A group committed to the accountability in Oyo state, Team Oyo has urged the council chairmen in call on Governor ‘Seyi Makinde and members of the  state House of Assembly to emulate the Osun state House of Assembly by amending necessary bills in conformity with the Supreme Court judgement on local government financial autonomy.

While commending lawmakers from the Osun state House of Assembly for embracing the developmental move by the Federal Government by taking a bold step towards the right direction, the group urged the Adebo Ogundoyin-led Assembly to use this opportunity to write their names in books of history by setting the necessary machineries in motion to allow the local government autonomy thrive in Oyo state.

Team Oyo made this known in a statement signed by its chairman, Adekunle Suraj, and made available to newsmen on Tuesday, in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.

The statement reads in part: “We commend the Osun State House of Assembly for taking a bold step towards embracing local government financial autonomy. The Supreme Court judgement on local government financial autonomy is a landmark decision, and we applaud the Osun State House of Assembly for aligning with this progressive move.

“It’s time for the Oyo State House of Assembly to take a cue from their Osun counterparts and amend the necessary bills to ensure local government financial autonomy.”

“Local government financial autonomy is a key factor in grassroots development. We are very sure that the people of Oyo State are waiting for their lawmakers to take action on local government financial autonomy, and we hope they will not be disappointed.”

“Moreover, with the autonomy by the current administration of President Bola Tinubu, council chairmen across the nation, especially those of Oyo State need to use the opportunity to write their names in gold. They shouldn’t allow any interference from the state government,” the story added.

High Chief Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja has been crowned with a ceremonial beaded crown in a heartwarming celebration that brought together the rich cultural heritage of Ibadanland and the aspirations of its people. Many recognized the significance of this occasion, including the President of the Beulah Adeoye Foundation, Amofin Beulah Adeoye, who expressed his admiration and heartfelt congratulations to the newly crowned Oba.

Oba Rashidi Ladoja, known for his outstanding dedication to public service and deep roots in the traditions of Ibadanland, has consistently embodied the values cherished by the people. His journey to this new honour, marked by years of steadfast commitment, reflects the rich experience of leadership and cultural ethics that define the essence of Ibadanland.

In a statement released by his Chief of Staff, Ridwan Fasasi, Amofin Beulah Adeoye reflected on the profound impact of this event, saying, “This celebration is not just for Oba Rashidi Ladoja; it is for all of us. It embodies our shared values of cultural ethics and the traditions of Ibadanland. His leadership and dedication have consistently been a beacon of hope and progress for our people, and this new honour further solidifies his legacy.”

The coronation ceremony, held at the historic Olubadan Palace, was more than a formal acknowledgement of Oba Ladoja’s status; it was a reaffirmation of the deep ties that bind the people of Ibadanland to their leaders. The atmosphere was filled with a sense of unity and pride as dignitaries, traditional rulers, and well-wishers gathered to witness this historic event.

As the echoes of the traditional drums faded into the evening, the people of Ibadanland knew that they were not merely witnessing the crowning of a leader but were also participating in a renewal of their cultural identity. The beaded crown that now rests on Ladoja’s head is more than a symbol of power; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of a leader whose life has been dedicated to the service of his people.

Three-term lawmaker representing AFIJIO/Atiba/Oyo East,/Oyo West federal constituency, Akeem Adeyemi, has assisted thousands of his constituents with cash and farming tools.

At an elaborate event, the second in two weeks, which took place at Oba Adeyemi III Arcade on Tuesday, 1,250 constituents got N50,000 each to support their petty businesses while 1,000 fertilizers were distributed to farmers. They also got 500 sprayers too.

A month ago, at the same venue, the lawmaker assisted 1,500 constituents with the same amount of money, bringing the total to 2,750 beneficiaries.

The youthful parliamentarian said he would apart from doing his legislative business, he would continue to facilitate masses-friendly projects.

At the event, Skimeh as the Oyo Prince is popularly called, revealed that 2,000 poles of streetlights are being installed as well as 20 boreholes.

The All Progressives Congress, APC, chieftain who spoke to the admiration of beneficiaries and party faithful said he won’t stop at anything to put smiles on the faces of his constituents.

“Over the years, you have shown me support and the best way to reward you is to continuously bring smiles to your faces. You know I have facilitated projects that included roads, schools, ICT centres and others. More are still coming.

“Rest assured that I won’t disappoint you. I will always listen to your yearnings and aspirations. Together with others, we will take Oyo federal constituency to enviable heights,” the Oyo Prince added.

Beneficiaries included trader unions, religious bodies, artisan groups and others.

At the event were traditional, political and religious leaders.

The federal government of Nigeria has finally paid the outstanding 45-month minimum wage arrears owed to staff of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet).

Non-payment of the arrears, which date back to 2019, has often pitted NiMet management against staff of the agency and the labour unions. In May of this year, the unions planned to embark on industrial action on Monday, May 20, 2024.

However, following an intervention by the House Committee on Aviation Technology and their Senate counterpart, the unions suspended the strike action after an agreement was reached on Sunday, May 19, 2024, during a special session convened by the House Committee on Aviation Technology led by the Chairman, Rt. Hon. Abiodun Isiaq Akinlade, with NiMet management and representatives of the unions present.

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, Professor Charles Anosike, thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for authorising the payment of the arrears.

“Mr. President has demonstrated once again that he is a worker-friendly president. The issue of the unpaid 45-month wage arrears predates this administration, but still, Mr. President has cleared the outstanding. I wish to thank the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, for the role he played.

“Also the Chairman of the House Committee on Aviation Technology, Rt. Hon. Abiodun Isiaq Akinlade, and members of the Committee for their sacrifices and timely intervention. I wish to also thank the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Aviation, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari, and the members of the Committee.

“I thank all the others who played different roles in the process. Our expectations are that staff and the unions will show Mr. President appreciation by working hard and staying focused to ensure that NiMet continues to achieve its mandate.”.

Staff of NiMet, through the NiMet Unions Joint Action Committee (NJAC), have also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister Festus Keyamo, the House of Representatives and Senate Committees on Aviation, and the DG/CEO of NiMet, Prof. Charles Anosike.

In a release dated August 12, 2024, and signed by Comrade Okechukwu Nwokoro, Secretary, NJAC, and Branch President of SSASCGOC, Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), the unions expressed their profound gratitude for the collective intervention in ensuring the payment of the outstanding minimum wage arrears owed to NiMet staff from 2019 to 2022.

It said that “this significant action has greatly alleviated the financial challenges faced by our workforce and has renewed our hope and commitment to serving the nation with excellence”.

Continuing, the unions thanked Professor. Charles Anosike, the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of NiMet, for his leadership and relentless pursuit of the welfare of NiMet staff.

“Your efforts to advocate on behalf of the employees and ensure that these arrears reflect your deep commitment to the agency and its people. We are fortunate to have a leader who places such high value on the welfare and morale of his team. The resolution of this issue has not only eased the financial burden on NiMet staff, but has also strengthened our resolve to continue delivering high-quality meteorological services to the nation. We are motivated and inspired by your collective efforts and pledge to continue our work with renewed hope, dedication, and enthusiasm”.

“We extend our heartfelt thanks to each of you for your invaluable contributions to this cause. Your actions have made a significant difference in the lives of many, and for that, we are deeply appreciative”, the unions said.

Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has congratulated the Otun-Olubadan of Ibadanland, former Governor Rashidi Ladoja, on his recent elevation as a beaded crown-wearing Oba.

This is contained in a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen on Monday in Ibadan.

Senator Alli expressed profound appreciation to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakunlehin, for his wisdom and leadership in bestowing this honour.

He commended the Olubadan for his continuous efforts to uphold the traditions and values that have long defined Ibadanland.

Senator Alli also extended his heartfelt thanks to all Ibadan indigenes for their unwavering support and collective effort in ensuring that this significant milestone was achieved.

The lawmaker acknowledged the pivotal role played by every individual in preserving the harmony and unity that the city was known for.

He thanked Oba Ladoja, who he described as his father, leader and mentor for yielding to the peaceful sentiments of the Ibadan people.

He praised the former governor’s decision as a demonstration of his deep respect for the will of the people and his commitment to the enduring peace as well as progress of Ibadanland.

Senator Sharafadeen Alli (APC-Oyo South) has felicitated with Nigerian youths on the occasion of the 2024 International Youth Day, urging them to harness the power of digital technology for sustainable development.

This is contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abas, and made available to newsmen on Monday in Ibadan.

The theme of the 2024 celebration is “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development.”

Senator Alli emphasised the critical role of youth in shaping the future of Nigeria, particularly in the digital age and encouraged them to be proactive in using technology to create positive change.

The lawmaker said that the theme reflected the immense potential that digital innovation holds for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

He called on youths to seize the opportunities presented by the digital revolution.

Senator Alli acknowledged the challenges facing Nigerian youths, particularly in the areas of unemployment and access to quality education.

He assured them of his commitment to supporting policies and initiatives that would empower young people and create a conducive environment for them to thrive.

According to him, the future of Nigeria rests on the shoulders of the youth, and their active participation in nation-building is indispensable.”

The lawmaker called on government at all levels, private sector stakeholders as well as civil society organisations to invest more in digital infrastructure and education.

He stressed the importance of equipping young people with the skills as well as knowledge needed to navigate the digital landscape and contribute meaningfully to the country’s development.

Senator Alli congratulated Nigerian youths on their resilience and creativity, urging them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of excellence.

He reiterated his belief in the power of the youth to drive Nigeria towards a brighter and more prosperous future through digital innovation as well as sustainable development.