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Osun Guber Race: ‘Plus or Minus’ || By Akinyode Ishola

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AFTER the Ekiti State Governorship election which was won by the candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Kayode Fayemi, attention is now on September 22nd Governorship Election in the state of Osun.

Just like the Governor Ayodele Fayose’s tenure in Ekiti will be over in October, Governor Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola will also bow out of office in November this year.

It is certain, except if the unfortunate incident happen, God forbid; Governor Fayose will definitely handover to the Governor Elect, Dr Kayode Fayemi, a replica of 2014 handing over ceremony.

https://iso.keq.mybluehost.me/ekiti-election-why-did-goliath-fall-by-olamiposi-ishola/

The question is, who will succeed ‘Baba Kabiru’, who is the next occupant of Abere government secretariat?

Without iota of doubt, the race is between the ‘Dancing Senator’ of PDP, Chief Ademola Adeleke, who is the younger brother of the first civilian Governor in the state of Osun, Senator Isiaka Adeleke and Gentle Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, the current Chief of Staff to Osun state Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and Political Associate of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

Senator Ademola, who is the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) hails from Ede in Osun West Senatorial District, while Alh Gboyega Oyetola, a native of Iragbiji in Osun Central Senatorial district is the standard bearer of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the September 22nd governorship election in the state.

Also considering the new Abere government secretariat occupant, another factor is the former Deputy Governor in the state under the government of Chief Bisi Akande, Senator Iyiola Omisore who is the controversial governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party, (SDP).

If the leadership tussle in Osun state chapter of the SDP is settled on time and Senator Omisore eventually emerged, then the race is between the trio.

The Strongholds

THE APC Governorship candidate, Alh Gboyega Oyetola is from Osun Central that comprises Osogbo, Ikirun, Ila, Iree, Iragbiji, Orooruwo , Agbaa, Ada, Eripa, Obaagun among others.

Some of these towns, especially Ikirun, Ila, Iree and Osogbo, the state capital are the strongholds of the progressive fold.

Alh Gboyega Oyetola

In Osun West senatorial district, where PDP candidate, Senator Ademola Adeleke was picked, housed town like Ede, Ejigbo, Ife -Odan, Ikire, Iwo, Ode – Omu, Gbongan and some other adjoining towns and villages.

The PDP stronghold remains Ede, Ikire, Apomu,Ife- Odan, Gbongan and Ode- Omu while other towns like Ejigbo and Iwo belongs to the progressive going by the results of the bye – election in the district.

Ademola Adeleke

In Osun East Senatorial District, the home base of Senator Iyiola Omisore, the factional SDP governorship candidate, and the Incumbent governor of the state, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola comprises Ife, Ilesha, Ipetumodu, Ifetedo, Ijebu-Jesa, Iperindo, Esa- Oke, Ife-wara among others.

https://iso.keq.mybluehost.me/ekiti-election-why-did-goliath-fall-by-olamiposi-ishola/

Just like other candidates, Ife and its environ remains the stronghold of SDP while Ilesha, the home town of Governor Aregbesola and some parts of Ijesha land will likely vote for APC.

Other ‘influences’ considered by political analysts include the factor of Money, Power of Incumbency and Electorate who are the main determinant in the September 22nd Governorship election.

Omisore

Even in the 1993 general elections which is the most fair, freest and credible election, the three factors, especially money played prominent role.

Although the infrastructural turn around in Osogbo and ultra modern schools coupled with good road networks tagged ‘Ona Baba Ona’ in all the local government areas of the state under Aregbesola is a plus for his party’s candidate, Alhaji Oyetola.

On the contrary, irregular and half payment of salaries labelled ‘Hafusa’ is a Minus for the ruling party in the state.

Another Minus for the ruling APC is the defection of Alhaji Moshood Adeoti, the Secretary to the government under Aregbe’s administration to African Democratic Party (ADP) is a big blow because Iwo which Adeoti came from is the stronghold of progress Party.

Alhaji Moshood Adeoti

Of course, the major opposition party always capitalised on the weakness of the ruling party and carefully observed some of their programmes as a way of canvassing for votes.

Less than two months to the September 22nd governorship poll, if the backlog of salaries are not paid on time, workers may decide otherwise and this may be a Plus for the opposition parties.

Also, another Plus for the APC is the defection of Senator Omisore from PDP to SDP. This is because, most of the Chieftains in the PDP moved with Omisore, thus, this is indeed; a Minus for the party that promised to wrestle power from the APC.

Unlike Oyo state, where Ibadan, the state capital with 11 local governments including less city has 51 percent of the eligible voters, Osun state with 30 local governments housed strong cities such as Osogbo, Ede, Ife, Ilesha, Ila, Ikirun, Iwo, Ikire among others with appreciable votes.

If Aregbesola’s candidate wins, then it will be the first in the history of the state for Progressive Party to hand over to another Progressive Government. But if otherwise, it will be the replica of what happened in Ekiti state.

September 22nd is knocking and left for electorate in Osun state to determine who will pilot the affairs of the state for another four years.

On the side of the umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) the just concluded Ekiti governorship election is an improvement on the part of the commission, but there is need to intensify more effort, especially on the malfunctioning of card readers and collection of Permanent Voter cards ahead of the governorship poll.

No doubt, Nigerians are waiting and hoping for free, fair and credible election in Osun state and this will also serve as template for the forthcoming 2019 general elections.

By Akinyode Ishola

Mega Icon Magazine, Political Desk

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Politics

2027: Bunvic Has Edge in Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Reps Race – Agbomojo

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A political observer and public affairs commentator in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Oladejo Ezekiel Agbomojo, has said former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Olusegun Dokun Odebunmi, popularly known as Bunvic, is currently better positioned than other aspirants to reclaim the Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency seat in the 2027 general election.

Agbomojo, who is from Ogbomoso North Local Government Area of Oyo State, stressed that he is not a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying his position was based on his independent assessment of the political atmosphere in the constituency and feedback gathered from residents, community leaders and other stakeholders.

Speaking on political developments ahead of the 2027 general election, Agbomojo said Bunvic’s experience, grassroots acceptance and long-standing relationship with the people had given him an advantage over other aspirants seeking to represent the constituency in the House of Representatives.

According to him, the former lawmaker’s previous tenure in the Green Chamber provided him with the legislative experience and understanding required to address the developmental needs of the constituency.

He also identified Bunvic’s relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as one of his major political strengths, expressing optimism that such ties could facilitate the attraction of more federal projects, appointments and developmental opportunities to Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency if elected.

Agbomojo further commended Yeyeluwa Toyin Odebunmi, wife of the APC candidate, describing her as a compassionate woman whose humanitarian interventions have continued to earn admiration across the constituency and beyond.

He said her empowerment and outreach programmes have impacted women, youths, students and other vulnerable groups in different communities, adding that her activities have complemented her husband’s political efforts and further strengthened his acceptance among the electorate.

He also attributed Bunvic’s growing political advantage to what he described as renewed unity within the APC.

According to him, the cordial relationship between Bunvic and respected party leaders, including Senator Ayo Adeseun, as well as the emergence of the APC deputy governorship candidate from Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency, had further boosted the party’s prospects ahead of the 2027 elections.

Describing Bunvic as one of the most accessible and generous politicians in the Ogbomoso zone, Agbomojo said the former lawmaker had remained close to the people and consistently demonstrated a willingness to support individuals and communities whenever the opportunity arose. He added that his interactions with residents across the constituency indicated a growing belief that Bunvic deserved another opportunity to represent them at the Green Chamber.

“I am not speaking as an APC member because I am not one. This is simply my personal opinion based on what I have observed and the views I have heard from many people across Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa,” he said.

“From my interactions with residents, many believe Bunvic has the experience, the political connections and the grassroots support needed to represent the constituency effectively once again,” he added.

While expressing confidence in Bunvic’s chances, Agbomojo urged the former lawmaker to place greater emphasis on tackling youth unemployment if elected. He acknowledged Bunvic’s previous empowerment initiatives but maintained that sustainable job creation should remain one of his major priorities.

“Hon. Bunvic has done well in supporting young people through different empowerment initiatives, and I acknowledge those efforts. However, I want him to place even greater emphasis on employment generation because many of our youths are still searching for jobs. Creating sustainable employment opportunities should remain one of his major priorities if elected,” he said.

Agbomojo also called for increased Federal Government presence in Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency through the establishment of more federal institutions, infrastructure projects and programmes capable of creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. He said attracting more federal projects would not only improve residents’ standard of living but also create opportunities for young people and local businesses.

“I strongly believe Hon. Bunvic has what it takes to attract meaningful federal projects because of his experience, his relationships within government and his understanding of the needs of our people. What Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency needs now is greater federal presence, improved infrastructure and more employment opportunities for our youths,” he stressed  while maintaining that his views were entirely personal.

He, however, said the electorate would have the final say, urging political actors to conduct peaceful, issue-based campaigns that would promote the development and prosperity of Surulere/Ogo-Oluwa Federal Constituency.

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Oyo: Makinde presents staff of office to new Alakufo of Akufo

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The Oyo State Government on Friday presented the staff and instruments of office to the new Alakufo of Akufo in Ido Local Government Area,  Engr. Lamidi Taoreed Ayankojo Adefisoye.

The presentation, held at the Ido Local Government Secretariat, followed the approval of Adefisoye’s appointment by Governor Seyi Makinde.

A memo dated June 24, 2026, from the state Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, titled “Re: Filling of Vacant Stool of Alakufo,” conveyed the governor’s approval.

The memo, with reference number CB141/152/4T/119 and signed by the Director of Chieftaincy Matters, Mr Kola Abiola, on behalf of the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, stated that the appointment took effect from October 23, 2023.

It read in part, “I am directed to inform you with great pleasure that His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, has graciously approved your appointment as the Alakufo of Akufo with effect from October 23, 2023.”

The staff of office was presented to the monarch by the Chairman of Ido Local Government, Sheriff Aderemi Adeojo, alongside Abiola, who represented the state government.

Dignitaries at the ceremony included the Head of Local Government Administration in Ido, Alhaji Sarafadeen; the Director of Chieftaincy Matters in the council, Mr Adelu; the head of the Adefisoye family, Mogaji Nurudeen Adegbola Adefisoye; the head of the Okekegan family of Akufo, Asiwaju Tunde Black; and Alhaji AbdulAzeez AbdulSalam.

Speaking after receiving the staff of office, Adefisoye expressed appreciation to Makinde, the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, and the Ido Local Government chairman for their support.

He also thanked the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, and all those who contributed to the successful completion of the selection process.

The monarch expressed gratitude to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, and members of the Olubadan-in-Council for their support throughout the process.

He pledged to work closely with the state and local governments while promoting peace and development in the community.

Adefisoye promised to prioritise infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, youth and women empowerment, investment, security, transportation, and the preservation of Akufo’s cultural heritage.

He called on indigenes of the community, both at home and abroad, to unite in support of efforts aimed at accelerating the development of the town.

“I accept this honour with humility and a deep commitment to serve. This is not my vision alone; it is our collective mission. I invite all sons and daughters of Akufo, at home and abroad, to join hands with me in building a peaceful, united and prosperous community for future generations,” he said.

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Oyo South market men, women back Oseni, Tinubu, hail N90m support

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Market men and women across Oyo South Senatorial District have declared support for the senatorial ambition of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the district, Engr. Aderemi Oseni, and reaffirmed their backing for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.

The traders said their endorsement was driven by the lawmaker’s sustained grassroots interventions and what they described as his people-centred representation.

‎The endorsement came on Monday during an interactive engagement in Ibadan with market stakeholders drawn from the nine local government areas of the senatorial district.

At the event, Oseni supported market men and women across the district with N90 million, with each of the nine local government areas receiving N10 million to boost petty trading, expand businesses and stimulate grassroots economic activity.

‎In a statement by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, the lawmaker said the intervention was part of efforts to improve livelihoods and deepen economic inclusion, particularly among small-scale traders.

Oseni, who represents Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives and chairs the House Committee on the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), said empowering market operators remained central to his development agenda.

‎He said markets remained the heartbeat of local communities, noting that traders’ resilience continues to sustain families and drive local economies.

“This intervention is aimed at strengthening their businesses, easing economic pressure and encouraging enterprise at the grassroots,” he said.

The APC chieftain added that his representation would continue to focus on practical interventions with visible impact.

‎“Leadership must translate into visible impact. I remain committed to initiatives that support small businesses, create opportunities for growth and complement the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” he said.

Oseni also canvassed support for President Tinubu among traders in Oyo South, saying stronger alignment between federal, state, senatorial and local government leadership would accelerate development in the state.

‎He listed the Tinubu administration’s initiatives to include the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND, measures to curb industrial actions in tertiary institutions, tuition-free technical colleges, construction and rehabilitation of major highways, agricultural support programmes and subsidies for cancer treatment, fuel subsidy removal, which he noted has boosted state and local government revenues.

‎He urged traders to mobilise support for APC candidates in the next general elections, expressing confidence that Tinubu’s re-election would further improve residents’ welfare.

Speaking on behalf of the traders, the Coordinator of Market Men and Women in Oyo South Senatorial District and Babaloja of Omi-Adio and Ido Local Government, Chief Odedele Waheed, commended the turnout and described the engagement as a demonstration of confidence in Oseni’s leadership.

He lauded the lawmaker for sustained grassroots development efforts, noting that the N90 million support would strengthen businesses across the district.

‎Odedele also commended the leadership of market men and women in Oyo State for granting traders approval to meet and interact with the lawmaker, saying the platform allowed them to express concerns and understand his vision for Oyo South.

The traders pledged to mobilise support across markets in the district in favour of Oseni’s electoral bid and President Tinubu’s re-election.

‎Those present included the Babaloja of Ibadan North East, Ibrahim Balogun; Babaloja of Ibadan South West, Rafiu Iyo; Babaloja of Ibadan North West, Alhaji Tajudeen Hammed; Alhaji Abdulraman Salawudeen; Asiwaju Oloja of Ibarapa Zone, Chief Okanlawon John Adebisi; Babaloja of Ibadan North, Chief Adewole Basirat; and Iyaloja of Ibarapa Central, Chief Ige Fausat, among others.

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