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Tag: Governor Dapo Abiodun

  • COVID-19 Scare Triggers Suspension of Carnivals, Cross-over Gatherings in Ogun State

    COVID-19 Scare Triggers Suspension of Carnivals, Cross-over Gatherings in Ogun State

    …orders workers to stay at home till January 4

    Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has called for restraint in celebrations during the Christmas and New Year festivities as he announced the suspension of street carnivals, crowded cross-over night service, parties and similar gatherings in the State, amidst an increase in COVID-19 infections across the nation.

    The governor on Wednesday also directed all civil servants and other government workers in the State to proceed on Christmas and New Year holiday from Thursday, December 24.

    According to the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr Kunle Somorin, the directives were issued on Wednesday after a meeting between the state government and religious leaders from the League of Imams and the Christian Association of Nigeria as well as community leaders as part of the measures and guidelines for public health as the state prepares for a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

    The Governor directed that all Schools in the State are to remain closed until January 18, 2021, while all bars, nightclubs, pubs and event centres, recreational centres in the state have also been closed down indefinitely.

    The Governor further directed that markets are to open strictly between 8am and 4pm while maintaining social distancing and observing all COVID-19 protocols, including the use of face mask, provision of hand sanitizer and/or hand-washing equipment at every strategic point within their malls, shops and business premises.

    Gov Abiodun further directed that religious and worship centres should not exceed 50 per cent of their capacity. All services must also be in compliance with all COVID-19 protocols.

    In order to stem the spread of the second wave of the disease, Gov. Abiodun advised that “there should be no gatherings of more than 50 people at any event or ceremonies, such as conferences, congresses, office events, concerts, seminars, sporting activities, cross-over nights, end of year parties, weddings, naming, birthdays, anniversaries, street carnivals, etc until further notice”.

    He also called on motorcycle (okada), tricycle, bus, car, taxi and other transport operators to not to carry passengers above 50 percent of their capacity, in compliance with social distancing rules.

    While urging citizens to celebrate in moderation, Gov. Abiodun wished the people a Merry Christmas and prosperous 2021, saying they should take personal responsibilities and stay within their residences and not embark on travels within and outside the State to ensure they neither transmit nor contract the virus.

    For religious centres, the League of Imams and the Christian leaders adopted the earlier positions taken in the wake of COVID-19 earlier in the year such as:

    1. All worship activities must be observed by not more than 50percent of capacity

    2. All congregants must wear their face masks appropriately (that is, No facemask, No entry)

    3. There should be reliable sources of running water

    4. Worship centres should be adequately cleaned and disinfected before and after services

    5. Household bleach solution should be adequately prepared for disinfections

    6. There should be adequate provision and supervision of multiple Veronica Buckets for handwashing (fully automated handwashing machines are preferable)

    7. There should be provision of alcohol-based sanitiser which must be used before and at intervals of every 20 minutes as well as after service

    8. Worship centres should provide adequate toilet facilities with water

    9. It is paramount for Muslims to perform ablution at home and go to Mosque with their personal praying mats

    10. Qualified Medical Practitioners or trained personnels should check the temperature of worshippers with infrared thermometer before allowing them to enter worship centres

    11..There should be adequate medical support for sick persons

    12. All services on Friday/Sunday and other week days must adhere strictly to COVID-19 Guidelines

    13. There should be pre-designated standing position/sitting points to ensure not less than 2 meter distancing

    14. The duration of religious services should not be more than one hour. In addition, same duration must be observed at intervals, where there are multiple services

    15. The use of Air-conditioners should be discouraged while worship centres should be well ventilated with the use of fans

    16. There should not be any handshake/hugs by worshippers

    17. Proper awareness of the susceptibility of the aged and people with signs of ill-health should be adequately created among worshippers at all times

    18. Constant sensitisation of COVID-19 and its dangers should be included in sermon and goodwill messages

    19. Provision of isolation rooms is mandatory in all worship centres or facilities

    20. Religious services and events should be recorded with digital camera for record purposes

    21. Government will not hesitate to impose severe sanctions (including, but not limited to lockdown) on any Worship Centre that fails to comply with the laid down guidelines

    22. No social gathering should exceed 50 people while 2 meters social distancing must be observed in such gatherings

    23. Disposable elements should be used during Holy Communion instead of sharing cups

  • Ijebu-Ode-Epe Expressway Ready By Christmas 2020 – Ogun Governor

    Ijebu-Ode-Epe Expressway Ready By Christmas 2020 – Ogun Governor

    Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, weekend, declared that the 14.7km Ijebu-Ode-Epe Expressway would be ready for use by Christmas 2020.

    Governor Abiodun said: “The contractors have assured me that they will intensify work on this road. I have insisted because we have Christmas approaching, and so, they must complete one segment of this road – one lane all the way to Ijebu-Ode.

    “They, in turn assured me that in the next 10 days, they would have completed about eight to nine kilometres of one lane, and promised to ensure that by Christmas, the entire stretch going all the way from Epe to Ijebu-Ode is completed.

    “Furthermore, we’ve just awarded the interchange flyover contract that will allow for ease of traffic from this road into Ijebu-Ode and onto the expressway, so that we do not have a situation where people are speeding on this road and they run onto Sagamu-Ore Expressway and then we begin to have accidents like we’ve seen in other interchanges or intersections.

    “It is going to be a loop, that has been awarded. The contractor has started to mobilise and get ready to begin that loop.”

    Abiodun added that the opening of the road would further open up the corridor for more industrial activity, while noting that the road when completed would also increase the efficiency of travel and longevity of road.

    The governor pointed out that the road, when completed, would not only connect Ogun State to Lagos State, but connect the mid-western states of the country to the eastern part.

    He noted that the road would also help to reduce the burden of traffic on Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

    “This road connects not just Ogun State to Lagos State. It connects the rest of the mid-western Nigeria to the eastern part of the country, so by doing this road, we are increasing the efficiency of travel, and longevity of the road itself.

    “This stretch will now be open to more industrial activity as Lagos is expanding along Lekki corridor: this is where you have the Free Trade Zone, Dangote Refinery. Industrial expansion is in this area, so we are opening up this road to increased economic activity,” he said.

    Abiodun said his administration has awarded the construction of Molipa Expressway, while noting that construction work would soon commence as the contractors have already been mobilised.

    In their separate remarks, some residents, Oluwaseun Odumade and Oluwatoyin Omotayo, appreciated the Abiodun administration for the quality and network of road construction in Ijebu-Ode-Epe, Imowo-Ibadan and Awujale Palace-Stadium roads.

    They noted that the roads when completed would aid the economic development of Ijebu-Ode in particular, and Ogun State in general.

    Idowu Sowunmi

  • COVID-19: Ogun Orders Full Reopening of Churches, Mosque, Hotels

    COVID-19: Ogun Orders Full Reopening of Churches, Mosque, Hotels

    Ogun State, Gov. Dapo Abiodun, has announced the reopening of all hotels and other establishments providing accommodation for tourists such as guest houses, motels, including restaurants, eateries, fast food, lounges and bars. Also to reopen for business are entertainment centres- cinemas, viewing centres, marquees and event centres.

    In a statement announcing the development by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Kunle Somorin, the Governor was said to be pleased with the drop of COVID-19 infections.

    According to Somorin, while businesses can now fully reopen after a long period of lockdown restrictions occasioned by the dreaded virus, the hospitality establishments are to scrupulously adhere to a set of guidelines in order to keep up with the protocols aimed at further flattening the curve of COVID-19.

    “Government is aware of the excruciating implications of COVID-19 lockdown but we have emplaced measures and improved on testing to stem the tide. Empirical field research indicates that we have managed to stem community spread and treatment of the virus very well. We are convinced that opening of schools and entertainment centres would not harm our people. We would continue to monitor the development,” Somorin quoted Governor Abiodun.

    While reinstating the need to rebuild the economy, the State government maintained that it was irrevocably committed to the successful implementation of the “Building our Future Together” Agenda and as such would do everything possible to ensure that the people have increased prosperity that would place the State on a sound footing towards continued development.

    The statement said that government would not hesitate to do selective lockdown should there be any flagrant disobedience to the set COVID-19 protocols.

    These conditions set for the reopening of the entertainment centres are:

    i. Observance of temperature checks at all entry points.

    ii. Compulsory use of face masks within the premises/facilities.

    iii. Maintenance of two-metre social distancing by marking the floor to guide their customers on physical distancing.

    iv. Owners of business premises are required to offer only 50% of their space capacity to guests.

    v. Maintenance of physical distancing with a maximum of four persons per table, while Buffet services are not allowed.

    vi. Prior to holding any event, licence and safety clearance must be obtained from the Government.

    vii. the operation of all cinemas must not exceed 10pm.

    The statement added that all centres are to provide noise-proof equipment in the various facilities to ensure that they do not disturb the serenity of the neighbourhoods where they operate.

    While calling on owners of these facilities to cooperate with the State Government, Governor Abiodun warned that facilities that defy these guidelines would be sanctioned.

    “Let me say that our Task Force is already on the ground and is moving about to ensure compliance.

    “And, if perchance we discover that any of our centres is not complying or adhering to the laid down protocols, we will not hesitate to close down the centre,” he warned.

    Violation of these conditions, the statement concluded, would attract severe sanctions including, but not limited to fine and closure of premises.

  • #EndSARS Protest in Ogun: Governor Abiodun Calls for Dialogue

    #EndSARS Protest in Ogun: Governor Abiodun Calls for Dialogue

    Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has again called on the Nigerian youth to call off their protest and engage government in a meaningful dialogue to find amicable solutions to their demands.

    Governor Abiodun who made the call when he hosted representatives of students of higher institutions in the State in his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, said it was time to halt the protest before it degenerated into an wholesome situation that could cause choas in the country.

    “Please wind down the protest; you have spoken and the whole world has heard you. Where your freedom stops, is where that of others starts. Don’t allow this protest to degenerate into a situation where people will begin to attack each other.

    “It is time to dialogue so that we can find solutions to the problems you have highlighted. The National Economic Council has mandated us to handle the situation and here in Ogun State, we have inaugurated a panel to handle cases of brutality by security agencies with a view to ensure that appropriate punishment are meted out to those found wanting”, he explained.

    Prince Abiodun who said he identified with the protest, noted that Nigerians, like citizens of other free countries of the world, have the right to protest. He, however, observed that the Nigerian youth have finally demonstrated that they are resilient and could rise up to be counted when the occasion arises.

    He acknowledged the peaceful conduct of the students in the State since he assumed office, saying it was a demonstration of the qualities associated with people of the State and what they stand for.

    “I want to appreciate you for being disciplined. You have behaved well since I assumed office. Ogun State students have not been reported to have behaved irresponsibly. Keep it up. It is the way you conduct yourselves today that determine how far you go tomorrow”, the Governor said.

    The Governor said his administration has fashioned out ways of addressing the numerous challenges facing higher Institutions particularly in the area of electricity, transportation, provision of laboratories and workshops.

    He informed the students leaders that access roads on their campuses are currently under rehabilitation, while government was working out a Public Private Partnership arrangements to build hostels and address transportation issues.

    He said Goverrnment would reactivate their faulty transformers to improve power supply in their institutions.

    Government, he maintained, would look into bursary and scholarship, assuring the students that those who excel would be rewarded to serve as inspiration to others.

    Speaking earlier, the President, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Ogun State, Comrade Tomiwa Bamgbose, while reeling out the challenges confronting the students, lauded the Governor for intervening in the Tai Solarin College of Education crisis and giving automatic employment to best graduating students in many polytechnics and universities in the State.

    The President, National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOS), Comrade Gbemileke Okuronbi, appreciated the Governor for his strides in the education sector, pleading for the payment of bursary to ameliorate the suffering of the students.

  • Buhari, Sanwo-Olu, Abiodun, PDP Commiserate with Makinde over Passing of Mother

    President Muhammadu Buhari, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his Ogun State counterpart, Dapo Abiodun, and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have commiserated with Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and his entire family over the passing of their mother and the Matriarch of the Makinde family, Madam Omojolagbe Abigail Makinde.

    The late matriarch of the Makinde dynasty died at the age of 81 at her Ikolaba residence in Ibadan.

    The President sent condolences to friends, family and associates of the matriarch, whose testimony of love and kind heartedness continues to be shared, particularly her warmth to the poor and less privileged.

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    Buhari urged friends and family members to find solace in the good works of the governor’s mother, who invested heavily in fear of God, love and hard work, and ensured her children and grandchildren followed same training of diligence, discipline and charity.

    The President, in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, prayed God to receive the soul of the departed, and comfort the family.

    Sanwo-Olu, in his condolence message, prayed God to grant the Makindes the fortitude to bear the loss.

    “I commiserate with Governor Seyi Makinde on the passing to eternal life of his dear mother, Mrs Abigail Makinde.

    “While I extend my condolences to the Makinde family, I pray that God grants them the grace and courage to bear the loss.

    “May Mama’s soul rest eternally,” Sanwo-Olu stated.

    Also, Ogun State governor has said he received the news of the death of Mama Makinde with great shock and disbelief.

    Abiodun described Mama Makinde as a frank and straightforward woman who raised her children in a godly way and was a source of strength to those she came in contact with during her life time.

    “Mama was a rare gem, a supportive wife, a loving mother who would stop at nothing to ensure the welfare of her children and others who crossed her path.

    “She was not only a mother to her children, but mother to children sir other parents, as she did not discriminate, but treated everyone equally. She made positive impact on the lives of people in her community. I am sure she will greatly missed,” Abiodun said.

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    He noted that he was particularly pained by her death when preparation was on top gear for her 82nd birthday, adding that with her death, the country, Oyo State and Governor Makinde had lost a good adviser, motivator and a great counsellor.

    “It is a pity that mama died at a period when her wise counseling was mostly needed not only in Oyo State, but in Nigeria.

    “I sympathise with my brother, Governor Seyi Makinde. I know this is indeed a trying period for him. It is my prayer that the Almighty God will grant him the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss,” Abiodun said.

    The governor while praying for the repose of soul of the deceased, called on Nigerians to emulate Mama Makinde who lived a life of service to humanity, saying this would imprint their names on the sand of time.

    PDP National Working Committee, on behalf of the National Executive Committee and entire PDP family, had consoled Governor Makinde, over the passage of his amiable and highly revered mother.

    The party said: “Our party grieves over the death of this great personality, particularly at this time Oyo state and indeed the nation at large, need her prayers, intercessions and wise counsel the most.

    “Madam Makinde was a rare gem; an exceptionally resourceful, upright, straightforward and patriotic Nigerian, who sacrificially committed her life towards the good, welfare and development of others rather than herself.

    “Though we deeply mourn at this point, our party draws solace from the fact that she lived a fulfilled life and bequeathed to our nation, a patriot in Governor Makinde.

    “Indeed, Governor Makinde’s exceptional commitment to duty, forthrightness in governance, love for his people and Nigerians at large, all stem from the tutelage and nurturing he received from his mother.

    “Our party indeed identify with Governor Makinde and the Makinde family at this moment of grief.

    “We also commiserate with the government and people of Oyo state and pray God to grant us all the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss, particularly given that she rests on in the bosom of her Lord and creator.”

    A statement by Jagun Olubadan, Muyiwa Makinde, on behalf of the family had Thursday announced that the late matriarch slept peacefully in the Lord in the early hours of October 15.

    “With total submission to the will of the Almighty God, we announce the passing to the great beyond of our mother, Mrs. Abigail Makinde, who departed this world in the early hours of today, Thursday, October 15, 2020.

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    “Though Mama gave no indication of any sickness, she slept peacefully in the Lord at the age of 81, in the early hours of the day at her Ibadan home, 7B, Oyeleke Street, Ikolaba, Ibadan.

    “While we appreciate the Almighty for sparing her life thus far, we must confess that we will sorely miss her counsel, motherly role and impact on the lives of her children and the grandchildren.

    “We will equally miss her impactful role as a stabilising force in the family, her community and especially Oyo State, which is currently being governed by her son and our brother, Engineer Seyi Makinde.

    “We sincerely appreciate the prayers and condolences of our numerous well-wishers.

    “May Mama’s soul rest peacefully with her maker,” the statement said.

    Idowu Sowunmi

  • Ogun Gov Appoints BBNaija Winner, Laycon, Youth Ambassador, Gifts him ₦5m, 3Bedroom Apartment

    Ogun Gov Appoints BBNaija Winner, Laycon, Youth Ambassador, Gifts him ₦5m, 3Bedroom Apartment

    Winner of the Big Brother Naija Lockdown edition, Olamilekan Agbeleshe, popularly known as Laycon, has been appointed youth ambassador by Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State.

    The appointment was made known by the governor when he played host to the 26year old BBN winner at the executive chamber of the governor’s office in Abẹokuta, the state capital.

    Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun appoints Big Brother Naija Lockdown Edition Winner as Youth Ambassador, at the Governor’s Office, Abeokuta, the State Capital, Tuesday 6th October, 2020.
    Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun appoints Big Brother Naija Lockdown Edition Winner as Youth Ambassador, at the Governor’s Office, Abeokuta, the State Capital, Tuesday 6th October, 2020.

    Prince Abiodun also disclosed that the reality show winner received a three bedroom apartment and N5million gifts.

    “Once again, I congratulate you and on this note, I hereby appoint you as Youth Ambassador of Ogun State. I look forward to working with you to be a model of good character, excellence, good virtues, calmness, integrity that are general attributes of Ogun State, and in fact, your homestead, Odeda.

    “We believe that you will help inspire our teeming youths to channel their energies towards positive engagements and shun vices such as robbery, drug abuse, cultism, advanced fee fraud, cybercrimes and kidnapping amongst other negative tendencies,” the governor announced.

    Further in his remark, Governor Abiodun revealed that his administration plans to establish an entertainment village for the purpose of nursing budding talents in the state.

    “On behalf of the Government and good people of Ogun State, I join your fans across the world to welcome you to your Home State.

    “I also want to congratulate you on your success after 71 days as a housemate at the Year 2020 Big Brother Naija, Lockdown Edition.”

    While praising his guest for his good behaviour in the BBN House, Governor Abiodun diẹ not hesitate to note that young Nigerians can learn from Laycon’s demeanor based on how he related well with the other 19 housemates from different backgrounds.

    Governor Abiodun said Laycon, “demonstrated the Omoluabi component which is the primary ingredient of an Ogun State-born Nigerian. Despite all the odds, temptations, and provocations in the House, I am proud that you came out unscathed and uninvolved in any scandal or immoral act.

    “You have also demonstrated with the way you carried out your assigned tasks in the House with comportment; intellectual responses to questions and; your spirit of fair-play, that your academic achievement at the University of Lagos was earned. This has also shown that our Universities can and still produce graduates that are found worthy in character and good learning”, Governor Abiodun said.

  • Ogun: We’ll Settle Outstanding Entitlements, Abiodun Promises, Tasks New Appointees on Prudent Management

    Ogun: We’ll Settle Outstanding Entitlements, Abiodun Promises, Tasks New Appointees on Prudent Management

    • Swears in six new permanent secretaries, Principals-General and Headteachers-General
    • Appoints new Board Chair and Members

    Ogun State government has assured that all outstanding entitlements of its workers would be paid, just as it commended the State trade union leaders for their civil and mature ways of handling issues.

    The State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun made the pledge at the swearing-in of new Permanent Secretaries, Principals General and Headteachers General, at the Governor’s office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

    The newly sworn in permanent secretaries and their assigned offices are Engr (Dr) Lateef Yusuf, Ministry of Works and Infrastructure; Mr Kehinde Onasanya, Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs; Mrs Olusola Osasona, Ministry of Transport; Mr Johnson Odeyemi, Teaching Service Commission; Mr Moses Adebayo, Bureau of Protocols and Ceremonial Services and Mr Dahunsi Ogunleye, Bureau of Service Matters.

    Also sworn-in are four Principals-General: Mrs Sekina Ogunwolu (Egba zone); Mrs Rashidat Bolujoko (Ijebu zone); Mr Ganiyu Ramoni (Remo zone) and Mrs Afolake Lokulo-Sodipe (Yewa zone), while Mr Semiu Akinbo (Egba zone) Mrs Sarat Adedeji (Ijebu zone); Mr Emmanuel Kalejaiye (Remo zone) and Mr Julius Babatunde (Yewa zone) are the new Headteachers General.

    Gov. Abiodun said he regards workers in the State as co-builders, who have contributed their quota to the advancement of the State, they deserve to be well taken care off.

    “Our administration will not, and I repeat, deny you of the rewards of your meritorious and hard-work. You have all worked and contributed your quotas to the continued development of our dear State. Personally, as a child of retired Public Servants, I appreciate the import of these entitlements to the welfare, wellness and wellbeing of workers, either, serving and retired.

    “I am particularly using this occasion to state the commitment of our administration to off-set all outstanding dues and other entitlements as financial status of the State improves”, the Governor promised.

    He noted that his administration that does not renege on its promises, as it was deploying resources towards ensuring a conducive environment for the workers for efficient and effective service delivery, maintaining that workers’ pensions and other entitlements were some of the issues that attracted its attention and immediate intervention.

    According to the Goverrnor, “we cleared the backlogs of promotions of over 10,000 personnel in the education industry. We also sent some on overseas training as we are committed to human capital development. I must state that the process to clear the backlogs of the 2018, 2019 and 2020 promotion exercises are at advance level.

    While congratulating the new Permanent Secretaries, Governor Abiodun said their appointments are testaments to their past records and a challenge to do more in the service of the State and humanity, adding that the process that led to their appointments was based on seniority, merit, professionalism, equity, inclusiveness and the overall interest of the Public Service and the State in general.

    He also reminded them that their appointment was a call to greater service and as the standard bearers of the State Public Service, they are to interface between the government and the public by bringing more initiatives to improve the implementation of government policies and programmes, as the emergence of COVID-19 has continued to increase the expectations of the government.

    The Governor added that his government was restoring the positions of the Principals-General and Headteachers- General to motivate teachers to attain higher position of authority, urging the new appointees to ensure that their appointments translate into immediate positive results of improving education in the State.

    The State helmsman assured that government would continue to reward deserving officers who are industrious and exhibiting commitment to service delivery

    “We will continue to engage the Labour Unions and other stakeholders. And, I commend all the union leaders and other stakeholders for their civil and mature approaches of engagement as they continue to share in our commitment towards improving on workers’ welfare in Ogun State.

    Similarly, Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun Tuesday, appointed new Chairmen and members of Boards of Government Agencies in the state and charged them to make probity and prudent management of resources their watchword, urging them to see their appointment as a call to service.

    The Governor who made the charge at the swearing-in ceremony for the new members of Boards and Parastatals, held at the June 12 Cultural Center, Kuto, Abeokuta, admonished the appointees not to constitute themselves into cost centers that would further eat into the already lean finances of the state government.

    “As members of Boards of Governments Agencies, you are all enjoined to make probity your watchword, and be prudent in the management of both human and material resources under your care, you must consider all members of staff as the important catalysts to achieving the greatness of your Boards.

    “You should all collectively and individually work hard to add value to your Boards rather than constitute yourselves into cost centres that would further eat into the already lean finances of Government,” he said.

    Abiodun expressed the desire of his administration to continue giving responsibilities to visionary leaders, opined that having visionary and purposeful leaders at the helms of affairs in agencies and corporations would further translate and facilitate the present administration’s developmental agenda across all sectors of the States economy.

    The State helmsman noted that the selection process for the chairmen and their members was a herculean task, as the State was blessed with highly qualified men and women who are equally qualified for the job.

    Prince Abiodun further disclosed that his administration would continue to adopt the inclusive approach for positive contributions towards the development of the State, assuring that the policies and programmes of government would not be determined by the fancy of one individual or group.

    “Our policies and programmes will not be determined by the fancy of one individual or group. Ogun State belongs to all of us, therefore, all the people will have a say in matters relating to the continued development of our dear State,” he assured.

    The Governor also charged the new board chairmen and their members to stay clear of needless competitions that could complicate their operations, urging them to imbibe the guiding philosophy of the “building the future together agenda” of the present administration.

    Responding on behalf of the newly sworn in chairmen and members of boards and parastatals, the Chairman, Ogun State Housing Corporation, who is also the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Chief Yemi Sanusi, while promising that they would put in their best, called for support of the government to actualise the mission and vision of the government.

    The boards that were inaugurated are those of Ogun State Housing Corporation, Ogun State Health Management Board, Ogun State Agro Services Corporation and Ogun State Bulk Purchasing now Gateway Trading Company.

    The rest are those of Ogun State Agric Multi-Purpose Credit Agency (OSAMCA), Ogun State Market Development Board, Ogun State Broadcasting Corporation, Ogun State Alternate Medicine Board, Food Crops Marketing Board and the Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA).

    Photos:

  • Abiodun Tasks Ogun Labour Unions to Return to Negotiation Table

    Abiodun Tasks Ogun Labour Unions to Return to Negotiation Table

    The Governor Dapo Abiodun-led Ogun State Government Thursday charged the representatives of the organised labour unions in the state to return to the negotiation table to resolve the grey areas over the demands for better welfare for the workers in the interest of the generality of the people of the state.

    The Abiodun administration described the abrupt withdrawal of the labour team from negotiation and unilateral declaration of one-week strike as unfair, indecorous and violation of the principles of collective bargaining.

    The government added that it was a surprise that labour would take the step even when the negotiation process was still ongoing.

    Abiodun, in a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Tokunbo Talabi, said government was taken aback as “labour manifested brinkmanship, where instead of labour input into the Pension Reform Bill as agreed, they issued a notice of Trade Dispute with demands that transcended the Pension Reform Bill.”

    The statement traced the genesis of the crisis to the Pension Reform Bill passed by Ogun State House of Assembly which labour noted did not seek their opinion and inputs.

    Talabi said the government after due apology for the lapses set up a team to liaise with the Assembly and representatives of labour union to trash out areas of concerns.

    The secretary said on receipt of Trade Dispute Notice, government mandated its team to engage the labour union leaders with the first meeting held on September 14 progressing to September 15, where issues were narrowed down to specific towards amicable resolutions.

    But surprisingly, he said, instead of notifying government of the outcome of the meeting, the labour union leaders took excuse to attend to their members in order to conclude the negotiation, only to proceed to declare the meeting deadlock and announced the commencement of warning strike the next day (September 16).

    “This is most unfortunate and a negation of civility and expected ethos that should underpin negotiations between government (particularly one that has demonstrated in many ways its commitment to staff welfare) and organised labour who are presumed partners in the task of developing the state and catering for the welfare and wellbeing of all citizens and residents.

    “This behaviour lends credence to insinuations that labour may be acting out a script,” he said.

    Talabi gave the breakdown of the inherited outstanding personnel liabilities from the last administration: Gratuity of exited (retired) personnel: state personnel accumulated from 2014-2019 – N18.5 billion; Local Government and SUBEB 2011-2019 – N32.5 billion; Sub-total Gratuity – N51.0 billion; Leave Bonus from 2015-2019 – N9.2 billion; Contributory Pension Liabilities (state government) – N20.1 billion; Local Government and SUBEB – N26.4 billion; Sub-total Contributory Pension Liabilities – N46.5 billion; Promotion Arrears – N217 Million; totalling N106.9 billion.

    According to him, the past administration only remitted the deductions from staff salary for check off dues and cooperative deductions in the twilight of its exit, leaving out accumulated Contributory Pensions.

    On the financial implications of labour unions’ demands, the Abiodun administration said it was jointly agreed that a committee be set up to fashion out an appropriate pension system for the state, look into the implementation of New Minimum Wage which would increase the monthly wage bill by N1.04 billion and address the payment of Leave Bonus.

    But the statement said labour unions wanted an immediate payment of three-year arrears, amounting to approximately N9.2 billion, while on payment of gratuity, labour leaders demanded immediate payment of three years arrears which is approximately N24 billion and they wanted additional payment of about N1.2 billion for the underpayment by the last administration to some categories of retired personnel.

    The government added that labour unions demanded for Gross Salary Payment, regular remittance of deductions from staff salaries as appropriate, noting that government has already commenced regular remittance of these deductions and would continue to do so.

    Other demands according to the statement were the outstanding three-year promotion (2018-2020), putting the summary of these demands by labour unions to about N32.5 billion for immediate disbursement and subsequent additional N2 billion monthly on top of the current wage bill.

    The secretary noted that when government signed the agreement with labour unions for the implementation of the new minimum wage, “no one envisaged COVID-19 and its debilitating socio-economic impact that has constrained the Internally Generated Revenue of the state and the unplanned expenditures in the wake of the pandemic.

    “This has forced Ogun State like most states in the country to review our 2020 budget down from approximately N450 billion to N280 billion, about 38 per cent downward review.

    “A cursory look at the financial implications of the demands of labour in comparison to the budget size will see a glaring demonstration of the government to be as accommodating of the demands as possible, even in the face of manifest COVID-19 induced constraints and uncertainty,” he explained.

    On the labour unions’ demand for the payment of the new minimum wage, which has been seen as a priority, the statement said government has agreed to the implementation of the new minimum wage for all categories of workers, commencing from November, 2020, while government would also continue to ensure regular remittance of deductions from staff salary to avoid addition to the backlog and gradually clear any outstanding arrears.

    The statement, however, added: “The remaining demands will be subjects of further joint reviews, the first of which will be in March 2021.”

    The government said: “As an administration, we remain committed to the welfare of Ogun State workers as we are to the fulfilment of our electoral promises to the generality of Ogun State citizens and residents.”

    Idowu Sowunmi

  • Gov. Abiodun appoints more parastatal board members, Senior Special Assistants

    Gov. Abiodun appoints more parastatal board members, Senior Special Assistants

    Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun Thursday announced appointments on the board of some parastatals and of some persons as Senior Special Assistants.

    The appointments were confirmed in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor, Kunle Somorin.

    According to Somorin, the appointees, like in previous appointment exercises were drawn from across membership of all the political parties in consonance with the administration’s policy to promote inclusiveness, merit and experience in its quest to building a peaceful and a more prosperous future for citizens of the State.

    The CPS explained that the governor had repeatedly promised a wholesome approach to governance and stressed his resolve to appoint people from diverse experience and backgrounds as political appointees towards reengineering the State and to ensure poverty alleviation and wealth creation among the people.

    Those appointed on the board of Ògùn state Television (OGTV) are Commrade Tunde Oladunjoye as Chairman, Bola Akinyan, Lekan Adejare, Olukotun Segun, Sunday Akinyemi Matthew, Avose Johnson, G.O. Ogunfowora, Hon Muri Awolaja, Akeem Anibi and Wale Idowu as members.

    Appointees on the board of Ògùn State Printing Corp include: Sola Otesile as Chairman, Zangonde Daniel Sonayon, Bagbuyi Segun Tai, Dorcas Odugbesan, Gabriel Ogunyemi, Prince Adetona Fatai and Barr. Tunde Ogunsola as members

    On the board of Ògùn State Water Corporation are: Hon. Fatai Sowemimo as Chairman, Wale Omowunmi, Evang. Kehinde Akinsoji, Femi Ade Rasheed and Yomi Olojeloju as members.

    Similarly, the six persons appointed by the Governor as Senior Special Assistants are: Popoola Adesina Bolaji, Seyi Odumuyiwa, Bode Edun, Rufai Abidemi, Segun Ojolowo and Afeez Balogun

    In his statement, the CPS said Governor Abiodun charged the new appointees to be forward thinking in the discharge of the onerous task of moving the State to the next level.

    Somorin quoted Governor Abiodun to have said: “The Building Our Future Together is more than a mantra. It is a policy thrust that we will leave no stone unturned to actualize.

    “Our inclusiveness is deliberate, because together, we will achieve more and at a faster pace”, the statement read.

  • COVID-19: Governor Abiodun grants Ogun residents tax reliefs

    COVID-19: Governor Abiodun grants Ogun residents tax reliefs

    As part of efforts to cushion economic downturn occasioned by the effect of COVID-19, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has granted various tax reliefs to residents of the state.

    In a statement on Saturday, the Governor said he has directed the Ogun State Internal Revenue Service (OIRS) to immediately effect these tax reliefs to reduce the COVID-19 induced burden on taxpayers in the state.

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    According to Governor Abiodun, the types of taxes that taxpayers will enjoy reliefs include: “6-month deadline extension for filling of 2019 income tax returns by the self employed/informal sector from March 31, 2020 to September 30.

    “8-month extension of filling of 2019 annual PAYE returns by PAYE operators/tax agents from January 31, 2020 to September 30, as well as complete waiver of interest and penalty for late filling for the extension period.

    “Complete waiver of interest and penalty for late remittance of monthly PAYE for the extension period.

    “Same waiver for late payment of Direct Assessment/Personal Income Tax by the self employed from January 1, 2020 to December 31.

    “Waiver of weekly tax by operators and promoters of pool and betting businesses from April 1, 2020 to June 30”, the categories stated in parts.

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    Prince Abiodun also stated that: “The Tax Audit Reconciliation Committee (TARC) will also henceforth adopt video conferencing as the default mode for their meetings to continue ensuring ease of doing business while maintaining physical distancing.”

    He therefore urged taxpayers in Ogun State to make the best use of the reliefs as they make necessary payments to the State’s designated accounts in approved banks.