PENKELEMESI IS A GOAL, ALAS, IT'S OWN GOAL

PENKELEMESI IS A GOAL, ALAS, IT'S OWN GOAL

I pondered on how this young man emerged as the candidate of the APC in Oyo State, contrary to the rating of the incumbent governor which described him as disloyal but I have since concluded that money truly answers all things, particularly in Nigeria politics.

"It is a goal" is the noise that rent the air and you quickly look for where to see the replay and savour the skills and manoeuvre that led to the goal. It's when you get inside that you discover it's the fans of the opponent that are excited and you realize that it was an own goal by your striker; what a tragedy!

The first own goal was the emergence of a man the governor (coach) already described has injury and not in form. Doing exactly opposite to that appeared like good diversionary strategy until the said star player started playing woefully. The second own goal is the emergence of a candidate whose paternal legacy he banks on is more of liability than asset because Oyo state people can remember that it's a legacy against free education and welfarism.

Just last week, Ajimobi scored an own goal by saying Bayo Adelabu Penkelemesi is humble like himself; the governor had unwittingly attracted attention and critical appraisal of his humility so that we can juxtapose with Adelabu, again we realized he has attacked the personality of his candidate by comparing their humility rating. Ajimobi is very far from being humble and he has confirmed to the people that Adelabu is not humble and will continue with his haughtiness if elected. That's the third own goal.
Then last night in a live interview, true to the comparison with Gov Ajimobi, Adelabu begged for forgiveness for Ajimobi failures; exactly the same way Ajimobi would have done to rid himself of the moral burden of his successor and the imminent electoral failure it portends. Admittance of failures which Gov Ajimobi and his diehard followers describe as monumental success, which made them call him an architect of modern Oyo State.

Adelabu has chosen not to deceive himself by playing to the gallery by joining the bandwagon to hail Ajimobi failures as success. That's an own goal that is going to tear the delicate APC team apart. The Ajimobi that we know can never take this, lying low, he will hit back and harder.
Scoring own goals in the first half of the match can be redeemable if the margin is not too much but when you score another own goal  when the margin is like 4:0 and within five minutes injury time, then you demoralise your team mates, fatigue sets in faster with that and the fans become quiet with mouth opened; hoping against hope for an upturn in the scoreline within give minutes. It is an "impossicant".

ANOTHER IMMINENT OWN GOAL: From experience, when a team is demoralised by an own goal, close to the end of the match, there is possibility of other owns or goals by the opponent because the team have been forced into playing nonsense; in their minds, they are blaming one another for the woes, regretting the selection and other decisions. It will be very unfortunate for this team is their fans go the typical way of Nigerian fans who will start booing their team when the performance is abysmal like this one. It's already 4:0 and the match isn't over; I doubt if a dead fowl can eat corn. 

As for me,  the technical team of PDP will continue to play massive defense and attack until the last whistle; electoral victory is more than wishful thinking and reckless spending.

Rotimi Johnson Ojasope 

SA Communication, MKB

DR. KOLA BALOGUN SUES FOR PEACE AS THE ELECTIONS DRAW CLOSER

DR. KOLA BALOGUN SUES FOR PEACE AS THE ELECTIONS DRAW CLOSER:

The candidate of the PDP for Oyo South senatorial district in the 2019 elections, Dr. Mohammed Kola Balogun has sued for peace and tolerance as the 2019 elections draw closer. Dr. Kola Balogun said this after he visited the homes of the victims of attacks by hoodlums suspected to be members of APC in the Adelabu compound of Ibadan SouthEast local government.

The 3 victims who were attacked when they were pasting posters of Engr Seyi Makinde for governor in the evening of Tuesday were attacked by hoodlums they said are members of the ruling party in the area. They sustained different life strengthening wounds in the encounter. Dr. Kola Balogun addressed the PDP supporters and the youths in the neighborhood after he moved the victims from a local clinic to a famous standard hospital nearby.

The senatorial candidate also implore our youths not to yield themselves as instruments of violence and destruction in the hands of any politician and he begged them not to take the laws into their hands in the face of provocation. He concluded that PDP members must be more patient as the APC members continue to throw tantrums for losing more grounds daily.

Signed.

Rotimi Johnson Ojasope
SA Communication, MKB

DR. KOLA BALOGUN FELICITATES WITH CHRISTIANS AND ENGR SEYI MAKINDE

The candidate of the People's Democratic Party for the Oyo South senatorial district in the 2019 election, Dr. Mohammed Kola Balogun expresses his greetings to the Christian brethren for the Christmas. He wishes all a joyful season, admonishing to live peacefully in love and express same because this season is all about sacrificial love.

Dr.  Kola Balogun also congratulates the governorship candidate of the PDP in Oyo State ,Engr Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde on his 51st birthday. He prays his new year brings the manifestations of his desires and renewed strength for humanitarian services; joining his other well wishers to pray this lover of the people will celebrate next birthday as the governor of Oyo State.

Signed

Rotimi Johnson Ojasope
SA on Communication to MKB

LAWMAKERS BOOED BUHARI AT BUDGET PRESENTATION

President Muhammadu Buhari, while addressing the joint session listed the achievements of his administration, was interrupted intermittently by protesting lawmakers.

As he mentioned each achievement, they chorused, ‘No!’ The development forced the All Progressives Congress lawmakers to clash as the opposition lawmakers booed the President.

When he said, “We have weathered the storms and made progress on every front,” They screamed, “Nooooo! Boooo!”

When he said, “The economy has recovered well,‎” the lawmakers screamed again.

Buhari who was displeased with the development was forced to say, “The world is watching us and we are supposed to be above this.” Nigerians should know they way they threat me.

The protesters however continued, particularly when Buhari said his administration had made success in its anti-corruption campaign.

DR KOLA BALOGUN CONGRATULATES AJIMOBI ON HIS BIRTHDAY AND COMMENDS HIM FOR MAKING IT ELABORATE FAREWELL FROM POLITICS:

The PDP Oyo South senatorial district candidate for the 2019 election, Dr.  Mohammed Kola Balogun has congratulated the Governor of Oyo State and the APC Oyo South senatorial candidate,  Senator Isiaka Abiola Ajimobi on the occasion of his 69th birthday and the last birthday as an elected official.

According to the statement released by the SA on Communication to Dr. Kola Balogun, Pst Rotimi Johnson Ojasope, Dr. Balogun made this statement after he responded to a question thrown at him by one of the pressmen after the PDP senatorial stakeholders meeting on Saturday in Ibadan. He was asked what he thinks of the elaborate party for the 69th birthday of the Governor.

Dr. Kola Balogun wishes his main opponent in the election many years of vibrant health and says the 69th birthday was celebrated elaborately because his elder brother (Egbon Ajimobi) knows he won't be in government in any capacity by next year when he will be 70 years. He  added, we rejoice with him and we understand why he is celebrating it so much but promises not to take the people of Oyo South for granted by being insensitive, when he,  Kola Balogun is elected to represent them at the Senate Chambers on February 16, 2019.

Signed.

Rotimi Johnson Ojasope
SA. Communication MKB.

DR KOLA BALOGUN COMMENDS SDP ENDORSEMENT OF ENGR SEYI MAKINDE GOVERNORSHIP CANDIDATURE

DR. KOLA BALOGUN COMMENDS SDP ENDORSEMENT OF ENGR SEYI MAKINDE GOVERNORSHIP CANDIDATURE.

The candidate of the PDP for Oyo South senatorial district in the 2019 election, Dr.  Mohammed Kola Balogun has commended the Oyo State chapter of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), for the endorsement of the PDP governorship candidate, Engr Seyi Makinde for the 2019 elections.

In a statement released by his SA on Communication, Dr. Kola Balogun described the step as patriotic and worthy of emulation; claiming they have put the people of Oyo State first by this step. Dr. Kola Balogun used the opportunity to congratulate Engr Oluseyi Makinde for this development, claiming many more people are seeing why he could work with Engr Seyi Makinde, the PDP and harmonise their vision for mutual benefits of the people of Oyo State, particularly the bottom-up approach to governance of Engr Seyi Makinde.

Dr. Kola Balogun says he is set to work with the President to be,  Alh Atiku Abubakar to realise his goals of creating 3million jobs annually, 20,00MW of electricity and making Nigeria become a tax haven, with the lowest tax rate in Africa, so that foreign investors can be attracted to Nigeria.

Signed.

Rotimi Johnson Ojasope
SA. Communication to Dr. Kola Balogun.

DR. KOLA BALOGUN SAYS NEXT YEAR ELECTION WILL BE REVOLUTIONARY

The PDP candidate for Oyo South senatorial district in the 2019 election,  Dr.  Mohammed Kola Balogun says the next election is not going to be ordinary and it is going to be revolutionary. Dr.  Kola Balogun said this on a political personality program monitored in Ibadan, Oyo State.
According to the statement released by his Special Assistant on Communication, Mr. Rotimi Johnson Ojasope, Dr.  Kola Balogun says the people are hungry, deprived and angry; those who are in office already have more work to do to convince the electorate on why they should be voted back into office. 
Dr. Kola Balogun also stated that his decision to join the PDP and run for the Oyo South senatorial district is a joint one by his supporters and followers because it also gives opportunity to serve and he's here to serve the people. He goes ahead to assure the people of Oyo State that the 2019 elections won't go in the way of Osun state in terms of manipulation and security intimidation because if Sen. Ademola Adeleke could push APC into runoff, then in a general election, they can't have such security agents intimidation. He assures the people of Oyo State that their votes will count and their mandates will not be stolen because there are measures in place to forestall malpractices before, during and immediately after the elections. He concluded by saying financial inducement will fail in the 2019 elections because people may collect money but majority will only vote according to their conscience.

DR. KOLA BALOGUN MOURNS IYALODE AMINAT ABIODUN.

Dr. Mohammed Kola Balogun joins the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, the Olubadan in Council and the entire Ibadan people, home and abroad to mourn the demise of the 13th Iyalode of Ibadanland, Alhaja Aminat Abiodun.

The death of Iyalode of Ibadan, Alhaja Aminat Abiodun which occurred in the early hours of yesterday was received with shock by Dr. Mohammed Kola Balogun, the PDP Oyo South senatorial candidate in the 2019 election but also with the consolation that she lived a fulfilled and impacting life till her last breathe.

In a statement released by his special assistant on Communication, Mr. Rotimi Johnson Ojasope, Dr. Kola Balogun described the late Iyalode of Ibadan as a great woman of substance,  the only woman among the Olubadan in Council,  a very successful business woman,  advocate of better life for women and the masses; rightly described as Obabirin (female King)  because of her uncompromising and dedicated leadership roles among women. 

Dr. Kola Balogun, who hails from the Ali-Iwo ruling compound of Ibadanland says the late Iyalode Aminat Abiodun who dies at 94yrs will be greatly missed and prays that Allah grants the family, the Olubadan in Council and the entire Ibadan the fortitude to bear this great loss.

Dr. Kola Balogun inaugurates senatorial campaign committee

The new Candidate of the PDP for Oyo South senatorial district, Dr. Mohammed Kola Balogun inaugurated his senatorial campaign committee on Monday 03/12/2018 at the campaign office at Mokola.

Dr. Kola Balogun was one of the governorship aspirants in the ADC before he defected to the PDP about 4wks ago. 
The Ag Director General of the campaign organization, Mogaji Muyiwa Makinde charged the Apex and campaign committees to hit the ground running because the candidate is contesting against two incumbents; Gov Ajimobi and Senator Rilwan Akanbi. 

Dr.  Kola Balogun in his words appreciated the committees, expressed his sincere willingness to serve the people of the district and charged them  on issued based one-on-one campaign throughout the 9 LGs of the senatorial districts.

GROUP URGES NIGERIANS TO VOTE ATIKU/OBI

The Atiku Action Group 2019 has urged Nigerians  to vote wisely and elect Atiku/Obi on February 16, 2019.
In a press statement released by the State Coordinator,  Comrade Olu Omotosho and signed by the publicity Secretary,  Rotimi Johnson Ojasope, the group urge the good people of Oyo State and Nigerians in general to prepare to come out enmasse to vote PDP in 2019.
This was the brief press statement after the inauguration of the state working committee at the state secretariat,  Salvation Army road,  Ibadan.

Scepter News,  Ibadan.

PROFILE OF ENGR. RAUFU ADEREMI OLANIYAN fnse

PROFILE OF ENGR. RAUFU ADEREMI OLANIYAN fnse

Raufu Aderemi Olaniyan was born on Thursday, February 25, 1960 in Igboho of Oke Ogun area of Oyo State. He's from Oorelope local government of Oke Ogun. He's married with children and speaks both Yoruba and English fluently.

OBJECTIVE:
To positively impact lives of People.

SCHOOLS ATTENDED WITH DATES
1. Irepo Grammar School, Igboho, Oyo state 1980
2. The University of Nigeria Nsukka 1985.

CERTIFICATE OBTAINED WITH DATES
1. West Africa School Certificate, First Division 1980
2. The University of Nigeria Nsukka, B.Sc Civil Engineering ( 2nd Class Upper) 1985.
3. NYSC Certificate 1986
4. COREN Registered Engineer 1992
5. Member Nigerian Society of Engineers
6. Fellow Nigeria society of Engineers.

OTHER CERTIFICATES AWARDED
1. Justice of the Peace of Oyo state 2015
2. Certificate of Service Oyo North Agricultural Development Project 1988

SHORT TERM COURSES ATTENDED WITH DATES
1. A Special course on surface irrigation by Ogun Osun River Basin Rural Development Authority 1988
2. Short course on project organisation, planning and cost control, Uniport Konsult 1988
3. Planning and design  of small earth dams by Federal Ministry of Agriculture, water resources and Rural Development 1988.
4. Workshop on construction and Maintenance of local government infrastructures in Nigeria, Falculty of Technology, University of Ibadan 1988.
5. Course on building and engineering maintenance by the Nigerian Society of Engineers 1991.
6. Course on bridge design by Sheladia Associates, USA. 1996.
7. Course on Project Management, Graduate School, United States Department of Agriculture 1996.
8. Course on Pavement Management and Maintenance Management by International Road federation, UK 1997I'M
9. Course on management Communication for Development by Management Training and Development Institute, 1998.
10. Course on Investment Analysis For Project  by Management Training and Development Institute, USA 1998.
11. Course on Project circle Management by International Management Training Centre, Great Britain 1999.

JOB EXPERIENCE

1980-1988
1. As Civil Engineer with Oyo North Agricultural Development Projecg, ONADEP ( World Bank Financed Project) and as Hydrological/ Civil Engineer involved in the design and construction of earth dams and appurtenace. Also involved in the construction and maintenance of rural roads. This project covered 10 local government areas of the present Oyo North ( Oke- Ogun).

1989
2. As Civil Engineer ( Construction, Operation and Maintenance COM Department). Ogun Osun Rivers Basin Development. A Parastatal of Federal Ministry of Water Resources.

1990-1991
3. Civil Engineer with Local government Service Commission of Oyo state.
1991- 1996
4. As Deputy Director ( Rural Roads and Infrastructures). Director of food, Road and Rural Infrastructures of office of the Governor Oyo state.

1996- 2000
5. Various Civil Engineer positions in the Oyo state Ministry of Works and Transport. Activities included design and project supervision of a good number of roads including the Multi-state Road projects, a world Bank Financed project.

2000- 2004
6. Superintendent Engineer Ministry of Works and Transport, Oyo state in charge of roads in Ibadan municipality and environs.

2004- 2007
7. General Man ( Pioneer) Oyo State Road Maintenance Agency.

2007- 2011
8. Permanent Secretary in the Oyo state Civil Service. Retired in October, 2011.

2011- Till Date

9. MD/CEO West Midland Construction Company, 130 Oyo Road, Opposite NISER, Orogun, Ibadan.
10. Chairman/ CEO, Blueline Construction Services, Ibadan.
11. Director Channel Distribution Ltd. Lagos. ( A computer software and hardware company).
Hobbies: Sports, travelling and meeting people.

Contacts:
10, Bawls Akintayo Strret, Jericho, Ibadan
Phone Number: 08133575757, 08022340148
E-mail Address: remdt22@yahoo.co.uk

100 DAYS TO OYO 2019 AND WHY SEYI MAKINDE IS UNSTOPPABLE

100 DAYS TO OYO 2019 AND WHY SEYI MAKINDE IS UNSTOPPABLE:

This phenomenon called Engr Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde is the man to beat in the 2019 governorship election in Oyo State. He's the candidate of PDP, a philanthropist, an industrialist, a welfarist and a humble man of great consequential goodwill. This is not to say his victory is automatic but as far as opinion polls are concerned, judging by the voices of the masses and the preparations so far; Seyi Makinde leads and others follow.  Let's see the comparative advantage of Seyi Makinde over his opponents:

1. Adebayo Adelabu of APC: This is the candidate of the APC in the 2019 elections. Though an Ibadan socialite and former Deputy Governor of CBN; he's a new entrant into partisan politics. A young and dynamic man and probably the youngest of the major contenders but the godfather issue is a big moral burden that can not be waved aside. The Koseleri factor is a third term for Ajimobi by proxy and the strength of the party kept reducing because of how Adelabu emerged as the APC candidate; the buying off of the godfathers with the alleged $10million and the unusual silence of his co-contenders for the tickets, it's an uneasy silence. Another baggage around Adelabu's neck is the Penkelemesi's educational policy which was anti-masses in the days of his grandfather, he vehemently opposed the free education of Awolowo those days. Remember, the standard of education in Oyo State has fallen so much that most higher institutions in the state have been shut, lectures are owed many months of salaries, schools fundings have stopped and changed to subventions. Yet, someone campaigning with the legacy of his grandfather wants to come in with promise of continuity and consolidation. The poser is: what's there to consolidate or continue in the present Oyo State; is it education, agriculture, health or relationship with traditional institutions? It is a common word comment among the populace that APC can never win in Oyo State without rigging but the people are determined to resist such because of the Osun state experience. We await his activities as the campaign starts officially on the 1st of December.

2. Olufemi Lanlehin of ADC? :This name is with a question mark because the crises rocking the party are enormous. Though the Lanlehin group are rejoicing, the desenting voices are stronger and there are many cases in court. Senator Olufemi Lanlehin is a lover man of peace with great experience but in his sixties and has the former Governor and Ibadan high Chief as his godfather. They were in Accord party 13 months ago, joined PDP,  left for ADC about four months ago and there are rumours of leaving for Zenith Labour Party if the crises in the ADC deprive him of the guber ticket. The bottom line is that the people of Oyo State don't see the APC as major contender for the governorship seat again, unlike when the Ladoja group and the Unity group from APC joined the party. The uncertainty around the party and their governorship aspiration is a major factor against their success in the elections. Fair enough, many of the candidates for other offices are in good footings but the governorship is a loss already.

3. Chief Also Akala of ADP: The Otun of the source and former governor of Oyo State is a big factor in the 2019 elections. As the governorship candidate of the ADP, he's too big a factor to be ignored. He's the most experienced of the candidates and has an electorate catchment area, Ogbomoso. He's articulate and a great mobilizer but at about 70yrs, people are asking what does he want again. The ADP has no widespread structure in Oyo State but people still think Akala will determine how other candidates fair in Ogbomoso and is not by his party but across the parties. Otunba Akala is so experienced and enigmatic that you can't predict is moves until he manifests them. He can't grab the governorship but whoever becomes the next governor of Oyo State must have kissed this beautiful bride. He's approachable, pleasant and connected but his campaign might also go the way of the 2015 election again.
4. Other parties: the remaining political parties in the race evidently have no spread throughout the state and many of them don't have Presidential candidate. This factor reduces their publicity and popularity. Many of them will come out later to pledge their supports for either of the two main political parties; PDP and APC.

Finally, the Engr Seyi Makinde factor keep getting stronger with the crises rocking ADC,  the moral burden challenges of APC and the depletion of her numerical strength with the exit of the Unity Forum. Remember,  APC won 2015 election with 32% of votes cast but now have about half of her members in other political parties. It is evident that the APC strength towards the 2019 elections is more divided than that of PDP in 2015. Historically in Oyo State elections, many political stalwarts decamp to the party of the most likely winner of the governorship election and PDP has been at the receiving end because the entrance opened last week with 3 governorship aspirants of ADC coming to join the PDP. Many are negotiating and more entrants are expected in the next few months.

Also,  many political parties are warming up to pledge their allegiance and support for the PDP candidate and this is comforting. The greatest reservation on people's mind concerning the 2019 elections is how to secure the votes and ensure they are well counted and count. I can confirm unequivocally that there are tamperproof, and airtight arrangements by all political parties in Oyo State to ensure is the votes cast that are correctly collated and declared winners; all opposition parties are united in ensuring the winners are not robbed and the erroneous Federal might fails in manipulating the outcomes of the 2019 elections in Oyo State; the mandate of the people can never be stolen in 2019.

100 days to the 2019 governorship election, the parties and candidates are preparing to start their campaigns and few of these factors above can change positively or negatively but however is goes, PDP remains the party to beat.

The countdown continues...

LESSON FROM MY MENTOR ON WHY WE NEED AGILE AND SOUND PRESIDENT

If you've have followed my posts and comments for some time, you would know I have mentors for every aspect of my life; real mentors that I consult and they know the role they have to play in helping me become a better leader. Today,  in honor of my public leadership mentor (who had his birthday recently), Dr. Onaolapo Olusegun Soleye, the former Minister of Finance, socioeconomic consultant and public speaker per excellence, I share from his fountain of experience and tutorial he gave me on being thorough as public leader.

Prof Dora Akunyili (of  blessed memory) became the Director General of NAFDAC sometimes in 2001 but the story of how she was appointed and the games that played out is a lesson for all public leaders and those who want true positive change in Nigeria. When Gen Buhari was in charge of PTF during Abacha regime, Dora Akunyili was in charge of Southeast operations of the Organisation. Dr. Soleye paid a visit to Gen Buhari (his former boss when he was Minister) and while waiting at the reception, he overheard conversation by two staff of PTF about how one Dora Akunyili returned €12,000 to the organization after it was duly approved and released. As expected, these staff were disgusted by what they considered stupidity.

As soon as Dr. Soleye had access to Buhari and after exchange of pleasantries, he asked who is Dora Akunyili and why was the money approved for her. According to Buhari explanation, Dora Akinyili needed to go for an operation in UK and applied for that amount of money but while the process was delayed, an NGO funded the trip and operation. The money from PTF was ready by the time she came back from the operation and she returned it to the treasury because it was no longer needed. Dr. Soleye was impressed by this conduct and he never forgot the name.

When Chief Olusegun Obasanjo became the President, Dr. Soleye approached his friend, the President that there's a patriotic woman who can serve well in his government and in NAFDAC because the tenure on the DG just lapsed. That sounded good to Obasanjo and he gladly summoned the Minister of Health and handed Dora's profile to him and asked that she be considered for NAFDAC DG.
About two weeks later, Dr Soleye was with his friend again and asked about the update on the appointment and the President remembered that the Minister told him that Prof Dora Akunyili doesn't have the prerequisites disciplines for the task. Dr. Soleye objected vehemently and went to his car to bring another copy of the file (he had many copies). He gave Obasanjo to confirm for himself and this time, he went through it carefully but Dr Soleye said he's a very fast reader. Obasanjo was boiling with fury as he went through the file and asked "how can he have the gut to tell me such lies?" He vowed to sack the Minister immediately but Dr. Soleye reminded him he's a civilian President now and he must tread softly. Obasanjo placed the Minister under close watch and soon after that, he got more reasons to sack him. Prof Dora Akunyili was an expert in pharmacology and we all know her passion and exploits in the NAFDAC. She never succumbed to pressures from within and without and her memories remain blessed.

The lesson: Obasanjo admitted that he trusted the Minister wrongly and he should have scrutinized the file before handing over to the Minister and he knows better now. The Minister had another candidate for the job and he guessed right that the President didn't know the content of the file. Many times, Ministers and personal aides subvert the will of the Chief Executives without their Principals knowing. This example made Obasanjo buckle down more to the task and he became more diligent in scrutinising documents and following up on instructions given.

Democracy is different from the military where the subordinates obey the last order and the wish of the superior is a command. In democracy, the subordinates subtly subvert the commands of the Principals and use his name unwittingly to commit various atrocities. It happens everywhere and anytime.

In Nigeria, the agility and soundness of mind of the leader are very important; in Yoruba land, we call it "wise inside and outside". There are too many rots in the system and the leader can't stand aloof or be absentminded. He must have prying eyes and discerning mind. A lazy or weak leader can not be effective and efficient in handling the affairs of this great country. Just imagine what we could have lost if Dora Akunyili  didn't become the Director General of NAFDAC then.

That was about 17yrs ago and the rottenness has increased now and there's no how a weak, sick or lazy President can produce positive results. Obasanjo learnt his lessons early enough and that was why there was no noise of cabal during his terms. Now, some mischievous and evil fellows subvert the wishes of the unaware President and made Nigeria suffer because of their selfishness.

I am Rotimi Johnson Ojasope.

ATIKU, THE GOAL GETTER

I have watched the strides of this man for sometimes and the more I study him, the more restpect I have for him. My leadership bias makes me focus on the ways of rulers more than their acts and that exposes me to why they do what they do. Atiku hinted his next challenge when he acknowledged Obasanjo in his acceptance speech and visiting the same with high delegation is not a surprise.


Let me admit that I never liked him,  particularly because of his cases with baba Obasanjo but I have watched his handling of the cases and how he triumphed legally in all; so if there's no legal impediment against him, what are his faults then? That question was the beginning of my turning point about his personality. Then, I noticed his desire to be President persisted even when he lost the

election in AC, no traces of bitterness or violent words like the other man I don't want to mention.


Interestingly, I have noticed Atiku's hand in many administrations since 2007, in legislature, judiciary and executive arms; he helps many to fulfill their aspirations, irrespective of tribes and religions. He spends money on prospective leaders all over Nigeria and I know of many from southwest Nigeria; Alh Atiku Abubakar has become "a go to leader" for over two decades and that simply explains why many state governors lined up behind him against his boss. I think he knows better now though.


Love him or hate him, I knew he is the most capable to unseat President Buhari because many Buhari appointees will gladly betray their Boss for Atiku because of relationship that transcends public office. He has birthed and nurtured many leaders across the country and it is pay back time. What we need at this time in Nigeria is good leadership and this is the best from APC and PDP. I don't know of other political parties but Nigeria is a two party State in practice.


The visit to Obasanjo less than a week after his emergence as candidate of the party is commendable and when I looked at the array of dignitaries he took along, I knew this is a man that is determined to get the forgiveness of his former Boss. The trio of Bishop Oyedepo, Matthew Kukah and Sheik Gumi are personalities that say the truth without mincing words. They are not partisan but going for a reconciliation meeting like that will naturally melt Obasanjo's heart; no wonder Obasanjo kept saying he's now remorseful and repositioned. How can Obasanjo, human being still hold on to offences after Muslim and Christian leaders plead with him to forgive Atiku? Beyond those who came with Atiku,  I foresee many secret meetings with Obasanjo in the last few days on the same matter and many phone calls too. In Yoruba land, you will tell yourself that after such honour, it's insults and reproaches that are left and no man wants that.


With these gestures from Atiku, it is evident that it won't be operation crocodile dance when peace pally can work; he will deploy crises management techniques and superb human relations methods to achieve the ultimate goals. He's increasing his influence all over the country and he has personal relationship with leaders of other religions in the country. That sounds more like a detribalised, liberal and forthright leader we need now.


They say he's corrupt and I wonder why the duo of Buhari and Obasanjo were not able to establish on simple case of corruption against him till date; calling him corrupt politician is wishing he's corrupt so that Nigerians can have basis for hatred but Nigerians are wiser and they know how to ask the pertinent questions now.


Leadership Quote: "You measure the size of the accomplishment by the obstacles you have to overcome to reach your goals.” - Booker T. Washington


Well,  I am Atikulating my Atikulation and I hope it was well Atikulated.

OSUN ELECTION AND THE LESSONS THEREOF. By The PDP Caterers

OSUN ELECTION AND THE LESSONS THEREOF. By The PDP Caterers
The Osun governorship election is still raising dust but we must commend the people of Osun state (not state of Osun) for coming out,  defending their mandate and for the exemplary peaceful conducts. We have lessons worthy of mentioning:

1. THE PEACEFUL CONDUCTS: The party officials and the electorate were determinedly peaceful that when the INEC official was caught in the act of tearing results, they didn't linch him, they only arrested and handed him over to the security agents.

2. THE TURNOUT: The impressive turnout is also commendable. They came out early and enmasse. That suggests they are informed and prepared for the process that will lead to better life and polity. 

3. 48 CANDIDATES: The unprecedented high number of governorship candidates suggests many people think they can outperform the incumbent. They are disgusted by low performance and every Tom, dick and Harry thinks he will do far better than Ogbeni Aregbesola.

4. INEC IMPROVEMENTS: The arrangements and deployment of staff and materials were so smooth and impressive. The positioning of the cubicle and the operations of the card readers are worthy of note. We hope the 2019 general elections will record similar smooth operations.

5. OPPOSITION PARTIES: The leading opposition parties too must learn from the breaking of ranks and divided strength.  The votes of PDP, SDP and ADC would have put the victory to rest. In fact,  just PDP and SDP would give enough margin to send Shiver down the spine of APC nationally. Continuing in divided strength and ego trip will only cause more harm than good.

6. CHOICE OF CANDIDATES: Something is established in this election; when our people are so impoverished, they will vote candidate fielded by the strongest opposition party; intimidating CV or WAEC dropout notwithstanding. Any available alternative from a strong party with solid structure becomes appealing.
  
7. POLITICAL ARROGANCE: The arrogance displayed by incumbents and the gross misconducts will become something of the past because defeat is now the price for careless talks and uncomely behaviors. At least, any political leader will think twice before openly declaring that he's richer than a state.  Also, the way party stalwarts are mismanaged to the extent of defection in couple of weeks to the election will be prevented. It happened to PDP in 2014 and APC has repeated the same mistake; not humble enough to learn from PDP past mistakes.

8. OYO STATE APC JITTERY? The leadership of the ruling party are in unpleasant quietness after the shocking outcome of the Osun state election which Gov Ajimobi was on ground to give Aregbesola moral and financial supports. Obviously, money will fail in the 2019 elections and thereally shall be handsome  penalty  for political arrogance, inflammatory remarks and disrespect for traditional institutions. Remember, when APC was intact in Oyo State, it won 2015 elections with just 34% of the votes cast; how much more the APC with Unity Forum and about to go into political oblivion after the explosive primaries on September 27 with only one accredited delegate, Gov. Abiola Ajimobi.

Oyo State is on the verge of returning to her pacesetter status and re-branded and reepositioned PDP is positioned to midwife the liberation of our people.

Thanks.
The PDP Caterers.

AJIMOBI AND INJURY TIME RECONCILIATION

AJIMOBI AND INJURY TIME RECONCILIATION; WHO IS FOOLING WHO?

The Governor of Oyo State has benefited from breaking the jinx of "no second term" but the he has woefully failed in meeting the expectations of the people and consolidating on relationships of the first term. The role of relationships; both vertical  and horizontal can not be over emphasized in public leadership and the Governor was seen in embrace with four categories of people he wronged in Oyo State:

Firstly, the issue of Obaship and the Olubadan in Council crises; this issue has been seriously politicised and the council divided into the Olubadan supporters and the Governor supporters. Will embracing the Paramount ruler in public placate those who felt bad that the Governor derided his King?

Secondly,  the Osi Olubadan and Ajimobi issue is there;  the political rivalry and the Obaship crisis that have brought the suspicion of being responsible for the Obaship reformation enforced by the Governor, despite being in court?  Hmmm!  If Kabiyesi is magnanimous enough to forgive the Governor, one of his subjects,  will the aggrieved Mogajis and other indegenes forget? The new Kings might not publicly acknowledge but the fear of what happens in post Ajimobi regime will lock somewhere in their minds.

Thirdly,  the way Governor Ajimobi celebrated Chief Adebayo Ayala with record transfer but didn't even put him on the list of likely candidates of APC for the 2019 elections. The embrace and all the laughter are laced with time bomb. 

Finally on Ayefele, what the APC goons are spreading that Ayefele has gone to beg Ajimobi is pathetic and rather unfortunate. All evidence and past antecedence of the Governor  suggest the so called meeting was a tactical remorseful adventure. The constituted authority only invited Ayefele and the Fresh FM management because of the APC fortune in the 2019 elections; though the outcome of fateful for them.

In conclusion,  you can't deceive all the people all the time and a tiny piece of faeces by the tip of plate of stew; you remove it from the plate, it will remain registered in the mind.  My lovely mother always condemn the belatedness of good gesture with this popular adage: This is the early time for the aged woman to be crying because she wants to have her own child.

As much as we hail the peace processes of the Governor and the recent paparazzi that greeted them, let those celebrating his prowess remember that the Governor can't use bulldozers to pack ballot papers into the box for APC.  If Ayefele is magnanimous enough to forgive the Governor,  some of us have not forgotten the trauma and agony on faces of the fans and friends of the Radio station and the words that portrayed Dr. Olayinka Joel Ayefele as a common criminal.

All these shenanigans and the abbulition of the cat is simply to devour the beef;  our mumu don do and this time,  the ballot revolution that will sweep APC away will be mightier than 2015 tsunami. We shall christen it the PVC-Tsunami.

MEDIA OFFICERS Vs PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICERS

MEDIA OFFICERS Vs PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICERS:

Many government officials in Nigeria don't have PR experts among their aides, they have journalists and media aides that are former employees of Mass media organisations. That someone is or was a staff of media organization doesn't make one a Public relations expert because there is more to public affairs management than press conferences and statements. 

Public affairs management without analyses of feedback,  envisioning likely reactions to policy and programme is as useless as not having public affairs department at all. Public Relations is grossly deficient in our polity and that explains many careless comments and unsavoury actions from our public leaders in Nigeria. 

I must also add that few PR experts around public officers find it as source of income and not place of professional practice because their principals are not interested in their professional inputs. So,  they just keep quiet, enjoy the paraphernalia of office and collect their salaries. No doubt, any government official with very good and functional public relations or affairs department will always stand out. We have been rightly taught on the importance of head of public affairs or relations in management team so that they can make inputs at the management level, not just cleaning the mess after the public blunder.

If you suspect that this write-up is motivated by the demolition of Yinka Ayefele's music house, you're not far from the truth; if only the governor could envisage the mass protest, condemnations of the actions and the effects on the acceptability of the APC in the election year, I think the demolition could have been avoided or executed after court conviction. Note,  damage control and cleaning the mess is always more expensive than paying it forward by regretting in advance and totally avoiding the realities of wrong actions or words. 

Sincerely,  as a PR man,  it is a lot better to work with man of integrity than constituted authority; better to be the subject of a listener than a ruler who sees nothing good in others or believes he knows it all.  Politicians undermine PR job more than any other people in Nigeria because sometimes they misunderstand notoriety for popularity,  they assume their fame is sufficient to sway public opinion at all times. 

Quote: “PR means telling the truth and working ethically – even when all the media want is headlines and all the public wants is scapegoats. Public relations fails when there is no integrity.” – Viv Segal of Sefin Marketing

Good day!

Ojasope for Rep...

Seyi Makinde for Governor...

OmiTitun is flowing....

YINKA AYEFELE REACTS TO THREAT TO DEMOLISH FRESH FM

Below is the press statement by Ayefele, published exactly as issued:

Our attention has been drawn to a purported press release signed by Mr. Toye Arulogun, Commissioner for Information and Culture, Oyo State where he said that the Music House Complex Contravenes Planning laws and is responsible for three fatal accidents that occurred on the road in the last nine months on which the government have received petitions.

We want to make it clear that Music House followed due process in the construction of the building and got relevant approvals from state departments and agencies associated with lands and buildings.

Saying that Music House Complex is responsible for three accidents that occurred on the road in the last nine months is just an attempt by the Commissioner to run away fromn  his shadow. How can a reasonable person say that?

It is not news that the Governor of the state himself said some politicians came to him to demolish the Music House Complex because Ayefele is not in their camp and he also sang against them. We have the Governor on tape, so the Commissioner should look for another excuse.

We know it is the Commissioner that is misinforming the Governor who we hold in a very high esteem. The Commissioner has tried in the past to influence a change in our programmes saying some of our analysts should be replaced.

We want the general public to know that Music House has not in any way contravened any building plan law as the Commissioner has mischievously said.

Music House has been in existence for almost 10 years and we have all necessary documents backing the building from relevant government agencies.

Some questions we need to ask the Commissioner are:
1. Why is the government collecting tenement rate from us when they know we contravened building plan law?
2. Why did the government approved the building plan when they know it will contravene the state housing law?
3. The Commissioner should tell us why the state is just realising that the Music House building is the cause of accident along this road. Perhaps it is also responsible for accidents on Ring road and other parts of the state.
4. If we actually contravened the building law, why did the Commissioner always send us press release for use on behalf of the government.
5. The Commissioner has featured on different programmes on our station and has commended us for our professionalism same with the Governor who heaped praises on us when he visited the station on October 6, 2016.
The Commissioner should look for another excuse and stop chasing shadows.

Signed:

Dr. Yinka Ayefele

Chairman/CEO

Yinka Ayefele Ltd

AGODI 2019 AND HOW PDP WILL WIN THE RACE

AGODI 2019; HOW PDP WILL WIN THE RACE:

The recent developments and particularly the crosscarpeting by political leaders have made the Oyo state politics more interesting; the exit of Pa Ladoja from PDP, the decamping of Prof Adeolu Akande from APC,  the congregating in ADC of those who left Accord because of what they described as Impunity. The ruling party in the state is depleted,  the ADC is still groping in the delicate scenario of who takes what, and ADP of Akande is just about hitting ground.
With the calm and focus in PDP now; without the major crises or threat, PDP appears as the only party on the victory pedestals to Agodi government House in 2019. The leading gubernatorial hopefuls of PDP (Makinde  & Adeseun) are working harmoniously together.  That means there's no more likely defection from the party again because of governorship ticket. That's the major factor for decamping in the state polity and PDP has emerged from that early enough ahead of the other parties.

PARTY ADMINISTRATION: The greatest problem before primary in any political party is who takes responsibilities for what and that must be without biases and compromise but when the candidates have emerged,  the party officers know who to go to and without fear of accusations and petty suspicions. This enhances progress and focus because all party officials left in the party can have common goal until after the elections.  In present Oyo State PDP,  the leaders and the very few governorship aspirants swiftly meet and share responsibilities among themselves.

INFLUX INTO THE PARTY: Since it is inevitable that many political parties will break soon,  due to party internal democracy; because many are not in the political party for love of the party ideology but to pick ticket,  so after they are wounded,  they move enmasse to a party they believe is more stable,  better prospect of winning at state and Federal level and would recognize their inputs and give handsome compensations.  That Party is the PDP, the major opposition party at the nation and with the current best prospect in Oyo State. 

PERSONALITY OF THE GUBER-HOPEFUL: Though I must admit it is presumptuous to say Engr Seyi Makinde is the only candidate without blemish and youthful,  I would still state unequivocally that he is the candidate to beat. He is the reference point of all the campaign by other hopefuls; flaunting credentials,  philanthropic activities,  claiming humility and unstained records. APC particularly is looking in the direction of freshers and those they think can tackle Engr Seyi Makinde in the things that endear him to the public but no one knows how successful they can be in this. 

THE STRUCTURE: PDP in Oyo has the best and strongest structure in Oyo State as of today.  The spread is strong in the 351 wards of Oyo state and in many localities, it is the only viable alternative to the ruling party in the state.  In elections,  party structure is crucial to victory because grassroots mobilization, canvassing and elections management depend on the strength and spread of the structure. 

TODAY'S PDP NOT SAME AS SDP OF 2015: The PDP of today that boasts of Oloye Jumoke Akinjide (former Minister) from Ibadan,  Senator Ayoade Adeseun from Ogbomoso, Senator Hosea Agboola from Oke-Ogun, Hon Ogunwuyi (serving FedRep), Hon Debo Ogundoyin (serving StateHon) , Hon Mulikat Adeola, the former House Leader from Ogbomoso, Engr Femi Babalola, Dr. Saka Balogun, former Chief of Staff,  Chief Bisi Ilaka,  Hon Oluyemi Taiwo, Hon Busari Olayemi, Chief Bayo Lawal,  Chief Jacob Adetoro and many others, can never be likened to that of the erstwhile SDP in Oyo State. They are leaders of great electoral values from all the zones of our State who were not in SDP in 2015. It is important we set the records straight and let the general public know 80% of those who came together for the PDP reconciliation in October, 2017 are still in PDP and working assiduously for gallant victory in 2019.

I can conclude unequivocally that Oyo PDP is on the pedestal of victory and poised to deliver the good people of Oyo State from captivity,  propaganda, maladministration and anti-masses policies. 

LADOJA DEPARTURE AND WHEN ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD

After about six months of threats of dumping PDP and the several  speculations of joining parties like AD, Labour Party, SDP and then ADC; it was relief eventually because our conscience is clear that it is not humanly possible  to keep them in the fold. It was like the case of a poor father that absconded on the news of delivery of quadruplet by the wife; things of joy  became  too overwhelming for the man because  of the attendant responsibilities.  When such happen,  philanthropists and charity organizations often offer supports,  more than the evasive father could have done. 

Engr Seyi Makinde made many frantic efforts to please and persuade our revered father  and leader, High Chief Ladoja but when God is at work,  men sometimes see it differently due to our limited knowledge. The intra party crises ended and the remaining  party faithfuls sighed for relief. 

YOUTHS DETERMINATIONS: Words are not enough  to describe the dynamic  and articulate  mobilization of the teeming  youths of PDP to adjust to the absence of the Accord Migrants; they mobilized all social Media active youths and within 24hrs, there were about 130 of them in attendance at the Molete party  secretarial. Remember, a new State youth has not been  elected yet and the absence was not felt at all. 

THE SECRETARIAT PROGRESSES: There were meetings called by the State Executives and 22 out of the 27 members  were in attendance. That was very  reassuring  because  the propangada  of the Accord migrants says 90% of PDP members have deflected with them to the ADC.  The party secretariat progresses and recently  got a brand new bus to facilitate the secretariat activities. 

THE PARTY LOCAL GOVERNMENT CHAIRMEN: There are 33 local governments in Oyo state and if we assume there are substantive 33 chairmen, though about 2 local governments are disputable; 29 substantive local government chairmen pledge their support for the People's Democratic Party in Our State.

THE PARTY STALWARTS: Many of the stalwarts  that came with High Chief Ladoja into the PDP refuse to leave the party for ADC. Chief Bisi Ilaka, Chief Bayo Lawal, Hon Busari Olayemi etc. Also,  the likes of Prof Adedoja and Oloye Jumoke Akinjide,  former ministers and Hon Debo Ogundoyin remain gidigba in PDP.  Remember, the likes of Mr Dele Adigun, Engr Olaniyan, Hon Adeolu Adeleke, Hon Femi Josiah etc left the Accord party for Baba Ladoja due to impunity  and irreconcilable  differences; they are now in the same party,  the African  Democratic Party (ADC). It looks like season 2 of the crises that separated them earlier.  We can't  ignore the significance of the ADC stalwarts  but the case is that of a team with too many talented players playing  same wing and the coach has no final say on who to feature in crucial  matches.

4. THE PDP ADVANTAGE: Now that the strife is gone and the emotional  siege is over,  Oyo State  PDP is better focused without any major crisis and Engr Seyi Makinde, the leading aspirants can focus on the grassroots  mobilization  without  fear of any godfather taking offense at his moves. Though we are leaving  the doors open for some returnees because when the pilgrimage comes short of expectations,  return  home is imminent, my leader is that magnanimous. Yes ke!

Finally, I just want to liken this long prevented deflection  to a star  player  in Premiership who goes on free transfer to Asia on record transfer fee; it's only the transfer that is news worthy, afterwards, the star player goes into oblivion  and then you hear of retirement  from International  football. He has left PDP (Premiership), where he was a coach to go to Asia or UAE to become team B captain.  At least,  no one dares refer to him as the overall leader of ADC in Oyo state. With all these star players and uncoordinated coaching crew,  the team will be disoriented  very soon even though  the Accord migrants  and my very good friend who lied to me about their leaving will still continue to roll out propaganda  from their mills,  at least  that might give him the post of Publicity secretary in ADC.

Please,  let it be on record that we have  no personal grudge against  those who left with them but we are just musing on the prospect of enjoying  same recognition we accorded them in PDP but they  scornfully  rejected due to what I perceived to be roots of bitterness and prolong pettiness.

NO NEED TO PRAY ADC CRASHES

NO NEED TO PRAY ADC CRASHES:

A friend engaged me recently on the dumping of PDP for ADC by some aggrieved stalwarts and he said we should pray they crash soonest but I said the crash of ADC is too imminent to require spiritual inputs because it's what brought the unequal yokes of APC together in 2014 that have brought these leaders together and they are too old to change their ideologies and attitudes. The construction materials are not good enough for a lasting building:

1. LIES: We are aware that the past 4 months have been rigorous recruitment and enlistments of decampees from PDP with them but despite all the propaganda and erroneous accusations against the person of Engr Seyi Makinde, they could not enlist 25% of PDP officers, many of whom came with them from Accord Party. Saying 90% of PDP has left with them is a lie from the pit of hell. 29 local government party chairmen and 22 out of the 27 state executives are still in PDP, even though many of them came in through Accord. Another lie is 16 out of the 32 members of the house of Assembly; the Engr Akeem Olatunji I know will list their names if he has up to 10 members in the fold. Even the reigning Hon Debo Ogundoyin maintains his party loyalty and sticks with PDP and Engr Seyi Makinde.

2. UNLIKELY BED FELLOWS: Many of the aspirants in ADC actually left Accord Party in anger for APC, then ADC and only to be confronted with the same people they ran from. The issues and attitudes of these stalwarts have not changed and the aspirations are still momentous; so who owns the party? No doubt, the overall leader of the ADC in Oyo State is High Chief Ladoja but what level of influence will he have?

3. GOVERNORSHIP CANDIDATES: There have been at least 4 notable aspirants in ADC before the arrival of the nomadic politicians and one wonders if the likes of Ambassador Arapaja, Engr Olaniyan, Mr Dele Adigun and Dr Kola Balogun who are known to resent unfairness and unleveled playing ground on political field, if they will just fold their arms and allow the Accord pilgrims to sweep them aside again.

4. THE ACCORD TEMPLATE: The Accord pilgrims are too used to taking decisions at Ondo street, Bodija Ibadan that they can't flow in a big party where some decisions and  ratifications must come from the national headquarters. Anything contrary to their pleasure is impunity and unfair; they are just too perfect to be wrong, too righteous to stand injustice; remember they are so pure that the last Accord party state Congress fragmented the party into 3 factions before the aggrieved left Accord but now found themselves with the architect of their unpleasant migration again.

5. ONE SIDED EXCITEMENT: I have monitored the social media and the ADC members and I discovered that it is these Accord migrants that are excited about joining ADC, the real ADC landlords are in cautious optimism; not showing the kind of excitement of our former neighbours because they know those who turn political parties upside down have come.

Whether in PDP or ADC, we still respect and love Pa Ladoja but the excitement of migrating into a new party is too ephemeral and plastic to deceive the enlightened electorate. We were more excited at the reconciliation in PDP last October until the unsavory smoke started oozing out. No doubt, we are not happy at their departure but we would rather have them leave eventually than continue with their threats and backstabbing of the past six months.

Finally, saying or thinking PDP Oyo State is empty because of their departure is delusional and daydreaming; that we have not taken the media battle to their doorsteps doesn't mean we are passive; it's our deliberate last salute to Pa Ladoja, we won't return harm for harm but would rather let the people see through their lies. Despite the news and confirmation of their departure, Engr Seyi Makinde still went ahead to make High Chief Ladoja the chairman of the bursary award ceremony because though party may differ, the respect of Engr Seyi Makinde for the person of Ladoja is unwavering. Even in writing this, I have been careful to ensure I don't offend my leader, Engr Seyi Makinde by being confrontational with Baba. He has never disrespected Baba and he will never do that in any way, irrespective of the malignant words they send to the public. If truly God stands by the truthful, then wherever they go, they will reap what they have down. 

QUOTATION: Bitterness is like drinking rat poison and waiting for the rat to die.  -John Ortberg Jr

Alliance for New Nigeria (ANN) holds Congress

Alliance for New Nigeria (ANN), on Monday 30th july, elected their ward officers in Oyo State. The acting Secetary of the party, Hon Yusuf .A. Moruf and  Chairman Mr Gbade Adeleke Secretary supervised the congress. The INEC, Police and other security agencies observed the congresses in various wards across Oyo State.

The Local and state congresses shall be held on the 2nd and 4th of August respectively. It was hinted that ANN has the backing of Mr Gbenga Olawepo Hashim; who is believed to be the presidential hopeful of the party..

2019 general promises to be interesting and might have major upsets.

IS HON SEGUN OLALEYE A RADICAL OR RASCAL

I read the post credited to Hon Segun Olaleye of Oyo State House of Assembly with open mouth; when you expected a serving legislature to have restraint and maturity but falls your hand. Hon Olaleye is not yet member of PDP, he joined the Idera De camp of our revered high Chief Ladoja and it was made clear that that's where he belongs. No one has any misgiving with that, I belong to OmiTitun too and I have no apologies for that. Making reckless comments about party stalwarts is not radicalism, it is rascality.

One of the things I learnt early in partisan politics is that it is not the same with campus politics, where you attack government and school officials to the cheering of students; the more abusive and reckless you are with the jargons, the more popular you become. Partisan politics require more decorum and maturity from those of us who claim to go through the walls of higher institutions; we must demonstrate the institutions went through us too.

I would have loved to see how Hon Olaleye tried to midwife reconciliation in his abandoned APC but he jumped ship into Idera De; that's OK, but why cause strife in a party you're yet to be reckoned with? There are several ways of demonstrating loyalty to you preferred leader but you need not be unruly or escalate the crises on ground. Calling anyone political paper weight is arrogance and ill manner; if you are heavy weight, why leave APC for another party?

As a parting shot, whether in PDP or any party you end up in, these so called paper weight politicians will still be leaders over you because whether you accept it or not, they have paid their dues and no one is trying to tame or relegate Chief Ladoja as you claimed. I frown at anyone insulting another leader in the name of loyalty because we should rather focus on the bigger goal of unseating the incumbent party, APC that has tormented the people of Oyo State and you have been part of the torment until recently when you cunningly abandoned them.

Please, try and display your loyalty without taking your sacrifice beyond the declared destination. The same way I frown at anyone in my camp insulting anyone in Idera De camp is the same way I get infuriated at disparaging comments from that side too; we either build bridges or hold our peace, not coming to pour fuel into the smoky fire.

Thanks.

HON WASIU ADELEKE SAYS OYO PDP SET TO UNSEAT APC IN 2019

Oyo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday   assured the people of the state that the party is ready and prepared to rescue the state from eight years misrule of the APC in the state.

The party stated this in a communiqué issue after the Inaugural expanded meeting of Oyo state PDP read by the State Secretary of the party, Hon Wasiu Adeleke.

Honourable Adeleke while reading the resolutions of the meeting declared  that PDP is ready and prepared to rescue the state from 8years of misrule.

According to t Oyo state PDP Secretary, as at present, several political parties and prominent individuals in the state are holding strategic meetings on their readiness to join PDP and work for the victory of the party in 2019 general elections.

Honourable Adeleke however assured members of the Executives and local government chairmen to remain calm and discharge their duties according to the dictate of the party constitution and lawful decisions of National working Committee of the party.

The Secretary then  thanked members of the public  that the current Exco as inaugurated by appropriate party officials in Abuja and beamed to the public through mass media remain authentic Exco and advised others to join the team because together we are stronger.

The meeting was attended by the 30 local government Chairmen  of 33 and 18 state Exco members out of 27 lauded PDP leaders across the state for their efforts in uniting the party .

Also in the communique, it was stated that the Local government Executive members in the 33 local government areas of the state will be officially inaugurated by the state Exco very soon.

The meeting was Chaired by the Oyo South Senatorial Chairman, Sir Samuel Adigun Olawuwo who informed the party executive that the state Chairman is unavoidably absent due to his attendance of  National Caucus meeting of the party which invitation came last weekend after the state meeting had already being scheduled.

By: BAYO AKAMO, Ibadan

FACEBOOK AND THE 21ST CENTURY PERSPECTIVE TO BIBLICAL (ANCIENT) GATES

Many people undermine and condemn coming on Facebook and other social media but I smile, particularly when they give religious sentiments as excuse for the condemnation. Though the percentage of those condemning it has reduced considerably but I still need to elucidate the spiritual significance of a social endeavor in the 21st century. Meanwhile, I mention Facebook because it's the most popular of the social media and very relevant to my exposition. I am in essence referring to social media in general.

Ancient biblical gates are not just structures for city defense, they are places of discussion, debates and contentions too. That is the place of "watch" for the city and where the ruler's acceptance or rejection is known. The Bible talks about speaking with the enemies at the gate (Psalms 127:5) and that suggests fierce arguments like those between opposition parties. Though biblical gates are physical structures with geographic locations, they have social presence too and that's the significance of this article. The inventors of social media obviously didn't plan for this but that's what it's doing; online social presence with geographical dileneations. That is, once you register your city and country, that determine the gathering of friends and people and the kind of posts that filter through your wall.

There are some social significance of the Gates; 1. The place of Watch. 2. The place of debates. 3. The place of scheming or political maneuver. 4. Sometimes, it's the place of City authority and culture/religion. I discovered through careful study that these are noticeable on Facebook too and like biblical gates, there are Porters too on Facebook; appointed officers to monitor and report the activities to the authority. Though some people reside on the gates, it is not supposed to be residents, just for the porters. In fact, some gates are so big that residence on it are like mini cities. The significance:

1. THE PLACE OF WATCH: Beyond posting pictures and jokes, those who have foresights can read between the lines, can analyze the activities on Facebook and make very good projections. In fact, if it's the PAGE you create, there's INSIGHT icon for professional analyses of your page. Just going through someone's wall / timeline, you know what the person is going through, priorities in life, religious perspective, political inclination and other social believes. The same way, you know what's the general opinion of the leader, what the people are going through and what it might lead to. I have people I discuss what I analyze and foresee with, whether spiritual, political or just fashion or new product trend.

2. THE PLACE OF DEBATE: Speaking with the enemies at the gate doesn't suggest exchange of pleasantries; some people come online just to transfer the frustration in their lives to someone else. Some come to defend their "food" and source of income, while others just come to display their ignorance and immaturity. Anyhow, fierce arguments take place online and they sometimes get very bad. Battles take place at the gates too and defenders and attackers don't find it easy. I remember defending my Principal and attacking the opposition; It sometimes get very bad, really bad but someone got to do it. Lol.

3. THE PLACE OF SCHEMING & POLITICAL MANEUVERS: By now we all know about this aspect of social media. At biblical gates, Boaz could scheme to marry Ruth without contradicting the customs. Jezebel could raise false witnesses to accuse someone and ensure he's guilty of death; they happened at the gates. Today, same happen online; false accusations, propaganda and malicious publications to slander and kill people socially and politically. We know what the publications are targeted at and for some of us can tackle or diffuse them when we are operating in official capacities. New products are introduced and there are fierce indecent battles between competitors online. Nowadays, politicians are introduced and sold, first online (at the gates) before the full offline activities.

4. THE PLACE OF AUTHORITY: That is, to show who's in charge. When Jonathan was going to win in 2011, it was first established on social media. When he was going to lose in 2015, he lost the social media appeal first; his authority at the "gate" was scorned and rejected. The same thing with Buhari; he won first at the "gate discussions", they subdued the enemies at the gate before they won the elections. I know you can remember all the FE-BUHARI noises. On Facebook, you know who is in charge; who truly bares the authority. The talks/debates at the gates are not trivial as some assume them to be.

5. Finally, " the gate" is also the place where "mere men" and prostitutes live. That's why you have porn posts of Facebook and all sorts of disgusting promo. Nude pictures and immoral posts pervades everywhere because there are vultures online. That's why frequent visits to the gates is for those who know what they are doing or else, you're considered as men of easy virtues; the kinds that were available at Jezebel's disposal.

I tell people; "it depends on what you come (to Facebook) online for and your perspective to it also depends largely on your temperament. You don't have to condemn people who go to the " gate" but what they go to the gates to do and how they do it. Everybody can't be at the gate and profiting at the gates is not for all". Preachers now take their messages to the Facebook and other social media. Leaders appoint socia medial managers (Gate porters) and they visit online often too, inspect and make comments/ give instructions at the gates.

Whether you believe it or not, I just did a little exposition at "the gate of Nigeria" (where i make frequent visits and understand the terrain very well), for those who care to broaden their perspective of Facebook and online activities.

Good morning my friends and have a blessed week.

O J A S O P E  !!

HOW BUHARI STARTED LOSING 2019 ELECTION SINCE 2015

In this democratic dispensation, no President ever won with so much goodwill garnered, I am not talking about vote cast but the mobilization and the noise of the mantra; Sai Baba and FeBuhari. However, it suffice to say that no one ever squandered the good will so soon, due to careless comments, taking the people for granted and a mismanaged public relations.

1. FAILURE TO READ THE HANDOVER REPORTS: Carried away by the ovation and the applause that greeted the swearing in, this government had the effrontery to tell Nigerians that the handover report from the last administration is voluminous and gibberish. To some of us, that was intellectual laziness and lack of vision; no matter how stupid, you would have learnt at least, why the previous administration failed. No wonder this administration has surpassed the last one in failures; repeated same failures and did worse.

2. 100 DAYS PERFORMANCE RENOUNCEMENT: The expectations from this administration were high to the heavens, so high that the positive developments after his electoral victory were attributed to his body language, even though Jonathan was still the President and the swearing not yet done. As soon as the people started asking for 100 days performance check, the APC and presidency denied ever promising Nigerians any achievement within 100 days in office. That was a big error; 100 days in office is so customary with us that you don't have to make promises; people just expect something to point to that you've started work. He failed the first integrity test; that was a good time to say "we are working on the deliverables and sorry it's not coming so fast", not after the public condemnations of their denial. No wonder, 3 years after, they are still pointing accusing fingers at the last administrations.

3. NEPOTISTIC TEAM OF PERSONAL AIDES: The appointments of the personal aides raised a lot of dust but the Presidency didn't seem perturbed by the noise; more appointments kept coming from the same axis. The explanation was; these are the team that can deliver and whom Mr President trusts. However, we are yet to see the exceptional performance from this same team. Then the appointments of the security chiefs followed the same ugly pattern and the appointees remain in office till this moment. Mr President evidently lost many supporters who were insecure with a tribe dominance and tribal sensitive people. It was his responsibility to allay our fears and make us comfortable with his leadership but he doesn't care what we feel. Mr President lost the confidence of the tribal sensitive Nigerians.

4. THE ISLAMIC NATIONS MILITARY ALLIANCE: In December 2015, Mr President joined some other countries to sign the pact for military collaboration among Islamic countries; that officially claims Nigeria is an Islamic country. He did this without recourse to other opinions or organs of government, yes without any explanation why we needed it and why it doesn't make us officially Islamic Nation. That was the arrogance that made some of us leave him; he doesn't care how we feel about sensitive issues. Even if you have the best of motives, as a leader, you must explain to your followers and assuage their fears. Mr President didn't see us as worthy of any explanation. Three years after, we are yet to see how this Alliance has helped us to combat insurgency and terrorism.

5. CRUSHING OF IPOB: The way the militants in the East were crushed generated mixed feelings; while some condemned it, others hailed the alacrity. However, Mr President didn't give any room for dialogue and any audience to the agitation of these people. Crushing they must, crushed they are. The issues that led to the agitation are still there but the leaders of the movements have disappeared into thin air; a situation that further raised suspicion. After the crocodile danced, Nnamdi Kanu has not been seen or heard, whether dead or alive.

6. MR PRESIDENT'S HEALTH: There were suspicions from the beginning that Mr President is getting tired but it was well shielded from the public. The handling of this issue by the presidential aides compounded the waning trust by the public; they kept denying, claiming the President doesn't owe Nigerians explanations to why he's staying so long in UK. When they finally admitted he's sick, they kept telling Nigerians he's ok, yet Mr President never addressed the nation or reassure us that all is well. He only sent messages of condolences to one or two northerners that died during his sojourn in medical tourism. Worse still, there was this Hausa broadcast that was so annoying; for a leader that was accused of nepotism, that was way too much. Remember, we've lost a President to I'll health before and the cabal frustrated the nation before his eventual demise. We expected our current tenants of Aso Villa should have learnt from the past and manage the situation better; alas, it was same way but thank God our President is still alive.

7. THE HUMAN SIDE OF BUHARI: I picked this from the documentary made by his media Aides and that was a big disaster; how can you be taking about the human side of someone that is completely human? You should talk about the human side of animals or inanimate things, not human beings. By that production, they have inadvertently admitted that Mr President is not so human after all. Please quickly reflect and you will see that there are no compassionate gestures from Buhari, whether before or during this Presidency; no prompt visit of sympathy, no empathy and it's as if he just doesn't care at all. Even when our military bombed our internally displaced people, when mass burial became the other of the day in Benue/Taraba and the several cases of Boko Haram victims; just not in his character to show feelings?

You can add your points to the list.

Sure, Buhari Presidency can only continue beyond 2019 "if snakes have internal limbs ".

I rest my case.

Thanks.

Ojasope cares!

SEYI MAKINDE AND THE TIMELY RELIGIOUS LIBERALITY

In Nigeria, tribal and religious bigotry are common and they are the two things that put our people on the edge; resulting into violence and waton waste of lives. Leaders in Nigeria often use religious and tribal/ethnic segregation to score political points or use it to achieve sentimental quota. It has come to a time in Nigeria that leaders and upcoming leaders must do whatever it takes to make people of other religion and tribes comfortable with your leadership style.

In 2011, while I was campaigning for the House of Representatives election under CPC, I had to defend the allegation of religious bigotry levelled against our presidential candidate and I said: "it is important to note you can't condemn anyone for his or her zeal for his God or faith, as long as he doesn't infringe on other people's right to worship". I still hold such opinion and I think that's the standard for leadership; we must not be seen as unduly using offices to favour a religion or tribe at the expense of others.

Engr Oluseyi Makinde amuses me in how he has been able to do this over the years; the consistency, despite criticism and politically motivated missiles have attracted my admiration. Many people have questioned his faith, attacked his liberality and called him hypocrite but he has remained undaunted and resolute in his ways; fully persuaded.

I have had to defend his style before many councils of leaders and brethren; yes, as far as telling them we worshipped in the same Church and that was where we first met, not in politics. He's passionate about his God and he is very godfearing. I can't explain further without sounding like singing the praise of man; however, humanly speaking, I can't fault his zeal and worship of Christ his Lord.

If leaders in this dispensation can consciously take steps like Engr Seyi Makinde does, to make people of other religions comfortable and not be unnecessarily suspicious and on the edge always, we will have a more peaceful society and the elusive Nigerians Dream can be birthed. A situation where our leaders surreptitiously use their office to promote their religion, suppress other religions and encourage (indirectly or directly) killings in the name of religion is not just bad, it's barbaric.

Over the years, nothing has brought so much tension in our polity like religious agitations; the case of Osun State and the crises that resulted from the decision of the Governor to favour his religion at the expense of the other main religion can not be easily forgotten. Also, the attitude or body language of this Presidency has done more to put people of other religions on the edge than any other government I had ever known.

In the atmosphere of peace and no religious tension, there will be unprecedented and commendable development in the state and nation because the populace are not suspecting every move of the leader and they can loyally believe whatever decision taken are in the overall interest of the governorate and the nation at large.

Engr Seyi Makinde, like some other things he has displayed through the OmiTitun concept, this is worthy of commendation and emulation. We can practice our religion/faith as leaders without making others (our subjects) feel discriminated against. Religion or faith is personal between you and God; your decisions that will lead to bloodshed are definitely not godly and that religion is in futility. The expectations rise more, we look forward to a leader, not just Governor, that will set great examples that are worthy of emulation; someone that knows and shows the way to true emancipation of our people from leadership captivity.

Leadership Quote: "Liberality consists less in giving a great deal than in gifts well-timed"
By Jean de la Bruyere, French Philosopher.

Ojasope.