As part of his efforts in making life more bearable for the people of Osun, most especially, the pensioners, Governor Adeleke has again approved payment of balance of gratuity to those who retired between 2008 and 2011 with immediate effect.

The Permanent Secretary, Local Government Staff Pension Bureau, Mr Ibrahim Akibu made this known in a statement signed by him on Thursday in Osogbo.

He admonished the concern pensioners to come to the Bureau for documentation and confirmation of their names.

Mr Akibu stated that the amount released is two hundred and ten million (N210, 000,000) for the Primary school teachers who retired between 2008 and 2011.

"Mr Governor has graciously approved immediate payment of over two hundred million to primary school teachers who retired under the old pension scheme between 2008 and 2011.

"Those concerned are to our office in Abere for proper documentation and prompt payment of their money without any delay.

It would be recalled that Governor Ademola Adeleke, on July 12th 2024, approved and released a sum of One hundred and three million, three hundred and thirty seven thousand, seven hundred and eighteen naira, thirty four kobo (N103,337,718:34) for the local government retirees (old pension scheme)

The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) on Sunday accused INEC of undue interference and taking sides in the party's internal leadership crisis

The party also advised INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmud Yakubu to look into alleged attendance of it's splinter group convention by the commission's staff, even when they were served with court notice challenging the illegal convention

In a statement signed by the NNPP National Secretary, Comrade Oginni Olaposi Sunday ,
the party insisted that INEC chairman must fish out the colluding staff and ensure he or she is punished.

It noted that INEC must remain neutral in the NNPP internal crisis as required by law.

"Without prejudice to the integrity, honour and leadership of the INEC chairman, we are using this medium to remind him that the successes and otherwise of electoral processes in Nigeria largely depend on the level of quality leadership of the commission under his watch.

"It is trite to note that INEC as a commission has the mandate to regulate and control electoral processes in Nigeria in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Electoral Guidelines.

"This shall be without prejudice to the partial autonomy and independence of political parties to regulate and control themselves in accordance with the party constitution."

The NNPP pointed out that the courts including the Supreme Court of Nigeria had made several pronouncements in relation to the liberty and authority of political parties on matters of self regulation and control of its affairs , administration and management.

"One begins to wonder why INEC as a commission, other than being neutral is found to be the contrary and taking sides over an internal matter of NNPP.

"And for the records, the federal high courts seated at Awka in Anambra state and Abuja have said that the crisis in NNPP should be resolved internally by members.

"We regret to note that Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso Senator and others expelled from our party have been deceiving the general public that the NNPP under the leadership of Major Gilbert Agbo lost in the various cases.

"One begins to wonder how the pronouncements of the courts that NNPP leadership crisis is an internal matter of the party translate to loss?

"The Federal High Court have jurisdiction over the party constitution to give direction. We have approached the Court of Appeal in that regard to demand for a clear statement as to how the internal crisis can be resolved and who does it."

According to it, under the constitution of the NNPP, it is the mandate and responsibility of the Founder and Members of the Board as the conscience of the party, to take responsibility and resolve the internal crisis .

"The court has to say so to add impetus and the force of the law to it to enable resolutions. Regret that Federal High Courts were not able to do so in the various judgments.

"On the part of INEC as a regulator, it shall be an oversight function to deploy alternative dispute resolution especially, when the matter is brought before it formally.

"Other than that, INEC is found attending and observing an illegal convention of the expelled members. INEC again should have the courage to respond to the letter of the Founder and Members of the Board to facilitate and order the board to take responsibility in resolving the internal crisis.

"And for the avoidance doubts, it is on record that Kwankwaso and his splinter group and INEC were duly served with court notices against the illegal convention and yet it held and INEC erroneously attended.

"However, we are meant to understand that most times, the chairman of INEC may be shielded from facts of issues and sectional heads tend to do things on their own without the knowledge of the chairman.

"We shall therefore advise the chairman INEC to step up his supervisory role in the management and administration of the commission's statutory responsibilities and know when to evoke his residual powers to act."

The party, therefore, appealed to Yakubu to attend to the letters written to him by the Board of Trustees of NNPP, requesting that while the cases are ongoing in the courts the life of NNPP should be preserved in the hands of the Board.
ABDULSALAM Abdulrazaq
National PRO
NNPP

To my beloved families, esteemed leaders, cherished friends, and esteemed organizations,

As I mark another year of life's journey, I am filled with profound gratitude and overwhelming joy.

Today, I wish to extend my deepest appreciation to each and every one of you who have touched my life in countless ways, shaping me into the person I am today.

To each and every one of you who took the time to make my day special, I want to express my deepest gratitude. Your kindness and thoughtfulness have touched my heart in ways I cannot fully express.

i. The Opaleye-Falade family of Osogbo
ii. The Late Pa Oyedokun & Mama Omolara Babalola's family of Okebaale, Osogbo Osogbo
iii. The Rt. Revd Dr Iwabiiolorun & Mama Oluyamo
iv. The Rt. Revd Oluwagbenro Fabuluje
v. The Ven Dayo Ojo. Dean, Cathedral Church of All Saints Osogbo
vi. The President and members, Oroki Crystal Club, Osogbo
vii. The President and members, YMCA, Cathedral Church of All Saints, Osogbo.
viii. The Choir members, Cathedral Church of All Saints, Osogbo.
ix. The OSPOLY Millenium Set
x. The '92 Set, Anglican Commercial Grammar School, Osogbo.
xi. St Mary's Alumni Group members.
xii. The Standing Committee and members of Cathedral Church of All Saints, Osogbo
xiii. The President and members of Osogbo Wilmington Sister Cities Partnership
xiv. The CEO, Enjoyment Matured Group
xv. Friends at home and in the Diaspora.

To you all, your love, support, and encouragement have been a constant source of strength and inspiration to me throughout the years. Whether near or far, your friendship has enriched my life in ways I cannot fully express. I am deeply grateful for your presence in my life and for the countless memories we have shared together. May our bond of friendship continue to grow stronger with each passing year.

I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your love, support, and friendship. As I celebrate another year of life's journey, I am reminded of the blessings that surround me and the incredible people who make each day meaningful and joyful. May we continue to journey together in love, unity, and service, enriching each other's lives and making the world a better place for generations to come.

With deepest appreciation and warmest regards,

OPALEYE Ajibola Olatunde

The Arakunrin Foundation has donated a 12.5kg oxygen cylinder to the Offa Metropolitan Club (OMC) Medical Center in Offa on Friday, May 10th, 2024.

The oxygen cylinder was received by the Secretary of the Club, Honourable Seun David Ogunniyi Adato, who doubles as member of the Kwara State House of Assembly representing Ojomu/Balogun Constituency.

The Arakunrin Foundation project lead, Mr. Taofeek Alata emphasized that the foundation donated the oxygen kit to support OMC. He added, "I extend my sincere and heartfelt appreciation to Hon. Adato for graciously attending to our team with warmth and support."

Additionally, the foundation eagerly anticipates further collaboration with the center in the near future.

In response to the devastating Owode Market inferno that occurred on April 2, 2024, the Muhydeen Okunlola Kayode (MOK) Foundation has stepped forward with aid for the affected individuals.

The foundation has generously donated N1.750 million to support 35 victims, providing N50,000 each to assist them in rebuilding their lives.

The heartfelt presentation took place within the premises of the Boluyo Yam Flour & Food Stuff Association of Nigeria, Offa Branch, located inside the market.

Conducting the presentation was the esteemed Chief Imam of Offa, Sheikh Muhyidin Salman Hussein, emphasizing the unity and compassion within the community during times of crisis.

The inferno, which engulfed a section of the bustling market, remains shrouded in mystery regarding its cause. Despite the valiant efforts of both federal and state fire services, the blaze raged for approximately five hours, resulting in the destruction of about 50 shops and significant losses in property, particularly foodstuff, charcoal, and second-hand clothing, valued at millions of Naira.

While the fire wrought havoc upon the livelihoods of many, the resilience and support shown by entities like the MOK Foundation serve as beacons of hope amid adversity, highlighting the strength of community solidarity in times of need.

Renowned businessman and socialite, Emeka Okonkwo, widely known as E-Money, has made a heartfelt pledge to support the children of the late Nollywood actor, Junior Pope.

Tragedy struck when Junior Pope, along with three others, lost their lives in a boat accident on the Anam River in Anambra State while returning from a movie shoot.

Expressing his condolences, E-Money revealed that Junior Pope's final concern was for his three sons' well-being. In an Instagram post, E-Money vowed to fulfill the late actor's wish by taking on the responsibility of caring for his children.

Reflecting on Junior Pope's absence, E-Money shared how deeply missed he is as both a friend and a brother. He emphasized the commitment of his family to uphold the legacy entrusted to them, especially Junior Pope's dedication to his children.

E-Money concluded with a poignant tribute, expressing gratitude for Junior Pope's cherished memory and invoking blessings upon his soul, his family, and all who hold him dear.

Honourable Azeez Oyeyemi Olanrewaju Omoluabi has congratulated Alhaji Tajudeen Owoyemi, the Asiwaju of Offa on celebration of his birthday.

Omoluabi, a prominent businessman and contender for the Offa Local Government Chairmanship under the All Progressives Congress(APC) joins in extending heartfelt felicitations to the revered Asiwaju on this auspicious occasion.

Asiwaju Tajudeen Owoyemi, the Chairman of Avalon Intercontinental Nigeria Limited and owner of esteemed hospitality establishments such as Avalon Hotel in Offa, Radisson Blu in Ikeja, and Park Inn in Victoria Island, Lagos, is hailed as a beacon of community development and a paragon of leadership.

Hon. Azeez Oyeyemi Olanrewaju Omoluabi lauds Asiwaju Owoyemi's unwavering commitment to the progress of Offa, citing his exemplary leadership qualities and visionary investments as catalysts for socio-economic growth in the region.

In a statement released today, Hon. Azeez Oyeyemi Olanrewaju Omoluabi expressed admiration for Asiwaju Owoyemi's outstanding contributions to Offa's development, emphasizing his dedication to uplifting the lives of residents and fostering unity within the community.

"On behalf of myself and my family, I extend warmest birthday wishes to our esteemed leader, Asiwaju Tajudeen Owoyemi," stated Hon. Azeez Oyeyemi Olanrewaju Omoluabi. "May this special day be filled with joy, good health, and abundant blessings. We look forward to continued collaboration and partnership in advancing the progress and prosperity of Offa under your visionary leadership."

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, OSBC chapel has rejoiced with the christians on this year's Easter Celebration, which is the foundation of faith for the christian faithful, as its marks the death and resurrection Jesus Christ.

This is contained in a statement by the Secretary of the union, Kamil Raheem, and signed by the Chairman, Comrade Lateef Agboola.

The statement felicitates with the christians members of the union and their families on the celebration; Imploring them to use the occasion to value love and Sacrifice made by Jesus Christ.

The statement also charges the Christians members of the Union to also take the advantage of the season to pray for the progress of the media conglomerate, for it to retain and sustain its position as The Regional Voice of the West.

The NUJ OSBC Chapel therefore wishes all Christians many more years to celebrate on earth in good health and prosperity.

In a gesture of inclusivity and respect for religious diversity, Hon Azeez Oyeyemi Olanrewaju Omoluabi, an aspirant for the Offa Local Government Chairmanship under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has extended heartfelt Easter greetings to the Christian community.

Recognizing the significance of Easter in the Christian faith, Hon Azeez Oyeyemi Olanrewaju Omoluabi conveyed warm wishes for a joyous and blessed Easter celebration.

Speaking on the occasion, Hon Azeez Oyeyemi Olanrewaju Omoluabi emphasized the importance of fostering unity and understanding among people of all faiths. He underscored the values of tolerance, compassion, and mutual respect, which are integral to building a harmonious society.

The gesture reflects Hon Azeez Oyeyemi Olanrewaju Omoluabi's commitment to promoting inclusivity and unity within the community, regardless of religious affiliations. By reaching out to extend Easter greetings, Hon Azeez Oyeyemi Olanrewaju Omoluabi has demonstrated leadership that transcends religious boundaries, fostering a spirit of goodwill and solidarity among all residents.

As Easter celebrations unfold, Hon Azeez Oyeyemi Olanrewaju Omoluabi's message serves as a reminder of the importance of embracing diversity and celebrating shared values. This gesture resonates with residents, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect within the community.

In the spirit of Easter, Hon Azeez Oyeyemi Olanrewaju Omoluabi's message encapsulates the essence of unity, compassion, and understanding, inspiring hope and goodwill among all members of the community.

In a remarkable display of commitment to community development, Alhaji Aliyu Onaolapo Olatinwo family has inaugurated a cutting-edge mosque adorned with contemporary designs and amenities in Offa, Kwara State.

The newly constructed mosque, positioned in front of Olatinwo Estate, stands as a testament to modern architectural brilliance in religious spaces.

Replacing its predecessor, the former mosque has been demolished to make way for this innovative structure, which embodies advancement.

The mosque's architectural marvel extends beyond its aesthetic appeal, boasting modern facilities and amenities to accommodate the evolving needs of worshippers. From spacious prayer halls equipped with advanced sound systems to meticulously crafted minarets gracing the skyline, every aspect of the mosque exemplifies excellence and functionality.

Furthermore, the strategic location of the mosque, adjacent to Olatinwo Estate, ensures accessibility and convenience for worshippers from both within the estate and surrounding neighborhoods. Its prominent placement serves as a symbolic gateway to spiritual enlightenment and community engagement.

Check out the pictures of the mosque...

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/pcUsXjXZYXBvTFg5/?mibextid=oFDknk

.....MOK Always Puts Us in Mind" - People with Disabilities*

.....Rich People Should Have Empathy, Emulate Qs Okunlola - Hon Azeez Omoluabi Declares*

.....Kwara Govt's Empowerment Initiatives Have Zero Impact On People - PDP's Eluku Omo Adugbo*


The Muhydeen Okunlola Kayode (MOK) Foundation distributed food items to more than 5000 residents in Offa and Oyun local government areas of Kwara State at the Foundation House in Offa on Sunday, March 10, 2024.

Alhaji Muhydeen Okunlola Kayode, the founder of MOK Foundation, represented by Mr. Saheed Lawal said the distribution is one of the numerous ways he has been giving back to the society.

Mr. Lawal added that MOK Foundation's tireless efforts in organizing and executing philanthropic endeavours have made a significant impact on thousands of lives.

"His commitment and consistency are inspiring people to reciprocate, thus make a difference in the society. The people are indeed grateful for his vision, passion, and unwavering dedication.

"Yes, MOK orchestrated this successful food distribution. His meticulous planning, coordination, and attention to detail ensured that the process ran smoothly and efficiently. Through his leadership, the Foundation was able to reach over 5000 residents in Offa and Oyun local government areas, providing them with essential food items in this trying time. May Allah azzawajallah continue to bless and be with him."

The Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Offa and Oyun LGs, Mr. Olusegun Folorunso, expressed gratitude to the MOK Foundation for always extending philanthropic efforts toward empowering persons with disabilities (PWDs).

"We thank Alhaji Muhydeen Okunlola Kayode for always giving us special recognition. Even in this distribution, he separately takes care of us. May God never leave him. May God continue to bless and strengthen him beyond measure."

Also speaking, Hon Azeez Oyeyemi Olanrewaju Omoluabi, a prominent aspirant for the Offa Local Government Chairmanship under the All Progressives Congress (APC), said only a few rich people would do like the MOK Foundation.

"Only God-fearing rich people will do as Qs Muhydeen Okunlola Kayode is doing. He has so many philanthropic gestures he's doing underground.

"There may be hardship in the land, but there are some people who are financially buoyant enough to give back. We should encourage those to come out and give back to society."

However, Ambassador Salahudeen A. Lukman, popularly known as Eluku Omo Adugbo, attributed the massive turnout of the beneficiaries to the zero impact of the poverty alleviation programs by the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led federal and state governments.

Eluku, who's the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Candidate for Ojomu Balogun Constituency in the 2023 general election, wrote: "Dear Offa APC members and Governor AA Data Warriors,

"I hope you can see that the poverty and hunger rate is high in our community.

"The average Offa person doesn't like to beg for food; instead, they work hard to earn a decent living. Seeing our people out in such a multitude is only confirmation that the hunger is beyond them, hence the submission to begging instead of resorting to robbery.

"This simply means that the glorified poverty and hunger amelioration programs and policies of Governor AA are having zero impact on our people.

"Please alert the government to do more; our people are truly pushed to the wall.

"Let me thank MOK and others who have been helping our people's situation lately; may you all never know sorrow."

The chairman of Laycon Football Academy, Alhaji Abdulquadri Yusuf Olamilekan, has stated that the academy was founded to scout for talents, develop the youth, and promote the spirit of sportsmanship for the betterment of society.

He made this statement on Monday, March 4, during an interaction with newsmen in Offa, Kwara State.

“Laycon Football Academy was founded many as ‘Mishu Club’ or ‘Mishu FC’; it was changed to Laycon Football Academy in 2021. After the name change, the club was able to expand its reach, becoming registered in local and national competitions.

“We also have affiliations with the Football Association (FA), the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), and other international football associations. All our players are part of the transfer merging system.

“Laycon Football Academy has been participating in various tournaments and scouting programs in different Nigerian states. We have many talents that we have helped secure positions in various state football teams of the federation. We have also been participating in the LLO League since 2022/23, and we performed impressively well. We are currently preparing for another league scheduled for April this year.

“In Offa, we have actively participated. For the record, we won the first edition of the Honourable Cup as Mishu FC. We won it again in 2023 as Laycon Football Academy.

“I can say our mission is not only to score goals but also to develop the youth to realize and achieve their potentials. We also aim to be the bridge between the talents and those seeking them, between the grassroots and the professionals. We want to use football as a means to help the youth in society become productive members.

“With the support of society and professional bodies, Laycon Academy is making progress every day. Alhaji Abdulquadri Olamilekan subsequently urged governments at all levels to do more to develop young talents in sports, especially football, by promoting football academies for young talents to flourish and help produce future giants in the country."

Alhaji Abdulquadri Olamilekan subsequently urged governments all levels to do more to develop young talents in sports, especially football, by promoting football academies for young talents to flourish and help produce future giants in the country.

Former Transition Implementation Chairman (TIC) Chairman of Offa, Kwara State, AbdulAkeem Olatunji, popularly known as LACTO, was lauded today, February 9, 2024 as he marked his birthday.

According to Honourable Azeez Oyeyemi Olanrewaju Omoluabi, a prominent aspirant for the Offa Local Government Chairmanship under the All Progressives Congress (APC), LACTO is an honourable man and illustrious leader.

Honourable Azeez Oyeyemi Olanrewaju Omoluabi also praised LACTO for his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the progress and development of Offa.

Omoluabi conveyed his warm regards and best wishes to LACTO, highlighting the significance of his leadership and dedication to the betterment of Offa.

Though Nigeria was colonized by the British. It gained its independence on October 1st, 1960. This event was a joyful one for all the citizens and the freedom fighters as they all remain hopeful for a better productive and prosperous country of their dreams

Generally speaking, My nation is comprised of three(3) tribes where we have Yoruba(s), Hausa(s), and Igbo(s) who merged as one to fight for Independence. They dreamt of maintaining peace, justice, and fairness. So sad, that the dream prepared by the freedom fighter activist hasn't come to reality yet. What has gone wrong? Nation dreamt of green gold was in vain. How could a nation known as the giant of Africa be a nation of debts?

Eventually, This happens basically among our tribalistic politicians, We have all the tribes in the political sector with different agendas. Some are in power for their self-interest which has caused some of the tribes to fight for their freedom (IPOB). The politicians believe that it is a business for them. Such attitudes have caused a huge problem for Nigeria 🇳🇬 as a whole. Some of the eastern parts region of the country are increasingly agitating for the Biafra Republic in the western region there are serious campaigns for the Oduduwa nation.

All these disagreements between the three (3) for being part of the nation dreamt by the Freedom Activists could be dissolved by taking each other as one, with no tribalistic and no self-interest from the political leaders.

The political leaders should know that voting for them during the election period is not for their self-interest but basically for the interest of the citizens, Reference to October 8, 2020, there was a protest in the nation that caused a loss of souls this protest was basically on police brutality, extra-judicial killings, and kidnapping that have been rampant in the nation.

The citizens believe that those elected are there just for themselves and they couldn't consider the citizens' rights, There have been no salaries for the Government workers, and Graduates from the different prestigious schools were filled with unemployed. This makes some turn against the law getting themselves into cyber crimes, Kidnapping, and even political thugeries.

Nigeria 🇳🇬 is an underdeveloped nation, it has been blessed with many natural resources capable of promoting the nation rather than remaining in debt, the nation can be freed if the politicians are ready to work diligently and avoid being tribalistic, religious sentiments, and other secluded activities.

Conclusively, My dear brothers and sisters, I would want us to be aware that there are a lot of benefits to our unity and that we can enjoy more of the benefits if we remain as one. We should shift our loyalty from our tribes to the country. We should believe that what binds us together is far stronger than what should divide us. We Shouldn't let the suffering and difficulties of those who strengthened with Independence be in vain. Let this nation, Be Mine, Yours and Ours.

God Bless Nigeria 🇳🇬

#Nigeria #oneloveonenation

A workshop on renewable energy solutions was held on Monday, January 22, at Artisan Hall, Offa. The workshop, initiated by Dazmah Consult Ltd in collaboration with HINEN and Citizen Trust Microfinance Bank Limited, aimed to equip Offa artisans with knowledge and skills on using solar panels, portable power stations, and battery packs to generate electricity for their businesses and homes.

Tayim Atam, the sales manager of HINEN Group, expressed her delight in meeting the Offa artisans and sharing her expertise. She emphasized that the solar system would help reduce fuel expenses for both homes and workplaces.

She also mentioned that the solar panel, invented in China, is reliable, providing a two-year guarantee on the products after purchase. Atam highlighted the solar panel's mobility, making it suitable for various occasions, and it comes in various KVA options.

Atam assured the artisans, "I am giving you a two-year guarantee on this solar panel. If anything happens during this period, you can return it for repair. If it's beyond repair, we will provide a replacement."

Regarding payment, Atam explained, "The product's payment will be easy, with 60% due upon purchase and the remaining 40% payable in installments. Payments start after the product is delivered."

Omojasola Olatunji Dauda, the executive director of Dazmah Consult Ltd, highlighted the solar opportunity as significant for Offa artisans in Kwara state. He emphasized the partnership with HINEN Group, praising the payment mode for its comfort.

Alhaji G.A Mustapha, CEO of Citizen Trust Microfinance Bank Limited, stated the aim to equip micro-entrepreneurs and low-income earners with sustainable financial services. He mentioned a partnership with HINEN group and the convenience offered by their mobile application for monitoring finances.

Barber president Mr. Kosamotu Najeemdeen expressed gratitude to HINEN, Dazmah Consult Ltd., and Citizen Trust Microfinance Bank for the opportunities provided. He believes the solar system will enhance business efficiency, reduce fuel costs, and alleviate the stress of waiting for electricity. Najeemdeen praised the reasonable and affordable payment method for those interested in incorporating solar energy into their homes or workplaces.

Activities have been paralysed at the EKITI State University Teaching Hospital, EKSUTH, Ado-Ekiti, as a result of an emergency and indefinite strike declared by labor unions at the hospital following an attack by suspected hoodlums who invaded the medical facility.

Some suspected hoodlums on Monday invaded the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado Ekiti, and attacked some doctors.

It was gathered that the hoodlums destroyed some facilities at the hospital and stole a corpse suspected to be the father of one of the hoodlums.

At the moment, the Association of Resident Doctors, Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti has directed its members to embark on an indefinite strike with immediate effect.

This was contained in a letter addressed to the Chief Medical Director, Professor Kayode Olabanji and signed by the President of the Association, Dr Famous Adeyemi.

“The above-named association writes to notify you of the decision of the emergency congress held today to embark on an indefinite strike with immediate effect.

This follows the actions of hoodlums who stormed the accident and emergency unit of the hospital in the early hours of today and assaulted some members of the association, destroyed several hospital properties and stole a corpse during the attack.

“This attack is happening at a time when our members are showing understanding with the state government on the non-implementation of our demands on improved welfare vis-a-vis being faced with work overload and exhaustion, which is as a result of poor remuneration, pay disparity, and the attending effect of local brain drain.

“We wish to use this opportunity to call on the management of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) and the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, to apprehend the culprits and bring them to justice for their actions.

“We also implore the state government to, as a matter of urgency, attend to our pending demands, which border on improving the welfare of our members.

“We implore the management and the government to provide a lasting solution to these incessant assaults on our members and ensure safety when they are at their duty post.

“We call on the state assembly to enact a law to criminalise assault on health workers in Ekiti State. The strike will not be called off until our demands are met.”

Confirming the development, the spokesperson in charge of the University Teaching Hospital, Rolake Adewumi, said already, four armed additional policemen have been drafted to ensure security at the hospital.

She disclosed further that the state police commissioner has since launched a manhunt on the perpetrators with a vow to ensure that they are arrested and be made to face the wrath of the law.

According to a statement signed by the hospital’s spokesperson, the management of Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado – Ekiti has frowned at the activities of hoodlums who vandalised the Accident and Emergency Complex of the hospital and took away a corpse.

In his reaction to the incident, the Chief Medical Director of the Hospital, Professor Kayode Olabanji, said management will not tolerate any act of violence or mayhem being unleashed on members of staff of the hospital.

According to Him, the management has stationed four armed policemen at the Accident and Emergency as well as two armed policemen at the main gate to strengthen the security of the hospital until further notice.

He pointed out that the Division Police Officer in charge of Oke-Ila Division, SP Sesan Falade, has also assured frequent patrol of the hospital premises.

Also, the EKSUTH boss noted that the management and the DPO had met with the State Chairman of the Road Transport Employer Association of Nigeria, Mr Sunday Adeola and mandated him to produce the ring leader because the management heard that the person involved is a member of the association.

The CMD explained further that the person who was involved in a recent similar occurrence at the Neo Natal ward will face the wrath of the law as the case is already in court and the culprit is being prosecuted.

Prof Olabanji, therefore, appealed to the members of staff to calm down as steps are in the right direction to ensure that such an incident does not occur again, saying the management will not tolerate any act of molestation of its staff while discharging their duties.

Ten Corps Members are billed to travel to the Republic of India on Sunday to participate in a Youth Exchange Programme organized by the Indian National Cadet Corps.

The programmre is held annually in commemoration of the Independence Anniversary of the Republic of India, drawing participants from Europe, Asia, Africa and other continents.

During a pre-departure briefing exercise held at Indian High Commission in Abuja, the NYSC Director General, Brigadier General YD Ahmed, expressed appreciation of the warm reception accorded him, and the invitation extended to the Scheme to participate in the programme.

The Director General noted that the invitation, being the second one, was another opportunity for the Scheme to showcase the potentials of the Nigerian youths while also giving participants the opportunity to understand the socio-economic similarities and differences between the two countries.

Ahmed told his hosts that Nigeria is a country with diverse cultures, adding that NYSC was established to promote National Unity, cohesion and development.

He stated that the Scheme was always open to collaborating with agencies both within and outside the country for the promotion of its noble objectives.

The Director General also said the ideas the Nigerian delegation would gain at the programme, especially from the Indian National Cadet Corps, would be applied to improve the NYSC programmes.

Ahmed congratulated the Corps Members on their nomination for the event, and enjoined them to be of good conduct in line with the Core Values of the Scheme.

Earlier in his remarks, the Indian High Commissioner in Nigeria, Shri G. Balasubramanian, noted that Nigeria and India shared several things in common, especially their huge populations and multi-cultural settings.

He said the exchange programme would enable the delegation to showcase Nigeria's culture at the event, which would be attended by youths from other countries

The Diplomat described the NYSC Scheme as a commendable initiative, which would not only give the participating youths a broader understanding of the country, but also prepare them for leadership responsibilities

He appreciated the contributions of the Scheme to the development of Nigeria, and revealed that its selection for participation at the Youth Exchange Programme along with other countries was informed by its uniqueness as well similarities with the National Cadet Corps of India.

The High Commissioner added that India would be willing to learn from the Scheme's experiences.

He thanked the Director General for his support for the exchange programme and promised the Corps Members that the experiences they would garner during the programme would be memorable and impactful.

Balasubramanian remarked that the Indian Government was pleased with the last set of the Corps members that attended the country's 75th Independent Anniversary and called on the present set to emulate their predecessors, as all expenses for the trip would be catered for by the Indian Government.

He admonished them to use the opportunity of the programme to make friends from across the globe and also explore the country's rich cultural heritage, it's historical sites, other issues of interest including Indian cuisines.

Eddy Megwa fnipr
Director, Press and Public Relations