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  • 2027: Aiyedatiwa convenes advisory council meeting

    2027: Aiyedatiwa convenes advisory council meeting

    • Akinyelure, Kekemeke lead GAC, preach unity among party members
    • APC elders applaud Aiyedatiwa’s leadership style, reinstate support for Tinubu’s re-election

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has convened the inaugural session of the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) in a bid to strengthen unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The council is chaired by former NNPC Limited Board Chairman and ex-APC National Vice Chairman, Pius Akinyelure, with the party’s National Vice Chairman (South West) and former Secretary to the State Government, Isaac Kekemeke, serving as Secretary.

    The inaugural meeting, held behind closed doors at the weekend, follows a recent caucus session convened by Aiyedatiwa at the Government House Banquet Hall in Alagbaka Akure.

    Party sources told The Nation on Sunday that the GAC’s mandate is to advise the governor on governance and strategies for the party’s growth ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Speaking after the meeting, Akinyelure said the forum was designed to bridge the gap between the ruling party and government.

    He lauded the governor for the initiative, saying the leaders are happy and have unanimously agreed to work together in ensuring the existing peace and unity in the party in the state are sustained.

    Read Also: No room for Obi, Atiku, Amaechi’s coalition in Ondo, says Aiyedatiwa

    “What we have basically discussed is the growth of the party and the success of the government, which is headed by Mr. Governor [Aiyedatiwa]. Ours is to bridge the gap, to make sure that the party grows and the government is successful.

    “Whatever is going on in government is exposed to the party, so that there can be a smooth relationship. I am not only satisfied, I am encouraged by the participation of our members”, Akinyelure said.

    Other APC leaders who attended the meeting also echoed similar sentiments. 

    Former APC National Vice Chairman (South West), Bankole Oluwajana, hailed Aiyedatiwa’s “receptive attitude” and commitment to accommodating diverse views.

    Oluwajana specifically mentioned that the ‘closed-door meeting’ encouraged frank discussions between the party leaders and Governor Aiyedatiwa.

    “One very commendable thing is the governor’s receptive attitude accommodating everyone, regardless of past views before he became governor.

    “There’s no room for disunity. The governor is for all of us. He is the leader of the party in the state, and we acknowledge that leadership,” he said.

    Former Senator for Ondo North, Prof. Ajayi Boroffice stressed the council’s role as an advisory and not dictatorial body, praising the governor for his fiscal discipline.

    “The main purpose of this meeting is to revitalise this Government Advisory Council. As a council, we are to advise Mr. Governor on issues concerning his policies and the unity of the party, and that is exactly what we have done. Those who have some issues raised them, and the Governor responded.

    “He has paid all salaries; he is not owing, has not borrowed, and has even paid part of the debts owed by the government over the years. These are commendable within this short time of his administration. The Advisory Council is to advise, not to dictate.

    “The Governor is the Chief Executive of the state and is to pick the best hands to help him achieve his goals. We can advise, but he has more information to take decisions that favour the government and the people.”

    Jamiu Ekungba and Awodeyi Apata commended the governor for convening the GAC meeting, stressing that it would strengthen the party in the state ahead of the next general elections.

    Hon. Kekemeke, the GAC Secretary, emphasised that the meeting resolved contentious issues and reaffirmed governor Aiyedatiwa’s position as the party’s leader in the state.

    He also cautioned that support groups must not act as alternatives to the party.

    “We restated the obvious fact that the governor is the leader of the party in the state. We also agreed that support groups, particularly presidential support groups, can continue to exist but cannot serve as alternatives to the party or be used to divide it. Support groups are meant to support the party and the presidential aspiration of our national leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    “We were satisfied with the governor’s performance and advised him on wider consultations with stakeholders. We concluded that our party is one, with no factions and advised on collegiate leadership at the local government level for more inclusive decision-making,” Kekemeke said.

    Other leaders at the meeting included former Deputy Governor, Alhaji Ali Olanusi, General Funso Oyenehin (rtd), Ambassador Sola Iji, Chief Bode Sunmonu, Hon. Mayowa Akinfolarin, Dr. Ayodeji Oyedele and Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti.

  • No room for ADC coalition in Ondo, says Aiyedatiwa

    No room for ADC coalition in Ondo, says Aiyedatiwa

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has said those flouting the coalition to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election are day dreamers and unserious politicians, who have no better plans for the country.

    Speaking yesterday while receiving Dayo Awude, a former deputy governorship candidate of the Labour Party (LP), into the fold of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akure, Aiyedatiwa said there was no room for the coalition of the opposition figures in Ondo.

    The governor said the APC remained the sole rallying force for credible politicians in the state ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa inaugurates committee to revitalise Ondo football clubs

    “In Ondo State, there is no room for coalition. It is one APC. People join political parties for different reasons, but the interest of the party must always supersede every other interest, and for us in the APC, that interest is to retain power,” he said.

    Aiyedatiwa praised the defectors led by Awude under the Sunshine Grassroots Network (SGN), saying they had made the right decision ahead of the general election to join the APC.

    He told the defectors to begin grassroots mobilisation in earnestly for the party ahead of the general election, saying APC must retain power at the federal and state levels.

    “You have made the right decision. This is the right place to be because the utmost interest for any political party is to be in power. For us in APC, we want to retain power, and we must do everything that is needed to retain power.

    “We acknowledge that you have decided to join us. Your coming will be rewarded. As you can see, the dividends of good governance are showing itself under the leadership of President Tinubu and I as your governor in the state.

    “Our declaration for Asiwaju is that Ondo State is for Tinubu in 2027. The whole of Ondo State is for Tinubu in 2027, and to realise this, you have decided to join us. We know winning Ondo State is not an issue but to have overwhelming votes, and you are the evidence of those votes,” he said.

    Awude, who ran alongside LP’s governorship candidate, Sola Ebiseeni, in 2023, said he joined the APC to add value, adding that he was willing to support President Tinubu and Governor Aiyedatiwa’s developmental agenda.

    Ade Adetimehin, the state chairman of the APC, who welcomed the defectors, urged them to strengthen the party from the grassroots.

    He also urged them to begin canvassing votes for the party, starting at their unit and ward levels.

    The latest defection marks a blow to the LP’s influence, especially in Ondo State and its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as political realignment intensifies ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Obi had joined Atiku Abubakar, former presidential candidate of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and ex-minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, to form the coalition of opposition figures in African Democratic Congress (ADC).

  • No room for Obi, Atiku, Amaechi’s coalition in Ondo, says Aiyedatiwa

    No room for Obi, Atiku, Amaechi’s coalition in Ondo, says Aiyedatiwa

    Ondo State governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has said that those flouting the coalition to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections are day dreamers and unserious politicians who have no better plans for the country. 

    Speaking on Monday while receiving Hon. Dayo Awude, a former deputy governorship candidate of the Labour Party (LP), into the fold of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akure, Aiyedatiwa declared that there is no room for the coalition of the opposition figures in Ondo. 

    The governor said that the governing APC remained the sole rallying force for credible politicians in the state ahead of the 2027 general election. 

    “In Ondo State, there is no room for coalition. It is one APC. People join political parties for different reasons, but the interest of the party must always supersede every other interest, and for us in the APC, that interest is to retain power,” he said. 

    Aiyedatiwa lauded the defectors, led by Awude under the Sunshine Grassroots Network (SGN), saying they have made the right decision ahead of the general election to join the APC. 

    He told the defectors to begin grassroots mobilisation in earnestly for the party ahead of the general elections, saying the APC must retain power at the federal and states levels. 

    “You have made the right decision. This is the right place to be because the utmost interest for any political party is to be in power. For us in APC, we want to retain power, and we must do everything that is needed to retain the power. 

    “We acknowledge that you have decided to join us. Your coming will be rewarded. As you can see, the dividends of good governance are showing itself under the leadership of President Tinubu and i as your governor in the state,” he said. 

    While likened the party’s confidence to “the evidence of good governance” under President Bola Tinubu and his own administration, the governor added that the latest wave of defections to the APC will deliver greater numbers” of votes for the party in the election. 

    “Our declaration for Asiwaju is that Ondo State is for Tinubu in 2027. The whole of Ondo state is for Tinubu come 2027, and to realise that, you have decided to join us. We know winning Ondo state is not an issue but to have overwhelming votes, and you are the evidence of those votes.”

    Awude, who ran alongside LP’s governorship candidate, Sola Ebiseeni in 2023, said he joined the APC to add value, adding that he was willing to support President Tinubu and governor Aiyedatiwa’s developmental agenda. 

    Ade Adetimehin, the state chairman of the APC, who welcomed the decampees, urged them to strengthen the party from the grassroots. 

    Read Also: We’re intentional in preventing emergencies, disaster, flooding in Ondo – Aiyedatiwa 

    He also urged them to begin canvassing votes for the party starting their units and wards levels. 

    The latest defection marks a blow to the LP’s influence, especially in Ondo state and its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as political realignment intensifies ahead of the 2027 general election. 

    Obi had joined Atiku Abubakar, former presidential candidate of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the former minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi to form the coalition of opposition figures in the African Democratic Congress (ADC). 

  • Aiyedatiwa sets up committee to revitalise Ondo football clubs

    Aiyedatiwa sets up committee to revitalise Ondo football clubs

    Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has inaugurated a five-member committee to oversee the State Football Agency Management Committee, as part of efforts to revitalise state-owned football clubs.

    The committee members are: Divine Ogbonnaya (General Manager), Segun Joseph, Awosakin Iluyomade (Football Association Representative), Iyabo Ajanaku, and Dapo Ajibade (Marketing Consultant).

    According to a statement issued on Friday by the governor’s spokesman, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the committee will manage the affairs of Sunshine Stars Football Club, Sunshine Queens Football Club, and Sunshine Stars Under-19 team.

    Read Also: Ondo: Aiyedatiwa’s govt open to constructive criticism, Ajanaku tells journalists

    Aiyedatiwa noted that the committee comprises individuals with diverse expertise in sports management and will operate directly under his office.

    “This development follows the Governor’s earlier promise to take necessary measures to ensure Sunshine Stars and Sunshine Queens’ swift return to the nation’s premier leagues,” the statement read.

    He tasked the ne

  • Ondo: Aiyedatiwa’s govt open to constructive criticism, Ajanaku tells journalists

    Ondo: Aiyedatiwa’s govt open to constructive criticism, Ajanaku tells journalists

    The Ondo state government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting constructive criticism and ethical journalism under the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

    The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, gave the assurance on Thursday while hosting members of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, led by their Chairman, Comrade Tosin Ajuwon, at his office in Akure.

    Ajanaku, who acknowledged the critical role of the media in a democratic society, encouraged journalists in the state to hold the Aiyedatiwa-led government accountable through fact-based and responsible reporting.

    “Do your job without fear. Ask questions, criticise constructively, and report responsibly,” the Commissioner said, emphasising that the current administration embraces transparency and accountability.

    He noted that, unlike previous administrations, the current government is determined to operate an open-door policy, using the Ministry of Information and Orientation as a vehicle to foster government-press relations.

    Commending the dedication and professionalism of journalists covering the activities of the present administration, Ajanaku expressed appreciation for the fair and balanced reportage by the media in the state.

    “You will have it better now than ever before. We consider you essential partners in development communication,” he added.

    He further assured that journalists would enjoy a more enabling environment under his leadership in the ministry, saying the government is committed to supporting their welfare and professional development.

    Also speaking, the ministry’s Administrative Secretary, Mr. Lanre Akarakiri, lauded the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel for their consistent support and pledged continued collaboration.

    Read Also: WAFCON 2024 : Aiyedatiwa rewards Falcons’ Demehin with N30m, house

    Comrade Ajuwon described the Correspondents’ Chapel as a crucial arm of the journalism profession in the state.

    He commended Ajanaku for his media expertise, noting that his background in print journalism would enhance communication between the government and the public.

    Ajuwon, however, formally invited the Commissioner to appear on the chapel’s flagship programme, The Platform, to speak on the ‘OUR EASE’ development mantra of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration and other governance issues.

  • Ondo NUJ urges Tinubu, Aiyedatiwa to tackle manpower shortage in federal, state media outfits

    Ondo NUJ urges Tinubu, Aiyedatiwa to tackle manpower shortage in federal, state media outfits

    Members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, have called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently address the severe manpower shortage at federal government-owned media organisations in the state — the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN Positive 102.5 FM).

    The Union also appealed to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to intervene in the staffing challenges facing state-owned media outlets, specifically *The Hope Newspaper* and the OSRC Media Group, to enhance their capacity for effective service delivery.

    The appeal was contained in a communiqué issued after the Union’s July Congress, which was held over the weekend in Akure and presided over by the State Chairman, Comrade Leke Adegbite. The document was made public on Monday.

    The congress, which drew members from various media chapels across the state, deliberated on a broad range of issues including politics, the economy, security, agriculture, the environment, and welfare.

    In the communiqué jointly signed by David Fidelis (Correspondents’ Chapel), Ebunoluwa Akinroyeje (OSRC/Orange FM), Kayode Animasaun (FRCN Positive FM), and countersigned by State Secretary Olaoluwa Meshack, the union expressed deep concern over what it described as the alarming shortage of staff in both federal and state media institutions.

    The Congress warned that the dwindling workforce in these establishments is already undermining effective media coverage and limiting the channels through which government activities and policies are communicated to the public.

    “It called on both the Federal and the Ondo State Governments to as a matter of necessity address the shortage of manpower across public owned media organizations in the state namely; FRCN, NTA, OSRC/Orange FM and The Hope newspaper, describing them as effective channels of promoting government’s activities and for effective public service delivery,” the communiqué read.

    The Union also raised an alarm over the dilapidated condition of the Ondo NUJ Press Centre’s main building, whose roof and ceiling were recently destroyed by a torrential downpour.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa to host Ondo-born Super Falcons star, officials after WAFCON triumph

    “The Congress expresses deep concern over the deplorable condition of the roof and ceiling of the Ondo NUJ Press Centre main building damaged by a rainstorm, and calls on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to urgently assist in renovating the affected structure for the benefit of journalists in the state,” it added.

    The Congress commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for appointing a seasoned journalist, Hon. Idowu Ajanaku, as the State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, while urging the new appointee to implement policies that will enhance strategic journalism practice across the state.

    On labour matters, the NUJ condemned the growing trend of staff casualization, especially among private media establishments, stressing that the practice violates international labour laws.

    It asked media owners to desist from exploiting journalists under the guise of temporary employment.

    While applauding members for their professionalism and ethical conduct, the union cautioned against the spread of misinformation, especially in the digital age influenced by artificial intelligence.

    “The congress applauded members of the pen profession in the state for their ethical reportage but enjoined them to be wary of fake news by always cross-checking the facts before going to the press, especially in these area of artificial intelligence,” it said. 

    The Union, however, applauded the re-elected executive members of the Ondo State chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), led by its chairperson, Comrade Tola Gbadamosi, and encouraged them to continue advocating for the rights of women and the girl-child across the state.

  • Aiyedatiwa to host Ondo-born Super Falcons star, officials after WAFCON triumph

    Aiyedatiwa to host Ondo-born Super Falcons star, officials after WAFCON triumph

    Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is set to host indigenes of the state who were part of Nigeria’s victorious Super Falcons squad at the just-concluded 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) tournament.

    The Super Falcons clinched their historic 10th continental title a fortnight ago, defeating host nation Morocco’s Atlas Lionesses in a thrilling final in Rabat.

    As part of celebrations to honour the state’s contribution to the national team’s success, Governor Aiyedatiwa will receive Super Falcons defender, Tosin Demehin, alongside two officials of the team who also hail from Ondo State.

    According to a statement released on Monday by the media office of the Ondo State Football Association (FA), the event is scheduled to hold at the Cocoa Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office, Alagbaka, Akure, this evening.

    Read Also: Court restrains Aiyedatiwa from appointing, installing monarch in Ondo community

    “Super Falcons defender, Tosin Demehin, will be hosted alongside two officials of the Super Falcons team who are of Ondo State origin,” the statement read.

    The Super Falcons’ victory has sparked nationwide celebrations, with many Nigerians praising the team for their unwavering resilience, discipline, and determination throughout the tournament – a performance that once again cemented Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football. 

  • APC chieftain celebrates Aiyedatiwa’s Appeal Court triumph

    APC chieftain celebrates Aiyedatiwa’s Appeal Court triumph

    Chief Gbenga Eleduma, a prominent businessman and stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, has congratulated Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on his  victory at the Appeal Court, which upheld his mandate as the duly elected governor of Ondo State.

    In a statement, Chief Eleduma described the court’s ruling as a powerful affirmation of the overwhelming support Governor Aiyedatiwa received from the people of Ondo State during the election.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa launches ‘Ondo for Tinubu 2027 movement

    He hailed the verdict as a shining victory for democracy, underscoring the trust placed in Aiyedatiwa’s leadership to propel the state toward a future of growth and prosperity.

    Eleduma commended the governor’s steadfast resilience and unwavering dedication to transformative governance, noting that the legal triumph further strengthens his mandate to fulfill his campaign pledges.

    “This victory belongs not only to Governor Aiyedatiwa but to every Ondo State citizen who cherishes the principles of democracy and the rule of law,” he said.

  • Court restrains Aiyedatiwa from appointing, installing monarch in Ondo community

    Court restrains Aiyedatiwa from appointing, installing monarch in Ondo community

    The Okitipupa Division of the Ondo State High Court has restrained Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa from appointing or installing any monarch in Alagbon Community in oil-rich Ugbo Kingdom of Ilaje Local Government Area of the state.

    The interim order was issued on Friday by Justice Temitope Adedipe, who barred all defendants in the case from taking any further action that could prejudice the outcome of the ongoing suit.

    The court’s intervention followed the confirmation during Wednesday’s State Executive Council (SEC) meeting presided over by Governor Aiyedatiwa, of Prince Olusola Joseph Ajaka as the pioneer Gbogunron of Idi-Ogba Alagbon.

    Speaking after the meeting, the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Amidu Takuro, had announced Ajaka’s appointment, stating that it followed due process and was based on recommendations from the appropriate traditional institutions.

    However, in swift reaction, leaders of the Alagbon community approached the court seeking to halt the governor’s actions and nullify all steps already taken.

    Ruling on a motion filed by D.J. Ayenowo of Sola Ebiseni and Associates, in Suit No. HOK/76/2022, the court granted an interim injunction restraining the Ondo state government, its agents, or privies from taking any steps toward appointing an Oba under any title in Alagbon Community, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice for interlocutory injunction and the final resolution of the case.

    Read Also: Appeal Court upholds Aiyedatiwa’s victory

    Defendants in the suit include the Governor, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the Secretary to Ilaje Local Government, and the Olugbo of Ugbo, Oba Enitiolorunda Obateru Akinruntan.

    The plaintiffs – High Chief Isaiah Adewole Demehin, a former Commissioner for Information and Asogbon of Ugboland, and Chief Mallon Ogede, the Baale of Alagbon are challenging the state government’s attempt to install a monarch from the Gbogunron family.

    The community also alleged that a commissioner in the state from the Gbogunron family unduly influenced the government to impose its family on the community.

  • Aiyedatiwa launches ‘Ondo for Tinubu 2027 movement

    Aiyedatiwa launches ‘Ondo for Tinubu 2027 movement

    Ondo Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has declared unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. 

    Speaking on Friday at a special meeting of the Ondo State Leaders Caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akure, Aiyedatiwa praised President Tinubu for his bold and administrative economic reforms, most especially in the petroleum sector and monetary policy. 

    He explained that the state has benefited immensely from the president, stressing the need to begin a grassroots political support for his re-election bid. 

    The Governor, who canvassed the need to strengthen the APC in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections, launched the ‘Ondo for Tinubu 2027 Movement in order to begin grassroots mobilisation. 

    “We don’t have any pending governorship election here in Ondo State. Therefore, we have to focus all our efforts on mobilising grassroots votes for the re-election of the President in 2007.

    “It is granted that the President will win the election. However, for us in the South West and Ondo State, the victory must be overwhelming,” Aiyedatiwa declared.

    Read Also: Appeal Court upholds Aiyedatiwa’s victory

    He added the decision of the National Economic Council to launch the Renewed Hope Ward Development Progrmamme is aimed at taking development further to the grassroots. 

    Further addressing party stakeholders after an interactive session, the governor emphasised the need for unity among the APC members in the state and reaffirmed the supremacy of the party in the state’s political affairs.

    According to him, all groups within the party must operate under its leadership and that the newly reconstituted Caucus would meet regularly.

    “Our strength lies in our unity, and all of us as leaders of the APC in the state must come together to build on the foundation already laid.

    “Because we are heading towards general elections, it is expected that various support groups will spring up. However, all groups must be under the leadership of the Central Party structure, which has the State Working Committee and the State Caucus as core components.”

    He also used the occasion to intimate the party leaders with the efforts of his administration towards the development of the state, particularly since he was sworn into office in February.

    Addressing journalists after the meeting, the member representing Akure North/South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Derin Adesida said that the gathering was enshrined in the APC constitution to enable leaders to meet and deliberate on the party’s future.

    Also, a stalwart of the APC in the state, Ambassador Sola Iji, commended the givernor for conveying the meeting, saying the constitutional caucus meeting is primarily reserved for top echelons of the party. 

    The Nation reports the Caucus later appointed the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, and the State Secretary of the APC, Mrs. Roseline Okafor, to coordinate the state secretariat of the Caucus. 

    Those who attended the meeting included the Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, and two of his predecessors, Alhaji Ali Olanusi and Lasisi Oluboyo.

    Others included Senator Jide Ipinsagba of Ondo North and Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire of Ondo Central, as well as former Senators Titus Olupitan and Remi Okunrinboye. 

    The Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt Hon Olamide Oladiji, former Speakers Kenneth Olawale, Victor Olabimtan, and Bamidele Oleyeloogun were also in attendance. 

    Also, the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Ololade Gbegudu, former Deputy Speakers Dare Emiola, and Abayomi Akinruntan graced the meeting. 

    Other are: Members of the House of Representatives – Hon. Abiola Makinde, Hon. Jimi Odimayo, Kolawole Babatunde and Tajudeen Adefisoye, and Hon Gbenga Elegbele were present. 

    The party leadership in the state was led by the Chairman, Engr Ade Adetimehin. Former Chairmen of the defunct ACN, Mrs. Jumoke Ajasin-Anifowose among several others. 

    Photos at the Friday’s Caucus meeting held at government house Banquet Hall in Akure.