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Tag: Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru

  • Basiru: Deploying legal knowledge in public service

    Basiru: Deploying legal knowledge in public service

    By Kodilichukwu Okelekwe

    Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, PhD, stands as a testament to the power of knowledge and the impact of dedicated public service.

    His journey is not just a personal narrative; it is an inspiring chronicle of resilience, intellectual rigour, and commitment to progressive politics in Nigeria.

    With a profound appetite for knowledge and an unwavering dedication to his constituents, Basiru has carved a niche for himself as a leading figure in Nigerian politics.

    Basiru’s academic journey is remarkable, underscoring his relentless pursuit of knowledge.

    He earned his L.L.B. (Hons) Bachelor of Laws from the prestigious University of Lagos, where his passion for law took root.

    His academic excellence propelled him to pursue further studies, resulting in an LLM (Master of Laws) with a focus on Secured Transactions, Planning & Compulsory Acquisition, Law of the Sea, and Comparative Company Law.

    This diverse academic foundation equipped him with a multifaceted understanding of legal frameworks crucial for navigating the complexities of governance.

    His quest for knowledge did not stop there; Basiru further achieved a Ph.D. in Property Law, solidifying his status as an authority in the field.

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    This academic rigour not only reflects his personal ambition but also demonstrates a commitment to fostering a legal landscape that supports social justice and economic development.

    His scholarly pursuits have informed his legislative agenda, enabling him to advocate effectively for laws that promote equity and justice.

    Senator Basiru’s political career is marked by a steadfast evolution through significant party affiliations, beginning with the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and advancing through the Action Congress (AC) and Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), culminating in his current role within the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    This trajectory reflects not only his adaptability in the face of changing political climates but also his unwavering commitment to progressive ideals.

    His journey is a testament to the belief that political affiliation should be a means to an end: the betterment of society.

    In a political environment often marred by instability and inconsistency, Basiru’s alignment with parties that champion democratic values and progressive governance underscores his dedication to fostering a Nigeria that thrives on transparency, accountability, and development.

    Basiru’s tenure as the Commissioner for Regional Integration and Special Duties, as well as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Osun State, laid a solid foundation for his political ethos.

    His focus on regional integration showcased his understanding of the importance of unity and collaboration among states, a vital aspect in a country with diverse cultures and interests.

    As Attorney General, he championed legal reforms aimed at ensuring justice and equity, addressing long-standing issues within the legal framework of Osun State.

    His efforts to enhance legal access and promote human rights have left an indelible mark, establishing him as a figure of integrity and competence.

    Throughout his political career, Basiru has exemplified the qualities of a true leader—integrity, vision, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of his constituents.

    Representing the Osun Central Senatorial District from 2019 to 2023, Senator Basiru made significant contributions to the Nigerian Senate.

    His leadership as the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Diaspora, Non-Governmental Organisations, and Civil Societies showcased his commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.

    He understood the importance of engaging the Nigerian diaspora and civil society in national discourse, recognising that their contributions are vital to nation-building.

    As the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Basiru served as the Senate spokesperson, where his articulate communication skills shone.

    He adeptly handled the Senate’s public relations, ensuring that the institution remained transparent and accountable to the Nigerian people. His ability to convey complex legislative matters in an accessible manner reinforced public trust in the Senate.

    As the current National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Basiru continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the party’s direction.

    His leadership position allows him to influence policies that align with the party’s vision for national development. His commitment to progressive governance and his deep understanding of legal frameworks position him as a crucial player in Nigeria’s political landscape.

    Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru’s journey is not just a personal story but a reflection of what is possible in Nigerian politics.

    His steadfast commitment to progressive ideals, coupled with his extensive experience in governance, positions him as a role model for aspiring politicians and citizens alike.

    As he continues to influence the political landscape, Basiru represents hope for a more accountable and responsive government. His story encourages us to believe in the power of consistency, integrity, and vision in the quest for a better society.

    Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, Ph.D., embodies the essence of a modern leader—an individual who values knowledge as a tool for empowerment and change.

    His academic achievements, political consistency, and legislative accomplishments reflect a life dedicated to public service and the pursuit of justice.

    As he continues to serve in various capacities, his journey inspires many to embrace education, remain steadfast in their principles, and engage actively in the democratic process.

    Senator Basiru’s story is a reminder that through knowledge and dedication, one can indeed make a meaningful impact on society.

    Dr. Okelekwe is the 2023 APC Senatorial Candidate for Anambra Central Senatorial District.

  • Be receptive to correction, Basiru tells Adeleke

    Be receptive to correction, Basiru tells Adeleke

    Governorship aspirant and National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, has criticised the administration of Governor Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke for its intolerance of constructive criticism.

    In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, Basiru decried what he described as the governor’s habitual attacks on those offering useful advice, insisting that he will continue to speak out for the good of Osun State.

    His reaction follows a recent rebuttal by the governor’s spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, who responded harshly to Basiru’s criticism of the government’s handling of socioeconomic issues in the state.

    Basiru, a former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Osun State and current chairman of the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), said Adeleke’s administration has shown from the outset that it craves praise, even for minimal achievements.

    “I will not relent in offering advice. What affects Osun affects me and many others. Unfortunately, this administration seems allergic to anything that is not praise,” he stated.

    The statement reads: “The reaction is yet another sad example of the administration’s inability to engage in constructive discourse. Instead of addressing clear failures, the government continues its descent into baseless abuse, theatrical name-calling, and hollow propaganda.

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    “It is important to remind the Adeleke administration that governance is not about trading insults but about responding to accountability with facts. A government that has failed across critical sectors cannot hide behind slogans and solar lights that barely last a week.

    “While the administration boasts of a 40 per cent debt reduction, it conveniently hides the fact that Osun’s federal allocation has increased by over 300 per cent. What the Adeleke government claims as financial discipline is simply the benefit of increased federal oil receipts, not strategic fiscal management and discipline.

    “Governor Adeleke has denied the widespread reports of teachers disengagement since assuming office. Why did Adeleke sack about 5000 teachers employed by his predecessor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola? 

    “Two and a half years after, why has he not engaged them again?. Senator Ajibola Basiru once said in an interview that APC doesn’t mind if Adeleke replaces all the 5000 with members of his party. What matters is securing the future of our children. Besides, Thursday, last week, made it exactly a year that Adeleke announced employment of temporary staff at the State-owned media. No employment letter has been issued to them till date.

    “The road commissioned with media fanfare was washed away within two days, a clear indictment of the substandard quality that defines this administration’s projects. The recurring cases of solar panel poles breaking within weeks and nonexistent borehole project across wards is a testament to how little value is placed on durability and transparency.

    “In a shocking display of poor planning, the government had to start digging under the Oke Fia flyover, because clearly trucks could not pass under. Is this the infrastructural revolution they boast about?

    “Osun people have yet to see any clear agenda for agriculture, water and sanitation, or market expansion. These are critical to livelihood. Yet Adeleke’s government has ignored them while focusing on showmanship and media stunts.

    “Adeleke’s handlers have made it a habit to resort to street-level abuse when called to account. This culture of insults and diversion cannot replace transparent governance. No self-respecting administration attacks its critics with gutter language instead of facts.”

    Reaffirming his resolve to continue to fight and promote the interest of the state, the Osogbo born politician said, “I remain undeterred. I will continue to speak out for Osun people and demand real leadership, not choreography, not excuses, and certainly not an abuse-laced response to legitimate questions.”

  • Why I want to succeed Adeleke, by Basiru

    Why I want to succeed Adeleke, by Basiru

    Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru Governorship Campaign Team on the platform of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has congratulated Governor Ademola Adeleke, who turned 65 this week.

    A statement on behalf of the campaign team by Prof Aderemi Ajala in Osogbo felicitated the Ede-born politician.

    The statement said: “We want to join the good people of Osun State to celebrate our governor and brother, Sen. Adeleke, as he turned 65. For us, we nurse no hatred against him, especially as he celebrates his birthday. So we congratulate him. The politics we are all involved in is because of the betterment of our state.

    “While we salute him on his birthday, we like to remind him that Sen. Surajudeen Basiru is contesting to unseat him because of the obvious lapses he has noticed in the current administration in our state. The governance of our state cannot continue to be entrusted in the hands of someone like Governor Adeleke.

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    We need a governor with idea and who is surrounded by development-driven individuals. He cannot continue to spend few days in Osun and the remaining days outside. We would have pardoned his frequent travels if he had capable hands to leave the administration with, but no. We have, together with our principal, consulted widely and this is why he has thrown his hat in the ring. He wants to salvage our people.

    “One does not need anyone to say it to know that Osun’s agricultural sector is almost dead. Nothing seems to be working under the current administration. No single company has been established or opened under this current tenure. Tourism in Osun is at its lowest patronage.

    “Our educational sector has nosedived. What do we expect when teachers are sacked and not replaced? The health sector is nothing to write home about. The money accrued to the state in the last 30 months has been spent recklessly. The state government should publicly come out to tell the people how their funds are spent.

    “A good leader doesn’t take the people to where they want; he takes them to where they ought to be. Our state is fast losing the gains of the past. So, while we wish him all the best life can offer, we like to remind him that Sen. Basiru is contesting to unseat him. And we know the outgoing governor will be proud of his predecessor when he takes over from him in 2026.”