Osun Poly Campus Witnesses Drama as Two Rectors Resume Duty.

Osun Poly Campus Witnesses Drama as Two Rectors Resume Duty.

......Government Orders Closure and Freezes Institution’s Accounts.

The Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, found itself embroiled in a dramatic situation on Thursday as two individuals, Dr. Tajudeen Odetayo and Mr. Kehinde Alabi, resumed their duties as Rectors of the institution, escalating the ongoing administrative crisis.

This turmoil has its roots in the suspension of Dr. Tajudeen Odetayo on July 11, 2023, by the state government, amid allegations of fund misappropriation. In his place, Mr. Kehinde Alabi was appointed as the Acting Rector, further deepening the rift within the institution.

However, Dr. Odetayo, determined to regain his position, took legal action. On August 21, 2023, he approached the Industrial Court with an order of interim injunction to restrain the state government from acting on his suspension and other related matters. Justice O. A Ogunbowale granted the order, halting any actions against Dr. Odetayo pending the resolution of the legal dispute.

The tension reached its peak on Thursday when both Dr. Odetayo and Mr. Alabi returned to the campus. Dr. Odetayo presented the court order to the Chief Security Officer, then proceeded to the Rector's office, escorted by a faction of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic (ASUP) that supported him.

Simultaneously, Mr. Alabi and his ASUP faction gathered in a hall within the campus. In a statement issued by Mr. Alabi, he urged students and staff to remain calm, assuring them that the government was working to restore peace to the campus.

In a surprising turn of events, the Osun State government announced the closure of the State Polytechnic, Iree, for a period of two weeks. Additionally, the government froze the institution's accounts with immediate effect. This decision came in response to the resumption of Dr. Odetayo, who had secured an interim injunction to suspend the execution of his suspension while his legal case unfolds.

The Commissioner for Education, Dipo Eluwole, made this announcement through an official statement. The closure and account freeze signify the government's stance on the ongoing administrative discord and its commitment to resolving the matter comprehensively.

The Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, now stands at a crossroads, with a legal battle and government intervention looming large. The students and staff, caught in the midst of this crisis, can only hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to bring stability back to their educational institution.

Atiku Abubakar Vows to Pursue Supreme Court Challenge for Electoral Justice.

Atiku Abubakar Vows to Pursue Supreme Court Challenge for Electoral Justice.

The Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, a strong advocate for fair and credible elections, has announced his intention to challenge the recent judgement of the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal at the Supreme Court. The tribunal had affirmed the victory of President Bola Tinubu in the February 25, 2023, presidential election.

Speaking at a world press conference held at the Peoples Democratic Party headquarters in Abuja, Atiku expressed his unwavering commitment to ensuring a transparent electoral process in Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of elections that truly reflect the will of the electorate, devoid of manipulations.

Atiku acknowledged the tribunal's decision but stated, "I refused to accept the judgement because I believe it is bereft of substantial justice." Despite his disagreement with the outcome, he maintained his faith in the judiciary, stating that the tribunal judgement would not diminish his confidence in the legal system.

He further declared, "Consequently, I have asked my lawyers to activate my constitutionally guaranteed rights of appeal to the higher court, which in this instance, is the Supreme Court of Nigeria."

Atiku, who came second in the presidential race, believes that his efforts to ensure credible elections in Nigeria will serve as a lasting legacy for future generations. He was joined by his Labour Party counterpart, Peter Obi, in rejecting the tribunal's decision.

The tribunal's verdict, delivered by Chairman Justice Haruna Tsammani and his fellow panel members, upheld Tinubu's electoral victory. Despite this setback, Atiku's determination to uphold the principles of democracy remains unwavering as he takes his case to the Supreme Court.

Governor Akeredolu Returns to Nigeria After Successful Medical Vacation.

Governor Akeredolu Returns to Nigeria After Successful Medical Vacation.

Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, has returned to Nigeria after a three-month medical vacation in Germany. The governor had traveled abroad for medical attention after falling ill, and his return marks a positive step toward his full recovery.

Reliable government sources have confirmed that Governor Akeredolu arrived at his residence in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Thursday. It has been reported that members of the state Executive Council and prominent party leaders have been instructed to meet with him at his Ibadan residence on Friday.

During this meeting, Governor Akeredolu is expected to receive briefings from his cabinet members, led by the acting governor, Lucky Ayedatiwa. Sources suggest that the governor will spend some time in Ibadan before fully resuming his work duties.

Governor Akeredolu originally began his medical leave in June, and it was extended based on medical advice and approved by the state House of Assembly. The public eagerly awaited news of his return, and a viral picture of him inside the airplane he boarded had surfaced online.

Furthermore, the First Lady, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, announced on her Facebook page that they were "Homebound," bringing further relief and joy to well-wishers.

A top government source has officially confirmed the governor's return and the upcoming meeting with his executive members in Ibadan. It is expected that Governor Akeredolu will formally inform the state House of Assembly before resuming his official duties, ensuring a smooth transition back to governance. This return marks a positive turn of events and brings hope for a renewed focus on the development and progress of Ondo State.

RUAYDI Appoints Olufemi Emmanuel as International and National Protocol/Liaison Officer.

RUAYDI Appoints Olufemi Emmanuel as International and National Protocol/Liaison Officer.

In Pic: Mr. Olufemi Emmanuel, Newly Appointed RUAYDI International and National Protocol/Liaison Officer.

In a significant development for the Rural And Urban Aid For Youth Development Initiatives (RUAYDI), the renowned International Non-Governmental Organization has announced the appointment of Mr. Olufemi Emmanuel as its International and National Protocol/Liaison Officer. This pivotal appointment comes with immediate effect and is poised to bolster RUAYDI's outreach and engagement on both the national and international fronts.

The news was officially disclosed in a statement released to the press by RUAYDI's Information Officer, Samuel Anali. The statement bore the signature of Femi Oyebode, Executive Coordinator of RUAYDI, who also holds the esteemed position of Africa Representative and Board Member of the United Nations Alliance of NGOs on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Vienna, Austria.

This appointment signifies RUAYDI's commitment to expanding its influence and fortifying its presence in the realms of national and international diplomacy, a move that aligns with its mission of youth development and crime prevention.

Mr. Olufemi Emmanuel, the newly appointed International and National Protocol/Liaison Officer, is entrusted with a range of vital responsibilities. His primary role will be to facilitate RUAYDI's engagements, both within and outside of Nigeria. This entails liaising with governments, non-governmental organizations, corporate entities, and academic institutions, all in accordance with the directives of RUAYDI's Board of Trustees.

Furthermore, Mr. Emmanuel is set to serve as a protocol officer for RUAYDI's Board of Trustees, management, and other members of the organization. His duties will extend not only within Nigeria but also encompass the African continent and international interactions, strengthening RUAYDI's global footprint.

The decision to appoint Mr. Olufemi Emmanuel was made in Abuja and garnered the full support of RUAYDI's stakeholders. It is closely tied to the organization's efforts to implement the Review Mechanism of the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, further emphasizing RUAYDI's dedication to combating organized crime on a global scale.

This appointment is poised to mark a new chapter in RUAYDI's journey, underscoring its commitment to empowering youth, promoting development, and fostering international collaboration in the fight against transnational crime. With Mr. Olufemi Emmanuel at the helm of international and national protocols, RUAYDI is set to embark on a promising path of growth and impact, both in Nigeria and on the global stage.

Dele Alake Secures Free Study For Mining Professionals From Australia State.

Dele Alake Secures Free Study For Mining Professionals From Australia State.

Nigerian professionals in the solid minerals sector will soon travel to Australia for more studies, thanks to a deal brokered by the Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr. Alake in Perth, Australia, on Wednesday.

Presenting the request to Hon. Bill Johnston, the Minister for Mines and Petroleum, Energy, Corrective Services and Industrial Relations of the government of Western Australia, on a courtesy visit, Alake acknowledged the progress achieved by the government in mineral development.

Alake, who led the Nigerian delegation to the 21st Africa Down Under Mining Conference held in Perth, said Australia had acquired a lot of knowledge and skills in developing its modern mining industry, adding that Nigerians will benefit from training, study trips and exchanges of mineral professionals in its current effort to transform the sector.

Alake said the government had launched a roadmap to attract foreign direct investment by investing in big data on minerals and the quantum of their deposits, forming a solid minerals corporation and joint venture agreements with multinationals in mining to enable the sector to compete globally.

He informed the minister that Nigeria has vast deposits of precious minerals, including lithium, gold, coal, lead, zinc, baryte and iron ore.

Alake proposed a programme enabling Nigerian mining professionals to study modern mining technology and practices in Western Australia with the government's support.

Responding, Hon.Johnston appreciated the courtesy visit of the Minister of Solid Minerals and his delegation remarked that the meeting would pave the way for cordial relations.

Accepting the proposal, Hon Johnston said the government of Western Australia would support the transfer of knowledge and skills to mining professionals from Nigeria and sponsor mining experts to visit Nigeria to impart knowledge.

He urged the minister to make a formal request as soon as possible so both could work together to realise the goal.

He promised to mobilise the public and private sectors to support the initiative, as many companies are willing to explore opportunities for developing the mining sector in Africa.

Other members of the delegation were the Nigerian High Commissioner to Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific, Ambassador Anderson Madubike, Deputy High Commissioner, Mrs. Mercy Clement, Mr.Martins Imonitie, Investment Banker from  ANZ Bank, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Solid Minerals, Dr.Mary Ogbe, Special Adviser to the Minister, Hon.Kehinde Bamigbetan, Director, Mining Cadastral Office, Engr.Nkom Obadiah and Technical Assistant to the Minister, Mrs.Chinemerem Nwaka.

Alaba Balogun 

Deputy Director Information 

Ministry of Solid Minerals 

September 7, 2023

#SolidMineralsRoadMap

Oyebanji Eulogises AD Ex-Leader, Akosile, Describes Him a Honest Ekiti Patriot.

Oyebanji Eulogises AD Ex-Leader, Akosile, Describes Him a Honest Ekiti Patriot.

The Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has lauded the former State Chairman of the defunct Alliance for Democracy, Chief George Akosile, branding him as a committed and patriotic Ekiti man, who fought for the liberation and development of the state.

  

Akosile, a retired Permanent Secretary and respectable politician, died on 15th June, 2023 during a brief illness at his Igbara-Odo Ekiti countryhome. 

Speaking in Ado Ekiti, on Wednesday, at The Commendation Service held in Akosile's honour, Oyebanji described the deceased  as a man of dream and passion for the state, who prioritised Ekiti's development as the Chairman of AD at the advent of democracy in 1999.

Oyebanji, represented by his Deputy, Chief Mrs Monisade Afuye, stated that Akosile had a flourishing and impeccable records as a career Civil Servant  in the Old Ondo State, where he rose meteorically to the pinnacle of his career as a Permanent Secretary that superintended over pivotal Ministries.

From the political turf, the Governor added that Akosile as the Chairman of AD  provided the much needed leadership, which attracted heavyweight politicians  and the masses into the party, which eventually led to its success in the 1999 gubernatorial election.

"Chief Akosile was a great leader par excellence. He served as a Special Adviser to former Governor Kayode Fayemi between 2010 and 2012 in the State and was known to be a man of humility, honesty and transparency. 

"He was one of the foot-soldiers that fought  relentlessly alongside other leaders to bring the state back to the progressive fold in 2010 after a long battle in various hierarchies of courts.

"The people of Ekiti State will miss his passion for the development of Ekiti in all facets and how he dedicated himself as a dependable ally in the project Ekiti. May his soul rest in the bosom of the lord".

Speaking while delivering his sermon at the commendation   service, a cleric, Ven. Bode Otenaike, tasked the government to contrive ways of investing in the lives of the citizens to reduce the cankerworm of poverty in line with Akosile's and other progressive leaders'  vision for the state.

Quoting from the book of Luke Chapter 19 verse 13, Otenaike stated that based on the political belief and trajectory of the deceased, that making Ekiti a state of prosperity was what he stood for, saying the current government must embrace this and work towards  its realisation. 

Akosile, who was the Asiwaju of Igbara-Odo Ekiti, was appointed Chairman of the Political Appointment Committee by  Governor  Oyebanji in March 2023.

The committee was saddled with the responsibility to work for the nominations across all the 16 local government of qualified men and women as commissioners and Special Advisers into the cabinet.

He was also the Chairman of the APC Elders' Forum from 2009 till he breathed his last  on June 15, 2023.

OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES TINUBU, NIGERIANS ON PRESIDENTIAL TRIBUNAL VICTORY.

OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES TINUBU, NIGERIANS ON PRESIDENTIAL TRIBUNAL VICTORY.

....Says Judicial Affirmation Confirms Nigerians' Choice.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his victory at the Presidential Election Petition Court which upheld his February 25 election.

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the judgement as “solid and detailed” and “a judicial sustenance of the mandate given to the clear winner of the presidential poll”.

The Governor also hailed the judiciary for upholding the truth, stressing that the judicial affirmation of President Tinubu's election has confirmed the choice of the majority of Nigerians who elected the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential flag bearer as President of the country.

He said the Tribunal verdict has laid every doubt on the validity and authenticity of the presidential result declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to rest and served as a proof that democracy and the rule of law are becoming firmly rooted in Nigeria.

According to the Governor, the latest judicial seal on Tinubu's legitimacy would make Nigeria command more respect in the comity of nations as a beacon of hope for democracy in Africa and a model to other countries of the world.

Oyebanji, who sat through the period of the judgement on Wednesday in Abuja, hailed the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal for patiently and painstakingly looking into evidence provided by parties to the suit, before arriving at the verdict. He said the painstaking handling of the matter by the tribunal has further enhanced election dispute jurisprudence in the country.

He praised the judges for their hard work, industry, perseverance and for acting as impartial arbiters who only arrived at their final decision based on the quantum of evidence before them and did justice to the petitions before them.

Oyebanji said: “I congratulate our President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and indeed all Nigerians for this judgement. It is not victory for the APC alone it is a victory for democracy, the rule of law and for the Nigerian masses. It is also a vote of confidence in the process that led to the election of Mr President.

“The judgement is solid and well detailed. There is nothing to add. I congratulate Nigerians and the President, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed  Tinubu”.

Governor Oyebanji urged Nigerians to rally support for the President to succeed in the onerous task of leading the country to economic prosperity. 

“We have a President that is committed to the development of this country and he needs all hands on deck to ensure that we get to the promise land.”

The Ekiti helmsman appealed to the opposition parties and their presidential candidates who lost at the Presidential Election Tribunal to join hands with Tinubu to move Nigeria forward, urging them to be ready to offer useful counsel that would smoothen the nation's journey to the glorious harbour of development.

“The Government and good people of Ekiti State congratulate the President on this victory and wish him success in his efforts at leading the country and her people to the path of greatness.”, the statement added.