Flowerbud News

Author: Wale Owoade

  • Makinde Lauds Military, Says Security Drives Growth

    Makinde Lauds Military, Says Security Drives Growth

    Makinde Lauds Military, Says Security Drives Growth

     

    By Adewale Owoade

     

    Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has emphasised that no meaningful development can take place without a safe and secure environment.

     

    The governor made this known during the Chief of Army Staff Special Sallah Celebration with troops of the 2 Division Nigerian Army at the Forward Operating Base, Igbeti, in Olorunsogo Local Government Area of Oyo State.

    Makinde commended the troops for their sacrifices in maintaining peace and security in the state, noting that their efforts have positioned Oyo as one of the safest states in the country. He stressed the need to prioritise the welfare of military personnel in recognition of their service.

     

    “There is nothing that can take place if we don’t have a safe and secure environment. Without security, investments, trade and economic activities cannot thrive.

     

    “Even education would be affected, as parents cannot send their children to school in an atmosphere of insecurity. So, we cannot thank you enough for your sacrifices.

     

    “You are making sacrifices for us, and your welfare must be prioritised. As you keep us safe, we must ensure that your well-being is taken care of.”

    Makinde also appreciated the leadership of the Nigerian Army, including the Chief of Army Staff, for implementing policies and programmes aimed at improving troop welfare.

     

    Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, represented by Major General Nansak Shagaya, commended the officers and men of the division for their discipline, resilience and commitment, which he said have contributed to improved security in the area.

    He also expressed gratitude to President  Bola Tinubu for his continued support and leadership, describing it as a source of motivation for the Armed Forces.

    “Mr President’s strategic guidance remains a strong source of motivation as we carry out our constitutional responsibilities,” he said.

     

    In the same vein, the General Officer Commanding, 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, praised Governor Makinde for his consistent support to the Army and other security agencies over the years.

    He urged officers and soldiers to remain committed to the core values of the Nigerian Army and continue to justify the confidence reposed in them.

    “I want to commend every officer and soldier of 2 Division for a job well done. Continue to uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army and justify the confidence reposed in you by the COAS and the Nigerian People.

     

    “I thank the COAS once again for this thoughtful initiative. May I at this juncture appreciate Gov Makinde for his Once again continuous support to 2 Division and indeed other security agencies in Oyo State,” Nnebeife said.

     

    The event was attended by top military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other dignitaries, including the Onigbeti of Igbeti, Oba Bashir Olalekan Siyanbola IV.

  • Oba Ladoja Urges Oyo Indigenes to Enlist in Police.

    Oba Ladoja Urges Oyo Indigenes to Enlist in Police.

    ‎Oba Ladoja Urges Oyo Indigenes to Enlist in Police.
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    ‎By Adewale Owoade
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    ‎The Olubadan of Ibadanland and Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has urged eligible indigenes of the state to take advantage of the ongoing police constable recruitment exercise to join the Nigeria Police Force.
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    ‎The monarch made the call on Tuesday in Ibadan while receiving the Chairman of All Police Matters and South-West representative on the Police Service Commission, DIG Tunde Lakanu.
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    ‎Oba Ladoja stressed that the responsibilities of law enforcement agents are too critical to be ignored, noting that beyond apprehending offenders, the police play a vital role in maintaining law and order.
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    ‎He added that although his jurisdiction as Olubadan covers 11 local government areas, he would liaise with members of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs to ensure the message reaches all parts of the state.
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    ‎The monarch also pledged the support and cooperation of the Olubadan Advisory Council, line chiefs, Baales, Mogajis, and Iyalodes in mobilising grassroots participation.
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    ‎He further emphasised the importance of the media in driving awareness, urging sustained engagement across print, electronic, and social platforms.
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    ‎Earlier, DIG Lakanu disclosed that the Police Service Commission is currently recruiting 50,000 constables nationwide.
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    He, however, expressed concern over the low turnout from the South-West region and called for increased participation.
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    ‎Lakanu appealed to traditional rulers to help publicise the exercise at the grassroots, adding that communities stand to benefit more from improved local representation in the police force.
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    ‎He also hinted at the prospect of state policing in Nigeria, noting that it would enhance security when fully operational.
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  • Opeyori Urges Aspiring Badminton Players to Focus on Basics, Stay Consistent

    Opeyori Urges Aspiring Badminton Players to Focus on Basics, Stay Consistent

    Opeyori Urges Aspiring Badminton Players to Focus on Basics, Stay Consistent

     

    By Oluwaseyi Ogunwomoju-Oduneye

     

    Two-time Olympic badminton player, Anuoluwapo Opeyori, has urged aspiring players to remain focused, disciplined and consistent in order to succeed in the sport.

     

    Opeyori, who is based in the United States, said sustained improvement in badminton depends largely on a player’s commitment to training and ability to understand their development pattern.

     

    “Discipline and consistency are very important. Players must keep showing up and recognise their training patterns, otherwise improvement becomes difficult,” he said.

     

    He stressed that players must evaluate their performance regularly, maintain training intensity and develop the right mindset to excel.

     

    “Every shot counts in badminton. Beginners must understand what they are doing right or wrong and stay committed without giving up easily,” he added.

     

    The Olympian, who competed at both the 2020 Summer Olympics and the 2024 Summer Olympics, also served as Nigeria’s team captain and flag bearer during the parade of nations in Paris.

     

    Opeyori advised beginners to focus on mastering the basics rather than rushing into advanced techniques.

     

    “They should build a solid foundation—footwork, clear shots and basic drop shots. Smashing involves complex techniques and starting with it can damage their development,” he explained.

     

    “Badminton requires patience. It is not a sport you can master in a hurry.”

     

    Widely regarded as Africa’s most decorated male badminton player, Opeyori is a two-time African Games gold medallist and a men’s singles champion at the African Badminton Championships.

     

    Speaking on challenges facing Nigerian athletes, he identified inadequate funding, poor infrastructure and limited access to quality coaching as major setbacks.

     

    “Growing up in Nigeria requires survival skills. Sports need resources—equipment, facilities and manpower—but I focused on what I could control,” he said.

     

    Opeyori noted that his academic background in business management has helped him navigate his career effectively.

     

    Reflecting on his journey, he revealed that badminton came unexpectedly.

     

    “I didn’t start with a clear target. The sport came by coincidence after I initially considered gymnastics but didn’t continue due to impatience,” he said.

     

    He, however, recalled setting a personal goal ahead of the maiden International Lagos Classic in 2014 that no foreign player would defeat him on home soil—a target he successfully achieved.

     

    Now competing actively in the United States, Opeyori said access to better facilities and training partners has improved his performance.

     

    “I’m still active and open to representing Nigeria. The training environment here pushes me to work harder,” he said.

     

    He disclosed plans to compete in a Super 300 tournament in May, part of the Badminton World Federation World Tour, which features 11 events globally.

  • Yeye Shona-Aluko Urges Women to Stay Focused, Hardworking for Success.

    Yeye Shona-Aluko Urges Women to Stay Focused, Hardworking for Success.

    Yeye Shona-Aluko Urges Women to Stay Focused, Hardworking for Success.

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    ‎By Adewale Owoade

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    ‎An educationist, entrepreneur and philanthropist, Yeye (Dr.) Afolashade Shona-Aluko has urged women in society to remain focused, hardworking and confident, noting that they often have to work twice as hard as men to succeed in life.

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    ‎Yeye Shona-Aluko, who shared her life experiences as someone who rose from humble beginnings through God’s grace, resilience and hard work, said she never pursued a throne but rather that the throne found her as a result of her dedication and commitment.

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    ‎The Chief Executive Officer of DLA Children Playground Equipment and Toys Ltd. explained that her passion and commitment to education motivated her to venture into the supply of playground equipment and educational materials to schools across the country for more than 15 years.

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    ‎Because of her integrity and unblemished reputation, she has partnered with the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) and several State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs) to supply educational equipment and materials to schools in order to enhance teaching and learning nationwide.

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    ‎A philanthropist at heart, Yeye Shona-Aluko has also been using her God-given resources to support women, youths, children and persons with disabilities, helping to make life more meaningful and bearable for them.

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    ‎Her immense contributions to children’s education also earned her recognition from Ikeja Junior and Senior Secondary Schools, which honoured her with an award. She has equally been supporting children with special needs by paying the salaries of teachers handling their education.

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    ‎As the Yeye Bobajiro Oodua, she has empowered many women and youths through vocational training programmes such as tailoring, baking, hairdressing and other skills, with the aim of making beneficiaries self-reliant.

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    ‎Born in Kaduna over five decades ago, Yeye Afolashade Shona-Aluko embraced discipline and determination as guiding principles on her journey to greatness. She attended Queen Elizabeth School, Ilorin, Kwara State, before proceeding to the Federal College of Education, Kabuga, Kano State.

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    ‎Her pursuit of education was not without challenges, but resilience and perseverance paved the way for her academic success. She later advanced her studies at Ogun State University, Ago-Iwoye—now Olabisi Onabanjo University—where she earned a degree in Educational Management.

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    ‎Yeye Shona-Aluko began her professional career as a classroom teacher, where she earned a reputation for discipline and commitment to her students, many of whom are today excelling in various professions.

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    ‎Over the years, her remarkable contributions to education, entrepreneurship and humanitarian service have earned her numerous awards, honours, recognitions and a chieftaincy title from the throne of the revered monarch, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.

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    ‎She was installed as the Yeye Bobajiro Oodua in October 2025 by the Ooni of Ife at a colourful ceremony attended by dignitaries from across the globe. The ancient city of Ile-Ife, Osun State, witnessed a vibrant celebration on the installation day, which also boosted local economic activities.

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    ‎Among her numerous recognitions are the Philanthropist of the Year 2024 Award from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FRCN Ibadan Chapel; the 2023 Sterling Award from the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN); and the Lagos State Ministry of Education Award for her contributions to special education.

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    ‎She has also received the Ikeja High School Leadership Award for her dedication to teachers and students, as well as the Oodua Special Recognition Award (OSRA) 2024.

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    ‎Other honours include the Golden Star Award for Empowerment and Community Development from Security Watch Africa in Doha, Qatar, and the Award of Excellence on Human Development and Social Services from the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers.

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    ‎In 2025, Yeye Shona-Aluko received honorary doctorate degrees from European American University and Kingdom Life University, Florida, and she is also a Fellow of the Institute of Purchasing and Marketing Consultant.

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    ‎She currently serves as the National Matron of the Association of Female Artisans of Nigeria (AOFAW), an organisation with membership across all states of the federation.

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    ‎In recognition of her immense contributions to society and human development, she has been invited as a Special Guest of Honour to the Pan-Afrikan Drum Festival in Canada scheduled for July 2026. Earlier in June this year, she is also expected to receive the Silent Hero in Philanthropy Award.

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  • Family Clears Air on Deborah Fasoyin’s Alleged Death

    Family Clears Air on Deborah Fasoyin’s Alleged Death

    Family Clears Air on Deborah Fasoyin’s Alleged Death

     

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    ‎By Adewale Owoade.

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    ‎The family of veteran Nigerian gospel singer and evangelist, Deborah Adebola Fasoyin, has dismissed reports of her death circulating on social media, describing the claims as false.

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    ‎Rumours of the alleged death of the 86-year-old gospel icon began trending early Monday, sparking concern among fans and members of Nigeria’s gospel music community, with several online posts claiming the revered choir leader had passed away.

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    ‎However, a family member who spoke with journalists said the reports were unfounded, confirming that the veteran singer is alive and in good health.

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    ‎“The news is entirely fake. Mama is hale, hearty and healthy. There is no truth to the rumours,” the source said.

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    ‎Fasoyin is widely regarded as a pioneer of indigenous Yoruba gospel music. She rose to prominence as leader of the Good Women Choir of the Christ Apostolic Church, Ibadan.

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    ‎Born on March 1, 1940, in Oyo Town, she developed an early passion for music through her church choir.

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    ‎One of the choir’s most popular songs, Odun Nlo Sopin, became a household anthem played during end-of-year thanksgiving celebrations in many Nigerian homes.

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    ‎The choir has recorded over 25 albums, cementing Fasoyin’s legacy as one of Nigeria’s most influential gospel music figures.

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    ‎Her family urged the public to verify information before sharing it online to avoid unnecessary panic.

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    ‎“Mama is doing well. There is no cause for alarm,” the source added.

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  • Oba Ladoja Sustains 20-Year Charity, Distributes Food, Cash to over 5,000 Ibadan Residents ‎

    Oba Ladoja Sustains 20-Year Charity, Distributes Food, Cash to over 5,000 Ibadan Residents ‎

    Oba Ladoja Sustains 20-Year Charity, Distributes Food, Cash to over 5,000 Ibadan Residents
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    ‎By Adewale Owoade
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    ‎Over 5,000 residents of Ibadanland have benefitted from a Ramadan and Lent food package distributed by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja.
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    ‎Each beneficiary received cash, school bags for children and food items such as rice, beans, semovita, garri, maize and noodles during the distribution held at the monarch’s private residence in Bodija, Ibadan.
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    ‎Speaking while presenting the annual Ramadan/Lent packages, Oba Ladoja said the gesture was part of his commitment to giving back to society and supporting the less privileged.
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    ‎The monarch, who was represented by his wife, Rashidat Olayinka Ladoja, noted that the initiative had been sustained for about 20 years.
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    ‎She said, “Baba Ladoja has been doing this for the past 20 years, but this is the first time we are organising it since he ascended the throne as the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
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    ‎“So, it is not different from what we have been doing before. The only difference is that the number of beneficiaries is larger this year.
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    ‎“Last year, we distributed to about 5,000 people. This year, the beneficiaries are more than 5,000. We thank God the arrangement has been hitch-free and orderly.”
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    ‎She added that Oba Ladoja had always prioritised the welfare of the people throughout his years of public service as a senator, former governor and now as the Olubadan of Ibadanland.
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    ‎Ramadan, observed by Muslims worldwide, is marked by fasting, prayer and acts of charity, while Lent is a period of reflection, sacrifice and generosity among Christians.
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    ‎Community leaders and beneficiaries at the event commended the monarch for sustaining the programme over the years.
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    ‎Some beneficiaries said the food items and financial support would help ease the burden on their households at a time when many families are grappling with rising food prices.
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    ‎The distribution exercise forms part of Oba Ladoja’s broader humanitarian efforts aimed at supporting the less privileged and strengthening social bonds among residents of Ibadanland, regardless of religious affiliation.
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  • Oyo FCC Commissioner Pledges Equity, Inclusiveness in Public Service

    Oyo FCC Commissioner Pledges Equity, Inclusiveness in Public Service

    Oyo FCC Commissioner Pledges Equity, Inclusiveness in Public Service

     

    By Adewale Owoade.

     

    The Federal Character Commissioner representing Oyo State, Prince Ayodeji Abass-Aleshinloye, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Character Commission (FCC) to ensuring that no section of the country feels marginalised in governance and public administration.

     

    Abass-Aleshinloye gave the assurance during a press conference and inaugural meeting with staff of the Commission in Oyo State.

     

    He emphasised that the Federal Character principle remains a vital instrument for promoting national unity, integration and inclusiveness in Nigeria’s diverse society.

    “The Federal Character principle remains one of the pillars for promoting unity, national integration and inclusiveness in our diverse nation. It ensures that no section of the country feels marginalised and that every state and region has a sense of belonging in the governance and administration of our great nation.

     

    “We will not relent in our efforts to ensure that recruitment, appointments, promotions, infrastructure, policy implementation and other opportunities in the public service reflect the diversity of our country and adhere strictly to the guidelines laid down by the Commission,” he said.

     

    The Commissioner also assured the people of Oyo State that their interests would continue to be adequately represented at the Commission. He stressed that efforts would be sustained to ensure the state receives its fair share of federal opportunities while upholding merit and professionalism in public service.

     

    “Specifically, I want to assure the good people of Oyo State that their interests and concerns remain well represented at the Commission, while also encouraging merit, competence, and professionalism in public service.

     

    “At this time in our national journey, it is important for all stakeholders—government institutions, political leaders, civil society organizations, and citizens—to support policies and initiatives that promote fairness, transparency, and national cohesion.”

    Addressing staff of the Commission in the state, Abass-Aleshinloye described their role as critical to the effective implementation of the Commission’s policies and urged them to remain professional, dedicated and transparent in the discharge of their duties.

    Earlier, the State Director of the Commission in Oyo State, Mr Muyiwa Babanumi, thanked the Commissioner for the visit and pledged the staff’s cooperation towards achieving greater success.

  • ‘He Shot Me in My Dream’ — Man Accused of Killing Brother.

    ‘He Shot Me in My Dream’ — Man Accused of Killing Brother.

    ‘He Shot Me in My Dream’ — Man Accused of Killing Brother.

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    ‎By Adewale Owoade.

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    ‎The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a 43-year-old man, Lateef Suleiman, for allegedly killing his elder brother in Sepeteri, Saki East Local Government.

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    ‎The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Ayanlade Olayinka, disclosed this in a statement made available to journalists.

    ‎According to the statement, the incident was reported at the Ago-Amodu Divisional Police Headquarters by one Badmus Yunisa of Alegunlode Compound.

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    ‎Police said the suspect allegedly attacked his 52-year-old brother, Mustapha Amidu, after accusing him of shooting him in a dream while he slept the previous night.

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    ‎The suspect was said to have approached the deceased while he was seated, picked up a heavy rock, struck him on the head, and fled the scene.

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    ‎The victim was rushed to Ileri Oluwa Hospital for treatment but was later confirmed dead by the attending doctor.

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    ‎Following the report, police operatives led by the Divisional Police Officer visited both the crime scene and the hospital as part of preliminary investigations.

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    ‎The suspect was subsequently arrested and reportedly confessed to the crime. He is currently cooperating with investigators.

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    ‎The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, Femi Haruna, has ordered the transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation.

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    ‎The Command assured residents that the case would be thoroughly investigated and that justice would be pursued in accordance with the law.

  • Consensus Wins as Oyo APC Installs New State Executive.

    Consensus Wins as Oyo APC Installs New State Executive.

    Consensus Wins as Oyo APC Installs New State Executive.

     

    By  Adewale Owoade

     

    The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced new State Executive, as

    Former Deputy Governor, Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo, the new State Chairman.

     

    The announcement was made at the party’s State Congress held at the Liberty Stadium, Oke Ado, Ibadan, presided over by Alhaji Fatai Ibikunle.

     

    Speaking at the event, Oyo State Renewed Hope Ambassador, Hon. Teslim Folarin; the lawmakers representing Ido/Ibarapa Federal Constituency, Hon. Aderemi Oseni and Egbeda/Ona-Ara federal, Hon. Akin Alabim, said the party adopted a consensus arrangement to produce its state executive.

     

    They described the move as a testament to fairness, equity and inclusiveness, following the ward and local government congresses.

     


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    ‎”Before we started the congresses, we leaders met and we agreed on two things – One, that we would allow leaders to emerge organically, and I want to commend all the leaders for respecting that.

     

    “ We also agreed that we would not interfere with the results and also that we’ve done,” Teslim said
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    ‎”Today is the conclusion of the whole programme, as far as the state is concerned, today is our state congress, now you can see that our wards and Local government congresses went peacefully.

     

    “Today again, you could see that no crisis, nobody knows that we are even doing congress, because that is the product of what we call consensus arrangement,” Oseni  said
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    ‎”This time around you can see that the party is united, all tendencies are together, that can only mean one thing, we are going into 2027 united, with full force and we are going to win,” Alabi stated.
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    The newly elected state executive members are:

    Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo – Chairman

    Dr. Taofeek Lamidi – Deputy Chairman

    Barr. Fatai Adesina – Secretary

    Hon. Lukman Owonikoko – Assistant Secretary

    Dr. Joshua Oyebamiji – Oyo Central Senatorial Chairman

    Hon. Mojeed Delesolu – Oyo South Senatorial Chairman

    Hon. Tunde Oloyede – Oyo North Senatorial Chairman

    Barr. Aborisade Sunday – Legal Adviser

    Hon. Saheed Adeagbo – Assistant Legal Adviser

    Hon. Lateef Ajiboye – Treasurer

    Hon. Saliu Dauda Adisa – Assistant Treasurer

    Hon. Akanbi Tunde – Financial Secretary

    Hon. Wale Adebayo – Assistant Financial Secretary

    Hon. Remi Adepoju – Organising Secretary

    Chief Jide Leke – Assistant Organising Secretary

    Hon. Olawale Sadare – Publicity Secretary

    Fafunmi Mathew – Assistant Publicity Secretary

    Kamaldeen Nageri – Assistant Welfare Officer

    Mrs. Tinuade Adigun – Auditor

    Hon. Christopher Idowu – Assistant Auditor

    Mrs. Felicia Opatunde – Women Leader

    Hon. Fatima Hassan – Deputy Women Leader

    Hon. Glory Olalekan – Youth Leader

    Hon. Sayo Fatoki – Assistant Youth Leader

    Jimoh Osundare – Leader, Persons with Disabilities

    Olalekan Olowe – Oyo South Senatorial Youth Leader

    Imran Ayinde Olona – Oyo North Senatorial Youth Leader.

    Oloja Olanrewaju – Oyo Central Senatorial Youth Leader.

    Mrs. Oyebode Yetunde – Oyo North Senatorial Women Leader

    Mrs. Adefunke Adeoye – Oyo Central Senatorial Women Leader

    Mrs. Mojibade Adetona – Oyo South Senatorial Women Leader

    Akanmu Adebowale – Ex-Officio

    Ejalonibu Fatai Aremu – Ex-Officio

    Asimiyu Kolawole – Ex-Officio

    Odeyemi Simon Oladoyinbo – Ex-Officio

     

    Meanwhile, the reappointed Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Olawale  Sadare noted that unity, love and focus had been restored within the party.

    “What happened here today is an eloquent testimony to the fact that our party has returned to the path of peace, harmony and tranquility,” Sadare said

     

    The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, described the congress peaceful and brief, drew leaders, former and serving public office holders, and party members from all 33 local government areas of the state.(NAN)