LAGOS-SAGAMU EXPRESSWAY CLOSURE: OGUN CHARGES MOTORISTS ON COMPLIANCE

The Ogun State Government has charged motorists and general public to observe and adhere strictly to the diversion guidelines on Lagos-Sagamu Expressway as specified by the Federal Ministry of Works and Power.

The State Commissioner for Transportation, Engineer Gbenga Dairo gave this charge today while reacting to the announced 72 hours closure and a temporary diversion of traffic on the road from outbound and inward Lagos by the Federal Ministry of Works and Power. 

The closure exercises which is contained in a notification letter signed by the Lagos Federal Controller of Woks, Engineer J.O Popoola and communicated to the Ogun State Commissioner for Transportation, Engineer Gbenga Dairo indicated that the temporary closure is connected to the installation of a flyover cross beam at Mountain Top University, commencing from Monday, 28th December, 2020 to Wednesday, 30th December, 2020 with effect from the hours of 5.00pm and 6.00am daily.

The notice revealed that the traffic management plan indicated that diversion of the carriage way starts from 200metres before CH 16 + 540 and terminates after CH 16 + 540 every day.

Engineer Dairo therefore enjoined motorists and general public to cooperate with construction workers and follow simple traffic rules and regulations, stressing that safety and security services like the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Authority (TRACE), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Nigeria Police would be deployed to ensure compliance and enforcement of traffic guidelines as specified. 

While urging all road users to be careful and observant of the temporary traffic arrangements especially at this yuletide period, Engineer Dairo regrets any  inconvenience that the rescheduled traffic arrangements may cause.

Ogun CSC Conducts Entrance Exam For State Counsels, Others

   No fewer than 200 candidates comprising of applicants seeking employment into the Ogun State Civil Service, have sat for the first phase of the year 2020 public service examination conducted by the Public Service Competitive Entrance Examination Board of the Civil Service Commission.

   Speaking during the exercise, at the Staff Development Center, Abeokuta, the Chairman  of the Commission, Engr. Tokunbo Odebunmi said that the exercise was basically for those seeking employment for the post of State Counsel and regularisation of the employees that came into the Service through  jobs portal, saying the process would be based on merit.

   Odebunmi stated that the Commission is putting necessary measures in place in sustaining the process by establishing an examination body, that would conduct entrance examination in the State. 

   He appreciated Governor Dapo Abiodun for his steadfastness in ensuring that the welfare of the civil servants is well catered for, despite the economic hardship, noting that more graduates would be employed whenever vacancies are available.

Responding on behalf of the applicants, Barr. Tolu Onabolu appreciated the State government for the opportunity given to them, saying that it is a platform for them to practice their profession and deliver whatever assignment given to them. 

Also speaking on behalf of candidates employed through jobs portal, Miss Joy Ogbodo and Olalekan Olayode expressed gratitude for the advantage to serve the State, promising to        contribute their best  for the development of the Service. 

NUJ partners ADRON HOMES, set to deliver Media Estate to Members

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Information Chapel has secured a working synergy with the management of ADRON Homes and Properties to deliver housing units to members of the Union.

The arrangement which was sealed on Wednesday, during a meeting held at the head office of the company in Lagos had in attendance the leadership of the Union and that of the company.

Earlier in his address, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Information Chapel, Comrade Akinwale Olanrewaju said, "Our members are willing and longing to have homes of their own and we know that government cannot do it all alone hence the need to join forces with a company like yours in making the members landlords".

While thanking the homes and property company for buying into the vision, the Chairman assured that the repayment arrangement for the housing units is solid because members' salaries are constant from government adding that other sister Unions and associations have also shown interest to key into the vision.

Responding, the Group Managing Director of ADRON Homes and Properties, who doubles as the Life Patron of the Union, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King said, "any focused and vision driven organization cannot survive, expand and make tremendous progress without the collaboration of journalists".

The GMD who revealed that the importance of media cannot be overemphasized said, "Nigeria Union of Journalists is not new to us, the Union is an household name assuring that the relationship between the duo would be mutual and beneficial".

While regarding the synergy as germane and very important, Aare Emmanuel King added that, "we have been having this discussion in bits before now, but now, we are set to concretize the plan and we would do it".

#EndSARS: I lost my leg to amputation after being shot by Police - Ogun Petitioner

...sold my uncompleted building for hospital bills

A petitioner, Apostle Anthony Olaoluwa Kusimo who appeared before the Ogun Judicial Panel of Investigation set up to receive and investigate complaints of victims on Police Brutality, Human Rights Abuses and Extra Judicial Killings by security operatives within the State has narrated how he lost his right leg to amputation after being shot by Police Officer identified as officer Moshood.

Apostle Kusimo, a 62 year old man while narrating his ordeal to the Panel at Magistrate Court 1, Isabo, Abeokuta said, "on the 9th of February, 2012, two police officers accosted me around Iporo Ake area of Abeokuta in the afternoon and one of them shot me and they both ran away". 

According to the petitioner, "I was rushed to the General Hospital, Ijaiye, Abeokuta by neighbors. After I have received some treatment, I was asked to go for X-Ray the second day, to my surprise, I got arrested at the hospital's gate by some officers of the defunct Special Anti Robbery Squad from Magbon, Abeokuta and was put behind counter for 37 days, tortured with hot iron and asked to confess that I was an armed robber which I refused".

Apostle Kusimo revealed that due to neglect and lack of proper care for the leg, it started producing maggots and smelling pus which later degenerated to the level of amputation in April 2012 adding that it was at the stage, when the smell was unbearable again that he was freed to go back to hospital.

"At this point, we had no money again to purchase drugs and pay hospital bills. I had to sell my uncompleted building which was ready for roofing for just N500,000 to take care of the medical bills", Apostle Anthony said requesting for government's support in terms of compensation for the money spent on his treatment and to take care of his family.

Another petition brought before the Panel was that of Mr. Gbenga Kehinde who was arrested on 7th October, 2017 along with his three friends at Emuren, Ijebu Ode and were taking to Magbon in Abeokuta where they were accused of stealing fish worth 63million naira from a farm in Ijebu Ode.

According to the petitioner, he and his friends spent almost three months in police custody with several daily torture from Inspector Adam Abubakar for an offence they did not commit.

The cases had been adjourned to 28th January and 1st February, 2021 respectively for further hearing and to get the accused police officers for their responses.

NUJ Awards: We'll continue to celebrate Excellence - Gov. Abiodun

.... as Osipitan, Odemakin bag Most Outstanding Information Officer's Award

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has assured that his administration would continue to support, appreciate and celebrate hard work, talents and excellence as this would spur, encourage and motivate others and bring about healthy competition.

Governor Abiodun who made this known at the Dinner and Awards night of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Information Chapel said this was to appreciate the officers who have distinguished themselves in their contribution to the Ministry, Government and State at large.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Shuaib Salisu at the Dinner and Awards night held at the O.K Events Centre, Ibara Housing, Abeokuta as part of activities lined up for the 2020 Press Week, Governor Abiodun thumbs up information officers for their role in positively projecting the image of the government charging them not to relent.

At the event, Mr. Femi Osipitan, attached to Ministry of Information & Strategy and Alhaja Waliat Odemakin, the sub-editor, Ogun State Information Service were awarded as Outstanding Information Officers, Male and Female categories respectively for the year 2020.

 

Presenting the Awards, the Chief of Staff to the Governor personally gave each awardees N50,000 cash backings  charging them not to relent in the discharge of their duties to the State while imploring them to do more by propagating the agenda of Governor Dapo Abiodun which he said is anchored on the five cardinal points code named I.S.E.Y.A.

Speaking on the Award categories and the modalities for picking the most outstanding officers, the Chairman of the Union, Comrade Akinwale Olanrewaju said, "we made available nomination forms for all our members to fill who they believe deserve the awards, and those with the highest votes were compiled, scrutinized and adjured as truly deserving the awards".

In an interview with one of the recipients, Mr. Femi Osipitan, revealed that receiving Awards is a call to more work, promising never to relent in whatever value or virtues that were seen in him that earned him the victory as Outstanding Information Officer of the year while appreciating other information officers for the honour and privilege to be so awarded.

Other award recipients are Mr. Tunde Odunewu (Outstanding Photojournalist), and Mrs. Modupe Salabiu (Most Selfless Officer) while group awards such as Outstanding Unit (Print) and Outstanding Unit (Electronics) goes to Ogun State Information Service (OGIS) and Giant Stride respectively.

The Commissioner for Agriculture, Dr. Adeola Odedina and his counterpart from Ministry of Special Duties, Barr. Femi Ogunbanwo were awarded the Commissioner of the Year and Media Friendly Personality respectively while Chief Oluyinka Kufile, Balogun Abidemi Rufai and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Alhaji Abiodun Awere bagged Media Friendly, Philanthropic and Outstanding Performance Awards respectively.

#EndSARS: LAWYERS REPOSE CONFIDENCE IN OGUN JUDICIAL PANEL OF INVESTIGATION

          A legal practitioner, Barrister Kayode Akinsola, has expressed faith in the integrity of Ogun Judicial Panel of Investigation set up to receive and investigate complaints of victims on police brutality, human rights violations and extra judicial killings.

          Barrister Akinsola who was also the Lead Counsel for the petitioner concerning the gruesome murder of Mr. Abiola Adeyanju said, "I feel very confident about the integrity of the Judicial Panel of Investigation sitting in Ogun State and I believe that by the time their recommendations would be out, it would be something worthwhile".  

          The lawyer who made this known at the Magistrate Court 1, Isabo, Abeokuta, while speaking with newsmen after the Panel's sitting said, "what I have seen today really reposed confidence in me that the Panel would ensure justice".

          Akinsola disclosed that the deceased was shot by a drunk police officer, Sgt. Tunji Ademuyegun at a party in Alagada area of Oba, on the 19th December, 2019 after which he ran away and till today had not been found.

          The petitioners, Messrs. Sadiq Jabar and Ahmed Omokayode who wrote on behalf of the family, called on the panel for justice, demanding prosecution of the officer, pleading for adequate compensation for the family, because the deceased had an aged mother and a five-year-old daughter.

          Other legal practitioners who expressed same reactions include Barrister Akinyemi Adetunji and Barrister Kayode Akinyemi, after appearing for their respective clients at the Panel's sitting.

OGUN LIFTS BAN ON BMT, UNDERSCORES SAFETY AS ITS PARAMOUNT OBJECTIVE

Ogun State Ministry of Transportation has lifted the suspension order placed on commercial Bus Mass Transit shuttling between Abeokuta and Ijebu Ode in the State following the adherence of the operators to the necessary operational prerequisites laid down by government before plying the roads.

The Commissioner for Transportation in the State, Engr. Gbenga Dairo, who made this known while speaking with newsmen at the government's Computerised Vehicles Inspection Centre in Abeokuta, said the operators have complied with the laid down regulations by government following a comprehensive tests conducted on their buses.

Speaking through the Director of Vehicle Inspection Services, Engineer Adewale Ademehin, the Commissioner underscored the State government's stance on safety as its paramount objective, maintaining that such can only be achieved when commercial vehicles are in good condition and operation done with sanity on the road.

He said "the scale of damage and destruction caused by poor condition of vehicles plying the roads is a major concern of this administration and the State Government has immediately empowered the VIS and other sister agencies like Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Authority (TRACE) to ensure strict compliance and enforcement of basic vehicle care, road worthiness and safety actions that would mitigate the safety risks linked to incessant carnage orchestrated by vehicles' poor condition".

Dairo maintained that the safety of citizens of the State is paramount to the present government, assuring that Governor Dapo Abiodun will leave no  stone unturned towards providing adequate safety on and off the road for the people of the State.

The General Manager of Priceberg Limited, operators of the BMT, Mr Adewale Odusanya, commended the State government for taking safety in the transport sector as a major concern, urging government to extend the comprehensive check on vehicles to all private and commercial vehicles in the State.

Ogun Judicial Panel: 40 petitions in, victims recount loses from defunct SARS

 

A petitioner, Mr. Musbau Semiu  Ademola who was stopped by the disbanded Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) operatives on May 13, 2020 while coming from Obasanjo hatchery farm where he went to buy 650 day old chickens and turkeys was delayed for over two hours.

Mr. Ademola made this known during the maiden edition of the sitting of Ogun Judicial Panel of Investigation set up to investigate complaints of victims on police brutality, human rights violations and extra judicial killings by security operatives within the State revealing that the delay led to the death of 335 birds costing N448,500 which has made him to be living from hand to mouth ever since then due to the great loss.

After the respondent, Inspector Fatai Rabiu had given evidence and answered questions from the petitioner and the Panel, the matter was adjourned till 11th November 2020 for further hearing.

Another petitioner, Mr. Tunji Adeoso, from Abeokuta said his brother in-law, Sunday Olorunnisola was arrested and detained by a SARS officer, Corporal Omosolape Ahmed popularly known as Oosa at their Magbon station in Abeokuta and while trying to plead for his release, he got a serious slap from corporal Ahmed who later collected a sum of N150,000 from the family before releasing the detained boy.

The Panel Chairman, Hon. Justice Solomon Olugbemi (rtd) said the petitioner and the respondent would be invited when the panel finishes its investigation and evaluation on the matter.

Addressing journalists after the sitting, Justice Olugbemi who revealed that the Panel had already received 40 petitions called on those who still have theirs not to hesitate to, enjoining petitioners not to be afraid because nobody would harass them.

The Chairman assured that the investigation process cannot dampen the morale of security operatives because it would ensure justice for all adding that the panel sitting days are Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

On his part, the State's Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Gbolahan Adeniran noted that justice is crucial in the fabrics of the society revealing that Governor Dapo Abiodun is interested in the activities of the Panel while assuring that adding that this government would ensure justice for all.

Ogun: Gov. Abiodun pays New Minimum Wage to Workers

Contrary to doubts, insinuations and agitations from different quarters, workers in Ogun State have started rejoicing, upon the alerts of October salary received from their respective banks, with the new minimum wage increase.

It would be recalled that the State Government had an agreement with the leadership of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) to effect the new mimimum wage and this has been fulfilled.

Some workers who spoke with our correspondents, Adebimpe Olaitan and Femi Osipitan expressed their happiness for the payment of the minimum wage, saying this was a welcome development.

Expressing his delight, Commander Oluwafemi Odukalu of the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) said, "to be honest I was expecting something close to that increment but when I saw the actual amount added, I was overwhelmed because i didn't expect that much" thanking the Governor for fulfilling the promise.

On her part, Mrs. Oluwatosin Owotomo of the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology appreciated the Governor for keeping the promise made and for not paying lip service to the welfare of workers.

In an interview with the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Alhaji Abdulwaheed Odusile, he said, "it is a good thing, the Governor has promised the labour that he would pay and this is another promise made and promise kept".

According to the Commissioner, "the Government of Prince Dapo Abiodun will always take the welfare of workers seriously,  just as it is committed to the welfare of all residents and indigenes of the State".

Odusile thereafter enjoined workers to be up and doing and dedicated to their work so that "we can have the Ogun State of our dreams".

Ogun Judicial Panel of Investigation receives 20 petitions in 2 weeks

No fewer than 20 petitions have been received by the Ogun Judicial Panel of Investigation set up to investigate complaints and petitions of victims of police brutality and abuse of human rights by security operatives in Ogun State within two weeks of its inauguration.

The Chairman of the Panel, Hon. Justice Solomon Olugbemi (Rtd) who made this known after a meeting with the Panel members said, "we have received 20 petitions already and sitting starts immediately. The sittings would be transparent and open. Media stations are invited to witness and cover the sittings", 

Justice Olugbemi revealed that the maiden sitting of the Panel would hold on Thursday, 5th November, 2020 adding that the panel sitting days would be Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays starting by 10am at the Magistrate Court 1, Isabo, Abeokuta.

The Chairman called on members of the public who have complaints to send in their petitions to the Secretary of the Panel or send online to endsarsjudicialpanel@ogunstate.gov.ng assuring that justice would be delivered.

#ENDSARS: OGSG ASSURES RESIDENTS OF JUSTICE

Ogun State Government has assured residents of the State that the Judicial Panel of Investigation set up to receive and investigate complaints of victims on police brutality, abuse of human rights and extra judicial killings will ensure that justice is delivered with appropriate compensation where necessary.

Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Alhaji Waheed Odusile who restated this in Abeokuta, said the present administration was already taking steps to curb excesses of security agents.

Odusile noted that "this protest has given us an opportunity as a nation to have a holistic view on how to tackle various challenges and illegal operations of some security operatives in the society’’.

He urged victims of brutality to send their petitions to the panel sitting at the Magistrate Court 1, Isabo, Abeokuta, with evidence for proper investigation, adding that petitions could also be sent online to endsarsjudicialpanel@ogunstate.gov.ng or call 07080601223, 07080601224 or 07080601225 for enquiries.

 Odusile, while pointing out the roles of journalists and information managers, said they were not to pronounce their views and opinions, but to know how to reflect government to the people, as well as get the views of the people back to the government.

"We have a lot of work to do as journalists, especially at this time, to unite the nation with our reports. We are called Nigerian Journalists because the nation Nigeria exist’’, the Commissioner said.

SPEAK UP OGUN RESIDENTS: JUDICIAL PANEL OF INVESTIGATION CALLS FOR COMPLAINTS

The newly inaugurated Judicial Panel of Investigation by the Ogun State Government has called on residents of the State who are victims of police brutality, human rights violations, and extra judicial killings in Ogun State from security agents to channel their complaints to the panel for proper investigation and justice delivery.

The complaints which would take the form of petitions can be submitted directly at the Magistrate Court 1, opposite Customary Court of Appeal, Isabo, Abeokuta not later than the 18th day of November, 2020 between 9am and 3pm on working days or through an online e-mail address, endsarsjudicialpanel@ogunstate.gov.ng which would be opened Twenty-Four (24) hours.

The Chairman, Judicial Panel of Investigation, Hon. Justice Solomon Olugbemi (rtd) who made this call in Abeokuta on Thursday in a Press Release assured that the panel will evaluate evidence presented and circumstantial details towards drawing conclusions as to the validity of the complaints while recommending compensation and other remedies where appropriate.

Justice Olugbemi added that the panel would identify all officers responsible in any way for the abuse of victims and recommend appropriate prosecution assuring that recommendations on how to ensure that security personnel no longer abuse the rights of citizens would also be made available to the State Government. 

Affirming that the State Government under the leadership of Prince Dapo Abiodun has zero tolerance for police brutality, the Chairman assured that government is committed to ensuring that rights of all persons within the State are respected and protected by security agents. 

ODUSILE CALLS FOR INFORMATION STAKEHOLDERS’ SUPPORT

The Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Ogun State, Alhaji Abdulwaheed Odusile has revealed that his job is to professionally handle the information management of government hence the need for all Information Stakeholders in the State to work together as a team.

Odusile who made this known during an inaugural meeting with the management staff of the Ministry said, "if we all see ourselves as a chain that must not be broken, then we would succeed easily together and we would all share the glory" while calling for the support of all stakeholders in information management.

The Commissioner said, to properly manage information, "you should get to the newsroom first with accurate reports, don't sit on or delay information unnecessarily because mischief makers are willing to hit the press to create wrong impression".

He added that as information managers of government, ‘’we are the mirror that reflect the government to the people and the people to government’’, calling on officers to be very diligent in the discharge of their duties, pledging to do his best on staffers welfare.

In his address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Alhaji Abiodun Awere said there is no doubt, the information agencies of government are in for a better time having Mr. Odusile at the helms of affairs.

Awere added that the wealth of experience of the Commissioner as the immediate past President of the NUJ would speak volume and make information dissemination of government better managed and coordinated having led the Union for years.

"We are structured to disseminate information of government to the general public as well as get feedbacks from the people to government", the Permanent Secretary revealed.

Don't hoard Information from Journalists - Odusile

The Commissioner for Information and Strategy designate in Ogun State, Alhaji Abdulwaheed Odusile has called on Nigerians especially those at the helms of affairs never to hoard information from journalists as this may open up room for rumours and insinuations.

Odusile who made this known in Abeokuta on Monday while fielding questions from the Honourable members of the Ogun State House of Assembly during his screening said, "if you hide information from journalists, he/she will believe there is skeleton in your cupboard and may decide to go to any length to bring out issues".

Alhaji Odusile who was the immediate past President of Nigeria Union of Journalists said, "don't look down on any journalist or underrate any reporter. Give him the right information and he would do his job professionally".

Speaking on his intended efforts to improve the fortunes of the State owned Radio and Television stations, the Commissioner designate assured that he would do all in his capacity to address the constraints and challenges facing the stations while affirming that the management and staffers of the stations are thorough bred professionals who must be hugely supported.

Describing news as a perishable good whose lifespan is just 24 hours, the Commissioner Nominee said, "we must dish out right information at the right time and get to the news room first to avoid rumours that would naturally fill the space".

The journalism guru who emphasized the importance of feedback and constructive criticism said the information gamut of government would strengthen the existing system to ensure that facts and truths are always presented to the Governor.

In his remarks, the Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olakunle Oluomo who appreciated the Governor for putting round peg in the round hole thanked him for revealing the ministries of the nominees ahead for effective questioning and screening.

Oluomo who said, "you have proven that you are really on top of your game", pleaded with him to justify and convince the people of the State for his appointment.

NAWOJ National Conference: Ogun Chapter seeks government's support

The leadership of National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Ogun State Chapter is set to attend the National delegate conference scheduled to hold in Minna, Niger State in the month of November, 2020.

The State Chapter's Chairperson of the Association, Mrs. Dupe Sobukonla made this known on Tuesday in Abeokuta while paying a courtesy call on the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Public Communications, Hon. Remmy Hazzan.

Sobukonla who revealed that fifty women Journalists from the State would be attending the National Conference to elect new National Executives of the Association used the avenue to call on the government for support.

Congratulating the new leadership of Ogun NAWOJ, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Public Communications, Hon. Remmy Hazzan,  said "leadership is a call to service", calling on them to make their member's welfare a priority.

Hazzan who noted that though government may not be able to sponsor the whole delegates assured that the present administration in the State would do the needful while promising his widow's mite.

NUJ, PCRC relationship, effective union for national security - PCRC National Vice Chairman

The National Vice Chairman, Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) South West region, Alhaji Ibraheem Olaniyan has described the relationship between the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and that of the Nigerian Police as one that is capable of engendering national security and be of great benefits for the people and the nation at large.

The PCRC Boss made this known on Friday in Abeokuta while receiving the Executive Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Information Chapel who recently appointed and confirmed him as an Adviser of the Chapel in his office.

According to him, "the role of Journalists in nation building cannot be over emphasized" hence the need for the force to join hands and partner the media towards a peaceful and secured nation.

Alhaji Olaniyan who noted that Police and Press are best of friends that must work together for the protection of citizens revealed that PCRC, South West zone is set to establish a unit of Police Community Relations Committee in the Secretariat of the Chapel to solidify the relationship and partnership between the two body.

Earlier in his speech, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Information Chapel, Comrade 'Wale Olanrewaju who assured the leadership of Police Community Relations Committee of adequate support from the media appreciated the committee for the service it has been rendering to the nation.

The Chairman said the chapel's leadership having monitored closely the impeccable characters and ascertained the personality of Alhaji Olaniyan as a man of proven integrity, have decided to appoint him as an Adviser of the Chapel.

CITIZENS URGED TO RESPECT OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR

          Nigerians have been urged to respect the office of the Governor, as only the helmsman may have access to some vital information that an average person might not be privileged to.

          The Senior Pastor, Victory life Bible Church (VLBC) International, Abeokuta, Apostle Lawrence Achudume stated this while fielding questions from journalists, during a visit by the Ogun State Police Command and Taskforce on Covid-19 safety measures adherence to the church.

          Achudume lauded the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for his leadership style and chosen this time for reopening of worship centres, saying, ‘’government acted based on information available and in the best interest of the people’’.

          While praying that ‘’Covid-19 would soon be a thing of the past in the world’’, he called on everyone "to live in love, do good at all times, be at peace with all men, particularly, at this period, so that the nation would be what God purposed it to be’’, noting that "keeping social distance, wearing of face mask, washing of hands, as many times as possible and adherence to other safety protocols would continue to keep us safe from the virus".

          Leader of the Taskforce, Chief Superintendent of Police, Toyin Afolaogun, said his team had gone round several churches to see their level of compliance, commending the leadership of VLBC on what they met on ground at the premises and for providing necessary materials to ensure safety of members.

                Some worshippers while reacting to the church reopening expressed delight to be back in church, ‘’to pray at the altar after five months of lockdown’’.

              According to Mrs. Oluwakemi Adebisi, ‘’coming to church is giving life to the people, as we can sing and dance in appreciation of God’s faithfulness’’.

             A resident around the church, Elder Olusola Joseph, appreciated Apostle Achudume for providing them with palliatives to ease the lockdown difficulties, saying the church had been providing for their needs and recently donated a transformer to supply electricity to six communities around the church.

Abiodun Media Aide advocates reconciliation amongst Ogun Community Publishers

The Special Adviser to the Ogun Governor on Media and Public Communications, Hon. Remmy Hazzan has called for reconciliation moves among members of the Federated Chapel, Nigeria Union of Journalists in Ogun State.

Hazzan who made the call on Monday while receiving the executive members of the Federated Chapel in his Oke Mosan, Abeokuta office advised the chapel's leadership to go and make peace with other factions in the Chapel for progress.

While charging the executives of the Union to do all in their capacity to bring everybody together, the Special Adviser enjoined them to be magnanimous in victory and extend hands of fellowship to other faction.

"It is in your interest that you settle all grievances, mend fences and all should come together as one indivisible body", the Special Adviser said.

Hon. Hazzan added that Community Newspaper publishers are an integral part of the State Government in the propagation of government's programs and policies assuring of government's support for the Chapel.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of Federated Chapel, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State under the leadership of Mr. Abusatar Hamed Idowu, the publisher of StarTrend Magazine appreciated the media team of the Governor for their support for the Chapel requesting for more recognition of their members in welfare packages.

Wale Olanrewaju emerge Chairman, as NUJ Information Chapel elect new executives

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State, Information Chapel has elected a set of new executives to steer the affairs of the union for the next three years.

The elections which was conducted at the chapel's premises on Wednesday, August 5, 2020 had members come out enmasse to exercise their franchise and vote the candidate of their choice.

Comrade Wale Olanrewaju emerged Chairman unopposed while Comrade Damilola Jacob emerged as the Chapel’s Vice Chairman after defeating Comrade Passover Adeshina by 82 votes to 65.

Comrade Femi Osipitan was elected as the Chapel's Secretary having polled 95 votes against Comrade Ademola Orunbon who polled 56 votes. In the same vein, Comrade Modupe Salabiu defeated Comrade Olayinka Kujore by 98 votes to 51, to become the Treasurer of the Union.

Others who were returned unoppossed as Assistant Secretary, Auditor and Financial Secretary are Comrades Junaid Dolapo, Oyeledun Adeyinka and Ewaade Abiodun

respectively.

In his speech, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Public Communications, Hon. Remmy Hazzan commended the Information Chapel for the maturity displayed especially throughout the electioneering process while lauding the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Abiodun Awere for his fatherly role. 

He assured that the Governor Abiodun led administration would continue to support the Ministry in ensuring that the potentials of Information Officers are optimally harnessed calling on them to continue to support the present administration in achieving its mandate.

On his part, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Abiodun Awere charged the new executives to be magnanimous in victory and immediately close ranks by extending hands of fellowship to those who competed with them calling on the competitors to also offer useful suggestions that would help the Union move forward.

The Chairman, Caretaker Committee of the Ogun State NUJ Council, Comrade Omolola Adeyinka described the election as peaceful, free and fair and appreciated the members for conducting themselves in line with the electoral guidelines. 

She called on the new executives to continue with the various capacity building programs of the past administrations and also enhance the welfare of the members of the Chapel.

In his acceptance speech, Comrade Wale Olanrewaju appreciated the members of the Chapel for their conduct during the election assuring that his administration would do all in its power to place the Chapel in its rightful place among other chapels.

He extended his hand of fellowship to all members of the Chapel calling on them to support his administration to work together as a single and indivisible Chapel.

Detected 104 Covid-19 cases, we're happy we embarked on factory workers testing - Remmy Hazzan

The Ogun State Government has said that its suspicion and decision to go after and test all essential workers of factories and companies who were exempted to work during the lockdown is a good step in the right direction. 

The Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Media and Public Communications, Hon. Remmy Hazzan who made this known while fielding questions from newsmen in Abeokuta said, "if this proactive measures had not been taken, so many would have been infected without knowing which could be dangerous to the State at large". 

Hazzan noted that out of the 108 positive cases that was recorded on Tuesday, 104 were discovered from a single factory with an assurance that, "there is no cause for alarm or panic as the cases are asymptomatic and government is on top of it."

The Special Adviser further disclosed that the medical team of the State government are on contact tracing of the infected persons who are most likely to also be asymptomatic adding that a good number of the workers who tested positive reside in the factory's facility.

According to the Governor's media aide, "we are not loosing the battle with the Covid-19 pandemic. Our decision to go and test the staff of those factories who were exempted to work during the lockdown actually paid off. The State did the right thing by testing the workers of these companies."

Speaking on the State's preparedness in case of any surge, the Special Adviser said, "though we are not praying for a surge in the number of positive cases but if it happens, the State presently has the infrastructural capacity to handle it. It is better to have it ready and not need it than to need it and not have it".

Hazzan added that the State government had distributed a million nose masks to all local government areas of the State, faith-based organizations, student union bodies, market places, as well as workers adding that there is an enforcement task team who have been saddled with the responsibility of enforcing compliance of safety measures.

EXCITEMENT AS 2,750 FIRST TRANCHE STIMULUS RELIEF MATERIALS GET TO YEWA NORTH

          Rural Dwellers in Yewa North Local Government Area were excited as Ogun State Government began the distribution of relief materials across communities in the Council Area, in continuation of its resolve to ensure that the relief materials gets to the targeted members of the public

          The State Commissioner for Housing, Jagunmolu Akande Omoniyi, while flagging off the distribution of relief materials, maintained that the packages were for the aged and the underprivileged, to alleviate the hardship that could be generated by the lockdown order to curtail the spread of coronavirus in the State, imploring the palliative distribution committee not to discriminate during the sharing of the food packages.

          Omoniyi noted that the 2,750 stimulus packages were delivered for the Local Government, as the first tranche, with a view to distribute 250 packages per ward in the area, advising the people to continue to observe all the precautionary measures and directives laid down by the government while praying for the quick eradication of the pandemic.

          In his remark, the Transition Chairman in the Council area, who is also the Chairman Palliative Distribution Committee, Hon. David Bankole, thanked the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for providing the food packages to the people of the State, assuring that that the items would be distributed without preference to anybody.

          Contributing, the Permanent Secretary, ministry of Finance, Mr. Hassan Adekunle, while lauding the gesture to support the less privilege at this period of lockdown, implored the people against passing wrong information as regard the distribution on the social media, saying they should rather, appreciate government’s efforts.

          In his reaction at his palace in Ayetoro, the Alaye of Ayetoro, Oba AbdulAzees Adelakun, commended the efforts of Governor Abiodun at ensuring wellbeing of the people in the State and prayed for his success in office.

          On her part, the Iyaloja of Yewa land, Alhaja Anifat Abass, appreciated Governor Abiodun for the idea of the stimulus package, which she noted would serve as relief to many households.

EXCITEMENT AS 2,750 FIRST TRANCHE STIMULUS RELIEF MATERIALS GET TO YEWA NORTH

          Rural Dwellers in Yewa North Local Government Area were excited as Ogun State Government began the distribution of relief materials across communities in the Council Area, in continuation of its resolve to ensure that the relief materials gets to the targeted members of the public

          The State Commissioner for Housing, Jagunmolu Akande Omoniyi, while flagging off the distribution of relief materials, maintained that the packages were for the aged and the underprivileged, to alleviate the hardship that could be generated by the lockdown order to curtail the spread of coronavirus in the State, imploring the palliative distribution committee not to discriminate during the sharing of the food packages.

          Omoniyi noted that the 2,750 stimulus packages were delivered for the Local Government, as the first tranche, with a view to distribute 250 packages per ward in the area, advising the people to continue to observe all the precautionary measures and directives laid down by the government while praying for the quick eradication of the pandemic.

          In his remark, the Transition Chairman in the Council area, who is also the Chairman Palliative Distribution Committee, Hon. David Bankole, thanked the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, for providing the food packages to the people of the State, assuring that that the items would be distributed without preference to anybody.

          Contributing, the Permanent Secretary, ministry of Finance, Mr. Hassan Adekunle, while lauding the gesture to support the less privilege at this period of lockdown, implored the people against passing wrong information as regard the distribution on the social media, saying they should rather, appreciate government’s efforts.

          In his reaction at his palace in Ayetoro, the Alaye of Ayetoro, Oba AbdulAzees Adelakun, commended the efforts of Governor Abiodun at ensuring wellbeing of the people in the State and prayed for his success in office.

          On her part, the Iyaloja of Yewa land, Alhaja Anifat Abass, appreciated Governor Abiodun for the idea of the stimulus package, which she noted would serve as relief to many households.

Second Case of Covid-19, our proactive measures yielding result - Ogun Govt.

The Ogun State Government has said its proactive measures being put in place to contain and prevent the spread of Covid-19 outbreak popularly known as Coronavirus in the State is yielding positive results.

The Commissioner for Health in Ogun State, Dr. Tomi Coker who made this known while speaking with news men in her Oke-Mosan office in Abeokuta on the second confirmed case of the virus said, "the case was confirmed from one of the 40 people who had contact with the first Italian index and had earlier been quarantined after testing their blood samples".

According to her, "if we had not been proactive to have tracked down those who had had contact with the first Italian index, he would have been spreading it everywhere but for our measures being put in place".

The Health Commissioner noted that even the person identified, up until now has not developed any symptoms disclosing that she is optimistic that the remaining 39 people who have spent 13 days as at Tuesday, out of 14 days meant for the quarantine period would soon be declared free of the virus.

Dr. Coker called on all residents of the State to be calm and not panic assuring that the Ogun State Government is not leaving any stone unturned towards containing the virus.

She used the avenue to enjoin all to continue to maintain simple personal hygiene by engaging in regular hand washing with soap and flowing water as well as maintain proper respiratory hygiene by sneezing or coughing into the elbow or make use of tissue papers which must be properly disposed after use.

The Commissioner added that if any case is suspected, people should endeavor to put a call through to the following emergency numbers, 08188978392 or 08188978393 for immediate response.

JUBILATION AS ABIODUN PAYS 9 MONTH SALARY TO WORKERS EMPLOYED BY AMOSUN

Workers recruited by the immediate past administration in Ogun State through the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) have begun to smile to their respective banks having received a lump sum of nine months salary arrears paid by the Prince Dapo Abiodun led administration.

It would be recalled that at the twilight of the last administration of Senator Ibikunle Amosun, over 1000 workers were employed into the State's Civil Service and ever since then, they have not received any salary as the present government needed to critically look into the process of their employment. 

Governor Abiodun while swearing-in Permanent Secretaries on January 9, 2020 at the Obas complex, Oke Mosan had in his magnanimity declared that his government would absorb the workers irrespective of some irregularities discovered through the Appointment and Employment Review Committee that was set up. 

In an interview with the Press Officer, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Femi Osipitan, some of the beneficiaries who cannot hide their joy, including; Mr. Ifeoluwa Olugbebi of Ogun State Agricultural Development Program (OGADEP), Mr. Femi Odukalu of Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE), and Mrs. Oluwatosin Owotomo of Ministry of Education, Science and Technology thanked the Governor for his magnanimity and love for humanity. 

On their parts, Mr. Ope Oladimeji of Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA), Mrs. Olabisi Adekoya from the office of the Accountant - General and Miss. Taiwo Oduntan of Ministry of Information and Strategy said "we are happy because coming to work for nine months without receiving salary was not easy at all. Indeed he has really won our hearts for doing this", praying that smiles of joy will not depart from the Governor's face. 

The officers who revealed that they have been coming to work with mixed feelings, hoping for the best assured the State government of their full commitment to the "Building Our Future Together" mantra of the Governor Dapo Abiodun led administration. 

Expressing her delight, the State Head of Service, TPL Amope Chokor on behalf of the ASCON employees appreciated the Governor for his kind gesture towards the workers saying this further affirms that worker's welfare is a priority and of utmost importance to the Governor. 

Congratulating the officers, TPL Chokor enjoined them to spend the money judiciously, reciprocate the gesture with hard work, as well as uphold the ethics of the service. 

OGSG pledges support for effective awareness on Family Planning

The Ogun State Government has signified its readiness to create more awareness on the benefits of family planning/childbirth spacing through the media in its effort to reduce maternal mortality rate in the State.  

Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Hon. Remmy Hazzan state  this while receiving a team from Family Health Initiative Ogun (FAHIO),a Non-Governmental advocacy working group at his Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Affirming the importance of family planning, the Special Adviser said effective information dissemination and enlightenment on health matters would promote healthy living and well-being of the people, noting that a well planned family would reflect positively on the economic growth of the nation and the society at large.     

He assured to engage means of communication within his reach to propagate the message of family planning, adding that he would not hesitate to involve crucial offices and agencies of government for the desired results.             

''Kindly count on my office on the dissemination of information of family planning messages through appropriate channel of communication, as I also wish to involve office of the Wife of the  Governor, Commissioner for Health and other relevant ones to achieve desired results'', Hazzan emphasised. 

He called on all stakeholders to join hands with the FAHIO in its advocacy drive to enhance the health system of the State in line with the present administration's mantra of ''Building Our Future Together''.

Hazzan who noted that the    organisation should deployed strategies of reaching more to the grassroots through Community Development Associations (CDAs), opinion and religious leaders, believed that once the leaders buy in, they would in turn pass it to their members.

"To get the real people that need the message the most, you will also need to get to the grassroots through relevant agencies of government such as the Ministry of Community Development and Cooperatives among others", the Special Adviser said.

Hon. Hazzan was of the opinion that the State would work towards achieving zero level on maternal  mortality rate saying, "there is nothing wrong in having something close to zero maternal mortality rate", while advising that people should desist from patronising quack, but always visit public health facilities which have qualified health personnel.

"As a State, before a year in office, our administration would have covered at least 50 percent of health care needs at primary health care centres, with befitting primary health facilities in all our wards and this will greatly enhance efficient health care service delivery as well as preventing deaths of women and children caused as a result of pregnancy related complications", he said.

Earlier, the Chairperson of the Family Health Initiative Ogun, Mrs. Kemi Balogun represented by a member of the organisation, Mr Adesina Adesegun said the target of the advocacy group was to reduce maternal mortality to the lowest rate through the provision of effective family planning services.

Balogun pleaded with government and policy makers to intensify efforts on the promotion and support of family planning programmes for increased contraceptive uptake and access to quality services. 

She stated that engagement of media in informing, educating and enlightening the public through  production, publishing and reportage would widen people's knowledge on issues relating to family planning/childbirth spacing.

OGSG REMAINS COMMITTED TO PROVIDING AFFORDABLE HOUSING

The Ogun State Commissioner for Housing, Jagunmolu Akande Omoniyi has reaffirmed that provision of affordable houses to the citizenry remained a legacy that the present government  desire to bequeath generations.

Jagunmolu dropped this hint while briefing stakeholders on modalities for construction of housing projects in the State at a meeting held at the conference room of the ministry in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

He noted that the mission of the government was to develop massive affordable houses for the citizenry especially civil servants with reasonable payment options that would not affect their take home.

The Commissioner urged the stakeholders to forward their proposals with clearly  stated specifications,  saying this would guide everyone concerned towards  minimizing errors in the building process to achieve better finishing on the structures.

"His Excellency cherished the integrity of his team, so I want to assure you of our consideration, once the standard is set, you must abide by the rules and ensure perfection in the job", he submitted.

Speaking earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Bolaji Orekoya noted that the meeting was to rub mind with identified  registered contractors of the ministry and reel out the modus operandi of the proposed projects.

Responding on behalf of the contractors,  Mrs Olayinka Adetutu pledged their readiness to complement government's effort at providing affordable housing without compromising quality, praying for God's continued guidance on the management of the ministry, Ogun State Government and Nigeria.

Ogun denies Lagos Okada riders ...says 'we only look for genuine investors'

The Ogun State government has said that its doors are not opened to accommodate Okada riders, whose operations were recently restricted by the Lagos State government.

The Chairman Caretaker Committee on Transportation in the State, Barrister Femi Adeniyi, was on Monday wrongly reported in the media to have assured the motorcyclists who have been relocating to the State following the ban placed on them of adequate accommodation.

But, the state government, in a statement issued yesterday by Rt. Hon Remmy Hazzan, the Special Adviser on Public Communications to Governor Dapo Abiodun, said it has been confirmed that Adeniyi was quoted out of context even as he has  not been authorised to speak on the issue on government’s behalf. 

Hazzan noted that Okada operation is fraught with many challenges, including that of security, which is the reason why their operations have either been totally banned or restricted in many parts of the country.

He said that Ogun State does not have the capacity to cope with the menace and security challenges the influx of the Okada operators from Lagos and any other neighbouring state would pose.

He said that deploying motorcycles for commercial operation is not in the schedule of the National Transportation policy, adding that the Ogun State government is already looking into the issue with a view to coming out with a clear policy direction.

The special adviser noted that although, its doors are open, it is only for genuine businessmen and foreign investors to take advantage of the proximity of the Gateway State to the nation's commecial and biggest market.

The statement noted that Governor Dapo Abiodun, since his assumption of office on May 29. 2019, has put in place, measures to create a conducive emvironment for businesses.

"As the state with the largest industrial base, Ogun State will continue to welcome more investors. The present administration, in its determination to further enhance the status of the state as the most industrialised, has put in place policies that would attract more businesses home and abroad.”

"Governor Dapo Abiodun has been meeting with potential investors in the country and even travelled abroad in his efforts to attract more investors into the state."

The statement further stated that the present administration is desirous of providing gainful employment for her teeming citizens, but with emphasis on agriculture.

It appealed to the people to go about their normal businesses as efforts have been made to prevent security breeches in the state.

GOV. ABIODUN SWEARS-IN 18 COMMISSIONERS, 11 SPECIAL ADVISERS

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has 

 sworn-in 18 Commissioners out of the 19 scre ened and confirmed by the Ogun State House of Assembly, as well as 11 Special Advisers out of the 16 appointed into the State's Executive Council, at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.

Prince Abiodun who noted that the appointments came at the right time, as best hands had to be engaged in order to deliver dividends of democracy to the people, charged them to see their positions as a call to service, work harder to justify their selection and contribute their quota to the development of the State,

He prayed that the good Lord would give them strength and wisdom to provide quality leadership to the Ministries and Agencies they have been designated.

The Governor assigned Mr. Afolabi Afuape to the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Tunji Akinosi, Forestry; Dr. Adeola Odedina, Agriculture; Mr. Olaolu Olabimtan, Budget and Planning; Barr. Gbolahan Adeniran, Justice; while Tpl. Tunji Odunlami is to man Urban and Physical Planning; Hon. Abiodun Abudu-Balogun, Environment; Dr. Tomi Coker, Health and Barr. Femi Ogunbanwo as Commissioner for Special Duties.

Others were; Mrs. Kikelomo Longe as Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mr. Dapo Okubadejo, Finance; Mr. Oludotun Taiwo, Rural Development; Mr. Ganiyu Hamzat, Community Development and Cooperatives; Mrs. Funmi Efuwape would oversee Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Mr. Kehinde Oluwadare would be in charge of the Ministry for Youth and Sports; Mr. Jamiu Omoniyi, Housing; Mr. Toyin Taiwo, Culture and Tourism and Mr. Ade Akinsanya as Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure.

The Special Advisers comprised, Hon. Adebiyi Adeleye, Hon. Adijat Oladapo, Mr. Aina Salami, Engr. Babatunde Adeshina, Hon. Babatunde Olaotan, Dr. Joseph Odemuyiwa, Engr. Kunle Otun, Mr. Ola Oresanya, AIG Olushola Subair (Rtd), Mrs. Ronke Soyombo and Hon. Tajudeen Egunjobi.

Speaking on behalf of the Commissioners and Special Advisers, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Afolabi Afuwape, appreciated the Governor for the privilege to serve, assuring the people of their dedication to the State