NURTW, Methodist Church, MATO'S Group, Others Visit Gov Aiyedatiwa, Pledge Support.

NURTW, Methodist Church, MATO'S Group, Others Visit Gov Aiyedatiwa, Pledge Support. 

The national leaders of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) at the weekend paid a visit to the Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, pledging their support for his administration. 

Led by its Acting National President, Aliyu Issa Ore and Acting National Secretary, Kayode S.A Agbeyangi, the union said the visit was to condole with the Governor over the death of his predecessor and to declare support for his administration.

The union, while thanking the Governor for the way he has managed the issue of motor parks and drivers in the State, informed of its decision to make the Governor a Patron of the union.

Responding, Governor Aiyedatiwa thanked the national officers of the union for the visit and their support, saying he has been impressed by the move to restore peace and unity into the NURTW nationwide. 

The Governor expressed his readiness to ensure that there is no leadership tussle in any union that can lead to breakdown of law and order in Ondo State.

Also among the visitors to the Governor at the Presidential Lodge of the Government House in Akure was a political group led by a former APC senatorial aspirant in Ondo South, Mr. Mathew Oyerinmade, popularly called MATO.

Oyerinmade was accompanied by members of his group, including Dr. Rotimi Wilson, Hon Segun Odidi, Mr. Nelson Omoyoloye, Surv. Niran Akinniyi and Mr. Kunle Oyegoke.

Oyerinmade, who congratulated Aiyedatiwa on his inauguration as Governor, commended the steps so far taken by the Governor towards the development of the State. 

The group, which also condoled with the Governor on the death of his predecessor, pledged its support for the new administration in the State.

Governor Aiyedatiwa thanked the group for the visit, commending the activities of Oyerinmade in galvanising grassroots participation in politics and governance in the State. 

Also, a delegation of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, led by its Prelate, His Eminence, Dr. Oliver Ali Abah, visited the Governor and offered prayers for the success of his administration. 

Armed Forces Remembrance Day: NASS will support Tinubu to end insurgency, insecurity.

Armed Forces Remembrance Day: NASS will support Tinubu to end insurgency, insecurity.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Sunday, January 14, reiterated the readiness of the National Assembly to join hands with President Bola Tinubu in finding lasting solutions to all issues of insurgency, insecurity, banditry, and all forms of criminality bedeviling the country.

Akpabio also called on the Church to partner with the President to rebrand the country.

He chided the Governor of Anambra state, Chukwuma Soludo for describing Nigeria as a dead horse standing.

He told the governor that Anambra state may be the horse he described because Nigeria is a “horse that is bouncing, and ready to gallop and go to work.”

The Senate president made these remarks at the Interdenominational Church Service for the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Celebration held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, on Sunday.

Akpabio said: “I must say, yes indeed, I’m not supposed to make comments on the liturgy (homily) that was rendered today by our dear Bishop, Bishop Muyiwa because of course, standing on the podium of God, he ought to, and he was speaking from the words that were put into his mouth. But when he was speaking, he said that the military actually, in the past, not the present military, caused a lot of problems in the country.

“I don’t want to correct it, but I just want to amend it that yes, indeed, the military have continued to save Nigeria to the best of their abilities.

“They did not cause the problem that we are finding today. I said a few days ago that in 1959 when the then Governor General was handing over to Nigeria, when we had independence on 1st October, in his address, he said one of the greatest problems of Nigeria was what? Corruption! Which means that corruption existed before Nigeria was born and so the government will continue to fight corruption.

“Therefore, I want to thank the Bishop for recognizing the efforts of the president in strenuously trying to bury this menace called corruption. I also want to thank the Bishop for all the accolades he has put on the steps so far taken by the President to reposition Nigeria.

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a step and the rot that we are seeing in Nigeria today started right from independence and it got us to where we are.

“It did not start with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. But I said America took 185 years before they could produce a member of parliament as president and another member of parliament as Vice President.

“I think that was President Kennedy and Vice President Lyndon Johnson. But in Nigeria, less than 30 years, we have a president as a senator and we also have a vice president as a senator.

“This means that they know the problems of the grassroots and they are determined to solve that problem.

“I stand before you as part of you to say that I will join this president, not just to reform Nigeria, but to ensure that all the complaints and all the issues bordering on insurgency are addressed.

“We don’t have enough men and women in uniform. We are determined to give them the resources to ensure that they bring more people into the Armed Forces to secure Nigeria.

“We have started with the budgetary processes and I’m sure the leaders, the heads of all the agencies can attest to the fact that this government is very determined to provide everything that the Armed Forces need to bring total peace to this country. And for this, I applaud President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He further stated: “Also let me make mention of a sitting governor, I think it is Governor (Chukwuma) Soludo who described Nigeria as a dead horse still standing. I don’t know whether he’s talking about Anambra State because he’s the governor of Anambra State and so if he’s a governor, and Anambra State is a dead horse standing, it is not Nigeria. Nigeria is a horse that is bouncing, and ready to gallop and go to work. And he will go for work in Jesus’ name. But I want to thank him for the recollection yesterday that security is everybody’s business. If you don’t give enough intelligence to the men in uniform, there is nothing they can do. So everybody must get ready to get involved in security. Of course, communal clashes, such as the ones you are seeing in Jos of them date back to ages.

“Before Najida was born, people have been fighting, even in my area, people are fighting for land and when they are fighting, we must pray. We can only succeed through prayers. Yes, that’s the reason why I want to end what I’m saying, by just referring to what you already know in the Bible yes, unless the Lord watches over the city and over the nation, the watchmen do what? Struggle in vain. May God watch over Nigeria and Jesus name.”

Earlier in his speech, Akpabio said that the President Tinubu-led government at the centre, is focused on ensuring that Nigeria remains an inseparable and indivisible entity.

The Senate President who held that the continued existence of the country lies in its rich cultural, religious and ethnic diversity, called on the people to embrace unity, stressing the resolve of the present administration to redouble its efforts in securing the country.

The number one lawmaker, paid glowing tributes to members of the armed forces who fell in the quest to make Nigeria remain one, stressing that their labour would never be in vain.

Akpabio also asked the Christendom and other stakeholders in the Nigerian project to join hands with the Tinubu government as well as the nation’s Armed Forces to tackle the issues that have threatened the co-existence of the country.

He said: “The unity of Nigeria came at a great price. The sustenance and defence of this unity rests on the shoulders of the men and women of the Armed Forces, and the true weight of loss is carried by the families and dependents of these fallen heroes. If only we could share the pain they feel, then we would truly understand the imperative of eschewing insecurity and violence in all its forms.

“The year 2023 was an eventful one, marked by general elections and a change in leadership. Our nation is still grappling with the effects of long-overdue multisectoral reforms needed to propel us forward and position Nigeria among the great nations of the world. I urge support to the government of His Excellency President Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, during this crucial time as we strive to achieve the Nigeria of our dreams. In this regard, I reiterate the President’s assurance that ‘our tough times will not last,’ and we should renew our hope in a great Nigeria.

“Now is the time for all stakeholders to set aside our differences, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or political affiliations, and come together to strategise on the way forward for this great nation that our gallant men and women of the Armed Forces paid, and continue to pay, the ultimate price to preserve. It is also a time for sober reflection, to take stock of past events such as the civil war, and to reflect on current challenges like the war on insurgency, incessant attacks on innocent Nigerians, and the spate of kidnappings across the country. We must reflect on their causes and work together to prevent future occurrences.”

According to Akpabio: “I call upon the church to partner with the government in a much-needed rebranding of Nigeria. The church is urged to continue spreading the gospel of love for oneself, others, and our country. We must blur the lines that divide us across ethnic and religious boundaries through messages of tolerance, peace, unity, and progress.

“This administration is more determined than ever to strengthen and promote the oneness and indivisibility of Nigeria because the strength of our great nation lies in our diversity.

“Once again, let us salute the courage and appreciate the sacrifices of our men and women of the Armed Forces. Let us stand in solidarity with the families of our fallen heroes and heroines. I assure you that the government will continue to evolve policies to address the challenges you face as a result of your loss.

“The inclusion of veterans, their dependents, and caregivers into the Social Welfare Register through the Ministry of Defence is a commendable initiative of the current administration. The President, Commander-in-Chief of our Armed Forces is committed to implementing welfare programmes within the services for the families of deceased personnel while making continuous efforts to address any remaining gaps.”

Tinubu deserves support from all Nigerians, says Metuh.

Tinubu deserves support from all Nigerians, says Metuh.

Olisa Metuh, the former national publicity secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has called on Nigerians from all walks of life to rally behind President Bola Tinubu‘s administration.

He underscored the positive steps taken by Tinubu’s administration, indicating its commitment to the right direction.

In a statement personally signed and shared with journalists in Abuja on Sunday, January 14, Metuh asserted that President Tinubu, in his seven months of leadership, has demonstrated proactive leadership and respect for the sentiments and sensibilities of Nigerians.

Comparing the present administration with its predecessor, the former PDP spokesman highlighted that President Tinubu has appropriately reoriented governance and its operational methods.

He pointed out that under the president’s leadership, the fight against corruption has regained its effectiveness and is not merely wielded as a tool against perceived adversaries.

However, he urged citizens to wholeheartedly support the President, emphasizing that such support would signify everyone’s contribution to realizing the desired Nigeria, describing the country as a work in progress.

He said: “In the last seven months, under the new administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, there is renewed confidence in the Nigerian project, especially in observing best democratic practices. This government definitely appears to have regard for the liberty and freedom of individuals as well as for transparency and accountability.

“The most reassuring step is the genuine, determined and uncompromising fight against corruption and financial crimes in the country, different and distinct from a fight targeted at opposition figures whilst protecting and sparing those on the corridors of powers.

“Today, we see serving ministers and people who are holding top offices being removed from office and investigated for prosecution over corruption and financial crimes.

“In the past, the fight against corruption was merely a political cum campaign tool fueled with massive media trials and only targeted at diminishing opposition shining talents. The fight against corruption is now distinctive to persons who have questions to answer and not a tool for persecution.

“More importantly, there is no more demarketing of Nigerians and Nigeria as a nation by those who tagged our hardworking youth as lazy and tarred innocent and resourceful Nigerians on the international arena with the brush of corruption.

“Nigerians across the board, have applauded the unprecedented patriotic stand for good governance in cutting the cost of governance at the federal level reflected in the recent slashing of all official entourage to state and international events by 60 percent.

“President Tinubu has demonstrated proactive leadership; a listening and approachable leadership that respects the sensibilities of Nigerians as well as the need to re-engineer our nation for greater multi-sectoral productivity.

“This uncommon patriotism requires the recognition and support of all well-meaning Nigerians within the public, private, and civil society sectors, irrespective of political, ethnic, religious, or vocational affiliations.

“From that standpoint, I call on all Nigerians to set aside every sectional, political, and religious sentiment and put the national interest first by supporting President Tinubu bearing in mind that his success is the nation’s success today and for generations yet unborn.

“Nigeria’s future is much better served by contributions, inputs, and constructive criticisms as obligations and duties of responsible citizens in every participatory democracy.

“Finally, it is evident that there is a sure and steady move to where we want to be as a nation. This government indeed, is reflective of a good work in progress. May God perfect our prayers for a great nation.”

Bisi Akande, a living legend, says Oyebanji.

Bisi Akande, a living legend, says Oyebanji.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has described a former Governor of Osun State and frontline leader of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande as a living legend who has contributed immensely to nation building through his sound democratic ideas. 

Governor Oyebanji, who stated this on Sunday during the pre- birthday lecture and inter-faith thanksgiving and prayers organized to commemorate Chief Akande’s 85th birthday at his residence in Ila Orangun, Osun State, said the former Governor is a true democrat and a living example of a true leader whose virtues of accountability, transparency, and selfless service are worthy of emulation.

Expressing his admiration for Chief Akande’s exceptional qualities,  Governor Oyebanji who was the Special Guest of Honour at the events, said Baba Akande is not only a great man but also a great mind whose extensive contributions to Nigerian politics and steadfast dedication to the principles of nationalism has made him a beacon of inspiration for many leaders and aspiring leaders.

He described Akande as one the great political leaders who worked tirelessly to ensure the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as President of the country. 

While thanking the former Osun State Governor for the continued guidance and mentorship he provides, Governor Oyebanji commended his remarkable depth of knowledge on various issues, spanning government, economy, international affairs, among others. 

“We are here to celebrate a great man, a great mind, a nationalist and a truly Awoist that is still living. Thank you for your generosity of spirit, thank you for living a selfless life and for staying connected to your root, Ila Orogun” the Governor said”.

Thousands of Chief Akande’s followers and admirers, including children and youths thronged the Ila Orangun residence for the pre- birthday events. 

Governor Oyebanji was accompanied on the visit by the Ekiti State Chairman of APC, Barrister Paul Omotoso; Chairman, Local Service Commission, Chief Alaba Abejide; Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Otunba Kayode Fasae and Special Adviser Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode.

Nigerian War Veterans Deserve Nigerians' Respect, Honour, Says Oyebanji.

Nigerian War Veterans Deserve Nigerians'  Respect, Honour, Says Oyebanji.

 .....Urges citizens to preserve patriotic, sacrificial spirits of fallen heroes.

The Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has declared that the Nigerian war veterans who lost their lives in the battles to keep Nigeria together deserve honour and respect from governments and all citizens for protecting the country's national and territorial integrity.

Oyebanji said the fact that these fallen heroes fought during the civil war and still confronting other sectarian battles to keep the nation together, were suffice for the citizens to give their families enormous support and respect. 

In the midst of the multifaceted insecurity bedlams pummeling the nation, the governor reiterated his commitment to prioritize the security of lives and prosperity of Ekiti citizens by making the state a no-go-area for criminals through lofty support for security agencies.

Governor Oyebanji said these on Sunday , during a thanksgiving service  commemorating the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, held at the   Government House Chapel in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.

Oyebanji, represented by his Special Adviser on Security Matters, Brigadier Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (Rtd), praised the legionnaires for their sacrifices for the nation, saying efforts must be intensified for their services not to result to nought.

He appealed to the public to support them and their families considering their level of commitment to promoting security of the nation, regardless of the risks involved.

He said : "Armed Forces Remembrance Day was put in place to celebrate the meritorious service of the retired soldiers and the fallen heroes who fought for the peace and unity of Nigeria.

"Looking at these sacrifices, they deserve a lot of praises from the people. The public must support the families they left behind likewise the legacy of patriotism, love and unity they fought to protect our dear nation.

"Let me also  reaffirm the commitment of the present administration to prioritise security matters in the state, because welfare and security of the citizens are the two main cardinal objectives of any government and we will keep to these".

In his sermon at the event, the Chaplain, Ekiti State Government House, Pastor Segun Awolumate, called on all levels of government to improve the welfare of legionnaires, so that they can live fruitful and  worthy lives after  retirements.

The Cleric  posited that adequate reward for the war veterans remained  the most important signal that can be sent to the upcoming soldiers to be able to show patriotism in service.

Pastor Awolumate encouraged the soldiers not to be disillusioned by the goings in the country to actualise the dream of making Nigeria  overcome the challenges of insecurity, assuring that God would reward their sincerity and dedication to duties.

Present at the event were: The Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Commissioner of Police, Mr. Dare Ogundare, representatives of the  Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigerian Correctional Service, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Department of State Services, members of the State Executive Council, Local Government chairmen, clergymen, among others.

Interior Minister, Tunji-Ojo Assures On Safety Of School Children.

Interior Minister, Tunji-Ojo Assures On Safety Of School Children.

The Minister of Interior, Hon Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has assured adequate security for school children in both urban and rural areas in the country.

The Minister gave the assurance during the graduation ceremony of the National Safe Schools Response Coordination Course, undertaken by over 200 personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps at the Defence Intelligence College in Karu, Abuja.

The course is to enhance the competence of the selected officers.

Speaking at the ceremony, Tunji-Ojo expressed optimism that Nigeria would be great through the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

He said: “The most critical asset that a country can boast of are the children of the nation. Because with them lies the future, so safe keeping and securing our schools is obviously securing the future of Nigeria.

“It’s not about securing our children in the urban areas, we will not rest until our children even in the most remote areas of this country are secured.

“Every inch of this country, by the grace of God, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will be secured. A child in Damboa will have the confidence to go to school, as a child in Abuja. That is the target, that is the aim.

“This is how important it is to this government and as Minister of Interior with the express permission of Mr. President, this is a task that would not just be seen to have been done, but a task that will actually be done.

“Nigeria must be great, Nigeria must be protected and Nigerians, once again must be able to smile, knowing fully well that there is a government of renewed hope that does not just care about them but a government that is ready to sacrifice everything for the purpose of their security and safety.”

Governor Oyebanji Honors Chief Bisi Akande at 85th Birthday Celebration.

Governor Oyebanji Honors Chief Bisi Akande at 85th Birthday Celebration.

By Olamide Akinwumi J. 

In a remarkable display of unity and reverence, Governor Biodun Oyebanji served as the Special Guest of Honour at the Inter-Faith Prayers, Thanksgiving, and Pre-birthday lecture organized to commemorate the 85th birthday of former Osun State Governor and prominent leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), His Excellency, Chief Bisi Akande. The celebratory event took place at Chief Akande's Ila-Orangun country home, drawing esteemed personalities from various walks of life.

Accompanying Governor Oyebanji were notable figures including the state chairman of APC, Barr Paul Omotoso; Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Chief Alaba Abejide; Commissioner for Wealth Creation, Otunba Kayode Fasae, and Special Adviser, Media, Yinka Oyebode. Their collective presence underscored the significance of Chief Akande's contributions to both the party and the development of Osun State.

During the event, Governor Oyebanji conveyed warm greetings from his fellow Governors to the celebrant, affectionately known as Baba Omo Keekeke by his multitude of admirers. The atmosphere resonated with gratitude and celebration as attendees joined in expressing their respect and admiration for Chief Akande's unwavering commitment to public service and the APC.

The Inter-Faith Prayers, a central part of the commemorative event, symbolized the diverse and inclusive nature of Chief Akande's influence, bringing together individuals from different religious backgrounds to offer thanks and blessings. This inclusive approach mirrors Chief Akande's legacy as a unifying figure within the APC.

The Pre-birthday lecture, a thoughtful addition to the festivities, provided a platform for reflection on Chief Akande's achievements and the enduring impact of his leadership. It showcased the intellectual depth and foresight that have characterized his political career, inspiring both the younger generation and contemporaries.

As Chief Bisi Akande stands at the threshold of his 85th year, the Inter-Faith Prayers, Thanksgiving, and Pre-birthday lecture not only celebrated the man but also served as a testament to the unity and strength within the APC. Governor Biodun Oyebanji's presence and conveyance of greetings from his colleagues underscored the respect and camaraderie that exist among APC leaders.

The event, marked by its significance and the distinguished personalities in attendance, will undoubtedly be etched in the annals of political and social history as a moment of shared celebration and reflection on the enduring legacy of Chief Bisi Akande.