TheNewsGuru

Tag: Oyo State

  • APC cautions Oyo govt, raises concerns over debt portfolio

    APC cautions Oyo govt, raises concerns over debt portfolio

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has expressed concerns over alleged plans by Gov. Seyi Makinde to obtain a fresh loan of N300 billion loan.

    A report on Wednesday said that the State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Hon. Debo Ogundoyin, reconvened during recess on Aug. 16 and Aug. 26 to consider the loan request

    In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare and made available to newsmen on Thursday in Ibadan, the APC said that the development raised questions about transparency and due process in governance.

    The APC warned that continuous borrowing may affect the state’s economy and the welfare of its citizens if not carefully managed.

    It alleged that the decision was made without the involvement of its four lawmakers in the chamber, who were not fully briefed before approval was given.

    Sadare said that the party might mobilise residents to embark on a peaceful protest if what it described as “unabated borrowing” continues without clear justification.

    The party said that the latest loan was the third in 2025 alone, following earlier borrowing of N200 billion in March and N110 billion in July.

    The APC compared Oyo with Imo State, where Gov. Hope Uzodimma recently increased workers’ minimum wage to N104,000, citing better financial management.

    It wondered why, despite significant resources, Oyo citizens had not seen direct improvements in their daily lives since 2019.

    The APC further cautioned the Assembly leadership to act responsibly, stressing that excessive debt could burden citizens before and beyond May 2027.

    It urged residents to remain calm, assuring that it would continue to raise issues affecting governance in the overall interest of the state.

  • BREAKING: Gov Makinde hands over power to Deputy

    BREAKING: Gov Makinde hands over power to Deputy

    Governor Seyi Makinde has notified the Oyo State House of Assembly of his intention to proceed on a month-long vacation from August 29 to September 29.

    This is contained in a letter he wrote, which was received and acknowledged by the State House of Assembly.

    The letter was read at an emergency plenary session presided over by the Speaker, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin, on Tuesday.

    According to Ogundoyin, the letter is in compliance with section 190(1) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which mandates the governor to transmit a written notice to the House before proceeding on leave.

    In the letter, Makinde conveyed his request to proceed on vacation and to formally hand over the responsibilities of his office to his deputy, Mr Bayo Lawal, who will serve as acting governor throughout the vacation period.

    “I hereby transmit that during the period indicated above, the deputy governor, Barrister Bayo Lawal, shall serve as acting governor.

    “I shall resume duty upon my return from vacation on Monday, Sept. 29,” Makinde informed the legislative.

    Ogundoyin, who acknowledged the letter, assured of the legislatives’ support to Lawal during the governor’s absence.

    He reaffirmed that the House remains committed to constitutional order and the continuity of governance in the state.

    With the governor’s formal notification and the assembly’s approval, Lawal is expected to assume full responsibilities of the office from August 29 until Makinde resumes on September 29.

    Recall that the legislators had earlier commenced their recess on August 3, and are expected to resume plenary on September 16.

  • Oyo govt opens up on reported closure of Bola Ige Market

    Oyo govt opens up on reported closure of Bola Ige Market

    The Oyo State Government has debunked rumours that the Bola Ige Market, Gbagi, Ibadan, would be closed on Monday.

    A statement issued on Sunday in Ibadan by the Commissioner for Investment, Trade, Cooperatives and Industry, Mr Adeniyi Adebisi, described the report as unfounded.

    Adebisi assured traders, shop owners, and members of the public that the market would remain open, dismissing the speculation as the handiwork of mischief-makers.

    He described the rumours as false, baseless, and a deliberate attempt to cause unnecessary tension within the business community.

    The commissioner stressed that the Bola Ige Market remained a major hub of commercial activities in the state, adding that government had no plans to shut it down.

    “We urge traders and the public to disregard this misleading information being spread by unscrupulous elements whose aim is to disrupt peace and normal business operations.

    “So normal activities will continue without any hindrance on Monday and beyond,” he said.

    The Commissioner further appealed to the public to ignore false information and rely solely on official statements from relevant authorities.

  • By-election: Candidates sign peace accord in Oyo

    By-election: Candidates sign peace accord in Oyo

    Candidates in the August 16 Ibadan North Federal Constituency by-election in Oyo State, on Wednesday, signed an agreement to ensure a peaceful, free, fair and transparent election.

    The agreement was signed at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) State Headquarters in Ibadan, and witnessed by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Oyo State, Dr Adeniran Tella and the Commissioner of Police, Mr Femi Aruna.

    Other stakeholders in attendance were representatives of the Nigeria Army, National Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Department of State Security (DSS), NDLEA and NOA.

    In his remarks, Tella said the essence of the peace accord was to foster a conducive environment for voters to exercise their rights, “ultimately contributing to the legitimacy and credibility of the electoral process”.

    He said that INEC had constant engagements with the members of Inter Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), which has the Commissioner of Police in the state as the lead security agency, on the peace accord.

    The REC said that candidates from five political parties contesting in the by- election signed the peace accord.

    The candidates are Akin Alamu – African Democratic Party (ADC); Haastrup Olatunji – All Progressive Congress (APC); Olabisi Odususi – All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA); Sunday Oyekunle – Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Hammed Badmus – Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

    He urged the five political parties and their candidates to adhere to the peace accord signed, admonishing that there shouldn’t be any form of voters’ intimidation on election day.

    Speaking further, Tella made it known that all the non- sensitive materials for the forthcoming by-election have been received and deployed to the concerned local government area.

    He said that the by-election would hold in 512 polling units with 272,196 registered voters expected to participate in the exercise.

    The REC added that the commission had configured a total of 526 Bimodal Verification Accreditation System (BVAS) machines with additional 48 back-up BVAS machines for the by-election.

    He emphasised that the use of technology would be deployed through the use of BVAS machines “and INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) for uploading of results on election day.”

    The candidates of the APC and PDP, Olatunji and Oyekunle respectively pledged to abide with the peace accord.

    Olatunji commended INEC and security agencies for their preparations towards ensuring peaceful conduct of the Aug 16 election. Oyekunle urged INEC to conduct free, fair and transparent by-election.

  • Police promote 159 officers to ASP rank in Oyo State

    Police promote 159 officers to ASP rank in Oyo State

    The Police Command in Oyo State has promoted 159 Inspectors to the rank of an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), in honour of their dedication to duty and exemplary performance.

    The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, CSP Adewale Osifeso disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen on Tuesday in Ibadan.

    Osifeso stated that the promotion underscored Inspector General of Police (I-G) Kayode Egbetokun’s commitment to recognising exceptional performance and dedication among officers.

    According to him, Oyo State Commissioner of Police (CP), Femi Haruna praised the officers’ remarkable courage, professional excellence, and dedication to duty during the decoration ceremony.

    The CP  highlighted the significance of an organised reward system within the police force, which aims to motivate officers to consistently pursue excellence in their service to the community.

    “The promotion you have received today signifies not only the recognition of your hard work and commitment but also serves as a reminder to uphold these values in your ongoing career as law enforcement officers,” the CP said.

    He urged them to continue to maintain the highest levels of professionalism and integrity as they take on their new roles.

    Osifeso said that the decorated officers thanked the Commissioner of Police for the recognition and reaffirmed their dedication to duty and upholding the force’s principles.

    According to him, the command remains resolute in its commitment to promoting professionalism, rewarding exemplary performance, and celebrating the accomplishments of its personnel.

    He said that, doing so would enhance public trust and safety within the community.

    Some of the officers promoted include ASP Eriarehmhien Ayishat, ASP Coker Bunmi, and ASP Tina Osuoza.

  • Oyo govt denies fake pension verification notice

    Oyo govt denies fake pension verification notice

    The Oyo State Government has denied a notice currently circulating among pensioners concerning a supposed verification exercise.

    This is contained in a statement in Ibadan on Friday by the Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Prof. Salihu Adelabu.

    Adelabu described as fake any message requesting pensioners to submit photocopies of their pension certificates, account details, and phone numbers to the ministry.

    He urged pensioners to ignore such messages and remain vigilant against misinformation targeting retirees.

    He emphasised that the ministry would contact eligible individuals only when it is their turn to receive their benefits.

    The Commissioner added that all official information is communicated solely through recognised and credible channels.

    Adelabu advised pensioners to verify any suspicious message before acting, and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to retirees’ welfare.

    He said the government would continue to uphold transparency and due process in pension and gratuity matters.

    He also called on the public to share only verified information, saying protecting pensioners from fraud is a shared duty.

  • Oyo: No new projects award from September – Gov Makinde

    Oyo: No new projects award from September – Gov Makinde

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has disclosed that his administration will not initiate or award new projects as from September.

    Makinde stated this on Tuesday at a luncheon to commemorate the Hijrah 1447 held at the Government House, Agodi, Ibadan.

    The Governor said he would rather commit to completing all ongoing projects before the expiration of his tenure in 2027.

    “By the end of September this year, in the next eight weeks; this government will not commit to any major projects again.

    “Whatever projects we have already committed to, we will see them through, because we do not want to leave any uncompleted or abandoned projects by the time we are leaving in the next 22 months,” he said.

    The Governor also made it known that he had awarded the contract for the reconstruction of Okaka- Igbojaye Road, in Itesiwaju Local Government Area of the state.

    The road awarded leads to the Kunle Afolayan Film Production Village in Igbojaye, he said.

    Makinde assured the people of Okaka- and Igbojaye that the road would be completed before the end of his tenure

    The governor, who underscored the significance and values of Hijrah, encouraged citizens to continue upholding virtues such as self-discipline, perseverance, tolerance, and good deeds.

    He appreciated the Muslim community in the state for their prayers and support, which, according to him, had enhanced peace and progress in the state.

    The Governor further implored religious and community leaders to continue offering their advice and guidance to his administration until its final day in office.

  • How APC can reclaim Oyo in 2027 – Ex-Diaspora chairman

    How APC can reclaim Oyo in 2027 – Ex-Diaspora chairman

    Mr Bola Babarinde, former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress(APC) in South Africa, says for the party to reclaim Oyo State in 2027, it must think beyond convention in flag bearer’s selection.

    Babarinde, in a statement on Wednesday in Lagos, said that a governorship candidate that is strategic, inspirational, and totally devoted to the state’s transformation must be considered by APC.

    “Someone who embodies innovation, integrity, and international relevance,” Babarinde said.

    The APC chieftain said that the recent declaration by some aspirants from APC for the governorship position in the state raises significant questions, not just about timing, but about capacity, legacy, and the future direction of the state.

    Babarinde, who hails from Oyo State, said though in politics, “timing is everything, ambition is a right, but execution is a matter of wisdom, strategy and context.”

    Describing Oyo State as a sleeping giant that must wake, Babarinde said that state remained the cradle of Yoruba civilisation, leading Nigeria in education, health, culture and innovation.

    “It was a beacon of excellence and pride. Sadly, over the years, that flame has dimmed.

    “Lagos, once a junior sibling, has now taken the mantle of leadership, while Oyo struggles under the weight of under-performing leadership,” he said.

    According to him, the late former Gov. Abiola Ajimobi made commendable efforts to restore dignity and development.

    He said that Gov. Seyi Makinde, though applauded for certain initiatives, had not measured up to the transformational standard expected from a state with Oyo’s pedigree.

    The APC chieftain noted that the state has not done well in agricultural revolution, educational, sports, infrastructures, science, technology, research and innovation.

    “We need a rebirth, not recycled slogans, not familiar faces without footprint.

    “The political terrain has shifted. Oyo citizens are more enlightened, more impatient, and more desirous of a game-changer, not just a participant.

    “This is not the time for nostalgia or entitlement politics. It is not about who tried before or who deserves a second chance.

    “This is about who can deliver now, who has the vision, the energy, and the courage to disrupt the status quo and challenge the mediocrity that has held Oyo down for decades,” he stated.

    Calling for redirection in the next governorship race in Oyo State, Babarinde said the election should be an opportunity to redefine the state’s destiny.

    He said: “Let us not waste it on sentiments or second chances.

    “Otherwise let us source a candidate who can think globally, act locally, and lead boldly.

    “A visionary who can place Oyo on the map of scientific and technological excellence, revamp its agricultural capacity, ignite its tourism industry, and reengineer its educational system.”

  • Oyo govt reaffirms ban on use of special eye glasses for exams

    Oyo govt reaffirms ban on use of special eye glasses for exams

    As examination malpractice peddlers make quick gains using various online platforms, the Oyo State government has reaffirmed its ban on mobile phones, smart watches, including Meta eyeglasses in schools.

    WhatsApp channels have become a veritable means of leaking examination questions in Nigeria, and particularly in Oyo State, the State government noted.

    The Oyo Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr Olusegun Olayiwola, reiterated the position of the state in ensuring credibility of examinations in a statement on Wednesday in Ibadan.

    Olayiwola said that there would be sanctions especially during examinations, warning that violators will face strict consequences

    While addressing education stakeholders including Permanent Secretaries, Inspectors General of Education (PS/IGEs), and Heads of Departments during a meeting, Olayiwola emphasised the importance of discipline and integrity in the conduct of examinations.

    The commissioner noted that an official circular already prohibits students from bringing mobile phones into school premises and examination venues.

    He urged school authorities to enforce this directive without exception.

    Olayiwola further stressed that the use of smart watches, meta eyeglasses, and other devices that could facilitate examination malpractice were also strictly prohibited.

    The commissioner called on teachers, parents, and guardians to monitor their wards closely and ensure compliance with these directives.

    “We must all work together to uphold the integrity of our education system and maintain discipline across our schools,” he stated.

  • Suspended Oyo LG chairman reinstated

    Suspended Oyo LG chairman reinstated

    The Oyo State House of Assembly on Tuesday reinstated the suspended Chairman of Saki East Local Government, Mr Emmanuel Adedokun.

    This followed a report by Mr Olajide Akintunde, Chairman, House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters.

    Olajide stated the committee engaged local government officers and political stakeholders to examine the petition and develop recommendations for the House.

    He said the committee acted on a House directive to investigate a petition titled: ‘Call for Urgent Intervention and Holistic Investigation.’

    The committee held meetings with the acting Chairman, Mr Rasaq Moruf, and the Leader of the House, Mr Wahab Adebayo.

    Others consulted included the Head of Local Government Administration, Mr Raji Abiola, Director of Finance and Administration, Mr Idowu, and the suspended chairman, Adedokun.

    The House directed the acting Chairman and Vice Chairman to resume their former roles as Vice Chairman and Council Leader, respectively.

    Recall that on March 18, the Assembly received a petition seeking urgent intervention in the affairs of Saki East under Adedokun’s leadership.

    The petition was referred to the House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters for thorough investigation and appropriate action.