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Tag: Makinde

  • UPDATED: Makinde presents staff of office to new Alaafin as coronation holds in four weeks

    UPDATED: Makinde presents staff of office to new Alaafin as coronation holds in four weeks

    Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, has presented the instruments of office to the new Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade.

    The event took place on Monday at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s Office, Oyo State Secretariat, Ibadan.

    Speaking at the event, the governor said the Alaafin’s stool is important not just to Oyo town but to the Yoruba race as a whole.

    The governor maintained that he decided not to meddle in the appointment of the new Alaafin because of his administration’s belief in openness and transparency.

    He warned those who are still hell-bent on destabilising the traditional institution in Oyo, saying the government is not letting down. 

    He said he will prosecute Chiefs who allegedly collected money in the process of the selection, adding however that, he will only forgive them if they seek the forgiveness of the new monarch.

    Makinde said: “The Alaafin stool is very important not just to Oyo Town or Oyo State but the entire Yoruba race. So, under my watch, I made it very clear that the stool would not be for sale. It is not a stool for us to toil with.

    “I met Prince Owoade for the first time in my life yesterday. I never spoke to him in my entire life until yesterday. I did not know his profile or the profile of any of the princes vying for the stool and it was deliberate, because I did not want my opinion to influence the process.

    “Let me say this clearly; when we came in 2019, we had challenges with the traditional institution in Ibadanland and it has been resolved to everybody’s satisfaction.

    “When it was time for us to approve the selection of Okere, some people came to me and said ‘This is our friend’. They said one person is APC and I said it does not mean anything to me whether you are PDP or APC. Why should my decision be based on political consideration? So, I approved the selection of the Saki kingmakers.

    “I always tell people not to kill themselves over politicians, because we see ourselves in the night. We go to each other’s houses. Politics, electioneering is a game. It’s only when you have been elected, then governance becomes a serious business because you will take decisions that will affect millions of people. So, we will not play politics with governance.

    “The Alaafin stool became vacant in 2022. We were moving towards election and people said, you have to approve the appointment of Alaafin, otherwise, Oyo people would not vote for you. I said the people should not vote for me but that I would do what was right and Oyo voted for me massively. Oyo will continue to support me.

    “Let me also say briefly that those that are still hell-bent on destabilising the traditional institution in Oyo, the government is not letting down. We will prosecute them. The money they collected; they will still be prosecuted except they go to Kabiyesi. If he forgives them, I will also forgive them.”

    While congratulating the new monarch, Governor Makinde prayed that his reign would bring peace and progress to Oyo Town, Oyo State and the Yoruba race.

    “The coronation would be in four weeks. From today, we have an Alaafin. I congratulate the Alaafin of Oyoland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade. I pray that your reign shall bring unity to Yoruba race wherever they may be around the world.

    “I pray it would also bring progress and development to Oyoland, Oyo State as well as Yoruba race in general,” Governor Makinde added.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Makinde presents certificate, staff of office to Alaafin

    In his response, Alaafin Owoade promised to work for the progress of Oyo Town, Oyo State and Nigeria as well as the development of the people.

    He thanked the Governor, the Oyomesi and everyone that worked for his selection and assumption of office as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo.

    Earlier in his speech, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon Demola Ojo, lauded the Governor for his determination to ensure that the right processes were followed in the selection of the new Alaafin.

    He also thanked those involved in the selection process.

    In attendance at the event were the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal; a former Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; member representing Oyo East/Oyo West House of Assembly, Hon. Rahman Olorunpoto; Awise Awo Agbaye, Professor Wande Abimbola and his wife, Iyanifa Ajisebo Abimbola; some members of the Oyomesi as well as traditional rulers in Oyo Kingdom.

    Top government functionaries in attendance included the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Olanike Adeyemo; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Otunba Segun Ogunwuyi; Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni, and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Joel Ajagbe.

  • Alaafin: Makinde vows to prosecute chiefs accused of bribery in Gbadegesin selection

    Alaafin: Makinde vows to prosecute chiefs accused of bribery in Gbadegesin selection

    Governor Seyi Makinde has threatened to prosecute and punish all chiefs or kingmakers within Oyomesi or others, who might have collected bribe or gratification in the selection process that culminated into emergence of Prince Lukman Gbadegesin.

    He said any chiefs found guilty of alleged collection of bribes during the selection process would face prosecution.

    Recall that five kingmakers (Oyomesi) have declared the appointment of Prince Owoade as new Alaafin by the governor as null and void because they did not recommend such a name to the state government, insisting that the only person they recommended as the next Alaafin was Prince Luqman Gbadegesin.

    But the governor while presenting staff of office and certificate to new Alaafin of Oyo, Prince Akeem Abimbola Owoade in Ibadan at the Oyo State Government House, emphasised on transparency and accountability in the selection process of new monarch.

    The governor described the Owoade as a leader poised to upholding the cultural and historical heritage of the Oyo Kingdom, noting that the Alaafin of Oyo is not just a traditional ruler but a custodian of rich history and tradition.

    “I believe that Oba Akeem Abimbola Owoade will lead with wisdom, integrity, and a commitment to the unity of the Oyo kingdom.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Makinde presents certificate, staff of office to Alaafin

    In his response, Owoade expressed gratitude to the people of Oyo and promised to prioritise the development of the kingdom and the welfare of the residents.

    Owoade was accompanied by a delegation of his subjects from Oyo town, marking a significant moment in the State’s traditional leadership history.

    He however pledged to usher in a new era of leadership, with a focus on cultural preservation, youth development, and economic growth in the Oyo Kingdom.

    Meanwhile, when contacted, the Bashorun of Oyo and head of Oyomesi, High Chief Yusuf Akinade said their lawyer should be contacted for reaction, saying he has nothing to say for now since the case is currently in court.

    “I don’t know anything about it, I’m not around, whatever you want to know, you can contact our lawyer because the case is currently in court, so, I can’t say anything outside the court. I’m the Bashorun, I’m not aspiring to become the Alaafin”, he said. 

  • BREAKING: Makinde presents certificate, staff of office to Alaafin

    BREAKING: Makinde presents certificate, staff of office to Alaafin

    Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde has presented the staff and instrument of office to the new Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade.

    The Governor presented the staff of office to the new Monarch during a brief eventat the Exco Chambers of the Governor’s office, Secretariat Agodi Ibadan on Monday.

    Among those at the event were Deputy Governor Bayo-Lawal; former Oyo Speaker Senator Monsurat Sunmonu;  some High Chiefs from Oyo Town and religious leaders. 

    Read Also: Tinubu, Makinde, Adeleke for Akintola’s memorial lecture in Ogbomoso

    The Awise Awo Agbaye, Prof. Wande Abimbola, the revered Ifa Custodian, who performed Ifa divination for the selection of the new Alaafin, was also among the distinguished guests.

    Members of the Oyomesi were however absent at the event.

    Details shortly…..

  • Tinubu, Makinde, Adeleke for Akintola’s memorial lecture in Ogbomoso

    Tinubu, Makinde, Adeleke for Akintola’s memorial lecture in Ogbomoso

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde, and his Osun counterpart Ademola Adeleke are expected at this year’s ‘Samuel Ladoke Akintola Memorial Lecture and Colloquium’ organised  by Samuel Ladoke Akintola Memorial Foundation.

    The event, billed for January 16,  2025 at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso will also have attract former Oyo Governor Rasidi Ladoja: Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba. AbdulRasheed Adewale Akanbi and an Ibadan chief, Oloye Lekan Alabi among others.

    A statement by spokesman for the Foundation, Yemi Adedokun said the event will be a significant event and gathering of influencial leaders and stakeholders, particularly key political figures from Southwest region.

    According to him, Samuel Ladoke Akintola Memorial Foundation is organising the colloquium to honor the legacy of the late politician and to foster discussions on pressing issues affecting the region.

    He stated that the gathering will underscores continuity of leadership and the shared vision among past and present leaders in addressing the challenges facing their constituencies.

    He said, “Cultural representation will also be prominent, with the Oluwo of Iwoland, Oba AbdulRasheed Adewale Akanbi, attending the event. 

    “His participation highlights the importance of traditional institutions in the sociopolitical discourse and their role in community development initiatives.

    “The Samuel Ladoke Akintola Memorial Lecture and Colloquium serves not only as a memorial but also as a platform for dialogue on governance, development, and the empowerment of individuals within the region. It is an opportunity for leaders to share insights, strategies, and visions for a better future.”

    Adedokun said the event will contribute positively to the ongoing discourse on regional development and unity among the Southwest States.

  • Makinde commiserates with Okere of Saki over wife’s death

    Makinde commiserates with Okere of Saki over wife’s death

    Oyo state governor, Seyi Makinde, has expressed condolences to the Okere of Sakiland, Oba Khalid Olabisi, over the death of one of his wives, Olori Waliyat Abimbola.

    The governor commiserated with the monarch and the people of Saki, praying to God to grant repose to the soul of the deceased Olori.

    He also prayed to Allah to grant the monarch and his family the fortitude to bear the loss.

    Read Also: Children stampede: Makinde insists on prosecution of suspects

    According to the governor, “the death of a loved one is always painful, but we can only submit to God who gives and takes life.

    “I condole with Kabiyesi Okere and pray that Allah SWT will uphold him and his household as well as his domain.”

  • Makinde charges militarry on better security 

    Makinde charges militarry on better security 

    Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has charged the Nigerian Military to intensify its efforts in 2025 to combat terrorism, kidnapping, armed banditry, and other security threats that could hinder the country’s economic development.

    The governor made this call during the closing ceremony of the 2024 Base Sociocultural Activities (BASA) and Veterans’ Parley of the 655 Nigerian Air Force Station in Ibadan.

    Represented by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, Governor Makinde reflected on 2024 as a successful year, expressing appreciation for the military’s pivotal role in maintaining peace and security in the state throughout the year.

    He reaffirmed the Oyo State government’s commitment to providing necessary support to ensure the safety of lives and property in the region.

    In his address, the Commander of the 655 Nigerian Air Force Station, Air Commodore George Akinyimika, expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde for his ongoing support of military  activities. 

    He recognised the strong collaboration between the Nigerian Air Force, the Oyo state government, the Nigerian Army, and other security agencies.

    Read Also: Children stampede: Makinde insists on prosecution of suspects

    Air Commodore Akinyimika further commended the vision of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, in fostering a motivated force through a robust welfare measures. 

    He also acknowledged the dedication of officers, airmen, airwomen, and their families for their continuous sacrifices in service to the nation.

  • Ibadan Airport will be viable, says Makinde

    Ibadan Airport will be viable, says Makinde

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde says one of his priorities this year for the state is the completion of upgrade of Ibadan Airport to international standard.

    Makinde, who spoke yesterday, said although he had been getting much banter on the viability of the facility, efforts being put in place so far by his administration would make the airport viable and compete favourably with Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos.

    He made the remarks at the Annual Thanksgiving Service held at Rehoboth Cathedral, Victory Land Complex, Oluyole Estate Extension, off Ring Road, Ibadan.

    Makinde said the airport was originally designed to be an alternative to the one in Lagos.

    He took the opportunity to disclose some goals his administration was hoping to work on this year.

    The governor thanked the church and people of the state for their prayers and intercessions, which he noted helped his administration to sail through 2024 safely.

    Makinde said “I will like to say thank you to the church for remembering the administration every time in your prayers, because it’s a tough environment. If not for the prayers, for the intercessions, we wouldn’t have been able to make some of this progress that you see and say, well, you have a government.

    Read Also: Makinde approves appointment of 45 Perm Sec, three others

    “You have been a source of joy and inspiration to us as an administration for this past almost six years now. When we started, not up to seven months, COVID-19 hit the world.

    “It was an uncharted territory we had to manage through. And with prayers and words of encouragement from the church and also several other lovers of this administration, God has sustained us up till this moment. So, please don’t relent. 2025, we’re in this together.’’

    Bishop Taiwo Adelakun urged the people to be thankful to God, noting that a thankful heart would receive more from God.

  • Makinde approves appointment of 45 Perm Sec, three others

    Makinde approves appointment of 45 Perm Sec, three others

    • Distribution of appointment letters to 5,600 new teachers begins Monday

    Governor Seyi Makinde has approved 45 new Permanent Secretaries, and three Executive Secretaries into relevant sectors of the state.

    The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade made the disclosure in a statement on Friday.

    According to a document which was signed by the Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, 16 Permanent Secretaries were deployed into the mainstream, six newly appointed Inspectors General of Education, six Permanent Secretaries into the health sector, seven new Permanent Secretaries into the local government sector, one new Permanent Secretary/Clerk of the House of Assembly, a newly appointed Surveyor General and nine newly appointed Tutors General.

    Oyelade said: “This new set of appointments is unique and a clear break from the norm where the mainstream civil servants enjoy the virtual monopoly of being appointed as Permanent Secretaries.

    Read Also: Police promise to arrest killers of ex-controller of works in Ilorin

    “This time, Governor Makinde has approved for Local Governments to have more Permanent Secretaries than the usual token in the past.

    “Seven new Permanent Secretaries have now been approved in the Local Government sector.”

    The Commissioner noted that the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) will now have zonal Executive Secretaries.

    Similarly, the health sector will have Permanent Secretaries to head their zones instead of the usual Heads of Hospitals.

  • Makinde approves appointment of 45 Perm Sec, three ES

    Makinde approves appointment of 45 Perm Sec, three ES

    Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde has approved 45 new Permanent Secretaries, and three Executive Secretaries into relevant sectors of the State.

    The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade announced thus in a statement on Friday.

    According to a document which was signed by the Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, 16 Permanent Secretaries are deployed into the mainstream, six newly appointed Inspectors General of Education, six Permanent Secretaries into the health sector, seven new Permanent Secretaries into the local government sector, one new Permanent Secretary/Clerk of the House of Assembly, a newly appointed Surveyor General and nine newly appointed Tutors General.

    He said: “This new set of appointments is unique and a clear break from the norm where the Mainstream civil servants enjoy the virtual monopoly of being appointed as Permanent Secretaries. 

    “This time, Governor Makinde has approved for Local Governments to have more Permanent Secretaries than the usual token in time past.

    “As a matter of fact, seven new Permanent Secretaries have now been approved in the Local Government sector.”

    Read Also: Makinde’s wife seeks proper immunisation, breastfeeding of babies

    The Commissioner noted that the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) will now have zonal Executive Secretaries.

    Similarly, the health sector will have Permanent Secretaries to head their zones instead of the usual Heads of Hospitals.

    The Commissioner recalled that over 23,000 government workers have been recruited and over ₦143 billion will be paid yearly to government workers from this month which makes Oyo a frontline state in the welfare of workers throughout the Federation. 

  • Makinde approves appointment of 45 Perm Sec, three ES

    Makinde approves appointment of 45 Perm Sec, three ES

    Governor Seyi Makinde has approved 45 new Permanent Secretaries, and three Executive Secretaries into relevant sectors of the state.

    The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade made the disclosure in a statement on Friday.

    Read Also: Makinde’s wife seeks proper immunisation, breastfeeding of babies

    According to a document which was signed by the Head of Service, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, 16 Permanent Secretaries are deployed into the mainstream, six newly appointed Inspectors General of Education, six Permanent Secretaries into the health sector, seven new Permanent Secretaries into the local government sector, one new Permanent Secretary/Clerk of the House of Assembly, a newly appointed Surveyor General and nine newly appointed Tutors General.

    He said: “This new set of appointments is unique and a clear break from the norm where the Mainstream civil servants enjoy the virtual monopoly of being appointed as Permanent Secretaries. 

    “This time, Governor Makinde has approved for Local Governments to have more Permanent Secretaries than the usual token in time past.

    “As a matter of fact, seven new Permanent Secretaries have now been approved in the Local Government sector.”

    The Commissioner noted that the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) will now have zonal Executive Secretaries.

    Similarly, the health sector will have Permanent Secretaries to head their zones instead of the usual Heads of Hospitals.

    The Commissioner recalled that over 23,000 government workers have been recruited and over ₦143 billion will be paid yearly to government workers from this month which makes Oyo a frontline state in the welfare of workers throughout the Federation.