www.osundefender.org tuesday, february 10, 2015 The decision of All Progressives Congress candidate not to take part in a socalled Presidential debate generated a short-lived debate. The debate, in the first place was unwarranted.
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Debating The Non-debatable- By Duro Onabule Read elsewhere on this page for that far-sighted view expressed in this column on December 19, 2014. The unwarranted debate was the one organized by a socalled election debate
Which group? Under which authority? Who made the debate group judges over, okay salesmen of our political or voting intention or even the presidential aspirations of the candidates? It is all part of a veiled
scheme to handicap a particular candidate in favour of the other in a contest in which one candidate has at his command our entire national resources embracing unlimited patron-
Otherwise, the muchtouted constitutional conference populated largely by President Goodluck Jonathan’s proteges rejected debate
as an integral part of Nigeria’s political/ electoral set-up. That conference was the latest official attempt to standardize our poliContinue on pg6
Governorship Tribunal’s Ver dict:
It’s All Over For PDP In Osun - APC - See Story On Page 2
Nigeria Army- Pg 3 Captain Confesses How PDP Rigging Failed In Osun
Outrage Over - Pg 5
•A mammoth crowd during the rally. INSET: The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (2nd right), addressing the mammoth crowd of All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters and members at the Senatorial, House Of Representatives and State House Of Assembly rally in Ile-Ife, State of Osun recently. With him are, his deputy, Otunba (Mrs) Grace Titi Laoye-Tomori (2nd left); Senator Jide Omoworare (right) and Honourable Foluke Etteh (left).
Election Shift: Osun Speaker Charges Nigerians To Be Vigilant - Pg 3
Election Shift: PDP Only Postpones Its Doomsday - Osun APC
- See Story On Page 2
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osun Defender Tuesday, February 10, 2015
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Tribunal’s Verdict: It’s All Over For PDP In Osun APC T he State of Osun chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has reiterated that ‘it is all over for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state’, while reacting to the victory the party secured last Friday at the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal over PDP’s challenge of Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s defeat of Senator Iyiola Omisore in the August 9, 2014 governorship election. According to the party’s spokesman, Barrister Kunle Oyatomi, in a statement value of PDP/Omisore case made available to news men will not only ostracise the in Osogbo: “PDP has so PDP, he or she will find disgraced and diminished it difficult to place any itself in the eyes of Osun significant worth on the people that today, it has party’s current leadership become the least credible capacity to run government. “As currently constituted, and the most ridiculous party that any sane person would Osun PDP leadership is want to touch with the longest delinquent in intellectual capacity, suffers severe of poles.” The party further stated d i s a b i l i t y i n c i v i l i s e d that whoever listened to the political conduct and lacks tribunal’s judgment on the the decency to be responsible players in the politics of Osun
By abosede akinpelu
and Nigeria in general. “The history of the PDP in Osun since 2003 , is pathetic. Instead of good governance, it has been fraught with all manners of violence, political shenanigans, leadership back-stabbing and fraudulent upstaging of constituted authority. And when the combined effect of these vile behaviours hit the party in 2010, the PDP has been in a free fall. So, since 2007, it has not won any election in the state. “The APC is therefore, of the opinion that with the latest defeat at the tribunal,
the PDP has exhausted it’s electoral value and can never again matter in the politics of the state, except t h e p a r t y u n d e rg o e s a comprehensive dismantling and restructuring,” the APC declared. Even at that, the APC contended that the PDP has so damaged itself that it is unlikely to recover in the next decades. According to the APC, a party which has degenerated to the level of lying to itself (as Osun PDP did in the last four years), and believing its lies so much that it could
•TOP LEFT: The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (with mic), addressing his admirers. With him are, Senator Sola Adeyeye (3rd right); State of Osun APC Chairman, Prince Gboyega Famodun (4th left); and others, during the All Progressive Congress (APC) Senatorial, House of Representatives and House of Assembly rally in Ila-Orangun, State of Osun, recently.
mobilise its few supporters donning ‘aso ebi’, onto the streets to jubilate over a phantom victory at a tribunal case which was yet to be decided, has demonstrated a pathological descent into delirium, worse than that of addicted drug users. “It is the reason the
tribunal’s verdict last Friday dealt PDP a fatal blow from which it can hardly recover,” the APC said.
Election Shift: PDP Only Postpones Its Doomsday - Osun APC
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he shift in the election dates, orchestrated by the Peoples Democratic Party has been described as ‘a wanton conspiracy against democracy in Nigeria’. The party further said This was the reaction of the All Progressives it did not know ‘how far Congress in the State of this joke on our collective Osun to the INEC’s decision intelligence as a nation will to change the general go. But certainly, what is election dates from February not in contention is that the 14 and 28 to March 28 and Jonathan administration has further ridiculed all of us in April 11. The APC, through its the estimation of the entire spokesman, Barr Kunle world. “The issue here”, Oyatomi, said ‘no matter the intention of the conspirators according to the APC, “is in effecting the changes, not that Attahiru Jega and it will only strengthen INEC were unprepared for the resolve of Nigerians the elections, but it was the to vote out the PDP from faltering and incompetent office, describing the shift Federal Government which told us that it could not as ‘disgraceful’. The APC asserted that the provide security for INEC action has further dampened to do its job”. the sad image which the The APC however, said PDP has given Nigerians in “no matter the number of the comity of nations as ‘an times Jonathan and his incompetent, disorganised cohorts decide to shift the and unserious group of election, the PDP’s federal people, that cannot manage government is doomed to a their political, social and comprehensive defeat. economic affairs. “No obstacle, no contrived while, nor deception, nor devious stratagem can stop Nigerians this time around from effecting the change that the country so badly Oluwa area, where the PDP needs.” secretariat is located and it is The party therefore, deserted by its members who had earlier stationed musical appeals to the millions of instruments at the place in its supporters throughout anticipation of a purported the country to stand firm and redouble their resolve victory. to vote out ‘this faltering Jonathan’s government which has brought Nigerians to shame and disgrace in the international community’.
Osun Agog Over Tribunal Judgment
•Residents Defy Downpour
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By shina abubakar
s the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal that sat in the State of Osun declared the incumbent Governor Rauf Aregbesola as the valid winner of the August 9, 2014 governorship election held in the state, thousands of residents thronged the streets of Osogbo to celebrate the verdict of the court. Initially in the day, tension stationed at Oke-Fia to show built up in the town, as some solidarity for the party’s chieftains of the opposition course, however, as rumours party in the state boasted of what transpired began around that they had secured to filter out through social the judgment of the tribunal media, they csneaked out of in favour of their candidate. the venue. Loyalists of the All As the verdict of the Progressives Congress (APC), tribunal finally filtered into who could not get a place in town, many people were the court, held vigil at the seen joining the crowd at Oke-Fia roundabout for over Oke-Fia, while another group seven hours that the judgment gathered at Old-Garage and lasted, anticipating the final Olaiya junctions, jubilating verdict of the tribunal. the popular verdict. The party supporters, who First among politicians to thronged the Oke-Fia area of be seen was the immediatethe state, as early as 8.00am, p a s t C o m m i s s i o n e r f o r waited till about 4:30 pm, Information and Strategy, Mr when the tribunal had its Sunday Akere, whose convoy final verdict on the matter traversed through major and busted into jubilant mood, streets in the state capital, despite the heavy presence of celebrating the victory. security operatives. While addressing the Not even the use of tear crowd at Oke-Fia, Akere gas by the anti-riot policemen urged them to celebrate the in the area could disperse victory with love and should the jubilant crowd from the not attack anybody even popular junction. in the face of provocation, Initially, in the morning, saying the opposition would supporters of the PDP, who try all means to cause trouble. could not find their way into He said the PDP has finally the court premises, were also been exposed as a party
that thrives in falsehood, especially in the state, adding that from the build up to the election last year, the PDP had been lying to the teeming populace of the state. Few minutes later, the governor led a convoy from the Government House at the GRA in what could be described as parade of victory across major streets of the
state capital to acknowledge cheers from the crowd and prove critics wrong that he was not in town. The governor was seen standing on his sky-blue Peugeot Bus despite the downpour to acknowledge cheers from his supporters, who also defied the rain to show solidarity with the governor on his deserved victory. The convoy was so long that it created a traffic gridlock from Oke-Fia to Olaiya-Ogo-
Oyintiloye Lauds Osun Tribunal Over Judgement
By kazeem mohammed he All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Obokun State Constituency seat in the State of Osun House of Assembly, Mr Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has said the re-affirmation of Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s re-election by the election petition tribunal was another victory for democracy and the people of the state. He said the judgement of re-election of Aregbesola. In his reaction to the the tribunal was a pointer to the imminent change judgement, Oyintiloye in the coming general said from the beginning of elections, when, according the case, it was clear that to him, the APC would be the PDP and Omisore had elected to take the mantle nothing to present to defend of leadership in the country. any of the allegations The Justice Elizabeth contained in their petition. He said, Osun people Ikpejime-led tribunal had on Friday dismissed the have decided to support petition of the Peoples Aregbesola and the APC Democratic Party (PDP) and the tribunal has affirmed governorship candidate, the victory, commending Iyiola Omisore, against the the tribunal judges for
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not sacrificing their agelong integrity for a pot of porridge. “The judgement is a victory for democracy and the wish of the people, as all the efforts of the PDP to upturn the tenet of democracy failed. “The tribunal judges have to be commended for turning down the alleged financial overture made to them by the petitioners and their display of high integrity has shown that this nation would survive the hurdles we have been subjected to by the federal forces. Congratulating the governor and the people of the state for the victory, he urged the people of the state
to replicate their gesture during the fast-approaching general elections and elect APC candidates, with a view to changing the country for the better. He said, all Nigerians are tired of the PDP and ready to vote the party out of government, adding that the general acceptance of the APC and its candidates has thrown the PDP into confusion. According to him, this is the basic reason why the ruling PDP was hell-bent on postponing the election, saying the postponement of the polls could not in any way avail the PDP or restore its lost relevance.
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Osun Defender Tuesday, February
Nigeria Army Captain Confesses How PDP Rigging Failed In
•Arrested APC Members Confirms Confeshe Nigeria Military Intelligence Officer, leaked to the leadership of perfectly in Ekiti State, to
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Captain Sagir Koli, who secretly leaked how the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) rigged the governorship election in Ekiti and Osun states has finally open up on how the PDP failed in Osun August 9, 2014 election. He revealed how money officer, he was officially was shared openly at NYSC deployed as the 32 Artillery camp in Ede a day before B r i g a d e I n t e l l i g e n c e the election and why they Officer to provide credible forced the Nigerian Army intelligence to the success Construction Engineers of Ekiti State governorship Commandant, Brigadier election on June 2014. He said, a day to General Adeyemi, to proceed on a three-week t h e e l e c t i o n p r o p e r, compulsory leave, until h e a c c o m p a n i e d t h e after the election, just to commander, Brigadier General AA Momoh, to pave way for rigging. In document released Spotless Hotel in Ado Ekiti by Sahara Reporters to meet PDP candidate, Mr. and Premium Times, the Ayodele Fayose, Minister of officer in a statement titled: State for Defence, Musiliu “How Nigerian Army Obanikoro, Minister of personnel were used to Police Affairs, Alhaji Jelili rig Ekiti and Osun states Adesiyan, Iyiola Omisore, gubernatorial elections Honourable Abdulkareem in 20143”, Captain Sagir and a host of other top PDP Koli gave details of all that chieftains. It was at the meeting, transpired between himself, his commanding officer, according to him, they two ministers and some p e r f e c t e d h o w t h e y politicians, prior to the would rig Ekiti election elections in Ekiti and Osun. and secure victory in all He also spoke about the the 16 local government elaborate plans made to council areas and said they replicate the Ekiti scenario planned to replicate the in the State of Osun on same strategy in Osun, but August 9, 2014. failed woefully, as a result A c c o r d i n g t o t h e of the information that
All Progressives Congress (APC). The statement read: “Based on the aforementioned, they succeeded in rigging the Ekiti State election with victory in all the 16 local government council areas. These really inspired them and they were with the euphoria that same would happen in Osun State.” “In the preparation of the plans, they confirmed the posting of the commander and tasked him to prepare for Osun State election (remember that Osun State is not part of 32 Artillery Brigade Area of operations) but they ordered the Nigerian Army Construction Engineers Commander, Brigadier General Adeyemi, to proceed on a three-week compulsory leave until after the election, just to pave way for General Momah to repeat the same dirty work that he did for them in Ekiti State.” “In a build-up towards the Osun election, the commander directed me as his intelligence officer, who had worked with him
go ahead and reassess the area, as well as familiarize myself with all stakeholders for the election.” “While I and my team were working for the operations, the commander was in Abuja, re-strategizing how to use the military to rig the elections. Feelers based on my discussion with him on phone confirmed to me beyond reasonable doubt that we were repeating the same compromise in Osun State. “My heart got burnt and became disenchanted and in total disagreement with such, being a professional junior officer, aspiring to become a General tomorrow. “However, efforts to explain my grievances proved abortive due to the military dictatorial hierarchy in the channel of communication vis-a-vis threat of court martial from the commander. “I resorted to alert the APC high level officials with the aim of stopping the Army from partisan involvement during elections. A week to the
•Scarcity of Kerosene in Nigeria: Nigeria Policemen) and others queuing for kerosene in Bayelsa State.
By kehinde ayantunji
election, the commander came back from Abuja and he made revelations being their final arrangement on how the PDP was to become victorious in Osun State as follows: After welcome address by the Commander (Mommoh), he thanked all his staff officers, and said: “You all know who we are working for, so you guys MUST follow my direction. I am working for the presidency and the ruling party, as you all know, it is no longer a hidden thing. “For those of you who are moles among us, the presidency is watching you. Be careful because the consequence will be severe. I learnt that some of you went to Lagos and met with Tinubu without knowing that his line is already bugged at Abuja, then we are in trouble, but before somebody will kill me, I have to kill him first. (referring to me). “The commander asked how many of us were involved, that I should say the truth. He now held a secret talk with the operation officer and military police officer to
Photo: Sahara Reporter.
Election Shift: Osun Speaker Charges Nigerians To Be Vigilant
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By kazeem mohammed
peaker, State of Osun House of Assembly, Honourable Najeem Salaam, has charged Nigerians to be vigilant and refuse to rest on their oars as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was forced by the nation’s security agencies to postpone the general elections as suggested by the agents of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In a statement by his is being vitiated, while the Press Secretary, Mr. Goke body language of some Butika, Salaam stressed stakeholders is becoming that with the given scenario suspicious. that led to the postponement He then asked Nigerians o f t h e e l e c t i o n s , t h e to stand by the electoral independence of the INEC umpire, Professor Attahiru
Jega, who was reported to be the next target of vilification. “The orchestrated Plan “A” of the script thought to be in the realm of speculation was beginning to unfold reality, as the date of election shift proposed by the PDP was made real. “Now, the country should be watching out for the Plan “B”, which could be the sack of Professor Jega, having proved stubborn before he was cowed by
the security service chiefs. “It was unthinkable that the same soldiers that were not available for the elections were deployed to some cities earlier, with a view to stopping any form of protest against the election shift. “The same security agencies that could not halt the bombings, killings and destruction by the Boko Haram insurgents in the North East, in the last four years, have now chosen
not to be distracted in the prosecution of special six-week war against insurgency now,” he added. The Speaker then hinted that the APC would take the advantage of the extension to further expose the atrocities of the PDP in the last 16 years and keep the back of the ruling party to the wall until the game is over for them.
tie and handcuff me to Army HQs, and from there, I knew that my life was in danger. “The commander categorically told us that the soldiers were to work under PDP agents, while their platoon commanders were to only supervise the soldiers’ conduct. He briefed the officers that were working on the list of agents and those to be arrested at the SGF office in Abuja and once the list is out, everybody must work accordingly. “The commander briefed us on the formation of a strike-force in conjunction with the Police, DSS and NSCDC and he would command the strike force directly. Their duty was to work directly with the PDP candidate for arrest and intimidation of APC supporters in their stronghold. “Money was shared openly at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Ede to the strike force to ensure compliance,” Captain Koli said. To further substantiate his submission on how the military was deprofessionalized, he released the voice recording of the meeting in Ekiti and the mobile lines 08037033694, 08055832835, which they used to communicate during the process in Ekiti between June 20 to 21, 2014. However, some of the arrested APC members, who were blindfolded and detained at NYSC Camp in Ede confirmed the directives of the Commander, while he was addressing the soldiers. One of victims, who pleaded anonymity said: “The report was a true account of what transpired in Ede. We were arrested in Ilesa and transferred to the NYSC Camp in Ede, which served as the election military base. The commanding officer was giving instructions and warning to his officers to work for PDP and always listen to their directives. “They even threatened to kill some of us. They were sharing money openly to boost the morale of the military and attached them to the DSS men, who knew the route and familiar with the environment.” It would be recalled that some APC chieftains were arrested before and during the election by the military and transferred to the NYSC Camp in Ede and DSS office in Osogbo.
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osun Defender Tuesday, February
Osun Speaker Decries Insecurity, Corruption In Nigeria •As APC Campaigns In Ede, Egbedore
By kazeem mohammed
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Senator Isiaka Adeleke, candidate for Ede North He urged those who the candidate for Osun State Constituency and peaker of the State of Osun House of nation. Also, the APC leaders have not collected their West Senatorial District; Nurein Adebisi, candidate Assembly, Honourable Najeem Salaam, has decried the level of insecurity and corruption in i n E g b e d o r e , A l h a j i Permanent Voters’ Card Professor Mojeed Alabi, for Ede South State Nigeria, saying only the All Progressives Congress- Gbadebo Ajao, said the (PVC’s) to do so within the candidate for Ede Constituency. people of the constituency the remaining period for Federal Constituency; Speaking in his palace, led (APC) government can tackle the challenges. He stated this in Ede on Saturday, while addressing should be part of the the exercise to ensure Honourable Abiodun the Olokinni of Okinni, change presently going that they are able to vote Aw o l o l a , c a n d i d a t e Oba Akadiri Okanola, said crowd of APC members other party members to on in the state, just as they for the candidate of their f o r E g b e d o r e S t a t e the APC has demonstrated and sympathisers, during effect the desired change have demonstrated in the choice. Constituency; Honourable leadership quality that can the party’s electioneering in the interest of the past elections in the state. Part of the train were K a m a r d e e n A k a n b i , save the country from campaign in Ede/ Egbedore/Ejigbo Federal Constituency for the 2015 general elections. The campaign team, being chaired by Salaam, took its campaign train to Okinni, Ofatedo, Ido-Osun, Olorunsogo in Egbedore Local Government Council Area and Ede town in Ede South and Ede North Local Government Council Area. Salaam said the PDPled government has rocked the boat of the country, and there is the need to effect the desired change to save the country from its present woes. He stressed that the APC has demonstrated the leadership quality that is powerful enough to tackle the challenges of the country that the PDP government has failed •Mobile Police at Oke-Fia roundabout, Osogbo, State of Osun, during the delivery of the final judgment at Osun Election Petition Tribunal at High woefully to address. Court, Osogbo, last Friday. Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI. Salaam urged the people of the areas to cast their votes for all the APC candidates to ensure going to Miss Akinola programme unanimously lectures, which were By niyi olasinde quality representation and Opeyemi Marian, an SS issued a challenge to aimed at internalizing in quality leadership in the s part of its own quota to resuscitating the II student of Roseful Nigerian public; the youth youths, the ingredients country. hitherto dwindling reading and writing International School, in particular, not to idle of good readership H e a l s o u rg e d t h e culture, particularly among youths in Osogbo. away from active study, towards building good, people of the area not to contemporary Nigerian society, the State of as its auspicious role to The second prize of responsible leadership be deceived by any of the Osun Chapter of the Society of Young Nigerian nation building cannot be the competition went for today and the future. lies and rumours of the Writers (SYNW) has held its 2015 Annual Award over-emphasized. to Miss Amosa Mercy According to them, PDP aimed at creating Presentation ceremony, the first of its kind, last E a r l i e r i n t h e i r “good readers make good Adesewa, an SS III confusion in the state. Saturday. student of Our Lady l e c t u r e s , M r. Wa l e leaders”. According to him, In a well-packaged, informed to be able to and St. Francis Catholic Oladeji of Macmillan High points of the “their trait is to tell lies inform the society in College, Osogbo; while Publishing Company o c c a s i o n i n c l u d e d and anytime they spread event-laden programme, return. and an accomplished falsehood again, tell them the occasion presented T h e t h r e e - h o u r the first prize was won writer and Guardian presentation of prosaic they are liars and send varieties of sorts, as all readings, poetic by an SS II student of hands were put on deck to programme, held at the Roseful International newspaper columnist, recitations, playlets and them away.” He urged the APC instill the inculcation of premises of the State of School, Osogbo, Master Miss Jumoke Verrisimo, other side attractions m e m b e r s , w h o a r e reading and writing into Osun National Library Law Onilearo Joshua. brought the participants co-rendered by Miss aggrieved to bury their youths as prerequisite for of Nigeria, ended with at the event through Funmilayo Adedeji, Presenting the awards, grievances and work with them to be adequately the third runner-up prize the organizers of the sessions of seasoned Mr. Adeniran Benedict Olumide and Miss Alabi Tabitha Olamide; all students of various disciplines at the Obafemi By Francis Ezediuno Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. Also, Heaven and Earth were in presidential, national and the Drama Troupe of the or the Osun Election Tribunal quashing all “Look at the situation state parliament elections. contained in the petition filed by Senator now, the PDP in Osun agreement with it. “I see the judgment as university’s Theatre Arts She advised the Iyiola Omisore, the candidate of the Peoples i s i n d i s a r r a y ; t h e at the right time. Department was on hand Democratic Party (PDP) in the August 9, 2014 members are accusing politicians to come together coming It is what the APC needs to spice up the event with and work for the peace and gubernatorial election, is no more news. the state chairman, Alhaji progress of the State of to turn the tide of goodwill playlets. Immediately afterwas the tribunal’s verdict became public Ganiyu Olaoluwa, of knowledge, there a on Friday, The presentation of he went on his Osun and also for the All in their favour. wild jubilation in town knees and requested God fund embezzlement and Progressive Congress to “They should capitalise awards to recipients, as reflecting the mood of the not to put Ogbeni Rauf even on Friday, many work assidiously for the on this goodwill they are well as the presentation of their members were success of the party in the enjoying and send the PDP generality of the people. Aregbesola to shame. of certificates to F o r M r. G b e n g a away from Aso Rock for p a r t i c i p a n t s , w a s According to him: “I seen jubilating over the general elections Ibiyemi, the judgment sincerely do not know why judgment.” She observed that with good.” anchored by the President Mrs. S u k u r a t the tribunal delivering of the election petition Omisore ane the PDP went of the State of Osun tribunal reflected the wish to the tribunal in the first Abdulmalik stated that a favourable judgment Chapter of Association of t h e j u d g m e n t w a s a of the people. place. He knew he would for the APC, it may be Nigerian Authors (ANA), He said that when he lose the petition and I think confirmation that he was the game changer that heard that the tribunal they just did it so as to keep the divine selection and would work to favour Mr. Biodun Oloyede, was to deliver judgment their PDP house together. with the downpour, it t h e p a r t y d u r i n g t h e closely assisted by other was an indication that the
Osun Society Of Young Writers Debuts Annual Award
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Osun Welcomes Tribunal Judgment
•God Is With Aregbesola
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osun Defender Tuesday, February
Postponement Of February Polls Is In Bad Taste - Nige-
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By Francis Ezediuno
how to win the elections dubiously. “They are just using the postponement to buy time or else why should a party that was set for elections and that have even gone about campaigning now without giving a thought to the implication of a postponement now
hurriedly endorse it?” He posited that the events of the following days are very crucial on determining if the electorate would respond violently or passively. The police officer disclosed that probably, the INEC boss was slow
he postponement of the February 14th and 28th general elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been described as nothing short of a coup d’etat against the Nigerian state and its people. This was the view to achieve victory than of people, who bared to apply postponement, their minds on the INEC so as to strategise on decision, as announced by the commission Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, on By Francis Ezediuno given the peeople before Saturday. he need for Nigerians to be fully involved and asking for their votes. Mr. Augustine Izzua, The University Don play prominent roles in the electoral a n O s o g b o b a n k e r, charged the electorate to processes that will move the country forward ensure they get the change described the extension out of the current situations has been emphasized. they desired through the of the election date from This formed part of the and those that ballot box and not through February 14 and 28 to views of the speaker at a possible were there just to ensure March 28 and April 11 seminar organised by the the regulation of the rebellion. “This should be seen as mischevious, wicked Faculty of Arts students of system to continue with as an uncompromising and a plot to destabilise the Osun State University, the status quo. objective. the fragile peace in the Okuku Campus. He added that the “The desired change country. Expressing his views problem the country is In his words: “I wonder in a paper titled; “2015 c u r r e n t l y f a c i n g w a s can come through the why INEC and Jega had General Elections and Its caused by the apathetic active participation of its citizens.” to postpone an election Challenges”, the Head nature of Nigerians. Meanwhile, in a that had been in the o f P o l i t i c a l S c i e n c e He accused politicians of research paper titled: planning for a year? Department, Dr. E. B. bastardasing the state and “Anyway, I do not Agbaje, stated that it was advised that in campaigning “Public Opinion And 2015 blame him at all. I suspect the responsibility of every for the people’s votes, all Elections”, by Adeagbo political arm-twisting citizen to vote for the type politicians should provide Kola, it was determined here. How come a week of leadership they desired. evidence of what they have that 78% of university to elections, the Nigerian He noted that the armed forces suddenly problem the country has decided to embark on a faced repeatedly was as a mission to dislodge Boko result of the weakness of By kazeem mohammed the state. Haram? In his words, Dr. Agbaje “Why were they not omen have been charged to participate fully in dislodged more than a explained that it was a the democratic process to make the country more year ago? Is President systemic problem that had virile politically. Goodluck Jonathan not eaten deep intop the fabrics The representative of in the community to be more the Commander-In-Chief of the society. Friedrich Ebert Stiftung active in the game and get “The state should be Foundation, Mrs. Chizboa themselves more involved of the Nigerian Armed Forces? He should have neutral and be able to Nwuzor, made the charge in the politics of the country. Nwuzor, while speaking used his powers to call enact laws to sanction in Iwo, State of Osun at the the armed forces to delay people who want to cause weekend during a day Voters’ o n t h e t h e m e : ” Vo t e r s Sensitization Workshop E d u c a t i o n F o r R u r a l action till the election was disruption.” The political scientist for Community Women Wo m e n ” , a r g u e d t h a t over and done with.” On his own, a police outlined reasons why the ahead of the 2015 general women are essential in officer, who spoke under system remained the same elections, organised by the politics and they needed condition of anonymity, since Nigeria attained foundation in collaboration to make their impacts felt, described the action as independence status in with Muslim Sisters For charging them to wake up from their slumber to prove 1960 as: Colonial interest, Social Justice. selfish. She described women to the whole world that they the interest of the British He noted that the in politics and are not weaker vessels in the ruling party has become capitalists, interest of participation politicking in any given act of politicking. Nigerians, who make the a sinking ship and does While commending the society as indispensable to not know any other way attainment of the first two its growth, advising women organizational ability of the
in arriving at a decision which was necessitated by pressures from Aso Rock. Augustine urged all Nigerians to remain vigilant and see what next the PDP-led government has in store next . “I strongly advise that
on whatever date has been assigned for elections, Nigerians should vote massively for change, as that is the only miracle we need now. “Enough of rhetorics, we need action,” he added.
2015 Election: Varsity Don Charges Politicians, Students
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students in the state would vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate, Major General Muhammadu Buhari, as against 20% for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, D r. G o o d l u c k E b e l e Jonathan in the February 14, presidential election. The survey report also indicated that the students rated General Muhammadu Buhari high over Goodluck Jonathan because the APC candidate had promised to tackle corruption and insecurity, if elected as president. In his welcome address,
the President of the Faculty of Arts Students Association, Mobolaji Adeyefa, stated that it was the desire to get the Nigerian students involved in the electoral process that made them to embark on the project to educate themselves on the benefits and necessity of voting. He stressed that by being actively involved in the process and not engaging in violence, will broaden their horizons and make them to question the elected leaders, when they deviate from the path.
Muslim Sisters for Justice, she expressed satisfaction about the good turnout of market women, women wings of the registered political parties in Iwo Local Government Council Area and Christian and Muslim Women including the women in pudah in the council area. Also, the chairman of the occasion, who is the President, Iwo Board of Trustees, Otunba Bayo Aremu, commended t h e o rg a n i z e r s o f t h e sensitization programme, saying the gesture would motivate and equip women better to cast their votes correctly. Lady Chairman,
Evangelist Folashade Asafa, who doubles as the President, National Council for Women Societies, joined others to give kudos to the organizers and charged participants in the sensitization workshop to find time to collect their Permanent Voters’ Cards ( P V C ’s ) , s o a s n o t t o disenfranchise themselves in the forthcoming elections. Evangelist Asafa also asked those that attended the workshop to give their votes to credible candidates, so that they can enjoy best of the dividends of democracy. In their different remarks at the well-attended workshop, the Royal Father on the occasion, Ologburo of Ogburo, Oba Asimiyu Agboluaje, and the Oosa of Iwoland, Chief Yekeen Orobimpe, charged women to educate their children on the dangers that go with being used as agents and tools of destruction during the electioneering and democratic process. In his own speech, the INEC representative, Alhaji Musodiq Raji, took participants through various hand bills that discussed dates of the general elections in Nigeria this year and advised them to be leading participants. The INEC officer, who is in-charge of the Iwo Local Government Council Area Office also spoke extensively on the indispensability of the voters’ cards, getting to the voting points early enough for verification and behaviours and utterances that constitute punishable offences during election.
Women Charged To Participate Fully In
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O utrage Over Postponement Of General Elections
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By ismaeel uthman
here is public outrage on the postponement of the general elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as Nigerians described the development as a grand design plan by the President Goodluck Jonathan-led Federal Government to rig the general elections. Professor Attairu Jega, the wish of Nigerians, who the INEC chairman, had on were seriously opposed to the Saturday, announced the election postponement. Aluko also accused postponement of the election by six weeks, on the ground the security agencies of that the security agencies were insincerity in the fight against not ready to provide security Boko Haram insurgence on which they claim to launch for the elections. In a spontaneous reaction, a six-week offensive attack some opinion leaders in beginning from February Osogbo, the State of Osun, 14, the initial date of the stated that the security presidential election. According to Aluko, the agencies, the Presidency and the Peoples Democratic Party security agencies are acting the (PDP) conspired to shift the script of President Jonathan elections in a bid to frustrate and the PDP, to weaken the the growing love of General consciousness of Nigerians on Muhammodu Buhari out of the elections. He said: “The election Nigerians. A political analyst, Mr postponement was only Niyi Aluko, in an interview to postpone the imminent with OSUN DEFENDER defeat of President Jonathan. on Sunday, bemoaned the The excuse of the security security agencies for being agencies not to participate partisan and acting against in the election, as given by INEC Chairman, confirmed
the allegation of the opposition parties that the security agencies were partisan. “When Boko Haram insurgents were on the prowl, when they were killing and kidnapping at will, our security agencies did not launch offensive attack for six weeks consecutively. It is however, disheartening to hear the security agencies saying that they wanted to launch attack for six weeks beginning from the initially scheduled presidential election day. That is flimsy and illogical. “President Jonathan is the same president that had felt unconcerned with the Boko Haram insurgents for the past six years. It is very suspicious and irrational for the same president, using the security agencies, to address the Boko Haram menace for next six weeks. “They might have forced Jega to postpone the election, but the election will never be cancelled. President Jonathan is just postponing his dooms day. He cannot survive the presidential election.
Nigerians have decided to match him out of Aso Rock.” In the same vein, an opinion leader, Chief Gabriel Ajayi, in a telephone interview with OSUN DEFENDER expressed fear of an interim government and a return of military to Nigerian streets. Ajayi said: “My fear is for military not to explore this provocative election postponement to return to the streets and for the President not to handover to an interim government as being speculated. What is happening now points to those two things. “The security agencies, acting the script of their paymasters, may later say they needed another two to four weeks to complete their ‘political’ attack on Boko Haram. This may go on till Jonathan finishes his tenure; therefore, the need for an interim government. “The issue at hand goes beyond election postponement. Nigerians need to read between the lines and the handwriting is clear on the wall. If a President thinks it
is better for him to handover to an undemocratic structure instead to opposition party, that calls for serious concern. I pray Nigeria survives this unnecessary political turbulence. “Politics should be inline with the doctrine of democracy, which is the wish of the people. But it is appalling to see a person directly or indirectly trying to truncate our democracy for his self-centeredness and party’s selfishness.” Similarly, a human right activist, Comrade Adewola Adewale, described the postponement of the election as ridiculous to Nigerian d e m o c r a c y, s a y i n g t h a t President Jonathan has poked Nigerians on the face. According to Adewole, no amount of political gimmicks, frustration, intimidation and threats could deter Nigerians from performing their civic responsibility that would oust President Jonathan any day, any time the presidential election holds.
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osun Defender Tuesday, February
Debating The Non-debatable- By Duro Onabule Continued from pg1
Against that background, why the arrogance of a so-called election debate group? Who is that member or participant of the debate group without his political bias? A civil servant earning his daily bread virtually from President Jonathan? Then, view any NTA’s current affairs slot, specifically coverage of the on-going political campaigns. NTA conveniently publicizes President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and PDP presidential candidate as one and the same person. They are in fact, different persons when competing with any other person. All it requires to display the distinction are courageous and impartial professionalism. Throughout the current campaigns so far, whatever Jonathan does is deliberately and disgustingly configured to his political enhancement in the coming elections. As many as the first seven to ten items on NTA’s nightly network news are strictly and religiously on Jonathan’s public shows, each item extending to two minutes or even more. On the other hand, any item on General Buhari’s campaign comes a poor eleventh on NTA network news and even then only grudgingly for less than a minute constantly. Watch NTA Network news tonight. I queried NTA (yes, they are colleagues) and the lame answer was that General Buhari’s party, the APC, refused to honour NTA’s request for their candidate’s (Buhari’s) itinerary so that a crew could be attached to him. Did the NTA put such a request to President Jonathan’s party, PDP? If so, that would only be in addition to feeders from every NTA station in every part of Nigeria. That is mandatory, according to the instrument establishing NTA.
Does that therefore render NTA blameless? It is only in modern day journalism that professionals wait for news or to be patronized. We were taught to search for news failing which you were considered to be unproductive and accordingly sanctioned depending on the mood of the bosses. It was a daily self-effort every morning to search through rival newspapers for stories one might have missed and (to) immediately follow-up as a cover-up. And the same partial chaps at NTA hiding on the platform of a nebulous election debate group expected General Buhari to expose himself to personal scandalisation by beneficiaries of Goodluck Jonathan’s patronage – one way or the other as NTA staff, government media consultants, chairman or members of parastatals of Jonathan’s government. Initially, General Buhari’s APC appeared at fault for handicapping itself by ignoring NTA. But what a foresight! Never in Nigeria’s political history did a television station malign a rival candidate in a one-hour totally distasteful documentary as the NTA did on General Buhari. For what purpose? To handicap and indeed destroy him in favour of President Jonathan. Again, queried on such professional shortcoming, the explanation from NTA was that the one-hour malicious documentary on General Buhari was a sponsored advertisement. Another question followed if NTA would have aired, even as a sponsored (that is paid) advertisement, a similar documentary against President Jonathan? There was no answer. Yet a third question, if NTA, even as a paid advertisement, would have aired the same advertisement against General Muhammadu Buhari if he (Buhari) were the President of Federal Republic of Nigeria? No answer would be found. And the same maligned General Buhari was expected to be moderated by the same NTA chaps on a bogus platform of election debate group?
Another member (television station) of the election debate group, Africa Independent Television (AIT) also transmitted the gutter documentary on General Buhari. And General Buhari was expected to participate in an election debate to be partly moderated by AIT? Who anyway, owns AIT? Raymond Dokpesi, an acolyte of Goodluck Jonathan.
I
different from hired ki l l e rs a nd a rme d robbers. Hunting like carnivores, and scaring every of Aregbesola’s loyalists and himself not excluded, how could the ruling party in the state rigged in
the face of the evil messengers? The gamblers were the shameless groups that celebrated victory ahead of the tribunal pronouncement. With this attitude, the world can see the disgusting
hunting for power in the State of Osun. They so much manipulated the psychology of their blind followers, made them to believe that the tribunal will declare Omisore as the winner of August 2014
Osun gubernatorial election. Prior to the pronouncement of the tribunal, they celebrated and danced in towns and cows were slaughtered for consumption. It was indeed a joyous
Therefore, if for once, especially with the compelling reasons of unwarranted denigration of his person and family members in a distasteful television documentary, General Buhari refused to debate, what is the fuss about? Why were there no complaints against Obasanjo (1999 and 2003), Yar’Adua (2007), and Jonathan at the last Presidential elections? In 2011, Jonathan debated with himself in one of the debates, ignoring the other. He is also free to repeat the solo-debate.
Raymond Dokpesi has quit as owner of AIT. Fine. But could AIT have rejected the documentary on General Buhari? The only consideration for the station’s transmission of the documentary on General Buhari was Raymond Dokpesi’s closeness to President Jonathan. Better still, would AIT have aired, as a sponsored advertisement, any television documentary maligning the person of President Jonathan? All these guys are unfair to General Buhari in every aspect. Transmitting a one-hour television documentary ridiculing a man for his bereavement? A television documentary invoking sad memories of a man’s deceased family members – the late wife, and the late daughter. Yet till now, Jonathan never thought it fit to condemn that documentary. In effect, Jonathan endorsed the documentary and expected to debate with General Buhari?
Only seven days more. Don’t give up. From now till Election Day, everybody should tolerate whatever provocation and move to the polling booth on Election Day to choose their new President. These people are scheming for every excuse to postpone the election and install their interim government. We must not allow them. If anybody is slapped, turn the other cheek to deny them any opportunity of escaping their day of judgment. I collected my Permanent Voters’ Card on Wednesday. Go for yours.
Meanwhile, both Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON) and National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) have not sanctioned NTA and AIT. Would these supposedly regulating bodies have similarly acquiesced if the documentary were on Jonathan? On the contrary, NBC in particular, would have moved in to shut down NTA and AIT throughout the country while Nigeria’s secret police (disguised as State Security Services) would have arrested anybody remotely connected with the production and transmission of the television documentary.
•Next week: The Grudge Election, as never before
All these apart, since 2003, General Buhari is the only one who offered himself for television debate more than any other candidate. In 1999, former President Obasanjo refused to debate with Alliance for Democracy candidate, Olu Falae. In 2003, Obasanjo refused to debate with General Buhari. In 2007, Umar Yar’Adua refused to debate with
Celebration Of Shame In Osun By Omisore’s Supporters moment for them. messengers were not set of people, who are t is no more news t h a t t h e Governorship Election Tribunal in the State of Osun has finally affirmed the validity of October 2014 governorship election in which Governor Rauf Aregbesola came victorious. Rational thinkers will nod in affirmation in favour of such pronouncement because Aregbesola was massively voted for. Prior to this moment, if any party had rigged the election, it was that party that deployed 75,000 security agents comprising Nigerian Army, DSS, and Police and some of these evil
General Buhari.
In the evening of 6th February, 2015 after the judgment was delivered, I looked around to see them celebrating again, but it was broom that took over all the cities, towns and villages in the state. This victory is for the people of the State of Osun, who stood firmly behind Aregbesola during the last governorship election and proved some selfish and myopic civil servants and politicians wrong. Some persons also exhibited their hardheartedness, when they voted against Rauf on the basis of religion, yet, the
OSUN DEFENDER
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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
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Good Goverosun Defender Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Fresh Tenure Well Deserved:
Hopes, Expectations Rekindled!
We witnessed at the end of the just-concluded week how the mandate that was so resoundingly and overwhelmingly renewed for Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and his political front, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the last year August 9 Gubernatorial Election in the State of Osun, was upheld by the Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal sitting in Osogbo, the state capital. No time is better appropriate than now to capture the minds of residents, as regards their hopes and expectations. NIYI OLASINDE takes this edition to begin that task of dissection.
•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (atop a luxury bus with broom), acknowledging cheers from his numerous admirers after he was declared winner of the August 9, 2014 governorship election in the State of Osun by the Election Petition Tribunal sitting at High Court, Osogbo, last Friday.
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osun Defender Tuesday, February
Hopes, Expectations Rekindled!
•Ogbeni Aregbesola (3rd left); his deputy, (2nd left); Head of Service, Mr Olayinka Owoeye (left); Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola (2nd right) and other workers at the Governor’s Office, during his resumption back to office after his second term inauguration in Osogbo, State of Osun, recently.
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N the State of Osun, South-West geopolitical zone of Nigeria, Governorship Elections intended to herald in a fresh administration for the state for a period of four years spanning 2014 to 2018 have come and gone. Due to play-out of events at the Governorship Elections Petition Tribunal, which sitting commenced sometimes around September2014 has put to rest apprehensions and uncertainties nursed in various quarters; as the unanimous judgment pronounced by the tribunal lead panelist upheld the election of the incumbent governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola. The judgment, to be precise came through last Friday after a long uneasy period of wait, expectations, anticipation and uncertainty. For the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and true lovers of good governance and survival of enduring democracy, the just-ended period was that of unruffled calm, as it was as clear as crystal that the disputed election was not only free and fair; but also credible and unbiased. The processes that culminated into the election and the election proper went without hitches. The only areas noticed as trouble spots for hitches and irregularities were those held as hostage by the petitioner in the just-decided case, Senator Iyiola Omisore and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This assessment and line of reasoning was confirmed by Governor Aregbesola in his live state broadcast after the judgment. According to the helmsman, he and his party overlooked the events of disenfranchisement of perceived loyalists of their camp, gross irregularities and widespread manipulation in some areas. He concluded by pronouncing it as assault and insult of the persons of the electorate and entire people of the state that someone who unleashed such high degree of brazen dehumanization on the people he intended to govern could be the same seeking redress through the judicial processes! OSUN DEFENDER Magazine agrees no less with the position of the governor. In addition, we posit that greater measures of failure and waterloo await the petitioner and his political party as they gallivant upward the rungs of the judicial ladder to find a more favourable judgment that would remain elusive. The reason for this position is that the case they parade has been deficient in merit right from the start. Anyone who was here to witness how the elections played out would not agree less. Right from the time of beginning of accreditation on the
Election Day, calls of complaints started coming in from parts of the state, most especially, areas where Omisore and his co-adventurers considered as their own, mostly Ife and areas in Atakunmosa. Earlier than that time, the build-up of events showed in Omisore and his party a contestant that was favoured by all the instrumentalities of the Federal Might; all to the detriment and prejudice of other contenders. At this juncture, OSUN DEFENDER Magazine finds it appropriate to recast a portion of our past editions that succinctly captured the true position of events: Last year, we had for a repeated time a round of rousing jubilations which greeted the declaration of results of the August 9 Gubernatorial Elections in the state. The wild jubilations received their crowning moment on Thursday November 27 that year when history was made as Governor Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola was sworn in for the second term in office. The people trooped out in their droves as they converged on the newly upgraded and reconstructed Osogbo City Stadium, venue of the Swearing-in ceremony. The mammoth crowd of the day was quite intimidating. The Governor in his later remarks observed that the crowd, their quality and their teeming support gave credence to the election results, his declaration as winner and the entire victory as being a product of unanimous endorsement by the people. On Sunday August 10, it was jubilations galore throughout the nooks and crannies of the state as people trooped out in their tens of thousands to celebrate the victory of the Man of the People, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola at the polls as announced and declared by the Chief Election Umpire – the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). As a matter of fact, as early as the evening of the Election Day, it had become as clear as mercury where the pendulum of victory was swinging. As soon as election results per polling unit breezed in, collation was in progress as much on individual basis as it was ongoing at the central collation office stationed at the Government House. Unit by unit; local government by local government; the results were moving in, in droves. The progressive transmission on the outdoor TV screen stationed at the vantage Oke-Fia Roundabout was unbiased as it reported the results in situ. Thus, the people were not left in ignorance or doubts as to the authentic colour of events following the elections held earlier in the
day and its ensuing outcome. Already on that evening, a stroll round town in Osogbo the state capital conveyed the handwriting on the wall that victory had begun to tune the song of the progressives. From Old Garage Area, through the Olaiya Junction to Ogo Oluwa; the entire stretch played host to people who had voted and who stood by their votes and who were there at that post-election stage to exchange notes and compare what they had in record. My journey on foot from the Aregbesola end at Gbodofon, through Ogo Oluwa to Ataoja School of Science neighbourhood where the state headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is situated was quite revealing. Not even the campaign office of the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the contest, Senator Iyiola Omisore was spared. The stretch of major Osogbo / Gbongan / Ibadan Road which passes in front of that office had a mighty group of people who were chanting victory songs. Passengers of motor vehicles that had then begun to move in trickles waved in acknowledgement of the cheering crowd. By around seven o’ clock when I left the scene for the Central collation centre, the crowd had so swelled that you could not help wondering who voted for the candidate of the other side! The evening of the Election Day drifted slowly into night. An unprecedented crowd converged on the State of Osun Headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at Osogbo. Apart from the trickles of results already posted to and accessed through the internet, human physical substantiation came in handy, as people who arrived from various locations across the state narrated their experiences as well as shard news as to how the elections turned out at their respective locations. Lots of events occurred which marked out the victory celebrated in 2014 as surpassing in quality and uproar than that of 2010. The 2014 victory, like that of 2010 before it; was victory of the people against imposition and foisted leadership. While the 2010 victory was one won over a cabal of captors who held them hostage from within; that of 2014 was won in advance against grand designers of captivity who intended to employ all inordinate means within their reach to entangle the state and its people under the awe of an unwanted leadership. It was an attempt that gave a warning sign. The people responded aptly Continued on page 9
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osun Defender Tuesday, February
Hopes, Expectations Rekindled!
•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (3rd left); some executive members and other civil servants of different grades at the Governor’s Office, during Governor Aregbesola’s resumption back to office after his second term inauguration in Osogbo, State of Osun, recently. Continued from page 8
by employing utmost care and vigilance. An event occurred which nearly set the stage for a Matinmas summer for the State of Osun and its people. That event began to unfold in early August, 2014 as preparations reached the climax for the grand-finale of the political rallies of the leading opposition party in the state – the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The party holds sway at the federal level; and as such, the National Leader of that party, who doubles as the incumbent President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan was being expected in the state for the afore-mentioned occasion. Naturally, it was expected that if such a dignitary is being expected in any part of the country, advance team of sorts, comprising security details, protocol and other retinues. In view of this fact, the development under reference should not have, ordinarily been a serious cause for worry. More so, the 2014 Gubernatorial Election was barely a week away! But there was more to the event than was pleasant to the eye. Following the Gubernatorial Election which held in Ekiti State on June 21, the leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), apparently spurred by euphoria of victory at that election made a declaration that it was about to mount a lock-down on Osun, whose turn it was to elect a governor. There was much wonder as responses trailed that declaration from various quarters. But just as we were all taking it for granted that the declaration was made in the heat of passion, indications began to appear that the party, through the instrumentality of the Federal Government it heads was actually set for a lock-down or something close to it in the State of Osun. On the evening of Thursday, July 31, I was appointed to meet a junior professional colleague at the popular Oke-Fia Roundabout. I arrived at the scene promptly as appointed and waited by. While still laying in wait, an activity caught my attention. A peaceful political rally was going on just by the roadside at the shoulder of the roundabout. I guessed from the contents of the political talk I overheard that it was a political rally put together by Ward 4 of Osogbo Local Government, in solidarity for the governorship aspiration of the incumbent governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola. Participants at the rally sang, danced, made speeches and brandished their brooms with ecstasy and dexterity. It became a centre of focus for all passers-by. It was a pleasant sight to behold. The venue of the occasion is the moderately
spacious arc adjoining the State of Osun Government House Annexe. That arc is set on a triangular space stuck in the clef of Ilobu / Government House Road and the Iwo Road end of the roundabout. It is directly overlooked by the projector placed conspicuously at the centre of the turning point. The rally went on peacefully. It thus became spectacular for anyone who cared to stay by and participate or listen to the contents of the proceedings. The first inkling I got about what would happen next was prompted by a phone call from the colleague I was waiting for. He called to tender an apology for the delay in his arrival. He hinged the delay on a traffic gridlock which caught him all the way from Ogo-Oluwa axis through Olaiya Junction down to Alekuwodo. Eager and perplexed to the marrow, I asked him if that excuse was tenable in a place like Osogbo where we both resided. Then he opened up that a huge number of masked security operatives, all dressed in black and armed to the tooth had besieged the streets in a long convoy; shooting sporadically into the air. Then I began to wonder why that could be happening as I waited to witness the show of power if it should come to Oke-Fia. In the fullness of time, it did! On arrival at the junction, several gunshots were released to the air. I was expecting them not to have done that, most especially as they had sighted the political rally being held few metres away. As trained security operatives deployed on assignment to secure lives and property, duty demands that they should not demonstrate any act that could provoke violence and public unrest. But they shot the bullets on and on. The response to that event took various forms. For the participants at the rally, they intensified their singing and dancing; frantically waving their brooms. They did all these fearlessly. Some hordes of passers-by and street hawkers who are less courageous withdrew from the scene as early as they could. I was amazed at the degree of courage demonstrated by motorists, cyclists and motor park conductors who defied intimidation and just watched and marveled at the reason for the unfolding scene. Some of the motor park men accosted some elitist people around, my humble self inclusive, and asked what the fuss was intended to create. The elderly among them expressed shock and disappointment that this kind of event was unfolding under a democratic dispensation. They went as far as citing the various rounds of elections they had witnessed in the country, all of which were bereft of such brazen shameless
show of might. On top of it, they chipped in the suggestion that the powers at the top and their might should direct their show of power to Boko Haramravaged states instead of dissipating needless time and energy in Osun where peace, tranquility and harmony are a creed. They never knew that they were giving a reportorial assignment to a willing pressman who would report their outcry purely as it is. But it gladdened me that people are becoming more vibrantly aware of the numerous acts that are out of place in our polity. Earlier than the arrival of these security operatives, the same masterminds of intended hostage had constituted nuisance to public peace by mounting illegal road closures, indiscriminate blow of sirens, violation of traffic regulations and attack on members and supporters of other political parties in the state. They had as well been loud and noisy in their gaffe that they were going to win the upcoming elections by all means and at all costs. They went further that an election result would be declared in Abuja; if the State Headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should fail to declare them winner against majority demand indicated by actual results of the election. OSUN DEFENDER Magazine had bared several facts on the atrocities perpetrated by the leading opposition party to secure fraudulent victory at the polls. These include sharing of Greek gifts like cash, rice and kerosene, massive purchase of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) from unsuspecting electorate and reports on how the party had been conducting clandestine voting ahead of the actual voting. Above all these, it was as clear as daytime that the Federal Government favoured the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in all things at the prejudice of other parties. For instance, when that party’s governorship candidate, Iyiola Omisore discovered that the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for the State of Osun, Ambassador Rufus Akeju did not succumb to his dirty deal, he hammered for his deployment, which was granted. That caused the temporary redeployment that brought the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Kogi State, Mr. Olusegun Agbaje to the scene. Another instance in hand unfolded on the eve of the election. Vigilant and eagle-eyed youth of a community in Obokun Local Government Council Area of the state caught a van loaded with already Continued on page 10
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osun Defender Tuesday, February
Hopes, Expectations Rekindled!
•An open space of the Nelson Mandela Freedom Park, Osogbo. Continued from page 10
thumb-printed ballot papers. They acted lawfully well by handing the van and its ferry-men over to the police authorities at the State Police Headquarters at Osogbo. It was reported that the leadership of the state headquarters of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had owned up that one of its staff, an electoral officer of a local government was among the arrested ferry-men of the impounded van. The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Police authorities hurriedly effected a change in the police hierarchy in the state; obviously to cover their tracks in the electoral crime. Mr. Maishanu who had been the State Commissioner of Police was transferred to give way for Mr. Mbakaboko, who obviously was an odd-jobber on assignment to act a script. Mr. Mbakaboko’s first (and probably the only) assignment was to address a press conference where he told the whole world that no vehicle was ever arrested by his command. So, the culprits were let off the hook! There was also this reported case of illegal purchasers of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) apprehended by eagle-eyed patriots at Ajegunle Area of Osogbo, the state capital. The apprehenders acted on tip-off by vigilant members of the public; and they acted promptly. The culprits were reported to be card acquirers of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP); and as such; they were having a free day with an air of impunity! As a matter of fact, aside the fact that no members or supporters of any other political party could demonstrate such lawlessness; they dared not, as there were no immunity to give them defenses against the long arms of the law. So the story went: the culprits were handed over to the police authorities upon apprehension. Before long, their sponsors at the “almighty” federal seat got the news. The next line of action on their part was to get the State Commissioner of Police on phone and having confirmed the account, ordered him to effect their immediate release and get the case closed for good and all! Not only that, as the time of day was evening, they ordered the police boss to feed their sacred cows to aid their recuperation upon release as they must have been famished. The officer of the law found himself helpless; his arms being tied. So, he was left with no better option than to sacrifice his meal for that day’s break of fast as the time of occurrence coincided with the holy Moslems’ month of Ramadan. It was this police boss who did the biddings of his masters above who was summarily redeployed
on the eve of the governorship election. He then got replaced with another one who was given a hurriedlyprepared script to act. I never considered that the job of policing could be so rubbished! I guess that it was shame that prevented the new police boss from gracing the events at the election collation centre with his presence. His seat was vacant on that night and so it remained all through the night. Men and officers of our forces need greater touch of professionalism. The President should also ensure that those appointed to man political leadership of ministries are experts and professionals of relevance to respective ministries. Much of our problems stems from putting square pegs into round holes. Another account which the afore-cited van arrest at Obokun Local Government substantiated is the widespread rumour making the rounds prior to the elections that the votes for so and so local government council areas had been cast. The first inkling of that that I got derived from the newspaper account I read of a man in Ekiti State; a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who gaffed about that his party’s victory in the yet-to-be-conducted election, was a long-settled case! There was much to that account than could be entertained in this edition. But the confirmation came when on the eve of the Osun Gubernatorial Polls a van filled with thumb-printed ballot papers was impounded within the precincts of Obokun Local Government. If we did not confirm the earlier reports and rumours, that incident alone confirmed that those atrocities were truly committed and with the covering of the powers-that-be at the federal level. THE Gubernatorial Elections which held penultimate Saturday all over the State of Osun has ended with a note of victory on the part of the incumbent governor, Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola and his political party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). The victory has put final rest to fears and apprehension nursed in some quarters that the election and its aftermath could spell disasters of grave proportions for the state and its people. Declaring the results of the elections in the wee hours of Sunday, the state returning officer, who doubles as the Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Professor Bamitale Omole premised the delay in the release of the results which dragged all through the night on the long distance which some collation officers and other election personnel had to travel to Osogbo, the state capital
to turn in the results they had. In his declaration, the governorship candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola polled a massive figure of three-hundred and ninety-four thousand, six-hundred and eightyfour (394,684) votes to defeat the leading opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Senator Iyiola Omisore, whose total number of votes was twohundred and ninety-two thousand, seven-hundred and forty-seven (292,747). The winning margin in the polls presented a clear difference of one-hundred and one thousand, nine-hundred and thirty-seven (101,937). In the breakdown of election results, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola of the All Progressives Congress (APC) polled a rousing majority; making him the winner in twenty-two local governments. These local governments include Osogbo (39,983 votes); Olorunda (26,551); Iwo (20,827); Ilesa East Local Government Council, the home of the governor (16,106); and Ilesa West (15,427). Others include Irewole (18,328); Ifelodun (17,447); Boripe (12,723) and others like, Oriade, Ifedayo, Ede North and South, Atakunmosa East, Atakunmosa West and a host of others. The winning areas of Senator Omisore of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) include his home local governments, Ife Central, Ife East and Ife South; Isokan, Ife North, Boluwaduro, Odo-Otin, and Ayedire. The Chief Returning Officer appreciated God and the people of the state for a hitch-free election; though some pockets of hitches were reported in Ward 11 of Boripe Local Government Council Area, Ward 5 of Ila local Government Council Area and one other unit each in Atakunmosa East and Ejigbo local governments, where petitions trailing the polls reported elections irregularities like over-voting which necessitated the results to be cancelled. On the whole, the Governorship election was adjudged to be overwhelmingly successful. Displaying the score sheets for the results, the Chief Returning Officer, Professor Bamitale Omole showed the securely sealed forms EC 8D and EC8 E, which added credence to the credibility of the exercise. In attendance at the results collation and declaration ceremony which held at the open arena of the State of Osun Headquarters of the Independent National Contiuned on page 12
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All Progressives Congress (APC) Senatorial, House Of Representatives And State House Of Assembly Rallies In Ile-Ife, Boluwaduro-Ila-Ifedayo Federal Constituencies Last Tuesday And Wednesday.
•Teenagers hailing Governor Rauf Aregbesola.
• •(L-R) Aregbesola; the Eleripa of Eripa, Oba Samuel Akinsowon and State Chairman of APC, Prince Gboyega Famodun.
•A cross section of APC supporters at the rally at Eripa.
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All Progressives Congress (APC) Senatorial, House Of Representatives And State House Of Assembly Rallies In Ile-Ife, Boluwaduro-Ila-Ifedayo Federal Constituencies Last Tuesday And Wednesday.
•(L-R) Prince Famodun; Honourable Foluke Etteh; Governor Rauf Aregbesola; Professor Sola Adeyeye; Mr Sunday Akere and others at Eripa APC rally.
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•Enthusiastic APC supporters during the rally at Eripa.
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All Progressives Congress (APC) Senatorial Campaign Rally In Osun East Senatorial District, Recently.
•Senator Babajide Omoworare, incumbent Senator and APC candidate for Osun East Senatorial District, a traditional ruler, Hon. Folorunsho Bamisayemi, APC Assembly candidate in Ife-South LGA and Mr Sikiru Ayedun, the Chairman of Ife Federal Constituency Campaign Committee of APC during a campaign tour of Ife South LGA.
•Hon Kunle Adeniji (Kongo), former Chairman, Ife Central LGA; Hon. Rotimi Makinde, current House of Representatives member and APC candidate for Ife Federal Constituency; Senator Babajide Omoworare, Osun East serving Senator and candidate of the APC for Osun East Senatorial Seat; Chief Felix Awofisayo, a party leader in Ife; Hon. Tilewa Sijuwade, APC candidate also representing Ife Central LGA in State House of Assembly and Alh Bisi Omisakin during Ife Walk-for-Change campaign exercise.
•Participants at Ile-Ife Walk for Change. with Senator Babajide Omoworare, leaders and other contestants.
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Final Judgment And Declaration Of Governor Rauf Aregbesola As Winner Of The August 9 Governorship Election By The Osun Election Petition Tribunal In The Election Petition Between Aregbesola And PDP Governorship Candidate In The State, Senator Iyiola Omisore, At High Court, Osogbo, Last Friday. Photo: GBENGA ADENIYI.
•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (2nd right); APC chairman, Prince Gboyega Famodun (2nd left); former Lagos State Commissioner, Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi and others, jubilating after Justice Elizabeth Ikpejime-led Tribunal panel dismissed Omisore’s petition in Osogbo, State of Osun, on Friday
• •
•
•Governor Aregbesola (atop a bus), acknowledging cheers from the jubilant crowd after been declared winner of the August 9, 2014 governorship election by Justice Elizabeth Ikpejime-led Petition Tribunal panel in Osogbo on Friday
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Hopes, Expectations Rekindled! Continued from page 11
Electoral Commission (INEC), Gbongan / Ibadan Road, Osogbo were National Supervisor INEC, Ambassador M.A. Wali, National Commissioner INEC, Engineer Nuru Yakubu and the Resident Electoral Commissioner of Kogi State, who doubles as the Acting Resident Electoral Commissioner of State of Osun, Mr. Olusegun Agbaje. Others present at the event are directors from INEC headquarters, Messers Oladimeji and Telma, H.O.D. Operations for the State of Osun INEC, Alhaji A.W.O. Azeez, resident electoral commissioners for Ondo and Ekiti states, academic icons who doubled a collating officers party agents, security operatives and members of the press. On hand to comment on the exercise were the State of Osun Commissioner for Information and Strategy at the time, Mr. Sunday Akere, the Director of Information and Strategy for the State of Osun Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Barrister Kunle Oyatomi and the State Chairman for the National Conscience Party (NCP), Honourable Waheed Lawal. In their separate comments, the trio lauded the credibility of the entire exercise, though they noted that lots need be improved in the conduct of elections in the nation. It was however noticed that the agent for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) absconded from signing the necessary results sheets, a development which was considered in many quarters to be a sign of discontent of the party against the results, even in spite of the prejudices it received from the Federal Government during the contest that brought about the results. THOUGH come and gone, the results and aftermath of the Osun 2014 Gubernatorial Elections are filled with startling revelations, pieces of bitter truth, lessons and assessment of progress made so far in our democratic adventure. The antecedents to and play-out of events during the polls also have much to lend to our future and the sustenance of our democratic culture. Lots have been said and discussed during the election campaign period. The discussions, conclusions and forecast made are not a closed case. Day-in, day-out, lessons are bound to be learnt. Whether one likes it or not, realities of lessons we fail to learn are bound to unfold in their due seasons. To shy away from drawing analysis and inferences and from taking proper cues from lessons from an event or from a process is to be guilty of bad fate.
•Mandela Freedom Park, Osogbo at night.
For good and all, the period of attempting to entice voters with Greek gifts has gone. The pilferers of our collective fortunes have stolen so much that the owners have discovered. Having discovered, the owners have begun to consider any Greek gifts offered to them as a stylish way of returning to them those precious wealth earlier stolen from them. So, any politician who comes out at the approach of elections, doling out Greek gifts does so as effort made in the line of redistribution of income. It is better to use every opportunity that avails itself to provide amenities that add value to the lives of the citizenry than taking the people for granted that they could be bought over with one-shot inducements – financial, material or any other form. The administration of the winner of the election, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has taught us that the most potent and vibrant tool for winning and sustaining the trust and confidence of the people is to provide amenities, infrastructure and facilities that touch lives and turn them around positively now; and that would remain as lasting legacies for generations unborn. Also through the Aregbesola school of thought, we have come to the realization that the greatest asset to politicians and statesmen alike is the people. Human resource is the greatest wealth of any society. It is therefore demeaning and dehumanizing to take for granted the intellectual faculty, mental reasoning, conscience, pride and dignity of a people. As a matter of fact, it is a crime against humanity. This is a lesson for all those who shall henceforth be aspiring to lead us as a people in these parts. We are not a people to be bamboozled with fake, unrealistic promises or dumb-driven or tempest-tossed as if we have no conscience. People have often blamed much of our predicaments in the line of successfully nurturing our democratic culture on lengthy years of military rule. But our democracy is now almost sixteen years old, yet there has been no remarkable improvement. We need to examine what is being done wrong and make proper amends. Our political leadership at the centre us currently handled by a civilian. By this, I mean that President Goodluck Jonathan was never a military man. In spite of this, it appeared as if the disposition of his administration on election matters has a bent towards winning empires by all means! As surprising as this is, it does cannot help our democratic culture. People should be allowed to have the final say on the choice of who leads them and manage their resources
for them. President Jonathan appears to be too desperate in the realization of his ambition – that of succeeding himself next year. He tends to be doing that without measuring up to being competent and able to provide solutions to our numerous problems. The enormous financial resources wasted on the fortunes of his party’s candidate in the just-concluded State of Osun Gubernatorial Election alone could have gone far in fixing all federal roads that criss-cross our territory. If he had done that, people would have become ingrafted to him without force or intimidation. OSUN DEFENDER Magazine also reasons that the huge security apparatus deployed to the state during the last polls has better task to carry out in the core North area where the dreaded Boko Haram is dealing fatal blow on citizens of this country. Security matters during an election are what the police can handle without reinforcement. More so, the State of Osun has fared well in security matters under Governor Aregbesola. Since 2010 when the incumbent administration came on board, crime wave has so reduced that the state has been ranked as one of the most peaceful in the country. This feat was achieved internally without reinforcement from anywhere. How then has reinforcement become necessary during an election; save for the reason that someone somewhere is desperately bent toward favouring a particular candidate above others. Before the elections and now that the elections are concluded, the governor remains the chief security officer of the state. How then is it that during election, someone somewhere wanted to usurp that responsibility from him? Before it is too late, President Goodluck Jonathan should get rid of bad eggs in his cabinet. The likes of Musiliu Obanikoro and Jelili Adesiyan are misfits who have no value to add to any administration. Their ignoble role in Ekiti and Osun is a clear attestation to this. If nothing about their antecedents is sufficient to convince anyone, their roles in these recent outings should do the convincing. Here we are! The collective will of the majority of our people has prevailed. In spite of harassment, intimidation, provocation and threats, we have all won at last! It remains indelibly true that the people’s will is mightier than the force of arms. The resolve of the people is irrepressible. In vain was the guard and spies. We have fought and won in spite of all Continued on page 13
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Hopes, Expectations Rekindled! Continued from page 11
antics and machinations of our collective foes. Congratulations, Osun. On top of the foregoing, we consider it appropriate at this juncture to recapture the events of the Election Day; especially as they played out in Osogbo, the state capital. We wish to remind our readers that Osogbo and Olorunda Local Government Council Areas were part of the about eleven council areas petitioned by the petitioner in the just botched legal suit. The reminiscences brought about by this recapitulation here presented will serve the purpose of reminder to readers that elections in those two local government areas which form the nucleus of Osogbo, the state capital were free, fair, flawless and hitch-free: THE Gubernatorial Elections which held last Saturday all over the State of Osun has ended with a note of victory on the part of the incumbent governor, Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola and his political party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). The victory has put final rest to fears and apprehension nursed in some quarters that the election and its aftermath could spell disasters of grave proportions for the state and its people. Declaring the results of the elections in the wee hours of Sunday, the state returning officer, who doubles as the Vice Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Professor Bamitale Omole premised the delay in the release of the results which dragged all through the night on the long distance which some collation officers and other election personnel had to travel to Osogbo, the state capital to turn in the results they had. In his declaration, the governorship candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola polled a massive figure of three-hundred and ninety-four thousand, six-hundred and eightyfour (394,684) votes to defeat the leading opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Senator Iyiola Omisore, whose total number of votes was twohundred and ninety-two thousand, seven-hundred and forty-seven (292,747). The winning margin in the polls presented a clear difference of one-hundred and one thousand, nine-hundred and thirty-seven (101,937). In the breakdown of election results, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola of the All Progressives Congress (APC) polled a rousing majority; making him the winner in twenty-two local governments. These local governments include Osogbo (39,983 votes); Olorunda (26,551); Iwo (20,827); Ilesa East Local Government Council, the home of the governor
(16,106); and Ilesa West (15,427). Others include Irewole (18,328); Ifelodun (17,447); Boripe (12,723) and others like, Oriade, Ifedayo, Ede North and South, Atakunmosa East, Atakunmosa West and a host of others. The winning areas of Senator Omisore of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) include his home local governments, Ife Central, Ife East and Ife South; Isokan, Ife North, Boluwaduro, Odo-Otin, and Ayedire. The Chief Returning Officer appreciated God and the people of the state for a hitch-free election; though some pockets of hitches were reported in Ward 11 of Boripe Local Government Council Area, Ward 5 of Ila local Government Council Area and one other unit each in Atakunmosa East and Ejigbo local governments, where petitions trailing the polls reported elections irregularities like over-voting which necessitated the results to be cancelled. On the whole, the Governorship election was adjudged to be overwhelmingly successful. Displaying the score sheets for the results, the Chief Returning Officer, Professor Bamitale Omole showed the securely sealed forms EC 8D and EC8 E, which added credence to the credibility of the exercise. In attendance at the results collation and declaration ceremony which held at the open arena of the State of Osun Headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Gbongan / Ibadan Road, Osogbo were National Supervisor INEC, Ambassador M.A. Wali, National Commissioner INEC, Engineer Nuru Yakubu and the Resident Electoral Commissioner of Kogi State, who doubles as the Acting Resident Electoral Commissioner of State of Osun, Mr. Olusegun Agbaje. Others present at the event are directors from INEC headquarters, Messers Oladimeji and Telma, H.O.D. Operations for the State of Osun INEC, Alhaji A.W.O. Azeez, resident electoral commissioners for Ondo and Ekiti states, academic icons who doubled a collating officers party agents, security operatives and members of the press. On hand to comment on the exercise were the State of Osun Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Sunday Akere, the Director of Information and Strategy for the State of Osun Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Barrister Kunle Oyatomi and the State Chairman for the National Conscience Party (NCP), Honourable Waheed Lawal. In their separate comments, the trio lauded the credibility of the entire exercise, though they noted that lots need be improved in the conduct of
elections in the nation. It was however noticed that the agent for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) absconded from signing the necessary results sheets, a development which was considered in many quarters to be a sign of discontent of the party against the results, even in spite of the prejudices it received from the Federal Government during the contest that brought about the results. THE entire communities in Osogbo, the State of Osun capital city stood still last Saturday as the Gubernatorial Elections were held all over the state. Earlier on Friday, the State Government had culled out a holiday to get voters adequately prepared for the exercise, especially in getting to their various towns of registration before the outset of the restriction of movement ultimatum, which lasted between 6:00 p.m. on Friday and 6:00 p.m. on Saturday. At various polling units visited by our reporters, voters and election personnel had been spotted on site as early as 7:00 a.m. The turn-out of voters in particular was remarkably impressive as they were found on queues, their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in hand, ready for accreditation. At the polling units lying between Oke Onitea and Old Garage axis of the city, the turnout was quite indicative that the outing of the day would bring great success for Nigeria’s electoral process. At St. Michaels Primary School, Ago Wande / Oke Onitea, through BCGA area, people were found in their large numbers, comporting themselves in peaceful manner ahead of actual voting exercise. From Old Garage through Olaiya Junction to OgoOluwa area, the streets were bereft of the usual hustle and bustle as traders, motorists and residents in their entirety took their time out that day to stay at home to perform their statutory civic duty of voting. At various strategic locations in the town, armed military officers and officers of other security apparatus could be sighted mounting road blocks in order to provide added security for the .election exercise. Roads and streets were deserted, save for few motor vehicles moving on election duty. However, people were seen moving in occasional droves, in attempt to locate their voting units. As at 8:00 a.m. it had become crystal clear that the security scam and apparent pressure intended to intimidate voters and create apathy would not deter people from trooping out to vote their leaders in the capacity of governor and deputy governor. Continued on page 13
•The governor, State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (centre); his wife, Sherifat (3rd right); the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi (3rd left); the Akirun of Ikirun, Oba AbdulRauf Olayiwola Adedeji (2nd right); the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Rasheed Olabomi (left); the Oru of Imoru-Ijebu, Oba Munirudeen Bashorun (right) and the Asiwaju Adeen of Yorubaland, Chief Tunde Badmus, during the Alaafin’s courtesy visit to the governor at the Government House, Osogbo, State of Osun, recently.
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Hopes, Expectations Rekin dled!
•A cross section of All Progressives Congress (APC) lawyers jubilating at the court room after the declaration of Governor Rauf Aregbesola as the winner of August 9, 2014 governorship election in the State of Osun at the Election Petition Tribunal sitting at High Court, Osogbo, last Friday. Continued from page 12
At the Station road / Oja Oba / Ilesa Road axis of the state capital, the same trend of encouraging turnout was recorded. At the Ataoja Palace / Central Mosque area, the people of that core area trooped out massively. The trend was replicated along Oke Baale and Isale Osun where people were sighted in large numbers at their polling units, ready for their work of franchise. The mood was quite encouraging at Omo West; Ikirun / Offa Road up to Ota Efun and Kobo N Gbodbo E area where people moved out massively to perform their civic obligations within the statutorily stipulated time frame. At Testing Ground / Kola Balogun area, the stage was obviously set for a good day of prospective move toward the consolidation of sound democratic culture. In all the areas mentioned, politicians across various divides were seen moving from house to house to mobilize voters to go out for the all-important assignment. The early morning drizzle was not a deterring factor. In spite of absence of means of mobility, voters who had long distances to transverse from their places of abode to their voting units set out early enough. They were encouraged by the fact that they found out that they were not alone in the trek. At the various polling units, orderly conduct prevailed all through the exercise. At United African Primary School, adjunct to former Fakunle Comprehensive College, Gbongan / Ibadan Road, two polling units were located; peace an orderly conduct prevailed throughout the exercise. Even though there were earlier speculations of plans by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to use armed thugs dressed in military uniform to snatch ballot boxes and replace them with already stuffed ones, the way things played out was entirely different as voting went on smoothly throughout the exercise. At the end of the exercise, the results were flawless at the two units, as voters were all engaged in the process of loud counting. Recording was done in the full glare of all, and this added to the credibility of the entire exercise. Voters eventually dispersed fully satisfied as the results and their manner of counting were fair to all. As fall-out from the election, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) filed a petition, which necessitated the setting up of an Election Petitions Tribunal. The way it ended is now part of history. For all we know, the administration of Ogbeni Aregbesola in the State of Osun is one that has come to stay. The victory just won by the people has brought about one development – people have built fresh
confidence in the administration by virtue of the fact that eventually, truth has triumphed over falsehood. On top of this, people have come up with greater expectations concerning the performances of the administration in virtually all the se4ctors of life. This is more so if we analyze, in terms of its quality and quantity, the rousing crowd that graced the recently-held campaign rallies of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The trend across the country is amazing! WITH the background information set above in mind, it becomes quite explainable and understandable why the State of Osun today has transformed into a massive site for infrastructure, particularly, road infrastructure. More than four years into the journey, there is no part of the state where the hand of the administration has not been prominently felt. Within the metropolis of Osogbo, the state capital and outside of it, work has come alive and government is seen at work, fixing already existing roads and constructing new ones. It is important to note that the administration in its avowed commitment to make the state a model of sorts does not spare federal roads. The State of Osun is reputed to have one of the lengthiest coverage of federal highways criss-crossing its territories. Unfortunately, due to long years of abandonment and neglect, these roads had been in derelict state of disrepair prior to the emergence of the incumbent administration. Today, the people are heaving a sigh of relief as these roads are witnessing massive transformation in rehabilitation and reconstruction; yet there are expectations. Within and outside Osogbo metropolis, the state is replete with massive presence of road infrastructure projects all of which are at various stages of completion. While some have been completed and already commissioned for use, some are at stages nearing completion and are billed for commissioning and outright use before the end of the current year. Aside expectations, Governor Aregbesola bared the promise during the election campaigns which preceded the 2014 Governorship Elections that his second term in office would bring about more road infrastructure for the state. Let it also be stressed in passing that apart from federal roads, the administration has not neglected state and local roads in its transformation drives. Also, rural access roads, which are intended to open up rural areas to urban centres are not left out of the re-engineering process. The intra-city roads in the state have witnessed massive rejuvenation. Work is on in the direction of the State of Osun Urban Renewal Project which aims at giving face-lift and new lease of life to named ancient towns and cities, especially zonal
headquarters like Osogbo, Ilesa, Ile-Ife, Ila-Orangun, Ejigbo, Ede, Iwo, Ikirun and Ikire. Osogbo, as the state capital shall have two city centres: Oja Oba/ Palace area and Old Garage. The city centres shall be provided with good modern amenities like post offices, police stations, recreational centres, parks and gardens, eateries and the likes to give the places the desired face-lift that shall make them conform to modern-day standard of cities. Today, work is earnestly in upper swing in getting reconstructed the Osogbo/Ila-Odo/Erin-Ile, Kwara State Boundary road. It is expected that the completed road shall be delivered before end of the current year, 2014. This assurance was further affirmed recently by the governor of the state, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola during the election campaigns preceding the last election in the state. As part of expectations of residents from government, the contract for the reconstruction of Osogbo/Iwo/Ibadan Road; also a dualization project, which has since been awarded is also expected to bring about a fully constructed road in due course of time. Not only these, work on the Gbongan/Orile-Owu/Odeyinka/Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State Boundary road which has reached an advanced stage is expected to be delivered soon. Also a contract awarded by the incumbent administration, the Gbongan Trumpet Interchange along the Ibadan / Ile-Ife Expressway is expected to be handed over to motorists for use any moment from now. Gbongan/ Akoda end of the Gbongan/Osogbo Expressway is also not left out of the massive reconstruction in roads, currently ongoing in the State of Osun. Work is also going on, on the construction of Igbajo/Imesi/ Ekiti State Boundary road. The Gbongan/Orile-Owu/ Odeyinka/Ijebu-Igbo, Ogun State Boundary road is important as it provides a shortcut to cosmopolitan Lagos State without having to go through the unnecessary headache of traffic congestion which is the normal feature of Ibadan/Lagos axis. Already, the Ikirun/Iree/Ila-Orangun road project has been upgraded. However, residents trust Aregbesola as a man of his word that he shall carry out the upgrade of the stretch of that road, up till the Ekan-Meje / Kwara State Boundary before the first quarter of his second term in office. People of the Land of Virtue, especially residents of Osogbo, Okinni, Ilobu, Erin-Osun and Ifon-Orolu are full of expectations that the Osogbo – Ogbomoso Road would be reconstructed and dualized in earnest; while in Ede / Ejigbo axis of the state, the administration of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola is expected not to renege on its promise and resolve to fix right the expanse of road linking these two major cities of the Osun West Senatorial District. We conclude this edition by saying that events
for the records
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Why I Leaked Ekiti Election Rigging Tape – Nigerian Army Captian
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aptain Sagir Koli who leaked the #EkitiGate, audio and documentary which had Governor Ayo Fayose, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, Iyiola Omisore, Brigadier General Momoh and others planning how they will stifle and trample the opposition using the military and other security agencies said he did it for the unity of Nigeria and the military. “In order to strengthen the unity and continue existence of Nigeria, I call on the federal Government to desist from using the military for partisan politics. This is to avoid the military from being divided along ethnic and regional lines which is dangerous to the defence of the nation,” Koli said. In an affidavit titled: How the Nigerian Army personnel were used to rig Ekiti and Osun States Gubernatorial Elections 2014., Captain Sagir Koli gave details of all that transpired between himself, his Commanding officer, two Ministers and some politicians prior to the elections in the state. See the full text of his submission below: Staff In Confidence
•Captain Sagir Koli
•Fayose
•omisore
•obanikoro
How the Nigerian Army personnel were used to Rig Ekiti and Osun States Gubernatorial Elections 2014. 1. I was officially deployed as the 32, Artillery Brigade Intelligence Officer to provide credible Intelligence to the success of Ekiti State governorship election. At about 2030 hours on June 2014, a day to the election proper, the commander, Brigadier General AA Momoh told me to escort him to a place where the State Minister of Defence wanted to see him. Reaching the place (Spotless Hotel in Ado- Ekiti), which serves as coordinating campaign office for the PDP candidate, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, we met the minister himself, Minister of Police Affairs, Mr Fayose, My Iyiola Omisore, one Honoruable Abdulkareem and a host of other top PDP chieftains. The outcome of what was discussed that gave the party victory during the election are as follows: A. They told the brigade commander that they are on presidential assignment and they cannot afford to fail. Also, they told him that they were there to remove any obstacles that would block their victory and the commander is the key; therefore, he has no option but to collaborate with them. They said, if the commander play(ed) with them, his promotion is in their hands and the president and the Chief of Army Staff would be very angry with him and he knows what that means. B.They directed that soldiers on election duty must work hand in hand with the PDP agents and give them all the necessary support they needed without limitation. C. They ordered the arrest of selected APC stalwarts that could greatly assist the party during the election including the DG campaign organisation for Dr Fayemi, Mr Bimbo Daramola. APC members in Ekiti State should be interviewed of what they went through. We were forced to do a dirty job for them with a threat of court martial. D.They directed that soldiers must block APC members’ access to the electorate but all PDP supporters’ movement anywhere using a designated sticker with inscription, “National Security Task”, it should be noted that some of these PDP agents were given NYSC uniforms because we were well briefed by the commander. E. Chief Chris Uba who also said he was from the presidency entered Ado- Ekiti a day to the election accompanied by 16 commissioned Army officers (Major and below) led by Major Ujung of 82 Base Ammunitions Depot from Nigerian Army 82 Division Enugu. Their major task was to effect arrest and move secret materials and money. This money was brought from CBN Umuahia. F. Chief Chris Uba was physically present with the soldiers and the commander at Forward Operational Base (FOB) close to government House in Ado-Ekiti. He personally supervised the movement of the strike force. This act of a civilian directing military operation is highly unprofessional and tarnishing of the military discipline and
regimentation. G. Chief Chris Uba entered Ado-Ekiti a day to the election accompanied by military/ police escort with two black tinted Hilux Vans with “secret” materials according to him. Items inside the vans were 1000/500 Naria notes closed and cloned marked ballot papers. H. Chris Uba, Minister of Police Affairs, Obanikoro and Co said this is just a test-run that should not fail and its to be done in the SS and SW states, moreover, Rivers State to make sure Rotimi Amaechi bows to the federal government. 2. Based on the aforementioned, they succeeded in rigging the Ekiti State election with victory in all the 16 LGAs. These really inspired them and they were with the euphoria that same would happen in Osun State. In preparation of the plans, they confirmed the posting of the commander and tasked him to prepare for Osun State election (remember that Osun State is not part of 32 Artillery Brigade Area of operations) but they ordered the Nigerian Army Construction Engineers Commander, Brigadier General Adeyemi, to proceed for three weeks’ compulsory leave until after the election just to pave way for General Momah to repeat the same dirty work that he had done to them in Ekiti State. 3. In build-up towards the Osun State elections, the commander directed me as his intelligence officer who had worked with him perfectly in Ekiti State to go ahead and recce (Army word for Spy or Survey ) the area as well as familiarize myself with all stakeholders for the election. While I and my team were working for the operations, the commander was in Abuja re-strategizing how to use the military to rig the election. Feelers based on my discussion with him on phone confirmed to me beyond reasonable doubt that we were repeating the same compromise in Osun State. My heart got burnt and became disenchanted and in total disagreement with such being professional junior officer
aspiring to become a General tomorrow. 4. However, efforts to explain my grievances prove abortive due to the military dictatorial hierarchy in channel of communication vis-a-vis threat of court martial from the commander. I resorted to alert the APC high level officials with the aim of stopping the Army from partisan involvement during election. A week to the election, the commander came back from Abuja and he made revelations being their final arrangement on how the PDP was to become victorious in Osun State as follows: A. After welcome address by the commander, he thanked all his staff officers, and said “you all know who we are working for, so you guys MUST follow my direction. I am working for the presidency and the ruling party as you all know, is no longer a hidden thing” for those of you who are moles among us, the presidency is watching you, be careful because the consequence will be severe. I learnt that some of you went to Lagos and met with Tinubu without knowing that his line is already bugged in Abuja, then we are in trouble, but before somebody will kill me, I have to kill him first” (referring to me). The commander asked how many of us were involved, that I should say the truth, he now held a secret talk with the operation officer and military police officer to tie and handcuff me to Army HQs, from there I knew that my life was in danger. B. The commander categorically told us that the soldiers were to work under PDP agents while their platoon commanders only supervised the soldiers conduct. He briefed the officers that were working the list of agents and those to be arrested at the SGF office in Abuja and once the list is out, everybody must work with accordingly. C. The commander briefed us on the formation of a strike-force in conjunction with the police, DSS and NSCDC and he would command the strike force directly. Their duty was to work directly with the PDP
aspirant for arrest and intimidation of APC supporters in their strong hold. D. Money was shared openly at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Ede to the strike force to ensure compliance. 5. Having said all of the above, I must state before concluding that: A, My brother, Adamu Koli, a 15yrs old school boy was under detention since on the 2nd August 2014. The boy stayed with me at 32 Artillery-Brigade, Akure. B. Brigadier General AM Dikko who they consulted initially for the scam insisted that the army must remain professional and apolitical, was disgracefully removed from his command which he served only for 7 months just to allow General Momoh to carry out the dirty work. 6. Last but not the least, to further substantiate my submission and how my dear-loving, hard-achieving noble calling was de-professionalized; here are the recorded voices of the Ministers, the aspirant and the Brigade Commander. Other officers present at the hotel were Major Aliyu and Captain Adegoke who were also part of the officers that escorted the commander to the venue where the compromise was made. Also, conversation between the commander and Abuja could be traced via MTN, GLO, on the underlisted phone numbers (between 20-21 June 2014). A. 08037033694 B. 08055832835 7. Lastly, in order to strengthen the unity and continued existence of Nigeria, I call on the Federal Government to desist from using the military for partisan politics. This is to avoid the military from being divided along ethnic and regional lines which is dangerous to the defence of the nation. I remain a patriotic Nigerian and a loyal professional Army Officer. God bless you all. Thank you for listening. Captain Sagir Koli. Culled from Premium Times
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osun Defender Tuesday, February
Nigeria Treads On Bailing Path ‘One day, the good people in the progressives and good ones in the conservatives will come together and form a political party that will bail out this country (Nigeria) from the hands of oppressors’. Chief Obafemi Awolowo (At the last Convention, 1983)
W
hen taking a critical look at the above assertion, as submitted by the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, of blessed memory and with the development in our polity, where different political parties have formed an alliance, it seems as if the reality of a dream of bailing out our beloved country from the hands of oppressors, as being prophesied, is rightly around the corner. Meanwhile, the statement could have been made by the foremost nationalist, having foreseen the likelihood of same in the foreseeable future. It reminds me of a Yoruba adage that says “Oro agba bi o se ni owuro, bi o pe titi ase ni ojo ale” meaning that no matter how long it may be, a word of an elder will surely come to pass one day. There is no doubting the fact that Chief Obafemi Awolowo was one of the most cerebral of the great early nationalists and founding fathers of Nigeria, who fought through thick and thin for the independence of our great nation. Other foremost nationalists and fathers worthy of note include, Pa Anthony Enahoro, who first moved the motion for independence in 1953 in London before it was granted in 1960; Dr Nnamidi Azikwe, Sir Tafawa Balewa and host of others, all of blessed memories. They all went for Nigeria’s independence, a totally-free country with good mission having realized the fact that Nigeria could stand alone with all her endowed human and mineral resources. Nigeria was colonized by Britain in 1885 and became a British Protectorate in 1901. Colonization lasted when our great fathers, through Herculean tasks and commitment, succeeded in their movement in gaining for Nigeria its independence. Nigeria officially became an independent country on October 1st 1960. Nigerians’ joy knew no bounds over the long expected development in the history of their country. The independence was aimed at a sole mission of building perfect conducive nation
•awolowo By FOLARIN LAWAL
for millions of inhabitants through judicious use of its endowed natural resources. These leaders of note, without any iota of doubt, represented the symbols of true love of the country at hearts, transparent honesty, discipline, dedication and commitment to a befitting nation that geared their mission of getting off the hook of British colonization. Without being economized with the truth, Nigeria is by all international standards a great country. Part of the wealthiest land in the world belongs to Nigeria. Demonstrably, we have oil, which we have virtually been living on, but we have large reservoir of other natural mineral resources and indisputably, Nigeria is inherently rich. Another of God’s munificent endowment is the intellectual wealth of the people and that is evident in the brain drain, which has attained
global recognition. But quite unfortunate indeed of a nation, ever since its attainment of independence, despite all her endowed human and other natural resources, to borrow the words of Winston Churchill, “we are still progressing backwards” in many aspects of our endeavours, which are urgently in need of development. Luckless of godly public-spirited rulers to administer our affairs has been the major challenge confronting our dear nation. Our existence as independent country has been nothing to write home about, when compared with other very young independent African countries. We virtually have nothing to show after many years of our existence as a nation. To start with, incessant power failure has become the order of the day, as we virtually still live in darkness. Our economy is in shambles, which has forced many Nigerians out of the country on
daily basis, seeking refuge in other developed countries of the world. Insecurity is atrocious; where citizens live at their own risks. Corruption is the order of the day, which has eroded our international credibility. Corruption has become terribly endemic within our nation. It is the cankerworm that has eaten very deeply into the fabric of our societal life. It is extremely ruinous to our political, democratic, social and economic lives. It is fast pushing us into unstoppable backwardness and the earlier something is done, the better. Our educational system has collapsed totally, while unemployment breeds redundancy among the youths. These are some of our nagging problems that crave for urgent and most important attention but hitherto, could not be dauntlessly addressed, but only allowed to deteriorate to the detriment of the downtrodden masses. Quite candidly, the wealth of this country is still locked in the vaults and bank accounts of a few, very few indeed, in the society. However, the development in our polity in recent times that attracted several different political parties in their resolve to come together with the aim to change Nigeria for better is optimistically working out the dream of late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, as indicated above, where in was averred that a day is coming when good people in both progressives and conservatives camps will come together under a political party, with the aim of bailing out this country, Nigeria, from being abysmally governed. That undoubtedly brought about the title of this article: “Nigeria Treads on Bailing Path’ having strictly followed the trend of things. Our country, blessed with milk and honey, must be bailed out of her present predicaments through the emergence of a leadership that will perfectly bridge the gulf, which currently exists between our country’s potentials and its full realization. We need people that will seek office with the aim of serving this nation and improving the lots of its people. If luckily achieved, a great day is coming when Nigeria will stand up and be counted as one of the most developed countries in the world and Nigerians will hold their heads high in all lands and climes.
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osun Defender Tuesday, February
Our Victory: We Return All Glory To Almighty God
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he lies and orchestrated falsehood of Osun PDP and their cyber-rodents have been laid to rest by the close to eight hours’ comprehensive judgment of Justice Kpejimeled Osun Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, which affirmed the unassailable victory of Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola, as the authentic winner of the August 9, 2014 gubernatorial election in the State of osun. We are all living witnesses to various lies churned out to give an impression that Aregbesola rigged the August 9 election, despite the fact that the PDP and Federal Government did all manners of things to wrestle power from Ogbeni at all cost. They started with the lie that Aregbesola ran away from accepting the service of the petition on him, as if he should sit down in a place to wait for the service when the rule is clear about service of process. When that one failed, they brought another lie that Governor Rauf Aregbesola prayed for rerun in his reply to the petition filed by Iyiola Omisore and the PDP. The unfortunate aspect of this particular falsehood was the involvement of The Tribune Newspapers in its propagation. It was so bad that the legal team had to write a letter to newspaper management, accompanied with a copy of the reply filed in the court registry, which forced The Tribune to recount her story. The PDP’s lie machinery went further to feed the public with another concocted story of recount at the INEC office, wherein they claimed that ballot papers had been recounted, which placed Omisore in a clear lead. The false story was syndicated to the press to the extent that Africa Independent Television (AIT) put the story on its website, only to write an apology, after realising it was all false. In the heat of the petition, the PDP and her cyber-rodents, including mushroom journalists of the print, came with another falsehood that Court of Appeal, Akure had declared null and void, all elections conducted by the former Resident Electoral Commissioner, Ambassador Akeju, when in actual fact, what was determined was an interlocutory appeal, that has nothing to do with the tenure of those elected. It should be known that the second petition filed by Accord Party candidate, Niyi Owolade, was filed on behalf of PDP. The
•aregbesola By Ibrahim Lawal
petition was filed mainly to cause distraction to achieve certain ends. It was the petition they used to write against the first tribunal chairman, Justice Bako, which led to his sudden removal as the chairman of the panel. If not for the vigilance of the APC team, they would have succeeded in ramming down our throat, a PDP apologist as the chairman of the tribunal. When the tribunal began hearing, PDP came with another lie that all their documents, which they tendered at the tribunal, were admitted in evidence, despite the fact that the tribunal stated clearly that the ruling on admissibility of those documents was differed. The shenanigans were played up by the radio arm of Omisore, Crown FM, situated in Ile-Ife, wherein all manners of lies were churned out on hourly basis. The station was given the mandate to spread nothing but falsehood to the gullible minds that permeates PDP in the state. As if that was not enough, they graduated from that to another level of falsehood, where they began to report that their witnesses established cases of over-voting, mutilation and super-imposition of results in various wards and
units being challenged, when in actual facts, their witnesses were crumbling like packs of cards during cross-examination. A particular interesting scenario was The Punch report that Omisore established over-voting in Oriade Local Governmentn Council Area of the state. It took the effort of the counsel to Governor Rauf Aregbesola, who reported the incident and the publication to the Tribunal before it became clear to the members of the public that such did not happen. This particular story was hyped by various notorious PDP cyberrodents to the extent that you will feel that the election petition was concluded and Aregbesola was out of the Government House. The drama of absurd continued, when the 1st Respondent called his witnesses, who were voters and testified to the fairness of the election. These people, in their characteristic manner, went to town, aided by their “Cry FM” (Crown FM) to spread all manners of falsehood, contrary to what happened in court. They went to town claiming that some of the witnesses, who were O’YES cadets admitted that they were used to rig the election. Not done, they also made up story about age and occupation of witnesses, as reflected in the voters’ register. When the Respondents closed
their case, especially the 3rd Respondent, INEC, they went to town claiming that INEC ran away from calling witnesses because of overwhelming evidence against them. The drama was played to the high heaven, as if it was the responsibility of INEC to prove their case for them. The final written address was the climax of their shenanigans. Despite the glaring failure of their case, as enumerated by the counsel to all the Respondents, which Omisore and PDP did not have answers for, they went to town in a wild celebration on a submission made by the Counsel to Omisore and PDP, which is totally alien to law and common sense and gave their gullible followers impression that they had won the petition. As a prelude to the delivery of the judgment, a lot of noise were made on the social media that Aregbesola would be dethroned on the day of judgment, not minding the fact that the judgment would go up to the Supreme Court for final adjudication. But for them, with the Federal might, Aregbesola would be sent packing immediately the judges pronounced their verdict. They alleged unintelligently that Aregbesola had been moving up and down to buy the judgment with humongous amount of money. All these and other fabrications rented the air before the judgment day. To show how devilish and criminal-minded these disgruntled elements are, even at the point of delivering judgment and the tribunal Chair was already throwing out their case, they were still on air lying to people that the results of election were being cancelled from one local government to the other. Wi t h a l l t h e f a l s e h o o d , Aregbesola was affirmed as the winner of the August 9th governorship election and dismissed the petition for lacking merit. I congratulate Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola on his confirmation as the authentic winner of the August 9 governorship election in the State of Osun. I also give kudos to all the legal team, particularly our cyber warriors for feeding the public nothing but the truth, as to the happenings at the tribunal. Finally, I give glory and adoration to Almighty Allah, the giver and taker of life in whom all souls will return.
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osun Defender Tuesday, February
Job Vacancies In Nigeria
Lorache Consulting Job Vacancies in Lagos, 7th February 2015 Lorache Consulting - Our client, an FMCG company is recruiting to fill the below position: Job Title: Sales Analyst Location: Lagos Job Description Prepares sales forecasts and collects and analyzes data to evaluate current sales goals. Researches and evaluates current economic conditions that may affect the organization’s ability to sell its products or services in the marketplace. Assists in the development of sales quotas and forecasts for the sales team. Recommends changes to current sales techniques, procedures or promotional efforts based on market research and new trends Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Requirements B.Sc/HND in Statistics, Mathematics, Economics, Marketing 3 to 5 years experience in a similar role. Job Title: Business Development/Sales Manager Location: Lagos Job Role Sales and Business Development Work closely with the GM to develop sales targets. Work closely with other departments and managers to design and execute strategies and sales promotions built around developing new business. Identify and attend tradeshows and other business functions to keep abreast of developments in the marketplace, to find potential new business, and to market Strada’s/BMC end-to-end solutions. Contribute to driving peak performance and sales success across the Company Devise key client / CRM strategies across the Company, to drive repeat sales and customer loyalty Develop strategies to communicate and showcase the Company’s new products to prospective and existing clients Build relationships with new and existing clients in an attempt to increase their current spend Acquire new customers for BMC through various media and marketing platforms such as advertising, print and electronic media, digital and social media, events and strategic partnerships etc. Requirements Minimum of B.Sc/HND from a reputable higher institution. Must have 3-5 years experience. Advertising preferably experience in the Outdoor/Out-of-Home Advertising Industry. Job Title: Customer Care Officer Location: Lagos Requirements Candidates should possess O’level qualification Minimum of 1 year experience in similar role. Ability to learn fast. Job Title: Application Support Coordinator Location: Lagos Qualification and Experience B.Sc, HND in Computer Studies. 2-3 experience in ERP and other application, good communication and interpersonal skill. Essential KRAs: Working with ERP (MSdynamics). Support ERP users and Training them. Working with AMS Team (third party) for MS Dynamics and Resolve. Working closely with Key Users and End user Good in MS Office. Better understanding on business. Working experience on Network and system Support. Job Title: Head Marketing (Female) Location: Lagos Role: Head/VP/GM-Marketing Job Descriptions Planning and development of aggressive marketing strategies for the category, with a view to ensure brand positioning, market penetration and increase in market share. Drive the marketing plans for the various categories of business in conjunction with sales to grow Value and volume of transactions. Understanding of Digital Marketing platforms and processes Has led large teams, with focus on consulting, execution and delivery excellence Develop and drive trade promotion schemes for retailers in conjunction with Sales Manage the marketing budget and deliver marketing activity within agreed budget Monitor, review and report on all marketing activities and drive results Develops and deliver appropriate marketing/brand communication Manage market research and develop insights to translate them into channel strategy and communication Develop insights on consumer behavior to translate them into relevant product offerings Collaborate with all the other functions to deliver the category strategy for the company Channel of information for the management team on relevant developments in the market and accordingly recommends action to be taken Bringing various service providers for the categories and jointly developing business plans with them for visibility & BTL activities for the category. Key Skills: Marketing Desired Candidate Profile Education: UG: Any Graduate. PG: MBA/PGDM. Doctorate: Doctorate Not Required. Experience: Candidates having retail experience can only apply. Experienced Marketers with preference in Banking and Insurance.
How to Apply Qualified and Interested candidate should send their CV’s and Applications to: jobs@lorachegroup.com Application Deadline 13th February, 2015. ——————————————————————————————————————— Graduate Customer Relations Officer Vacancy at Michael Stevens Consulting, Lagos Michael Stevens Consulting - Our client, is one of the largest and most successful conglomerates in the industrial, trading and building sectors of Nigeria. Michael Stevens Consulting is recruiting to fill the position of: Job Title: Customer Relations Officer Location: Lagos Key Responsibilities Take responsibility for being the first point of contact for all callers to the Customer Service Centre and ensuring that a high quality of service is delivered at all times. Carry out all administrative tasks relating to the Customer Service Centre and any necessary follow-up work in relation to incoming calls. Maintain a comprehensive knowledge of Group departments, services, policies and procedures in relation to the role. Ensure that relevant departments are made aware of concerns raised by customers so that they may carry out corrective action. Keep accurate records of discussions or correspondence with customers. Take ownership and responsibility for all enquiries presented to the Customer Service Centre, identify customer needs, and utilising appropriate questioning and listening skills to identify and offer appropriate solutions. Ensure that all computerised systems are used effectively to help process customer enquiries and accurately maintain all records in a time critical environment. Deal with all calls received within the Customer Service Centre in line with current Service Level Agreements, policies and procedures. Qualifications A Bachelors degree or equivalent in a relevant social science discipline. Must possess a minimum of 5 years relevant professional working experience. Relevant professional certifications e.g Customer Relationship Management (CRM). A Masters degree in a relevant discipline will be an added advantage.
Key Skills: Demonstrate initiative with a results orientation, while exhibiting strong drive and leadership skills. Ability to drive client focused outcomes. Candidate must possess strategic business focus and strong communication skills. Ability to apply innovative approaches, to work in team, analyze and summarize and also pay attention to details and objectives. Possess a good understanding of business processes. How to Apply Qualified candidates should send their CV’s to: jobs@michaelstevens-consulting.com or msjobz@gmail. com The subject of the email should be the job position being applied for. Application Deadline Friday, 13th February, 2015. ————————————————————————— Gilead Pharmaceuticals Limited Job Vacancies, 7th February 2015 Gilead Pharmaceuticals Limited is recruiting to fill the below position: Job Title: Food and Nutrition Customer Service Specialist Location: Lagos Job Description This is an exciting opportunity for an individual looking for a fast paced environment where experience will be drawn upon to effectively assist in resolving customer issues. This individual will also be involved in product testing, documentation and hosting occasional phone training sessions as needed. Job Responsibilities Provide timely and efficient application and basic technical support to existing customers via phone, web and/or email Address account escalations and deal with unique customer requirements Keep accurate documentation of support activities and communications The successful candidate must be able to work under pressure in a busy environment and have an aptitude for logical problem solving taking ownership until resolution. Keep customer informed of progression with issues and provide follow up Continually review, revise and update customer account data for accuracy, including contacts and mailing information Provide support and assistance to remote and internal team members Qualifications Required Skills and Qualifications: Requires bachelor’s degree in foods and nutrition, dietetics, or a related field OR the equivalent of 1-2 years’ work experience in the above mentioned areas Strong PC and system navigation skills, specifically in a Windows-based environment Previous customer service or support and/or basic technical experience required Excellent verbal and written communication skills and interpersonal skills required Knowledge and Abilities: Basic knowledge of food and/or nutrition-related information is a must Proven ability to meet deadlines, problem solve and teach others Excellent organizational, and customer service skills Must be able to work independently as well as coordinate efforts with other team members on universal customer issues. Able to multi-task in a fast-paced environment/set priorities within time constraints Courteous and professional phone manner, demeanor and attitude are essential Job Title: Business Analyst Location: Lagos Job Description Analyze sales and marketing project and budgets Review and analyze sales and pricing reports Liaise with external auditors Profit and loss reporting Assist with annual budget Requirements HND/BA/B.SC Must have excellent English skills Must be conversant with Microsoft packages Minimum of 1 year experience within a similar role Be able to work under pressure Must have an understanding of supply chain How to Apply Qualified and interested applicants should forward their CV’s to: gileadpharm@gmail.com Note: Only shortlisted applicants would be contacted. Application Deadline 4th March, 2015 Must be totally committed. Job Title: Female Sales Assistant Job Type: Full Time Location: Lekki Ajah axis, Lagos Responsibilities Sell specific products and services to consumers. Attending to customer. Process orders in person and over the phone. Check inventory to ensure product is in stock. Bag and package purchases. Collect methods of payment and dispense change. Represent and promote the organization with products and services at in-home product presentations, showrooms, and home shows as required. Skills and Qualification Trustworthiness and high regard for personal integrity. Ability to learn fast. Fantastic attitude. Good communication and interpersonal skill. This role is for (OND or a smart SSCE holder). Required Experience: 1 - 3 years Job Title: Security Officer (Male) Job Type: Full Time Location: Lekki Ajah axis, Lagos Responsibilities Secures premises and personnel by patrolling property; monitoring surveillance equipment; inspecting buildings, equipment, and access points; permitting entry. Obtains help by sounding alarms. Prevents losses and damage by reporting irregularities; informing violators of policy and procedures; restraining trespassers. Completes reports by recording observations, information, occurrences, and surveillance activities; interviewing witnesses; obtaining signatures. Maintains environment by monitoring and setting building and equipment controls. Maintains organization’s stability and reputation by complying with legal requirements. Ensures operation of equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; following manufacturer’s instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions; calling for repairs; evaluating new equipment and techniques. Contributes to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed. Skills and Qualification Trustworthiness and high regard for personal integrity. Ability to learn fast. Fantastic attitude. Good communication and interpersonal skill. This role is for (OND or a smart SSCE holder). Required Experience: 1 - 3 years How to Apply Interested and qualified candidates should send their applications and CV’s to: gigastreamsconsulting@ gmail.com then copy careers@gigastreamsconsulting.com Note: The subject of your email should be the job title Application Deadline 12th, February, 2015 ——————————————————————————————————————
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foreign news
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osun Defender Tuesday, February
As Baghdad Lifts Curfew, Bombs Are Reminder Of Country At War
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ive blasts across Baghdad on Saturday tempered checkpoints closed. Iraqis’ anticipation of a more relaxed and accessible Residents awaited the end capital as the government prepared to lift a night- of the curfew on Saturday time curfew that has kept the city on a war-time footing evening with a mixture of for more than a decade. anticipation and fear. The bombings earlier in At least 37 people, mostly the day and in recent weeks speed through the city with civilians, were killed in reinforced fears among the explosions, security armed guards. Last week’s decisions some that the end of the and medical sources said, and dozens of others were m e a n h e a v y w e a p o n s curfew would spark more w i l l b e b a n n e d f r o m attacks. wounded. “You can see that things The attacks included specified districts and some a suicide bombing at a restaurant in a Shi’ite neighborhood and improvised explosives he Japanese government scored higher public devices planted in a bustling approval ratings for Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s central market district, handling of the hostage crisis involving two underscoring the peril Japanese captured in Syria and killed by Islamic State ordinary people still face militants, polls published this week showed. from militant violence in Japan’s biggest dailyto Yomiuri foundthe that group support released for Abe’s government had risen 58 after Baghdad. percent from 53 percent in footage appearing to show Bombings have waned and waxed for nearly 12 January. The paper surveyed the beheaded body of years, but they have not 1,054 people by telephone another Japanese hostage, ceased since the U.S.-led on Friday and Saturday for Haruna Yukawa. Abe has vowed to step invasion to topple Saddam the poll, which was the first since the hostages were up humanitarian aid to the Hussein in 2003. militant group’s opponents Ending the curfew and killed. A separate poll released in the Middle East and “demilitarizing” several neighborhoods is part of by Kyodo on Saturday bring the killers to justice. a campaign to normalize also showed an increase in The gruesome executions life in Iraq’s war-blighted support for Abe. More than and the recordings of Goto capital. Officials hope to 60 percent of respondents released by the militant demonstrate that Baghdad said they approved of the group captured the attention no longer faces a threat government’s response to of the pacifist nation. A majority of the Japanese from Islamic State, the the hostage crisis. Islamic State militants surveyed by both Yomiuri militant group which seized large areas of northern and beheaded journalist Kenji and Kyodo agreed with Goto last month, a week Japan’s plan to continue western Iraq last year. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi, a moderate Shi’ite Islamist who took office in September, has struggled ermany’s Angela Merkel said on Saturday to develop a broad support that sending arms to help Ukraine fight probase. Russian separatists would not solve the crisis Improving quality of life there, drawing sharp rebukes from U.S. politicians who in Baghdad could represent a s m a l l b u t t a n g i b l e accused Berlin of turning its back on an ally in distress. The heated exchanges at a security conference in Munich achievement as he seeks to turn back the tide against pointed to cracks in the would help resolve the Islamic State while mending transatlantic consensus on conflict. rifts between polarized how to confront Russian “I understand the debate sectarian communities that President Vladimir Putin but I believe that more have stoked violence. over a deepening conflict weapons will not lead “This will benefit us in eastern Ukraine that has to the progress Ukraine greatly, because we have killed more than 5,000. needs. I really doubt that,” felt imprisoned for the past Ukraine’s military said sa id the c onse r va tive 11 years,” a shopper in the German leader, who has central Karrada district said on Saturday that pro- led western efforts to try to Russian separatists had hours before the curfew was stepped up shelling of resolve the crisis through set to end. negotiations and will travel “This is the bravest government forces and to Washington on Sunday appeared to be amassing decision that Haider alAbadi has taken. This shows troops for new offensives for talks with Obama. B L A N KETS V S that the country is somewhat on the key railway town of Debaltseve and the TANKS safe.” U.S. senators Lyndsey I n t e r i o r m i n i s t r y coastal city of Mariupol. Graham and John McCain, s p o k e s m a n B r i g a d i e r [ID:nL5N0VH0D1] The rebel offensive has two Republican hawks who General Saad Maan said he did not believe Saturday’s triggered a flurry of shuttle attended the conference, explosions were linked to diplomacy, with Merkel and were withering in their the government’s decision French President Francois criticism of the German this week to lift the midnight Hollande jetting to Moscow stance, which is supported (1600 ET) to 5 a.m. curfew on Friday to try to convince by other big European countries like France. on Saturday at midnight. Putin to do a peace deal. Security forces pressed “At the end of the day, to But European officials ahead with plans to end the acknow ledge that the our European friends, this curfew, setting up mobile Russian leader may have is not working,” Graham checkpoints to forestall little incentive to negotiate said of Merkel’s diplomatic bombings and criminal acts now, preferring to sit back efforts. “You can go to like kidnapping, which has and watch as separatists Moscow until you turn became more common since s e i z e m o r e t e r r i t o r y, blue in the face. Stand up last summer. undermining a ceasefire to what is clearly a lie and STILL CAUTIOUS agreement clinched last a danger.” The curfew has become September in the Belarus McCain added: “The a fact of life in Baghdad, as capital Minsk. Ukrainians are being have the towering gray blast T h e G e r m a n l e a d e r slaughtered and we’re walls around many buildings conceded in Munich that sending them blankets and and checkpoints that have it was uncertain whether meals. Blankets don’t do curtailed commercial and a Franco-German peace well against Russian tanks.” civilian movement. U.S. Vice President Joe R e s i d e n t s o f t e n plan presented to Kiev and Biden, also speaking in Moscow this week would complain of having to Munich, tried to play down wait in long lines of traffic succeed. differences with Europe, B u t s h e r e j e c t e d at checkpoints on major saying he and Obama the notion that sending roads and at the entrances agreed that no efforts weapons to Kiev, an idea to many neighborhoods, should be spared to resolve being considered by U.S. while politicians’ convoys President Barack Obama, the conflict peacefully.
are not as good as before. Bombings are coming back,” said Anwar, 25, a shop owner in Shourja, near the site of Saturday’s market blast. A former soldier in the eastern Adhamiya district criticized the decision to lift the curfew, saying it would give criminal gangs more freedom to operate.
“They couldn’t control them at day, what about night-time?” he said, declining to be named. Others, though still cautious, were taking advantage of having one of Baghdad’s many restraints eliminated. “Removing the curfew is bad because it strains the security forces and we have
to be more alert now,” said a volunteer paramilitary fighter outside a night club on the banks of the Tigris River. “I’m taking my leave now so I come here for a few hours of relief and to forget that I have to go to work again.”
PM Abe’s Approval Ratings Rise In Japan After Hostage
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humanitarian aid to regions affected by the Islamic State. In terms of how Japan should respond to the Islamic State threat, 57 percent of people polled by Kyodo said any response should be non-military. Abe’s popularity had slipped in more recent polls after the resignations of key cabinet ministers and due to Japan’s floundering economy, though his party won a landslide snap election in December. The killings of the hostages have fanned calls to allow Japan’s longconstrained military to conduct overseas rescue missions as part of Abe’s push for a more muscular security posture.
•Japanese Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe
Merkel Defends Ukraine Arms Stance In Face Of U.S.
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But he made clear that Washington stood ready to provide Ukraine with the means to defend itself, saying: “Too many times President Putin has promised peace and delivered tanks, troops and weapons.” A senior State Department official at the Munich talks also denied there was a rift between Washington and the Europeans. “We will see where we end up policy-wise, but as of now with the diplomatic approach and with the situation regarding the provision of weapons we are all on the same place,” the official said. EMOTIONAL PLEA Russia’s annexation of the Crimean peninsula in March last year and evidence that it is supporting separatist forces in the east of the country, which the Kremlin denies, have driven Moscow’s relations with the West to a post-Cold War low. The EU and United States have imposed a series of sanctions against Moscow that have contributed to a sharp downturn in the Russian economy. Merkel and her allies in Europe want to continue to punish Russia by tightening the economic screws. Obama faces pressure from members of Congress to do more. The senior State Department official said the Franco-German initiative was based on a peace plan reached in Minsk last September but added it contained more details on implementation and timing
of the deal. The September Minsk peace plan called for a ceasefire as part of a 12-point blueprint for peace. It also called for tighter control of the joint Russia-Ukraine border, through which Kiev says Moscow is funneling fighters and equipment, and the freeing of prisoners held by the two sides. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said on Saturday the deal with Moscow could only work if all 12 elements of the Minsk agreement, sealed last September in Belarus, were respected. Since the agreement, however, pro-Russian separatists have made huge territorial gains in eastern Ukraine, fueling doubts over whether they will respect it in its current form. In an emotional plea for support in Munich, Poroshenko listed the number of troops and civilians that had been killed since the crisis started and held up red passports of Russian soldiers he said had been found fighting in Ukraine. “We are an independent nation and we have a right to defend our people,” he said, calling for political, economic and military support. Calling himself a “president of peace”, he made clear that Kiev only wanted defensive weaponry. He received strong backing from Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite, who said Ukraine should be supported “with all means necessary to defend, not to
attack, to defend its people and its territory.” Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, also in Munich, said there were “good grounds for optimism” that the talks between Merkel, Putin and Hollande could yield a deal. But Lavrov also delivered a diatribe against the West. He accused Europe and the United States of supporting a “coup d’etat” against deposed Ukrainian leader Viktor Yanukovich, a Moscow ally, a year ago and turning a blind eye to nationalists he said were intent on ethnic cleansing in eastern Ukraine. Hollande, speaking to reporters in the city of Tulle in central France, cast the talks with Putin as a lastditch effort to avert fullblown conflict. T h e F r e n c h l e a d e r, Merkel, Poroshenko and Putin are due to hold a call on Sunday, before the chancellor travels to Washington. “If we don’t manage to find not just a compromise but a lasting peace agreement, we know perfectly well what the scenario will be. It has a name, it’s called war,” Hollande said.
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osun Defender Tuesday, February
Jonathan’s Sun Sets In The East
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resident G o o d l u c k Jonathan has missed being the sun of the nation’s life and that of the pit of degradation, called the Niger Delta. Everlasting night has settled upon Nigeria, spurred by moral bankruptcy and the clueless chaos of his governance. There is nothing his administration has done that inspires hope in the people within the last six years. Nigerians have grown accustomed to the deafening cacophonies of missing billions in the oil sector and the NNPC accounts, pension fund looting, oil bunkering, abandoned projects, devaluation of the nation’s currency, spilling of innocent blood by the nihilist Boko haram militias etc. Most of all, mega-corruption and the government’s inability to tame the bloodcurdling insurgents Boko Haram has been President Jonathan’s undoing. He could not use his “Omnipotent Government” to suppress the vices because he is a beneficiary of the self-inflicted crises. President Jonathan’s government has been a major source of mischief and disaster ever witnessed in Nigeria. Granted that the worst evils, which mankind ever had to endure, were inflicted by governments in human history, but there come a time, the people strive for change, and the time is now. The above statement was echoed, not exactly the same, by no less a personage than the fierce and fire spitting Catholic Priest, Reverend Father Ejike Mbaka. The iron-cast priest obviously ventilated Ludwig Von Mises, the Austrian School Economist, Sociologist, and classical liberal, who became prominent for his work in praxeology, a deductive study of human choice and action. “There is no more dangerous menace to civilisation than a government of incompetent, corrupt, or vile men,” Von said. Mbaka hits the bull’s eye, when he told President Jonathan the stark truth he hates to hear: “What is the fate of our children? Tears fill my eyes when I see our young graduates hoping and walking our streets. What is the meaning of kidnapping? Kidnapping is the grandson of unemployment. Boko Haram is a great grandchild of the same unemployment, mass looting, and poor governance”. “President Jonathan cannot lead Nigeria. As things stand right now, from the oracle of the Holy Spirit, Jonathan should honourably resign quietly and let Nigeria be. The destiny of Nigeria is greater than Goodluck Jonathan. The Goodluck in Jonathan has become a bad luck to Nigerians. Whatever brought him in should send him back and let Nigeria be. By this time in few months to come, many are going to lose their jobs and there is no alternative”
•jonathan By Erasmus Ikhide
“During election, Jonathan will answer Azikiwe, Ebele and become an Igbo man and after election, the Ebele, the Azikiwe and Goodluck will vanish from his identity. Who is fooling who actually? Look at our federal roads, we are not even asking for new ones, roads built by Buhari and Babangidas, the so called Hausa people, cannot be maintained. Follow Enugu here to Onitsha, children born some years ago do not know that there was a lane along the other side of Isiagwu and we are all saying continue. The continuity of Jonathan means disaster to Nigeria.” “When there is no road, no power, all these fake promises… where is the power? That Onitsha Bridge, has it now been built? No. After 6 years, and Goodluck has what it takes to do whatever. He surrounded himself with hooligans. By the time he comes down, he won’t have anybody to work with. He played himself into the hands of hooligans. My interest is about the wellness of this country. Nigeria must survive. What we are passing through is by the help of God. The same God who saved us from Ebola will save us from this bad luck season (shouts of AMEN from the congregation)”. “Look at it, there was a time there was an argument about pension fund; such billions. Who is talking about it now? Billions and we were hearing it… from excess crude oil
modern civilisation and governance is not entirely humility, but a great deal of granite hardness, as the need arises to trample on closest friends, who stand in the way of the masses. With one stroke of abhorrence for corruption, President Jonathan could have transformed Nigeria. In President Jonathan’s administration, Nigerians have lost one of the nation’s supposed great educationist, whose products we have not yet found in our time their fullest use, to corruption! He missed the chance to wear the cap described in Mein Kampf, The Struggle Of My Life: “From millions of men, one man must step forward, who with apodictic force, will form granite principles from the wavering ideaworld of the broad masses and take up the struggle for their sole correctness, until the shifting waves of a free thought-world, there will arise a brazen cliff of solid unity in faith and will”. World-historical men, the Heroes of an epoch, must therefore be recognised as its clearsighted ones, their deeds, their worlds are the best of their time. You can now gauge why President Goodluck Jonathan’s government is besotted by treachery, overwhelmed by violence visited on it by the Boko Haram, drowned in blood and will go up in flames in an orgy of self-willed annihilation, which will answer some terrible longing question in the minds of Nigeria. The President, who ought to be a man of staggering political genius, an incredible reformer by the reason of his education and experience, has yielded to crass opportunism and mega-corruption. How Mr President fell madly in love with corruption and brought himself firmly in touch with mediocrity is out of touch with the taunted story of his humble background and the shoeless narrative. It is either that corruption was imprinted on his receptive mind or his sensitive soul veers relentless to his earlier shoeless state. Whichever way, President Jonathan’s sun has set at midnight in the Eastern part of Nigeria, at the Adoration Ground, where he holds a portion of the nation to a grand illusion of oneness and slavish governance.
money, where is the impact of the excess crude oil money? Now from oil boom, it has met a bad luck; it’s now oil doom. If my father will be my leader and my siblings will all die, let a stranger be my leader and let my family be,” Rev. Mbaka said. I quoted the Catholic Priest at great length because of his religious standing, his following, his geopolitical firmament and the ethno-religious sentiments that have dampened Nigeria political growth. Political leaders, who failed to fulfil electoral promises to the electorate, deliberately appeal or exploit ethnocentric and religious sentiments of their selfish gains in sections of the country. No Nigerian leader has gained popularity through divisive politicking, ethno-religious grandstanding than President Goodluck Jonathan. Then what is government, if it is not to promote human happiness and welfare? All the blemishes plaguing this administration came as a result of the parasitic sycophants, who •Erasmus wrote in from Lagos, give the president a halo of false Nigeria. glory and are hell bent on feasting dangerously on the nation’s easy oil wealth. The reason, lamentably, is that Mr Jonathan didn’t attain ideological maturation before he found himself in the corridors of power. He is being goaded on by dint of virtual Providence and veritable Luck. Minds more developed and ideologically balanced have proved that one of the greatest bequests to
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Tuesday, february 10, 2015
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he best way to keep soul, body and spirit together in a healthy manner is to keep hope alive. Hope that is nurtured in positive optimism often keeps one radiant. The body will be spared the rigmarole of psychological trauma that usually incubates immunity destroyers in the body, if and only if the nurtured hope is not shrouded in fallacious premeditation. This goes a long way in reducing the propensity of high blood pressure, which in the long run causes damage to body’s mechanism of interconnectivity and immunity. Body cells are damaged; and this eventually leads to untimely death for so many people as vital organs of the body are rendered dysfunctional prematurely. Mass mortality is associated with fake optimism that lacks empirical neutrality, because hackers merely raise hopes without revealing the underlying deception and fallacy; so as to realize inordinate ambitions that may not bring tangible benefits to a mass of sufferers from the accompanying ultimate disappointment. This is the case for the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) supporters, who intended to send wrong signals to the State of Osun people, and Nigerians in general a few weeks ago through fake jubilation, with chants that the tribunal sitting in Osogbo to determine the genuineness or otherwise of the claim by the PDP candidate, Iyiola Omisore that the August 9, 2014 gubernatorial election in Osun was determined in favour of the incumbent Governor Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), had ruled in their favour. The presumption was still there, that their failed evil machination could still be upturned to award victory in their favour unjustly. People were surprised to see a group of people that are bereft of sound moral judgement, who failed to ruminate over what may likely constitute negative public opinion, if and when at the end of the day the claim of a favourable ruling at the Tribunal was found to be mere wishful thinking, often orchestrated amongst folks in a mirage world. Those who expressed disappointments on the said extreme display of ignorance were of the opinion that PDP is daily showing to the world that they have nothing to offer Nigerians than to concoct lies and package it for Nigerians as if those lies are domiciled in verifiable concrete information. With their rejection at the polls, in spite of flooding the political terrain with fabulous fables to turn the hearts of voters against incumbent Governor Aregbesola without success, they ought to have woken up from their trance and realized that going ahead with such antics to seek redress would lead to more electoral misfortune bechancing them at the national level. It never came to Osun people as a surprise that the petition was struck out for its demerits and inconsequential litigation substance on petitioner’s ground. It was otherwise not so in the petitioners’ camp; as their slaughtered cows to celebrate their expected
By ade olugbotemi
Desperadoes And The Dashed Inordinate Hope
•aregbesola
imaginary victory eventually became spoils for famished party supporters, who were hitherto cajoled to trust in the perceived invincibility of Goodluck Jonathan’s hapless presidency. The verdict itself would not have come on Friday, February 6, 2015 of all days, because it was a day the hope of celebrating a pseudo-charade in the name of electoral victory that was expected through a back-door arrangement was bungled. The hope of expected double celebration of a life well-spent by the immediate elder sister of the defeated Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)’s Iyiola Omisore, who passed onto glory late last year, and the upturn of Governor Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola’s victory in August 9, 2014 was summarily dashed. Ecstasy absolutely took to flight at the venues of the burial (church service and reception) because of the apprehension associated with the expected tribunal verdict. The case got worse when news filtered into the reception venue that Omisore’s petition has been thrown out for lack of merit. Nobody needed be told that something calamitous had befallen the celebrants, who had expected that Omisore would be hailed and celebrated as the newly-declared Executive Governor of Osun State (as
PDP love to refer to the rechristened State of Osun) at the open space venue of the reception within Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Complex, Ile-Ife . The PDP are also now desperate to hold onto power at the centre, having been condemned to the political Lilliputians’ zone in Nigeria due to mass exodus of their former members, who felt it was time they repented, stopped being draining pipes to our commonwealth under the PDP’s shield and umbrella of corruption, and joined hands with the uncompromising progressives to move the nation forward. The depleted PDP have now forced the electoral umpires to shift the polls, which are expected to take place on February 14 and 28, 2015 to March 28 and April 11 respectively. Speculations of hacked plans to buy time by the ruling party has finally come to the open at the weekend, when Professor Attahiru Jega was made to capitulate to the threat of security vacuum to force an unwarranted poll shift on expectant Nigerians. Custodians of our security apparatus owe Nigerians explanations, why it is now that Nigerians are eager to go to the polls that they feel strongly compelled that Boko Haram’s issue should be tackled. Many people have seen this move as
the highest level of desperation by the bewildered PDP to cleave to power at all cost. Little wonder then that a number of new projects are now being kick-started all over the country to convince (confuse?) people that the socalled transformation agenda is really on course. However, many Nigerians have seen this elections shift as the best thing that can ever happen to Nigeria as a nation, and Nigerians as a people. Not minding the fact that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured Nigerians and the international community of its readiness, PDP surrogates in the military suddenly woke to the belated reality of security risk that North-East insurgency posed, and one that must be quashed. They are of the opinions that with these antics, they will be able to change the mood of Nigerians, who have resolved to see a change to a party that has ruled them for sixteen years without adding noticeable positive value jots to their existence. The shift will surely complicate issues for the ruling PDP, because INEC now has enough time to smoothen the rough edges that would have provided a loophole to challenge in court, the almost certain victory that now beckons at the main opposition All Progressives Congress, being tipped by majority of voting Nigerians to form the government at the centre come May29, 2015. As it stands, collection of Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) has been more pronounced in the troubled zone of the North-West. Many believe that most of the PVCs remaining uncollected either belong to those who have fraudulently engaged in multiple registrations, or are owned by those who are not ready or willing to exercise their civic duties. Since it is not the statutory duty of INEC to take the cards to individual owners’ domiciles, most of those cards will still remain uncollected, even if the extension is for eternity. It is certain that more woes await PDP at the polls in the coming general elections. The political abracadabra in Ekiti State that could not be replicated in the State of Osun has further exposed the fraudulent ways by which PDP crosses the hurdle of electioneering easily in the past. Latest revelations have exposed PDP as a party of artful riggers, which I am sure Nigerians are not prepared to condone anymore. May the good Lord spare our lives till March 28, when PDP will meet their electoral waterloo, and be catastrophically humiliated in what will be adjudged the freest, fairest, and most credible election in Nigeria’s existence as a nation. Let PDP spend all the ill-gotten money they have in reserve to purchase voter’s cards from all hunger-plagued Nigerians, this wind of change will sweep them off Nigeria’s political terrain; just as it has happened in the State of Osun that PDP has now become historical relic.
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