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The Oyo State House of Assembly has raised concerns over the devastating fire incident that occurred earlier today at Ashamu Market, Kosobo, in Oyo East Local Government area of the State, calling for immediate intervention and long-term preventive measures inorder to curb such a further occurrence.

Presenting the motion under Matter of Urgent Public Importance, Hon. Olorunpoto Rahaman, representing Oyo East and West State Contituency informed the House that the inferno, which started in the early hours of the day, destroyed goods and properties worth millions of naira, leaving traders and business owners in distress.

While commending the swift response of the Oyo State Fire Service and the Federal Fire Service, which helped contain the fire, Hon. Rahaman emphasized the need for proactive steps to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

“While the fire posed a significant threat, I wish to commend the Oyo State Fire Service and the Federal Fire Service for their swift and courageous intervention, which helped to contain the fire and prevent further destruction. Their prompt response demonstrates their commitment to protecting lives and property, and we urge them to sustain this high level of service to our communities.” The motion stated

Following deliberations, the House urged the State Emergency Management Agency ( OYSEMA), to assess the extent of damage and provide immediate relief materials and financial assistance to affected traders.

The Lawmakers in addition appealed to the State Government to Prioritize the establishment of well equipped fire stations in major markets across the State, including Ashamu Market, Kosobo to ensure rapid emergency response.

The House however expressed solidarity with the affected traders and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring better safety measures in markets across the State.

The Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the State Government to conduct a comprehensive audit on the integrated Agricultural Silo Complex Project at Awe Junction in Oyo East Local Government inorder to assess the current status of the project, the total amount expended, and to take appropriate action based on the findings that emanated its abandonment.

In a motion moved by Hon. Olorunpoto Rahman, and Co – Sponsored by Hon.Oladeji Oparinde representing Oyo East and Afijio State Contituencies respectively , the Lawmakers explained that the importance of Silo is to store large quantities of grains and fermented feed ( silage ) , allowing farmers to preserve their harvest over time by protecting it from wealther elements and pest, thus ensuring consistent supply of foods for humans and animals effectively, bridging the gap between harvest and sale periods.

Presenting the motion at the Plenary on Tuesday, Hon. Olorunpoto noted that the purpose and critical roles of the Integrated Agricultural Silo in curbing the menace of food scarcity in Oyo State and Nation at large call for urgent attention that will yield positive influence to ensure its aim of food surplus.

“The Integrated Agricultural Silo Complex Project at Awe Junction was initiated with the aim of bolstering food security by providing substantial storage capacity for Agricultural produce, particularly grain. This infrastructure was intended to reduce post – harvest losses, stabilise food prices, and support farmers by ensuring that surplus produce could be stored and made available during periods of scarcity”

“Had the Integrated Agricultural Silo Complex completed , it could have played a vital role in mitigating the impact of food shortages by preserving surplus grains and releasing them when needed”.

“Given the current skyrocketed prices of food in Nigeria, completion of this project would go a long way to boost food supply and guarantee food security in the State and the Country at large.” The motion stated

He lamented that the Project, with a planned capacity of 10,000 metric tonnes was envisioned to be the largest and first of its kind in Nigeria , added that the project has been abandoned despite the expenditure of over #1.5 billion and over 11 years of work on – going .

Hon. Olorunpoto declared that Rahvet International Limited, the Contractor handling the construction facility has received payments totaling over #1.5 billion, and despite the significant financial outlay, the project still remains incomplete and has been abandoned.

“The prolonged abandonment of this project not only represents a significant wastage of public funds, but also deprives the State and the Nation of a crucial tool to manage food supply. ” He said

The House has however called on Rahvet International Limited to provide a detailed report on the progress of the project, the challenges encountered, and the steps required to complete the project.

Furthermore, the House also directed its Standing Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development to engage all stakeholders on the way forward and report back their findings to the House.

Calls on IBEDC to emulate the good gesture and improve on energy supply to the esteemed customers

The Oyo State House of Assembly has commended the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde for making efforts in ensuring the installation of stable power supply across the State Secretariat and its environs.

This was part of the resolves following a motion sponsored by the lawmaker representing Iseyin Itesiwaju State Constituency, Hon. Bamidele Adeola .

The motion titled “Need for Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company ( IBEDC ) to build sustainable good customers service relationship for a seamless discharge of their duties towards steady supply of Electricity in the State” revealed that Sustainable electricity supply is a fundamental driver of economic progress, hence Government and policymakers must invest in power generation, grid expansion and renewable energy sources to ensure long – term economic development.

The Lawmaker described efforts of Gov. Makinde as renewed hope to a journey of stable power supply across the State in no distance time.

“This cornerstone of economic development through renewable energy sources is the guilding philosophy of Governor Seyi Makinde’s Government towards achieving steady power supply in Oyo State.”

“The steady supply we are enjoying presently in the State Secretariat and its environs is a clear testimony to a journey of stable power supply across the State in no distance time”

Hon. Adeola noted that it’s important that the effort of the Government be emulated and complemented by IBEDC in Oyo State by redirecting its attention towards renewable energy sources for the esteemed customers.

He observed that there is lack of adequate information on some of the major activities of IBEDC that have direct impact on the customers such as electricity billing, power rationing , and disconnection, metres availability and Distribution, provision of transformers and installations amongst other services being rendered by IBEDC in the State.

“The communication gap has led to many unresolved issues and avoidable fracas between IBEDC and its customers on estimated billing, non – availability of pre – paid metres for interested customers and installation of transformers single handedly purchased by an individual or communities which is supposed to be the responsibility of IBEDC.” The motion stated

The House has however directed its Standing Committee on Energy to invite all the stakeholders and engage them in meaningful dialogue that will pave ways for lasting solution on power epidemic in Oyo State and report back within two weeks of the plenary.

Indigenous Borehole Drillers Association of Nigeria, IBDAN, Oyo State Chapter, has kick-started the year with prayers and presentation of Certificate of Membership to members and decoration of elders as Grand Patrons as a bid to appreciate thier contributions to the growths and development in the drilling industry of Oyo State.

The prayer session was headed by Pastor Adeniyi Badejo and Imam Lawal Oriolowo in the Christian and Islamic rites respectively at Association’s Secretariat, Sw3/359 Lemmy House, Fire bus- stop, Challenge, Ibadan recently.

According to the Chairman of the Association, Comrade Ajibola Anjorin, noted that “the event aim to give glory to God through prayers, supplication and praise couple with the fact to present of certificates and identification cards to bonafide members of the association”.

“The association is new with experienced practitioners of decades on the field, and we are of strong believe that we dig and God gives water; which is the center of our philosophy considering our motto.

He equally noted that, “Oyo State is a pacesetter, and to be noted that any notable or popular borehole drillers association springs out from Oyo state. We are open to work in unity and peace with all drillers’ associations collectively.

“We beg the federal and state governments respectively to assist us in respect to loans and grants. Expatriates have dominated our market as against the indigenous Drillers. Borehole water is main source of getting water in Nigeria as of today. We need training and equipments to meet up with the 21st century requirements and challenges.

“The government should help us to compete with these expatriates, they should also empower us. The government and concerned authorities should look into our matter as a bid to empower us in oyo state and Nigeria.

Equally saying at the event, the Grand patron of the association, Mogaji Abiola noted that, “We are seeking government’s support as regards empowerment, we have the Indians to compete our local jobs with, and they are better equipped than us because of the support system given to them by the government.

“In case we eventually get the jobs, some of us still have to go back to this set of people, I mean the Indians for rentage. And we are blessed with youths willing and able to work but the condition we find ourselves isn’t encouraging.

“On a very pleading note, we implore that Engr. Seyi Mankine’s administration to look into this matter in the area of employment, we want more government engagement. This is the reason, payment of our permit remains paramount to our members.”

Dignities that attended the prayer session in the industry are Mr. Quadri Ishola, Engr. Alaba, Mogaji Abiola, Engr. Abiona and Barr. Mojisola Hassan.

In a groundbreaking move, the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin has officially launched Nigeria’s first Post Legislative Scrutiny (PLS) Units in both the State Legislature and the Ministry of Justice

This pioneering initiative aims to strengthen legislative oversight, ensure accountability, and enhance the impact of laws passed by the Assembly.

The Speaker performed the official inauguration of the pioneer PLS units today at the Western Hall, Oyo State House of Assembly, Secretariat Ibadan

According to Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin who was represented by his deputy, Hon. Muhammad Abiodun Fadeyi, the introduction of PLS into our legislative framework is a testament to our commitment to deepening democracy, fostering inclusiveness, and ensuring that the voices of the people we serve resonate in the decisions that shape their lived.

Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin added that the PLS Unit is designed to provide a structured approach to reviewing the performance of laws, identifying gaps, and making necessary improvements.

“Our duty as lawmakers does not end with the passage of laws; we must ensure that these laws are effectively implemented and remain relevant in addressing societal needs. With this Unit now fully established in Oyo State, our Assembly is positioned to lead in ensuring that laws passed by this House translate into real benefits for our people”. Oyo Speaker said

The State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Ayodeji Aikomo represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Olubunmi Aare said the Post Legislative Scrutiny, PLS Unit would contribute to better legislation.

The establishment of the PLS Unit was made possible through the partnership between the National Institute for Democratic and Legislative Studies (NILDS) and the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD).

The Country Representative of WFD, Mr. Adebowale Olorunmola, praised the Oyo State House of Assembly for making history with the launch of the PLS Unit.

“The careful selection of the OYHA as pioneer for piloting the establishment of a PLS Unit is strategic, not only because of its position as one of the first legislative bodies in Nigeria, but also due to the laudable interest and commitment that the leadership of the House has shown towards the project. Though we recognise that the knowledge of PLS and its practice across the globe is still budding, the establishment of PLS Unit in Oyo State will serve as a model for other state legislatures in Nigeria as it symbolizes a commitment to fostering a democracy that is responsive to the needs of the citizenry”.

In his remarks, Prof Adewale Aderemi of NILDS said the importance of PLS in improving the quality of legislation could not be underestimated.

“PLS is really important. Oyo State benefitted at the expense of the National Assembly. We urge the House to use PLS to test itself and ensure that laws passed are having the desired effects in terms of implementation and compliance”.

Other highlight of the program was the inauguration and induction of pioneer staff of PLS units in the Oyo State House of Assembly and the State Ministry of Justice

The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin has advocated the establishment of more General Hospitals in underserved Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the State.

The call was contained in a motion, sponsored by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, and co-sponsored by Hon. P.G. Ojedokun of Ibarapa North/Central.

The motion was tagged “Need for the Executive arm of Government to establish General Hospitals in underserved LGAS, increased Healthcare personnel and expanded training opportunities for intern students across the State.”

According to the motion, six LGAs – Atiba, Ibadan South East, Ido, Ogo Oluwa, Ona Ara, and Oyo West – currently lack General Hospitals, leaving residents without access to essential healthcare services.

The motion noted that the absence of infrastructure has resulted in residents often having to travel long distances to access emergency, diagnostic, and other crucial healthcare services.

The motion also highlighted the challenges posed by inadequate healthcare personnel in existing facilities.

“Despite the recent recruitment drive of the Oyo State Government, a significant gap remains in delivering efficient, timely, and comprehensive healthcare across the state. Expanding this staffing initiative would help alleviate the workload on current staff, reduce burnout, and ensure a higher standard of care for all residents.”

Furthermore, the motion emphasized the importance of intern students in the health sector, including nurses, pharmacists, medical laboratory scientists, and physiotherapists.

“The current provision for intern students is insufficient, with only 24 pharmacists, 20 nurses, 23 laboratory scientists, and 25 physiotherapists accommodated annually.”

The motion urged the Executive Arm of Government to expand these internship provisions to support the immediate workforce needs and ensure a smooth transition into the professional workforce.

The motion applauded Governor Seyi Makinde for his efforts towards providing quality healthcare for the people.

It also called for sufficient funding and resources to train and develop intern students, ensuring they receive quality mentorship and hands-on training while equally recommending an integrated approach, combining the establishment of new General Hospitals with expanded healthcare personnel and increased intern opportunities.

The motion further instructef the Oyo State House of Assembly Committee on Health to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of all the State Government healthcare facilities.

This assessment is aimed at identifying facilities requiring upgrades as well as determine their viability.

The Oyo State House of Assembly has resumed plenary sessions for the year 2025, kicking off with interfaith prayer sessions.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin charged his colleagues to give their best in legislative activities, emphasizing the need for unity, love, and cooperation to successfully implement the 10th Assembly’s agenda.

He stressed that their representation is a call to serve God through humanity, requiring focus and determination to give back to their constituents.

” You are all welcome to the first plenary session of the new year 2025. I would like to appreciate everyone for their support in the year just ending. I also want to solicit our support and collaboration in the new year so that we can achieve more outstanding achievements. This interfaith prayer session has set the tone for a productive and collaborative legislative year in Oyo State.” Oyo Speaker said

The interfaith prayers were led by Chief Imam, Oyo State House of Assembly Muslim Community, Mallam Olaitan Sodiq and the Presiding Pastor of CAC, Oke-Ibukun Oluwa, English Mega Assembly, Oke Ado, Ibadan Jacob Ologunlaye, who urged lawmakers to commit their activities to God and prioritize unity and peaceful coexistence for rapid development.

The clerics emphasized on unity and peaceful coexistence among lawmakers, while encouraging lawmakers to dedicate themselves to the state’s development through legislative inputs.

The Oyo State House of Assembly has taken a bold step to address the rising tide of criminal activities in the state by introducing a motion to regulate the use of covered number plates, unregistered vehicles, political stickers, and dealer number plates.

The motion, which was sponsored by Hon. R.A. Mabaje (Ido), Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin (Ibarapa East), Hon. S.A Onaolapo (Ogbomoso South), Leader of the House, and Hon. Bamidele Adeola (Iseyin/Itesiwaju), co-sponsors was read at the floor of the House during Tuesday plenary.

It is aimed at preventing the misuse of these elements by individuals, including internet fraudsters and other criminal elements.

According to the motion, the National Road Traffic Regulations (NRTR), 2012, amended in 2016, provides comprehensive guidelines for vehicle registration, the proper use of number plates, and traffic safety.

It noted that despite these regulations, there has been an alarming rise in the misuse of covered number plates, unregistered vehicles, and dealer plates by individuals to evade law enforcement detection while engaging in crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, drug trafficking, and smuggling.

The motion cited several instances where individuals were apprehended for using unregistered vehicle and dealer plates linked to illegal firearms and contraband.

“In July 2023, several individuals were arrested during an FRSC operation in Ibadan for using unregistered vehicles and dealer plates. Similarly, in August 2023, a group of armed robbers evaded checkpoints using political stickers but were arrested after a chase. In September 2023, the Oyo State Police Command arrested a gang of kidnappers using covered plates vehicle number and unregistered vehicles to transport victims undetected.”

The motion also noted that the unauthorized use of covered vehicle number plates, political stickers, and government insignia on vehicles has become a growing problem in Oyo State.

“Many individuals misuse these elements to bypass police and traffic checks, compromise security checkpoints, and obstruct law enforcement. The widespread use of dealer plates by unauthorized persons also threatens public safety and reduces the State’s Internally Generated Revenue.”

The motion resolved to condemn in strong terms the illegal use of covered number plates, unregistered vehicles, political stickers, and dealer plates.

It also urged the Nigeria Police Force (Oyo State Police Command), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC: Oyo State Command), and other relevant security agencies to intensify operations aimed at identifying and apprehending individuals using vehicles with covered plates, unregistered vehicles, political stickers, and dealer plates.

Furthermore, the motion urged the Executive Arm of Government in Oyo State to ensure swift prosecution of all individuals violating traffic laws through the illegal use of unregistered vehicles, covered plates, dealer number plates, or political stickers, regardless of their social or political status.

It also called for the deployment of more surveillance facilities, such as CCTV cameras and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems, at critical junctions, highways, and urban centers across the State.

In a grand display of generosity and appreciation, the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin has empowered over 1000 constituents with a cash gift of #20,000 each.

The event, held at the Ori-Oke family residence of the Ogundoyins in Eruwa, Ibarapa East State Constituency, was part of the Speaker’s programs to empower people in his constituency and show appreciation for their immense support.

The 1000 beneficiaries, carefully selected from all 10 wards in the constituency, were overwhelmed with joy as they received the cash gift.

Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin, while presenting the cash, reiterated his commitment to supporting the businesses of his constituents, as promised.

He also assured them of his continued quality representation, demonstrating his dedication to their welfare.

“Today’s program is a testament to my tireless efforts to uplift my constituents and promote economic growth in my constituency. This initiative is not an isolated incident, it is a continuous exercise. I have continued to demonstrate my commitment to the development of Ibarapa East State Constituency. We are supporting our people’s business activities and boosting their morales. It is my own humble way of giving back to my community. “

The Speaker emphasized the need for unity and collaboration amongst all PDP members in the constituency.

He urged his constituents to continue supporting the present administration, assuring them that their efforts would yield positive results

The program was attended by an array of dignitaries, including party and ward executive officers, party chieftains, and supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ibarapa East State Constituency.

Recall that, the Speaker in July, 2024 empowered 300 artisans, traders and farmers with N50,000 each to boost their businesses. 100 students got N20,000 each while 110 youths and some community members received N25,000 each.

The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has praised the Oluyole Local Government Chairman, Engr. Akeem Olatunji, for organizing a successful Vocational Training program for 500 trainees drawn from the Local Government.

The Speaker gave the commendation while presenting certificates and working tools to the beneficiaries at a ceremony held on Tuesday at the Oluyole Local Government Secretariat, Idi Ayunre, Ibadan

The ceremony also featured presentation of distinguished Merit Awards to some outstanding individuals and corporate organisations that have made positive impacts on Oluyole Local Government.

The 500 trainees graduates who undergone a 4-week skill and vocational Life Enhancement Training Programme acquired valuable skills in various areas, including Fabric & Souvenirs, Food Technology, Makeup & Gele tying, Home Essentials, Barbing & Dreadlocks, and Kampala making.

The event also recognized individuals and corporate organizations that have made a positive impact on Oluyole Local Government, highlighting the importance of community partnerships and collaborations.

Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin, who was the special guest of honor at the event, expressed his admiration for the initiative

Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin commended Engr. Akeem Olatunji for his leadership sagacity.

The Speaker said the Council boss had embarked on numerous initiatives and projects aimed at improving the lives of Oluyole residents.

“I want to specially appreciate the Chairman, Oluyole Local Government, Engr. Akeem Olatunji For the empowerment and vocational training programme. It is also laudable that the Local Government appreciated individuals who have impacted the council positively. This empowerment program and awards ceremony embody the kind of positive change expected from Local Councils.”

Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin urged other local government chairmen to emulate Engr. Olatunji’s example.

I will like to acknowledge and recalle some of the remarkable achievements of Oluyole Local Government Chairman, Engr. Akeem Olatunji some of which include the construction of a Grade A Customary Court, empowerment of over 500 persons, and the establishment of an Amotekun base to enhance security in the area. Additionally, he successfully electrified the LG Secretariat and its environs, bringing light to the community after years of darkness.

“Other notable achievements are the construction of administrative offices for various agencies, rehabilitation of roads, and provision of free medical outreach, free eye treatment, and eye surgery for residents where over 500 residents received free eye treatment and glasses, while 20 individuals underwent free eye surgery for severe cataracts. These initiatives demonstrate Engr. Olatunji’s commitment to improving the lives of Oluyole residents and providing essential services to the community. This is really commendable. Well-done, Engr Akeem Olatunji.” Oyo Speaker said

The Oyo State House of Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has joined numerous sympathizers in mourning the death of Mrs. Tinuade Ladoja, wife of former Oyo State Governor and Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.

Mrs. Ladoja passed away on Monday at 71 after a brief illness.

Describing Mrs. Ladoja as a loving and caring woman, Ogundoyin said, “Our Baba has lost a beautiful and loving soul. May her soul rest eternally. I am using this medium to sympathize with the entire Ladoja family on this loss.

To Oba Rashidi Ladoja and his entire family, I offer my sincerest condolences. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy. May God grant Oba Rashidi Ladoja the strength to bear the loss” Oyo Speaker said

The Oyo state House of Assembly has commended the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde for embarking on various projects on infrastructural facilities across the State, urged him to continue in paying attention to critical local projects construction for betterment of Rural Communities.

This was part of resolves, following a Matter of Urgent Public Importance sponsored by the lawmaker representing Oyo East and West State Contituency, Hon. Olorunpoto Rahman while calling attention of the legislators to the Collapsed Culvets at Sanga and Enuoroba, located at Oyo West Local Government Area of the State.

The Lawmaker revealed that the Sanga Culvet is a critical route connecting areas such as Iseke, Ojongbodu, Farade to the bustling Akesan Market which is an economic hub that serves as commercial centre for thousands of people in the Local Government area.

” The culvet has completely Collapsed, cutting off these communities from vital economic activities. I would like to emphasize that Enuoroba hosts a cluster of Gaari producers , whose operations significantly contribute to the local economy”

“The Collapse of Enuoroba Culvet has affected economic activities of local Gaari producers, significantly affecting the livelihood of many”

Hon. Olorunpoto explained that the current inaccessibility due to the Collapsed infrastructure has strained the daily lives of residents and hindering economic productivity.

He added that beyond the economic implication, the Collapse Sanga and Enuoroba Culvets also poses a public safety hazard, leaving thousands of residents isolated and disconnected from health care,education, and emergency services.

” It is therefore imperative that urgent intervention be made to reconstruct and repair the damaged infrastructure ” Hon. Olorunpoto added.

The House has however commended the efforts of the State Government for spreading the dividends of democracy to the nook and cranny of the Pacesetter State, urged the Chairman of Oyo West Local Government Area to put measures in place to provide alternative routes for Communities and traders pending the Reconstruction of the Collapsed Culvets.

The House has however adjourned its plenary sitting till Wednesday, 16th of October, 2024.