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COVID-19: Our pupils’ lives matter, Oyo ALGON advises Makinde over reopening schools
Oyo state chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) has advised Governor Seyi Makinde on his government’s plan to reopen schools in the state for resumption of pupils, specifically students in Primary 6, Junior Secondary School Class 3 and Senior Secondary School Class 3.
Oyo ALGON also noted that reopening of schools may be the wish of many parents guardians, teachers and students because of the long time closure and academic time loss due to the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic, adding that
this could have been a reason the governor, was eager to reopen the schools on June 29, 2020 for students to prepare for their examinations.
ALGON further advised Governor Makinde to apply great caution in rushing to reopen the schools following the sudden increase in cases of Covid-19 in Oyo State and many other states coupled with high casualty figures
The association in a statement signed by its Chairman, Prince Ayodeji Abass-Aleshinloye on Sunday in Ibadan and made available to Mega Icon Magazine said, “On the face of it, the Governor’s action looks good and responsive to the people’s wish and anxiety. But we hasten to add that wishes and anxiety need to be measured carefully against coordinated verifiable medical scientific deductions in public health emergency like in the case of Covid-19 pandemic with its uncertainty, and projection at finding a cure for the global disease.
“As the National Centre for Disease Control, NCDC severally declared, the nation is yet to flatten the curve and we are now at the inceasing rate of community transfer of the disease. The sudden increase in cases of Covid-19 in Oyo State and many other states coupled with high casualty figures is a pointer to the validation of NCDC position.
“Hence, the State Government should apply great caution in rushing to reopen the schools.
As it is now, Oyo State Covid-19 random testing capacity is still very low relative to its huge population and the jump in reported cases of Covid-19 creates more anxiety than the eagerness to be back to school.
“ALGON hereby calls for a review of the Governor’s order for the safety and lives of our dear children. Life comes before certificate, only the living graduate. Our Pupils Lives Matter. Taking the risk of school reopening without 100 percent (not less because they are young) medical assurance of protection and safety of lives of our pupils may be counter productive.
“Your Excellency, please tarry a bit. May Oyo State not lose any of our pupils, our future, to covid-19 pandemic and may we not witness another round of upsurge of the disease”, the statement added.
In another development, ALGON described the intention of Governor Makinde to renew the tenure of the Local Government Caretaker Committees he appointed in the state despite a subsisting case he filed at the Appeal Court which ordered for status quo remain, as his continuous affront to rule of law, judicial authority and threat to democratic governance.
According to Aleshinloye, “Executive lawlessness has become literally an epidemic in the pacesetter state and this lawlessness is a daily ritual and acceptable norm of governance now hence the increase in insecurity and violence in the State. Where rule of law is sacrificed and the court is treated with contempt anarchy reigns supreme.
“May the peace and understanding that Oyo State enjoyed in the past not be totally sacrificed because of lawlessness and crude arrogance of the Governor and his desperate cheerleaders”, ALGON boss continued.
Engr Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), has disclosed that the nation’s oil and gas reserves have risen to 37.50 billion barrels as of January 1, 2024.
This marks an increase from the 37.046 billion barrels recorded in May 2022.
Komolafe emphasised the implementation of robust policies aimed at enhancing and optimising oil and gas operations across the country.
Notably, gas reserves stand at 102.59 trillion cubic feet (TCF), with non-associated gas reserves reaching 106.67 TCF, culminating in a total of 209.26 TCF of gas reserves.
Addressing concerns during a press conference held in Abuja on Monday regarding crude supply regulation and enforcement, Komolafe underscored the importance of prioritising feedstock supply to local refineries while addressing grievances from oil producers and the Dangote Refinery within specified timelines.
This announcement follows recent reports of a decline in Nigeria’s crude oil production during February and March 2024.
According to data from the April 2024 Monthly Oil Market Report of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Nigeria’s crude oil production (excluding condensates) experienced its second consecutive monthly decrease, dropping to 1.231 million barrels per day in March from 1.322 million barrels per day in February.
OPEC attributed this decline, amounting to a reduction of 91,000 barrels per day, to factors communicated directly from Nigeria.
The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Aderemi Oseni has commiserated with the senator representing Oyo North Senatorial District, Senator Abdulfatai Buhari over the loss of his mother, Alhaja Buhari.
The matriarch, who passed away on Monday, April 8, has left a void in the family that Oseni described as irreparable.
In a condolence message released on Wednesday by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, in Ibadan, and made available to newsmen, the lawmaker expressed his deep sympathy, praying for Alhaja Buhari to find eternal rest in the arms of God.
Oseni, who also represents Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency, urged Senator Buhari and his family to find solace in the legacy of achievements left behind by their late matriarch.
He emphasised the importance of cherishing the memories of her life and the successes attained by her children.
The statement read, “Distinguished Senator Buhari, I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Mama, Alhaja Buhari. Please accept my heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy during this difficult time.
“Alhaja was a pillar of strength and a source of love and guidance for your family and community. Her legacy of kindness, wisdom, and resilience will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
“May you and your family find comfort and solace in the cherished memories you shared with her, and may the love and support of friends and well-wishers provide you with strength and courage in the days ahead.
“Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you navigate through this time of grief”, Oseni continued.
As Muslims globally observe Eid-el-Fitr, signifying the conclusion of the Ramadan fast, the lawmaker representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency of Oyo State and Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Aderemi Oseni has called upon Nigerians to prioritise nation-building efforts during this festive period.
Oseni, in a statement on Tuesday by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, emphasised the importance of collective action and unity in advancing the nation’s development agenda.
He highlighted the significance of Eid-el-Fitr as a time for reflection, gratitude, and community solidarity.
“As we celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, let us not forget the critical task of nation-building that lies before us. Nigeria’s progress depends on our ability to work together, transcend divisions, and build a cohesive society,” the lawmaker stated.
The APC chieftain urged Nigerians to set aside differences and focus on common goals that promote peace, unity, and socio-economic prosperity.
Emphasising the need for inclusivity, Oseni encouraged citizens to actively participate in initiatives aimed at fostering national cohesion and development.
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