Flowerbud News

Author: Wale Owoade

  • FG Supports Yardcode to Promote National Security, Effective Governance ‎

    FG Supports Yardcode to Promote National Security, Effective Governance ‎

    ‎FG Supports Yardcode to Promote National Security, Effective Governance

    By Adewale Owoade

    ‎The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling insecurity in Nigeria through advanced Information and Communication Technology (ICT) initiatives.

    ‎ Dr. Salihu Dasuki, Special Assistant to the President on ICT Policy, made this known at the launch of Yardcode, a digital location platform developed by Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN).

    ‎Dasuki emphasised that the Yardcode application will enhance security measures, facilitate emergency responses, and promote effective governance.

    He noted that the integration of ICT in security protocols is essential for public safety and national security.

    “The Federal Government’s commitment to leveraging ICT in tackling insecurity is unwavering. We believe that technology is a crucial tool for enhancing national security.

    “Yardcode is not just an application; it is a paradigm shift in how we approach addressing challenges in our communities.

    ‎”By utilising technology, we can foster a safer environment for all Nigerians. This initiative is a testament to our dedication to secure our nation.

    ‎”The integration of ICT in our security frameworks will enable us to respond more effectively to threats, ensuring a safer future for our citizens.

    ‎”We are confident that with Yardcode, we will bridge the gaps in our addressing system and enhance the overall security landscape of Nigeria,” Dasuki stated.

    ‎The Surveyor-General of the Federation, Surv. Adebomehin Adeyemi, praised the developers for their ingenuity, highlighting Yardcode’s potential to transform Nigeria’s addressing system and enhance security.

    ‎”As Surveyor-General of the Federation, I deeply recognise the paramount importance of accurate, real-time geospatial data in informing sound policy decisions and driving sustainable progress.

    “Yardcode’s introduction of a unique, permanent identifier for every square metre of Nigerian territory is not just a change; it is a profound transformation and a true game changer for our country.

    “This groundbreaking innovation has far-reaching and transformative implications across multiple sectors, for effective governance, seamless public service delivery, rapid emergency response, strategic infrastructure planning, and precise demographic data collection.

    ‎”Yardcode’s direct alignment with the Nigerian National Addressing Standard’s emphasis on precise GPS location is not merely a step forward; it is a monumental leap that positions Nigeria at the forefront of digital addressing solutions.

    “The potential benefits are immense and undeniable. I commend the visionary developers for their ingenuity, dedication, and unwavering commitment to harnessing cutting-edge technology for national development,” he said.

    ‎Dr. Olusola Ayoola, founder of RAIN, described Yardcode as a paradigm shift in addressing challenges, providing every location in Nigeria with a unique identifier.

    Dr Ayoola  appreciated  the Minister of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, for supporting technology innovations in Nigeria.

    ‎”Nigeria is not just copying technology from other countries; we are creating solutions. Yardcode is the first system like this that works without the internet. It is made specially for African conditions. It covers the whole of Nigeria instantly.

    “We are creating a model for West Africa and the whole world. Every business owner, every farmer, every Nigerian now has an address that connects them to the global economy.

    “We are moving from a Nigeria where addresses are problems to a Nigeria where addresses are solutions. From confusion to clarity. From struggling with directions to leading the world in location technology,” he disclosed.

    Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by the Special Assistant on ICT and e-Governance, Mr. Bayo Akande, pledged Oyo State’s support for the innovation, acknowledging its potential to address national concerns.

    The event showcased the collaborative efforts of stakeholders in harnessing technology to drive national development and security.

  • Former Egbeda House Leader Declares for House of Reps Seat.

    Former Egbeda House Leader Declares for House of Reps Seat.

    ‎Former Egbeda House Leader Declares for House of Reps Seat.

    ‎By Adewale Owoade

    ‎Hon. Dauda Raheem, former leader of Egbeda Local Government Legislative Arm, has officially declared his candidacy for the Egbeda/Ona-Ara Federal Constituency seat in the 2027 elections under the APC.

    Raheem made the declaration at a carnival-like event in Ibadan, highlighting his legislative experience and past achievements.

    Raheem promised to bring dividends of democracy to the grassroots, focusing on empowerment, job creation, and sustainable development.

    He vowed to introduce soft loans for women in small-scale businesses, secure jobs for youths, and ensure equitable resource allocation between Egbeda and Ona-Ara Local Governments.

    He also pledged to work toward creating separate federal constituencies for the two local governments.

    Former Egbeda Local Government Chairman, Hon. Sodiq Akintunde, lauded Raheem’s entry into the race, describing him as an experienced and capable politician.

    Akintunde commended Raheem’s past performance, citing his establishment of an ICT Centre, job facilitation for youths, and contributions to community development.

    Expressing optimism, Akintunde said the constituency was returning to “the good old ways” of politics and governance, adding that electing Raheem would guarantee better days for the people, especially women.

    The event was attended by notable politicians, political associates, women groups, youths, and other well-wishers.

  • Cleric Calls on Politicians to Prioritise Governance Over Political Intrigues

    Cleric Calls on Politicians to Prioritise Governance Over Political Intrigues

    ‎Cleric Calls on Politicians to Prioritise Governance Over Political Intrigues

    ‎By Adewale Owoade

    ‎The Diocesan Bishop of Ibadan, the most Reverend Williams has urged politicians to focus on delivering good governance and addressing the country’s problems rather than fixating on the 2027 elections.

    Aladekugbe said this at the funeral service of 43rd Olubadan of Ibdadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Late Dr. Owolabi Olakulehin, held at St. Peter’s Cathedral, Aremo, Ibadan.

    ‎He expressed concern over the current state of Nigeria, citing widespread hardship, poverty, and insecurity while campaign against 2027 ahead of National unity a sort of desperacy.

    ‎Also criticised the recent increase in telecommunications tariffs, saying it was insensitive to the masses and a signal of disconnect with the people.

    ‎He emphasized the need for mass employment programs to address the country’s teeming youth population.

    The bishop appealed to the government to prioritize the protection of citizens’ lives and invest in intelligence reporting, equipping security outfits, and enhancing surveillance to combat insecurity.

    ‎He also urged politicians to delay political intrigues and focus on governance and service to the people.

    He reaffirmed Church’s commitment to continually pray for all levels of government, seeking divine intervention in the nation’s affairs.

    Earlier, the man of God described the late Olubadan, as humble, dedicated, custodian of culture, man of contributory intellect to Oyo State and Nigeria, a huge loss to the entire Ibadanland.

    After the service, the body was moved to the graveyard within the church for interment

    ‎The funeral service was attended by prominent dignitaries, including Governor Seyi Makinde, his deputy, Barrister Bayo Lawal, Major General O G Onubogu, General Officer Commanding 2 Division of Nigeria Army, among others.

  • Senator Alli pays WAEC fees, awards scholarships to 56 Oyo Students

    Senator Alli pays WAEC fees, awards scholarships to 56 Oyo Students

         

    Senator Alli pays WAEC fees, awards scholarships to 56 Oyo Students

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    By Akeem Abas

     

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    Sen. Sharafadeen Alli representing Oyo South Senatorial District, has paid WAEC fees for 48 students and awarded scholarships to eight undergraduates across Oyo South Senatorial District, in a major educational empowerment effort.

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    The presentation was held Thursday in Ibadan during the second edition of the Awards and Presentation of Scholarship Programme, organised by Good Governance and Development Initiative (GGDI) in collaboration with Senator Alli.

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    Alli said he was fulfilled that the initiative now runs in 20 centres and continues to positively impact young students, while gulping millions of naira in personal sponsorship.

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    He expressed joy that participants of the maiden edition are now undergraduates, saying the success proves the effectiveness of the intervention and encourages further expansion in scope.

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    “I give glory to God that we are having the second edition today. It has imparted quite a lot of people from what I gathered from Supervisors, teachers and even pupils.

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    “One of the good things about it is that we have some people who took part in the last one and are undergraduate today, which in effect means we are having an impact.

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    “We have also improved on it. On this second one, we have about 20 centres. Also, we have expanded the scope to include some other children.

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    “The feedback has been very impressive. We are planning to include undergraduates too and these initiative gulps millions of naira.,’’ he said.

     

    Chairman of the Occasion, Prince Oluyemisi Adeaga, lauded the sponsor and organisers for grooming the future generation through education and urged beneficiaries to take the opportunity seriously.

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    Adeaga said the programme was helping bridge gaps in the lives of indigent students, stressing that education could take anyone beyond life’s expectations with proper commitment.

    “We particularly appreciate the parents and organiser. Children, this is an opportunity for you to turn things positively for yourself.

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    “I want to thank you for bridging the gap that exist in the lives of these children. Education can take you to a place that is beyond expectation,’’ he said.

     

    Prof. Peter Olapegba, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Admin), University of Ibadan, commended Alli and GGDI, urging other Nigerians and organisations to emulate the impactful gesture, since government alone cannot fund education sustainably.

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    Olapegba, the guest lecturer, described education as a catalyst for national development, advising beneficiaries to remain focused, disciplined, and serious in order to maximise the rare lifetime opportunity.

    “ Other well-meaning people in the society should emulate what Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli and other organisations should also emulate CGDI.

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    ” We must come to the realisation that government alone cannot do everything.

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    “So organisations like this and individuals like the senator should actually come around to complement whatever government is doing. Government should prioritise education. A nation cannot develop beyond the level of its education.

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    “So, if you are talking of sustainable development, it means that you must provide access to functional education, not just access to school.

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    “My advice for the beneficiaries is that they should see this as an opportunity of a life time, for them to make something out of their life.

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    “They should embrace it, they should be serious, they should be focus, so that they can become important people in life,’’ he said.

     

    Prof. Olayinka Omotosho, GGDI Coordinator, said the initiative was conceived to improve youth education and academic excellence in a society plagued by distractions and misinformation.

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    He said education remains the most sustainable form of empowerment and that the initiative continues to grow under the unwavering support of Senator Sharafadeen Alli.

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    Omotosho noted that the group’s mission of improving education, health and youth welfare in Oyo State has recorded tangible results through continuous, strategic intervention and partnerships.

    “This initiative was born out of the need to improve youth education quality, regardless of societal pressures.

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    “Through our free holiday coaching programme, we aim to rebuild academic excellence and inspire responsible youths amid rising social distractions and misinformation.

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    “The best and lasting empowerment is through education. No amount of other donations can compare to the life-changing impact educational empowerment brings to individuals and their communities,’’ he said.

     

    Stakeholders and parents at the event commended the initiative, saying it has reignited hope and built a new path for academic achievement among underprivileged children across the district.

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    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the undergraduates, who participated in the first edition, received N100,000 each in scholarship to support their ongoing tertiary education.

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    Beneficiaries include Sekinat Adewole of FCE Osiele; Ireoluwa Sogunle of KWASU; Moyinoluwa Onaolapo of FUTA and Abiodun Kolapo of UNIOSUN, all from Ibadan coaching centres.

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    From Ibarapa zone, scholarship recipients include Rofiat Adeleke of LASU, Abiodun Okunlola of UNIOSUN, Ayomide Oyeyemi and Silas Adejumo, both from the University of Ibadan. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

  • OYRTMA’s Daily Enlightenment Programme Aims to Reform Traffic Offenders.

    OYRTMA’s Daily Enlightenment Programme Aims to Reform Traffic Offenders.

    OYRTMA’s Daily Enlightenment Programme Aims to Reform Traffic Offenders.

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    The Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) has launched a daily enlightenment programme aimed at reducing road accidents and improving traffic safety in the state.

     

    The initiative, announced by OYRTMA’s Chairman, Major Adekoya Adesagba (rtd), focuses on education rather than punishment, with the goal of reshaping driver behavior and preventing repeat offences.

     

    The programme, which runs from Monday to Friday, educates traffic offenders on common violations such as running red lights and dangerous driving.

     

    According to Adesagba, these offences have contributed significantly to road crashes, injuries, and fatalities in the state. Offenders are required to attend awareness sessions before facing the traffic tribunal.

     

    The agency encouraged all motorists to obey traffic regulations and support ongoing efforts to make the roads safer for all users.

     

    “Enlightenment is in different forms; post and pre. Most time we’ve done a lot of enlightenment through jingles and flyers.

     

    “But this particular one is so important because we are bringing in offenders of different offences according to traffic rules and regulations.

     

    “We find it worthy that it is not just about processing them to make payment or to fine, or to go through Judiciary process (Rule of Law Tribunal) but also it is very important to continue to enlighten them and to show them the dangers involving violations of traffic rules.

     

    “That is why we establish this offender’s enlightenment center to enlighten offenders about dangers of violating traffic rules and regulations

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    ‎ “It is very important to always obey traffic laws, because obedience is better than sacrifice, we value compliance than offenders paying fines.

     

    ‎ “We need to have attitudinal change toward all laws not just traffic laws alone,” Adesagba said.

  • YEAP Beneficiaries, Farmers Laud Gov Makinde for Timely Support.

    YEAP Beneficiaries, Farmers Laud Gov Makinde for Timely Support.

    YEAP Beneficiaries, Farmers Laud Gov Makinde for Timely Support.

    By Adewale Owoade

    Members of the Oyo State Youth Entrepreneurship in Agribusiness Project (YEAP) and farmers from various local government areas have expressed gratitude to Governor Seyi Makinde for the timely distribution of farm inputs under the N-Cares program.

    ‎The YEAP members, who were sponsored by the state government for agribusiness training at CSS Farm in Nassarawa State, commended the governor’s commitment to farmers’ welfare.

    The Director-General of Oyo State Agribusiness Development Agency (OYSADA), Dr. Debo Akande, explained that the 5th distribution of Oyo N-Cares farm inputs program is part of the Nigeria Community Action For Resilience And Economic Stimulus Result Area 2.

    Dr. Akande who was on ground for monitoring and evaluation of the distribution exercise also sensitised the beneficiaries of the Inputs about the importance of the items given to them.

    ‎He noted that the governor’s initiative has already yielded results, with increased farm produces recorded in the state.

    ‎While speaking on behalf of the YEAP beneficiary,  Kolade Kehinde, YEAP Coordinator for Oyo East Local Government, expressed gratitude for the farm inputs and mentorship program.

    ‎He said, “Engr. Seyi Makinde a visionary leader, and he’s like a father to us,  he’s  someone who sees potentials even where others may not.

    “We are truly grateful for the opportunity given to us, from the very first trip to Nassarawa up until this stage.

    “Today, we’re being given farm inputs to boost our productivity and improve food production in Oyo State. We are indeed thankful.

    ‎”We are being given herbicides, seedlings, fertilizers, and other essential inputs. In addition, there’s a mentorship programme in place to guide us on how to apply these inputs effectively for maximum yield.”

    ‎Kehinde also reacted to the rumour that YEAP members have been abandoned after their training at Nassarawa farm.

    ‎ “I want people to disregard that rumour, the truth is, the governor is working with a clear process. No serious plan can be executed without structure.

    “It’s possible that some people are misinformed or have unrealistic expectations. But to say we were abandoned or not taken care of is simply false.

    ‎”For instance, right now, we’ve just being contacted by FCMB to receive financial support from the Oyo State Government. They’ve visited our farms, interviewed us, and we’re expecting funding to support our startups.

    “Tough I can’t say the exact amount, but I believe it will be substantial amount. The fact that they’ve taken the time to inspect our farms and provide mentorship gives me confidence. I trust our governor,” Kehinde said.

    Earlier in his address, the executive chairman of Oyo East local government, Hon Peter Oluokun who was represented by the Secretary to the local government,  lauded the Governor over the Oyo N-Cares farm inputs distribution initiative aimed at supporting the vulnerable farmers across the state.

    The chairman urged the beneficiaries of the farm Inputs distribution to make good use of the inputs given to them.

    The distribution exercise was also carried out in Oyo East, Oyo West, Surulere, Atisbo, and Ogooluwa local government.

    The executive chairmen of these local governments lauded Governor Makinde for the initiative and urged beneficiaries to make good use of the inputs.

    The event was attended by traditional leaders, including Chief Adekunle Teslim Baale Olori, Chief Adeleke Basir Loogun Alaafin of Oyo, and Chief Mrs. Titilayo Odurinde Iyalode Agbe Oyo East, among others.

    Some of the YEAP beneficiaries include Lasisi Taofeek, Tajudeen Sakirudeen, Kehinde Busari, and Olaleye Biodun, among others.

     

  • Gov. Makinde Flags Off PDP Campaign for House of Rep By-Election.

    Gov. Makinde Flags Off PDP Campaign for House of Rep By-Election.

    Gov. Makinde Flags Off PDP Campaign for House of Rep By-Election.

    ‎By Adewale Owoade

    ‎Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has rallied residents of Ibadan North Local Government to vote for Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle, the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) candidate in the forthcoming House of Representatives by-election scheduled for August 16, 2025.

    ‎The governor made the call during the official flag-off of the PDP campaign and the presentation of the party’s flag to Oyekunle, held at the Bodija International Market in Ibadan.

    Gov Makinde praised Oyekunle’s experience as a former member of the Oyo State House of Assembly and his contributions to the state government as Deputy Chief of Staff, saying these qualities make him the ideal candidate to represent Ibadan North Federal Constituency.

    The governor urged residents to mobilize voters to support the PDP candidate.

    ‎”I want to greet you, the people of Oyo State, especially the people of Ibadan North. You all know that I don’t have a godfather; I only have you, the people.

    “Let me tell you that this forthcoming election is very important because we all need to prove a point that Oyo State is a PDP State.

    ‎”So, henceforth, when you go about campaigning from ward to ward; house to house, and some people are saying there is another party that can win apart from the PDP, please tell them it won’t happen in Oyo State.

    “Our candidate that you will vote for on the 16th, who will go and represent the people of Ibadan North Federal Constituency, was once a member of the Oyo State House of Assembly and he did well.

    ‎“He didn’t disappoint you. I chose him as my Deputy Chief of Staff because of his good track record and antecedents.

    ‎”Based on what he has been able to do as my DCoS, we know he would deliver if he goes to Abuja to represent us. That is why we are supporting him.”

    Earlier in his welcome address, the Director-General of the Campaign and former chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Mr Ademola Omotosho, thanked Governor Makinde for his leadership and support for the PDP candidate and the party.

    Other PDP leaders and chieftains, including former Deputy Governor Hazeem Gbolarumi and former Member of the House of Representatives Dada Abiodun Awoleye, also rallied support for the party’s candidate.

    The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr Bayo Lawal, and other party officials. (NAN)

  • SAPZ to Unlock Vast Potential, Create Opportunities for Nigerians – VP Shettima

    SAPZ to Unlock Vast Potential, Create Opportunities for Nigerians – VP Shettima

    SAPZ to Unlock Vast Potential, Create Opportunities for Nigerians – VP Shettima

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    Vice President Kashim Shettima, says the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) initiative is aimed at restoring dignity, unlocking vast potential and creating opportunities for Nigerians.

     

    Shettima said this at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) in Ibadan.

     

    Represented by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, the vice president emphasised that the initiative will provide local farmers access to advanced processing facilities, positioning investors to take advantage of the state’s agricultural potential.

     

    “Today’s land breaking of agro industrial hub, under the Special Agricultural Processing Zone (SAPZ) programme at Ijaye Akinyele Local government area, marks a decisive stride in our collectively quest to build a resilient self-sufficient and prosperous Nigeria.

     

    “The SAPZ initiative, is one of the corner stones of the renewed hope agenda, champion by our President, Bola Tinubu. A vision rooted in restoring Nigeria dignity, unlocking our vast potentials and creating opportunities for every citizen.

     

    “It is a testament to our unwavering commitment to a future where hope is renewed through concrete action, strategic partnership and inclusive growth.

     

    “This initiative is not just an infrastructural project, it is a bold declaration that Nigeria’s future lies in transforming our abundant agriculture resources into value added product that fuel industries, generate employment and uplift our farmers.

     

    “Accordingly, we are expanding the development benefits of SAPZ across the 36 states in collaboration with African Development Bank, to onboard 27 more states, starting with10 states by 1st quarter of 2026, sequel to financing procedure between the Federal government and financing partners.

     

    “Let us seize this opportunity with hope, purpose and confidence that the seeds we plant today will blossom into harvests of prosperity for Nigeria,” he said.

    In his speech, the governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, noted that the project is a fulfillment of his administration’s promise to revolutionize the agricultural sector for job creation and prosperity.

     

    “This administration has identified six major farm settlements with three more in Ilora, Iresa Adu and Ipapo to be designed for the succeeding government.

     

    “These hubs are not stand-alone structures, they are deliberately designed as interconnector anchors of our agro business ecosystem, they bring producers closer to the processors and link farms to market.

     

    “They reflect our believe that agriculture is not just about food, it is about infrastructure, enterprise, and also about national relevant

     

    “We are building a future where agriculture feeds not just homes, but industries, where it doesn’t just sustain families but entire economy, and this why this project is very important.

     

    “We cannot build a resilient economy if we neglect this type of sector that employs the most people, uses the most land, and offers the greatest potential for inclusive growth.

     

    “We cannot talk about national food security without regional hub like this one pulling their weight,” Makinde said

    Also, the President of the African Development Bank Dr Akinwumi Adesina, lauded the project and expressed optimism that it will be a success.

     

    Various stakeholders, including the IITA Director-General, Dr Simeon Ehui and Oyo State Agribusiness Director-General, Dr Debo Akande, praised the Makinde-led administration for reducing infrastructural deficits and promoting agricultural development.

     

    The ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries, including a former military Governor, Oladayo Popoola, Deputy Governor Adebayo Lawal, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Economy, Wale Edun.

     

    Also in attendance are the National and State Lawmakers, Oyo State Labour leaders, Oyo state functionaries, religious and traditional leaders, among others. (NAN)

     

  • Prince Akinrinade Urges Peace in Eruwa Royal Matter.

    Prince Akinrinade Urges Peace in Eruwa Royal Matter.

    Prince Akinrinade Urges Peace in Eruwa Royal Matter.

    By Adewale Owoade

    Prince Akinrinade Ajani Adeyemi, a contender for the Eleruwa position from the Omoni Royal Family of Laribikusi Ruling House, has urged for peace and calm following the installation of Samuel Adegbola as Eleruwa of Eruwa.

    Prince Akinrinade, who was nominated by the Omoni Royal Family, appealed to all members of the family and the Laribikusi Ruling House to avoid actions that could disrupt the town’s peace.

    ‎While acknowledging the installation of Adegbola, Prince Akinrinade expressed concerns over the legitimacy of the process, describing it as “daylight robbery.”

    He noted that Adegbola’s installation appears to be an attempt to block the Laribikusi Ruling House’s chance to produce the new Eleruwa, despite a Supreme Court judgment in 2019.

    Prince Akinrinade urged the people of Eruwa, particularly the Omoni Royal Family and Laribikusi Ruling House, to maintain peace and avoid actions that could threaten their coexistence.

    He also encouraged them to have confidence in the judiciary and patiently wait for the outcome of court processes, assuring them that truth will prevail.