Fire has gutted some part of Queen Elizabeth Hall, University of Ibadan in the early hours of Thursday.

Oyomind learnt that the fire broke out in one of the buildings on the second floor of the hall.

However, men of the University Fire Service have arrived at the Hall to put out the fire, which led to confusion in the Hall as students and their potters in the hall were running around during the fire incident.

As of the time of sending this report, there has been no official statement from the University management regarding the incident.

I was inspired not simply because of his oratory prowess or intellectual depth. Though, I had met some thoughtful leaders in the past. Still, none has the same infectious aura and contagious charisma as the man about to walk us through the curves and contours of his personal and professional exploits.

Standing strongly in front of young movers and shakers in the state, this legal juggernaut told me and others of his position and perspectives on politics, policy and governance — and the various behind the scene interventions he has made to advance democracy, assist governments to tackle knotty challenges both at the national and sub-national levels. Vast in the history, geography, and peculiarities of our state, this man has an unbridled passion for the growth and development of Oyo State beyond the cities!

Accomplished in all spheres, he was damn inspirational in the real sense of it. Like others, I listened to the story of his life with rapt attention. That moment gave me the rare opportunity to poke into the inner recesses of his mind while picking up clues on the things he kept to himself. In other words, I listened to what he said out loud and what he silently uttered. Particularly, his story reminded us of the timeless fact that success in many instances has nothing to do with background. That if you can dream it, you can achieve it. And here, on that glorious day, we saw a man who rose from a humble beginning to have the world under his feet.

Despite the limited time, Amofin Beulah Adeoye walked us through a side of his life that is not generally in the public eye. He told us about the struggle he faced early on and how he weathered the storm with grace and equanimity. As he walked us through those moments that shaped his choices and decisions, I became enthralled and inspired. Enthralled because I found myself in his story. I saw myself in his words and couldn’t be more lifted in spirit and soul. I found his story relatable and quite believable. Stories, when shared with grace, passion, and love, have a powerful effect on the people. And inspiring leaders have mastered the art of storytelling. On that day, we all attested to the fact that Amofin Beulah Adeoye was an excellent and exceptional storyteller.

In a way, Amofin’s uncanny ability to tell his story had this connecting power with the people in a way that promotes and fosters unity and diversity. When a leader is adept at weaving story into conversation, the chances that they will build an enduring army of loyal supporters is unmistakable. While telling us his story, we discovered that starting humbly isn’t a problem; not being willing and ready to move past that humble beginning is. Amofin Beulah was able to climb the ladder of success because of the three ‘C’s: Character, Competence, and Capacity.

As a student across all levels of education, Amofin was an academic standout. Whether at the International School, Ibadan or the University of Ibadan, the story of his academic excellence illuminates long before and decades after. In the corporate world, notorious for chewing people up while spitting them out with mirthful abandon, Amofin Beulah Adeoye not only excelled but left an indelible imprint that will continue to stand the test of time.

It is easy to look up to the incredibly inspiring story of Amofin Beulah Adeoye. For once, you can relate to his background and consider dreams and aspirations quite possible. He was able to achieve his dream, nothing stops you from achieving yours.

Olajide Hamzat writes about the various prospect and potential of Oyo state while projecting Amofin Beulah Adeoye as a solution provider, problem solver and creative, adaptive and innovative leader and thinker with compassion and empathy.

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has declared that the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Ibrahim Ganduje, might have been a bit distracted when he said that his party would capture Oyo and Osun states.

The governor maintained that the statement, which came on the heels of the Edo and Ondo states governorship elections, was misguided, noting that the people of Osun State, who have been blessed to see the light that Governor Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke represents, would show the APC ‘pepper’ in the next governorship election in the state.

Makinde, who stated this on Wednesday, while commissioning some projects executed by Governor Adeleke, congratulated the people of Osun State on the choice to support Adeleke two years ago, saying the governor had been delivering dividends of democracy to his state.

The governor equally lauded Governor Adeleke for not abandoning projects he inherited from predecessors, noting that the stance to ensure that the people have the value for their money was also a forte of his (Makinde’s) administration in Oyo State over the last five years.

The governor also noted that one of the best ways to tackle the economic challenges facing Nigerians is for administrators to implement policies and projects that will impact their people, noting that the Osun State governor has been doing well in this regard.

Governor Makinde said: “I want to congratulate my brother, the governor of Osun State. This is not about data or using NBS to cover the lies some people tell about their achievements. On our drive from the Government House to this place, I counted new building projects and looked at the number of people that must have been employed. So, this is for real.

“The people know what they are getting and I congratulate the people of Osun State on their choice. I also want to commend Governor Adeleke for delivering dividends of democracy to the people.

“The reward for hard work is more work. So, give him more work to do for another four years.
“I am so happy to be here this afternoon to celebrate the good works going on in Osun State and I want to, on behalf of our people in Osun and Oyo states, congratulate you. We are one, not just in culture, language and tradition, but for my brother and I, we are one in ensuring that when public money has been spent on a project whether by two or three administrations before you, you have to complete it. On this road project, he has done that and value has been extracted for the good people of Osun State.

“This road was started by former Governor Aregbesola but Governor Adeleke completed it. So, I thank you for completing this road project.
“This is cementing your position in leadership. I am glad that Nigeria has become too advanced for mediocres and minds that cannot think one inch deeper. It is such minds that will say ‘I did not start the project and I am not supposed to complete it.’ Some may even say that because they belong to another political party, they won’t complete a project. No, the people must come first. Now, a new set of leaders is coming up.”

Speaking further, Governor Makinde encouraged the Osun State electorate to stand firm behind Governor Adeleke for another term of four years, noting that he and the Osun State governor have proven to be the real progressives in the South-West region with their pro-people policies and programmes.
“Two years ago, the people of Osun State made a political choice by moving from one political party to the PDP. Somebody that I believe got distracted a little bit after the Edo and Ondo elections and said they are coming out for Osun and Oyo states.

“My people, are you not waiting for them? You will show them that we are different and resolute people. We are law-abiding people and our party plays by the rules. But we believe that the secret they have been covering will be revealed to the people.

“I can’t stop thanking Governor Adeleke for breaking out of the mold of the usual politicians and doing something unusual with regards to delivering on the mandate given to him. I can only encourage you and I promise you my support in the battle ahead.

“Surely, this project is a significant road to the economic development of Osun State. Where the road goes, development follows; those of you who have landed property on this axis, don’t sell them yet, because the value would soon skyrocket when all the projects come together. The completion of this project will bring economic benefits to this neighbourhood.

“I asked him the number of kilometres of light-up project he has done and he said 250km. I started with a 20km proof of consent in Oyo State for the first phase. The second phase was 250km and the next phase is about 60km
“So, quite frankly, light has come to Osun State and I want to urge you, the people, not to allow the return of darkness. Stick with Imole, it is working and it will continue to work.
“One of the surest ways of tackling the economic quagmire we are currently experiencing is for some visioners to do their best to implement policies and projects that will impact their people. Of course, we must still fight for the reforms that will lead to true federalism, because federalism as it is being practised in the country now is discouraging.

“Unfortunately, some proponents of true federalism are moving us more into a unitary type of government. But for us, I told my brother that, in this South-West, both of us are the true progressives. So, we will continue to lead the path and provide good leadership for our people.”

Speaking earlier, the Osun State governor appreciated Governor Makinde’s presence, noting that his presence was a manifestation of the strong bond of brotherhood between Oyo and Osun states.
In the entourage of the Oyo State governor were top government functionaries from the state.

One of the founding fathers of the People Democratic Party, Alhaji Chief Yekini Ayoade Adeojo has urged all former and current governors of the party, including leaders, and stakeholders to work together to actualize the party’s mission of recovering and rebuilding Nigeria.

Chief Adeojo made the call on Sunday at his residence in Ibadan, saying the party has all the tendencies to win elections if the leaders and stakeholders work together as a team against the opposition party.

He said the internal crisis of PDP had generated a lot of attention and had denied the party of its deserved victories at the national and some states in the country, saying all concerned individuals need to join hands to enhance the electoral fortunes of the party in the next general election.
Chief Adeojo, who frowned at the indifference of some party national leaders and governors toward the held Ondo state governorship election, said a backup for Oyo state governor Seyi Makinde’s effort before and during the election will have secured the victory for PDP in Ondo state.

Sheathe Your Sword to Win it All for PDP in 2027

1 As a national and regional elder, I am compelled to speak on matters affecting the growth of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Drawing from the wisdom of a Yoruba parable, “Agba ki wa loja, ki ori omotuntun o wo,” which emphasizes the importance of elders speaking out on critical issues.

2 As a former PDP National Leader, Deputy National Chairman, and founding father of the People’s Democracy Party in Oyo State, I am perturbed by the current rift within the party. I implore all current and former governors, leaders, and stakeholders to work together to actualize the party’s mission of recovering and rebuilding Nigeria.

3 The PDP needs to reunite and strategize ahead of the upcoming general elections. I urge all aggrieved governors and leaders to put aside their differences and work towards the party’s objectives. The internal crisis has denied the party deserved victories, and it’s essential that we join hands to enhance our electoral fortunes.

4 I am disappointed by the indifference of some party national leaders and governors towards the Ondo State governorship election. Governor Seyi Makinde’s efforts were notable, but the party’s loss highlights the need for unity and cooperation.

5 The PDP has lost focus, and its leaders, stakeholders, and members have strayed from the party’s founding objectives. To regain our footing, we must strengthen the party, reconcile with aggrieved leaders and members, and welcome back those who have left.

6 Governor Seyi Makinde, Nyesom Wike, and other G-5 governors are not enemies of the PDP. Rather, they represent a faction that seeks rotation and power-sharing. This conflict is not unusual in democracy and can be leveraged to strengthen the party.

7 The PDP needs a reset to reclaim its winning ways. As a party, we have shown that we can bring relief to the suffering Nigerian citizens. Governor Seyi Makinde is committed to repositioning the party, and I urge all PDP leaders to support him in creating a formidable party that can take Nigeria back to growth and prosperity.

8 Let us remember the era of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, when Nigeria experienced political and economic growth under the PDP. As Oyo State residents, we firmly believe that Seyi Makinde is our gift to the nation, and we are confident that he can bring ingenuity and political will to governance. I implore all PDP leaders to support him as we strive to create a better future for Nigeria.

Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has appointed a former Member of the House of Representatives, Hon Moruf Akinwande as his Special Adviser on Fire Service Reforms.
The governor, in an appointment letter released on Monday, also designated Akinwande as the Chairman of the Fire Services Agency of Oyo State.

The appointment is with immediate effect.
Akinwande, who represented Oyo West/Oyo East/Afijio/Atiba Federal Constituency, had a stint as Chairman of the Oyo State Water Corporation between 2022 and 2023.

The President of the Beulah Adeoye Foundation, Amofin Beulah Adeoye, joins the people of Oyo State and beyond in celebrating a distinguished leader, statesman, and mentor, Chief Bayo Lawal, on the occasion of his 70th birthday.

In a heartfelt tribute, Amofin described Chief Bayo Lawal as a “manifestation of God’s blessing to humanity.” His life of service, leadership, and philanthropy continues to impact countless lives across the state. Amofin noted Chief Lawal’s significant contributions to the socio-political development of Oyo State, highlighting his strategic role as Director General for the successful election campaigns of Governor Seyi Makinde in 2019 and 2023.

“Chief Bayo Lawal is not just a political giant but also a father figure whose support, wise counsel, and mentorship have been a beacon of hope and strength for me,” remarked Amofin Beulah Adeoye. “His passion for uplifting the less privileged and his commitment to community development reflects his deep love for humanity. He has always been a source of encouragement, reminding me of the importance of integrity, diligence, and service in leadership.”

Beyond politics, Chief Lawal has been a pillar of support, providing invaluable advice and encouragement. His fatherly role in my journey—both personally and professionally—has left a lasting impression, inspiring me to pursue greater heights in service to the people of the state.

As Chief Bayo Lawal marks this remarkable milestone of 70 years, Amofin Beulah Adeoye, along with the entire Beulah Adeoye Movement, extends prayers for continued good health, divine wisdom, and abundant grace.

“Your life is a testament to the power of vision, humility, and dedication to the common good. May your new age bring even greater blessings, and may you continue to be a shining light and a source of inspiration to all who are privileged to know you.”

Happy 70th Birthday, Chief Bayo Lawal! May your legacy of service and impact continue to grow for many years to come.

The Ibadan Mega Voice (IMV), an association comprising indigenes of Ibadan in the communication field has conferred an Outstanding Personality Of Ibadanland Award on Amofin Beulah Adeoye, the President of the Beulah Adeoye Foundation.

The award which was presented by Ààrẹ Kola Olomide, the President of the association to the representative of Amofin Beulah Adeoye took place at the Bode Amao Hall, Ibadan House, Oke Aremo, Ibadan.

Ààrẹ Kola Olomide further appreciated Amofin Adeoye for his deepest commitment to community services across nooks and crannies of Oyo State with special priority to Ibadan due to its cosmopolitan nature.

While giving an acceptance remarks by his representative, the legal icon reaffirmed his commitment to development of Ibadanland and promised to do more.

Other awardees included; Chief (Barr.) Sulaimon Ajewole, President-General, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Sheikh Hashim Abdul-Wahab Atere, Chairman, Oyo State Pilgrims’ Welfare Board (Muslim Wing), Mogaji Abdul-Sabur Olawore, Hon. Bayo Amusat-Gbenla, Fuji icon Alhaji Taye Adebisi Currency, Mogaji Isiaka Olagunju, OYSIEC Chairman, Eleven Local Government Chairmen, led by ALGON Chairman, Hon. Sikiru Sanda.