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  • Owo Attack: Gov Akeredolu Weeps At Funeral For Slain Victims

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    “We Failed To Protect These People” He Says

    “You Didn’t Fail, Your Determination To Protect Your People Is Unquestionable” -Bishop Arogundade

    Tears flowed freely on Friday at the funeral mass for the victims of the June 5th, Terror attack at the Saint Francis Catholic Church, Owaluwa, Owo.

    Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, and his wife, Chief Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu attended the funeral mass held at the Mydas Resort and Hotel, Owo.

    Governor Akeredolu, who wept during his speech said the government failed to protect the victims of the terror attack.

    But in a swift response, the Bishop of Ondo Catholic Diocese, Dr. Jude Arogundade declared that Governor Akeredolu has not failed in protecting his people.

    Bishop Arogundade said:”You didn’t fail. You are a strong soldier. Your determination to protect those who voted you into power is unquestionable. This was done by cowards. You have tried your best.”

    Governor Akeredolu stressed that the forces on the other side are evil, assuring that they will not triumph forever.

    “We have failed to defend these people. Not because we have not tried. But because these forces on the other side are evil and they have supports. They will not triumph over us forever.” He said.

    The Governor noted that something must be done in the country, adding that the Security architecture of the nation needs rejigging.

    “When I see the sea of heads that are here it speaks volumes. What has happened to us in Owo in Ondo state is indescribable. A lot of words are used to qualify it. Dastardly, horrendous. But I still believe there are words to use to describe it but I still short of those words.

    “We have just 22 (deceased) in this hall. A few of them have been buried. Because the relatives couldn’t wait till today. But as at the last count, these animals came to the church and murdered 40 people.” Governor Akeredolu said.

    Bishop Arogundade wondered why the people of the country need to beg for state police, despite the endless attack and killings.

    He thanked the Governor for accepting to designate a memorial park in honour of the victims, stressing that those who created the situation that made the incident happened has bloods on their hands.

    Meanwhile, the expansive hall of the Mydas Resort and Hotel was filled to the brim as families of the victims, people of Owo, and other sympathizers thronged the venue of the funeral mass.

    Members of the State House of Assembly, led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. David Bamidele Oleyelogun also attended the service.

    Also, Members of the state executive council, led by the Secretary to the State Government, Princess Oladunni Odu, were present at the  funeral mass.

    Other dignitaries at the funeral mass included: Former Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko; Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Engr. Ade Adetimehin; and Chieftain of the APC , Chief Olusola Oke,SAN,

    The local government chairmen were also led by the chairman, Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALCON) Ondo State chapter, Hon. Augustine Oloruntogbe.

    Richard Olatunde
    Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
    June 17, 2022.

    Olawale Abolade.

  • Hon. Gboluga Ikengboju’s Three Years of Unrivaled Turnaround At The Green Chamber

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    By Oyeniyi Iwakun

    It is three years of unrivaled transformative leadership and vibrant representation at the Green Chamber. Hon. Gboluga Dele Ikengboju has raised the bar with his relentless pursuit for economic and political good of his people in Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency.

    As captured in his first and second anniversary addresses, Hon. Gboluga noted that for the past three years he has continued to roll out new innovations including building of infrastructures; empowerment programmes; provision of grants; educational support facilities; improvement of health care system and many others.

    It is no more news that his first year in office was not only faced with distractions from litigations but also conincided with the convid 19 pandemic thereby necessitated the need to prioritize cash empowerment, provision of relief materials and many others to cushion the negative effect of the pandemic on the economic activity and welfare of his constituents.

    Not minding these challenges, his administration kick started with the appointment of 55 constituents as personal aides with monthly emoluments ranging from N20,000 to N100,000.

    Within the last three years in office, Pharmacist Gboluga facilitated FG’s NIRSAL Microfinance COVID-19 grant of One Million Naira (N1,000,000) each for 6 constituents.

    He successfully secured federal employment for over 16 graduates while others are in the pipeline as he has nominated names for Army, NDLEA, Immigration, Prisons, NSCDC, Fire Services, FRSC et al recruitment.

    The people’s lawmaker, Hon. Gboluga in 2019 financed the training of over 400 constituents with various skills with the motive of securing sponsorship through Central Bank funded assisted programme. In the same year, he succeeded in empowering and training over 100 women with various skills

    Through his relentless efforts, 20 constituents have so far benefited from the FG NDE programme even though about 150 others benefited from the FG Covid-19 rapid response fund.

    Hon. Gboluga facilitated 50 beneficiaries for FG Npower programme among constituents; sponsored 100 beneficiaries for FG N5000 Conditional Cash Transfer for three months.

    In 2020, he provided palliatives to cushion the associated hardships of Covid –19 pandemic during the total lockdown.

    Through this hardworking legislator, some Ikale women, most of whom are aged (over 60s and vulnerable) benefited from the N30,000 each Covid-19 Relief fund for women.

    In tandem with the contemporary demand of our society, Hon. Gboluga, a visioneer organized a strategic training in catering and hospitality businesses through BCDA for some women in Ikaleland.

    For business expansion, he gave out N100,000 (One hundred Thousand Naira) each as empowerment fund for 100 women.

    In 2021, Hon. Gboluga gave out cash ranging from N50,000 to N450,000 to 400 constituents (including youths) as business start-up grants.

    In the same year, he facilitated through the Primary Health Care Development Agency (PHCDA), the delivery and distribution of N100,000,000 (One hundred million naira) worth of medicines and other essential pharmaceutical materials across all the primary Heath Care Facilities in Okitipupa and Irele LGAs.

    He was responsible for the full renovation and upgrade of the Ilutitun Comprehensive health centre in 2020 and subsequently 2022

    The 2021 UTME/JAMB forms were widely distributed to qualified indigent students across the Federal Constituency free of charge owing to his penchant for education

    Hon. Gboluga was responsible for the grading of rural roads across communities in Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency in 2021.

    He facilitated the full construction and furnishing of the Community Hall/Youths Centre, Ilutitun, Okitipupa and Community Hall, Irele; Constructed a block of 3 classrooms at Ogudubuja High School, Okitipupa (fully furnished); A block of 6 classrooms at Comprehensive High School, Ode-Aye (Fully furnished with modern facilities). The foundations he laid and completed within three months.

    Hon. Gboluga Ikengboju is responsible for the establishment of Digital Economy Centre at Comprehensive High School, Ilutitun, Okitipupa LGA.

    In December 2021, he provided cash empowerment where each beneficiary got between N100,000 to N1, 500,000 to 420 constituents for business start up and expansion in December, 2022.

    Just few months ago, he successfully installed Modern Solar Powered Street Lights at Ilutitun and its environs through the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

  • Ekiti Guber Poll: Gov Akeredolu Canvasses Vote For Oyebanji , Urges Ekiti To Align With Govt At The Centre

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    •Joins Tinubu, 13 Other APC Governors For Party’s Mega Rally

    Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum and Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, on Tuesday urged the people of Ekiti State to vote for the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in this Saturday’s governorship election in the state, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji to continue to align with the government at the centre.

    The Governor joined the APC presidential candidate Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and 13 other Governors on the platform of the APC including the Governor of Ekiti state, Dr. Kayode Fayemi to campaign for Oyebanji at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado Ekiti.

    Governor Akeredolu further enjoined the people of Ekiti State to rally support for Oyebanji and the APC ahead of the Saturday, June 18, governorship election in the state.

    At the Campaign were the Governors of Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Borno, Kano, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Kebbi, Kwara, Jigawa, Plateau and Gombe States.

    Governor Akeredolu explained that Ekiti State could not afford to be left out in the renewed dispensation to have APC at the centre of governance in Nigeria beyond the present administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

    He assured the people of Ekiti State of a better deal if Oyebanji is elected as the next Governor.

    The Governor charged the people to return the party to power to continue the good work of the outgoing government of Governor Kayode Fayemi.

    Richard Olatunde
    Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
    June 14, 2022.

    📸 Olawale Abolade & Blessed Michael.

  • Sunshine Stars Secure Home Win Over Tornadoes

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    Sunshine Stars secured a back-to-back home win in the 2021/22 NPFL season, dimming Niger Tornadoes 2-1 at the Ondo State Sports Complex, on matchday 33.

    Leonard Ugochukwu opened scoring with a super goal in the first half, before Ikenna Cooper came on to snatch all points for the Owena Whales after Tornadoes stunning leveller at the stroke of half time.

    Just before the start of Sunday’s game, a minute’s silence was observed for the victims of last week’s church attack in Owo, with our players and officials putting on black armbands to reflect the mourimg mood in Ondo State.

    Following a swing of rhythm in the opening stages, the visitors were the first to threaten but Jonas Emmanuel watched his attempt blaze over after breaching our backline and faced goalkeeper Japhet Opubo in a one-on-one situation. 

    Three minutes later, Leonard Ugochukwu caught Tornadoes defense napping and he wasted no time to power home from the edge and give us the lead. 

    While our boys maintained the driver’s seat, midfielder, Ike Brandon picked up a knock just after the half hour mark of the game, forcing a substitution that saw him replaced by Cooper. 

    The visitors however levelled matters on the stroke of halftime through Jimmy Abdul just before the break.

    The Owena Whales kept up the pressure in the second forty-five minutes and Tornadoes goalie, George Michael was called into action from different range. 

    Breakthrough came again in the 70th minute through Cooper who guided a header home from Habib Yakub’s perfectly-weighted cross, beating George Michael at his nearpost. 

    The rest of the game was down to control and steadiness, which our boys executed perfectly to secure a second consecutive home win and stay 7th on the log with 48 points.

    Our next assignment is the state FA Cup final against Akure City Academy on Tuesday, before travelling to Ilorin for a date with Kwara United on matchday 34.

    POST MATCH PRESSER🎙

    The gaffer, Emmanuel Deutcsh faced the media after the game and his words were transcribed by Sunshine Stars Media.

    “Beautiful game! People have to understand that patient brings success. The boys showed good character in the field; we scored, they equaliser and the boys’ effort made the difference in the second half. Congratulations to all the people of Ondo State, but still not yet for me.

    “The FA Cup games on Tuesday and Thursday made my boys struggled today; they are human beings, playing three times in a week is not easy. I think both the FA Cup finalists have qualified for the national (AITEO Cup).

    “No body go to war to loose; I am going to Kwara with optimism that I can do something there, because a result there will be good for us.”

    Sunshine XI | Opubo; Yakub, Adeyemi, Anioke, Ozor (48′ Awosanmi); Nwaiwu, Brandon (33′ Cooper), Ajagbe; Chilekwu, Nwogbaga (85′ Uzoechi) Ugochukwu 

    Unused Subs | Lawal; Abe, Bello, Olalusi, Pius Ojo, Vincent 

    Chris Okunnuwa 
    Media Head; SSFC
    IG, FB & Twitter: @SunshineFCAkure 
    Youtube: Sunshine Stars TV 

  • June 12: We Must Deepen Our Democratic Values-Akeredolu

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    •Canvasses Restructuring, Says Victims Of Owo Terror Attack Will Never Be Forgotten

    Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, has identified restructuring as the only panacea for the array of challenges confronting the nation, particularly insecurity.

    The Governor in his June 12 message said it is time to deepen the democratic values that the Democracy day represents.

    “Although, we are still mourning, but we will not forget to join our voices to address the fundamental issues that have remained a clog in the wheel of the country’s progress.

    “This day represents a watershed in the history of democracy in our country. It also symbolises a total rebirth of hope and aspiration. It reinforces not just an enduring hope, but resilience in the face of daunting challenges.

    “Today, we must make efforts to ensure that the reason for this day is not defeated. Our focus must shift primarily to the people. We must identify the challenges confronting the nation and be prepared to tackle them for the overall benefit of Nigerians.

    “No doubt, Our country is going through hard times. The issue of insecurity requires our collective efforts. We must renew our commitment to the protection of lives and property. Our country must explore all angles aimed at securing our space against these divisive elements bent on setting the country on the path of conflagration.

    “The people are the major winners of June 12. This day re-echoes the triumph of the people against tyranny and misrule. We must not allow the enemies of the country to continue to attack the psyche of the people and oppress them with impunity. Enough is enough.

    “Since the people are pivotal to our democratic gains, their well-being and security must be prioritised. There is an urgent need for us to rethink our constitution and address issues that hinder our progress.

    “The need for restructuring has stared us in the face for too long. It is time for the Federal government to shed its excesses for the sub-nationals. Security must be devolved to the states. There is no better time for state police than now!

    “We must be sincere in our approach to securing the lives and property of the people. The Chief Executives of states should not be Chief Security officers without the prerequisite for necessary security measures. It is time to rise above mere appellation to being pragmatic.

    “The symbol of the June 12 struggle paid the supreme sacrifice. Our people must not continue to pay the ultimate price in vain. It is devastating . Let us deepen our Democratic values by devolving power to the sub-nationals. It will strengthen governance and make us stronger.

    “As we celebrate this year’s June 12, our mood in Ondo State is melancholic. Our hearts are still hurt. These mindless elements behind the Terror attack at St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo drew a dagger to our hearts. Our flags are still flying at half-mast. We are still in shock. Our loved ones who fell to the bullets of these terrorists will never be forgotten.” The Governor said.

    Governor Akeredolu also called on the people to reflect on the gains of June 12. He added the Democracy Day is not only a deft stroke on the canvass of justice, but a reminder to all on the need to uphold the principle of equity and fairness.

    “We must strive to deepen this path of democratic ethos. Our resolves must resonate with the gains of June 12. This revalidation of hope must be total.” He stressed.

    Signed:
    Richard Olatunde
    Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
    June 12, 2022.

  • Owo Terror Attack: Akeredolu Extends Mourning Period In Ondo

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    Press Statement

    Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has extended the mourning period in the state to Wednesday, June 15th, 2022.

    The extension is sequel to the resolution of the Southwest Governors’ Forum to observe a 3-day mourning period, starting from Monday, 13th June to Wednesday, 15th June, 2022 across all the Southwest states.

    Governor Akeredolu has also directed that all flags in the state must be flown at half-mast for the three days period.

    Recall that the Governor had directed that all flags in the state be flown at half-mast for seven days from Monday, June 6th, to Sunday, June 12th, 2022.

    Governor Akeredolu appreciated his brother Governors in the Southwest for the massive love and cooperation shown since the horrendous attack in Owo.

    Signed:
    Richard Olatunde
    Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
    June 12, 2022.

  • Owo Terror Attack: Ondo Govt Cancels Commemoration Of 2022 June 12 Celebration

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    Press Statement

    The Ondo State Government has canceled this year’s June 12 celebration earlier slated for Sunday 12th June, 2022.

    This is consequent upon the terror attack on
    innocent worshipers at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo, on Sunday 5th June, 2022.

    The cancelation is to enable the entire people of Ondo State mourn their loved ones who lost their lives in the horrific attack.

    Recall that the Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, had directed that all flags in the state be flown at half -mast for seven days in honour of the victims of the terror attack.

    Signed:
    Richard Olatunde
    Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
    June 11, 2022.

  • Owo Terror Attack Was A Message To Us – Soyinka

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    •A dagger Has Been Drawn To Our Hearts-Gov Akeredolu

    Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,SAN, on Friday received Nobel laureate and renowned playwright, Prof. Wole Soyinka in his office, Alagbaka, Akure.

    Prof. Soyinka was at the Governor’s office on a condolence visit over the terror attack in Owo, last Sunday.

    He described the terror attack as a message, adding that “We are dealing with people who are obsessed with domination; it is in their blood, it is in their Creed, their psyche that they need to dominate.”

    The Nobel laureate noted that the attack was on Governor Akeredolu who has been showing leadership in terms of internal liberation.

    “He was targeted and there is no question about that. It was not an accident, and it is passing a massage to the rest of us. That is why I’m here. I want the Governor to know that we have received the message. We understand it and we came to sympathize with him that he was selected as a medium of that message.

    “So, the answer we must give to the message we all received is that we are not slaves. Here, on our own soil, having had the experience of century of disdain, contempt about us as black poeple. Again some characters come along calling themselves whatever, ISWAP, Boko Haram. So, all those groups including those who are just opportunists – the herdsmen, they are making a mistake. I want the Governor to realize they are making a mistake.

    “I have been on this issue for quite some times. This invasion has been on and these herdsmen are all over the forests. At a time we thought it was Boko Haram, we didn’t know that Fulani herdsmen were capitalising on the fundamentalist insurgency and brutality.

    “And that is why we see a nexus of operation between ISWAP, Boko Haram and Fulani herdsmen.They work singularly, individually and they work collectively. I Know Ondo State has always been at the forefront of awareness.” Prof. Soyinka said.

    Governor Akeredolu appreciated the Nobel laureate
    for the condolence visit, saying that the state will remain hugely indebted to him.

    “It is a cause that he has dedicated his life to, and I thank God for his life. The state wants to appreciate you for finding time to come at this hours of grieve.

    “This is like a dagger drawn to our heart, and it is an assault on our psyche. The psyche of those of us in the South-West and Western Region.

    “I think they think they can create some fears in us but they made a mistake because this will make us more fierce in our condemnation of their actions. And we are not hiding it.” Governor Akeredolu said.

    Richard Olatunde
    Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
    June 10, 2022.

  • Breaking: Killers of Fasoranti’s daughter to die by hanging

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    An Ondo State High Court sitting in Akure on Friday sentenced three out of four persons that killed Olufunke Olakunri, daughter of Afenifere Leader, Reuben Fasoranti to death by hanging.


    Mohammed Shehu Usman, Osagie Lawal, and Adamu Adamu were sentenced to death for the 2019 murder of Mrs Olakunrin, daughter of the leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural body, Afenifere, Reuben Fasoranti, three years after the murder.  

    However, the fourth suspect, Mr Abubakar, who was on trial for aiding and abetting the crime, was discharged and acquitted by the Trial Judge, Justice William Olamide

    They were trialled at the court on eight counts bordering on conspiracy, kidnapping, murder, armed robbery, unlawful possession of firearms and aiding and abetting.

    Justice Williams Olamide, who delivered the judgement, on Friday morning, found the trio guilty after they conspired together to commit the armed robbery that led to the murder of Mrs Olakunrin.  

    Justice Olamide gave his final judgement, which spanned more than two hours, after taking appearances of the prosecution counsel, Charles Titiloye, and the defence counsel, Obafemi Bawa. 

    The judge held that the prosecution proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt. The judge had reserved today for the judgement after listening to submissions and adopted the final written addresses from the prosecution and the defence counsel. 

    The judgement came three years after the killing and trials of the arrested suspects by the government.

    Mrs Olakunrin was travelling from Akure to Lagos after visiting her father when the gunmen struck and killed her on the Ore federal highway on July 12, 2019. 

    Her gruesome death had attracted a wide range of condemnation from Nigerians, including political and social groups. 

    Olufunke Olakuri, daughter of Afenifere Leader, Reuben Fasoranti was shot dead in June 2019 by gunmen in Ore, Odigbo Local Government Area of Ondo State.

    She was buried a few weeks after her gruesome murder.

  • Owo Massacre : Adegbonmire Condoles With Victims

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    By : Martins Fasusi

    The candidate of The All Progressives Congress,APC in Ondo Central Senatorial District, Adeniyi Adegbonmire has condoled with the Victims and families of those who lost their lives to the gruesome murder that took place at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo to unknown gunmen during Sunday Service.

    According to the statement issued by the Adeniyi Adegbonmire campaign organization, the incoming senator expressed deep shock over the incident.

    In his words” it is with deep sorrow that I write to express my condolences to His Excellency, the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, the people of Ondo State, particularly the people of Owo, the Christian family, particularly the Catholic Church, all parishioners of St Francis Catholic Church, Owo, and all those who lost loved ones during the terrorist attack that took place Sunday 5th day of June, 2022.

    I have been greatly disturbed since I heard the news of the unfortunate attack .

    This attack, which is extremely sad and worrisome, and happened on pentecost Sunday, an extremely important day in Christianity as it signifies the birth of Christianity and the importance of the holy spirit in the life of all Christians, is extremely concerning.

    I must state that no day is appropriate or appointed for such a dastardly act of pure terrorism”.

    Adegbonmire stressed that he has no doubt that the perpetrators of the dastardly act will be apprehended and brought to book.

    He commended the State Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN for his swiftness in responding to the attack..

    The incoming senator however condemned in the strongest terms the act of terrorism in the country and pray that such act will soon become a thing of the past..

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