-determination organizations in Yorubaland gathered at the House of Chiefs, Oyo State Government Secretariat, Ibadan, to find a common ground at the conference. The hall was filled to its brim, which showed the eagerness of the stakeholders to harmonize Yoruba agenda at the conference, despite the stiff opposition of the people from the South West. The Yoruba Constitutional Conference held on Wednesday, February 12, 2014 was convened by leading Pan Yoruba Organisations: Afenifere Renewal Group, Coalition of Odua Self Determination Groups, which includes Odua Peoples Congress, (OPC), Odua National Coalition, (ONAC), Atayese, Covenant Group, Afenifere Youth Forum (AYF) and Odua Foundation. It also had in attendance, prominent traditional rulers and Yoruba leaders, which include the Secretary General, Conference of South West Obas, Oba Aderemi Adadapo, the Oludo of IdoOsun, General (Rtd) Alani Akinrinade, Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye, Chief Iyiola Oladokun, Honourable Wale Oshun, Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN), Professor Ademola Ariyo, Professor Dayo Oyekole Other eminent personalities on the occasion included: Professor Kola Owolabi, Dr (Mrs) Keziah Awosika, General (Rtd) O.K Fasasi, General R.A Adesina, Chief Segun Odegbami, Barrister Ramon Shenge, Mr Ayo Afolabi, Mrs Jumoke Anifowose, Mr. Tunde Fagbenle, Chief Tunde Odanye, Comrade Moshood Erugbami, Chief Lai Oyeduntan, Chief Ayo Abereoran, Comrade Razaq Olokooba, Barrister Gbenga Awosode, Comrade Rotimi Obadofin among others. All had gathered to discuss the Yoruba agenda and find a common ground that will address the social, economic and political challenges of the race and harmonize positions that will further strengthen the development of the region within Nigeria system. Most of the participants faulted the modalities for the proposed national conference. It was argued that the representation recommended by Senator Okunrunmu was far from the expectations of Nigerians in relation to ethnic organizations. Also that the effort towards a national conference by President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration is suspicious, as it is glaring that the President lacks the will and sincerity of purpose to midwife a genuine conference. Core issues at the constitutional conference included continuous decline of cultural and historical relevance of the race, resources control, the current federal structure in the country, and inappropriate geographical delineation of south west geopolitical zone, which left many Yoruba-speaking states out of the zone among others. Honourable Wale Oshun, Chairman of ARG set pace for discussion at the conference and condemned the modalities that muffled the conference, especially the unity or indissolubility of the country, which the Federal Government said is a no-going area. Oshun said that the Yoruba A
•Delegates at Yoruba Constitutional Confab… in Ibadan recently. By KEHINDEAYANTUNJI
constitutional conference is a further signpost of the collective wishes and desire of the Yoruba people and that the space is a demonstration that Yoruba people do move in the same direction to achieve common goals and objectives. “Those of us who love Nigeria so much argued following the murder of Nigeria’s President-elect, Chief M.K.O Abiola in 1998, that transition into fullblown democracy in 1999 should be preceded by a Nigerian dialogue and complete restructuring. “Opponents argued that immediate return to democracy would resolve all the issues. Now we all know that fifteen years after, the decline in governance has become total. Whisperings for dialogue and restructuring have turned into loud expressions manifesting in the invidious creations of Boko Haram, Niger-Delta militancy, kidnappings, bare-faced treasury looting, impunity, as well as the inability of governments at various levels to deliver on issues of good governance.” Oshun said further that for the Yoruba people, the conference, if it would serve any purpose, would constitute a platform for give and take, stressing that it is no longer necessary to attempt to justify the need for an urgent restructuring of the country. This is so, according to him, if not restructure urgently, “we may all have signed the death knell of the country”. He said: “Those going for broke and would rather have status-quo remain; have their case already made for them. Why go to the conference then? We state categorically that key Yoruba restructuring are well-known demands that had crystallized in a period covering almost two decades in the document now described as Yoruba Agenda, which we have fully published in today’s programme.” He posited that Yoruba delegates shall not allow a return to the status-quo of a unitary mode of government, and may not mind being pushed out of the Union if a true Federation is impossible and that those who may push contrary at the conference must not be allowed soft landing return. Mr Kayode Samuel, who delivered
the lecture on ‘’What Nigeria And Its Federating Units Are Losing By Not Restructuring,” decried the decline in infrastructures and economy in the region, contrary to the vision of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and expressed deep concern that Yorubas are losing their leadership in academic community, banking sector and the media, which had placed the South West above all other regions in the past. Samuel identified education, economy, resource control and political restructuring proposals as key issues to be addressed at the conference beyond the federal character or allocation of political offices to the zone, arguing that the concern of Yoruba is not who heads any office, but how an ordinary man on the streets will live a better and conducive life. He said: “I read a news item in the media recently, which I considered as an insult to the Yoruba race that the Presidency is considering the South West for the CBN Governor, or Controller General of Custom Services to compensate the zone. That is not our problem. Our priority is a system that will make life more abundant for the generality of our people.” Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN), while contributing at the conference, condemned the “no-go area indicated in the modalities of the conference and urged the delegates not to fear in agitating for resource control and tasked the leaders to form a think-tank committee that will chart a genuine cause for the South West. Senator Durojaiye, a leading NADECO activist, advocated adoption of the 1960 Constitution, which recognised regional government, saying the present system is too cumbersome. Most of the self-determination groups followed the suit. OPC, Atayese, Apapo Omo Yoruba, the Covenant Group, Agbekoya Reformed Group among others, insisted that return to regionalization and adoption of Yoruba agenda for the zone should be the only condition for Nigeria unity. Yoruba-speaking people from Kogi and Kwara States however demanded creation of a new state and geographical re-delineation of the 12 Yoruba-speaking local government
council areas in Kogi and 7 Yorubaspeaking council areas in Kwara to form part of the South West. After much deliberation, the conference agreed for more consultation of Yoruba leaders before the commencement of the national conference. In a communiqué issued at the end of conference read by Asiwaju Bisi Adegbuyi, the constitutional conference resolved among others on federated regions with liberty to retain, modify or completely alter the present atomistic state structure. Also that the Yoruba people indigenous in the present Kwara, Kogi, Edo, and Delta states, whose territories are contiguous with the rest of Yorubaland must belong to the same regional government, as the rest of the Yoruba in Nigeria. They also agreed on parliamentary system of government, insisting that it is preferred and less-expensive to operate, when compared to the presidential system with regional constitutions, as was the case in the 50s and 60s. On resource control, the conference rejected fiscal parasitism and insisted that each region shall have and exercise control over its natural resources, subject only to payment of 25% of net earnings to the government of the union and resolved that the present Nigeria Police Force be abolished and replaced with a new policing system, reflecting the true character of a Federal Union such as Union Police, State/Regional police, Community police to decentralise the power of the police. On defence, the conference proposed that the Armed Forces in the new Nigeria Federation shall be organised on the basis of strong Regional Commands and that should the aforementioned be unacceptable to other ethnic nationalities in Nigeria, Yoruba shall interprete it to forceful rejection from present Nigerian state. The constitutional conference however mandated General (Rtd) Alani Akinrinade to immediately organise and convene an all-inclusive Pan-Yoruba Conference for the purpose of spelling out the details of the Yoruba approach to the national conference.
OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, March 1, 2014
PHOTOTALK
State Of Osun Education: Compare And Contrast Between Governor Rauf Aregbesola And Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola’s Administrations As Compiled By GBENGA ADENIYI.
•An ongoing school project at Laro-Timehin Middle School, Isale-Osun, Osogbo under the administration of Governor Rauf Aregbesola.
•Laro-Timehin Primary School, Isale-Osun, Osogbo, under the administration of former Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola.
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•An ongoing school project at L.A. Elementary School in Ilesa under the administration of Governor Aregbesola.
•L.A Primary School, Ilesa, under the administration of former Governor Oyinlola.
•A water system toilet for pupils of Ilare Central Elementary School, Ile-Ife under the administration of Governor Aregbesola.
•A toilet for pupils at L.A Elementary School, Ilesa, under the administration of Governor Oyinlola
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PHOTOTALK
OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, March 1, 2014
Progressive Governors Forum Meeting At Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasigba, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria Last Monday.
•The Deputy Governor, State of Osun, Otunba (Mrs) Titi Laoye-Tomori; Governor Murtala Nyako of Adamawa State; Senator Abiola Ajimobi, Oyo State and governor and Pastor Tunde Bakare.
•Ajimobi; Deputy Governor, State of Osun, Laoye-Tomori and Dr, Kayode Fayemi, Ekiti State governor.
•General Muhammadu Buhari, APC National Leader; Chief Bisi Akande, APC National Chairman and Pastor Bakare.
OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, March 1, 2014
PHOTOTALK
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Omoluabi Support Group (OSG) Paid A Courtesy Visit To State Of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, In His Office, In Osogbo, Last Thursday. Photo: GBENGAADENIYI.
• (L-R) Chief of Staff to State of Osun Governor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola; Governor Rauf Aregbesola; Deputy Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Honourable Kolawole Taiwo and State of Osun Head of Service, Mr Sunday Owoeye, at the event.
•(L-R) Chief Taiwo Ogunjobi; President, Oranmiyan Worldwide, Prince Felix Awofisayo and OSG Chairman, Pastor Olu Alagbe.
•Some of the OSG members from Lagos during the courtesy visit to the governor. •
•A cross section of OSG members on the occasion.
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PHOTOTALK
OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, March 1, 2014
Some Of The Completed Roads In The State Of Osun Under The Administration Of Governor Rauf Aregbesola, As Captured By Our Cameraman, GBENGA ADENIYI, Across Osun Recently.
•An newly asphalted road at Ikoyi in Ilesa.
•An asphalted completed road at Ijaregbe, Ijebu-Ijesa.
•Another asphalted road at Amuta road, Ilesa.
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FEATURE
OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, March 1, 2014
Markets As Tourists Attraction The world of buying and selling is so vast that in these days of hi-tech a M simple device such as a smart phone can be used to close a transaction ARKETS and market
places are two things that we cannot historically take away from our cultural heritage as Africans. A quick peep into the historical development of most African states revealed that towns were developed around markets. Even in modern day Nigeria, some cultures still maintain their market days which come up every five days. Markets are so important that some cultures venerate them and have feasts during which certain gods are honoured. In some cultures, especially the Yoruba civilisation, the leader of the market women holds a chieftaincy title (Iyalode) which brings her at par with her male counterparts and we have even seen cases where some of these leaders of market women became extremely strong, wealthy and influential. Efunsetan Aniwura of Ibadanland and Efunroye Tinubu of Lagos are shinning examples. Modernity came and some towns with a little bit of developed infrastructure abandoned the market days tradition and adopted the building of modern market shops and stalls, but notwithstanding, some societies still endured with it and its turn up again to be a strong force. Osun, being a state that has a generality of farmers, also has an abundance of markets, based both on the line of the traditional market days system or the developed stall or shops on a permanent basis. Some of these markets with time had grown from being big places of commerce, interaction and exchange of cultural values to becoming a nuisance. This is due in part to the nonplanning of extension of these markets, as the towns that hosted them grew to the extent that on some market days, there would be a deadlock of activities in such towns until the markets are over. Upon resumption of office of the present administration in the State of Osun, plans were in the pipeline to modernise the market system and centralise some of them, just like we have in other states of the Federation, where markets have become centres of tourists’ attraction. Popular amongst them are the Tejuosho Market, Lagos Island; Jankara; Sangross; Aswani; Balogun Markets, all in Lagos. Onitsha International Market in Onitsha, Aleshinloye and Gbagi Markets in Ibadan and so on. Coming to the State of Osun, the old practice of market days is still very much in force. There is Oja titun in Ile-Ife, Olufi Market in Gbongan, Atakunmosa Market in Ilesa, Alamisi Market in Ikirun, Sekona Market in Sekona Ede, Kolanut Market in Garage Olode and so on. Tourism And Markets. Why? Markets back in the olden days ware an avenue for traders to travel from one region to the other in order to trade.
even from one’s living-room. We are not focusing on such a wonderful definition of market in this piece but rather as we used to and still have it in our African setting. This piece by Francis Ezediuno is about how markets can be used as a tool for tourism re-awakening in the country with special emphasis on the State of Osun.
•An ongoing project at Ayegbaju Market under the administration of Governor Aregbesola’s administration. By BAMIGBOLA GBOLAGUNTE
In the process of doing that, cultures are exported, traditions are exchanged, religious worship were imbibed and marriages were contracted. This was tourism, as it afforded traders the chance to visit some places of interests after the day’s business. This still exists today, as buyers and sellers from one community travel to another in order to trade. To emphasize the seriousness with which the government takes the issue of markets in the state, the decision to construct a big warehouse at Dagbolu, under a programme known as O’Hub in Olorunda Local Government Council Area of the state was decided upon and also the construction of two strategic markets within the state capital Osogbo; Aje International Market along IwoIbadan Road and Ayegbaju International Market, GbonganIbadan Road, all in Osogbo. With the completion of the warehouse at Dagbolu, trading between Osun and other South-West states would be conducted through the Nigerian Railway, which is also another vehicle for enhancing the tourism sector of the state. O’Hub would provide traders in Osun the chance of taking their goods to other parts of the South-West like
Ibadan, Abeokuta, Lagos and so on for free, while goods from other south-western states would come into the state also for free. Taking a look at the modern markets under development; that is both Aje and Ayegbaju International Markets, it would enhance the aesthetic and landscape of the host communities, bringing in an influx of people. Realistically, with the establishment of these two international markets in the state capital, which would be connected by rail and air; the MKO Abiola International Cargo Airport, Ido-Osun coupled with the fact that the yearly Osun-Osogbo festival holds in the state. The markets at least would be an interesting place to visit and buy interesting items ranging from souvenirs and so on. Since both markets are intended for the international space, efforts should not be spared to truly give it the outlook it so deserved. We should note that markets of old were also places of exchanges of diverse depths and so notwithstanding the international tones that future markets in the State of Osun would take, the possibility for a diverse exchange of cultural, traditional and religious beliefs should be looked into. The governments in Osun both immediate and present have been known to be both tourism and
investment friendly and a market friendly State of Osun as Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola is going about would be the better for it. My advocation is for the market system in the state to be conducted along the old system but with a modern touch to it in the area of modern infrastructural development. A library detailing the history of the people and the market should be incorporated. These days malls are the in thing. Whether private or government owned, the truth is that it usually comes with its own design and beauty. Grand malls exist in choice cities across Nigeria. Good examples being that of SilverBird Galleria, ShopRite and so on. Customers visit these ‘shops’ not only to buy, but as a form of window shopping. This is what most Nigerians do when they visit Dubai, Paris, New York or London for vacations. They come home with souvenirs and this is what these big-time shop owners are replicating in the country. Such a splendid idea should be allowed to take root in this state. Trado-cultural and religious festivals are special avenues where tourists flock into Osun and this would be a good time to achieve and meet the tourism potentials of this state further.
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OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, March 1, 2014
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IN RETROSPECT
OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, March 1, 2014
A Memorable Quote From A PDP Aspirant In The State Of Osun
“Recently, Chief Bola Ige came on radio here (Osogbo the state capital), to insult me and my family. THAT IS THE LAST TIME HE WOULD INSULT ME. He was bea ten yesterday. The people of IleIfe beat him up and he was crying like a baby, as they removed his cap and glasses. If it had been at a political gathering, he will be dead by now..... In fact, what the people wanted to do was more than removing his glasses and cap....” -IYIOLA OMISORE. •Culled from Vanguard Newspaper.
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OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, March 1, 2014
Job Vacancies In Nigeria British American Tobacco (BAT) recruitment for Electrical Technicians British American Tobacco is a market leading, global organisation with a long, established history and a bright and dynamic future. Thanks to our people we have continued to deliver growth and exceed expectations in an increasingly complex and challenging marketplace. Our aim is to become the leading tobacco company in each of our markets by providing excellent products with confidence and responsibility expected of global consumer brands. We are recruiting to fill the position of: Job Title: Electrical Technician Job Number: 3463BR Location/City: Ibadan Essential requirements OND in Electrical engineering Minimum of one year working experience in an FMCG or a manufacturing company. Good analytical ability Desirable requirements Knowledge of production processes and computer literacy. Must be a Team Player Job Purpose To ensure the reduction of breakdown on SMD and FRMD machines and achieve maximum availability and OEE through effective provision of electrical support to all SMD production equipment in line with best practices, at an effective cost, in a hygienic and safe working environment. Business Results: Provide technical support to production machines in Secondary Manufacturing Department (SMD) and Filter Rod Deparment (FRD). Ensures month on month reduction in electrical downtime in the Cell Implementation of downtime analysis of SMD machines in the Cell Ensure electrical issues are resolved and captured daily Ensure all checks and reports are up to date Ensure faults are fix as soon as it happened Ensure maximum machine availability and efficiency through prompt attendance to electrical issues on the machine Provide in-house training to electro technical staff when the need arises to improve technical skill. Implement Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) audit recommendations and ensure all guards are intact and working. Attend to technical call out request from SMD Cell Managers. People Objectives: Ensure Cigarette Inspection Device and Waste Measuring Control Units are optimized for better performance Ensure that there is adequate communications about pending jobs for other shifts to follow - the description of such pending jobs must be clear, concise and technical in nature to aid in problem solving Continuously looking for better ways of carrying out repair and resolving issues Installing new and existing equipment upgrade Ensure all quality parameters and detectors are optimized and maintained to ensure waste is minimized. Effective and efficient deployment of resources. Ensure downtime and root cause analysis is done regularly Ensure spares usage is controlled, captured and reviewed . Method of Application Interested and qualified candidates should: https://krb-xjobs.brassring.com/TGWebHost/jobdetails.aspx? Application Deadline 10th March, 2014 —————————————————— Recent Jobs in a Solar Energy Company in Abuja A Leading Solar Energy Company in Abuja urgently needs the following job Positions below: Location: Abuja Job Title: Marketer/Secretary Requirement Must be a female. Minimum of HND/B.SC in any field. Hausa speaking is an added advantage. Job Title: Accountant Requirement Must be a female. Minimum of HND/B.SC Accounting. Hausa speaking is an added advantage. How to Apply Interested and qualified candidates should forward their CV’s to: joealuko2012@gmail.com Application Deadline 10th March, 2014. —————————————————— Lagos Job for an Administrative Officer at SSM Nigeria SSM Nigeria - Our client is a leading and fast-expanding IT products retailer/Distributor. Our vision is to be the No.1 IT retailer by 2015. We owe our success over the years to the innovation, dedication and commitment of our employees. The Company Established 8 years ago in Lagos with branches in Abuja, Port Harcourt and South West zone. Having Served over 25,000 Customers. The company is now launching an eCommerce platform, and need services of: Administrative Staff to manage staff/ accounts. SSM Nigeria is recruiting to fill the position below: Job Title: Administrative Officer Location: Lagos Responsibilities Work with Management & External Consultants for both HR/Accounts to achieve set goals for the department. Analysis and management of all staff To make sure that employees adhere to all company rules and regulations Accounting Functions - Stocks Management, financial statements, management reporting, and administration. Good Communication skills. Keep track and reports of all staff duties such as leave and formulate necessary disciplinary actions when directed. Supervise all duties that may be assigned to all junior staff Carry out payroll activities Requirements Proficient Computer skills and knowledge Must possess interpersonal communication skills Minimum of OND. Must be smart, attentive to detail, and be able to multitask. FEMALES only. For Maximum Efficiency we use mainly HRM solution, Quick books, so personnel must be willing to learn and hungry to improve the tools used. Must Live within Ikeja, Agege, Ogba and environs. How to Apply Interested and qualified candidates should send their resume to: adminrole@laseconsulting.com Application Deadline 3rd March, 2014. —————————————————— Graduate Jobs in Lagos for Microbiologist/Food Scientists,Biochemists,Veterinary Doctors,Engineers,Account and Admin Officers Our client is a Lagos based Company into Sales, Distribution and Training on life Science, Veterinary and Pharmaceutical products. We seek the services of the following personnel.
Microbiologist/Food Science and Tech (B.Sc/B.Tech) Biochemist (B.Sc) Account and Admin Officer (B.Sc) Engineer (Mech,Elect,Compt) (B.Eng) Veterinary Doctor (D.V.M) REQUIREMENTS: Applicants must have flare for Sales and Marketing. Must have a good communication and Computer skills. Applicants for position 1-3 must not be more than 26 years and for position 4-5, Applicants must not be more than 28 years of age. 0-2 Years post NYSC Experience. ALL APPLICANTS FOR POSITION 1, 2, 4 AND 5 MUST HAVE GOOD DRIVING SKILLS WITH A VALID DRIVER’S LICENCE. How to Apply Interested candidates should send an Application with C.V. attached within 10 days of Publication to careers@inselconsultingng.com Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. —————————————————— Current Vacancies in a a Chemical and Paint organization First Choice Leasing Limited - Our client, a chemical and paint organization requires experienced and performance driven candidates to vacant position of: Job Title: Manager, Marketing Location: Lagos Qualifications: HND/BSc from a recognized Nigerian University . Possession of MBA will be added advantage. Candidate must have worked in a Paint or Construction industry for a minimum of 5yrs. Reports direct to the Managing Director. Job Title: Sales Executive Location: Lagos Reports to the Marketing Manager. Qualifications: HND or BSc from a recognized Nigerian University. 2 years Experience in a Chemical/Paint or Construction industry. Method of Application Interested qualified candidates should send their resume to: lilian@firstchoiceleasingltd.com within one week from the date of this advertisement. Only shortlisted candidates would be contacted. Application Deadline 2nd March, 2013 —————————————————— Personal Assistant Job Vacancy in Lagos at Betrand Motors Limited Betrand Motors Limited is recruiting to fill the position of: Job Title: Personal Assistant Location: Lagos Requirements Ability to help the director make the best use of time in dealing with administrative and secretarial tasks. Ability to handle work efficiently in the absence of the director Ability to use discretion and confidentiality in handling official matters Candidate must possess excellent communication skills Must have telephone etiquette Candidate must be proficient in the use of Microsoft applications Must be above 35 years Job Description: To provide administrative support for the Director devising and maintaining office systems, including data management and filing; arranging travel, visas and accommodation and, occasionally, travelling with the manager to take notes or dictation at meetings or to provide general assistance during presentations; liaising with clients, suppliers and other staff. carrying out specific projects and research; responsibility for accounts and budgets; taking on some of the manager’s responsibilities and working more closely with management; deputising for the manager, making decisions and delegating work to others in the manager’s absence; being involved in decision-making processes. screening phone calls, enquiries and requests, and handling them when appropriate; meeting and greeting visitors at all levels of seniority; organising and maintaining diaries and making appointments; dealing with incoming email, faxes and post, often corresponding on behalf of the manager; taking dictation and minutes; carrying out background research and presenting findings; producing documents, briefing papers, reports and presentations; organising and attending meetings and ensuring the manager is well prepared for meetings; Qualification: BSC/HND from a reputable institution. Method of Application Qualified candidates should send CVs to: infobetrandmotors@yahoo.com on or before 24th March 2014, using the position applied for as the subject. Application Deadline 24th March, 2014 —————————————————— Medical Sales Representative wanted in a Baby Food company in Abuja, Benin, Port Harcourt, Calabar, and Lagos An internationally renowned Baby Food company producing and marketing baby foods products throughout the world is looking to recruit strong individuals with drive and ambition, positive can do attitude and willingness/ability to learn and grow; as it expands its operations within Nigeria, to fill the positions below: Job Position: Medical Sales Representative Ref: MSP 101 Location: Abuja, Benin, Port Harcourt, Calabar, Lagos Responsibilities Detail HCP’s (Health Care Professionals) with the appropriate level of scientific and commercial argumentation to recommend the products. Build & manage strong relationships to targeted HCPs and mapping the decision making networks in the region. Organize local symposia/seminars with HCPs as required. Contact and gain hospital listings to create product usage and brand awareness at mothers e.g via tenders, rotatories and negotiating Analyze & identify business opportunities in the assigned area and develop plan & tactics to realize the opportunities. Requirements Have a degree in Nutrition/Dietetics, Pharmacy, Biochemistry, Microbiology(or any other related course) with a minimum of 18 months experience. Have a valid drivers license. Hands on experience in field work in the medical or pharmaceutical Sales area (it would be appreciated). Be a self driven professional with excellent selling skills/ability. Have excellent communication skills (inclusive of IT literacy). How to Apply Interested and qualified candidates should forward their applications with updated CV’s to: careers@alistergreene.com with job title, code and specific location prefered (as the subject of the mail). Note: Only shortlisted candidates would be contacted. Application Deadline 18th March, 2014. ——————————————————
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OSUN DEFENDER Saturday, March 1, 2014
National Directorate Of Employment (NDE) Team Paid A Courtesy Visit To The State Of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Last Tuesday.
(L-R) The deputy governor, State of Osun, Otunba (Mrs) Titi Laoye-Tomori; Governor, Rauf Aregbesola and Zonal Director, South-West, National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Mr Ola Martins, during a courtesy visit to the governor in Osogbo last Tuesday.
•Aregbesola (3rd left); his deputy (2nd left); Martins (3rd left); State Coordinator, NDE, Mr Sola Daramola (2nd right); Deputy Director, South-West, NDE, Mr Omiwale Taiwo (right), during the courtesy visit to the governor in Osogbo last Tuesday.
Adeleke’s Family of Ila-Orangun Buried Their Mother, Princess Tejumade Adeleke, Recently In Ila-Orangun, State Of Osun. Photo: JESUDOYIN ABRAHAM
•Prince Adesoji Adeleke (Masilo); Chief Depo Ogunwale (Borepo) and members of the family of Adeleke at the burial.
•The Special Adviser to Osun Governor on Civil and Public Matters, Comrade Waheed Lawal and Prince Adesoji Adeleke, during the burial.
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SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014
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HE recent suspension of the Central Bank Governor, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi continues to dominate media and public discourse. As a person, I am not interested in the propriety of it or otherwise, but my frank assessment is that we have serious issues at hand to handle than the suspension of the CBN governor. This is not to say that if there is infraction on the part of the suspended CBN governor, he should not be sanctioned. However, like some commentators have argued, the time was inauspicious. This again depends on the angle at which a person is looking at it. For the supporters of President Goodluck Jonathan, the suspension was even belated, considering the fact that a query had been issued to him in April 2013. The President even toyed with the idea that Sanusi should offer to resign, which he refused outrightly preferring to go when his tenure was due to end in June this year. This school of thought holds the view that, even though it is not expressly stated in the Central Bank Act that the governor can be suspended, the fact that the President puts forward the name of the CBN governor to the Senate means, he has the power to ask him to step aside for investigation to be carried out on his activities. The other school of thought posits that the oversight power the President holds over the CBN governor is to remove him from office with the concurrence of two-thirds majority of the senate. Interestingly, Sanusi’s attorneys have reached out to the law court asking for some reliefs. The coincidence of the query to Sanusi and the allegation of non-remittances of certain money by the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) into the Federation Account, which for now is not certain, has further compounded the issue at hand. The first school of thought holds the view that if Sanusi was given query in April 2013 and he blew the whistle in September, a clear five months later, who does not know that his strategy is to use attack as his best form of defence? Critics also posit that the fact that Sanusi has been inconsistent with figures, which ordinarily ought to be at his finger-tips is a serious minus to him. Is Sanusi a whistle-blower? Some Nigerians have argued that he is not and cannot be because he is part of this government; in fact the chief banker? If that is so, why did the suspended CBN governor’s letter go public when it was meant for the attention of the President alone? Some mischief makers even posit that Sanusi deliberately leaked the
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Is The FG Not Chasing The Shadow?
•SANUSI
letter to the press. Inspite of the raging argument back and forth, I personally believe that we have left unattended to serious issues that need prompt attention. Is it true that billions of naira go down the drain in the form of subsidy on kerosene, whereas getting the product is not only herculean, but the price is beyond the ordinary masses? The perennial fuel queues are back at filling stations. Are we so helpless that we cannot get enough fuel for local consumption, which we produce for our citizens? It is a paradox that our farmer cannot feed his children, what an irony? Besides the allegation of nonremittance of money by the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation
(NNPC) into the Federation Account, which is the basis of this current brouhaha, there is something fundamental, which has been left unattended to. Since July last year, the federally collected revenue has continued to decline. According to the Niger State governor, Dr. Muazu Babangida, the states have continued to lose 40% forty per cent of what they were due. Incidentally, nobody seems to be concerned about the serious decline, which has significantly affected the performance of all the levels of government. Rather than find ways to stop oil theft through bunkering and damage of petroleum pipelines, we dissipate our energy on sacking or playing politics
with the lives of Nigerians. The current reality of dwindling fortunes of the country which has resulted in the delay of payment of salaries and slow space of construction work or stoppage in some cases ought to task the mental strength of our leaders. One effect of the dwindling revenue, which will come to fore very soon, is that our national currency will be weakened. This is so because we have been compelled to resort to the foreign reserves, which ordinarily could be used for the rainy day. No matter how strong our political will to defend the naira is, the dwindling amount in our reserve will undermine the effort. Ministries, Departments and Agencies are called upon to defend their budgetary projections in the parliament, yet we have left undiscussed the issue of how to generate more revenue. Whatever our plans and projections are in the budget, it pales into insignificance if we do not generate the income to match our projections. In view of this, Jonathan has to do more than the recently live media-chat to convince his countrymen that he is equal to the task. If things continue to degenerate at this rate with the incessant massacre of innocent citizens in the North-East geopolitical zone, dwindling national revenue, fuel queues at filling stations, with its resultant high inflation, high level of corruption, Jonathan may be forced to ask why the economy has not collapsed. Nigerians will recall that during the regime of General Ibrahim Babangida (Rtd), he once asked why the economy he was presiding over had not collapsed. This was because he had tried all the pieces of advice offered by the technocrats and experts, yet there was no relief. Jonathan is seen in some quarters by the action of the suspension of Sanusi, as being sectional or partisan. For example, some people have argued that if Sanusi should go on suspension, then the Managing Director of NNPC, Mr Andrew Yakubu should also follow suit. Critics have even asked that inspite of the public outcry on the outrageous prices of BMW cars allegedly purchased by the former Aviation Minister, Ms Stella Oduah, it took the President time to act. Mr President should be seen to be firm and fair to all that would not only help his image, but build confidence in the citizens. I am of the candid view that President Jonathan has tarried to announce his interest in 2015 presidential elections because he sees it as inauspicious.
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.