LG TENURE ELONGATION SUIT:
OSUN APC LAWYERS ABSENT FROM COURT PROCEEDINGS

— CASE ADJOURNS TO 4TH MARCH, 2026

Osun State Government has described as unfortunate the way and manner the Osun State chapter of APC is unduly and deliberately carrying out actions and inactions that have been causing continued logjam in the state local government imbroglio.

This is contained in a press statement issued by the Commissioner for information and public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi in an apparent reaction to the suit for tenure elongation filed by the APC which came up for hearing today at the Federal High Court, Osogbo.

All their lawyers comprising three Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) were conspicuously absent in court when the matter came up for hearing today.

It would be recalled that the much embattled Osun State chapter of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in order to perpetrate their frauds under the guise of self-awarded tenure, approached the Federal High court Osogbo, for tenure elongation. Instead of waiting for the outcome of the case filed, they are still occupying our Council Secretariats, claiming that they have right to continue to occupy the local Government Secretariats because they have filed a suit for tenure elongation at the FHC, Osogbo.

However, when the case came up for hearing today before the Federal High Court, none of the ten lawyers they listed in their court processes were in court. Alimi’s reaction to today’s court proceedings read in part ;

“I wish to unequivocally restate for the umpteenth time, that, it is quite clear that the election conducted on 15th October, 2022 by the then APC-led government in Osun state under the leadership of Mr Adegboyega Oyetola was not only illegal but also against the Electoral Act. This development, was the reason why the Federal High Court, Osogbo, was approached to get it nullified and same was outrightly nullified.

“However, in order to continue to carry on with their known mischiefs to lay claim to an illegal power, they ( APC) have been twisting the judgments of February 10, 2025 and June 13, 2025 claiming that they have been reinstated. However, reverse is clearly the case in the eyes of the law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as the court already nullified their purported election.

“It is in the public domain, that, in order to carry on with their illegality, they claimed they filed a case at the Federal High Court in Osogbo for tenure elongation but today they ran away from the same case. They even mischievously claim that they are not asking for tenure elongation but tenure determination. This is clearly a bizarre!

“We want the public to know that when they (APC) filed the case, they were supposed to have mobilised the bailiff of the court to go and serve the court processes but deliberately they to do so. Instead, it was the counsel to Osun state Government who mobilized the bailiff to Abuja to go and serve all the processes on the remaining defendants. Who is then guilty of undue delay?

“When the matter came up for hearing today, Wednesday ,28th day of Jan 2026, despite the fact that they listed 10 lawyers, 3 of whom are Senior Advocates of Nigeria ( SAN), it was a thing of shock and disappointment today due to their own way of causing delay for the case, all their lawyers feigned different excuses in a letter to the court that they all had cases and that none of them could get chance to appear before the court of law for the hearing of the long awaited matter which they are touting as the basis of their illegal stay in the council secretariats. The case consequently got adjourned to the 4th day of March, 2026.

“We are putting this before the public to further bring to the fore the usual shenanigans and antics of the APC in Osun State led by Alh Gboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy so that the local governments imbroglio being experienced in the state for almost one year now would not be resolved once and for all, hence their resort to delay tactics.

“It is quite unfortunate that the APC that filed a suit in the first instance for tenure elongation is still the same APC that abandoned the case so that the delay will aid them to continue to unleash havoc and brigandage in Osun Local Governments. They falsely accused Governor Adeleke of filing frivolous cases to frustrate them when in actual fact, they are the saboteurs. They claimed local government funds are not being withheld by the Federal Government but can’t explain where the funds are and how they have been spending same. This further confirms their desperate plan to divert public funds to their private political pockets, relying on federal powers and influence of Alh. Gboyega Oyetola”.

“We are therefore using this medium to call on all stakeholders in Osun, Nigeria and the world at large to come to the rescue of the government and good people of Osun State so as to let APC and their cohorts to stop forthwith all these acts of lawlessness, which at best, negates the whole essence of democracy with which they are illegally laying claim to the leadership of the third tier of government in a state known for peace and tranquility ” Ended the statement.

E- Signed:
Oluomo Kolapo Alimi
Hon.Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment

OSUN LG FUNDS: STOP USING FEDERAL COVER FOR LAWLESSNESS – ADELEKE RESPONDS TO OYETOLA

The Osun State Government has noted the intemperate, misleading and inflammatory statement credited to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, over the ongoing illegal withholding of local government funds due to Osun State and the siege on council secretariats.

Contrary to the desperate attempt to reframe facts, the crisis over Osun local governments did not arise from propaganda, incompetence or disregard for the judiciary by Governor Ademola Adeleke. It arose from a brazen effort by unelected individuals, backed by partisan federal actors, to forcefully occupy local government secretariats after their sack by courts of law.

The claim that local government chairmen were “reinstated” and are lawfully in office is a gross distortion. The court judgments are public documents for anyone to read. There was no reinstatement. Even if there was a reinstatement, tenure is a matter of law, not sentiment. Once tenure expires, no court order can resurrect it. Going to court does not confer the right to remain in office. This elementary principle of constitutional democracy appears lost on Oyetola and all those now hiding behind selective judicial references.

Equally troubling is the attempt to weaponise the July 11, 2024 Supreme Court judgment on local government autonomy. That landmark decision was meant to free councils from state executive strangulation, not to legitimise illegal tenure elongation, self-help or the continued occupation of office without a fresh electoral mandate.

Autonomy does not translate to anarchy.
More alarming is the growing perception of federal complicity. The continued freezing of Osun local government funds, despite clear legal advice and moral obligation, raises serious questions about political interference at the highest levels. This is no longer an Osun issue; it is a test case for Nigeria’s federalism, constitutional order and the credibility of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to the rule of law.

President Tinubu must urgently call Minister Adegboyega Oyetola to order.
He cannot continue to use federal power to punish a state for partisan reasons, nor should federal institutions be dragged into local political vendettas. Nigeria is not a fiefdom, and Osun State is not a conquered territory.

The Osun State Government remains committed to the rule of law, peaceful governance and the protection of grassroots democracy. What it will not accept is federal intimidation, historical revisionism or the conversion of expired mandates into perpetual entitlements.

Signed:
Oluomo Kolapo Alimi,
Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment

GOVERNOR ADELEKE REITERATES DELIVERY OF DEMOCRACY DIVIDENDS ACROSS OSUN STATE AS ODA MARKS 30TH ANNIVERSARY

The Osun State Governor, His Excellency, Sen. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke has reiterated his selfless commitment to deliver democracy dividends across all the sectors of the economy, to boost people’s welfare and develop the State.

The Governor made this known at the Osun Development Association (ODA)’s 30th anniversary gala, held at the Antonia Hall, 11B Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, Ikoyi Lagos on Sunday 25th January, 2026, where he was the special guest of honour.

Represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Dr. Bunmi Jenyo, the Governor was grateful to ODA for acknowledging his administration’s unwavering commitment to the progress of Osun State.

Thirty years ago in 1995, ODA was founded by committed patriots who believed deeply that the development of Osun State must be driven by sound ideas, integrity, and a shared sense of responsibility. These visionaries were also part of the historic struggle that led to the creation of Osun State in 1991.

As a recipient of the ODA State Leadership Appreciation Award, Governor Adeleke who appreciated the ODA’s passion for the growth of the State, reflected proudly his administration’s milestones, since he took the oath of office on 27th November 2022.

According to the Governor, “the theme for this year’s Osun Development Association’s 30th Anniversary Gala, ‘building Osun’s future together – 30 years of impact, innovation and inclusion’ resonates deeply with our administration’s vision for the State’s development. It highlights the importance of collective effort and strategic planning in driving progress”.

The Governor who acknowledged his sterling performance and tangible results in his five-point agenda namely welfare, economic growth, home-grown infrastructure, people-focused policies and agro-based industrialisation also itemized his achievements in the key sectors of the economy, such as health, education, worker’s welfare and infrastructure.

According to Governor Adeleke, “initiatives in Entrepreneurship, Commerce & Industry, Digital Economy, Tourism and Cooperatives are igniting sustainable prosperity”.

“In the Commerce and Industry Sector, we have unlocked new opportunities. The 2024 Osun Industrial Investment Summit and the 2025 Osun State Dinner and Industrial Investment Roundtable drew local and global investors, spotlighting our State’s vast potential. We have also revitalised the Living Spring Free Trade Zone in Ede, creating a dynamic hub for industrial expansion”.

“As a fall out of the 2024 Osun Industrial Investment Summit and the recently concluded 2025 Osun State Dinner and Industrial Investment Roundtable, several investors have indicated interest in establishing industries in the Free Trade Zone and I have already approved allocation of industrial plots to some investors”.

“This project is expected to provide over 500,000 direct and indirect jobs for our people.The Osun State Government has also improved on the Ease of Doing Business in the State through provision of incentives, interventions and enabling investment environment to boost economic and industrial activities. We are therefore laying a solid foundation and attracting strategic investments in different sectors of our economy”.

“This is as a result of our bold vision to reposition Osun as a centre of commercial, industrial, and economic activities in Southwest Nigeria. Osun State is now recognised as one of the most Investment-friendly States in Nigeria”.

“As we celebrate three decades of ODA’s contributions to Osun’s socio-economic growth, we are reminded of the power of partnership and inclusivity in shaping our State’s future”.

“Let us continue working together to harness our resources, promote innovation, and build a brighter future for all Osun citizens.Together, we will forge ahead, steadfast in our mandate to serve the people and build a thriving Osun State”.

While speaking, the ODA Chairman, Dr. Segun Aina OFR, who described the 30th anniversary as a renewed call to impact, said his association “deeply values it’s constructive relationships with successive military and civilian administrations since the creation of Osun State. These partnerships have enabled us to contribute meaningfully to the State’s development through shared purpose and mutual commitment”.

Dr. Aina also highlighted the activities marking the 30th anniversary of ODA. According to him, “the December 4th, 2025 symposium, which examined the role of subnational entities in nation building, the 30th anniversary gala on Sunday January 25th, 2026 where present and past State governors, leaders, eminent members and young achievers were honoured and 27 new members inducted – bringing total membership close to 160; and finally, on Thursday January 29th, 2026, the groundbreaking of the proposed ODA house in GRA Osogbo, alongside the launch of the Teacher Transformation and Empowerment Initiative, aimed at strengthening education in Osun State. Together, these initiatives reaffirm ODA’s role as a bridge between ideas and impact, working collaboratively with government and stakeholders”.

“Our greatest strength lies in our diverse and distinguished membership – drawn from all sectors and the Diaspora. As we embark on the next 30 years, we recommit ourselves to sustainable development, youth empowerment, industrialisation, peacebuilding and a prosperous future for Osun State”, he said.

The ODA 30th anniversary Gala was marked by different categories of awards among which State leadership awards were given to the past leaders of Osun State. The first executive Governor of the State, Late Sen. Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke was also given a posthumous award.

The dignitaries at the occasion include the event Chairperson, Engr. Mrs Joanah Maduka, MFR, the keynote Speaker, Mr. Niyi Yusuf, former Osun Military administrators, Col. (Rtd) Chief Theophilus Oladapo Bamigboye, Navy Captain Anthony Udofia (Rtd), among others.

TEXT OF A STATE BROADCAST BY THE GOVERNOR OF OSUN STATE, HIS EXCELLENCY, SENATOR NURUDEEN ADEMOLA ADELEKE, ON THE ILLEGAL OCCUPATION OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT SECRETARIATS AND THE DEFENCE OF DEMOCRATIC ORDER IN OSUN STATE.

My dear people of Osun State, the urgent necessity to restore lawful, peaceful, and effective governance at the grassroots in our state compels me to speak to you at this time.

For close to one year now, local government secretariats across Osun State have been under illegal occupation by the court-sacked APC chairmen and councillors, whose election was nullified by the Federal High Court, Osogbo, in November 2022, and affirmed by the Court of Appeal on 10 February 2025 and again on 13 June 2025.

Their election was struck down because it was conducted in clear violation of the requirements of the law.

I did not remove these APC chairmen and councillors from office. The court did. Since then, they have had no lawful mandate whatsoever.

Yet, in brazen contempt of the law and in repudiation of democratic decency, they have refused to vacate the secretariats, emboldened by the backing of the Nigerian Police, as allegedly instructed by former Governor Gboyega Oyetola.
By contrast, pursuant to subsisting court orders, the Osun State High Court directed the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission to conduct fresh local government elections.

In compliance, after giving the required 360 days’ notice, lawful local government elections were held on 22 February 2025, and duly elected chairmen and councillors were sworn in on 23 February 2025. These officials constitute the only lawful local government leadership in Osun State today.

Illegal Tenure Elongation

It is a settled matter of law that the tenure of elected officials in Nigeria cannot be extended for a single day after the expiration of their tenure. The Supreme Court, in the case of former Governor Ladoja of Oyo State, ruled that the governor’s tenure could not be extended after finding in his favour that he was removed from office illegally for about eleven months and reinstating him to office.

In several filings that have become public documents in our courts, including the Supreme Court, their lawyers and the Attorney-General of the Federation admitted that these APC chairmen and councillors have no claim to office beyond October 22, 2025.
To further confirm that their so-called tenure has expired, the APC chairmen and councillors approached the Federal High Court, seeking an extension of their expired tenure.

That case has not been heard. But the very act of seeking an extension amounts to a clear admission, both in law and in fact, that whatever so-called tenure they claimed they had had expired. Assuming, without conceding, that the APC chairmen and councillors had any tenure, that tenure expired on October 22, 2025.

Despite these incontrovertible legal facts, they have continued to occupy the local government secretariats by brute force, with police protection allegedly acting on the instructions of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola.

A few days ago, believing that these APC imposters would honour even their own admission that their tenure had expired, local government workers attempted to resume their duties.

Although the police initially promised protection, many of these workers were instead beaten, harassed, and intimidated by a combination of armed police officers and APC thugs. The use of armed police officers to occupy local government secretariats and intimidate civil servants is a grave abuse of power and an affront to democracy.

My administration took serious exception to this development. However, we have deliberately chosen the path of peace. This is because the ultimate objective of these enemies of our people is to provoke violence, unleash mayhem, and then manufacture conditions for the imposition of a state of emergency on Osun State.

It is saddening that in a democracy, these APC chairmen and councillors threaten, on their various social media platforms, that they will continue to occupy the local government secretariats for as long as they want because they claim to have the backing of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola, and that any attempt to remove them from their illegal occupation of the local government secretariats will surely result in the imposition of a state of emergency on Osun State, with the suspension of my administration.

Time and again, we have frustrated their plans by responding with restraint, maturity, and respect for the rule of law. But sometimes, I wonder if we are really under a democratic system of government where nobody is above the law.

In Osun State, it seems that the APC chairmen and councillors, whose so-called tenure has expired, are above the law by the grace of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola. I have formally written to the heads of relevant federal security agencies regarding actions that threaten peace and order in Osun State.

It is deeply unfortunate that former Governor Gboyega Oyetola has chosen to weaponize federal institutions, particularly the Nigerian Police Force. He has equally applied the same approach to the United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA) to impose hardship and suffering on the good people of Osun State through alleged illegal instructions.

As you are aware, since February 2025, statutory allocations to Osun State local governments have been withheld. As of the last FAAC meeting, a total of One Hundred and Thirty Billion Naira of our local government funds is being illegally withheld by the Federal Government.
Attempts were made to divert those funds through accounts opened with United Bank for Africa (UBA) by people not authorized by law to be signatories to local government funds.

What I do not understand is why a reputable international bank like UBA has allowed itself to be used to break our laws and permit people who are not recognized by law to be signatories to Osun State local government accounts, after it has been advised on those whom the law says can be signatories to these accounts.

Can UBA wilfully break the laws of New York State or the laws of the City of London where it operates?
The answer is a CAPITAL NO.
But as far as they are concerned, this is Nigeria, where our laws can be trampled upon without consequence, as long as they are allegedly breaking the law to satisfy former Governor Gboyega Oyetola.

I want to inform the good people of Osun State that those senior managers in UBA who aided and abetted the opening of Osun State local government accounts by people not allowed by law are already facing criminal prosecution before our courts.

The local government statutory allocation is the primary source for the remuneration of primary school teachers, nurses, and other health workers at the 332 health care centres in Osun State, all local government workers, the traditional councils, as well as retirees in each local government in Osun State.

Imagine the level of suffering these people who depend on local government statutory allocations for the payment of their salaries would have gone through if my government had not stepped in to borrow from the state government to pay the salaries of these workers over the last almost 12 months, with the exception of traditional council salaries.

To be able to come up with the funds from the state government, a lot of sacrifices had to be made. Allowances due to senior civil servants and political appointees had to be put on hold, at great discomfort to these men and women, in addition to slowing down some of the state’s ongoing projects. We have done this because governance is, above all, about humanity, responsibility, and compassion. But this is not sustainable.

While Osun local government funds are being withheld to the detriment of primary school teachers, nurses in our primary health care centres, local government civil servants, retirees, and the good people of Osun State in general by UBA, allegedly under the directive of former Governor Oyetola, the APC chairmen and councillors whose so-called tenure has lapsed are receiving payments in the millions from UBA, again allegedly under the directive of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola.
How this barefaced illegality can be happening in a democracy is very unfortunate, to say the least.

At this point, I respectfully appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene. I wish to assure the good people of Osun State that Mr. President is not involved in this illegality. Mr. President is among those who fought the military for our democracy.

I believe Mr. President’s name is being used without his knowledge by Governor Gboyega Oyetola to get the Nigerian Police and UBA to obey his alleged illegal directives. I therefore urge Mr. President to protect the integrity of our democracy by rescuing Osun State local governments from the vice grip of those whose self-awarded tenure has lapsed.
I respectfully request that Governor Gboyega Oyetola be restrained from further issuance of illegal directives to the Nigerian Police, which undermine the very fabric of our democracy.

There is no place in our Constitution and laws that allows for tenure elongation for any elected official.

What confronts us here is law versus lawlessness, constitutional order versus naked impunity.

I therefore call on Nigerians and all those who sacrificed so much for our democracy to join us in demanding an immediate end to the siege on our local governments.

Former Governor Gboyega Oyetola, please allow Osun State to breathe. Enough is enough.

I thank you all for your support and steadfastness. Continue to pray for us and trust in our resolve to protect your interests.

As your governor, I will uphold the Constitution and safeguard your welfare.
I urge you to remain peaceful, lawful, and watchful.

May God bless you.
May God bless Osun State.
And may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

GOVERNOR ADELEKE SLAMS OYEBAMIJI’S ECONOMIC BLUEPRINT, SAYS IT SEEKS TO REVERSE CURRENT GAINS, THEN IMPOVERISHES OSUN PEOPLE

Governor Ademola Adeleke has condemned the recently released economic blueprint of the governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress, Muniru Bola Oyebamiji, describing it as “capital flight oriented, old school thinking and behind news of current socio-economic advances under Governor Ademola Adeleke.

In a statement issued on Sunday at Osogbo, Governor Adeleke noted that a review of Mr Oyebamiji economic plans confirms that his ideas are outdated, in conflict with progressive ideals he professes and a condemnable attempt to reverse the economic boom currently being enjoyed by Osun people, declaring that “Mr Oyebamiji by his own admission seeks to return Osun to the old era of capital flight to Lagos and suppressive tax regime to reimpose extreme poverty on Osun people.

“The Adeleke’s economic blueprint is focused on local content for citizens’ empowerment, grassroots and artisans’ financial inclusion, bridging infra deficit to fast track economic growth, widening tax base with reduced tax rates, integrated easing of business environment to attract investment, agro-industrialisation through revived economic and free trade zones, mining sector reforms to diversify state economy among others. The current plan is people – based m in conception and people – focussed in implementation.

“The Adeleke economic plan currently being implemented has empowered grassroots economy through artisan and cooperative financing of almost four billion naira; enhanced local businesses through strict implementation of the local content policy in procurement and workforce management; reinvigorated Osun Digital Economy hub to tap into multi-billion dollar global industry; increased Internally generated revenue through tax harmonization and digitisation; relaunched industrialisation through revival of Osun free trade zones; reduced state debt stock through sustainable debt management; revived agro – mechanisation and cocoa revolution; re – engineered partnership for growth with Osun businesses through Osun State Chamber of Commerce; and deepen investment drive through strong public private partnership among others.

“Mr Oyebamiji’s plan is imbecilic and deficient in depth and orientation. It regurgitated and copied policies already under implementation by the current government in the area of tax reforms, industrialisation, revenue digitisation and management, innovative investment drive, public private partnership, agro – industrial revolution. The AMBO plan is a recipe for economic retrogression, disempowerment of the local economy through abandonment of vital local content policy, reversal of current policy of Osun money serving Osun economy and residents.

“Osun economy is already on a sustainable growth trajectory. Power generation, transmission and distribution is critical to economic growth and development. Governor Adeleke has already signed into law the state electricity bill to regulate generation and distribution of electricity. An implementation process is underway. Mr Oyebamiji has no clue in such an arena. The digital economy is a global multi- billion dollar industry. Governor Adeleke has primed Osun as a digital hub to tap into the sector through a series of ICT and digital legislation now under implementation. Again, Mr Oyebamiji is oblivious of this new global trend.

“It is particularly shocking and insultive to Osun people to read of the fresh intention by Mr Oyebamiji to tie Osun economy to Lagos through capital flight of the old. While South West inter-state collaboration under Oodua framework is already ongoing, the idea of Lagos corridor from Mr Oyebamiji is a direct intention to kill Osun local content policy, destroy the drive to grow Osun economy on a sustainable agro-industrial platform and put an end to the successful push to grow Osun prosperity through digital economy.

“The height of deficiency in the AMBO plan is the ludicrous mention of the blue economy strategy. We assert that as the head of the national waterway agency, Mr Oyebamiji failed to stop waterway deaths which stood at almost 1000 by the time he left office. He failed to introduce or implement a modern waterways transport system despite an abundance of functioning systems that can be adapted. The Lagos Waterways Authority has an impressive record than what we had under AMBO leadership of NIWA.

“It is apt to note that under Governor Adeleke, the Owala Lake beach resort is functioning under PPP arrangements after decades of abandonment by governments under which Oyebamiji was a key player. Similar internal lakes at Modakeke and others are being projected for similar revival while key tourist sites are witnessing upgrades and modernisation under PPP model. Osun does not need sordid records at NIWA in Osun state.

“Like that popular song, Osun can never go back; Osun has gone too far in economic liberation, prosperity and sustainability; It is already too late for Osun to retrogress; it won’t make sense for Osun to go back to the era of corporate slavery enforced by some corporate hawks masquerading as people – loving politicians”, the statement concluded.

Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed,
Spokesperson to the State Governor.

OSUN STATE LAUNCHES INVESTMENT BROCHURE TO ATTRACT GLOBAL CAPITAL, DRIVE SUSTAINABLE GROWTH

The Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, has formally launched the Osun State Investment Brochure, describing it as a strategic instrument to open the state to investment, innovation, and long-term economic growth.

The launch, which took place on Thursday, 22nd January, 2026 at the Government House Banquet Hall, Osogbo, underscores the Adeleke administration’s commitment to reposition Osun State as a competitive, and investor-friendly destination within Nigeria and across international markets.

Speaking at the event, Governor Adeleke restated his administration’s clear policy direction, declaring that “Osun State is open for business. We offer policy consistency, government support, and investment security. In Osun, investors are not just welcomed; they are valued partners in progress.”

The Governor noted that since assuming office, his administration has pursued an investment-driven development agenda anchored on strong public-private partnership as a pathway to sustainable growth, job creation, and shared prosperity. He emphasized that government policies and actions are deliberately structured to support credible investors and stimulate economic expansion.

He disclosed that the state recently hosted a high-level delegation of investors from Mainland China and Hong Kong, in the company of the Owa of Ijeshaland, with discussions focused on concrete industrial development plans in sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, mining, and infrastructure.

Governor Adeleke also referenced the successful hosting of the Osun State Dinner and Industrial Investment Roundtable, which brought together investors, industry leaders, policymakers, and development partners to engage directly on opportunities, incentives, and partnerships available in the state. He explained that through the ‘Invest in Osun’ initiative, the state has continued to actively promote its investment potential locally, and internationally.

The Governor explained that the Investment Brochure, developed under the coordination of the Osun State Investment Promotion Agency (OSIPA), presents clear, and structured opportunities across priority sectors such as agriculture, solid minerals, tourism, hospitality, infrastructure, manufacturing, renewable energy, healthcare, education, and the creative economy.

He further pronounced Osun State’s comparative advantages, including fertile land, abundant mineral resources, strategic location, a youthful workforce, and a peaceful environment for business. According to His Excellency; Governor Adeleke’s deliberate reforms have been implemented to improve ease of doing business, including the establishment of a one-stop investment shop at the OSIPA building to simplify processes, strengthen institutions and protect investors.

Governor Adeleke commended the management of OSIPA, led by the Special Adviser to the Governor, Hon. Felix Olatunji, for their professionalism and foresight in producing the Investment Brochure, describing it as a clear statement of the state’s readiness to engage, partner, and grow. He also acknowledged the role of the media in projecting Osun State to the global investment community.

He concluded by inviting investors, and development partners to explore the opportunities outlined in the brochure, and collaborate with OSIPA to become part of Osun State’s growth story, with a shared objective of unlocking economic potential, creating sustainable jobs and securing a prosperous future for the people of the state.

Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed
Spokesperson to the Osun State Governor

GOVERNOR ADELEKE: EPITOME OF POLITICS BEYOND BOUNDARIES

The Executive Governor of Osun State, His Excellency, Sen. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke has proven beyond reasonable doubts, that politics, which many players have misinterpreted to a do-or-die affair, can be played beyond the boundaries of self-interest, bitterness, vendetta and needless aggrandizement.

The Governor’s arrival at the residence of Chief Bisi Akande with his cabinet members was on Saturday 17th January, 2026.

The recent visit of Governor Ademola Adeleke to the erstwhile Governor of the State and elder statesman, Chief Bisi Akande at his Ila-Orangun countryhome for his 87th birthday anniversary, is a pointer to leaving a resounding legacy that is worthy of emulation.

It lends credence to the fact that leadership is about all, not only about the segment or sentiment about religion, race, political platform or vantage points in social, economic and societal values.

Governor Adeleke in his magnanimity, has deemed it fit to honour the elder statesman despite known political parties’ differences. The major unifier in both figures, remains the good, growth and development of the masses, in every nook and cranny of Osun State.

The scenario captured the humility, respect and the spirit of sacrificial service to mankind. The Governor, despite the highly coveted position he occupies, needless ego, popularity or eulogies have not tampered with his honesty, humility and humanity in general.

While the actions and specifically the august visit of His Excellency are highly commendable, this is wishing the elder statesman, Chief Bisi Akande, a resounding celebration and many more fulfilling decades ahead, AMEN.

Osun indegenes at home and in the Diaspora are proud of this development and wish everyone, especially those highly placed, can borrow and turn a new leaf from bitter politics and selfish adventures.

KIDNAPPED ELDER TITILAYO OWOLABI REGAINS FREEDOM AFTER FOUR WEEKS

The people of Ora-Igbomina have announced the release of Elder Titilayo Owolabi of Ora, who was kidnapped over four weeks ago and held by suspected bandits.

In a press statement issued on behalf of the community, Ambassador Yemi Farounbi, OON, the Asiwaju of Ora-Igbomina, expressed gratitude to God for the safe return of the elder statesman, describing him as a patriot and a worthy senior citizen.

The community also appreciated the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, and the state government for their support and assistance throughout the period of captivity, while expressing confidence that the government would continue to strengthen security and expand government presence, particularly in boundary areas of the state.

Commendation was extended to the Police, the Military, and other security and intelligence agencies for their efforts and sacrifices in safeguarding lives and property across the country.

Ora-Igbomina residents further acknowledged the role of both the mass and social media for bringing the incident to national attention despite the community’s remote location.

Traditional rulers in Ifedayo Local Government Area were also praised, particularly the Orangun and the Asaoni, for their concern, support, and intervention. The statement emphasized that unity remains the community’s greatest strength.

The Akesin, chiefs, pastors, imams, and citizens of Ora-Igbomina were equally commended for their prayers, solidarity, and collective efforts during the difficult period.

The statement concluded with a call for continued unity and self-reliance, stressing that community cooperation remains essential to addressing shared challenges.

Signed
Ambassador Yemi Farounbi, OON,
Asiwaju of Ora-Igbomina

GOVERNOR ADELEKE BAGS BUSINESSDAY AWARD 2026

● AS OSUN EARNS NATIONAL RECOGNITION AS TOP RANKING STATE IN EDUCATION AND HUMAN CAPITAL COMPETITIVENESS

OSOGBO – 12/01/2026 – Osunstate.gov.ng

Osun State has again earned national recognition as the Governor, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, is set to receive the BusinessDay Award 2026 in honour of the state’s outstanding performance in Education and Human Capital Competitiveness under his administration.

The award will be presented at the 2026 States Competitiveness and Investment Readiness Awards (SCIRA) holding in Abuja, placing Osun on the national stage for reforms that are already being felt in schools, communities, and households across the state.

The recognition follows a detailed assessment by BusinessDay Newspapers, which irrefutably ranked Osun among the top-performing states in education delivery, youth development, skills readiness, and long-term human capital planning. The evaluation reflects practical improvements at the grassroots level, including better learning environments, improved teachers’ welfare in public schools, renewed attention to vocational and technical skills, and deliberate policies that prioritise young people.

It is worthy of note that across Osun’s urban centres and rural communities, the impact of these reforms is visibly evident. From rehabilitated classrooms to strengthened teacher support systems and expanded youth empowerment initiatives, the Adeleke administration’s focus on education is translating into real opportunities for students, artisans, and young professionals.

Speaking on the recognition, Governor Adeleke described the award as a collective achievement of the people of Osun, noting that development must be measured by how policies improve everyday lives.

“This recognition belongs to the people of Osun, because my leadership is people-centric, and our government is working for the ordinary citizen by investing in education and human capacity-building. When our children learn better and our youths acquire skills, the future of Osun is secure,” the Governor said.

Community leaders and education stakeholders have welcomed the development, describing it as further proof that Osun is moving in the right direction under a leadership that understands grassroots needs, and places human development above political showmanship.

From Osogbo to Ilesa, through Ikire, and into the nooks and crannies of the Central, East, and West Senatorial Districts, Governor Adeleke is proving to the people of Osun that when leadership works, the people feel it.

The BusinessDay Award 2026 reinforces Osun State’s growing reputation as a state where governance connects directly with the people, and where investment in education is treated with utmost priority. Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke is not just winning awards for Osun; he is winning trust and a clear vote of confidence from the people.

Signed:
Mallam Olawale Rasheed,
Spokesperson to the State Governor.

IMOLE FREE TRAIN RETURNS THOUSANDS OF PASSENGERS BACK TO LAGOS

The Imole Free Train Service, put in place by the Executive Governor of Osun State, His Excellency, Sen. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke has returned thousands of passengers from Osogbo Train Station back to Iddo Terminus, Lagos on Saturday.

Some of the passengers with their baggage had arrived at the Nelson Mandela Freedom Park Osogbo as early as 7:00 am in the morning to board the train.

Commending the Osun State Governor for such a wonderful initiative, the passengers expressed happiness and satisfaction over their experiences over the train and the transformational gesture of Governor Ademola Adeleke, in every nook and cranny of Osun State.

While speaking, the Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Dr. Bunmi Jenyo who bidded the passengers farewell to their varying destinations of Ibadan, Abeokuta and Lagos respectively, commended the Governor for the provision of the Imole Free Train Ride.

According to the Commissioner, “the Governor of Osun State, Sen. Dr. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, in his magnanimity, despite the paucity of funds, made it possible. Both coming all the way from Iddo Terminus, Lagos to Osogbo for Christmas and New Year celebrations”.

“This morning, the passengers, in their thousands with happiness and appreciation to Mr. Governor, have been conveyed back to their base”, he said.

“The period of their stay within the State has given them the opportunity to access the transformations that are taking place across Osun State”.

“We have gotten their feedback, it is encouraging His Excellency to continue. The people, who are the direct beneficiaries of Governor Adeleke’s giant strides in every sector of the economy are happy, and they are solidly behind him for his reelection bid, to continue in office till 2030”, the Commissioner said.

The Imole Free Train initiative was anchored by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Osun State.