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Tag: ADELEKE

  • Civil society groups urge Adeleke, APC to resolve Osun LG crisis

    Civil society groups urge Adeleke, APC to resolve Osun LG crisis

    A coalition of civil society groups has called on Governor Ademola Adeleke and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to resolve the lingering crisis crippling the operations of local governments in Osun State.

    The Osun Masterminds (TOM), through its Executive Director, Professor Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, decried the shutdown of council activities since the February 12, 2025, Appeal Court ruling that reignited tensions.

    Oyedokun-Alli warned that the paralysis of grassroots governance is worsening public service delivery, tax collection, healthcare services, and citizen documentation across the state.

    According to him, “The primary healthcare system has also practically collapsed. Since primary healthcare centres draw funding from the Local Government coffers, it is evident that activities of the health centres would have taken a bad hit, exposing rural dwellers to worse health conditions than they ever experienced. Our State cannot afford to get into a widespread health emergency this way, when we are unable to provide basic healthcare.

    Read Also: 2026: Adeleke not leaving PDP for APC, says forum of Osun commissioners, SAs

    “The pains of common people in the State’s rural communities, occasioned by the continued inactivity of the local governments, are enough reason for responsive governments at all levels to urgently collaborate to find lasting solutions.

    “An impasse of the nature that has crippled Local Government administration in Osun is such that can be amicably resolved by government stakeholders if there was any true commitment to development.”

    The coalition pleaded with all parties in the interest of our people to find solutions to the ongoing crisis so that development is not halted.

  • 2026: Adeleke not leaving PDP for APC, says forum of Osun commissioners, SAs

    2026: Adeleke not leaving PDP for APC, says forum of Osun commissioners, SAs

    The Osun State Executive Council has dismissed speculations that Governor Ademola Adeleke may dump the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

    Speaking at a press conference held at the Government Secretariat, members of the Forum of Commissioners and Special Advisers reiterated their unwavering support for Governor Adeleke, declaring their commitment to his vision of taking Osun State to greater heights.

    Speaking on behalf of the 35 commissioners and special advisers, Barrister Dosu Babatunde said, “We express our total solidarity and unwavering support for the Governor of Osun State and leader of the PDP in the state, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke.”

    Babatunde dismissed the rumours of mass defection, describing them as baseless and mischievous fabrications from opposition elements.

    “We read and heard with great consternation the many insinuations being mischievously bandied about by certain political quarters, particularly the opposition, about the looming mass defection of Executive Council members from the ruling PDP.

    “This is not only a political fallacy taken to the extreme but a careless and unguarded insinuation by the usual disgruntled members of the opposition,” he said.

    Read Also: We’ve not lost any genuine supporter of our project from 2022 to date — Adeleke

    He added that the people of Osun would once again demonstrate their support by re-electing Governor Adeleke in 2026.

    Responding to questions from journalists, Babatunde reaffirmed, “Governor Adeleke remains a PDP governor. Many other governors across Nigeria are applauding his developmental efforts in Osun State.

    “He is not moving to any other political party; it is even wicked to suggest such. We, the Executive Council members, are very close to him and have resolved to stay in the PDP and continue building it to greater heights. The Governor’s developmental strides will continue within the PDP.”

  • We’ve not lost any genuine supporter of our project from 2022 to date — Adeleke

    We’ve not lost any genuine supporter of our project from 2022 to date — Adeleke

    Amid the defection of Oluwole Oke, a member of House of Representatives for Obokun and Ori-Ade, Governor Ademola Adeleke has urged members of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to remain steadfast and avoid distractions.

    He noted that the ruling party had not lost any genuine supporters from 2022 to date, saying, “We know how we got to Government House and we know those God used to make it possible.”

    Adeleke in a statement through his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, said “We know those who worked openly or silently to stop us. We also know those who opposed us then but have now embraced our good governance mantra. We equally have a verified list of those who opposed us in 2022 and are still on the same line till now.

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    “My assurance to party members is that the PDP of 2025 now has an expanded membership base with so many decampees from the opposition. We have increased in strength and support. We have not lost any genuine supporter of our project from 2022 to date. Our good work has also gained for us more supporters, partners and men of goodwill across party lines.”

    He disclosed that his administration treats all Federal Constituencies fairly as they have three critical portfolios in his cabinet.

    “While asking PDP members to remain firm and united, Adeleke expressed appreciation for the gale of endorsements from various interest groups and particularly affirmed his steadfastness and frank focus to pursue the Imole agenda beyond 2026.”

  • 2026: Osun market heads, traders endorse Adeleke for second term 

    2026: Osun market heads, traders endorse Adeleke for second term 

    …commends Adeleke for construction of 29 roads in two years

    Market heads and traders in Osun State have officially endorsed Governor Ademola Adeleke for a second term ahead of the 2026 governorship election, citing his impressive development strides over the past two years.

    The endorsement came on Friday under the banner of the Association of Babalojas and Iyalojas of Osogbo/Olorunda Local Government Areas during an event held at Osogbo City Hall.

    Speaking on behalf of the association, the Babaloja-General, Chief David Ayoola, praised Governor Adeleke’s leadership, describing it as visionary and dedicated to economic development, particularly in trade and commerce — areas central to the association’s interests.

    “We proudly declare our unwavering support for the distinguished leadership and political excellence of Governor Ademola Adeleke,” Ayoola stated.

    Read Also: I left PDP because of national, Adeleke’s leadership failure – Wole Oke

    He commended the administration for constructing 29 roads since taking office, noting that the projects have significantly improved market access, eased local transportation, and boosted commercial activities across the state.

    According to him, “As we approach the 2026 Governorship Election, we wholeheartedly endorse Governor Ademola Adeleke for a second term. We are confident that his continued leadership will elevate Osun State to even greater heights in development, unity, and prosperity.”

    Governor Adeleke who was represented by his Special Adviser on Market, Mrs Eniola Omotosho lauded the association for recognizing the good works of his administration. 

  • Adeleke, Makinde begin peace moves over Oyo, Osun boundary disputes

    Adeleke, Makinde begin peace moves over Oyo, Osun boundary disputes

    Following inter-state communal war between communities in the Oyo and Osun states boundary, the governors of the two states, Ademola Adeleke and Seyi Makinde, have commenced peace moves.

    The Nation recalled that the communal war started weeks ago, leading to the destruction of property, including the houses of chiefs, hence Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed, raised alarm after the escalation of the clash.

    Subsequently, Adeleke in a statement through his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed disclosed that Osun governor with his Oyo counterpart, Seyi Makinde have waded into the incessant border clashes between Lagelu and Iwo local governments of both states ahead the release of the report of the National Boundary Commission (NBC).

    According to him, the two governors met over the dispute during the week and resolved on immediate actions which include a directive to the deputy governors of both states to meet and then visit the areas involved in the dispute.

    “The resolution which was reached at the Ibadan residence of Governor Makinde emphasised the need for peaceful engagement and resolution of all outstanding issues, charging the Deputy Governors to meet leaders of Lagelu and Iwo communities involved in the confrontation.

    Read Also: Adeleke seeks UK subnational investment

    “The deputy governors are also to look into other related boundary disputes, such as the recurring one between Orolu local government and Ogbomoso areas of the two states.”

    He noted that the governors called for restraints and cessation of reported raids into each other’s territories by aggrieved parties, insisting on due process and the rule of law in conflict resolution.

    “The National Boundary Commission had conducted a mediation visitation to the disputed areas to collate data from documentary and oral evidence to determine the exact boundary of the two states.

    “The federal agency has, however, not released its report despite several follow-ups by the stakeholders, creating a vacuum being exploited by violating groups.

    “In the last month, several villages in Iwo local government have been attacked, while the Lagelu groups also alleged attacks on their men and settlements.”

    Rasheed said Adeleke at the meeting emphasised the historical linkage between the two states, declaring that we are one and we must peacefully resolve any outstanding issues.

    “I commend my brother, Governor Seyi Makinde, on this proactive decision. Our deputy governors will take up the matter as a matter of urgency”, Governor Adeleke was quoted as saying.

  • Basiru rejects NES award in Osun, accuses Adeleke of undue interference

    Basiru rejects NES award in Osun, accuses Adeleke of undue interference

    National Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) Senator Ajibola Basiru, has rejected the award of Excellence in Leadership to be conferred on him by the Nigerian Economic Society (NES) Osun Chapter.

    He accused Osun State Government of manipulating the society following the abrupt postponement of the award over what he described as undue political interference and manipulation by the Osun State Government. 

    NES had in a letter dated April 7, 2025 by its Chairman, Prof. Adeleke G.  Aremo and Secretary, Adewale Sam-Aliyu intimated Basiru of the postponement of the award slated for Thursday 11th April, 2025, hinging their decision on unexpected turn of events, logistic and security complexities. No new date was fixed.

    Faulting the postponement and rejecting the award, Basiru in a letter by his Special Adviser,  Legal and Political Strategy, Barrister Othuke Amata Aso said the society has compromised the integrity of the award.

    Basiru criticizeid the NES for what he described as an unprofessional communication regarding the “postponement” of the ceremony, calling the letter “convoluted” and “hastily prepared.”

    Expressing dismay at the abrupt cancellation of the award, which was labelled a “postponement,” Basiru said the April 7 letter was lacking coherence and clarity.”

    The APC National Secretary alleged external interference as the primary cause for the cancellation of the award ceremony.

    According to him:  “Reliable sources within the ranks of the NES, Osun Chapter revealed that the pressure to cancel the award ceremony came from the Osun State Government, specifically Governor Ademola Adeleke.

    Read Also: Oyetola, Basiru, APC elders strategise for 2026 Osun guber poll

    “The real reason for this shameful retreat is the undue pressure and shenanigans exerted by the Governor of Osun State, Mr. Ademola Adeleke, on the leadership of your society.” 

    The APC Scribe accused the Osun State administration of lacking excellence and being politically motivated, specifically calling out what he  described as “mediocrity” and “cheap politicking” on the part of the state’s leadership.

    Basiru, who said he initially hesitated to accept the award due to skepticism towards honorary awards, accepted it after encouragement from well meaning colleagues, and friends.

    He rejected the recognition, stating that the actions of the NES Osun Chapter represent “a stain on its reputation” and a “disservice to the very ideals it purports to champion.”

    Basiru advised NES Osun State Chapter to find a way to redeem itself and rise above political influence, reinforcing that merit should not be “subverted by the whims of those in power.”

  • Adeleke, APC bicker over launch of N158b infra plan

    Adeleke, APC bicker over launch of N158b infra plan

    Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state have bickered over the launch of N158billion infra plan.

    Adeleke in 2023 launched N100billion infra plan and subsequently in March 2025 launched another N158billon phase of infra plan, noting that the first phase was a success.

    APC, through its Director of Media, Chief Kola Olabisi, yesterday alleged that the N100billion infra plan failed, yet Adeleke launched another N158billion plan, saying the governor should stop insulting the collective sensibilities of the people.

    He said: “The administration has failed to deliver on the previous plan of N100 billion infra plan. In October 2023, Governor Adeleke announced plans to build infrastructure worth N100 billion without borrowing, boasting of completing five flyovers by the end of 2024.

    Read Also: Adeleke appoints Adekilekun as Osun mortgage bank chairman

    “However, the flyovers in Okefia, Lameco and Ile-Ife are facing challenges, missing their completion deadlines, and are now at risk of being abandoned, while nothing has been done at Ikirun and Owode locations of the touted projects.

    “It would have been a tenable excuse if the government has resolved to focus on delivering the projects it already promised. Osun State deserves better. It’s time for the government to prioritise education, health care, agricultural development and rural road infrastructure.”

  • Osun PDP Rep tackles Adeleke over $20m petition to EFCC

    Osun PDP Rep tackles Adeleke over $20m petition to EFCC

    A member of the House of Representatives for Ijesa North, Oluwole Oke, who is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has berated Governor Ademola Adeleke’s petition of alleged misappropriation of $20milion levelled against former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola.

    Adeleke through his lawyer, Pelumi Olajengbesi, in a petition to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), accused the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Oyetola, of money laundering, financial misconduct and violations of the Public Procurement Act in the disbursement of grant meant for health sector improvement in the state.

    Oke, the chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and a fifth-term lawmaker on the platform of PDP, in a post on his Facebook page yesterday apologised to Oyetola over the petition, ‘’noting that it was written to EFCC by one of my supposed constituents.’’

    He said: “I am aware that some young unprofessional lawyers live on or specialise in writing petitions against public figures or well-to-do persons/members of OPS to either ICPC or EFCC and then go back to them to take briefs as their lawyers and extort huge sums from them.

    “It’s not in our character in Ijesa North to do so. It’s alien to our culture. Ijesa North has produced many brilliant lawyers, some of them are SANs. It’s not a crime for a lawyer to take a lawful brief from any member of the society or even government, but to intentionally take a brief to damage people’s reputations and those of their family is bad.

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    “Osun State House of Assembly has a standing Committee on Public Accounts on the legislative side. We also have an independent Office of Auditor General of Osun State created by the Constitution to check every government expenditure and report on same.

    “This AG report is laid before the state assembly on annual basis. Our governors also enjoy immunity while in office to avoid distractions. If the Office of Auditor General has done its job and report to The Parliament, then the Parliament should bring out their findings and if any person is indicted in that report, such a person can then be prosecuted. But to resort to blackmailing of our leaders is most uncharitable.”

    Oke added: “Those who pretend to be working for us may actually be plotting against us. We need peace in Osun State. How will the Federal Government believe or trust us that we truly want to collaborate or work together in 2026 and 2027? I come in peace.”

  • Fear of renewed hostilities grips Ifon, Ilobu communities

    Fear of renewed hostilities grips Ifon, Ilobu communities

    • Adeleke warns monarchs

    Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke yesterday raised the alarm over plot by some people to restart the Ifon-Ilobu communal war over land dispute.

    This is happening barely 24 hours after The Nation visited the warring communities during Eid-el-Fitr celebration and observed that the atmosphere was still tense and the animosity was still lingering despite the security measures put in place by the state government.

    The governor yesterday promised to dethrone the monarchs of the warring communities if they failed to maintain peace.

    A statement by the governor through his spokesman, Olawale Rasheed, said Adeleke warned traditional rulers of Ifon, Erin Osun and Ilobu communities that if they failed to sustain the current peace, he would dethrone them.

    He said: “During Sallah celebrations, I received reports of some people planning another round of conflict in Ifon, Ilobu and Erin Osun towns. Security agencies have been instructed to increase surveillance to ensure no attack is carried out.

    Read Also: Adeleke raises the alarm over plot to resume Ifon/Ilobu clash

    “They are also speeding up interrogation of key suspects in the conflict. I want to remind leaders of the towns that the peace undertaking they have signed is not for joke. They will be held accountable. There will be accountability before the law.”

    The governor added: “The curfew we relaxed was on humanitarian grounds. As a compassionate government, we know many innocent people are suffering because of the evil agenda of a few elements across the conflict areas. Any attempt to exploit the adjustment of the curfew for renewed violence will be met with full re-imposition of the 24-hour curfew.

    “Additionally, I will remove from office, any traditional ruler where violence reoccurs. This card is on the table. Royal fathers of the towns must call their subjects to order. I will wield the big stick. Enough is enough.”

  • Adeleke raises the alarm over plot to resume Ifon/Ilobu clash

    Adeleke raises the alarm over plot to resume Ifon/Ilobu clash

    Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke has raised the alarm over plots by some people to resume the Ifon and Ilobu communal clash over land dispute. 

    He spoke on Monday barely 24 hours after The Nation visited the warring communities on Eid-el-Fitr celebration and observed the tense  atmosphere and animosity despite tight security measures.

    Adeleke vowed to dethrone the Kings of the warring communities if they fail to maintain peace and allow the war to escalate again. 

    In a statement by his spokesman, Olawale Rasheed Adeleke ordered the traditional rulers of Ifon, Erin Osun and Ilobu communities to sustain peace and de-escalation of the crisis. 

    He said; “In the midst of sallah celebrations, I got reports of some people planning another round of conflict around Ifon, Ilobu and Erin Osun towns. The security agencies have tightened surveillance to ensure no attacks take place. 

    “The security agencies are also speeding up the interrogation of key chieftains and actors in the conflict. I will remind top leaders of the towns that the peace undertaking they are signing are not for joke. They will be held accountable. There will be accountability before the law.”

    He added: “The curfew we relaxed was on humanitarian grounds. As a compassionate government, we know many innocent people are suffering because of the evil agenda of a few elements across the conflict areas. Any attempt to exploit the adjustment of the curfew for renewed violence will be met with full re-imposition of the 24-hour curfew.

    “Additionally, I will remove from office, any traditional ruler where violence recurs. This card is on the table. Royal fathers of each town must call their subjects to order. I will wield the big stick. Enough is enough.”