The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Ecstasy in Ekiti community over 32-bed hospital

    Ecstasy in Ekiti community over 32-bed hospital

    Going by the World Health Organisation (WHO) records, the average life expectancy in Nigeria is 47 years. Even though that of Ekiti State is put at 54, the highest in Nigeria, Group Political Editor EMMANUEL OLADESU reports that the member representing Ikole/Oye Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Hon. Bimbo Daramola, regards the figure as low. To further enhance the well-being of members of his constituency, he built the Joan Taiwo Daramola Memorial Hospital 

    He is famous for his penchant for the welfare of people of Ekiti State. This proclivity to people’s well-being is better enhanced by his political belief, which the All Progressives Congress (APC), a party that preaches overall development of the human person as against stomach infrastructure.

    By means of this political platform, Bimbo Daramola has become an unquantifiable driving force for human capital development and empowerment. He is consistent in pontificating politics of welfare and development, which he always emphasised and recommended as the only panacea that would bring succour to the suffering Nigerian masses.

    Being a consistent and seeming incorrigible proponent and vanguard of good governance, Hon. Daramola has endeared himself to the Ekiti masses. This is so because not only does he preach it, he also acted it since his election in 2011 as a member of the National Assembly to represent Ikole/Oye Federal Constituency.

    On November 8, this year, Hon. Daramola added another first to his dossier as a trail blazer among public servants in Ekiti State. He built a 32-bed hospital worth over N100 million for members of his constituency for improved health care delivery.

    It is not only the monetary value of the project that speaks volume, but its conception and being the first of its kind by any federal legislator in the history of the 18-year-old  Ekiti State.

    The hospital built with his personal funds is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment. The project was not executed with funds provided by the National Assembly under the constituency projects’ funds.

    In fact, Hon. Daramola had always been on the good side of history as far as the politics of Ekiti State is concerned. He is a man of unblemished records of service and his political antecedent in a generation that lays much emphasis on stomach infrastructure has not been tainted in anyway.

    One of these scintillating services he had rendered to the people was that he and ex-governor Kayode Fayemi joined efforts to fight for the liberation of Ekiti State for three-and-a-half years under the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

    Today, the gains of the protracted battle are being savoured by the people in terms of infrastructural facelift which the immediate past government engendered in the state.

    He also served as the Director-General of the Kayode Fayemi campaign organisation in a bid to consolidate the gains of democracy for Ekiti people in the June 21, 2014 Governorship election. He is still in the struggle to rescue the people from the claws of locusts masquerading as friends of the masses.

    Shortly after his victory at the polls in 2011, he instituted a programme called Abo Mi Re, which means “this is my scorecard” through which reeled off his empowerment programmes for his constituents and even beyond. This was in a bid to banish poverty among the masses.

    The project is the flagship of the numerous programmes he had instituted on this platform.

    The hospital, christened ‘Joan Taiwo Daramola Memorial Hospital’, built in memory of his late mother, was located in Ire Ekiti, his country home in Oye Local Government Area of Ekiti State.

    The number of eminent Nigerians who were at the well-attended inauguration ceremony of the hospital confirms that it was not a child’s play or one of those programmes shoddily conceived under the guise of empowerment to delude the people.

    The important personalities at the epoch-making event included were former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal ex-Governors Kayode Fayemi, Segun Oni, Niyi Adebayo, State Chairman, APC, Chief Jide Awe and many others.

    Speaking at the event, Hon. Daramola said with the medical equipment installed in the hospital, it is now one of the best in the state.

    He said making it the best or creating unhealthy rivalry with other health institutions was not his intention, adding that his aim was to make it play complementary role to hospitals such as the Federal Medical Centre, Ido-Ekiti and the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti for efficient and robust medical services that can enhance the health  of the people.

    Hon. Daramola, who said Ekiti State has the highest life expectancy in Nigeria, which was put at an average of about 54 years, going by the records of the World Health Organisation, was emphatic that the 47-year average life expectancy in Nigeria is a shameful and frightening trend that needed to be combated at all costs.

    He expressed discontentment with the 54 years average age for Ekiti, even as he described it as too low to be happy about. He was of the view that health status of the masses determines their life expectancy.

    Considering the enormous resources available in the country, Daramola said no Nigerian would have been expected to die prematurely due to poor medical facilities, if the leaders have been prudent and focused. The lawmaker urged government at all levels to place high premium on adequate investment in the health sector to reverse the frightening level of low life expectancy in the country.

    Nostalgic of the experiences he had with her late mother, whom he described as  pillar of the family, Daramola clarified that the multi-million Naira hospital aims at contributing to the well-being of the downtrodden, who suffer ill-health daily for lack of adequate and affordable medical care.

    Hon. Daramola said Ekiti State’s status as having the highest life expectancy in Nigeria with an average age of 54 years, had confirmed the pervasive rot and mismanagement in the system.

    For smooth running of the hospital, the APC chieftain said he would partner with the Anglican Communion, owners of Ile Abiye Hospital in the running of the institution for optimal efficiency, saying his dream is to make the hospital one of the best in the country.

    He said: “I instituted what I called Abo mi re, which is my scorecard. This donation is the flagship of all that I have done for the people since they sent me to the National Assembly to represent them. Political office holders must learn to give back to the society. I have given out a lot of things. Everything I have done in the past may be denied or run out of season, but this one is the flagship and will be in use even when I am dead.

    “I built the hospital as a way of giving back to the people for entrusting in me their mandate in the House of Representatives. The stride is one of the ways to improve on the abysmally low life expectancy among the rank and file of the downtrodden masses.

    Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, who inaugurated the project after being honoured with a traditional title by Onire of Ire-Ekiti, Oba Victor Bobade, lambasted President Goodluck Jonathan for running the most inept government in the history of the country.

    Particularly, Atiku said the country never had it so bad in the area of health care delivery, which he said is fast becoming the most retrogressive sector in Nigeria.

    Speaking about the state of the country’s economy, which he said brought about the pervasive rot that had permeated other sectors, the presidential aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress, said: “Nigeria was sick under PDP misrule and there must be serious efforts to salvage it.”

    He posited that the fortunes of the country would have been better managed if competent and those with passion for service like Daramola were elected into positions of authority, particularly the Presidency.

    Continuing, he said: “Certainly, Nigeria is not healthy. When you look at the issues of economy and insecurity in the country, you will know that certainly, Nigeria is not healthy. The only thing that can salvage Nigeria’s situation is to seize the opportunity to bring about a change by voting in APC.”

    Atiku, who praised Daramola for the initiative, advised the Ekiti people not to mortgage their future for a bag of rice.

    “I believe the people of Ekiti surely don’t need stomach infrastructure. Would you forego education for stomach infrastructure? Would you forego health care for stomach infrastructure? Would you forgo infrastructural development for stomach infrastructure?

    “Today Japan is the third biggest economy in the world. They don’t have the farmland that you have in Ekiti State but they have education and technology. Anybody who is telling you all you need is a bag of rice; no. No; Ekiti people, no.”

    The immediate past Governor of the State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and his predecessor, Mr Segun Oni, urged the people to give priority attention to infrastructural development, rather than anything that will serve immediate needs.

    They said: “For us as progressives, health is wealth. The health of our people matters most to us than simplistic and populist sharing of public money.” They described the initiative as a model that will improve the life expectancy of the people.

    A resident of the constituent and native of Ilupeju Ekiti, Mrs Mary Olatunji, described the lawmaker as godsend to Ekiti people. She said Daramola was one of the few Nigerians who put his political activism into play in his service to the people.

    “Hon Daramola is our own. He can win election anytime here not minding the party in power. He always put the masses first and the way he does his things is unique. He has brought uniqueness to governance in Ekiti,” she said.

    Mrs. Olatunji said the people of Oye and Ikole Local Government Area can now seek medical help in the hospital as alternative to hospitals in Ido and Ado-Ekiti.

     

  • ‘Forensic science helps in solving high profile murder cases’

    ‘Forensic science helps in solving high profile murder cases’

    An Ibadan lawyer, Mr. Kunle Alade has stressed the importance of forensic science in resolving high profile murder cases in Nigeria. OSEHEYE OKWUOFU reports that Alade said the one forensic laboratory is inadequate for the country and advocates for more of the facility than the one established by the Nigeria Police Force. Excerpts:

    Why are you miffed that there is only one forensic laboratory in the country?

    I have always wondered how Nigeria survived the past 54 years prosecuting criminal cases without applying forensic science as a tool in handling criminal cases. There is an area I have always been interested in. While growing up, I had always been fascinated about an idea of finger print being extracted from an item and translated into data that can be used to compare with other people’s finger prints to see if there is a match. This is something I have always been interested in.

    I believe that I have started on the right part which is setting up a Centre for Forensic Criminology and Legal Research. Let’s see where the centre takes us to and then we will take it from there.

    Forensic as a science is a veritable tool in resolving criminal cases. We can talk about different aspects of it. There are the DNA profiling and finger print extraction. There are so many areas of forensic science that I believe government can take interest in and turn it round.

    Is it very necessary for the country to develop forensic science to resolve criminal cases?

    Good legislations can help the country to have a framework for forensic criminology to thrive. It’s worrisome that in Nigeria, we have none of such. It will be fine if our lawmakers could sit up and evolve legislation as regards forensic criminology as a veritable tool for solving criminal cases in Nigeria. It will be good for us to have that kind of framework to work and build on so that this area can thrive and help us resolve most of the unresolved murders and criminal cases generally.

    What are the major components of criminal justice and forensic science? How will these two complement each other in tackling criminal matters?

    In today’s criminal justice system, the traditional methods of proof, eyewitness’ account and confessions have become unpredictable. Criminal trials last for what seems like eternity, while the criminals are becoming cleverer and more scientific.

    It has become pertinent that law enforcement agents; lawyers and the judiciary learn to rely on more authentic and concrete methods of proofs in order to solve criminal cases. This approach has to be reliable, objective and not prone to easy manipulation.

    This solution is provided by science because by nature, scientific evidence is more or less exact, far more reliable and does not turn hostile under threats. Science is based on clues and materials which are always dependable.

    What are the benefits of investing in forensic science in a developing country such as Nigeria?

    The benefits of employing forensic science as a crime-solving tool are immense. The police, courts and juries, the world over, are also increasingly demanding more objective scientific evidence.

    In Nigeria, it appears that we have not turned our minds to the benefits and potential of Forensic Science. Our Police Force, the Bar and Bench have been far less successful in developing an enabling environment for Forensic Science to thrive in Nigeria.

    Consequently, we often see criminal trials conducted from inception to conclusion without applying thorough scientific analysis. The establishment of the first forensic laboratory at the force CID in Lagos is commendable. However, their presence and expertise is urgently needed all over Nigeria. This has to be replicated in all the other 35 states of the country.

    Is it not grave to assert that Nigeria has not shown enough interest in developing forensic science to aid in solving criminal cases?

    There is an evident lacuna that exists in the Nigerian criminal justice system as it pertains to the use of scientific cum forensic applications. The Evidence Act, Penal Code and the Criminal Code make no provision for forensic-based analogy in criminal or general law in Nigeria.

    Despite the worldwide pre-eminence of this field, Nigeria is still living in the dark ages as it regards the use of forensics in solving crime-related issues. There is an obvious dearth in the practice and use of forensic to solve crimes in Nigeria.

    The use of forensic analysis to solve crimes such as homicide, rape and assault involves various multi-faceted processes. Over the past decade, there has been an increasing fascination in the field of forensic science around the globe. Forensic science is undergoing a global expansion and it is becoming increasingly important, both as an area of study and in the criminal justice system.

    What area of criminal investigation can forensic science apply?

    The use of forensic analysis in criminal investigations such as homicide, rape and assault involves DNA testing, keeping a data base of present and past offenders, finger print dusting mechanism, bodily fluid collection and analysis, among others.

    It helps the police to identify criminals responsible for assault, robbery, kidnapping, rape and murder. Forensic scientists provide scientific evidence for use in the courts to support either the prosecution or defence in criminal and civil investigations.

    A common misconception about the work of forensic scientists is that they merely investigate murder and homicide. However, their job entails much more as they also focus on numerous specialisations, including DNA analysis, drug analysis, forensic chemistry, forensic anthropology, forensic photography, latent fingerprints and crime scene investigation and so on.

    For instance, some forensic scientists use scientific techniques in order to determine if industries are releasing harmful chemicals into the environment in dangerous quantities. As a result of the unimaginable detail that goes into each investigation, forensic scientists often specialise in specific areas which include toxicology, which is the study of poisons and drugs; odontology which is the study of teeth and bite patterns; pathology, the study of body fluids and tissues; and even entomology, the study of the type and degree of development of maggots on a corpse to determine how long ago the victim died.

  • HIV/AIDS: Getting to Zero campaign holds in Lagos

    The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Coca-Cola and Friends Africa, have concluded plans to hold the Third World AIDS Day on December 6 in Lagos.

    The campaign, whose theme is Getting to Zero, aims at removing stigma and discrimination from those living with HIV and AIDS. The campaign will also leverage on the power of sports to create more awareness about HIV and AIDS stigma and discrimination. As a result, it hopes to assemble an array of stars to play for pleasure.

    At a briefing in Lagos, Friends Africa’s goodwill ambassador and Olympic Gold Medallist, Mr Emmanuel Babayaro said: “I am excited to inform all that there is increased commitment from Nollywood and the entertainment industry to continue to advocate for HIV-free generation. We cannot let this continue and the only way to end stigma is to increase the number of voices drawing attention to the issue.”

    He reeled off names of those that would play in the event entitled:  Superstars Play for Life, to include JayJay Okocha, Daniel Amokachi, Celestine Babayaro, MI, Sound Sultan, Dr Sid, Uti Nwachukwu, ID Cabasa, Femi Obong Daniels, Afeez Ayetoro, Segun Arinze, Fred Amata, Nonso Diobi, John Njama and Sexy Steel.

    Other celebrities are Mobi Oparaku, Ben Akwuegbu, Teslim Fatusi, Emeka Ezeugo, Taiwo Enegwa and Abdul Isah.

    Chief Executive Officer/Founder, Friends Africa Dr Akudo Anyanwu Ikemba said: “The major issue facing the eradication of the pandemic remains the stigma and discrimination of people living with HIV and AIDS.

    “HIV and AIDS is not the same as living with diabetes or hypertension as the continuing stigma has caused people to neglect the collection of their drugs. The campaign remains focused on ensuring that stigma and discrimination are completely eliminated from Nigeria.”

    She said the event would be sponsored by Coca-Cola, Access Bank, FCMB, FBN Capital, FBN Asset Management, Exxon Mobil, SO&U, Owu Sportswear, CoolWazobiaInfo, Beat FM, Brilla FM, Jobberman, SportsDey, SFH, LASACA and NEWPHAN.

    The Public Affairs and Communications Director, Coca Cola Nigeria, Mr. Clem Ugorji, said: “Every problem in the community can be solved when there is a golden triangle which strongly involves the government, people and civil societies. The power of awareness cannot be equated to anything else and the first step needed to address the pandemic is to encourage more people to get tested and know their status. This is what Coca-Cola remains committed to.”

    Head, Corporate Communications and Sustainability, Access Bank Plc, Mrs Omobolanle Victor-Laniyan said: “Although Access Bank remains committed to ending the scourge against the pandemic; we are still not there yet. There is need to increase advocacy, our reach and the impact of the campaign to more communities and the surrounding environments.”

    Head, Corporate Communications and CSR, FCMB, Mrs Uche Mojekwu, said: “FCMB remains focused on ensuring a healthy workforce by empowering communities with the necessary life skills needed to address stigma and discrimination of people living with HIV.”

    She urged the media to report the successes of the project and contribute their quota by spreading the word about HIV and AIDS and its impact.

    The campaign scheduled to hold fromDecember at the Campos Mini-Stadium, off Catholic Mission, Onikan, Lagos would feature a week-long free voluntary counselling and testing of over 20,000 people, distribution of thousands of IEC materials, provision of accurate information about the pandemic, dissemination of vital information to over three million people using several media platforms, including local languages to further educate and empower people with information needed to help prevent new infections.

    The Play for Life campaign will also feature a novelty football match scheduled to hold on Saturday, December 6 by 11:00 a.m. at the Campos Mini-Stadium Onikan, Lagos.

    The match will bring together over 3,000 spectators and communities of person’s living with HIV and AIDS to witness the selfless display of renowned football players and celebrities playing against one another and lending their voices to a laudable cause.

  • Lifeline for leadership training centre

    Lifeline for leadership training centre

    The Sea School, one of the units of Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre, Lagos, is a Mecca of sort for most of the highbrow schools in Lagos. If they are not visiting the place for excursion, the schools ensure that their new prefects are taken to the island for retreat and leadership training.

    Aside being a tourist centre, the island, which is about two kilometres long, 300m wide, is a training centre for security agencies in Nigeria.

    The cool breeze;  serene environment, the almond trees that mitigate scorching sun; array of ships that dot the sea, make one appreciate nature. If one is upset before visiting the island, one’s nerves would be calmed.

    However, those beautiful vistas were in the yesteryear. The once dazzling school has become fetid. Things seemed okay at the Sea School until about three months ago, when the embankment collapsed and water began started to wash off part of the island.

    It was quite difficult to notice that all is not well with the Sea School until the Minister of Youth and Social Development, Boni Haruna, visited the school.

    His visit to the school opened a can of worms.

    Though there are new buildings being erected in the school, most buildings in the school are more than 50 years old, as most of them were built in 1965. To worsen the situation, the original Master Plan of the centre is lost or so it seems.

    The once prestigious school is currently in darkness. Seemingly, it has been yanked off the National Grid.

    At its inception, the centre enjoyed constant power supply, but the privatisation of the Dockyard changed the situation.

    The Director-General, Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre, Mr. Michael Oladele Fawole said: “Until 2005, Nigerdock was supplying electricity to the centre but when a new company took over Nigerdock, they refused to supply light to the school even though we promised to pay the bill. There is a village in between us and they knew it was going to be difficult to get them pay for light, the company declined our request. Since then, we have not been having light. Because of the situation, we have been using generator.

    “The centre spends an average of N300, 000 a month on fuel in order to power the school.

    “While the centre would want to host many visitors, the hostels are inadequate. It is so bad that students are accommodated in the new library.”

    During the visit, the minister had a dose of the hardship members of staff of the centre go through. As he sat in the office of the Coordinator of the centre, Mrs Lambert Oyebola Faleye, the minister was sweating profusely. It took him a while to sign the visitors’ book and when the heat became unbearable, he had to remove his jacket.

    Transporting people in and out of the island is also a challenge. The D-G further explained that the centre has three water buses, the three would have been enough if they had been functional, adding that “it is only one that is functional. We would have loved to have a 50-seater or 100-seater boat.”

    Grim as the situation on the island may seem, it is probably one of the safest places to live in the country.

    While many have become frustrated and leave the security of their lives and properties in God’s hand, the people on the island sleep with their two eyes closed. It is difficult to commit crime on the island and go scot free.

    Aside personnel from the military and other security agencies undergoing training on the island, marine police are constantly on patrol to prevent criminals from carrying out their nefarious acts.

    Bad as it may seem and despite all the challenges the institute is experiencing, the D-G said the centre has continued to make judicious use of its limited resources.

    “Despite all these challenges, we have continued to perform. I thank members of our staff who often times find it difficult to believe that we are handicapped. I think that there is a proof that we are trying our best,” he said.

    The minister, who was accompanied by some officials of Ministry of Environment to assess the situation, acknowledged the limited facilities and decayed infrastructure and inadequate funding of the centre and promised that the problems would be solved. He said about N2 billion would be expended on the centre.

    ”We will do the needful to change the way things are done here. We will also improve the working environment, improve the facilities and reposition the school,” the minister said.

    Haruna promised to provide a new layout for the school so as to know where to locate some of the infrastructure.

    “It is not unlikely that this school will be the same again. We will create an enabling environment for you because there is so much here that could be leveraged upon. I will make sure that the needful is done,” he said.

  • Agency organises programme on morality

    Agency organises programme on morality

    In line with its core mandate to orientate, mobilise, sensitise and enlighten the public, the Ondo State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), has organised a one-day “Do the Right Thing Campus Focus Programme” hosted by the Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin in Ifedore Local Government Area of the State.

    The enlightenment programme whose theme was “Nigerian Tertiary Institution of Learning- Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow: Implications for National Transformation” was attended by major stakeholders in the education sector, including students, traditional rulers, youth corps members and top government officials.

    Various papers were presented by resource persons who included Dr Tolu Ademujimi, Mr. Titilayo Femi Kings and the Special Assistant (SA) to Governor Olusegun Mimiko on Sports Matters, Mr Olamide George.

    It was observed that the intrusion of western culture had negatively influenced Nigerian cultures so much so that all tertiary institutions are characterised by vices such as cultism, examination malpractices and sexual harassment, among others.

    A communiqué issued after the programme decried the spate of social vices among students of tertiary institutions in Nigeria, which were described as major problems militating against the realisation of the desired quality education in the country.

    It noted that impunity, disrespect to rule of law and constituted authority are also some of the major problems in the country.

    It said: “Youths constitute a greater percentage of the populace in any given society and the bedrock of its development.

    “Therefore, efforts must be geared towards re-orientating them on the need to embrace attitudinal re-adjustment and moral rectitude.

    Participants praised NOA for organising the programme, especially now that moral decadence has become the order of the day in our national lives, including the campuses.

    They also praised the proprietor of Elizade University, Chief Ade Ojo, Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Valentine Aletor and management of the institution for instilling discipline in its students and staff.

    They noted that there was urgent need to build and re-enforce the character of the youth with core values of honesty, hard work, patriotism, obedience and tolerance.

    Government, religious institutions, parents and teachers were also urged to instill discipline and moral values in the students in order to reduce social vices in tertiary institutions and the society.

    “Doing the right thing implies showing practical example for others to follow rather than verbal pronouncement. School planners/administrators should introduce practical learning where talent is recognised to suit the present generation of youth.

    “There is the need to hold a similar programme entitled “Do the Right Thing: Leadership Focus.

    “Freedom should not be taken for granted by students of tertiary institutions. Rather, they should maximise every opportunity to build their future,” they said.

    In his keynote address, the Director-General, NOA, Mr Mike Omeri who was represented by the Ondo State Director, Mr Bode Famose, pledged the determination of the agency to sensitise the public on the need to enhance cultural values for genuine transformation in the country.

    He assured that similar programmes would be organised on regular basis, particularly among students in various higher institutions across the country. He urged the citizens to do the right things to transform Nigeria.

    The Vice-Chancellor, Elizade University, Prof. Aletor appreciated the NOA’s management for availing them the opportunity of hosting the sensitisation programme in the University community, which, according to him, would enhance the moral and cultural values of the students.

    Present at the event were traditional rulers, including the Alara of Ilara-Mokin, Oba Aderemi Adefehinti, Onibuji of Ibuji, Oba Folagbade Ojo, Onimariwo of Mariwo, Oba Adegoke Aluko, Obanla of Igbara-Oke, Chief Olu Ajayi and top government officials from the state and local governments.

     

  • Ajimobi tours, presents score card in Ibadan

    Ajimobi tours, presents score card in Ibadan

    For four days last week, Governor Abiola Ajimobi toured the 11 local government areas that make up Ibadan where he presented his score card to the people in the past three-and-a-half years. BISI OLADELE, who covered the tours, writes that Ajimobi’s achievements will silence critics of his policies and programmes.

    For residents and visitors to Oyo State, particularly from January, 2012, the state has been galvanised into a society where orderliness, civility and modernity reign.

    The achievements of Ajimobi-led administration were perceptible in all parts of Ibadan, the state capital and in other major towns such as Iseyin, Ogbomoso and Oyo.

    Interestingly, Ibadan, which has the highest population in the state, is where the governor has stiff opposition. This is despite the state capital being the highest beneficiary of significant projects by the administration.

    As modern cities emerge amid peace and security, critics of the projects and Ajimobi’s leadership style increased, even as the government explains to the people why the projects were undertaken.

    Last week, the governor and his team took their enlightenment campaign to all communities in Ibadan to address residents on the reason for the policies and projects.

    The four-day tour followed the success of those to Oke-Ogun, Oyo and Ogbomoso the previous week where the governor did the same.

    Ajimobi began with a programme for commercial drivers at an event centre along Ibadan-Lagos Expressway, Soka Ibadan on Tuesday.

    At the meeting, the governor, whose arrival threw the huge crowd of drivers into jubilation, hailed them for conducting themselves within the ambit of the law and totally shunning violence since the inception of his administration.

    Governor Ajimobi told the cheering crowd that when he inherited a society some of whose features included violence, thuggery and brigandage, his pledge was to enthrone peace and harmony as well as create an atmosphere where business and other lawful activities will thrive.

    Deploring the situation where commercial drivers had constituted themselves as a menace to the society, the governor commended the drivers for support his administration by stopping violent activities within the state’s branch of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).

    He specifically praised them for being calm even when he deplored modern buses to major routes which commuters board at subsidised prices.

    The governor pledged to gradually do away with rickety buses by assisting drivers to purchase new buses.

    “As you co-operate with us, we plan to reward you with assistance. Whenever you look back and compare our administration, you will always say that ours is better. But please, don’t give in to deceit,” Ajimobi said.

    The governor urged them to continue to support his administration as he makes efforts to ensure that the state regains its glorious position.

    Earlier, the Chairman of the union, Alhaji Taofeek Oyerinde (aka Fele), expressed joy for the governor’s presence at the event, saying it showed the respect the governor accords commercial drivers in the state.

    “We are happy to have the governor here. This is unprecedented in the history of our union.

    “Peace has returned to the state under Governor Abiola Ajimobi’s administration.

    Ajimobi has brought the change we want-peace and security. Ibadan was one of the dirtiest; roads were bad and narrow but the Ajimobi administration has improved all of that. We urge you not to rest on your oars, sir. And we also promise to do our business peacefully,” he said.

    At Sasa in Akinyele Local Government, the governor had a meeting with traditional rulers, market traders, artisans, politicians, commercial drivers, religious and community leaders during which he explained his policies and programmes as well as the reasons behind them.

    The leader of Orogun community, Mr. A. Ogunsola praised the governor for fulfilling his electoral promises. He, however, urged the governor to improve water supply to the area and renovate the Orogun Link Road.

    Other community leaders who spoke also praised Governor Ajimobi for his achievements, stressing that his accomplishment would speak for him.

    The Oniroko of Iroko, Chief Abioye Olasunkanmi, who spoke on behalf of traditional rulers in the local government, requested inclusion of more chiefs in the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, citing historical reasons.

    Chief Olasunkanmi praised Ajimobi for his monumental achievements, saying as a retired teacher, he had not witnessed recruitment of 5,300 teachers on one occasion, with new recruits sourced from their localities.

    Devoid of any campaign colouration, the traditional ruler said Ajimobi’s achievements were already speaking for him for the 2015 elections.

    He said the current administration has particularly made the welfare of teachers a priority, adding that Ajimobi’s infrastructural development as well as the urban renewal policy is unparalleled. He urged him not to relent.

    Chief Olasunkanmi also pledged the support of traditional rulers and their subjects in the local government for Ajimobi as he lifts the fortunes of the state.

    Responding, the governor said he had succeeded in sustaining the rich history of the “firsts” established by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo by undertaking projects that are first of their kind in the history of the state.

    According to him, his administration adopted the principle underlining the Abraham Maslow’s human needs pyramid which stipulates that physiological needs are the very basic that should be met first.

    Accordingly, Ajimobi said the principle informed his administration priority attention given to issues such as peace and security without which nothing meaningful could be achieved.

    Governor Ajimobi said meeting the basic needs such as food, clothing and shelter requires earning an income which explains why his administration employed 20,000 youths into the Youths Empowerment Scheme of Oyo State (YES-O).

    He reminded his audiences at the councils that his administration had employed several others into the state civil service, attracted no fewer than 13 investors who had employed residents in their various factories and establishments while capping it with recruitment of 5,300 teachers at once.

    Ajimobi emphasised that stomach infrastructure means teaching people how to fish instead of giving them fish. By employing and creating job opportunities for residents, the governor said the act is already having positive multiplier effects on the economy of the state.

    At Ibadan North East Local Government Area, the governor told traditional rulers that the amount of capital flow into the state has increased by 697 per cent approximating $3.49 million, up from $500,000 between the first and second quarter of the year.

    According to him, the figure has proved wrong allegations from the opposition parties in the state that the state was witnessing capital flight since the inception of the Ajimobi administration.

    Governor Ajimobi said he was not quoting from a statistics manufactured by him but a report released recently by the National Bureau of Statistics, a Federal Government institution.

    “As revealed in the report, total capital imported into the country stood at $5.8 billion as at the end of the second quarter of 2014, relative to the $3.9 billion recorded in the preceding quarter. Of these, Southwest Nigeria was at the top destination for capital importation in the first half of 2014, with about 98 per cent of total capital imported in the Region.

    “This impressive performance located capital importation into Oyo State as having increased by 697 per cent, approximating $3.49 million, up from $500,000 between the first and second quarters of the year.

    “Happily, our uninformed and mischievous cynics have again been proved wrong in their assertions that there is capital flight in Oyo State,” the governor said.

    Governor Ajimobi said his mission in governance was to redeem the state from the shackle of under-development, even as he urged the people not to be deceived by the antics of deceitful and selfish politicians who are out to discredit the present administration.

    He pointed out that his administration has continued to play the politics of development, truth and honesty to establish a veritable platform for performance and good governance.

    “I am not a desperate politician who is out to canvass for votes by all means. My mission is to redeem the state from under-development and deceitful politicians,” he said.

    In Ona-Ara, Iddo, Oluyole, Lagelu and other councils in the city, the governor explained that driving traders away from the road was for their ultimate benefit as vehicles crushed them during accidents.

    He also pointed out that the city could no longer continue with the habit of cholera-prone practices at roadside shops by some traders which is responsible for outbreak of communicable diseases.

    As a solution, Ajimobi emphasised that his administration built neighbourhood markets to accommodate those driven away from the road, saying no previous administration did that even though they also drove away traders from the road. Additionally, he said that his administration gave out the shops to the traders at no cost, pointing out that Chief Bola Ige’s administration which built markets did not give out the shops free.

    Furthermore, Ajimobi said his administration gave out N20 million to the traders as incentive. This, he said, was aimed at improving the lot of traders.

    In the same manner, Ajimobi said his administration embarked on cleanliness of the cities, infrastructural development and the urban renewal project to change the position of the state from the second dirtiest to one of the cleanest. These, he said, aimed at enhancing people’s good health and make the state attractive to investors.

    Ajimobi also explained that his administration chose to make the welfare of teachers a top priority because his dream to overhaul the education sector would be a mirage without first making teachers happy. The same, he said, applied to civil servants who have also been enjoying 13th month salary, regular local and foreign training as well as free transportation to and from state secretariat from Mondays to Fridays.

    Why would a governor sack those trading on the streets? Why would a governor build neighbourhood markets, give out the shops free and give interest-free loans to traders? Why would a governor convert major roads in four cities to dual carriage ways at the same time? Why did Ajimobi channel resources to urban renewal project, and why would he engage 5,300 teachers at once in the face of dwindling allocation from the Federation Account?

    All these and many more were some of the issues the governor explained to the people as he toured Ibadan last week.

    Governor Ajimobi was warmly received by teachers, politicians, artisans, women groups and other categories of residents at all the local government areas with pomp and ceremony.

    On the governor’ steam were his deputy, Chief Moses Alake-Adeyemo; Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Olalekan Ali; commissioners; members of the National Assembly; Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Chief Akin Oke and political appointees.

     

     

  • Politicians advised on 2015 general elections

    The Founder/General Overseer, The Power of Prayer Church Worldwide, Bishop Samson Olagbokun Similoluwa, has called on Nigeria leaders to have fear of God in all they do, especially now the 2015 general elections are fast approaching. This, he said, is to avoid bloody crisis that could disintegrate the country. He also urged Nigerians to forsake their sins and walk with God for Him to end bloodshed in Nigeria.

    He urged politicians to always put God first in all they do and ensure they work together to make Nigeria great.

    Bishop Similoluwa made the call during the 30th anniversary of the church.

    He said Nigeria needed leaders that would be mindful of the welfare of the people.

    “We look forward to a country where justice and peace reign; where health care system is functional; where the judiciary is independent; and schools deliver quality education.”

    He said Nigerians should shun moral decadence, bribery and corruption, electoral rigging and malpractices and pray for their leaders.

    Similoluwa urged politicians to shun do-or-die politics and cultivate good characters that can move the country forward and appealed to youths to avoid being used as thugs in the 2015 general elections.

    A prayer session was organised in respect of the present situation in the country, so that God would restore normalcy in the country.

    The General Overseer, Great Commission Bible Church, Reverend Olu Johnson, who led the prayer asked the congregation to speak with one voice for God to stop bloodshed that is currently rocking the country.

    They also prayed for the quick release of the abducted girls’ from Government Girls’ Secondary School Chibok in Borno State who have been held captive by Boko Haram since April 14.

    He thanked God and everyone behind the success of the ministry, the donors of the church camp ground and the programme anniversary committee. He prayed that the anniversary will mark the beginning of another new thing in their life.

  • How to avoid diseases, by dieticians

    Dieticians in the country have advised Nigerians to eat balanced diets.

    They noted that eating more of fruits and vegetables would go a long way in preventing deadly diseases, especially diabetes.

    In a statement issued in Akure, the Ondo State capital, the dieticians, under the aegis of Institute of Diatetics of Nigeria (IDN), said though diabetes is a deadly disease, it could be completely prevented or tamed if the people could eat more balanced diets.

    The statement signed by the association’s National Secretary, Mr Tajudeen Ahmed said, dieticians body, through her branches in all the states in Nigeria, has organised awareness lectures on the onset and management of diabetes mellitus, especially dietary management.

    He pointed out that dieticians are part of the team of health care providers that manages the deadly diabetes in hospitals.

    According to him, diet is important in diabetes management and the dietician is the most important member of the diabetes health management team.

    Ahmed also revealed that November 14 of every year is set aside as commemorative anniversary of diabetes mellitus globally, which he said was birthday of Dr. Frederick Banting who was credited with the discovery of the miracle drug known as insulin that is used in diabetes control.

    He said to avoid deadly diseases; people should consume less of sugary foods (simple sugar) and eat more of complex carbohydrates, vegetables and fruits instead.

  • We’ll not beg even in disability, says couple

    Though they are physically-challenged, they remained undaunted. Adewale Olukayode and his wife Olufunmilayo are Akure-based fashion designers. They seem to be joined by fate. Both are hearing impaired and dumb. Interestingly, both are engaged in the same profession-fashion designing.

    It is a common feature among some physically-challenged to take to the streets and solicit people’s assistance. Some would hang “I am deaf and dumb. Please help me” on their necks like garlands.

    Whether genuine or fake, many have used this method to beg for alms from members of the public.

    Olukayode’s situation is excitingly different because he did not take advantage of his disability to go to the streets begging.

    He did not allow his disability to weigh him down. Ade, as he is popularly called by his admirers, is a trained tailor/fashion designer.

    Every day, Ade, a native of Akure, treks from his house along Oda Road in the Akure metropolis to his shop.

    The 45-year-old Ade is not just an ordinary tailor as you may think. He sews for the rich and the not-so-rich in the society. His clientele cuts across all social strata.

    One of his numerous and prominent customers is the former Deputy Speaker of Ondo State House of Assembly, Samuel Aderoboye.

    But how does a hearing impaired man understand customers’ specifications in terms of style?

    Aderoboye said he simply brings sketches or drawings of any style he wants to Ade.

    Others, who also patronise Ade, said they have never regretted patronising him as their designer, as his expertise has continued to attract more customers to him.

    Like Ade, his wife, Olufunmilayo who is also hearing impaired and dumb designs and sew for women. The union of the two physically-challenged couple is blessed with two kids.

  • Aspirant donates computer sets to Ondo APC

    An aspirant for the Akure North State Constituency in the Ondo State House of Assembly, Mr Leye Akinola has donated four sets of computer and printers to the state secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

    He said the donation was to facilitate administrative convenience and easy passage of information to relevant agencies for the growth of the party.

    Receiving the items, the state Chairman of the party, Isaac Kekemeke praised the donor for the gesture, even as he promised to make good use of the facilities.

    Kekemeke, who was Secretary to the State Government (SSG), reiterated that there would be no imposition of any candidate on the electorate in the choice of candidates for the 2015 general elections.

    He further said the party would abide by the wishes and aspirations of the people in the state and would not bow to any external interference.

    According to him, those who claimed to have been endorsed by the leadership of the party outside the state are merely spreading falsehood, noting that it is an attempt to frustrate other aspirants within the party.

    The chairman re-assured all aspirants as well as members of the party of level- playing field.

    He appreciated God for the rising fortune of the party in the state within the shortest time.

    Kekemeke revealed that prominent politicians in the state are set to join the APC soon.

    Speaking with reporters shortly after presenting the computer sets, Akinola said: “The gesture was informed by my desire to contribute to the development of the party. I was also motivated by the commitment and the developmental drive of Kekemeke to the APC. I decided to run for the position so as to contribute my quota to the development of the people of my local government in particular and the state in general.”

    He said he is aspiring as a party man and not as ‘group’ man, noting that he does not belong to any group but only to the APC as a party.

    He said he decided to run for the position so as to contribute his quota to the development of the people of his local government in particular and the state in general.

    He explained that he had executed projects that impacted positively in the lives of the people of his town.

    Akinola promised to do more for APC both at state, local and ward levels for the development of the party.