Flowerbud News

Tag: Osun

  • Presenting Chief Architect of Half Salaries as a Youth-Friendly Candidate Is Political Mockery

    Presenting Chief Architect of Half Salaries as a Youth-Friendly Candidate Is Political Mockery

     

    (Gov. Ademola Adeleke of Osun State)

     

    –  APC Should Seek Forgiveness, Not Attempt Manipulation

     

    By  Mallam Olawale Rasheed,

    Oshogbo (FLOWERBUDNEWS):  It is important to remind the All Progressives Congress (APC) that Osun youths are not politically naive, emotionally detached, or historically amnesic. They remember clearly how the state was under APC’s failed government, how their homes suffered, and who the helmsman was over that period of pain.

    The recent attempt by the APC and its governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, to parade familiar promises of a “youth-friendly government” is therefore not only hollow, it is insulting. Presenting one of the chief architects of the half-salary era as a youth-friendly candidate is irrefutably political mockery of the highest order.

    The gallery of history has shown that Osun youths do not vote based on slogans or manipulative statements. They vote from lived experience. They remember the era when payment of salaries were neglected, when pensioners were abandoned, and when parents could not plan their lives. They remember the anxiety in their homes when school fees became a burden and survival became a daily struggle.

    That period did lasting damage. When parents were unpaid or underpaid, the burden shifted to young people. When pensioners were ignored, they became unintended liabilities on their children. Many youths were pushed into frustration, despair, and uncertainty. This is the reality the APC now wants Osun people to forget.

    Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke is deliberately prioritizing welfare of the people, and creating an enabling environment for the safe actualization of dreams, and aspirations of young people. He understands that if parents are in trouble, their children will suffer.

    That is why his administration pays salaries promptly and in full. That is why pensions are paid as and when due, and payment of arrears that he did not owe are being addressed. That is why minimum wage has been implemented and improved upon. These are conscious decisions rooted in empathy, not politics.

    If parents cannot pay school fees, the consequences are disastrous. Dreams are disrupted, confidence is broken, and frustration deepens. Governor Adeleke understands this human reality and has restored dignity to workers and retirees. Today, families can plan again, homes are stable, and youths can focus on their future instead of survival.

    Beyond this, the administration’s strong local content policies are empowering artisans, traders, and small business owners. These are majorly youths, and parents who can now earn honestly and support their children. When parents are economically active, youths are shielded from social pressure and desperation.

    This is what genuine youth-friendly governance looks like in practice, not in propaganda.

    For the sake of posterity, instead of attempting to manipulate Osun youths with recycled narratives, the APC should seek forgiveness for the hardship inflicted on families during its time in government. No amount of rebranding can erase pain without accountability and remorse.

    Governor Ademola Adeleke remains confident of the people’s support because his government has reduced pain, restored dignity, and governed with a human face. Osun youths feel the difference. Osun homes feel the difference. And they are determined never to return to an era that broke families and strained the future of a generation.

    It’s pertinent to state clearly that Osun youths have already made their choice in Governor Adeleke because the 2026 election will not be decided by political tricks or empty promises.

    (Mallam Olawale Rasheed is
    Spokesperson to the State Governor)

     

    About Flowerbudnews
    Established by Hon.  Biola Lawal, a former Acting Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), FLOWERBUDNEWS is a consortium of active veteran journalists, experienced Multimedia broadcast experts and image makers.

    We are drawn from both public and private  sectors of Nigeria’s media Industry with a common  determination to enhance the practice of responsible journalism..

    Lawal, on his part, is also a former Honourable Commissioner for Information,Youth, Sports and Culture of Osun state, his home state.

    Biola Lawal had also successfully served two tenures as Press Secretary to the ECOMOG Force Commander in Liberia during the Liberian and Sierra Leone Civil wars. He was an outstanding NAN Defence and War Correspondent for many years.

    The retired NAN Acting Boss holds the honour of being the only journalist that served two terms on the ECOMOG international assignment due to his high professionalism and decency.

    He is a Co-Author of the book; ECOMOG, A BOLD ATTEMPT AT REGIONAL PEACEKEEPING! Edited Mrs Magaret Voght.  The book remains the most. factual, detailed and authentic book on the ECOWAS sponsored ECOMOG Military operation.

  • YES/NO Chairmen Defy Police Directive, Disrupt NULGE Resumption of Duty

    YES/NO Chairmen Defy Police Directive, Disrupt NULGE Resumption of Duty

     

    By Ariyo Seleem

    Reports from across local governments in Osun state showed that the APC Yes/No Chairmen defied police directives, instructing politicians of all sides to stay away from the council secretariats for peaceful resumption of duty by NULGE members.

    The police issued the directives two days ago with specific warnings to politicians to stop their evil plots to disrupt efforts by NULGE to resume duties after months of staying away FOR security reasons.

    Eye witness reports across the state however revealed that the YES/NO chairmen not only defied the police directives but also mobilised their supporters to storm the councils hours before resumption time for NULGE members.

    The APC members who were sacked by a subsisting court order in 2022 stormed the secretariats with all manners of theatrics.

    In some local governments, the police actually assisted the APC operatives to defy directives from police commands.

    In several other local governments, the police reportedly did not raise a finger to enforce its widely publicised directives to politicians to stay away from the councils.

    Checks showed that the development has created a dilemma for the NULGE members who are reportedly afraid of their safety following alleged plans to molest BY the APC members.

    It would be recalled that the APC operatives had sent out audio messages last night in which NULGE was allegedly smeared and tagged as anti- APC agenda.

    The YES/NO chairmen were therefore at the council secretariats with a mindset to reportedly deal with the civil servants.

    It is not clear what the police command will do now that its order has been floated and disregarded by the YES/NO chairmen.

    Meanwhile, the PDP elected chairmen were not spotted at any of the local governments.

    The chairmen were said to be acting on the earlier directives of the PDP leadership not to resume at the councils to avoid breakdown of law and ORDER

  • Low turnout as Osun council workers resume after 11-month hiatus

    Low turnout as Osun council workers resume after 11-month hiatus

     

     

    Local Government council secreatariats  in Osun recorded a low turnout of workers on Monday as they resumed duty after an 11-month sit-at-home directive.

    Correspondents of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), who visited some council offices in the state, report that only a few workers were seen on the councils’ premises.

    NAN reports that heavy police presence was observed in all the local government councils visited.

    When a NAN correspondent visited Olorunda Local Government Area,  only a handful of workers were seen.

    The Chairman of a local government, Mr Kunle Abdulmajid, while speaking with NAN, said he was happy that staff had resumed duty after almost 11 months of sitting at home.

    Abdulmajid said the resumption of workers would revitalise developmental activities at the grassroots, which he noted had suffered greatly in the past 11 months.

    “We are all from this state, and we are all working for the progress of the state.

    “With the resumption of workers today, I am very sure that Osun will move forward,” he said.

    At Ife Central Local Government secretariat, a few workers were also seen within the premises, with heavy security personnel stationed at the entrance and within the secretariat.

    Workers were screened by police personnel at the entrance of the council before they were allowed in.

    However, the workers declined to speak with the NAN correspondent when approached to share their experiences about the resumption.

    They said they had received strict instructions not to speak with the press.

    Similarly, at about 8:45 a.m. at the Ede North Local Government Secretariat, some workers were seen cleaning their offices, while others were chatting and exchanging greetings.

    Mr Kunle Ajao, a staff member of the council, said workers were happy to resume duty after spending months at home doing nothing.

    Ajao said workers were obligated to perform their duties without political influence, expressing optimism that the issues surrounding the local government crisis would be resolved.

    The Chairman of Ede North Local Government, Mr Elliot Adeyemi, told NAN that the resumption of workers would enhance development across the state.

    Adeyemi said the decision by workers to return to duty was in the overall interest of the people at the grassroots.

    He added that the resumption would improve service delivery and help address grassroots challenges in communities across the state.

    “I have been at work since Feb. 10, 2025; it was our workers who had been at home for the past 11 months that resumed today.

    “The atmosphere in the local government is calm, and nobody is harassing or sending the workers away,” he said.

    Adeyemi called for cooperation and collaboration among workers, saying synergy was needed for meaningful growth and development at the grassroots level.

    NAN reports that local government administration in the state had been embroiled in a crisis following the Feb. 10 judgement of the Court of Appeal in Akure.

    While the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) maintained that the judgment did not reinstate the sacked All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmen and councillors elected in 2022, the APC insisted that the ruling restored them to office.

    Consequently, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) directed local government workers to withdraw their services from Feb. 17, 2025, citing security concerns.

    However, on Dec. 29, 2025, the national leadership of NULGE directed workers to resume duty.

    Mr Nathaniel Ogungbangbe said that after extensive internal consultations, the union resolved that its members in Osun should resume work on Jan. 5, 2026.

    The directive, however, drew opposition from the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in the state.

    In a statement, the ALGON Chairman in Osun, Mr Samuel Abiodun, urged security agencies to hold Ogungbangbe responsible should there be any breach of peace or breakdown of law and order across the state’s local government areas.

    The police in the state, however, warned politicians against disrupting the resumption of local government workers.

    A statement by the Police Deputy Public Relations Officer in the state, Giwa-Alade Emmanuel, said the command had received credible intelligence on plans by some persons to disrupt the workers’ resumption.

    Emmanuel said the command would not permit miscreants to undermine the peace and tranquillity that have been diligently sustained in the state.

    (NAN)

  • Osun:  Iwo Alfas Ask APC, ADC Teams; Tell us why we Should not Vote for Adeleke

    Osun:  Iwo Alfas Ask APC, ADC Teams; Tell us why we Should not Vote for Adeleke

     

     

    (Gov. Ademola Adeleke)

     

    By Flowerbudnews

    The last two days have been dramatic for the campaign teams of Najeem Sallam of the ADC and Bola Oyebamiji of APC as top clerics frontally asked why they think Ademola Adeleke did not deserve a second term.

    Reports indicated that a few days ago, the Ambo team met some top clerics at Iwo, a town renowned for its deep Islamic history.

    Eye witnesses at the meeting reported that the clerics openly asked the Ikire team to list what the APC has done for Iwo to warrant a vote for her guber candidate.

    “One of the top Alfa stood up and asked: “ We love you. We truly have no problem with you. Our problem is that your party neglected Iwo when you were in office. You cannot point to anything you did for Iwo when you were in office.

    “ That Ede man should have punished Iwo for not voting for him in 2022. He did not do that. See what he has delivered for Iwo. Roads, health centers, water works rehabilitation-why should we not vote for him ?

    Another witness said an Alfa known for his closeness to the APC in the past rose from his seat and after reciting quranic verses said : A gbodo paro. Ademola Adeleke has done well for us at Iwo. I am sorry. Iwo has decided to vote Adeleke this time around”

    Reports indicated that efforts by an Iwo prominent figure to persuade the clerics failed as the Mallams asked him: “ what were you able to bring to Iwo when you served with them?. Mention any development you brought”

    The Ikire team reportedly left unceremoniously.

    A similar situation was reported to have repeated itself today at Iwo when the ADC team came visiting.

    Top source at the venue said Sallam led the team, requesting prayers for his gubernatorial ambition.

    A top cleric very popular at Iwo was reported to have stood up even before the visitors made their presentations and spoke at length about neglect of Iwo by previous governments.

    Speaking in Yoruba translated here, the cleric condemned the habit of politicians who called Iwo their second home but derived joy in abandoning the town after each election.

    “ When you were in government , mention what you did for us. You came and lied to us to secure our votes and turned your back soon after.

    “ Please tell us what the APC government delivered. Nothing. Only empty promises. Now you are here again, asking for our votes. How can we trust you when you have failed us in the past”

    A leading cleric who hosted the meeting however minced no words when he took the microphone.

    “ I welcome you to Iwo, ilu afa. Let me repeat what I said at a programme recently. Adeleke has done what Iwo has never witnessed since independence. He is bringing development on all fronts.

    “ Even the blind can see the good things Adeleke is doing for Iwo. During your time , you did nothing for us. We have a governor who is delivering for us.

    “ The governor did not punish Iwo for not voting for him in 2022. He rewards us with so many good things. So why should we not vote for him in 2026?

    “ The prayer you requested is a hard one. We cannot reward good for evil. We have no reason not to support Adeleke”, the cleric was quoted as saying.

    Sallam’s team promised to do something once elected, an assurance which the clerics called belated.

  • OSUN NULGE FAULTS ALGON FACTION OVER CLAIM TO COUNCILS,WARNS AGAINST BREAKDOWN OF ORDER

    OSUN NULGE FAULTS ALGON FACTION OVER CLAIM TO COUNCILS,WARNS AGAINST BREAKDOWN OF ORDER

     

     

    The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Osun State chapter, has rejected claims by a faction of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) led by Mr. Abiodun Idowu over continued occupation of local government secretariats in the state, warning that any breakdown of law and order should be held against the group.

    The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Osun State chapter, has rejected claims by a faction of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) led by Mr. Abiodun Idowu over continued occupation of local government secretariats in the state, warning that any breakdown of law and order should be held against the group.

    In a rejoinder issued on Tuesday and signed by the Osun NULGE President, Comrade Kehinde Nathaniel Ogungbangbe, the union described as “spurious and illegal” allegations made by Mr. Idowu against NULGE following the union’s resumption notice to its members.

    Ogungbangbe said the union was alarmed by what it termed forceful and unlawful claims to leadership of the 30 local government councils by the Idowu-led ALGON, insisting that the purported tenure of the chairmen and councillors expired in October 2025.

    According to the NULGE president, the union deliberately stayed away from the councils since February 2025 in the interest of peace when the local government crisis began, expressing confidence that the impasse would be resolved through constitutional and legal means.

    He faulted ALGON’s reliance on a pending court case to justify continued occupation of council secretariats, arguing that the filing of a suit at the Federal High Court does not amount to legal authority to remain in office without an interim or substantive court order.

    “There is no interim injunction or court order empowering them to remain in the council secretariats,” Ogungbangbe said, adding that mere filing of a case does not guarantee victory or confer legitimacy.

    The union questioned the implication of ALGON’s position, asking whether the group intended to remain in office indefinitely if the court case drags on for years, a situation it described as unacceptable and contrary to the law.

    NULGE urged Mr. Idowu and his team to return to court for an expeditious determination of their suit, stressing that only a favourable court ruling could lawfully empower them to resume duties at the councils.

    The union also appealed to security agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to caution the ALGON faction against actions capable of disrupting peace in the state, warning that any attempt to forcefully occupy local government secretariats could lead to unrest.

    Ogungbangbe reiterated NULGE’s directive for all local government workers in Osun State to resume work at their duty posts on Monday, January 5, 2026, while advising workers to remain calm and peaceful in the face of any provocation and to report incidents to law enforcement agencies.

    He reaffirmed the union’s commitment to protecting the interests of its members and maintaining peace and stability across Osun State.

  • What We Must Know for Now: Leadership, Trust, and the Future of Osun State

    What We Must Know for Now: Leadership, Trust, and the Future of Osun State

     

    *

     

     

    *By Ayodeji Muftaudeen*

    A good leader does not merely command; they inspire. They see potential where others see limits, coaxing out ability through trust and empowerment. This truth, timeless and universal, finds resonance in the political ascent of Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, popularly known as AMBO, the frontrunner for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Osun State. His emergence evokes historical echoes of leadership rooted in delegation and faith, a principle exemplified by figures from the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to the Roman Emperor Augustus. It also mirrors the legacy of Adegboyega Oyetola, the former governor of Osun State, whose quiet but resolute leadership has shaped the state’s political trajectory.

    *A Prophetic Precedent*

    In the ninth year of Hijra (631 AD), the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) made a decision that reverberated through history. Tasked with leading the Muslim community, he chose to delegate the sacred responsibility of guiding pilgrims to Mecca to his trusted companion, Abu Bakr. This was no small act. The pilgrimage, a cornerstone of Islamic faith, was the Prophet’s celestial duty. Yet, with a military campaign looming, he entrusted Abu Bakr with this pivotal role, a testament to his confidence in his companion’s competence and character.

    This moment in Islamic history offers a lens through which to view AMBO’s rise. The Prophet’s decision was not about abdicating responsibility but about recognising capability. Abu Bakr was no mere deputy; he was a leader in his own right, chosen for his integrity and ability to execute a sacred task. Similarly, Oyetola’s apparent support for AMBO—though not explicitly declared—suggests a deliberate choice to elevate a trusted ally, one whose track record mirrors the loyalty and competence of Abu Bakr.

    *Lessons from Rome*

    The annals of history offer another parallel: the partnership between Augustus, Rome’s first emperor, and his confidant, Marcus Agrippa. Augustus, once known as Octavian, transformed Rome from a republic fractured by civil war into a stable empire. Yet, his success rested heavily on Agrippa, a general and administrator whose loyalty and ingenuity were indispensable. Agrippa’s reforms—streamlining Rome’s civil service, fortifying its provinces, and overseeing monumental projects—were the scaffolding of Augustus’ reign. Their relationship was not one of subservience but of mutual respect, where trust enabled delegation and, ultimately, triumph.

    In Osun State, the dynamic between Oyetola and Oyebamiji bears striking similarities. Oyetola, a technocrat-turned-politician, has long been praised for his administrative acumen. As governor, he prioritised accountability, infrastructure, and economic stability, leaving a legacy of quiet achievement. His decision to step back from the governorship race, despite his eligibility and popularity within the APC, speaks to a rare selflessness in Nigerian politics. It is a move reminiscent of Augustus entrusting Agrippa with critical tasks, not out of weakness but from a conviction that shared leadership amplifies impact.

    *Oyetola’s Legacy and AMBO’s Ascent*

    While no definitive evidence confirms Oyetola handpicked Oyebamiji as his successor, the political undercurrents in Osun suggest a deliberate alignment. Oyetola, now a key figure in President Bola Tinubu’s administration, commands significant influence within the APC. His decision to focus on national duties while allowing Oyebamiji to take the helm in Osun reflects a strategic choice, one that prioritises the state’s progress over personal ambition. This is no small feat in a political landscape often marred by ego and opportunism.

    Oyebamiji’s credentials bolster this narrative. As Osun’s former Commissioner for Finance, he earned a reputation for fiscal discipline and transparency, qualities that aligned seamlessly with Oyetola’s governance ethos. At a 2018 turbaning ceremony, where Oyebamiji was named the Balogun Musulumi of Ikireland, Oyetola described him as “loyal,” “God-fearing,” and a “lover of his fellow humans.” These are not mere platitudes but endorsements rooted in a decade-long professional relationship. Oyetola’s praise continued in 2022, when he lauded Oyebamiji’s contributions to community development, particularly his construction of a mosque, as evidence of his commitment to public good.

    Oyebamiji, in turn, has been effusive in his admiration for Oyetola. In a public statement, he described his boss as a “patriotic, nationalistic, resourceful, creative, and disciplined administrator” whose governance institutionalised accountability in Osun. This mutual respect underscores a partnership built on shared values, a rarity in Nigeria’s often fractious political arena.

    *The Politics of Trust*

    Nigerian politics is seldom associated with selflessness. The scramble for power often overshadows competence, with loyalty frequently mistaken for sycophancy. Yet, Oyetola’s apparent endorsement of Oyebamiji challenges this norm. By stepping aside, Oyetola has not relinquished influence but redirected it, trusting Oyebamiji to carry forward his vision for Osun. This act of delegation is not merely political; it is philosophical, echoing the Prophet’s trust in Abu Bakr and Augustus’ reliance on Agrippa.

    The implications for Osun are profound. The state, like much of Nigeria, grapples with challenges: unemployment, infrastructure deficits, and the need for inclusive growth. Oyetola’s tenure laid a foundation—roads rehabilitated, healthcare improved, and fiscal discipline entrenched. Oyebamiji, as his protégé, is positioned to build on this legacy, bringing his own blend of competence and compassion to the governorship.

    *The Osun Context*

    To understand AMBO’s rise, one must consider Osun’s political landscape. The APC remains a dominant force, bolstered by Oyetola’s governance record and Tinubu’s national influence. The 2022 governorship election, which saw the APC lose to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was a setback, but the party’s grassroots machinery remains robust. Feelers from APC organs suggest Oyebamiji enjoys broad support, not merely as Oyetola’s ally but as a candidate with a proven track record.

    Oyebamiji’s tenure as Finance Commissioner was marked by prudent management. He navigated Osun through economic turbulence, ensuring salaries were paid and projects funded despite lean revenues. His ability to balance fiscal responsibility with social impact—evidenced by his community projects—has endeared him to many. In Ikireland, his contributions to religious and social infrastructure have cemented his reputation as a leader who prioritises people over politics.

    Yet, Oyebamiji’s path is not without challenges. The PDP, led by incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke, has made inroads, particularly in youth engagement and populist policies. The 2026 election will test the APC’s ability to reclaim Osun, and Oyebamiji must navigate a complex electorate that demands both continuity and innovation. His advantage lies in his alignment with Oyetola’s legacy, which remains a touchstone for many Osun residents.

    *A Broader Reflection*

    Oyebamiji’s emergence is more than a political story; it is a commentary on leadership in Nigeria. The country’s political history is replete with tales of betrayal, where loyalty is sacrificed for power. Oyetola’s decision to elevate Oyebamiji bucks this trend, offering a model of leadership that prioritises competence over conquest. It is a reminder that governance is not a solo endeavour but a collective effort, where trust in capable hands can yield transformative results.

    This principle extends beyond Osun. Nigeria, at a crossroads, needs leaders who delegate not out of necessity but from a belief in shared progress. The challenges are daunting: insecurity, economic stagnation, and a youth bulge demanding opportunities. Oyetola’s tenure in Osun and his current role in Tinubu’s administration demonstrate that disciplined leadership can yield results. Oyebamiji, as his heir apparent, carries the weight of this legacy.

    *The Road Ahead*

    As Osun approaches the 2026 governorship election, AMBO’s candidacy is a beacon of possibility. His supporters see him as a bridge between Oyetola’s steady hand and a future that demands boldness. His detractors, however, will scrutinise his ability to unify the APC further and counter the PDP’s momentum. The task is formidable, but Oyebamiji’s track record suggests he is no stranger to challenges.

    In the spirit of Abimbola Adelakun’s incisive way, one might ask: what does AMBO’s rise tell us about Nigeria? It is a reminder that leadership is not about occupying the driver’s seat but about knowing when to pass the wheel. Oyetola’s legacy, AMBO’s potential, and Osun’s aspirations converge in a narrative that challenges us to rethink power. In a nation where trust is often a casualty of ambition, their partnership offers hope—a hope that competence, loyalty, and vision can still shape a better future.

  • Osun Wins 2025 PHC Leadership as Adeleke Vows Further Dividends

    Osun Wins 2025 PHC Leadership as Adeleke Vows Further Dividends

     

    By

    Osun state has again won the 2025 Primary Health Care Challenge with Governor Ademola Adeleke vowing to further pursue delivery of good governance and democratic dividends.

    Osun state had won the 2024 PHC challenge, making the 2025 win a back to back win for the state of the living spring under Governor Ademola Adeleke.

    The PHC Leadership Challenge is a collaborative initiative designed to incentivize and recognize exceptional leadership in the delivery of Primary Healthcare (PHC) services across Nigeria. Implemented by the Nigeria Governor’s Forum (NGF) in partnership with the UNICEF and National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), and supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) and Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF).

    The challenge encourages states to enhance PHC systems, thereby enforcing equitable access to essential health services for all Nigerians. This is to fast-track the implementation of the Seattle Declaration, a commitment signed by all State Governors at the National Economic Council meeting in November, 2019; to elevate Primary Healthcare on the political agenda, promote accountability, and drive measurable improvements in health outcomes.

    Thirteen (13) awards are to be won annually, that is, the Best Performing and most Improved State and a runner-up in each of the regions and the National Recognition for the overall Best Performing State.

    The maiden edition of the Gala/Awards night (which was mainly based on states’ performance in 2022) was held on the 17th of May, 2023 whereas Borno State emerged as the overall winner. Ondo State and Ogun State emerged as the winner and runner-up respectively in the South-West zone at the maiden edition. Osun State came 4th in the zone and 26th in the country then.

    Osun’s records improved from number four position under the previous APC government of former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola to the first position under Governor Adeleke in 2024 with a $500,000 awards. The governor had ploughed back the 2024 cash award for the further improvement of the PHCs across the state.

     

    About Flowerbudnews
    Established by Hon.  Biola Lawal, a former Acting Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), FLOWERBUDNEWS is a consortium of active veteran journalists, experienced Multimedia broadcast experts and image makers.

    We are drawn from both public and private  sectors of Nigeria’s media Industry with a common  determination to enhance the practice of responsible journalism..

    Lawal, on his part, is also a former Honourable Commissioner for Information,Youth, Sports and Culture of Osun state, his home state.

    Biola Lawal had also successfully served two tenures as Press Secretary to the ECOMOG Force Commander in Liberia during the Liberian and Sierra Leone Civil wars. He was an outstanding NAN Defence and War Correspondent for many years.

    The retired NAN Acting Boss holds the honour of being the only journalist that served two terms on the ECOMOG international assignment due to his high professionalism and decency.

    He is a Co-Author of the book; ECOMOG, A BOLD ATTEMPT AT REGIONAL PEACEKEEPING! Edited Mrs Magaret Voght.  The book remains the most. factual, detailed and authentic book on the ECOWAS sponsored ECOMOG Military operation.

  • Osun_LG_Matters: Sole issue before the S’Court, by Osun Leaders of Thought

    Osun_LG_Matters: Sole issue before the S’Court, by Osun Leaders of Thought

     

    By Barandbench

    Nowhere in the constitution does the Justice Minister possess powers to tamper with state or local government allocations

    The Supreme Court is billed to sit on a constitutional question brought by the Osun state Government. The issue for determination is whether the Attorney General of the Federation has any power under the constitution to direct the withholding or the payment of a state or local government allocation under the Federation Account and Allocation Committee.

    The suit is about whether such powers exist within the mandate of the Justice minister and if the exercise of such power by the Attorney General of the Federation in the case of the seized Osun local government fund is not ultra vires and a direct breach of the constitution.

    The Apex Court of the land is not for window dressing, legal gymnastics and merriment. It doesn’t fancy nor give room to the narrow compass of technical justice. Our Supreme Court is an undeniable authority which compels and commands obedience as a Court of policy, public interest and substantial justice.

    The highest court in the land is known for its top-notch integrity and the high standard of my lord Justices sitting on the highly respected bench. My Lords are facing a major constitutional matter and there is no doubt they have the total view of the issue involved and it would therefore be a straight forward matter for them to decide.

    In the case of Osun local government fund, the height of abuse of power was when the Minister of Justice directed his colleague, the Minister of Finance to withhold Osun state local government allocation. The second assumption of non-existing power was when the Justice minister further directed that the said fund be paid to particular set of politicians who have lost their mandates because their election was in violation of the Electoral Act as decided by a Federal High Court and affirmed by a Federal Court of Appeal.

    The issue before the top court is not about who is the authentic elected chairmen and councillors of the local governments in Osun State.

    That has been settled by the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal which sacked the Yes/No chairmen of the APC, a decision which was confirmed by the Court of Appeal. The Court had unequivocally determined that the rightful occupants of the local government leadership are the PDP chairmen and councillors whose election comformed with the provisions of the Electoral Act. There is therefore no dispute before the law as to who is the authentic leadership of the local government in Osun State.

    As the apex court sits on the matter of powers of the Justice Minister, it is instructive at this point to examine what powers the constitution allocates to the office of the Attorney General of the Federation and if he has exceeded those powers in the case of Osun state.

    The Attorney-General of the Federation has the responsibility to advise the Federal Government appropriately that the current judgment which is against the Yes/No APC council officials is bound to be obeyed and should be implemented without delay. However, the AG has allowed his political affiliation to becloud his professional ethics

    The office of the Attorney-General of the Federation is established under section 150(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). It provides that: “There shall be an Attorney-General of the Federation who shall be the Chief Law Officer of the Federation and a Minister of the Government of the Federation. By this provision, the AGF serves a dual role:
    1. As the Chief Law Officer of the Federation, he is the principal legal Adviser to the federal government.

    2. As a Minister of the Government, he is a political appointee, serving as part of the Federal Executive Council.

    The powers of the AGF are principally derived from section 174 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) i.e the power to institute criminal proceedings, to take over criminal proceedings instituted by any other person under his fiat and to discontinue criminal proceedings at any stage before judgment is delivered.

    However, despite this enormous power, the Constitution further requires that, in exercising these powers, the Attorney-General must have regard to public interest, the interest of justice and the need to prevent abuse of power.

    The AGF is only an Officer of one of the three levels of government involved in FAAC, that is the Federal government. He does not represent the 36 states and the 774 local governments. He lacks the power to assume the functions of FAAC or that of a court of law. His action is a manifestation of impunity, an affront on existing court judgements and a breach of the rule of law

    The above powers only applicable to criminal matters not civil matters, the AGF lacks such powers in civil matters such as dispute between a state and federal government, matters involving one agency of government against another and suit between a state government and local government.

    Nowhere in the constitution does the Justice Minister possess powers to tamper with state or local government allocations. Only a court of law can stop a state or local government allocations. Once the FAAC determines the Federation sharing formula, only a competent court can decide to halt or tamper with the disbursement process.

    The AGF is only an Officer of one of the three levels of government involved in FAAC, that is the Federal government. He does not represent the 36 states and the 774 local governments. He lacks the power to assume the functions of FAAC or that of a court of law. His action is a manifestation of impunity, an affront on existing court judgements and a breach of the rule of law.

    If the AGF is to claim to be enforcing the Supreme Court judgement on local government fund that affects all States of the Federation, he again acted outside his powers for several reasons. The implementation was put on hold to sort out operational questions by a government in which the AGF is the Chief Law Officer. Secondly, the AGF acted against the law by selecting only one state to illegally apply the ruling. Thirdly, he ordered payment into an account opened by politicians without mandates and who are not official signatories to local government accounts.

    The AGF has no powers no manage or control local governments in Osun state or Nigeria as a whole. The control of Local Government finance is vested in section 7 of the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria. The 1999 as amended is still in force. It has not been suspended. It remains the ground norm under which Nigeria operates.

    Supreme Court July 2024 ruling on local government Autonomy did not suspend the provision of this section of the Constitution. Section 7 (1) provides that: ” The system of local government by democratically elected local government councils is under this constitution guaranteed; and accordingly, the Government of every State shall subject to section 8 of this constitution, ensure their existence under a Law which provides for the establishment, structure, composition, FINANCE, and functions of such councils.”

    In the same vein, section 7(6) also clothed the House of Assembly of States with power over statutory allocations, it says “the House of Assembly of a State shall make provisions for statutory allocation of public revenue to local government councils within the State. Those provisions subsistence and the AGF cannot by any stretch of imagination assumes powers not allocated to his office.

    When and if my lord Justices at the Supreme Court acetone decide, validated grounds exist to prove that the AGF acted ultra vire his powers. His actions are illegal and a violation of the constitution.

    On the wider issue, the AGF cannot claim to be protecting council chairmen validly sacked by a court of law.

    A quick backgrounder is necessary on this matter. On August 8, 2022, the All Progressive Congress (APC)-led government in Osun State after losing the governorship election of July 16 2022 to PDP issued a notice to conduct local government election. This “Jankara Notice” was in contravention of mandatory 360 days notice stipulated under Electoral Act 2022 and Osun State Independent Electoral Laws.

    As a result of this contravention of the law by APC led government under leadership of Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola who conducted an election with less three months notice, the

  • Osun APC is a Threat to the Judiciary & Democracy – Osun Govt

    Osun APC is a Threat to the Judiciary & Democracy – Osun Govt

     

    – Alleged Bribery of NULGE Leadership Baseless – Adeleke’s Spokesperson

     

    OSOGBO –Osun state chapter of the All Progressives Congress is a strong threat to democracy and the sanctity of the judiciary going by its reckless actions and statements on the Osun local government matters currently before the Supreme Court.

    Spokesperson to Governor Ademola Adeleke, Mal Rasheed Olawal,  made the statement while responding to allegations by the state APC that the state governor had bribed the leadership of the local government workers’ union (NULGE) to stay away from the local government secretariats.

    According to the spokesperson, the allegation was not only unfounded and baseless but a further manifestation of the APC’s disregard for the rule of law and its shameless embrace of impunity in a democracy that is governed by known laws and the constitution.

    “The level of impunity on display by the state APC constitutes serious threat to our democratic life. The party started by falsifying a Court of Appeal judgement to claim a fake reinstatement of its court sacked chairmen. It proceeded to ignore a Court of Appeal judgement arising from its own belated appeal which affirmed the subsistence of the sacking of its chairmen and confirmed the legality of PDP chairmen and councillors across the local governments.

    “Behaving like political robbers in a lawless country, the state APC got even more emboldened to invade and occupy the council secretariats without any legal mandate. With a system that appears to pander to illegality, the opposition brazenly made to claim public fund through another layers of illegality until they were legally stopped in their track.

    “The judiciary had waded in to set the records straight, providing needed interpretation and interventions. Unfortunately, the state APC appears so bitter and so bold about its disrespect for the judiciary that it can still be debating a matter now before the highest court in the land. This was after it has fruitlessly launched sabotage of the judicial process.

    “ The general public is aware of the illegality and criminal dimension of the APC actions on the Osun local government issues. At this point, we expect the opposition to submit and await the ruling of the apex court instead of throwing tantrums about the failure of its illegal take over of Osun local government system.

    “We therefore urge the public to disregard the new bag of lies from the APC. The workers union is an independent body with its own modus operandi. The fight to stop the attempted looting of the local government treasury is a collective efforts of all stakeholders who needs no inducement to fight for and protect their interests.

    “The opposition has come to the end of its evil game; the people have resisted illegality; and the world awaits the judiciary to make final pronouncement”, the Spokesperson was quoted as saying.