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  • ODIRS presents N42m land use charge, radio/TV licence revenues to Local Govts in Ondo

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    By Our Correspondent

    Ondo State Internal Revenue Service, (ODIRS) has presented a cheque of twenty million, four hundred and forty Five thousand, seven hundred and eighty four naira (20,445,784.00) land use charge and twenty million, one hundred thousand (22,100,000.00)

    It was learnt that the cheque is meant for radio and television licence revenue to the 18 local government chairmen.

    The cheques were presented on Thursday at the March edition of Joint State Revenue Committee meeting (JSRC) held at the ODIRS hall, Alagbaka, Akure.

    The Acting Chairman of ODIRS, Mr Bayo Rojugbokan noted that the JSRC is a meeting between the Ondo State Internal Revenue Service and the 18 Local Government Chairmen in the state with the purpose of harmonizing policies and guidelines to ensure that there is a total plan for the collection of internally generated revenue in the state.

    “We are progressing and we are establishing a cooperative tendency towards agile collection in Ondo State. Compared to the previous one, this is better and I know that the Local Government chairmen are happy to collect this cheque because it’s more than what they collected before.

    “We will continue to appeal to them. We’re going to display a lot of integrity and sincerity in this effort to make sure that everybody, because I told them earlier in the morning that the Local Government Chairmen alone may not be able to collect all the available revenues within their Local Government.

    “So we need this cooperation between the Local Government and the Internal Revenue Service so that we can be able to comb the nooks and crannies of Ondo State to be able to assess our IGRs for collection”.

    Speaking on the newly launched platform for revenue collection, Rojugbokan opined that tax collection will be easy for collection.

    “Tax must be easy for collection anyway and so I-Ondo platform will enable individuals to pay tax as conveniently as possible.

    “Everybody can now make their payment without a third party, you do your payment personally and that is more comforting.

    “We continue to intensify improvement on the platform I-Ondo to ensure that life is easier for the people of Ondo State.

    “This platform will stop leakages, maybe not 100% but it will reduce to the barest minimum issues of leakages in revenue collection. People will not be able to divert the money because you are paying directly to a direct source and a direct destination”, he concluded.

    A consultant, Dr Thomson Aiyegunle, delivered an insightful talk on the importance of enhancing budget preparation, financial control, and revenue generation at the local government level.

    He emphasised that, with local governments now receiving direct allocations from the federal government, it has become increasingly important for officials to develop the necessary skills to prepare budgets effectively and manage resources efficiently.

    “While these allocations provide financial support, internally generated revenue (IGR) must also be strengthened to ensure sustainable development.

    “As direct accounting officers, local government officials must continuously enrich their knowledge in financial control and monitoring. Implementing transparent and accountable financial practices is crucial for ensuring effective and efficient service delivery to the people.

    “By adopting best practices in budgeting and revenue generation, local governments can maximise their financial resources, meet the growing needs of their communities, and drive socioeconomic development at the grassroots level”,he said.

    Reacting, Akure South Local Government Chairman, Dr. Gbenga Fasua, who doubles as the ALGON chairman, Ondo State applauded the management of ODIRS for all they have been doing.

    “There is an irrational arrangement, which is 70-30. And today we got for the radio and television over 20 million, as well as the land use charge is over 20 million too. For that, for the entire 18 local governments to be shared.

    “Ordinarily, this is the pattern we make, getting to the office, but with the report, we feel it’s commendable, and we appreciate ODIRS for what they are doing.

    “Indeed, when it comes to internally generated revenue, it is one couch of a support system to make the local government to be financially stable. Of course, to meet the demands of the people.

    “For us, we’re not just starting. We understand this very carefully. And of course, we are doing it within the confines of law. That all our generation’s areas to generate IGR are well known. The one that is, we have a state, local government that are being generated is the one you see”.

    He assured the people of the State that internally generated revenue in their time as local government chairmen will increase.

    “The agro-asset platform, we’re deploying this e-collection to make it better. So that we want to, every methodology that we can use to check leakages is what you put in place.

    And then we will use this medium to sensitize our people to be informed that dues, taxes and rates made for the local government should be paid appropriately”.

  • We are making frantic efforts for Sunshine Stars to maintain elite league status – Ologunloluwa

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    The 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) program is only just a few weeks from over; for Sunshine Stars, it has been a disappointing season as a result of indifferent results which have seen them languish in relegation waters.

    However, the club’s president Bamidele Ologunloluwa has given assurance that Sunshine Stars will maintain their elite league status appealing to supporters both home and abroad to remain calm and keep supporting the team.

    He sought more support from stakeholders for Sunshine Stars to survive the present challenges.

    “We still have seven matches to play in the League and with sincerity of purpose we can still end the football season above the red zone.”

    According to him, “this is just a trying time for the team and as managers we are not relenting in our players and officials’ welfare whose salaries and bonuses are paid as an when due.

    “This is not the time for name callings, blame games, rather it is a period that all and sundry need to come together to lift our heritage, Sunshine Stars to make sure they do not go down.”

    On Wednesday in Ijebu-Ode, Sunshine Stars who were pegged to a goalless draw by Heartland of Owerri have garnered 34 points from 31 matches.

    Sunshine Stars
    Media Manager
    Femi Atolagbe

  • Ondo students protest insecurity, demand government action

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    Students from various tertiary institutions in Ondo State took to the streets of Akure on Thursday to protest the rising insecurity across the state, particularly the increasing cases of kidnapping.

    The demonstration, organized by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Committee, Ondo Axis, saw students marching through major roads carrying placards with inscriptions demanding urgent government intervention.

    The protesters expressed frustration over the worsening security situation, calling on authorities to take decisive action to protect students, especially those undergoing the Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) in remote locations.

    The students carried placards with various demands, including: Immediate implementation of student-centered policies, Renovation and equipping of institutional facilities, construction and rehabilitation of hostels.

    Others are ; Fulfillment of the government’s promise to procure student buses, support for student entrepreneurship and skill acquisition programs, justice for the recent attack on NANS members in Ogbese, and the inclusion of student representatives in education policy-making.

    Addressing the protest, a NANS representative decried the lack of action from the government:
    “The attack on our members at Ogbese remains unaddressed. We will not stand idly while students are left vulnerable and neglected. The government must act now before this issue escalates further.”

    The students also warned that failure to meet their demands could lead to further demonstrations, stressing that they would not relent until concrete measures are taken.

    As pressure mounts, all eyes are now on the government and security agencies to respond to the students’ demands and restore confidence in the state’s security system.

  • FG declares Monday, March 31, Tuesday, April 1, public holidays for Eid-el-Fitr

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    The Federal Government has declared Monday, March 31, and Tuesday, April 1, 2025, as public holidays to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr.

    The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani.

    Tunji-Ojo congratulated Muslims on the successful completion of Ramadan, urging them to uphold values such as self-discipline, compassion, generosity, and peace. He also emphasized the importance of love, forgiveness, and solidarity in fostering a harmonious society.

    Additionally, the minister encouraged Nigerians to use the festive period to pray for peace, stability, and prosperity in the nation. He expressed hope that Eid-el-Fitr would promote unity and cooperation across religious and ethnic divides.

    He further advised citizens to celebrate responsibly while remembering the less privileged through acts of kindness and charity, in line with the spirit of Ramadan and Eid.

    On behalf of the Federal Government, Tunji-Ojo extended warm Eid Mubarak wishes to all Muslim faithful, praying for a season filled with happiness, success, and fulfillment.

  • Ondo Youths hold candlelight procession for Late Dayo Olorunfemi Sam Jnr

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    A wave of emotions swept through the streets of Ondo Kingdom as youths, loved ones, and well-wishers gathered for a solemn candlelight procession in honor of the late Dayo Olorunfemi Sam Jnr. The night sky was illuminated by flickering candle flames, each one symbolizing the enduring spirit of a young man who left an indelible mark on his community.

    Dayo Olorunfemi Sam Jnr was more than just a name; he was a force for change. A vibrant and promising young man, he dedicated his life to media advocacy and social justice, using his platform to champion fairness, truth, and the development of Ondo State. His unwavering commitment to these causes earned him widespread admiration, particularly among the youth, who saw in him a beacon of hope for a better future.

    Tragically, in November 2024, Dayo was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, a battle he fought courageously until his passing. His death has left a profound void, not only in the hearts of those who knew him personally but also in the broader Ondo community, where his impact was deeply felt.

    As the candlelight procession moved through the streets, beginning at Ife Garage, passing through Idinshin, and ending at Odotu Roundabout, silent tears flowed, and heartfelt prayers were whispered in his honor. It was more than a farewell; it was a testament to the powerful legacy he left behind, a reminder that his dreams and aspirations will continue to inspire those who walked alongside him.

    Among those who paid tribute was Mr. Elijah Akinlabi, representing the Saint Joseph College (SJC) 2002 Alumni, who described Dayo as a passionate, intelligent, and engaging personality, well-known for his thought-provoking media engagements on politics and development in Ondo State. He recalled Dayo’s warmth, friendliness, and unwavering commitment to positive change.

    “His legacy is undeniable, and while death is inevitable, we pray for sound health to enjoy the fruits of our labor. May God grant him eternal rest,” he prayed.

    For the youth, friends, and loved ones left behind, this was not just a goodbye, it was a promise to keep his vision alive. Though Dayo Olorunfemi Sam Jnr is no longer physically present, his light will continue to shine in the hearts of those he touched and the causes he fought for.

    May his soul rest in peace.

  • Hon. Ogunmoyero applauds Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa for prioritizing Education in Ondo State

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    A stakeholder in Ondo East, Hon. John Ogunmoyero, has commended Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering commitment to education, as demonstrated by the recent recruitment of teachers across the state.

    Last week, Governor Aiyedatiwa approved the appointment of teachers through the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board (ODSUBEB) to fill critical vacancies in public primary schools across the state.

    It would be recalled that the state government had earlier approved the employment of over a thousand teachers for public secondary schools as well.

    Hon. Ogunmoyero, a philanthropist from Ondo East, described this initiative as a significant step toward improving the quality of education and addressing the shortage of teachers in public schools. He emphasized that education remains the foundation for sustainable development, and the governor’s proactive approach reflects a genuine commitment to the future of Ondo State’s youth.

    “This recruitment drive is a bold and commendable move that will enhance learning outcomes and strengthen our education sector. Investing in teachers is investing in the future of our children, and I wholeheartedly applaud Governor Aiyedatiwa for making education a priority,” he said.

    He further urged the people of Ondo East and Ondo State as a whole to support Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration in order to enjoy more dividends of democracy.

    “When someone has done well, we should acknowledge and appreciate their efforts,” he noted.

  • Southwest Insecurity Crisis: Afenifere Youth Leader Urges President Tinubu to Declare State of Emergency

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    In a passionate open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, President of the Afenifere National Youth Council, has called for urgent federal intervention to address the growing insecurity and kidnapping crisis in the Southwest, particularly in Ondo State.

    Ojajuni, himself a victim of kidnapping, recounted his harrowing twelve-day ordeal in captivity, during which he suffered gunshot wounds and endured severe physical and psychological trauma. He described how criminal elements have turned the region’s forests into ransom negotiation hubs, while highways, especially the Lagos-Abuja expressway, have become dangerous routes for travelers.

    Highlighting the escalating violence, he urged President Tinubu to declare a state of emergency on insecurity in the Southwest and take immediate action, including:

    Deploying a special military operation to reclaim forests from kidnappers.

    Strengthening border security to curb the influx of criminal elements.

    Equipping and empowering local security outfits, such as Amotekun.

    Scrutinizing ransom payment networks, including Bureau de Change operators.

    Increasing security surveillance, particularly in Lagos and Ondo States.

    Engaging youth associations and mandating town hall meetings with political office holders.

    Urging Southwest Governors to collaborate on security and host a Youth Security Summit.

    Ojajuni emphasized that many kidnappers have local ties, speaking Yoruba fluently and using advanced ICT skills to track victims. He stressed that without decisive federal action, the crisis would continue to escalate, endangering more lives.

    “The level of insecurity in the Southwest has gone beyond a crisis, it is a full-blown war against innocent Nigerians,” Ojajuni warned. “Today, it is Ojajuni; tomorrow, it could be anyone.”

    He called on President Tinubu to act swiftly, stating that the people of Ondo State and the entire Southwest are looking to the federal government for urgent intervention.

  • Truck claims lives on Abuja – Karu bridge

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    A truck carrying fertiliser on Thursday crashed at the Karu Bridge, along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway, claiming two lives.

    It was gathered that the incident occurred at about 3:54pm on Thursday, involving a collision between the truck, a Hijet, and a dump truck.

    The accident occurred barely 24 hours after a CNG-laden tanker crashed into multiple vehicles, killing at least 10 persons after it exploded.

    Confirming the latest incident, the Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Engr. Jaji O. Abdulganiyu, who was at the scene, said two lives were lost in the accident.

    “During an inspection of the site, the team witnessed another accident firsthand—a trailer carrying fertilizer lost its brakes, overturning and blocking the highway. Sadly, two lives were lost on the spot, and several vehicles sustained damage.

    “As the team alerted the nearest fire station for immediate response, another looming danger was identified—a fuel-laden tanker had begun spilling its contents amid other vehicles under the scorching sun. Acting swiftly, Federal Fire Service personnel applied foam compound to contain the spill and prevent a potential disaster,” the agency said in a statement.

    Roving pen

  • Police arrest husband for allegedly stabbing wife to death during argument

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    Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command has arrested one Peter Dike, for allegedly killing his wife at their home in the Oke-Ira Ilogbo Eremi Community, Marogbo.

    The police command revealed on Thursday that the suspect allegedly stabbed his wife to death with a kitchen knife during a heated argument that escalated into a violent fight at their apartment on Wednesday.

    The Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed that detectives from the Morogbo Division were alerted and promptly arrived at the scene.

    Hundeyin stated, “After a team of detectives who were on surveillance township monitoring patrol in the area got the information, they moved in swiftly and arrested the suspect. One kitchen knife stained with blood was recovered from him. He was brought down to the station and interrogated accordingly.

    “He confessed to the crime. The corpse was deposited at the morgue of the General Hospital, Badagry. The case will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti Yaba.”

    Roving pen

  • “We Don’t Have To Wait For Lent Before Fasting” – Cleric

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    A cleric, Pastor (Mrs.) Florence O. Ilemobade of The Great God Divine Presence Church, Akure, has advised Christians not to wait for the Lenten season before engaging in fasting and prayer.

    Pastor Ilemobade made this statement while speaking on the significance of Lent as the 40-day observance reached its 12th day.

    “As children of God, we should stop treating fasting and prayer as mere religious rituals. Instead, they should be a time of complete surrender, a period of separation from worldly distractions, and an opportunity to reflect, repent, and draw closer to God,” she said, citing Matthew 4:1-11 and Luke 22:39-46 as biblical references.

    She described Lent as a period of fasting and prayer in preparation for the remembrance of Jesus Christ’s death and resurrection.

    “Lent is a 40-day period of spiritual preparation for Easter, the day we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It is a time for Christians to reflect on their faith, repent of their sins, and renew their commitment to following Christ,” she explained.

    According to her, Lent offers a unique opportunity for self-examination, repentance, and seeking God’s forgiveness. Through prayer, fasting, and charitable giving, believers can strengthen their relationship with God and grow in faith.

    Pastor Ilemobade also emphasized the Three Pillars of Lent: which includes , Prayer -Spending more time seeking God’s guidance, forgiveness, and strength. Fasting-Giving up something enjoyable, such as a favorite food or activity, to focus on spiritual growth. And Charitable Giving -Showing kindness and generosity to those in need.

    “I pray that the purpose of Lent will be fulfilled in our lives, in Jesus’ name,” she concluded.

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