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Festus Adedayo, Ajimobi’s sycophant or government’s dissident?
Festus Adedayo, a former journalist and former Special Adviser to the governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi has condemned the education policy of the state government while during his sojourn as Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, he showers accolades on his former boss’ led administration.
In an interview he had with Vanguard newspaper in 2014, Adedayo condemned a stalwart of People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Yekini Adeojo over statement that Gov. Ajimobi would not win second term in office. He maintained that the reason for his disapproved statement was because elders like Adeojo were selfish noting that Adeojo’s statement was borne out of his displeasure over his daughter’s removal from Ajimobi’s cabinet.
Adedayo in the interview with headline, ‘Ajimobi is doing unthinkable in Oyo said: “when this same man (Adeojo) had his daughter in Ajimobi’s cabinet, did he ever say this? Now that the governor said he could no longer continue the burden, he (Adeojo) suddenly resorted to that wonky logic of Ibadan doesn’t serve a governor twice”, Adedayo querried.
But two years after his exit from Ajimobi’s government, Adedayo in a column written in à national newspaper took a swipe against the administration of his former boss, Senator Abiola Ajimobi. He condemned him of not following the educational template of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He added that if the governor can follow the template of the late sage in education, the governor will achieve same feat as Awolowo. But the question is: ‘why the former journalist is now picking holes in the administration of his former boss when Oyo State fared better in education compared to when he was part of the government?’ ‘is it because he’s now in the shoe of Chief Yekini Adeojo?’ ‘or should one say he is selfish and self- centered just as the allegation he levelled against Adeojo and other elders in Ibadan?’
He said in the 2014 interview that many politicians and elites especially in Ibadan don’t have regards or respect for the moral principles that underscores human relationships. He added: As a journalist of many years and political scientist, you will be amazed at the raw data of tranchery and human capacity for mischief that I gather in government on a daily basis”, he said.
Comparing Adedayo’s 2014 interview and his column in 2017 with headline: ‘WAEC result: Of Awo’s mud classrooms and govs’ model greed’, should we call him a sycophant or dissident to Gov. Ajimobi’s government?
•Dare Taiwo writes from Ibadan.
China has announced a sharp increase in tariffs on US imports, raising the rate from 34 percent to 84 percent, in response to new American trade measures that came into effect on Wednesday.
The decision, confirmed by China’s finance ministry, will take effect from 12:01 p.m. on Thursday. It follows the imposition of sweeping new US tariffs under President Donald Trump, including a hefty 104 percent duty on certain Chinese goods.
“The tariff escalation against China by the United States simply piles mistakes on top of mistakes and severely infringes on China’s legitimate rights and interests,” the ministry said in a strongly worded statement, warning of “firm and forceful” countermeasures.
Beijing has long opposed the increasing use of tariffs as a tool in trade disputes, and accused Washington of undermining the multilateral rules-based global trading system.
In a related move, China’s commerce ministry also announced it would blacklist six American artificial intelligence companies, including Shield AI Inc. and Sierra Nevada Corporation. The companies were accused of either supplying arms to Taiwan or collaborating with the island on military technology.
Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Aderemi Oseni has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Oyo State Governor, Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, describing his death as a monumental loss to the people of Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
In a condolence message made available to the press on Sunday, in Ibadan by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, the lawmaker eulogised the late elder statesman as a distinguished scholar, consummate public administrator, and one of Nigeria’s most intellectually gifted leaders whose legacy would continue to inspire generations.
Dr. Olunloyo, who served as governor of Oyo State during the Second Republic, was reported dead at the age of 89. He was widely respected for his brilliance, administrative acumen, and unmatched depth in mathematics and public discourse.
Oseni noted that the late governor’s contributions to the development of Oyo State, particularly in the areas of education, governance, and intellectual engagement, are indelible footprints in the sands of time.
“We have lost a gem. Dr. Olunloyo was not just a leader, he was a father figure and a repository of wisdom. His demise is a personal loss to me and all lovers of progress and excellence in our society,” he stated.
While commiserating with the Olunloyo family, the people of Ibadan, and the entire Oyo State, he prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed soul and urged all to take solace in the rich and impactful life he lived.
Member representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives and Chairman, House Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Aderemi Oseni has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Chief Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole and other members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) executives on their re-election.
Chief Ajewole was returned as the President-General of the apex Ibadan socio-cultural association, alongside other members of the executive council, who were all given the mandate to continue piloting the affairs of the association for another two-year term.
In a congratulatory message issued through his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, Oseni described the re-election of the Ajewole-led team as a reflection of the trust and confidence reposed in their leadership by the Ibadan indigenes at home and in the diaspora.
He commended the CCII leadership for its unwavering commitment to the progress, unity, and cultural advancement of Ibadanland while expressing optimism that the renewed mandate would further propel the association to greater heights.
“The re-election of Chief Ajewole and his team is not only a testament to their sterling performance over the last term but also an affirmation of their capacity to continue serving the interest of Ibadan indigenes. I extend my warmest congratulations and best wishes for a more impactful tenure,” he said.
The lawmaker further assured the CCII of his continued support for any initiative geared towards the development of Ibadanland and the preservation of its rich heritage.
The CCII is renowned for its pivotal role in mobilising Ibadan sons and daughters towards the socio-economic development of the65 ancient city and beyond.
