Why I support Tinubu, APM in Oyo, ex-Adelabu aide hits back at APC

 

Former Personal Assistant to the erstwhile  Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, Ajiboye Akande Sangogade, popularly known as BoyeNation, has dismissed allegations by the Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) that his group is engaging in political double-dealing by supporting President Bola Tinubu while identifying with the governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi.

While reacting to a statement by the Oyo APC Publicity Secretary, Olawale Sadare, he described the allegation as a misunderstanding of democratic freedom and independent political judgement.

The APC had reportedly accused members of the group of creating political confusion following the circulation of campaign vehicles displaying the images of President Tinubu alongside those of Adekanmbi, with references to both the APC and APM.

However, BoyeNation maintained that supporting Tinubu at the national level does not mean surrendering the right to independently assess and support candidates at the state level.

He argued that democracy does not require voters to endorse every candidate belonging to the same political party, stressing that candidates should earn public support through competence, credibility, character and achievable development plans.

"Politics should not be confused with reality. Political parties are vehicles for democratic participation, not institutions that own the conscience, judgement or voting rights of Nigerians. Supporting President Bola Tinubu does not mean surrendering one's right to assess other candidates independently," he stated.

He further argued that political loyalty should not replace critical thinking, insisting that Nigerians have the right to support candidates whose leadership capacity and programmes they consider beneficial, regardless of party affiliation.

BoyeNation also cautioned against intimidating individuals and political groups for expressing independent political preferences, noting that national and state elections involve different leadership considerations.

On the Oyo governorship election, he expressed support for the APM candidate, Hon. Bimbo Adekanmbi, describing him as capable of sustaining the state's development direction. He maintained that continuity in governance should be determined by a candidate's competence, experience and ability to improve on existing achievements.

He challenged the APC to focus on presenting convincing candidates and development policies rather than attempting to dictate the political choices of individuals and groups.

According to him, elections should be about performance, credible leadership and the welfare of the people, not automatic endorsements based on party identity.

He urged political parties to embrace democratic engagement and allow the electorate to make independent decisions through the ballot box.

"Our position is simple: support should be earned, not demanded. The people of Oyo State deserve the freedom to make political decisions based on their understanding of the issues and what they consider to be in their best interests," he declared.

REJOINDER: SENATOR ALLI'S IGNORANCE ON TAX MATTERS EXPOSED AGAIN - MAKINDE REMAINS A PEOPLE-FRIENDLY GOVERNOR

By Dayo Ogunbowale

The attention of the Oyo State Government has been drawn to the latest press statement credited to the APC gubernatorial candidate, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, accusing Governor Seyi Makinde of failure to domesticate the Tax Harmonisation Law.

Ordinarily, we would have ignored another episode of his campaign of falsehood, but it is important to set the record straight for the unsuspecting public and to advise the Senator to hire a competent researcher and fact-checker for his media campaign, to prevent him from committing further avoidable blunders and shooting himself in the foot.

FACT 1: Governor Makinde Will Never Add To The Burden Of Oyo People

Senator Alli's claim that Oyo residents are suffering under multiple taxation under Governor Makinde is a blatant lie that collapses in the face of verifiable facts. Governor Seyi Makinde is a people-friendly Governor whose entire economic philosophy is built on NOT burdening the people.

Evidence:

1.  No New Taxes in 6+ Years: Governor Makinde has repeatedly declared, most recently 11 months ago in a media chat with journalists: "We made up our minds that we will not increase taxes on our people. No new taxes. So, in the past six plus years, no new taxes in our state." Instead of taxing the people, his government chose to expand the productive economy. He brought more people into the tax net by creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

2.  Rejection of Presumptive Tax Bill: When the Oyo State House of Assembly passed the Presumptive Tax Bill that would have taxed barbers, bricklayers, photographers, mechanics and small shop owners, Governor Makinde declined to sign it. His reason was clear: "Anything that puts money in the pockets of the people is what I am interested in. At this time, I'm not interested in any policy that will empty their pockets. I'll continue to fight poverty, not the poor."

3.  Suspension of Revenue Collection on Farm Produce: In February 2024, at the Fasola Agribusiness Hub meeting with stakeholders, Governor Makinde declared far-reaching measures to address rising food cost. He suspended revenue collection on all farm produce marketed within Oyo State for six months with immediate effect, subsidised tractor clearing with N600 million (farmers pay N15,000 instead of N30,000), disbursed N1 billion to smallholder farmers through SAfER, removed civil servant guarantor requirement for ACCOS loans, and provided haulage trucks. He even set up a hotline to report recalcitrant revenue collectors. A government that does this cannot be accused of enabling multiple taxation.

FACT 2: The Illegal Collectors Alli Refers To Are Federal-Aided, Not Oyo State Agents

Senator Alli's ignorance is further exposed by his inability to differentiate between state and federal revenue operations. In essence, the "Federal-aided guys" are the ones he is ignorantly referring to.

The illegal levies on farm produce he complains about along major roads are not from Oyo State Government. The Senator should ask his campaign financiers in the NRS (National Revenue Service / Federal tax reform structures) for receipts of money collected from farmers. Those collection points are federal-aided operations, not state.

If Senator Alli had done basic research, he would have known that Governor Makinde had already suspended state collection on farm produce and is fighting those extortionists on behalf of farmers.

ADVICE: HIRE A RESEARCHER AND FACT-CHECKER

It is embarrassing that an APC gubernatorial candidate who promises to pass a law within 100 days does not know the status of revenue collection in the state he wants to govern, does not know that Governor Makinde has ruled out new taxes for over six years, and does not know who collects what on Oyo roads.

We advise Senator Alli to consider hiring a researcher and fact-checker on his campaign team. This will prevent them from committing further avoidable blunders, thereby shooting themselves in the foot before the 2027 campaign even starts.

Oyo people know who is pro-people. Governor Seyi Makinde will never add to the burden of residents of the state he governs. He expands the economy, not taxes.

.Ogunbowale is Special Assistant (Communication) to the Governor of Oyo State.

OYACA Inaugurates Integrity Ambassadors At OSCHST, To Promote Ethical Values

The Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA) has inaugurated the OYACA Integrity Ambassadors, Eleyele Chapter, at the Oyo State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Eleyele, Ibadan.

The Executive Secretary of OYACA, Dr. Folasade Ajibade performed the inauguration as part of the Agency’s ongoing campaign to extend its anti-corruption enlightenment to tertiary institutions across the state.

In her welcome address, the Deputy Provost of the College, Mrs. Lara Fatunbi, who represented the Provost, Pharm. Yemisi Oyewo welcomed the OYACA delegation to the institution and commended the agency for choosing the college among others for the initiative.

She said the college management was delighted to embrace the Integrity Ambassadors programme, describing it as a timely intervention that would help instil the culture of integrity and accountability in students from the onset.

In her keynote address, Dr. Ajibade said OYACA, which was inaugurated by Governor Seyi Makinde in December 2020 and commenced full operation in April 2021, understands the pivotal role of youths in combating corruption.

She said the Agency deliberately extended its campaigns to tertiary institutions where future leaders are trained, with the aim of catching them young.

“The youths are not just leaders of tomorrow but catalysts of change today. By engaging young people in anti-corruption efforts today, we are investing in a future where integrity and transparency are the norm rather than the exception,” Dr. Ajibade said.

She explained that the OYACA Integrity Ambassadors were established across tertiary institutions in the state to engage young people in anti-corruption programmes and prepare them for a future built on integrity.

Dr. Ajibade charged the newly inaugurated Ambassadors to live a life of integrity with clean academic records, speak integrity by sharing the anti-corruption message among their peers, and report any act of corruption noticed around them to any OYACA branch office in the state.

She defined corruption as the abuse of a position of trust for personal gain, citing examples such as demanding and accepting gratification, sexual gratification, nepotism, appropriation of public funds for personal use, misuse of political power, and improper performance of contracts by contractors engaged by MDAs, Local Governments or government parastatals.

She assured the Ambassadors of OYACA’s continued support with training, materials and mentorship, and urged them to join efforts to make Oyo State a corruption-free society and a reference point for transparency and accountability in Nigeria.

Dr. Ajibade thereafter formally inaugurated the OYACA Integrity Ambassadors, Oyo State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Eleyele Chapter, and congratulated the new Ambassadors.

The event was attended by members of the College Management, Heads of Departments, academic and non-academic staff, students and members of the press.

The event was attended by the College Registrar, Mrs Dupe Ayoola, the Public Relations Officer, Mr Sola Samuel Ojewole, Heads of Departments among other staffers and students of the College.

Also, in attendance were the management staff of OYACA; Director of Finance and account Mr Tajudeen Azeez, Director Administration and Supplies Mr Wasiu Alimi, and the Chief Legal Officer, Mrs Eto-Abasi Olayanju among others.

Oyo Govt Fixes November 11. for 2026 Productivity Merit Day Awards Ceremony

The Oyo State Government has approved Wednesday, November 11, 2026, for the 2026 Productivity Merit Day Awards ceremony, marking the grand finale of activities lined up for the 2026 Public Service Week.

In a statement issued and signed by the Chairman, Publicity and Protocol Committee, Pastor Adeola Oduola, the ceremony will take place at Professor Theophilus Ogunlesi Hall, opposite the main gate of the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan at 9;am prompt.

The Head of Service said all necessary arrangements had been concluded to ensure a successful and hitch-free event, which is expected to attract prominent personalities and stakeholders from within and outside the state.

The Oyo State Head of Service, Dr. Adenike Fasina, mni, said the occasion would be graced by the Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, alongside other top government functionaries and dignitaries.

She described the Productivity Merit Day Awards as an important platform for recognising and celebrating outstanding contributions, dedication, commitment and exceptional service delivery among Civil/Public servants in the state.

Dr. Fasina commended the present administration in the State under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde for providing a level playing field for civil and public servants to demonstrate their God-given talents and contribute meaningfully to the development of the Pacesetter State.

She applauded the governor for creating a conducive working environment that had facilitated the successful organisation of the 2026 Public Service Week activities and the forthcoming Productivity Merit Day Awards ceremony.

The Head of Service noted that the initiative reflected the present administration's commitment to promoting excellence, rewarding hard work and strengthening the efficiency of the state Civil/Public service.

She enjoined civil servants across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to turn out en masse and grace the occasion, describing their attendance as an important demonstration of support for the state's public service development initiatives.

Dr. Fasina congratulated the prospective award recipients, urging them not to rest on their oars but to redouble their efforts, remain committed to excellence and continue contributing their quota towards moving Oyo State forward.

The 2026 Productivity Merit Day Awards ceremony is expected to bring the weeks-long activities of the Public Service Week to a memorable close while celebrating outstanding performance and dedication to public service.

Abiodun Atilola 

Media Officer to the SSG/HOS 

November 6. 2026.

IT COMES WITH THE TIMES'....OYELADE RESPONDS TO RESIGNATIONS IN GSM's ADMINISTRATION

 

The latest resignation of the Hon Commissioner for Budget and Planning Barr Ayobami Ojo in the Governor  Seyi Makinde administration did not come as a surprise. 

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information Prince Dotun oyelade, he said Governor Seyi Makinde unlike many supporters who might be feeling betrayed has a sense of Deja vu

According to the Commissioner for information, never in the annals of this country has a Governor stood his ground, maintains his composure and conviction under simmering and unfettered  intimidation even while his colleagues capitulated against their personal will.

'The clear message that Governor Seyi Makinde is sending to all of us is that  Conscience is an Open wound and only Truth can heal it'

Gov Makinde is reassuring Nigerians, and particularly the citizens of oyo state that cowardice and prevarication is the least virtue we need at a time when victory from Lies, empty promises, cajoling and deceit are just about coming to an end.

Oyo NUJ @ 60: Onigbeti Urges Journalists to Prepare For Future, Uphold Professionalism

The Onigbeti of Igbeti Kingdom, in Olorunsogo Local Government Area of Oyo State, HRM Oba (Engr.) Bashir Olalekan Abioye Siyanbola IV, has urged journalists in Oyo State to embrace digital technology and artificial intelligence while upholding professionalism, ethical standards and the Yoruba Omoluabi values.

The monarch also called on journalists to use their professional skills to promote good governance, national development, patriotism and moral values.

He made the call on Monday, November 2,  during the Diamond Jubilee celebration and 2026 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, held at the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan.

Oba Siyanbola, who served as the Royal Father of the occasion, congratulated the union on attaining 60 years, describing the anniversary as a remarkable milestone in its history of excellence, professionalism and nation-building.

He expressed gratitude to God for the opportunity to witness the historic occasion and commended journalists for their contributions to shaping society and promoting responsible citizenship.

Reflecting on the council’s history, the monarch said the celebration offered an opportunity to honour the founding fathers of journalism in the old Western Region and fearless journalists who challenged colonialism and military rule through their writings.

He noted that Oyo NUJ had produced distinguished editors, broadcasters and columnists who contributed to making Ibadan a major centre of intellectual and journalistic excellence in Nigeria.

According to him, the future of journalism lies in digital technology, artificial intelligence and data-driven reporting, urging the council to invest in training young journalists and equip them with the skills required to remain relevant in the evolving media landscape.

“Train your young ones, embrace technology, but never abandon the Yoruba Omoluabi ethos that made you respected,” he said.

The monarch further encouraged journalists to promote stories of hope, development and grassroots governance, assuring the NUJ of his palace’s continued support.

He specifically invited journalists to Igbeti to report the kingdom’s rich marble resources, tourism potential and peaceful disposition, stressing that journalism should be used as a tool for building Oyo State.

Oba Siyanbola prayed for the continued growth of the union, declaring that its voice would never be silenced and its commitment to professional journalism would remain unwavering.

Earlier, the Guest Lecturer, Chief Dare Babarinsa, formerly of TELL Magazine and Managing Director of Gaskiya Publication, delivered a lecture titled, “Oyo NUJ @ 60: Six Decades of Legacy, Milestones and Lessons for the Future.”

In his remarks, the Chairman of NUJ Oyo State Council, Mr Akeem Abas, described the anniversary as a significant milestone, recalling that the council was the first NUJ state council to be established in Nigeria.

Abas said the celebration provided an opportunity to reflect on the council’s historical contributions and reaffirm its commitment to professionalism, ethical conduct and legal standards in journalism.

He thanked God for His protection over journalists in the state and prayed for continued guidance, wisdom and safety for members.

The event was attended by veteran journalists, state executives, chapel leaders, members of the union and other well-wishers.

CAC DCC SUPERINTENDENT, PASTOR DR. STEPHEN AJAYI, URGES NIGERIANS TO PRAY FOR PEACEFUL 2027 ELECTIONS

The District Coordinating Council (DCC) Superintendent of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Pastor Stephen Oluwatoyin Ajayi PhD, has called on Nigerians, particularly religious organisations, to intensify prayers for the country as preparations gather momentum for the 2027 general elections.

Pastor Ajayi made the call while speaking with journalists in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, expressing concern over the prevailing security challenges confronting the country, particularly the persistent incidents of kidnapping, killings and violent attacks in some parts of Nigeria.

The cleric urged politicians and political parties to conduct their activities within the provisions of the law, emphasising that politics should not be treated as a do-or-die affair but as an opportunity to serve the people and contribute to national development.

He further appealed to churches and mosques to educate their members on the importance of peaceful coexistence, political tolerance and responsible conduct before, during and after the elections, noting that the collective interest of the nation must supersede partisan considerations.

The CAC Senior pastor, also called on political office holders and those in positions of authority to introduce people-oriented policies, programmes and developmental initiatives capable of alleviating the economic hardship and suffering confronting Nigerians.

He advised eligible voters to exercise their democratic rights responsibly by voting according to their conscience, without succumbing to intimidation, coercion or undue influence from politicians and other interest groups.

On the responsibilities of religious leaders, Pastor Ajayi, who is the planter of CAC Victory Centre, Akingbade, along the Old Ife Road, Ibadan, charged ministers of the gospel to remain committed to preaching Christ and advancing the Kingdom of God rather than pursuing personal wealth through ungodly means.

He maintained that salvation is freely given through Jesus Christ and should be freely preached to humanity, stressing that the primary responsibility of ministers is to propagate the gospel and lead people to God.

Meanwhile, the cleric announced the forthcoming 21st anniversary celebration of CAC Victory Centre, scheduled for Sunday, November 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the church auditorium.

He consequently invited members of the public, friends, partners and well-wishers to join the congregation in celebrating God's faithfulness and the church's years of spiritual growth and service.