Flowerbud News

Tag: Osun

  • Osun 2026: Between Performance and Packaging

    Osun 2026: Between Performance and Packaging

    By Akano Kolobo
    As the countdown to the 2026 governorship election in Osun State gathers momentum, the political atmosphere is becoming saturated with familiar patterns—carefully crafted narratives, selective projections, and the age-old attempt to sell “newness” as a substitute for tested leadership.

    In recent weeks, attention has been drawn to the emerging profile of Bola Oyebamiji, a technocrat whose supporters have worked tirelessly to frame as the face of competence and fiscal discipline.

    On paper, it is an attractive proposition. In practice, however, governance is rarely a spreadsheet exercise.

    The fundamental question before the people of Osun is not who has the most polished résumé, but who has demonstrated the capacity to govern in real time, under real pressures, and with real consequences for ordinary citizens.

    Governor Ademola Adeleke may not fit the conventional mould of a technocratic administrator, but politics—especially at the subnational level—is not an abstract theory. It is about roads that are built, salaries that are paid, pensions that are cleared, and communities that feel seen.

    There is a growing tendency among sections of the political elite to underestimate the intelligence of voters by assuming that governance can be reduced to jargon—“fiscal discipline,” “institutional efficiency,” “data-driven systems.” These are important, no doubt, but they are tools, not ends in themselves..

    The renewed attempt to repackage opposition figures within the All Progressives Congress as technocratic saviours must therefore be interrogated. Where were these ideas when they had the opportunity to shape policy outcomes? What measurable difference did they make when entrusted with public responsibility?

    Elections are ultimately about trust. And trust is not built in conference rooms or policy seminars; it is earned in the daily interaction between leaders and the led.
    Much has also been made of the governor’s political realignment with the Accord Party.

    Critics see this as a vulnerability. I see it differently. In a political system often defined by rigid party lines, the ability to build coalitions across divides may well prove to be a strategic advantage.
    Let us be clear: Osun does not need a contest between “noise” and “numbers,” as some would frame it. What it needs is a sober evaluation of continuity versus experimentation.
    Continuity, in this context, is not about stagnation. It is about consolidating gains, refining policies, and deepening impact. Experimentation, on the other hand, carries risks—especially when it is driven more by perception than by proven capacity.
    As the campaigns intensify, voters must resist the temptation to be swayed by glossy projections and instead focus on verifiable outcomes.

    The future of Osun State cannot be outsourced to promises alone.
    In the end, democracy offers a simple but profound choice: do you retain a leadership that has delivered within the limits of its mandate, or do you gamble on potential wrapped in presentation?
    For me, the answer lies not in packaging, but in performance.

    (Akano Kolobo
    Writes in from Apena Compound
    Ede, Osun State.)

  • Group Raises Concern Over INEC’s Moves in Osun

    Group Raises Concern Over INEC’s Moves in Osun

     

    By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo

    The Coalition for Civic and National Consciousness (CCNC) has raised concerns over the transfer of the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Osun State, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, to Ondo State, warning that the development could have serious implications for the credibility of the forthcoming elections.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday, and signed by its spokesperson, Comrade Raufu Sodiq (Oluomo Success), alongside Secretary Comrade Tobest and Chairman Comrade Musa Akinkunmi, the group described the action as one that calls for public scrutiny.

    “The transfer of the Osun Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, to Ondo State, alongside the reported plan to redeploy technical staff across local government offices in Osun State, is an administrative action with significant political consequences,” the statement said.

    While acknowledging the powers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to redeploy its personnel, the group maintained that such powers must be exercised with caution.

    “Administrative discretion does not exist in a vacuum.

    When timing, context, and precedent converge, such discretion inevitably becomes a matter for public scrutiny within a democratic system,” it stated.

    The group expressed concern over the timing of the transfer, describing it as “late-hour” and capable of undermining institutional neutrality. It warned that the reported redeployment of technical staff across the state further heightens fears about the integrity of the electoral process.

    According to the statement, reports suggest that the transfer of the REC may have been triggered by a petition. The group, however, questioned whether due process was followed.

    “If this is the case, then due process demands answers,” it said, asking whether any investigative panel was set up, its composition, and the outcome of its findings.

    “To act on an allegation without proper investigation is to convert petition into policy,” the group added, warning that such a move could open the door for undue influence on electoral management.

    The CCNC emphasised the critical role of the REC in election planning and execution, noting that the office serves as the “operational anchor” for activities such as BVAS configuration, polling unit mapping, training of ad-hoc staff, and custody of sensitive materials. It stressed that removing key officials at a crucial period could destabilise the process.

    “To remove both the operational anchor and institutional memory at such a critical period is to risk destabilising the electoral process,” the statement read.

    The group also questioned the urgency of the decision, suggesting that if the allegations against the REC were weighty, suspension pending investigation would have been more appropriate.

    “If they are not, then any administrative action could reasonably have been deferred until after the election to preserve neutrality,” it added.

    Concerns were also raised about the newly deployed REC to Osun State.
    The group noted that there have been “reported concerns and controversies in past assignments,” urging INEC to exercise caution in appointments that could affect public confidence.

    Citing relevant provisions of the Constitution, the group acknowledged INEC’s legal authority to manage its personnel but insisted that legitimacy must be tied to transparency and fairness.

    “While this power is legal, its legitimacy depends on transparent, impartial, and publicly defensible exercise,” the statement said.

    The group further warned that the development could set a dangerous precedent if not properly addressed.

    “If a petition without transparent investigation can trigger the transfer of a Resident Electoral Commissioner today, it raises a troubling precedent,” it said, adding that such actions could lead to arbitrary changes in key electoral personnel close to elections.

    The CCNC called for the immediate publication of the petition against Dr. Agboke and any investigative findings, as well as the suspension of the transfer and redeployment of technical staff until after the elections.

    It also demanded full disclosure of the service record of the newly posted REC and the establishment of clear guidelines to prevent last minute transfers of key electoral officials.
    The group warned that failure to address its concerns could lead to further action.

    “If our demands are not met, we will have no choice than to use the last C of aluta, which is confrontation,” it stated.

    Reaffirming its position, the group noted that “INEC does not own elections; it holds them in trust on behalf of the Nigerian people,” urging the commission to act in a manner that strengthens public confidence in the electoral process.

    (Courtesy: Osun Spring)

  • OPINION: Why Ede Still Stands With Adeleke

    OPINION: Why Ede Still Stands With Adeleke

     

    By Waliu Adetokun

    The recent appointment of the former speaker of Osun state House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Adejare Bello has sparked conversations in political circles across Osun State. In a political environment where every development is often interpreted through a political viewpoint, some have suggested that the appointment could alter the political dynamics within Ede.

    However, a closer look at the mood within the town suggests otherwise.

    Ede remains firmly united in its support for Governor Ademola Adeleke, whose leadership continues to command significant goodwill among many residents.

    Ede has long been recognized as a politically oriented community.Its people are not strangers to political strategies, alignments, or attempts to influence public perception.

    Because of this awareness, many residents tend to assess political developments not by speculation but by their real impact on governance and community development.

    This explains why the suggestion that Adejare Bello’s appointment could divide Ede has not gained meaningful ground among the people.Political appointments may carry symbolic value, but they rarely determine the collective political direction of a community that already has a clear understanding of its interest.A common Yoruba expression captures this sentiment, “Omo wa gba feeder appointment.”

    In essence, the saying reflects the belief that while individuals may receive appointments, the broader political conviction of the community remains guided by its own collective judgement.For many in Ede, the conversation is less about political maneuvering and more about governance.

    Since assuming office, Governor Adeleke has pursued policies ,aimed at infrastructure renewal, improved welfare for workers, and development initiatives across Osun State.

    These efforts have helped strengthen the relationship between and the administration and grassroots communities.

    In politics, performance often speaks louder than strategy.Where people see tangible improvements in governance and leadership that appears accessible, loyalty tends to follow naturally.This reality continues to shape public sentiment in Ede.It is also important to recognize that communities like Ede rarely respond positively to attempts at political division.

    Historically, the town has demonstrated a tendency to rally around leadership it believes is working in the interest of the people.As the 2026 governoship election approaches, political actors will undoubtedly continue to test different strategies to win public support.

    Yet the ultimate decision will rest with the electorate, whose judgement is often influenced by their lived experiences under a particular administration.For many residents of Ede, those experiences under Governor Adeleke have created a sense of confidence in the direction of governance in Osun State.

    Whether through public discourse or eventually through the ballot, the people of Ede are expected to make their position clear.If current sentiments are any indication, the town’s message may well centre on continuity of governance, continuity of development, and continuity of leadership they believe has remained connected to the grassroots.As always a democracy, the final verdict will come from the people.

    Courtesy: Osun Spring

  • Osun Government Clarifies Position On Local Government Salaries, Says LG Workers paid as at when Due

    Osun Government Clarifies Position On Local Government Salaries, Says LG Workers paid as at when Due

     

     

    • Explains Status Of ₦230 Billion Withheld Allocation

     

    By Flowerbudnews
    The Osun State Government says it has taken note of recent public commentaries concerning the status of local government workers’ salaries, particularly claims suggesting that salaries are not being paid due to the hijacking of local government allocations.

    Such narratives misrepresent the facts surrounding the financial situation of the local government system in Osun State.

    In a statement issued on Tuesday Morning, the Commissioner for Information and public enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi stated unequivocally that “there has been no interruption in the payment of core salaries to local government workers. Salaries are being paid fully and as at when due.

    “Despite the hijacking of local government allocations for almost a year, funds now totaling approximately ₦230 billion, the Osun State Government under Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke has sustained salary payments through the state’s resources. This intervention has ensured financial stability for workers and shielded families from avoidable hardship” he declared.

    However, he added that “the continued hijacking of the ₦230 billion allocation has directly impacted the payment of certain allowances and supplementary entitlements ordinarily funded from those statutory allocations. These obligations are structurally tied to funds accruing to the local government system and cannot be fully accommodated in the absence of those resources.

    The hijacked funds were meant to support grassroots administration, development initiatives, operational responsibilities, and worker-related benefits at the local level. Without access to these allocations, the financial structure designed to support allowances and additional entitlements has been significantly constrained.

    Oluomo Alimi reiterates that “while allowances and other supplementary payments have been affected by the withheld funds, salaries remain consistent and uninterrupted. Clear distinctions must be maintained to ensure public understanding is guided by facts.

    “The welfare of workers remains a priority, as demonstrated by the state government’s decision to sustain salary payments despite substantial financial challenges” he concluded.

     

  • Osun:  Citizens Lament Federal Govt. seizure of Local Govt. Statutory Allocation 

    Osun:  Citizens Lament Federal Govt. seizure of Local Govt. Statutory Allocation 

     

     

    – Teachers, Nurses, and Retirees in Osun Are Forced to Beg, Borrow, and Starve for 12 Months as ₦130 Billion in Local Funds Lies Frozen in Federal Government Accounts

     

    By Flowerbudnews

    Thousands of local government workers in Osun State have gone over 12 months without salaries or pensions after more than ₦130 billion in federal allocations meant for the state’s 30 local government areas was frozen in March 2025 following a political dispute.

    Those affected include teachers, nurses, healthcare workers, council staff, and retirees. Many say they now survive on borrowing, family support, and personal debt.

    “We are working but not being paid. We borrow to eat. Some of us cannot feed our families anymore,” one council worker said.

    Families have struggled to pay rent, school fees, and medical bills. Some workers say their children have stopped attending school because they cannot afford fees.

    Retirees, who depend entirely on pensions, say they have been left with nothing.

    “We served for years. Now we are abandoned. We depend on others to survive,” a retired worker said.

    The crisis began after disputed local government elections in February 2025, which created a leadership conflict between officials aligned with Governor Ademola Adeleke and opposition figures. Federal authorities froze the allocations, citing unresolved legal disputes over legitimate leadership.

    In December 2025, the Supreme Court ruled that withholding the funds was unconstitutional, but the allocations remain frozen.

    Workers say they have sold belongings, taken loans, and accumulated debt just to survive.

    “We have no income for one year. We are suffering,” another worker said.

    The Osun State Government has repeatedly called for the release of the funds, warning that the freeze has crippled local government operations and worsened economic conditions across communities.

    With no resolution so far, thousands of workers remain unpaid, with no clear timeline for when salaries and pensions will resume.

  • Breaking:  PDP has no Candidate in Osun governorship election – INEC announces

    Breaking:  PDP has no Candidate in Osun governorship election – INEC announces

     

     

    The Independent National Electoral Commission has released the personal particulars of candidates and their running mates for the upcoming governorship election in Osun State with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) missing.

    This was seen from the content of a statement issued on Sunday by INEC’s Public Affairs Officer in Osun State, Musa Olurode.

    The statement, on behalf of the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, confirmed that 14 political parties successfully uploaded the names and required documents of their candidates within the stipulated timeframe.

    “The submission followed the conclusion of party primaries and the closure of the designated portal for uploading candidates’ particulars,” the statement said.

    The qualifying parties are Accord (A), Action Alliance (AA), African Action Congress (AAC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Action Democratic Party (ADP), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), All Progressives Congress (APC), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Action Peoples Party (APP), Boot Party (BP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Young Progressives Party (YPP), and Zenith Labour Party (ZLP).

    The PDP, which produced the incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke, however missing in the published list.

    INEC said the list was released from its headquarters in Abuja after verifying that all submissions met constitutional and regulatory requirements.

    The publication was carried out in accordance with Section 29(3) of the Electoral Act 2022 and Item 4 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the Osun State Governorship Election.

    The Commission noted that copies of each candidate’s Form EC9, academic credentials, and other supporting documents will be displayed at its state office and all local government offices.

    The documents will be available for inspection from Monday, 16 February 2026, at the state office, all 30 local government area offices, and the Area Office in Osun State.

    “The Commission hereby notifies political parties and the general public that fourteen political parties have successfully complied with the requirements within the stipulated timeframe,” the statement added.

    INEC advised political parties, candidates, and members of the public to inspect the published documents as provided by law and clarified that only the fourteen listed parties are eligible to participate in the forthcoming governorship election, having met the necessary conditions within the prescribed period.

    Meanwhile, Dr. Agboke reassured stakeholders of the Commission’s commitment to transparency and professionalism.

    “The Commission remains firmly committed to the conduct of credible elections in accordance with the law and best democratic practices,” he said.

    The election is fixed for August 8, 2026, while political campaigns are slated to kick off on March 11, 2026.

     

  • Osun: 5 PDP Reps, Senators formally defect to APC

    Osun: 5 PDP Reps, Senators formally defect to APC

     

    By Victor Adeoti
    Osogbo:   Five members of the National Assembly elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the defectors are Sen. Francis Fadahunsi (Osun East), Sen. Olubiyi Fadeyi (Osun Central), Omirin Olusanya (Ijesa South Federal Constituency), Wole Oke (Ijesa North Federal Constituency), and Taofeek Ajilesoro (Ife Central Federal Constituency).

    They were received by party officials, members and supporters in Osogbo.

    The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, said that in the APC, there are no strangers, adding that the arrival of the defectors would strengthen the party’s resolve to reclaim the state and restore dignity to governance.

    “We are gathered not just to receive our new members, but to affirm a shared conviction — that the sure path to prosperity, stability, and visionary leadership lies in the All Progressives Congress.

    “In the APC, there are no strangers — we are one united family. Your arrival strengthens our resolve to reclaim Osun and restore dignity to governance,” he said.

    Oyetola also said that the achievements of President Bola Tinubu since assuming office had laid a solid foundation for Nigeria’s rebirth.

    “That is why we proudly and confidently endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in 2027 — to consolidate these gains and secure lasting prosperity,” he said.
    Oyetola urged members of the party to work towards the victory of the APC in the Aug. 8 governorship election in the state.

    “At home, the 2026 governorship election is fast approaching. Our mission is clear: reclaim Osun and return it to serious, people-focused governance.

    “We will build a state where schools and hospitals function effectively, infrastructure is durable, youth and small businesses are empowered, and governance is transparent and accountable.

    “But victory will come only through unity, hard work, and grassroots mobilisation. So I charge you: return to your communities, wards and polling units.

    “Tell our people that the light of progress has returned to Osun. Tell them the APC is stronger, united, and determined.

    “Together, we will reclaim Osun on Aug. 8. Together, we will re-elect President Tinubu in 2027. Together, we will secure a brighter future for our children,” he said.

    The APC Chairman in the state, Tajudeen Lawal, said that the defection of the PDP members would no doubt translate into the strengthening of the party and the realisation of APC’s success in the Aug. 8 governorship election in the state, as well as the victory of President Tinubu in 2027.

    Lawal also said there would be no discrimination in access to political opportunities, irrespective of the time of joining the party, in line with the tradition of the APC.

    Similarly, the APC governorship candidate in the state, Mr Bola Oyebamiji, urged party members to unite ahead of the 2026 and 2027 elections.

    “Dear party leaders, party members and supporters, as we look toward the 2026 and 2027 elections, unity within our ranks is non-negotiable.
    “The progressive family in Osun must stand as one. Our leaders, youths, men and women, and all grassroots mobilisers must continue to work together with a singular objective to return our state to a path of growth, accountability, and inclusive development.

    “Your decision to formally join us today reinforces the momentum we are building and sends a strong signal that the future belongs to those who are prepared to act decisively and responsibly,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

  • Adeleke Reaffirms Commitment to Growth and Development of Cooperative Societies in Osun

    Adeleke Reaffirms Commitment to Growth and Development of Cooperative Societies in Osun

    (Gov. Ademola Adeleke)

     

    (Haj Ganiyu Tiamiyu commended Gov. Ademola Adeleke’s commitment to the overall economic growth of Osun State)

     

    (Hon commissioner for Cooperative and Empowerment, Prince Bayo Ogungbaungbe,delivering the governor ‘s address with Hon Lukuman Oyekola Afolabi standing with him)

     

    (Hon Ayinde with president General, Haj Tajudeen Isiaq Adekilekun)

    By Olabisi Kazeem ( Imam Ailaka)

    Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the growth and development of Cooperative societies in Osun by providing enabling legislation, financial support and capacity building initiatives.

    (Hon Ayinde at the function)

     


    (President General with some members of the society)

    Senator Adeleke, who was represented by the Osun State Commissioner for Cooperative and Empowerment, Prince Bayo Ogungbaungbe, gave the assurance on Saturday during the 2nd Annual anniversary of ADEKILEKUN OTITOLOJU COOPERATIVE SOCIETY in Ede.

    (These are: Alhajis Hameed Olagoke, Abideen Abiodun Olagoke and Hon Lukuman Afolabi)

     

    Hon Ogungbaungbe said Governor Adeleke led administration in the state, has always commited to combat poverty and assist Cooperative societies in reclaiming their previous influence.

    In his welcome address, the chairman Board of the committee OTITOLOJU COOPERATIVE SOCIETY, Alhaji Abdul Ganiy Amoo Tiamiyu emphasized the importance of Cooperative societies by recognizing them as associations and enterprises through which citizens can enhance their lives while contributing to the economic, social, cultural and political development of their community, state and the nation.

     

    Hon. Ganiyu Amoo  Tiamiyu, a serving Commissioner in the state Education Board, (SUBEB) lauded the commitment of the president and it’s executive members for their steadfastness and transparent manners in their dealings with members all the time.

    This, according to him, reflected on the society ‘s achievements and lauded the commitment of members in fostering mutual support, particularly in the area of timely loan disbursement. He narrated.

    The event held at AHMADIYA COLLEGE, Ede was well attended by top management staff of the commission, Representatives of Osun State Ministry of Commerce and Cooperative services.

    (Items distributed for the diligent cooperators)

     

    In his speech, the president General of Ede Otitoloju Cooperative society, Alh Tajudeen Isiaq Adekilekun expressed immense gratitude to Almighty ALLAH and all cooperators for their resilience, unwavering supports and dedication.

    Comrade Tajudeen said that the journey was started by ten members two years ago but today, with our little efforts and determination to succeed this is what God has done.

    “I want to emphasize out the total commitment to the ideas of Cooperative business through meaningful engagement of all members, with a view to further repositioning the society.

    (President General, Haj Tajudeen Isiaq Adekilekun speaking at the colourful event)

     

    In his own assertion, a member, Federal House of reps Hon Bamidele Salaam encouraged cooperators to utilize their loans wisely and explore viable investment opportunities considering the economic situation of the country.

    Hon Salaam who was represented by Alhaji Hameed Olagoke said :”Given the prevailing economic situation of the country, it is essential for Otitoloju Cooperative and societies to promote sound financial stewardship among it’s members by encouraging cooperators to utilize their loans judiciously and seek out viable and sustainable investment opportunities.

    Alhaji Olagoke, a veteran politician who was one time an honourable member representing IWOYE Constituency, Egbedore Local Government reminded the gathering how Hon Bamidele Salaam started women cooperative in Ejigbo some years back with just sixty members.

    He added that at the end of the year, fifty seven of the members who used the loan judiciously came to return the money but as their patriotism seen by Hon Salaam, he let them to go with the money.

    He seized the opportunity to announce the sum of one hundred thousand Naira donated by Hon Salaam as his contribution to develop the initiative of ADEKILEKUN OTITOLOJU cooperative movement.

    Hon Afolabi Lukuman Oyekola, the executive chairman,. Ede South Local Government while delivering the goodwill message of Yeyeluwa Modupeola Adeleke expressed delight to Adekilekun Otitoloju for establishing an empowerment institution like to curb hardship ravaging the nation.

    According to him, it would serve as a relief for the cooperators to take care of themselves at this critical period when our grassroot administration in Osun State was facing maltreatment from evils of good governance of Governor Ademola Adeleke.

    He said Yeyeluwa was not here personally today due to her tight schedules but directed me to announce on her behalf the donation of a BUS vehicle to your society as her own contribution for now.

    He used the occasion to admonish the gathering to use their electoral power for Governor Adeleke comes August 8, to continue his efficient, fruitful and smooth service delivery across the entire state.

    According to him “it’s imperative that all financial decisions are informed by a clear understanding of the country ‘s current economic conditions, ensuring that our strategies remain both responsive and resilient in the face of national and global challenges”, he concluded.

    Another Speaker at the occasion, Hon Haseem Adebowale,who was one time Director of Ede informal Sector, C.I.C.U Limited, commended the Adekilekun Otitoloju Cooperative Society for it’s transparency and diligence. He Urged members to strictly adhere to the society ‘s laid down rules and regulations.

    Hon Hasheem who was one time a Director of Ede informal Sector, CICU Limited called on all Cooperative leaders to emulate Adekilekun Otitoloju in their day to day dealings with their members.

    In another development, Alhaji Aabideen Abiodun Olagoke popularly known as Abbey ASIAWO commended governor Ademola Adeleke for his visionary leadership by providing enabling environment for Cooperative society to thrive.

    Alh Abiodun who represented MD/ CEO, Osun State Investment Company Limited, OSICOL, Alhaji Taofeeq Kolawole Alimi expressed delight by seeing more women in Adekilekun Otitoloju Cooperative society, was a testament that “the group is doing well and really adding sustainable value to the state as women normally prioritize home management in everything they get from their economic activities.

    He used the occasion to admonish the executive committee of the group to patronize OSICOL products particularly ESSENCE TABLE WATER as the company is state sponsored and adding value to the economy of the state especially through job creation, he concluded.

    Top government functionaries present included Permanent Secretary on Education Alhaji M.A.K Jimoh; S.S.A to the governor on Cooperative and Empowerment Alhaja Funke Adebayo; S.S.A Lasiariyu Salami and others.

    Other present were Alhaji kholeed Babatunde OIabode, Alhaji Ismael Olayiwola Barrister Dhokrullai Adewale among others.The event was adequately anchored by famous radio presenter, Prince Adeyemi Olabode.

  • Osun Speaker speaks on letter removing Ooni as Oba’s council permanent chairman

     

    The Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, has dismissed a letter said to be awaiting approval of the lawmakers, authorising rotational chairmanship for the Osun Council of Obas.

    This was contained in a statement signed and released by the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Olamide Tiamiyu on Monday.

    Egbedun said a Facebook account with the name ‘Ashiwaju Omo Yoruba’ had said the Assembly had received a letter concerning the rotation of chairmanship among traditional rulers in Osun State.

    The lawmaker, who said, “Office of the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly unequivocally dismisses as false and misleading the publication circulated by a pseudo Facebook page operating under the name ‘Ashiwaju Omo Yoruba,” insisted that he did not authorise any letter authorising rotational chairmanship among Osun Obas.

    “At no time did the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adewale Olumide Egbedun received or authorised any letter concerning the rotation of chairmanship among traditional rulers in Osun State, nor was any such matter presented or contemplated before the House or its Committee on Chieftaincy Matters.

    “The claim is entirely fabricated and does not reflect the legislative activities or records of the Assembly. This pseudo Facebook page is clearly engaged in deliberate mischief, spreading unfounded information with the intent to mislead the public, provoke unnecessary tension, and undermine the credibility of the Osun State House of Assembly,” Egbedun said.

    He said it was irresponsible to circulate a post that attempted to exploit sensitive traditional and cultural issues for ulterior motives, noting that “The Speaker strongly condemns this conduct and reiterates that the Assembly conducts its affairs strictly in line with constitutional provisions and established legislative procedures.”

    He urged members of the public, particularly Osun people, to disregard the publication in its entirety, saying, “Only statements issued through the official and verified channels of the Osun State House of Assembly should be considered authentic.”

    Clarifications by the Osun Assembly came at a time when the dust raised by the inauguration of the reconstituted Oyo State Council of Obas, which introduced rotational chairmanship, was yet to settle.

    Governor Seyi Makinde inaugurated a new Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs in Ibadan, with the chairmanship set to rotate among three leading traditional rulers in the state.

    The inauguration, which took place at the House of Chiefs Hall, State Secretariat, Ibadan, saw the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Arusa I, emerge as the inaugural chairman of the council for a two-year term.

    However, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, one of the foremost monarchs in the state, was conspicuously absent from the event.

    The inauguration followed the passage of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs (Further Amendments) Bill, 2025, by the Oyo State House of Assembly, a move aimed at strengthening traditional institutions in the state.