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Tag: Oyo

  • Oyo gives concession on 1000 metres acquisition on Ibadan Circular Road Corridor

    Oyo gives concession on 1000 metres acquisition on Ibadan Circular Road Corridor

    As the ongoing protest by residents affected by the Ibadan Circular Road Corridor enters its second day, Oyo State Government yesterday said it had given concessions to limit acquisitions to 150 metres, instead of 500 metres in developed areas.

    The development was made known yesterday during a meeting held by the National Association of Public Affairs Analysts (NAPAA) with the Executive Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde on Oyo State New Towns and Cities Development Authority (OYNTCDA), Mrs. Mofoluke Adebiyi, and the media team of the governor, led by the Special Adviser on Media and Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Sulaimon Olanrewaju, in Ibadan.

    Adebiyi, a retired permanent secretary, who is the Head of OYNTCDA saddled with the responsibility of developing Ilu-Tuntun Smart City Project, which is a modern urban hub with smart infrastructure, said the government would limit the breadth of the road to 150 metres in developed portions of the corridor, while it would extend to 500 metres on either sides of the road in undeveloped areas.

    She said: ‘‘There is no new acquisition. When you listen to some radio stations, you will hear them saying Governor Makinde has snatched our land. No. Governor Makinde has not acquired a metre of land from that axis since 2019.”

    She said a former governor of the state, Senator Rashidi Ladoja, now Olubadan of Ibadanland, acquired 75 metres on both sides, making 150 metres for the road in 2005.

    Read Also: No teacher beaten to death in Oyo – Govt, NUT

    Adebiyi added that during the administration of former governor, Abiola Ajiimobi, particularly when Ibadan Master Plan was developed in 2017, the government acquired 425 metres on either sides of the road, making 850 metres and extended the acquisition to 500 metres on either sides, making a total of 1000 metres.

    “So, the breadth of that road is one kilometre, which is 500 metres on either side. The road itself is 60 metres. The other part of the road is 470 on each side.

    ‘‘Then, government has agreed to concede 150 meters in developed areas. In undeveloped areas, the status quo 500 metres will apply. But in appropriate places, compensations will be paid,” she said.

    Adebiyi explained what Global Certificate of Occupancy given by the government to OYNTCDA meant, saying: “The global CofO is to facilitate development and remove the encumbrances.

    “If your property falls within the developed areas, you can still apply for your own CofO. But the OYNTCDA has overall ownership of that area, just like Ibadan Local Government Properties has control of land ceded to that agency. That is the way government makes things really easy.”

    The Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dr. Olanrewaju, said: “No part of that corridor has been given to any real estate developer. No.

    “Don’t let us forget that Senator Ladoja paid compensation. In most of these cases, what we are facing is double compensation.

    “All of us that come from this state, let us know that it will be a disaster if the government spends billions of Naira to build that road, and we missed the opportunity to develop that area.

    ‘’If the government spends over N100billion to build 110 kilometres of road, and we missed the opportunity to develop that area, generations coming will not forgive us, because it would have been a wasted opportunity, and money put to wrong use.

    “If you drive from Lekki to Ajah in Lagos, look at both sides, what do you see? You will see real development. You will see companies. The companies did not just emerge, somebody saw the future, and prepared that portion of land for that particular development.

    “So, if you want Oyo State to develop, if you want our children to have jobs, if we want to attract investments; the kind that will activate accelerated development in this city, we need to support the government in bringing to reality the vision of the Circular Road.”

  • Ogun Pepe: Remembering invasion of Oyo

    Ogun Pepe: Remembering invasion of Oyo

    The people have begun the memorialization of the British attack on the ancient town of Oyo.

    The event, ‘Ogun Pepe,’ is a remembrance of the faceoff between the Oyo and British soldiers.

     Speaking during a press conference at the Atiba Hall, Oyo, the Chairman of the Memorialisation Committee, ’Ogun Pepe,’ Dr James Ojebode, who spoke on the programme, disclosed that the week-long activities would feature a series of activities including lectures, plays and religious activities.

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    According to Ojebode, the festival is a remembrance of the war between one of the past rulers of Oyo, Alaafin Adeyemi Alowolodu 1 and the British colonial forces.

    Going down the memory lane, Ojebode, disclosed that the conflict began when the Alaafin’s punishment of an Ilari from Iseyin provoked Captain Robert Lister Bower, the British Resident in Ibadan then.

    “Bower’s demand for submission of the Ilari and Kudefu was vehemently refused by the Alaafin, leading to a British invasion of Oyo on November 12, 1895. The People of Oyo, loyal to their king, resisted bravely but were eventually overpowered by superior British firepower. Alaafin, who was wounded, miraculously relocated to Oke-Owinni, later returned triumphantly after a peace treaty mediated by the Catholic Bishop of Oyo.

  • Oyo lawmaker calls for urgent intervention in Elepe–Awe land dispute to avert communal clash

    Oyo lawmaker calls for urgent intervention in Elepe–Awe land dispute to avert communal clash

    The Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the Executive arm of government to urgently wade into a long-standing land dispute between the Elepe Family of Oyo Town and leaders of the Awe Community in Afijio Local Government Area, to prevent a potential communal clash and ensure peace and order.

     The call followed a motion titled ‘Need for the Executive Arm of Government to Urgently Intervene in a Land Dispute Between the Elepe Family in Oyo Town and the Alawe Community Leaders, Awe to Prevent Communal Clash and Maintain Peace and Order,’ raised by the Chief Whip of the House, Hon. Gbenga Oyekola, representing Atiba State Constituency, during plenary on Thursday.

     Oyekola noted that the dispute, which dates back several decades, involves over 15,000 acres of land at Ahoro Iseke, spanning about 218 villages predominantly inhabited by Elepe farmers across Oyo West and Afijio Local Government Areas.

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     He recalled that the dispute has been a subject of litigation between both communities since the early 2000s. A judgment delivered in 2004 awarded portions of the disputed land — including Ijado, Ijefon, and Dapogudugu — to the Awe Community, a decision which the Elepe Family contested through an appeal.

     According to the lawmaker, the appellate judgment later created ambiguity over the exact boundaries to be allocated, thereby intensifying tension between the two sides.

     He expressed concern that despite the ongoing investigation by the Oyo State Real Properties Protection Agency, reports indicate that leaders of the Awe community are allegedly making moves to take possession of the land by force, insisting that Oyo indigenes vacate the area before the end of the week.

     Oyekola warned that failure to address the situation swiftly could result in violence, loss of lives, and destruction of property, urging the state government to take proactive steps to forestall any breakdown of law and order.

     The motion was seconded by the lawmaker representing Oyo East/West State Constituency, Olorunpoto Rahaman.

     However, the House, in its resolutions, urged the Executive arm of government through the Office of the Executive Assistant on Security Matters to immediately intervene and ensure peace is restored in the affected communities.

     It also directed the Oyo State Real Properties Protection Agency to expedite its investigation into the matter and submit its report to the House within three weeks.

     Additionally, the Assembly appealed to both the Elepe and Awe Community leaders to maintain the status quo and refrain from any actions that could escalate the conflict, while relevant law enforcement agencies were urged to mobilize personnel to the area to prevent unrest.

  • Only united APC can defeat PDP in Oyo – Adelabu

    Only united APC can defeat PDP in Oyo – Adelabu

    The 2027 All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in Oyo State Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has said only united party can defeat the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the State.

    The Minister urged members to set aside individual differences and embrace unity so that the party can come back to power in 2027.

    Speaking during a special visit and consultation to leaders, stakeholders and members of the party in Ibarapa region, the Minister of Power called on members of the party to open a new chapter, adding that Oyo State is a progressive state and must return to progressive fold in 2027.

    Ibarapa consists of seven towns, including Eruwa, Lanlate, Igboora, Idere, Ayete, Tapa and Igangan.

    Adelabu said:”No party can compete with APC in this state, we are progressive, our party must remain one and united.”

    Adelabu, while reacting to comment of party members in attendance, said the region will begin to see improvement in electricity supply because his Ministry has secured fund for completion of the three substation in the region.

    Read Also: Oyo 2027: Adelabu seeks support of TAMPAN, OAPs

    According to him: “Electricity in Ibarapa region is a major concern to me, I will complete the three substation before the expiration of my tenure as Minister of Power. Work will start on the substation in the next one week.

    “I have given Solar powered street light to the region and I will find solution to bad roads in the region if I become the Governor of the state.”

    Adelabu urged residents in the region to continue to support administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying Tinubu loves the nation and doesn’t want any pains for Nigerians.

    Some members of the party pledged support towards the gubernatorial ambition of Adelabu, saying APC will win in the State come 2027.

  • Oyo govt to conduct 2025 confirmation exams for 643 junior officers

    Oyo govt to conduct 2025 confirmation exams for 643 junior officers

    The Oyo state government has fixed September 30 for the conduct of confirmation examinations for no fewer than 643 junior officers in its workforce.

    Those involved include clerical assistants, clerical officers, store attendants, store keepers, judiciary staff, and other allied cadres.

    The exam is scheduled to take place at the Simeon Adebo Staff Development Centre, Secretariat, Ibadan.

    The Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Professor Salihu Adelabu, said all the 643 junior officers are expected to participate in the examination.

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    He said the confirmation examination will assess the officers’ understanding of the Public Service Rules 1 & 2 (2013), Financial Regulations, and Current Affairs.

    He maintained that the examination is a key part of the state government’s broader agenda to promote professionalism, discipline, and capacity building within the public service.

    “This exercise is a vital step in ensuring efficiency, accountability, and meaningful career progression in the civil service,” he stated.

    The commissioner urged all eligible officers to prepare thoroughly and ensure punctuality on the day of the examination.

  • Oyo Acting Gov Lawal visits family of slain journalist, promises support

    Oyo Acting Gov Lawal visits family of slain journalist, promises support

    Oyo State Acting Governor, Bayo Lawal, has paid a condolence visit to the family of Mr. Ojo Peter, an online media journalist killed by suspected armed robbers in Ibadan.

    During the visit to the late journalist’s wife and children, Lawal expressed deep sadness over the tragic incident that claimed his life.

    He was accompanied by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade; Commissioner for Public Works and Transport, Mojeed Mogbonjubola; and leaders of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State chapter.

    Lawal assured the bereaved family of the government’s support and urged journalists in the state to rally around their late colleague’s loved ones during this difficult period.

    Read Also: On annual textbook changes in Oyo schools

    “At this juncture, I have to pray that the Lord will comfort and be with you,” the Acting Governor said while addressing the family.

     “Ojo Peter was a professional, and he left us at his prime, though he had the prospect to become a better person in life.

    “As a government, we know the efforts he put into his work when he was still alive, and we appreciate that. That is why we have a lot of his colleagues here to console the family.

    “Whatever support that can be offered would be looked into, and we will get back to the family.

    “I also want to challenge all journalists here today to help this family come out of grief quickly, and the way to do that is to stand by the family.”

  • On annual textbook changes in Oyo schools

    On annual textbook changes in Oyo schools

    SIR: I am writing to draw attention to a pressing issue affecting parents, students, and the education system in Oyo State: the frequent and unnecessary annual changes to school textbooks, especially by private school owners.

    While schools may justify this practice as a means to update curricula or align with new standards, it places an undue financial burden on families, undermines sustainability, and does not always translate to improved educational outcomes.

    Each academic session, parents in Oyo State are compelled to purchase new sets of textbooks for their children, even when the content of these books differs only marginally from previous editions. This practice is particularly challenging for low- and middle-income families who struggle to afford these recurring costs. For example, a single textbook can cost between N5,000 and N15,000, and with multiple subjects, the expenses quickly become overwhelming. This financial strain often forces parents to prioritize basic needs over education, potentially impacting students’ access to essential learning materials.

    Moreover, the constant change in textbooks contributes to waste, as older editions are discarded despite being reusable. This practice contradicts efforts to promote sustainability and efficient resource use. It also raises concerns about transparency, as some schools may be influenced by publishers or other stakeholders to adopt new textbooks unnecessarily, potentially prioritizing profit over educational quality.

    Encouragingly, several other Nigerian states have already taken decisive steps to curb this issue, offering models Oyo State could emulate. For instance, Imo State has prohibited annual replacements, mandating textbooks for a minimum of four years in both public and private schools. Edo State similarly requires reuse for at least four years, while Ogun State enforces a six-year cycle before any changes, with sanctions for non-compliance.

    Enugu State reviews and approves textbooks for three-year periods, and Benue State has abolished non-transferable customized books to promote handover from seniors to juniors.

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    These policies not only alleviate parental burdens but also foster resource efficiency and consistent learning.

    While the Oyo State government has a responsibility to intervene and regulate this practice, I propose the following measures:

    – Standardize Textbook Usage: The government should establish a policy mandating schools to use approved textbooks for a minimum period (e.g., 3–5 years) unless significant curriculum changes justify updates.

     – Strengthen Oversight: The Ministry of Education should monitor schools to ensure compliance and investigate cases where textbook changes appear driven by commercial interests.

     – Promote Reuse and Affordability: This will encourage schools to implement textbook recycling programs and provide subsidies or free textbooks for indigent students.

    – Engage Stakeholders: Involve parents, teachers, and education experts in reviewing textbook policies to ensure they prioritize student welfare and learning outcomes.

    By addressing this issue, the Oyo State government can alleviate the financial burden on families, promote equitable access to education, and foster a more sustainable learning environment—much like its neighbouring states.

    I urge policymakers to act swiftly to regulate textbook changes and prioritize the interests of students and parents.  I hope this intervention sparks meaningful discussion and actions.

    • Alhazan Abiodun Rilwan, Ministry of Information, Ibadan, Oyo State.
  • Alaafin’s palace denies appointment of new Chief Imam in Oyo

    Alaafin’s palace denies appointment of new Chief Imam in Oyo

    The palace of the Alaafin of Oyo has dismissed reports claiming the appointment of a new Chief Imam for the ancient town.

    In a statement signed by the Director of Media and Publicity to the Alaafin, Bode Durojaiye, the palace urged the Muslim faithful and residents to remain calm, stressing that the selection process is still ongoing and involves wider consultations.

    “The attention of the Alaafin’s Palace has been drawn to wild speculations milling round that a new Chief Imam has been appointed for Oyo. The good people of Oyo and members of the public are advised to disregard such unfounded, baseless and wicked information, as no candidate has been chosen for the number one Islamic seat in Oyo town,” the statement read.

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    It further emphasised that only His Imperial Majesty, the Alaafin of Oyo, has the exclusive authority to appoint a new Chief Imam, assuring that the rightful choice will be made in due course.

  • Oyo govt bans ‘sign out’ celebrations, reaffirms phone ban in schools

    Oyo govt bans ‘sign out’ celebrations, reaffirms phone ban in schools

    The Oyo State Government has officially banned “sign out” celebrations by final-year students in all public and private schools across the state.

    The directive follows growing reports of misconduct, violence, and public disturbances linked to such events.

    Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Olusegun Olayiwola, announced the decision during the 2025/2026 pre-resumption meeting with secondary school principals held at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan.

    Olayiwola also reiterated the enforcement of the existing ban on mobile phone use by students, noting that the devices distract from learning, expose students to non-educational content, and contribute to cyberbullying and misconduct.

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    He commended principals for their commitment to shaping young minds while cautioning against unauthorized levies or illegal fees that could hinder access to education.

    He also emphasized punctuality, active teaching engagement, and the importance of maintaining safe, violence-free schools.

    The Commissioner further directed schools to recommend only government-approved textbooks that meet curriculum standards and are reusable, stressing that compliance will be closely monitored.

    In her goodwill message, the chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Mrs. Olubukola Oladipupo, encouraged constructive dialogue between teachers and authorities for the improvement of education.

    Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Mrs. Bamidele Oyinloye, reiterated the need for diligence and strict adherence to regulations in school management.

    Education stakeholders, including ANCOPSS State President Comrade Akinoye Christopher and NUT Chairman Comrade Raji Oladimeji, praised Governor Seyi Makinde for prioritizing teachers’ welfare and pledged their support for a successful academic year.

  • Oyo govt takes delivery of school facility from NNPC, other partners

    Oyo govt takes delivery of school facility from NNPC, other partners

    The Oyo state government on Thursday took over a school building facility constructed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited, TotalEnergies Limited, and other partners.

    The building, made up of two blocks of 12 classrooms, four laboratories, two libraries, two staff rooms, offices (for teachers, Principal, and Vice Principal), a water borehole, toilets, among other facilities, was constructed at the Ogbomoso Grammar School, Oke-Owode, Ogbomoso. The building was constructed in response to a need assessment effort carried out by the NNPC earlier.

    The event was attended by the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Laoye, who was represented by the Aare Ago of Ogbomosoland, High Chief Sobalaje Otolorin, who led other chiefs, a former Group General Manager (Human Resources), NNPC, Mrs Oyeyemi Ladipo, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr Olusegun Olayiwola, School Principals, teachers, students, and other stakeholders.

    Officials of the donor, NNPC, and other partners, including SAPETRO, CNOOC Exploration and Production Nigeria, Limited, Meren attended the event virtually.

    Speaking while receiving the massive storey-building, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Mr Olusegun Olayiwola, who doubles as the special guest of honor, thanked the donors for their contributions to the development of education in the state.

    He also appreciated the Alumni of the school for their contributions towards the development of the school, noting that philanthropists, corporate bodies, and non-governmental organizations have been playing significant roles in complementing the government’s efforts in the achievement of educational objectives in the state.

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    Speaking through the Permanent Secretary, Inspector-General of Education, Ogbomoso Zone, Dr Paul Oyedokun, said the importance and provision of adequate facilities in schools cannot be overemphasized, expressing confidence that the new facility will be of immense benefit to the current and prospective students, as it will facilitate the quality of teaching and learning in the school.

    He assured the stakeholders of the commitment of Governor Seyi Makinde’s readiness to transform and reposition the education sector in the state, noting that adequate measures have been put in place to track development.

    He said, “Let me inform you that the present administration under the leadership of the Oyo State Governor, Engr. Abiodun Oluwaseyi Makinde (FNSE) is ever-ready to transform and reposition the education sector in the State. As the Government and promoter of quality education, we have put in place measures to track the development of Education.

    “On behalf of the government, I wish to seek the cooperation and collaboration of all stakeholders of Education in this regard. This period calls for greater sacrifice from all, for us to bequeath a befitting future for our younger generation.

    Recounting the various transformative efforts of the Makinde administration, the Commissioner charged the staff and the management of the school to make adequate use of the facilities and ensure proper maintenance to encourage the facilitators to do more.

    Also speaking, the Managing Director of TotalEnergies Upstream Nigeria Limited, Matthieu Bouyer, who was represented by the Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility Strategy and Performance, TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited, Mr. Lucky Dekoor, said the company would continue to support the government and invest heavily in education to reduce the number of out-of-school children.

    The MD added that the donation was inspired by the desire to give quality education to children, noting that the initiative was in line with the Sustainable Development Goal of access to learning.

    He said, “This is an important programme which is inspired by the desire for quality education. Improvement in quality education would lead to a better outcome. This is to support the government in reducing the number of out-of-school children in Nigeria. It is in line with the Sustainable Development Goal. Access to decent learning in Nigeria. We will continue to invest heavily in the improvement of quality education in Nigeria to boost learning in the country’’

    Also, in a remark, the Head, Business Services (NUIMS) of NNPC Limited, Nkechi Anaedobe, said the facility represented the commitment of the oil firm to supporting educational development in the country, saying, “This facility is our commitment to support education and community development and to enhance educational experience for students. It will have lasting impacts on the community.

    In his brief remarks, the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, who was represented by the Aare-Ago of Ogbomoso, High Chief Sobalaje Otolorin, thanked the donor, noting that the building would be a catalyst for learning.

    On her part, a former Group General Manager, Human Resources of NNPC, Mrs Oyeyemi Ladipo, an indigene of Ogbomoso, thanked her former employer for the gesture and called on the students and teachers to make proper use of the facility.

    She said the project was donated to help provide quality education to pupils in Oyo State and environs, as a CSR initiative by TotalEnergies and partners, including NNPC Limited, Meren, SAPETRO, and CNOCC, aimed at improving the quality of teaching and learning at Ogbomoso Grammar School, Ogbomoso, Oyo State.

    She expressed confidence in the sustainable maintenance of the building going by the various efforts of the Makinde government at improving the educational sector.

    In her remarks, the school Principal, Dr Tolani Adewunmi, lauded the donor for the gesture, adding that education was key to changing the world, economic success, nation-building, and reconciliation. She assures that the facility would enhance teaching, learning, and overall development of the children.