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BIG STORY

The Untold Story Of Osun’s APC Crisis’ Degeneration

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According to investigations, the crisis engulfing the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state of Osun might not have developed to this point if the current administration in the state had not abandoned fairness, unity, and a common purpose.

Due to the controversies surrounding Governor Oyetola’s emergence and subsequent assumption of office, every attempt was made to bring members of the APC political family in Osun together.

Rather than rebuilding and revitalizing the party for the consolidation of progressive legacies in the state, the Governor and his allies initiated an unprecedented campaign of segregation and exclusivity against members of the party that brought him to power in 2018.

A source who is close to the two camps told journalists that party members who wanted to ensure that the crisis did not degenerate, at its earlier stage, formed The Osun Progressives (TOP), a caucus of the party in a bid to right the wrongs of the factional party chairman, Gboyega Famodun and by extension, the Governor’s camp.

A top party chieftain in the state who prayed not to be named because of the height of the crisis said Governor Oyetola’s strong position not to associate with anyone who believed in his predecessor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola’s administration was the first in the series of strokes he used to further divide the party.

The party leader explained further: “Since the creation of Osun on the 27th of August, 1991, Osun has been democratically governed with Osun West Senatorial District taking the first shot but ruling for just less than 24 months; Osun East Senatorial District ruling for eight years; Osun Central Senatorial District where Governor Oyetola hails from would have ruled for 15 and half years by the end of his tenure. With three Governors: Chief Bisi Akande, four years; Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, seven and half years; and Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola who would have spent four years at the end of his first term by 2022 being from the same Ifelodun/Boripe/Odo-Otin Federal Constituency as Oyinlola.

“In 2018, the agitation for the Osun West Senatorial District to produce the next Governor was fierce and huge. It was so fierce that all party leaders, starting from the elders, Agba Osun caucus of APC, majority of the State Executive Council, and virtually all organs of the party were hell-bent on “WEST LOKAN AGENDA.

“In spite of this clamour, the then Chief of Staff, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, was produced as the APC candidate for the State Gubernatorial Election.

“That decision alone fragmented the party such that a section of the party decamped to the ADP, costing APC at least 49,000 votes in the 2018 election. Eventually, the election was declared Inconclusive and a Rerun was ordered, with Alhaji Oyetola eventually winning with a slim margin.

“Although, many factors were responsible for the declaration of the election being Inconclusive, among which was the decamping of the aggrieved section of APC members to the ADP – costing APC over 49,000 votes, the unpopularity of the APC candidate as well as the general clamour for OSUN WEST DISTRICT to field the next Governor were the driving factors for APC’s unusually slim victory in the 2018 guber elections”.

Speaking further, and digging deeper into the unpopularity of the candidate, the source posited, “If we compare the results of Alhaji Isiaka Gboyega Oyetola in his home local governments and that of his closest rival, the PDP candidate in his home local governments, we will discover the huge difference of 21,525 votes in favour of the PDP candidate. This is significant, considering the fact that, PDP could only lead APC after the first ballot by only 353 votes.

“Instead of considering the above factors as the main factors responsible for the declaration of the election Inconclusive, Governor Oyetola, from the inception of his administration embarked on a campaign of calumny and politics of division within the party. Under the Oyetola administration, whoever is perceived to be associated with or harbour any interest in the legacy of immediate past administration or commitment to his predecessor is alienated from the party and government regardless of their contribution to the success of the party.”

Another albatross, the APC chieftain remarked hanging on the neck of Oyetola and his IleriOluwa camp, was the reversal of the major policies of the Aregbesola administration spitefully. They noted that since the start of his administration, the Governor had publicly shown his disdain for the Minister which Ogbeni was aware of but kept mum in the spirit of party cohesion and political maturity.

“For example, when the Muslim Community in Osun was planning to honour Ogbeni with the title of WAZIRI’L MUMINEEN of the State of Osun, the Governor and his team bluntly showed disdain for the event. Despite the fact that Governor Oyetola was the one that picked the date for the programme, he directed that major functionaries of his government should not attend the programme, while also travelling out of the country himself. The only Local Government Chairman who took an active role in the programme, Hon Akeem Olaoye, then Chairman of Osogbo South LCDA was suspended from office for six months. Till today, the unbridled castigation of APC Party stalwarts by members of Oyetola’s administration is the order the day.”

He said while all these were going on, some concerned members of the party approached the Governor to have a rethink about his actions and inactions against APC stalwarts including the former Governor, but the Governor did not yield.

The APC leader noted, “The issues were brought to the attention of Baba Bisi Akande, the former Governor of Osun, for resolutions, though this effort did not produce a decisive resolution. Thereafter, in December 2020, Asiwaju intervened at a meeting held at the Ila Orangun residence of Baba Bisi Akande, with Baba Akande, Governor Oyetola and Ogbeni in attendance where resolutions were agreed. However, the resolutions taken at that meeting were jettisoned and the leaders have not since then raised a finger.

“When there was no solution in sight, genuine party leaders who love the party and majority of people who suffered before we could restore the progressive party back to power in Osun 12 years ago, came together to form The Osun Progressives (TOP), in order to reorganize the party for future elections.

“Immediately The Osun Progressives (TOP) was formed, the Government started castigating leaders of the group and its members. Though this attack has continued unabated, however on a daily basis, members of TOP have kept increasing.

“Immediately the timetable for Ward Congress was released by the National Secretariat of the APC, the leadership of TOP announced to the whole world that they were ready for the Congress but the Governor’s group said they were not ready for a Congress rather they settled for Consensus. While TOP went for real Congress, the Governor’s group went for a dubious ‘CONSENSUS’.

“The Governor used his position as a member of the Caretaker Extraordinary and Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) of the APC with the support of Senator Iyiola Omisore, to influence the Chairman of the Osun Convention Planning Committee, Hon. Elegbeleye to declare the Governor’s group consensus list as duly elected ward Executives; TOP then petitioned the National Secretariat in the form of an Appeal and eventually the Appeal Committee came, they were equally compromised by the Governor, using his influence as a member of CECPC. But one significant thing about the Appeal was during its sitting, known thugs from the Governor’s group came to disrupt the proceedings.

“However, seven leaders of TOP were arraigned before the Magistrate Court instead of arresting and prosecuting thugs. The case was eventually dismissed.

As the crisis continued, especially in relation to the party Congress, numerous party leaders have intervened without any clear resolution in sight.

“On January 8, 2022, the APC National Reconciliation Committee arrives Osun, met with Governor Oyetola’s APC factions, who urged the National Reconciliation Committee to disregard the petitions forwarded to it by TOP.”

While expressing optimism for an end in sight to the crisis, the party chieftain called for a genuine, equitable and fair reconciliation as the chieftain posited, “if with a united party in 2018, the current Governor barely won the election, how will the party perform with a divided house as we approach the coming Guber election”.

BIG STORY

Ogun State Workers Begin Strike Over N82bn Pension Deductions

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The organised labour groups in Ogun State — including the Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, and Joint Negotiating Council — on Monday instructed all state employees to embark on an indefinite strike.

This move follows the state’s failure to remit N82 billion in contributory pension deductions over a span of 14 years.

This directive was disclosed in a statement signed by leaders of the NLC, TUC, and JNC, and shared with The PUNCH on Monday.

The decision for industrial action was reportedly made during a statewide congress held the same day, where workers voted to indefinitely stop work in protest of the non-functional Ogun State Pension Reform Law 2008 and its 2013 amendment.

The 2013 amendment to the Pension Law established the Contributory Pension Scheme, which mandates that both employers and employees contribute a fixed monthly sum of 7.5 percent of the worker’s basic salary into a fund managed by licensed pension fund administrators.

According to the labour unions, in the 17 years since the law was enacted, there has been a consistent failure to implement it properly, often violating the provisions of the law.

The statement noted that “Accessible records on it established the incontrovertible fact that it has rather been a drain of resources for the workers, and curiously, a wage lowering tactic for successive governments of the state.”

It added that “Only 34 months (that is, three years less than two months) of the expected 204 months (17 years) of the deductions from both sides, i.e. the state/local governments were remitted to the PFAs.”

It also stated, “In the last 14 years, and still counting, monthly deductions only from workers’ salaries have been diligently consistent without remittance to their PFAs.”

“The statue-prescribed investments of the funds, the interests it could have yielded, amongst other associated benefits are all in limbo.”

“It simply translated to the apparent shortchanging of the entirety of active and dedicated workers of the state over the years.”

The unions mentioned the Adekunle Hassan Pension Reform Committee that was formed in 2022, stating that its report and recommendations were never made public.

They noted that no definitive steps had been taken to resolve the situation. Despite sending numerous letters to the authorities, the state government never responded.

Suffice that workers unanimously demanded for outright cancellation of the shortchanging scheme which, according to its amended version, comes into full effect on July 1, 2025.

The statement continued, “In clear terms, the indefinite suspension of services across the state and local governments takes full effect from midnight, Tuesday 15th July 2025.”

Earlier, about two weeks ago, the labour unions urged the state government to either delay the implementation of the CPS, initially scheduled for July 1, or revert to the old pension system.

They pointed out that the pension law, signed by former Governor Gbenga Daniel in 2008, was flawed from inception, as the administration failed to remit 25 months’ worth of deductions before exiting office in May 2011.

They added that Daniel’s successor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, amended the law in 2013 with a plan to fully implement the CPS in July 2025, but only remitted nine months’ deductions throughout his eight-year tenure.

According to the labour leaders, Governor Dapo Abiodun, in his six years in office, has not remitted any contributions from workers into the scheme.

They expressed frustration that despite numerous letters and communications, the government has remained silent on the issue.

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BIG STORY

Soldiers Bar Traditionalists From Awujale’s Muslim Funeral

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Soldiers, on Monday, prevented traditionalists, believed to be members of the Osugbo cult, from participating in the Muslim funeral ceremony of the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona.

The unexpected appearance of the cult members created some tension, prompting nearby individuals to raise their voices at them. Soldiers quickly intervened and escorted the traditionalists away from the monarch’s residence.

The burial of the monarch took place around 6 pm on Monday at his private residence in Ijebu Ode, following Islamic customs.

It should be noted that traditionalists in Ogun State had earlier opposed the Oba and Chiefs Law of 2021, which allows traditional rulers to be buried based on their religious beliefs.

They argued that such a law undermines cultural heritage, insisting that royal fathers should follow traditional burial practices.

The Osugbo group arrived on Monday to attempt taking control of the burial process, particularly since the late monarch was reportedly influential in the passage of the new burial law.

However, the soldiers prevented them from interfering with the funeral.

Oba Adetona, who ruled for 65 years, passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 91.

He was buried beside his father and mother in what seems to be a family mausoleum.

Before the interment, Islamic prayers were offered by Sheikh Muftaudeen Ayanbadejo, the Chief Imam of Ijebuland.

The funeral was attended by dignitaries including former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Ogun House of Assembly Speaker Oluwadaisi Elemide, ex-governors Segun Osoba and Gbenga Daniel, and Senator Adegbenga Kaka.

Other notable figures present included Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, Senator Solomon Adeola of Ogun West, and Senator Salisu Shuaib of Ogun Central, among others.

Speaking at the burial, Governor Abiodun said the reign of Oba Adetona stood out not just for its length, but for his great wisdom, far-reaching influence, generosity, selflessness, progress, and the peace he maintained.

He stated that the late king was not only a symbol of pride to Ijebu land but also a proud Nigerian who spent 65 years of his reign in service to the people.

The governor added that the monarch’s brilliance was evident early in his life, as shown by his appointment as a minister and a member of the Western Region’s executive council.

He said Kabiyesi was a bundle of intellect, principled, forthright, philosophical, a social reformer, a transparent and incorruptible ruler with fair judgement and strong dedication to Nigeria.

Abiodun noted that he would deeply miss the monarch’s guidance and support, especially remembering his loyalty during the challenges leading up to the 2019 elections.

He added that though Oba Adetona had completed a historic reign marked by development in Ijebu and beyond, his example of service and love for the people would inspire generations to come.

Dangote praised the late monarch for his concern for the well-being of all people, regardless of their origin.

He described Oba Adetona as a man of impact and a leader who put the people first, saying his contributions to national development were significant and worthy of imitation.

Sunny Kuku, the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, told journalists that Oba Adetona was a truly outstanding king who brought prestige to traditional leadership.

Kuku, who will serve as regent until a new Awujale is named, said essentially, our Kabiyesi was a man of integrity, a man who spoke his mind, a man who had so much wisdom.

He highlighted the king’s passion for education, saying he used both his resources and position to fight poverty and empower his people.

He also praised the monarch’s role in promoting culture, noting that he transformed Ojude Oba into a global celebration that has boosted Ijebu’s economy. He added that the king stood firmly with the less privileged.

He did not just love the people of Ijebu land, he loved the country and when the nation was in turmoil, he took the right step, he spoke his mind. We are missing him already.

Ladi Adebutu, the PDP’s 2023 governorship candidate in Ogun, praised the monarch’s exceptional leadership defined by love and service to others.

Adebutu encouraged Nigerians to embrace the king’s approach to leadership and commitment to societal and cultural growth that aimed to improve lives.

Gbenga Daniel applauded Oba Adetona’s courageous leadership, calling him a bold monarch who consistently told leaders the truth.

Daniel also suggested that one of the most fitting tributes to the king’s 65-year reign would be the realisation of a new state from the old Ijebu Province, something the monarch long envisioned.

Daniel said I think it is common knowledge that in Kabiyesi Awujale, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, you have a personality who can speak truth to power at any time and who can be described as fearless, abhors people telling lies and straight forward to a fault.

He noted that Kabiyesi was never diplomatic and always spoke frankly, even though this drew critics. In the end, he managed to overcome many of the life’s challenges thrown his way.

He added that since the late monarch strongly supported the creation of a new state from Ijebu Province, it was important for the government to take action and make that vision a reality in his honour.

The entire community is good about the creation of the state. The argument has been that of the 24 provinces created in 1924, only Ijebu Province has not been made a state and on that account alone, everyone believes that this error needs to be corrected.

We know that particularly in a democratic dispensation, it is not that easy to create a state, it involves lots of arguments, lobbying and all that.

But we feel very strongly that once the course is just, I am hoping that sooner or later, especially now that Kabiyesi is no more, the power that be will seize this opportunity to honour and immortalise him with the state creation, he said.

Segun Osoba paid tribute to Oba Adetona’s historic reign, describing him as a wise king who worked hard for the advancement of Ijebu and Nigeria as a whole.

Osoba remarked that the late monarch would be greatly missed for his honest and straightforward leadership.

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BIG STORY

Lagos State Flags Off – NCAOOSCE Advocacy Campaign To Tackle Out-Of-School Children Crisis

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The Lagos State Advocacy Team of the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children’s Education (NCAOOSCE) today officially flagged on its state-wide advocacy campaign aimed at revitalizing efforts to reduce the number of out-of-school children in Nigeria.

The flag-on ceremony, themed “Revitalization of the Out-of-School Children’s Initiative,” was held at the Palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, Kusenla III, the Elegushi of Ikate Kingdom, who served as Royal Host and Special Guest of Honour. In his address, the Chairman of the Lagos State Advocacy Team emphasized that the campaign is not just a government programme, but a national movement to restore dignity, opportunity, and inclusion for every Nigerian child currently excluded from formal education. The Commission commended His Royal Majesty for his continued contributions to education in Lagos State, including scholarship schemes, infrastructure support, menstrual hygiene initiatives, and the establishment of the Centre for Lagos Studies at Lagos State University. The campaign aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and supports the six strategic education priorities of the Federal Ministry of Education under Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON. Lagos is one of eight pioneering states championing this renewed national effort. The Lagos State campaign will cover all 245 wards across the state’s three senatorial districts, engaging traditional leaders, religious institutions, market groups, youth associations, and civil society organizations. A total of 1,225 local volunteers will be selected to champion the Commission’s flagship National Adopt an Out-of-School Child (N-OOSC) program at the grassroots level.

Key focus areas of the advocacy include: Ending street begging and child exploitation; Ensuring child identity through birth registration; Promoting safe, inclusive, and dignified learning spaces; Eradicating abuse disguised as discipline; Empowering communities to own the educational future of their children. “This campaign is not against religion or tradition,” the Advocacy Team reiterated. “It is about integration, dignity, and giving every child a fair chance.” The event concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders—government, traditional institutions, faith leaders, educators, and the public—to unite in ensuring that no child is left behind.

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