VIDEO; Oyo CPS on Monday - Makinde is a Servant Leader, says Former CCII President General, Akinwande

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has been described as a servant leader, who is all out to make life more meaningful for the people of Oyo State.

This was the submission of Chief Wole Akinwande, a former President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, in an interview with The People’s Verdict.

He said, “His leadership style is inclusive, transformational and what you can call servant-leadership. He is ready to talk with you any time and if you give any convincing point, he will exercise courage. There was a time they had difficulty getting to Alakia when the airport road was being constructed.

 He went there one day and they suggested to him, ‘Governor, how about making a small road here so that we can pass when coming?’ He said, ‘That should be possible. Let’s look at it.’ Within the next two weeks, the road had been constructed. 

He’s very, very good. There are many examples. He is not autocratic and he is accessible to everybody. If you phone him, he’ll pick it or call you back. He is very, very amiable, his influence is ubiquitous.”

Speaking about the impact of Governor Makinde’s leadership, Chief Akinwande said, “He is an encompassing governor. He has the Midas’ touch; anywhere he touches, he does something amazing there. In education for example, look at what happened - 

Technical University, he made sure he gave it a stronger stand and started a new university at Oyo now and in particular, in LAUTECH (Ladoke Akintola University of Technology) where we had problems, where students always took a long time before graduating because of the tussle between Oyo and Osun states, he resolved it neatly. He resolved it in a way that the university did not have to change its name because it is very vital for LAUTECH to be there because of our Baba Ladoke Akintola. That is in education. 

“In roads, everybody now comes and says, ‘How is Ibadan like this? O ti di London now’, (Ibadan is now like London.) There has been a lot of improvement. 

The major improvement on roads - I never knew it was possible to construct a road from Iseyin to Ogbomoso. Everybody was even skeptical that politicians bi won se ma nse niyen, (Politicians are wont to make unrealistic promises.) But this is a man who walks his talk. Whenever he says he will do something, consider it done.

“Then health, all the staff get paid on time. Personnel get paid on time so they can plan their lives and everybody is happy. So you can see that there is peace in the state.”

Chief Akinwande said it is not only Ibadan people that are proud of Governor Makinde but everyone in the state. 

His words: “Everybody is afraid of somebody coming from a section of the state or the country, because they think all the facilities would be diverted to his place. 

This man has spread all the facilities to the three senatorial districts so nobody can argue that he’s neglecting their area. Therefore, if somebody can be so dispassionate, not ruling out of sentiment but solid principles, building for a future, you should be proud of him. Before he became governor, he was always assisting CCII in things that can bring progress to Ibadan land. Just mention a need; he’ll be there for you. So we’re very proud that he’s there and we pray that he has a successful tenure.”

 The roads stand out for Chief Akinwande among all the projects executed by Governor Makinde.

He said, “The roads stand out significantly because they help people in the chamber. Because of bad roads, our people complain about selling their products, about moving here and there or we have difficulty holding meetings in some sections of the state. But with all these improvements, nobody complains anymore. It has helped the private sector much more than they can think.”

Akinwande, a former President of Ibadan Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, said the state economy has performed well under Governor Makinde. 

His words: “The economy has fared better because there are so many encouragements for the people, business transactions are faster. Secondly, because of regularity of pay here and there, you can get loans from the bank and be sure that you will pay and that helps the economy. In Ibadan Chamber, Oyo Chamber, in the olden days, we always had trade fairs, where people brought their products for sale. Between 2009 and 2022, we couldn’t do it but Governor Makinde made a promise that in his second term, he would ensure that we start again and since then, every year, at least twice now, we have done it. That encourages interaction and economic development. So, we are grateful and we believe it will continue.”

Chief Akinwande said on a scale of 1 to 10, he would score Makinde 10.

He said, “If I had my way, I’d just give him 10, but so that nobody would think we’re saying he’s perfect or he can’t move more, let’s give him 8 out of 10.”

Chief Akinwande’s verdict: “Governor Makinde is an amiable person, humble and he walks his talk; anything he promises, he does it. He is very, very dependable.”

Watch the video.....

Oyo lawmaker, Hon. Akintunde Olajide seeks urgent Rehabilitation of Dilapidated Local Government Secretariat across the State

The Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the State Government to urgently rehabilitate dilapidated local Government Secretariat buildings across the State inorder to enhance productivity and efficiency in the local Government Administration. 

The motion, sponsored by Hon. Akintunde Olajide representing Lagelu , and  co - sponsored by the Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, ( Ibarapa East) The leader of the House, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin, ( Ogbomoso South ) Hon. Olusola Owolabi (  Ibadan North 2) and Hon. Peter Ojedokun Ibarapa Central) highlited the need for proactive measures to prevent occupational hazards and inefficiency caused by the degraded facilities.

Hon. Olajide who is the Chairman of the House Committee on Local Government, Chieftaincy Matter and State Honour noted that many local Government Secretariats in Oyo State are structurally weak ,with infrastructure that is unfit for modern Administrative functions. 

According to him, the  worsening condition of these facilities has continued to undermine the efficiency of Local Government Administration, weaken public confidence in Government institutions, and expose both workers and residents to health and safety risks.

"The state of infrastructure in many Local Government Secretariat across Oyo State is dilapidated, structurally weak, and unfit for modern Administrative functions, thereby undermining effective service delivery and public confidence in Government "

"Staff members working under poor and unsafe conditions are exposed to occupational hazards, while residents seeking Government services are forced to endure discomfort and inefficiency caused by the degraded facilities " 

Hon. Olajide stated  that the rehabilitation of Local Government Secretariats is a crucial step towards ensuring that governance gets closer to the people and meets their needs effectively.

He reiterated further that the  upgrading and rehabilitating the Secretariats will not only restore dignity and functionality to Local Governance,  but will also pave ways for productivity, accountability, and inclusiveness in line with Governor Seyi Makinde's agenda of sustainable development in Oyo State. 

"This initiative has the potential to boost grassroots development, promote economic growth, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents in Oyo State." He added

The motion resolved to urge the Oyo State Government, through the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matter to carry out a comprehensive assessment of all Local Government Secretariat in the State with a view to immediate rehabilitation .

Furthermore,  the motion encourages  Public - Private Partnership (PPP) and Corporate Social Responsibility ( CSR ) contributions from contractors and private sector operators within each locality to support the renovation of Local Government Secretariats.

The House also called on the Executive Arm of Government to prioritise budgetary allocations for the rehabilitation, modernisation, and equipping of local Government Secretariat to meet present - day Administrative standards.

NUJ Information Chapel Kicks Off 2025 Week with Church Thanksgiving

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Information Chapel (NUJIC), Oyo State Ministry of Information, on Sunday, began activities marking its 2025 Press Week with a thanksgiving service held at the New Covenant Church, Akobo, Ibadan.

The thanksgiving service, hosted by the church, brought together members of the chapel, officials of the Ministry of Information, family, and friends, who came together to offer praises to God for His grace and protection.

The celebrants at the thanksgiving were led by the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, alongside the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Rotimi Babalola, both of whom joined members of the union in expressing gratitude to God for a fruitful year.

Delivering the sermon, the presiding pastor, Rev. Samuel Emmanuel, encouraged journalists to put their trust in God and remain steadfast in faith as they carry out their professional duties.

“You must walk by faith. It takes faith to journey through life,” he said. “Our faith must be constantly activated, and prayer should remain at the center of everything we do.”

Rev. Emmanuel emphasized the importance of prayer and integrity in human endeavors, urging journalists to seek divine guidance in their work. He also offered special prayers for the upliftment of the chapel, the ministry, and the Oyo State Government.

Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Health Insurance Agency, Dr. Sola Akande commended journalists for beginning their 2025 Week with a thanksgiving service, describing it as a remarkable act of putting God first.

Dr. Akande  noted that he had  not seen any other professional  body working with the Oyo State Government  across its ministries and departments. Agencies (MDs) are organizing a very befitting programme that will start their week-long celebration with such a spiritually grounded event, calling it a model worth emulating.

He applauded the leadership of the NUJIC for projecting the image of the ministry very well.

Dr. Akande while praying for journalists  quoted a Bible passage from the book Ecclesiastes 12:13–14 (KJV) emphasizing that the fear of God goes beyond religion. 

 He said, “When you live and work with reverence for God, blessings and success will surely follow.”

Also during the service,  the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Rotimi Babalola took the Bible reading from 1 Timothy 6:6–10.

The NUJIC chairman, Comrade Fasasi Ismail,     explained that this year's celebration is unique and will feature various activities, including a novelty match, a free health Programme, donations of gifts to a motherless babies’ home, a lecture, an awards presentation, and a Jumah service.

 He expressed appreciation to the church for hosting the service and thanked the commissioner, the permanent secretary, and all chapel members for their support and participation.

"This year's celebration is unique and features various activities.

"Our Press Week is not only about celebration; it’s also about reflection and thanksgiving,” he said. “We are grateful to God for another opportunity to serve our union and  members”.

Civil Society Groups Warn Senate: Stop Central Gaming Bill, Respect Supreme Court Judgement

 

Civil Society Groups Warn Senate: Stop Central Gaming Bill, Respect Supreme Court Judgement 

A coalition of civil society organizations, legal activists, and concerned citizens has issued a strong-worded call to the National Assembly—particularly the Senate—demanding an immediate halt to what they described as a “voyage of legislative rascality, recklessness, provocation, and lawlessness” over the proposed Central Gaming Bill.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Friday, the coalition condemned the National Assembly's attempt to reintroduce federal legislation on lottery and gaming—a matter already resolved by the Supreme Court. The group accused lawmakers of trampling on the Constitution and disobeying binding judicial authority.

Supreme Court Already Settled the Matter

The controversy stems from the November 22, 2024, ruling of the Supreme Court, which unequivocally declared the National Lottery Act 2005 unconstitutional. In a unanimous verdict, the apex court ruled that the National Assembly lacks the power to legislate on lotteries and gaming activities outside the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as these matters do not fall within the Exclusive or Concurrent Legislative Lists in the Nigerian Constitution.

The court granted multiple orders, including a perpetual injunction restraining federal authorities from implementing or enforcing any aspect of the now-nullified law in states outside Abuja.

"A Direct Assault on the Constitution"

Speaking on behalf of the coalition, a spokesperson stated:

> “This move by the National Assembly, particularly the attempt by the Senate to consider the Central Gaming Bill already passed by the House of Representatives, is an affront to the Constitution, a violation of the Supreme Court judgment, and a threat to national peace and democratic governance.”

The coalition insisted that the Supreme Court's judgment is final and binding under Sections 6(6)(b), 235, and 287 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and therefore cannot be circumvented or invalidated by legislative action.

> “Unless and until the Constitution is amended to include lottery, gaming, or gambling in the Exclusive or Concurrent Lists, the National Assembly cannot legislate on these matters for the states. To attempt otherwise is legislative overreach, and we say: Enough is enough,” the statement added.

Demands to the Senate and House of Representatives

The coalition issued two primary demands:

1. An immediate end to the consideration of the Central Gaming Bill by the Senate.

2. A public apology from the House of Representatives to the Nigerian people for what the coalition described as "an assault on legislative integrity, honour, and national security."

> “The Senate now has a golden opportunity to withdraw from this illegal process. Failure to do so will be seen as complicity in undermining the authority of the judiciary and the sanctity of the Constitution,” the spokesperson warned.

Wider Implications for Federalism and Rule of Law

Legal experts present at the briefing emphasized that the ongoing legislative efforts not only violate constitutional boundaries but also pose a serious risk to the federal structure of Nigeria.

> “This is not just about lottery. This is about setting a dangerous precedent where lawmakers can ignore constitutional limits and override the judiciary. If this is allowed to stand, no state will be safe from federal overreach,” said one constitutional lawyer in attendance.

The press conference concluded with a call on all democratic stakeholders—including the judiciary, state governments, the media, and the Nigerian public—to remain vigilant and resist any attempt to erode constitutional governance and judicial authority in the country.

Senator Yinus Akintunde, Oyo NUJ Chairman, Others Laud Adron Group Chairman, Sir Are Adetola Emmanuelking on Icon of Community Devt Award

 

By Seyifunmi Odunuga 

All roads that led to the Press Centre located at  Iyaganku Quarters, Ibadan, were on Friday jam-packed when the who is who in the society that include heavyweight politicians; business stakeholders; celebrities in the media industry, the creme de la creme in the society and host of others gathered together to celebrate with the members of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Oyo State Council at the grand finale of the annual week long event tagged, "NUJ Press Week 2025.

This year's celebration was to be top notch as the  leader in the real estates business, Adron Homes and Properties supported the men of the pen profession by adding colours to the event with  the Chairman of the Group, Sir Aare Adetola Olaniyi Olaonipekun Emmanuelking, KOF, one of the award recipients.

Presenting the award to Sir Aare Emmanuelking, the Senator representing Oyo Central Senatorial District,  Senator Yunus Akintunde hailed the real estate guru for his restless efforts in developing the various communities not only in the Southwest region but all over the country, charging him to keep on the good work he has started.

On his part, the Chairman, NUJ, Oyo State Council, Comrade Ademola Babalola, lauded Sir Emmanuelking and the management of Adron Group for their support since the Union started the preparations for the Press Week. 

In his response, the Chairman of Adron Group, ably represented by the Managing Director, Nike Ajobo, thanked the Oyo State Council of the NUJ for the award of Icon of Community Development conferred on him in recognition of his patriotic service in the real estate sector, assuring of his commitment not to betray the confidence reposed in him. 

He stated further that the Adron Group under his leadership is ready to be partner in progress with the Oyo NUJ, noting that the award will be the beginning of an enduring relationship between the two bodies.

Oyo State Head of Service Clarifies 2025 Confirmation/Advancement/Promotion Examinations for Public Servants

The Oyo State Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni, has reaffirmed that the proposed 2025 Confirmation, Promotion, and Advancement Examinations for Public Servants in Oyo State are fully in line with the provisions of the Public Service Rules (PSR) 1 of 2013.

In a statement issued in Ibadan, Mrs Oni explained that Chapter 6, Rule 060101 of the PSR clearly provides that all officers joining the service, or transferring from one establishment to another, who are yet to be confirmed, must pass the prescribed examinations outlined in Sections 3 and 4 of the Rules.

The statement further noted that the Ministry of Establishments and Training, in its effort to maintain a uniform Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) aligned with Federal standards, issued Circular No. AD3/2/206/[VOL.II/157] dated 11th May 2021, which guides various cadres across the Civil, Judicial, Legislative, and Local Government Services, as well as Commissions and Boards. The circular reinforces the PSR provisions, mandating that all staff appointed to Junior (GL. 01–06), Sub-Officer (GL. 07–14), and Officer Cadres (GL. 08–17) must pass the prescribed examinations within two years of appointment for confirmation, advancement, or promotion.

The only exemption to this rule, according to Mrs Oni, applies to medical officers appointed directly to Consultant Grade Level 15, who must still observe a two-year probationary period before confirmation. These officers will also undergo an induction course jointly organised by the Office of the Head of Service and the Oyo State Hospital Management Board.

The statement also referenced the Civil Service Commission Circular Ref. No. C.16102/120 dated 13th February 2024, which requires all officers in specialised and professional cadres to register, sit for, and pass the five compulsory papers stipulated in Section 060402 of the Public Service Rules, Vol. 1 (2013) before promotion beyond Grade Level 13, to adequately prepare them for higher managerial responsibilities.

In line with the ongoing review, the number of subjects to be written has been revised to seven papers for officer cadres, five papers for sub-officer cadres, and four papers for junior staff, as contained in earlier circulars issued by the Office of the Head of Service.

Mrs Oni assured public servants and the general public that the examinations are not designed to fail candidates but to enhance professional competence and merit-based progression. She emphasised that the old “fail one paper, fail all” policy has been replaced, allowing officers who fail a paper to resit only the failed subject in subsequent examinations. While the examination is regarded as compulsory, it is only mandatory for those who are prepared to progress in their careers as the examination is a prerequisite to confirmation, advancement and subsequent promotion in the service.

She further clarified that payment for the examinations is not new, as it has been an established practice over the years, assuring officers that the process will be transparent and fair.

It will be recalled that the Ministry of Establishments and Training recently concluded examinations for Clerical Officers at Grade Level 04 and related cadres in continuation of this reform process.

Abiodun Atilola 

Head of Media and Publicity, Office of the Secretary to the State Government / Head of Service. Ibadan.

October 18, 2025

A Voice for Every Girl: Kafilat Ogbara Inspires Kosofe with Compassion, Courage, and Commitment to Gender Equality

The community town hall in Olowora, Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, came alive today with laughter, music, and a radiant sense of purpose as Honourable Kafilat Ogbara, Member, Federal House of Representatives representing Kosofe Federal Constituency and Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, hosted an inspiring event to mark the International Day of the Girl Child 2025.

It was not just another ceremony; it was a celebration of strength, courage, and possibility — a day when the voices of young girls echoed with confidence, their faces lit up by the reassurance that they are seen, valued, and heard.

Honourable Kafilat Ogbara, who has consistently championed the cause of women and children, reaffirmed her commitment to creating a society where every girl has equal access to education, protection, and opportunity. Speaking passionately, she said, “Empowering the girl child is not charity, it is an investment in our shared future. Every girl deserves the chance to dream freely and achieve fearlessly.”

The lawmaker’s words which was delivered by the Senior Legislative Aide Mrs. Dami Busari found resonance in the hearts of the children who, one after another, showered her with prayers and heartfelt appreciation for her constant show of love and her countless interventions that have uplifted women and young girls across Kosofe federal constituency and Nigeria at large. Many described her as a mother figure who not only speaks for them in Abuja but also stands with them at home.

The event, which featured motivational talks, mentorship sessions, and special gifts for the girls, drew the presence of notable leaders, including Honourable Ayo Shobanke, Councillor representing Ward B, Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, who urged the girls to remain focused and believe in their potential. Other community stakeholders also took turns to encourage the young attendees, reinforcing the message that the girl child is an indispensable pillar of nation-building.

The day’s proceedings stood as a beautiful reflection of the gender-inclusive vision championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which continues to promote women in leadership and policy-making. Hon. Ogbara’s initiatives align seamlessly with the President’s agenda — evidence that when given the platform, women not only lead with empathy but also drive measurable change in their communities.

By the time the curtains drew, the smiles on the girls’ faces told the story best: they had not just attended an event — they had encountered inspiration.

For Kosofe, and for every young girl who dreams of a brighter tomorrow, Honourable Kafilat Ogbara remains a shining example of what visionary leadership looks like bold, compassionate, and resolutely committed to the future of the Nigerian girl child.