Flowerbud News

Author: Wale Owoade

  • 2 Div. Nigerian Army offers free medical treatment to 700 beneficiaries

    2 Div. Nigerian Army offers free medical treatment to 700 beneficiaries

    2 Div. Nigerian Army offers free medical treatment to 700 beneficiaries
    By Suleiman Shehu
    The 2 Division, Nigerian Army , Ibadan, has offered free medical services to 700 residents in Ojoo community, Akinyele Local Government Area in Ibadan.
    The services rendered to the beneficiaries included free medical consultation and treatment, eye care, dental care, physiotherapy and laboratory services.
    Other services received by beneficiaries were free drugs, reading glasses, dental hygiene kits, and mosquito nets.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the medical outreach was part of the activities to commemorate the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) and 163 years of existence of the Nigerian Army.
    NAN reports that the theme of the 2026 NADCEL celebration is “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army.”
    Flagging-off the outreach, the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Chinedu Nnebeife, said the event was aimed at fostering strong and effective civil-military relations,.
    He said that the initiative also aimed at encouraging information sharing, and supporting local communities and institutions.
    The GOC, represented by the Division’s Chief of Staff, Brig.-Gen. Modupe Falana, said that there was the need for stronger civil-military cooperation and collaboration, especially at a time when Nigeria was facing heightened security challenges.
    “The outreach is intended to create health awareness, provide medical interventions and treatments, and thereby promote good health among the people of Ojoo and bridge the gap in accessing healthcare services,” Nnebeife said.
    The GOC appreciated the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen.. Waidi Shaibu for deeming it necessary for all Nigerian Army formations and units to carry out medical outreaches to assist civilian communities within their operational environments.
    He said that the Nigerian Army would not relent in its efforts in using medical outreach programmes as a veritable tool for strengthening civil-military cooperation.
    In his remarks, Commander 2 Division Medical Services and Hospitals,Brig.-Gen. Okechukwu Azuoru, said that the outreach was designed to address some of the health challenges faced by members of the community.
    Azuoru said that the outreach would also address both preventive and curative healthcare needs aimed at reducing disease burden within the community, minimising health complications, and promoting healthier living.
    “This initiative will undoubtedly empower individuals to take greater control of their health, thereby enhancing their productivity and overall well-being,” he said.
    Speaking on behalf of the community, the Olojoo of Ojoo, Baale Hazmat Olagboyega , expressed his gratitude to the Nigerian Army for constantly reaching out to residents of the community.
    Olagboyega said the medical outreach has really helped in reducing the financial burden of accessing quality healthcare services.
    The Iya loja of Ojoo, Mrs Eniola Mariam and some of the beneficiaries of the medical outreach thanked the Nigerian Army for the gesture.(NAN)
  • Lanlehin, Adedoja to Lead Oyo APC Reconciliation Committee. ‎

    Lanlehin, Adedoja to Lead Oyo APC Reconciliation Committee. ‎

    ‎Lanlehin, Adedoja to Lead Oyo APC Reconciliation Committee.
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    ‎By Adewale Owoade
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    ‎The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has constituted a 14 – Member powerful  reconciliation committee to unite the governorship aspirants and strengthen the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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    ‎The committee is to be co chaired by former Senator, Olufemi Lanlehin,a former Senator who represented Oyo South senatorial district at the 7th assembly and also the 2019 governorship candidate  of African Democratic Congress ADC .
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    ‎And Prof Taoheed Adedoja, former Minister of Sports and Special Duties, the  1998  governorship candidate  of Democratic Party of Nigeria,DPN  and also 2007 governorship candidate of Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN.
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    ‎According to the party, the committee was established following the emergence of its candidates for the 2027 Governorship election ,Sen Sarafadeen Abiodun Alli, and the committee is  expected to reconcile all the eleven  governorship aspirants who participated in the party’s primary election.
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    ‎Membership of the high level committee include Chief Mrs Oluwakemi Alao Akala, wife of late governor Adebayo Alao Akala, Dr Felicia Adekemi Opatunde, (Oyo State Women Leader), Prof. Afolabi Oladapo (Former Head of Service of the Federation of Nigeria).

     

    Alhaji Abubakar Adejare Gbadamosi , an Okeogun well established politician,Sen. Brimo Yusuf  (retired Nigerian Army Brigadier General who represented Oyo north as Senator of the Federal Republic  ),from 1999 to 2003.
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    ‎Alhaji Isiaka Alimi ( former Vice-Chairman of the party), Sen. Hosea Ayoola Agboola (Deputy chief whip of the 7th senate), Alhaji Kamorudeen Ajisafe,an Iddo local government Strong party chieftain.
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    ‎Pa Timothy Jolaoso, (former Commissioner for Establishment under Late Chief Bola Ige in the Old Oyo State and a respected elder and  leader of the Progressives in Ibarapa zone of the state.
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    ‎Engr Idris Adegboyega Adeoye, a renown grassroot mobilizer in Oyo as well as  Dr Ismail Adebayo Adewusi (Former  Postmaster General of the Federation,and Rt Hon. Olagunju Ojo (former  Speaker of the State Assembly )
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    ‎The committee has been mandated to  engage all governorship aspirants who purchased the party’s Expression of Interest and Nomination forms and contested the primary election, with a view to reconciling any perceived grievances and securing their support for the party’s candidate.
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    ‎In a statement jointly signed by the Oyo APC Chairman, and a former Deputy governor,Dr Moses Alake Adeyemo, and the State Secretary, Barr. Fatal Adesina, the party said the committee’s assignment is aimed at fostering unity and ensuring victory at the 2027 polls.
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    ‎According to the statement, “We all know that a divided house cannot stand together to undertake the herculean task of winning an election.
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    ‎”The party strongly counts on your experience and pedigree to resolve all issues amicably. Winning the election will open doors to greater opportunities for the party and the people.”
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    ‎The committee is expected to meet with all aspirants and from an impeccable source the committee will also engage
    ‎the party’s 2023 governorship candidate, Senator Teslim Folarin,  whom the party described as a key stakeholder and a distinguish party man.
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    ‎According to the party leadership,the reconciliation committee enjoys the support of its national leadership as well as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who acknowledged that Oyo State gave him the highest votes in south west at the 2023 presidential election.
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    ‎The party further disclosed that similar reconciliation committees would be constituted for National Assembly and State House of Assembly aspirants, adding that the inauguration of the committees will take place in the coming days.
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  • Mohammed Visits Makinde, Urges Stronger Security Measures After Oriire Kidnappings

    Mohammed Visits Makinde, Urges Stronger Security Measures After Oriire Kidnappings

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    Mohammed Visits Makinde, Urges Stronger Security Measures After Oriire Kidnappings

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    By Adewale Owoade

     

    ‎Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has visited Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde at his private residence in Ibadan to sympathise with the government and people of the state over the abduction of teachers and pupils in Yawota and Esiele communities of Oriire Local Government Area.

     

    ‎Mohammed, who was accompanied by leaders of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), including the party’s National Chairman, Alhaji Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, and its Bauchi State governorship candidate, Dr. Yakubu Adamu, called for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s security architecture to better guarantee the safety of citizens.

    ‎Speaking with journalists after the visit, the Bauchi governor commended Makinde’s efforts toward securing the safe release of the abducted teachers and pupils, expressing optimism that the victims would regain their freedom soon.

     

    ‎”I am here with our leaders from the Allied Peoples Movement to commiserate with Governor Seyi Makinde over the ordeal the people and government of Oyo State are facing as a result of the abduction of our schoolchildren and their teachers.

     

    ‎”It has been a lingering issue for some time, and we share in the grief of the people. We are here to encourage him and acknowledge the efforts he is making to ensure their release, which are being noticed across the country.

     

    ‎”On behalf of myself and the government and people of Bauchi State, we sympathise with him and urge him to continue his efforts until these Nigerians are safely released.”

    ‎The governor also expressed his readiness to support the Oyo State Government in any way possible to facilitate the victims’ early release.

     

    ‎Commenting on the broader security situation in the country, Mohammed stressed the need for stronger collaboration among security agencies and between security operatives and citizens.

    ‎According to him, Nigeria’s security framework requires critical scrutiny to foster greater commitment, coordination and effectiveness in tackling insecurity.

     

    ‎”I think the citizenry must rise to the occasion and take greater responsibility for their security. People should not serve as informants for criminal elements or aid criminal activities in any form,” he said.

     

    ‎He also emphasised the role of leadership in addressing insecurity, urging citizens to elect leaders capable of responding to the nation’s security challenges.

     

    ‎”We must all accept responsibility at every level of leadership—national, sub-national and local government. As we approach another election cycle, Nigerians should make informed choices and elect leaders who can address the challenges confronting the country,” Mohammed added. (NAN)

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  • Oseni Assures Tinubu of One Million Votes from Oyo, Unveils Support for Artisans

    Oseni Assures Tinubu of One Million Votes from Oyo, Unveils Support for Artisans

    ‎Oseni Assures Tinubu of One Million Votes from Oyo, Unveils Support for Artisans
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    ‎By Adewale Owoade
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    ‎The lawmaker representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rep. Remi Oseni, has mobilised thousands of artisans and traders across Oyo State to support the re-election of President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
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    ‎Oseni, convener of the Remi Oseni Committee of Friends (ROCOF), said artisans and traders must see themselves as critical stakeholders in President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at repositioning Nigeria.
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    ‎He made the remarks during a stakeholders’ engagement meeting with members of ROCOF Progressive Workers and Traders’ Associations  in Ibadan.
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    ‎The federal lawmaker urged traders and artisans to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to enable them to participate in future elections.
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    ‎He also cautioned against vote-buying and vote-selling, stressing that such practices undermine the future of coming generations.
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    ‎Oseni, who is seeking to represent Oyo South Senatorial District in the next election cycle, said the meeting was also organised to discuss additional areas where members could benefit from empowerment programmes designed to support their businesses and livelihoods.
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    ‎He disclosed that requests for a N250 million interest-free loan scheme for artisans and traders under ROCOF, the construction of an artisans’ village with stable electricity supply, and health insurance support had all received approval.
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    ‎Oseni, who also serves as Chairman of the House Committee on Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), explained that the interest-free loan scheme would be administered through a microfinance bank under the Remi Oseni Foundation.
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    He added that road and infrastructure development projects would also remain a priority.
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    ‎According to him, the meeting was equally intended to brief members of the artisans’ and traders’ associations, as well as other supporters, on the circumstances that led to his decision to pursue a senatorial seat instead of his earlier governorship ambition.
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    ‎“We convened this ROCOF Progressive Workers and Traders’ Associations stakeholders’ meeting to review our current position. Before now, our focus was on taking over the leadership of Oyo State through the governorship.
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    ‎“That was our clear objective as a movement. Today, however, it is evident that God has directed us toward the Senate.
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    ‎“Our people needed to be properly informed about the decision, the party’s position, and what we have accepted.
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    ‎“It is not enough for us to accept what our leaders offer. We have a responsibility to carry our supporters along and encourage them to embrace the opportunity in good faith.
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    ‎“We want them to believe that the same God who has made this possible can also open greater doors in the future.
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    ‎“We are also here to encourage them and sustain their expectations from us. Many believe that achieving our initial governorship ambition would have brought greater benefits to them as an institution.
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    ‎“However, we have reassured them that the government is behind us. The President has encouraged us and assured us that the future remains bright.
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    ‎“We have equally assured the President that our decision to contest for the Oyo South Senate seat will not affect the one million votes we promised him, as ROCOF structures across the 33 local government areas are fully committed to supporting him,” Oseni said.
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    ‎Oseni further stated that efforts are underway to reconcile aggrieved members of the party, expressing confidence that all outstanding issues would soon be resolved.
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    ‎According to him, the existence of differing interests within the APC is a reflection of its strength and popularity as a winning party.
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    ‎Earlier, the Oyo State Coordinator of ROCOF Progressive Workers and Traders’ Associations, Alhaji Munirudeen Adegoke, described Oseni’s empowerment initiatives as a strategic economic investment.
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    ‎According to him, empowering artisans and traders helps reduce unemployment, curb youth restiveness, and alleviate poverty within communities.
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    ‎“This is why we believe empowerment for artisans and traders requires more than temporary handouts. It demands structured policies that guarantee access to capital, modern infrastructure, and social protection,” Adegoke said.

  • June 12 : Shina Peller Laments Widening Gap Between Leaders and Citizens.

    June 12 : Shina Peller Laments Widening Gap Between Leaders and Citizens.

    ‎June 12 : Shina Peller Laments Widening Gap Between Leaders and Citizens.

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    ‎By Adewale Owoade
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    ‎Prominent stakeholder and Ayedero of Yorubaland, Hon. Shina Peller, has declared that Nigeria’s democracy has failed to deliver meaningful benefits to ordinary citizens, despite more than two decades of democratic governance.
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    ‎In a candid Democracy Day message, Peller criticised the nation’s political leadership, warning that Nigeria is “building a house of cards” by neglecting the economic hardship and insecurity confronting millions of citizens.
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    ‎Departing from the usual celebratory tone that characterises June 12 commemorations, the former lawmaker said he would not engage in what he described as “empty, sugar-coated political rhetoric.”
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    ‎According to him, while Nigeria has established the procedural framework of democracy, it has largely failed to provide its promised dividends to the people.
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    ‎”Let us be brutally honest with ourselves: We are practising a democracy, but we are yet to deliver its dividends to the ordinary Nigerian,” Peller said.
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    ‎He noted that the growing gap between the political elite and the masses threatens the true essence of June 12, a struggle that symbolised justice, freedom and the will of the people.
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    ‎Peller argued that the ideals of the historic democratic movement are being undermined by widespread poverty, unemployment and systemic hardship.
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    ‎Addressing political officeholders, he urged leaders at all levels to regard governance as a sacred public trust rather than a personal achievement.
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    ‎He warned that leaders cannot afford to remain detached from the realities facing citizens while hunger, insecurity and economic uncertainty continue to worsen.
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    ‎The Ayedero of Yorubaland also challenged Nigerians to play a more active role in strengthening democratic institutions.
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    ‎He urged citizens not to treat democracy as a four-year voting exercise, but as a continuous process that requires vigilance, participation and accountability.
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    ‎Peller further cautioned against vote-buying and identity-based politics, saying citizens who exchange their votes for temporary gains or allow ethnic and religious sentiments to influence their choices contribute to the nation’s underdevelopment.
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    ‎Despite his criticism of the current state of affairs, he expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, citing the resilience, creativity and potential of the country’s youth.
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    ‎To reposition the nation, Peller advocated a three-pronged approach centred on institutional accountability, economic inclusion and national unity founded on justice and fairness.
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    ‎He also encouraged young Nigerians to channel their frustrations into constructive civic and political engagement rather than apathy.
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    ‎Peller called on leaders across all levels of government to ensure that the significance of June 12 goes beyond annual celebrations by taking deliberate actions that improve the lives of citizens.
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    ‎According to him, democracy must be experienced daily through good governance, justice and economic opportunity, rather than merely celebrated as a slogan once a year.

     

     

     

  • ORI OLOKUN: A Masterpiece of Yoruba Civilisation, Spirituality and Artistic Heritage

    ORI OLOKUN: A Masterpiece of Yoruba Civilisation, Spirituality and Artistic Heritage

    ORI OLOKUN: A Masterpiece of Yoruba Civilisation, Spirituality and Artistic Heritage

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    ‎By Oluwaseyi Oduneye-Ogunwomoju

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    ‎Dawodu Abigail Olateju, Conservator, the National Museum of Unity,  Ibadan,  has said  that  Ori Olokun, literally translated as “Head of Olokun,” is one of the most celebrated artistic and cultural treasures associated with the ancient Yoruba city of Ile-Ife, widely regarded as the cradle of Yoruba civilisation.

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    Olateju stated this while speaking to journalists  at the National Museum of Unity,  Ibadan, on the history of  ORI  OLOKUN

     

    ‎According to her , the name is also associated with the famous bronze head discovered in Ile-Ife in 1910. Dating between the 12th and 15th centuries, the sculpture showcases extraordinary craftsmanship and naturalism achieved through the lost-wax casting technique.

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    ‎”Its remarkable realism challenged colonial-era misconceptions about African art and demonstrated the sophistication of ancient Yoruba civilisation.

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    ‎”Reverenced for its exceptional craftsmanship, historical significance, and spiritual symbolism, Ori Olokun remains a powerful representation of the artistic sophistication, religious beliefs, and cultural identity of the Yoruba people.

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    ‎”Discovered in Ile-Ife in the early twentieth century, Ori Olokun is a remarkable terracotta head renowned for its striking naturalism and technical excellence.

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    ‎”The sculpture depicts a human head adorned with intricately carved facial markings, finely detailed features, and a regal expression that reflects dignity, wisdom, and authority.”

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    ‎She stated further that  its extraordinary realism challenged long-held misconceptions about African art and demonstrated that sophisticated artistic traditions flourished in West Africa centuries before European contact.

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    ‎The name “Olokun” refers to the revered Yoruba deity associated with the deep sea, wealth, prosperity, fertility, and spiritual abundance. In Yoruba cosmology, Olokun is regarded as the custodian of immense riches and hidden mysteries beneath the ocean.

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    ‎The association of the sculpture with Olokun highlights the profound relationship between spiritual power, kingship, and prosperity within Yoruba traditional belief systems.

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    ‎As a result, Ori Olokun is often interpreted not merely as a work of art but as a sacred symbol embodying divine authority and supernatural protection.

     

    ‎Beyond its religious significance, Ori Olokun stands as a testament to the technological and artistic achievements of ancient Ile-Ife.

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    ‎The sculpture reflects a highly advanced understanding of modelling, proportion, and aesthetics.

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    ‎The precision of its facial features, the symmetry of its form, and the intricate scarification patterns demonstrate the expertise of Ife artists, whose works have earned global recognition as some of the finest examples of African classical art.

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  • Two Suspected Kidnappers Nabbed as Iru Ekun Rescues Abductees in Osun Forest

    Two Suspected Kidnappers Nabbed as Iru Ekun Rescues Abductees in Osun Forest

    ‎Two Suspected Kidnappers Nabbed as Iru Ekun Rescues Abductees in Osun Forest

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    ‎By Adewale Owoade

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    ‎Operatives of the Iru Ekun Security Network, founded by Chief Sunday Adeyemo Igboho, have apprehended two suspected kidnappers during a coordinated operation in Ora-Igbomina, Osun State.

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    ‎The operation, carried out on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, also led to the rescue of two abducted persons, while efforts are ongoing to locate and rescue a third victim.

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    ‎The intervention followed intelligence received on Tuesday, June 9, indicating that three residents of the community had been abducted by armed men and taken into a nearby forest.

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    ‎Acting on the information, the Iru Ekun rapid response team mobilised immediately and launched a bush-combing operation in line with its mandate of securing communities and protecting lives.

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    ‎According to the team’s leadership, the suspects confessed during preliminary interrogation that they were nationals of the Republic of Niger.

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    ‎The suspects reportedly admitted to abducting the three victims and leading them into the forest on June 9.

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    ‎During an encounter with Iru Ekun operatives, the suspects were overpowered and arrested after allegedly attempting to resist capture. The operatives subsequently rescued two of the victims, who were found unharmed.

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    ‎A search-and-rescue operation remains ongoing to locate the third victim and ensure his safe return.

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    ‎In compliance with established legal procedures and security protocols, the suspects were handed over to officers of the Nigeria Police Force at the Oke-Ila Division in Osun State on June 10 for further investigation and possible prosecution.

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    ‎The Iru Ekun Security Network stressed that its operations are designed to complement the constitutional responsibilities of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies.

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    ‎Chief Sunday Adeyemo Igboho commended the discipline and professionalism displayed by the operatives during the operation.

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    ‎He reiterated that the security outfit was established to support government efforts through intelligence gathering, early warning mechanisms, and rapid response services, particularly in rural communities where difficult terrain and long distances often hinder timely intervention by conventional security agencies.

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    ‎”Our duty is prevention and protection, not confrontation. Iru Ekun exists to bridge the security gap at the grassroots, operate within the law, and ensure that our people can farm, travel and sleep without fear,” Adeyemo said.

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    ‎He also called on traditional rulers, community leaders and residents across Osun and neighbouring states to remain vigilant, provide timely information to security agencies and support efforts aimed at preventing criminal activities, especially in border communities.

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    ‎The incident in Ora-Igbomina highlights the growing security concerns in parts of the country, where criminal gangs have increasingly exploited forested areas and remote routes for kidnapping operations.

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    ‎Iru Ekun assured members of the public that the ongoing rescue effort is being conducted with professionalism and caution to ensure the safety of the remaining victim.

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    ‎The outfit pledged to provide further updates as the operation progresses.

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  • Oyo Govt, KickStart International Partner to Boost Food Security, Irrigation Farming

    Oyo Govt, KickStart International Partner to Boost Food Security, Irrigation Farming

    ‎Oyo Govt, KickStart International Partner to Boost Food Security, Irrigation Farming
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    ‎By Adewale Owoade
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    ‎The Oyo State Government, KickStart International, and other key stakeholders have pledged to strengthen agricultural sustainability and enhance food security across the state.
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    ‎The stakeholders made the commitment at a forum held in Ibadan, stressing that increased agricultural productivity and improved access to farming inputs are essential to improving livelihoods and ensuring food sufficiency.
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    ‎Speaking at the stakeholders’ forum organised by KickStart International, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, said the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has continued to make significant investments in the agricultural sector.
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    ‎Represented by the Ministry’s Director of Research, Planning and Statistics, Mrs Adeniran Funke, the commissioner said the state government remains committed to partnering with stakeholders to promote sustainable agriculture and food security.
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    ‎He identified irrigation as a critical component of agricultural development, noting that rivers flowing through Ibadan already support many young farmers engaged in vegetable cultivation.
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    ‎According to him, only about 40 per cent of the state’s water resources are currently being utilised for agricultural purposes.
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    ‎”Irrigation practice is very important. Within Ibadan, we have rivers flowing through the city where many young people cultivate vegetables. The Oyo State Government has been supporting them to become more productive.
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    ‎”However, only about 40 per cent of our water bodies are being utilised in Oyo State. We can do much more, and the government is interested in expanding collaboration with KickStart International to achieve this,” he said.
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    ‎Olaleye added that the government is shifting its focus toward smart, precision and climate-resilient agriculture.
    ‎Citing forecasts by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) indicating reduced rainfall this year.
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    ‎He urged farmers to plant early, adopt early-maturing crop varieties and embrace irrigation farming to sustain productivity.
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    ‎”Government has responded by intensifying farmer training and certification programmes. Farmers are encouraged to plant early, use early-maturing varieties and adopt irrigation practices to ensure adequate productivity before rainfall declines,” he said.
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    ‎In his remarks, the West Africa Regional Manager of KickStart International, Dr Festus Ademola, said the organisation has expanded support for smallholder irrigation farmers to improve livelihoods and agricultural output.
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    ‎He explained that the organisation’s affordable MoneyMaker Irrigation Pumps enable farmers to cultivate crops throughout the year, sell produce during off-season periods at better prices and reduce post-harvest losses.
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    ‎”What we encourage is year-round farming regardless of rainfall patterns. Farmers are able to create their own water supply for farming, increase their incomes and improve their livelihoods.
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    That is what we stand for,” Ademola said.
    ‎He added that KickStart International provides free training on pump operation, maintenance and good agricultural practices, noting that the manually operated pumps are simple and farmer-friendly.
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    ‎Representatives of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN), MFI-BOWEN, Cocoa Farmers Association and other partners pledged continued collaboration with KickStart International to promote sustainable agriculture and food security in Oyo State.
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    ‎Also speaking, a participant, Mr Bankole Ojo, Project Officer with the Cocoa Sustainability and Fabrication Project, described water as a critical resource for farming.
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    ‎He noted that many farmers have benefited from KickStart International’s locally manufactured and environmentally friendly irrigation pumps.
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  • OYAF Seeks Greater Inclusion in APM, Pledges Loyalty to Party

    OYAF Seeks Greater Inclusion in APM, Pledges Loyalty to Party

    OYAF Seeks Greater Inclusion in APM, Pledges Loyalty to Party

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    A group of political aspirants under the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Oyo State, operating under the banner of the Oyo State Aspirants Forum (OYAF), has called for greater inclusiveness within the party structure to strengthen unity and mobilise support ahead of future elections.

     

    The aspirants made the call during a meeting at the residence of party chieftain, Alhaji Adebisi Olopoeniyan, where members of the forum sought guidance on sustaining their political structures within the party.

     

    One of the aspirants, Dr. Amoda Afeez said the initiative was conceived to prevent aspirants and their supporters from defecting to other political parties after primary elections.

     

    According to him, members of the forum, who had previously contested elective positions, still possess strong grassroots structures capable of contributing significantly to the party’s future electoral success.

     

    Afeeze explained that the group decided to unite under one platform to preserve its political networks and work collectively for the growth and success of the party across the state.

     

    He said the visit to Olopoeniyan was aimed at seeking his support and intervention in engaging Governor Seyi Makinde on ways to accommodate and encourage loyal party members.

     

    He added that members of the forum were optimistic about the outcome of their consultations, expressing confidence that positive results would emerge from engagements with party stakeholders.

     

    Also speaking, a member of the forum from Lagelu Local Government Area, Alhaja Oluwatoyin Fatima Oyebori Oluwa, said the group remained committed to supporting the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde and ensuring the party’s continued success.

     

    She described the forum as a platform built on unity, mutual support and shared political aspirations, adding that members were determined to work together towards achieving common goals.

     

    Oyebori Oluwa noted that members of the forum command considerable support across their constituencies and local government areas, stressing that their grassroots influence could be verified through their mobilisation efforts and regular meetings.

     

    Another member of the forum, Hon. Adenowo Oluwaseun Abiodun, described the meeting as fruitful and reaffirmed the group’s support for Governor Makinde’s leadership.

     

    Abiodun said the forum was determined to change the narrative in which unsuccessful aspirants abandon or work against their party after primaries.

     

    He said members had instead resolved to remain united and contribute to strengthening the party ahead of future elections.

     

    In their separate remarks, the State Chairman of the party, Otunba Fagbemi Adegbenro, and Alhaji Adebisi Olopoeniyan urged the aspirants to remain hopeful, focused, and committed to the collective progress of the party.

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    ‎They further encouraged members to sustain their engagement with key stakeholders within the party, expressing confidence that their consultations would produce positive outcomes for both the forum and the APM.

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    ‎Other members of the forum are, Moshood Ismail Abioye, Alhaja Olanrewaju Temitope, Hon Rasaq Boladale Raheem, Tosin David, and Matthew Ajao Okeowo.