Category: Nigerian Tribune

The University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, has called on stakeholders in the health sector to build on the enduring legacy of renowned physiotherapy pioneer, Pa (Dr.) Thompson Abayomi Oshin by embracing innovation, research and technology to strengthen rehabilitation services in Nigeria.

The Chief Medical Director of UCH, Prof. Jesse Abiodun Otegbayo, made the call at a public lecture titled ‘The Past, Present and Future of Nigerian Physiotherapy’ held in Ibadan to mark Pa Oshin’s 100th birthday.

Represented by the Chairman, Medical Advisory Committee (CMAC), Prof. Bukola Adesina, Otegbayo described the centenarian as the father of physiotherapy in Nigeria and Africa, whose pioneering contributions transformed the profession and produced generations of specialists.

According to him, Pa Oshin, who joined UCH in 1955 as the country’s only chartered Nigerian physiotherapist, pioneered key rehabilitation units, became the hospital’s first Head and Consultant Physiotherapist, co-founded the Nigeria Society of Physiotherapy and helped establish the University of Ibadan’s physiotherapy degree programme.

He said physiotherapy has become a vital component of modern healthcare, with practitioners playing key roles in rehabilitation, preventive care and the management of chronic and neurological conditions.

Otegbayo stressed that the profession must embrace artificial intelligence, robotics, tele-rehabilitation, digital health solutions and specialist training while strengthening research and interdisciplinary collaboration.

He urged younger physiotherapists to emulate Pa Oshin’s values of excellence, integrity and selfless service, saying the centenary celebration underscored that true impact is measured by lives transformed and institutions built rather than years lived.

The guest lecturer, Dr Kamaldeen Sanni, urged the Federal Government to recognise physiotherapists as first-contact healthcare professionals, arguing that graduates of the Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) programme are equipped to assess patients independently and make referrals where necessary.

He also called on the government to abandon plans to introduce physiotherapy technicians, describing the proposal as retrogressive.

Sanni, however, advocated greater investment in training more physiotherapists, expanding rehabilitation services and supporting the establishment of faculties of physiotherapy and Colleges of Rehabilitation.

‘The future of physiotherapy is already here. What we want is for that future to be brighter,’ he said, noting that physiotherapy has become indispensable in the management of stroke, neurological disorders, chronic pain and other rehabilitation needs.

In his goodwill message, Emeritus Professor Oluwole Akande, pioneer Provost of the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, described Pa Oshin as a national treasure and Africa’s foremost physiotherapy pioneer whose century-long life exemplifies dedication, integrity and service.

He said the centenarian laid the foundation for a profession that has restored hope and mobility to millions and inspired generations of physiotherapists through his vision and commitment to excellence.

Also speaking, the Oyo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Health Sector, Dr Akinfemi Akinyode, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to advancing physiotherapy and rehabilitation services.

She highlighted Oyo’s historic role as the cradle of physiotherapy education in West Africa and noted that the state has the largest government-employed physiotherapy workforce in Nigeria and is the first to deploy physiotherapists across all 33 local government areas at the primary healthcare level.

She reiterated the government’s vision of positioning Oyo as Nigeria’s rehabilitation hub through sustained investment in specialist training, research and policies that integrate rehabilitation into universal health coverage.

Earlier, the Head of the Department of Physiotherapy, UCH, Dr Raymond Oluseyi Olaseinde, said the lecture was organised not only to celebrate Pa Oshin’s remarkable achievements but also to inspire reflection and renewed commitment to advancing the profession.

He urged younger physiotherapists to uphold the values of excellence, integrity and selfless service exemplified by the centenarian.

YOUTH leaders in Plateau State have pledged to mobilise one million votes for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general election, expressing confidence in the administration’s policies and programmes.

The youths also commended the Federal Government’s expansion of the Nigerian Army through the creation of additional divisions, describing the initiative as a strategic step toward improving operational coverage, addressing security gaps, and strengthening the nation’s response to emerging security challenges.

The commitment was made during separate strategic meetings convened by the Plateau State Director of the City Boy Movement (CBM), Mr. David Daser, with members of the State Working Committee and Coordinators from the 17 Local Government Areas of the state.

According to Daser, the meetings were organised to review the outcome of the recently concluded National Retreat of the movement and to fine-tune strategies for grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections.

‘I shared key takeaways from the recently concluded National Retreat, where we reviewed our direction as a movement and the responsibility before us. Together, we aligned with the Operation Rock Solid initiative, a statewide commitment to mobilise one million votes for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in 2027,’ he said.

Daser described the engagements as strategic planning sessions aimed at strengthening the movement’s organisational structure and preparing members for effective grassroots mobilisation across Plateau State.

Speaking on security, he applauded the Federal Government’s decision to establish additional Army divisions, noting that the initiative would improve operational effectiveness, eliminate security blind spots, and enhance the military’s capacity to respond swiftly to security threats across the country.

He also highlighted key infrastructure projects initiated by the Tinubu administration in Plateau State, including the Akwanga-Jos-Gombe Road, the Babban Lamba-Sharam Road, and the Mararaba Jama’a-Pankshin-Langtang-Mikang-Taraba Road, describing them as practical demonstrations of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Daser commended members of the State Working Committee and the 17 Local Government Coordinators for their dedication and commitment to the movement’s objectives.

‘The passion, unity, and commitment demonstrated by our members give me great confidence that together, we will build a stronger and more effective City Boy Movement in Plateau State and contribute meaningfully to the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027 under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC),’ he added.

EVEN 20 years after the passing of Dr. Abdul-Jelil Adebayo Amoloye, his life continues to offer profound lessons on the true meaning of leadership, public service and human development. While many political figures are remembered for the offices they occupied or the influence they wielded, Dr. Amoloye is remembered for something far more enduring – the values he embodied and the lives he transformed. His famous assertion that ‘the whole essence of politics and leadership is in itself defeated if the people do not have references to point at as dividends’ remains one of the most compelling definitions of responsible governance in contemporary Nigeria. It reflects a philosophy that places people above power, service above self-interest and measurable development above political rhetoric. Today, in an era where citizens increasingly demand accountability and impactful governance, the relevance of his ideals has become even more apparent. His memory therefore survives not merely because he once held public office but because he demonstrated that politics could become a noble instrument for social justice, empowerment and collective progress.

Born on 22nd May 1950, into the respected Ona-Onibode royal family of Igboho in present-day Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State, Dr. Amoloye’s early life reflected an uncommon passion for knowledge and self-improvement. His educational journey began with Islamic and Arabic studies under the tutelage of his father, a renowned cleric, before expanding through rigorous studies across towns such as Iwo, Ede, Ilorin and other places. Yet, despite his strong religious foundation, he recognized that modern education was equally indispensable for the advancement of individuals and society. This conviction led him to pursue Western education, eventually gaining admission to the University of Ibadan in 1970, where he earned his Bachelor’s, Master’s and later a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Arabic and Islamic Studies. His academic accomplishments were never pursued for prestige alone, rather, they became tools for intellectual liberation and community development. Even as a student, his emergence as Amir of the Muslim Students Society (MSS) reflected qualities of discipline, moral courage and visionary leadership that would later define his public life.

The defining characteristic of Dr. Amoloye’s leadership was his unwavering commitment to servant leadership, deeply rooted in his religious convictions and personal philosophy. Unlike many who perceive political office as a pathway to privilege and personal enrichment, he viewed leadership as a sacred responsibility entrusted to those willing to sacrifice for the common good. Humility, integrity, diligence, compassion and selflessness were not merely virtues he preached. They were principles he consistently practiced. He believed that no leader deserved comfort while followers remained neglected and it became widely acknowledged that he would never personally benefit from the proceeds of a collective struggle until the needs of the least privileged had first been addressed. This rare disposition earned him extraordinary respect across political, religious and social divides. Whether interacting with traditional rulers, civil servants, market women, students, religious leaders or ordinary citizens, he displayed the same humility and accessibility. His leadership proved that true greatness lies not in the distance between leaders and the people but in their closeness to the everyday realities of those they serve.

Throughout his political career, Dr. Amoloye occupied several strategic positions, each of which he approached with remarkable dedication and visionary purpose. His participation in the Constituent Assembly of 1988 and the Constitutional Conference of 1995 demonstrated his commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic foundations. His contributions to the creation of Oorelope Local Government and his advocacy for additional local government structures in Oke-Ogun region of Oyo state, reflected his deep understanding that political inclusion and administrative accessibility are essential ingredients of grassroots development. Likewise, his unwavering support for the advocacy of the realization of Oke-Ogun State illustrated his desire to ensure equitable representation and balanced regional development. Although he experienced both electoral victories and political disappointments, he never allowed temporary setbacks to diminish his commitment to public service. Instead, he remained steadfast, proving that genuine leadership is measured not by uninterrupted political success but by consistency of purpose and unwavering devotion to societal progress. Perhaps nowhere was Dr. Amoloye’s transformative vision more evident than during his tenure as Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology in Oyo State under the administration of Governor Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja (now Kabiyesi the Olubadan of Ibadan).

He understood that education represented the most powerful instrument for breaking the cycle of poverty, ignorance and social inequality. Consequently, he championed bold reforms aimed at restoring confidence in the public education system.The construction of additional secondary schools, the implementation of the thirty-pupils-per-class policy and the restructuring of tertiary institutions were all deliberate interventions designed to improve educational quality and accessibility. Importantly, his commitment to public education extended beyond policy pronouncements into personal conviction. Demonstrating uncommon consistency, none of his own children, including Azeezat Amoloye-Adebayo, a university don and a reputable professor of Law, attended private universities because he believed leaders must place confidence in the systems they ask citizens to trust. Beyond institutional reforms, perhaps his greatest educational contribution was facilitating access to higher education for thousands of indigent students. By opening doors for an estimated 30,000 young people to pursue tertiary education, he invested not merely in individuals but in generations of future leaders whose contributions continue to enrich society today.

Dr. Amoloye’s greatest achievement, however, cannot be fully measured through political appointments, policy reforms or physical infrastructure. His most enduring legacy lies in the transformation of human consciousness. He inspired people to discover their worth, embrace education as a pathway to liberation and believe that integrity could coexist with political leadership. He cultivated followers rather than dependents, empowering individuals to think independently while remaining committed to collective progress. This explains why, many years after his death, his influence continues to grow instead of fading. His followership has evolved into a living institution, carrying forward the values of justice, equity, compassion, discipline and community service that he tirelessly promoted. Such enduring relevance is rare in political history, where influence often diminishes soon after a leader leaves office. In Amoloye’s case, however, his philosophy has become self-sustaining because it is anchored not in personality cults but in timeless principles capable of inspiring successive generations.

As we reflect on Dr. Abdul-Jelil Adebayo Amoloye’s remarkable life, we are reminded that history reserves its highest honour for leaders whose impact transcends their lifetime. His vision was never limited to his generation, it was an investment in the future of his people. The political institution he established, the educational opportunities he created, the culture of integrity he exemplified and the enduring network of loyal followers he nurtured remain living testimonies to a life devoted to humanity.

The greatest tribute we can offer is not merely to celebrate his memory but to preserve and practice the ideals for which he stood. In an age where ethical leadership is increasingly scarce, Amoloye’s life continues to illuminate the path towards responsible governance and people-centred development. His story reminds us that genuine leadership is ultimately measured by the opportunities created for others, the hope inspired within communities and the enduring legacy left behind. Indeed, while Dr. Amoloye may have departed this world, his vision continues to inspire, his values continue to guide and his legacy continues to challenge every generation to build a society founded on justice, knowledge, humility and selfless service.

The Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Shamseldeen Ogunjimi, has told the House of Representatives ad hoc committee investigating the Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) that a letter from his office, which could have exposed alleged forged documents used by the council, was intercepted by its self-acclaimed Director-General, Adeniyi Adeyemi.

The AGF made the disclosure on Monday while appearing before the committee probing the controversy surrounding the PFIPC, including the ?1.3 billion allocated to the council in the 2026 Appropriation Act.

According to the AGF, the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF) received a request in November 2024, purportedly from the State House, seeking the creation of an administrative code for the council to facilitate its budgeting, accounting and financial reporting.

He explained that the request was written on State House letterhead and appeared authentic, prompting the treasury to process it and create the requested administrative code.

The OAGF subsequently replied to the State House on November 29, 2024, while forwarding a copy of its response to the Budget Office of the Federation.

However, Ogunjimi told lawmakers that the response never reached the State House because it was allegedly intercepted by Adeyemi.

‘The letter that was written to the treasury for us to give an administrative code was responded to.

‘Unfortunately, as events unfolded, it was discovered that that letter did not get to the State House. It was hijacked, precisely by the same man who claimed to be the director-general.

‘Because if our letter responding to the request of the State House that an administrative code should be issued had gotten to the State House, definitely the State House would have noticed that the letter requesting an administrative code was never issued by the State House,’ he said.

The AGF said the interception delayed the discovery that documents submitted by the promoters of the council were allegedly forged.

He disclosed that subsequent investigations revealed that the documents presented to the treasury, including the Act purportedly establishing the PFIPC and the appointment letter of its leadership, were fake.

‘What the fake agency did was to submit a fake Act-so we can call it fake now because we have seen it to be fake-purportedly enacted by the National Assembly, a fake letter of appointment; everything that was submitted to the leadership in treasury was fake,’ Ogunjimi told the committee.

He noted that treasury officials processed the documents in good faith because they appeared to have originated from the Presidency, giving no immediate cause for suspicion.

The AGF also addressed questions regarding treasury officials who had been working with the PFIPC.

He explained that two staff members from the OAGF had initially been deployed to the Office of the Chief Economic Adviser to the President in 2010 and 2013.

‘We never knew. We believed, based on the records available to the Treasury, that those officers were still with the Office of the Chief Economic Adviser to the President.

‘It was when all this matter came to light that we got to know that two of our staff were actually working or had been absorbed by the fake agency,’ he said.

The investigation is linked to Adeyemi’s claim that he was appointed Director-General of the PFIPC by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.

However, the Chief of Staff has denied issuing any appointment letter to Adeyemi.

Adeyemi was arrested by operatives of the Police Intelligence Response Team in Osun State on July 14.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives ad hoc committee has directed the Inspector-General of Police to produce Adeyemi before lawmakers on Wednesday to respond to questions regarding the allegations surrounding the council.

Ghanaian singer, Charles Nii Armah Mensah, popularly known as Shatta Wale, has explained that Ghanaian artists earn pennies compared to Nigerian artists.

Speaking during a recent episode of The Honest Bunch Podcast, Shatta Wale said many Ghanaians do not appreciate the success of their entertainers.

He also claimed that artists in Ghana earn little from their careers, adding that he experienced similar financial challenges.

‘Nigerians appreciate success, Ghana doesn’t appreciate success. As a star, I was sleeping on the street as big as I am. At one point, my girlfriend who was living with her parents’ was the one accommodating me.

‘Even as a big Ghanaian artist, back then, I take taxis to shows. Not just me, a lot of Ghanaian artists do that. Ghanaian artists earn pennies, while their Nigerian counterparts earn big,’ he said.

According to Shatta Wale, the situation reflects the level of support entertainers receive in Ghana compared to Nigeria.

The 41-year-old singer also urged his colleagues in Ghana’s entertainment industry to set higher standards and work toward improving the industry’s value.

Benue State Commissioner for Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change, Odoh Ugwu, has said that the state government has embarked on a series of measures to avert possible flooding in the state.

Ugwu stated this on Tuesday while speaking with newsmen in Makurdi.

According to him, the state government is on a daily basis reading the water level in order to know when to evacuate people living in flood-prone areas to a safe place.

The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency had issued a seven-day flood advisory to some states, including Benue, warning of a medium flood risk. The agency said the alert followed rising water levels at key river monitoring stations, increasing the likelihood of localised flooding along river channels and floodplains.

The Commissioner said that the state government had continually prepared for the rainy season and had made available all the equipment for water reading.

According to the Commissioner, the state government, aside from creating awareness, had also desilted the drainages for free flow of water.

According to him, ‘At the beginning of every year, we prepare for the rainy season and we start by ensuring that all the equipment we need in terms of water level reading and all that are intact, because we use it to know where the water level, where we are, to know when we are approaching the danger level and where we need to take action and all that.

‘Another thing was to create awareness during the rainy season by informing people living around the riverine area to move from the low level to a higher ground where they will be safe pending when they will have a normal level of water within their areas.’

The Commissioner added that the ongoing road construction in the capital city has really helped to control flooding.

He further said, ‘Here in Makurdi before now, you will be hearing of the issue of flooding in Makurdi, particularly, Achusa area and other environs but because of the rapid road construction that is going on, we will have less of that this year because most of these roads come with well-planned drainages that take care of most of these issues that we are talking about.’

Ugwu, however, appealed to the people of the state not to dump refuse or waste in the waterways, and added that the ministry, in conjunction with urban development, is working to bring down and remove all those houses that are sitting on the waterways.

Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu has dismissed speculations that the Ogun Central Senatorial ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been ceded to former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, insisting that the ticket remains firmly in his possession.

The lawmaker, who currently represents Ogun Central in the Senate, made the assertion on Monday while featuring on Oju Abe, a radio programme broadcast on Splash FM 106.7, Abeokuta. He declared that the ticket was ‘tightly in my pocket’ and ‘unconditionally, undisputedly in my kitty’.

He also expressed confidence that he would return to the National Assembly to represent the district in the 2027 general elections.

Highlighting his achievements over the past three and a half years in the Senate, Salisu said Ogun Central had witnessed an unprecedented level of legislative accomplishments and constituency development.

He attributed his confidence in securing another term to his performance in office, saying he has remained focused on delivering quality representation through impactful legislation, human capital development, digital transformation, infrastructure renewal, healthcare interventions and community empowerment.

According to him, the overwhelming support he continues to receive from constituents and stakeholders reflects the visible dividends of democracy delivered across Ogun Central Senatorial District.

Speaking on his legislative achievements, Salisu highlighted the National Internship and Unemployment Benefit Scheme Bill, which has passed second reading in the Senate, and the National Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill, which has passed first reading. He also recalled sponsoring motions seeking the suspension of the proposed sale of Lafarge Cement Plc to foreign investors and another calling for an end to illegal market raids by officers of the Nigeria Customs Service.

On education and digital empowerment, the senator said his office has consistently invested in young people through the annual sponsorship of more than 1,000 Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) candidates, the distribution of educational materials and digital skills training programmes with laptop support for youths, artisans, teachers, women, graduates and undergraduates.

He also listed the commissioning of a 250-capacity ICT Centre at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), the establishment of a new ICT centre at the Federal University of Medical Sciences, and the provision of ICT facilities and equipment to several secondary schools across Ogun Central as part of efforts to prepare the district for the digital economy.

Salisu further highlighted his healthcare and social intervention programmes, including medical outreaches conducted in collaboration with Shalom Global Medical Mission, the facilitation of Federal Government intervention programmes, including the ?50,000 cash grant for eligible beneficiaries, and the annual distribution of palliatives during Eid-el-Kabir and Christmas celebrations.

He also emphasised his commitment to women’s empowerment through the Okowo Salisu Empowerment Programme, which he said has supported hundreds of market women with financial assistance, digital skills training, laptops and business support.

On infrastructure development, the senator pointed to the rehabilitation of the Camp-FUNAAB-Alabata Road, the construction of the Akomoje-Mawuko-Opeji Road, the installation of transformers in Isabo CDA and Fijabi CDA, and the construction of motorised solar-powered boreholes in Olomore Market, Onikolobo, Ekerin Village, Okungbolu Village and Temidire Junction.

He also highlighted the impact of the Imole OMOYAYI Solar Streetlight Initiative, under which hundreds of solar-powered streetlights have been installed across communities in Ogun Central, including the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Secretariat, General Hospital, Ijaye, Oba Odeleye Park, and several towns in Abeokuta, Ifo, Odeda, Agbado, Itori, Ibafo and adjoining communities.

The senator disclosed that numerous qualified constituents had also secured employment opportunities through his intervention, although he declined to reveal their identities.

While thanking the leadership of the APC in Ogun State and Ogun Central Senatorial District for its confidence and support, Salisu urged residents to remain united and shun divisive politics.

Reflecting on his political journey, he said he has remained a committed progressive since 2007, recalling that he first contested under the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). He described himself as a grassroots politician whose humble upbringing in Abeokuta continues to shape his commitment to public service.

‘I was born and raised here in Abeokuta. People know my humble beginnings. My father was a transporter known for his integrity, and I have remained consistent in progressive politics from the ACN days to the APC. My commitment has always been to serve the people,’ he said.

Salisu also commended the APC governorship candidate, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), describing him as an experienced and committed progressive leader capable of sustaining Ogun State’s developmental trajectory.

He equally praised Governor Dapo Abiodun for what he described as purposeful leadership and developmental strides across Ogun State, expressing confidence that the APC would remain united and victorious in the 2027 elections.

Reaffirming his commitment to the people of Ogun Central, Salisu pledged to continue pursuing people-oriented legislation and developmental initiatives aimed at improving the socio-economic well-being of his constituents.

An Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Izu Umunna Cultural Association (IUCA), has expressed solidarity with Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, over his recent apology to Ndigbo for the events surrounding the Nigerian Civil War.

Mutfwang, during a courtesy visit by Igbo leaders from the 17 local government areas of the state last week, urged Ndigbo to put the events of the past behind them and continue to participate in the economic, social and political development of Nigeria.

The governor was quoted as saying: ‘I apologise to the Igbos so that we can put the past behind us and continue to foster unity. We have become one family because our people were deceived into going to war, and we regret it. We must close that chapter and move forward.

‘We must unite. We want the Igbos to regard us as their brothers and sisters, and together we must create an enabling environment where everyone can prosper.’

However, Mutfwang’s statement has attracted criticism not only from other ethnic groups but also from some of his kinsmen in Plateau State.

Former Minister of Sports Solomon Dalung and former Commissioner for Information Dan Manjang accused the governor of placing the burden of the Civil War on Plateau people, while the Hausa community called on Mutfwang to also apologise to them for not according them the status of indigenes of Plateau State.

However, Izu Umunna, a think tank and foremost affiliate of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in a statement signed by its President, Ichie Jerry Egede, and Secretary, Mazi Jude Owuamanam, and obtained by our correspondent on Sunday, said Mutfwang’s apology could not have come at a better time, as the country seeks peace and national reconciliation across ethnic divides.

The statement read: ‘Izu Umunna deeply appreciates and aligns with the Governor of Plateau State on his well-deserved apology to Ndigbo.

‘The Civil War was a watershed in Nigeria’s history and left a lasting scar on the psyche of every Igbo person. Since the end of that unfortunate episode, nobody has had the courage to accept responsibility for this national tragedy.

‘So, it takes the courage of a pragmatic leader like Governor Caleb Mutfwang to do what others before him could not.

‘If they say it wasn’t his place to offer the apology, who else would, especially when it is recognised that the leadership and many of the soldiers who fought the Civil War were from the Middle Belt region?

‘We salute the courage and pragmatism of Governor Caleb Mutfwang and assure him of our unwavering support for his administration.’

Izu Umunna urged all Ndigbo living in Plateau State to support the programmes and developmental strides of the government and to refrain from acts that could jeopardise the cordial relationship between Ndigbo, the government and the people of Plateau State.

Following the collapse of a two-storey building at Baale Road, Ajuwon, in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State, on Monday, the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has ordered a comprehensive technical investigation into the incident.

Governor Abiodun, in a statement issued by his Media Adviser on Information and Strategy, reaffirmed his commitment to protecting lives and preventing similar incidents across the state.

The statement said the incident happened following a severe thunderstorm, which claimed one life, while several occupants were reported to have narrowly escaped.

According to the statement, preliminary findings by a multi-agency investigation team revealed that the structure suffered a catastrophic structural failure, causing the lower floors to sink into the ground, with only portions of the upper slab remaining visible above the debris.

Eyewitnesses said the incident occurred at about 3:00 p.m., shortly after a heavy downpour accompanied by intense thunderstorms and a reported lightning strike in the vicinity.

Two women and their children reportedly escaped moments after noticing signs of structural distress, while a young man sustained minor injuries as he fled the building before it gave way.

The statement said that emergency responders, including officials of the Ogun State Safety Office, State Fire Service, Ministries of Environment, Physical Planning and Urban Development, Works and Infrastructure, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Ifo Local Government Water and Environmental Sanitation Department, immediately mobilised to the scene and commenced coordinated search-and-rescue operations.

Contractors working within the Akute-Alagbole and Agbado axis also swiftly deployed heavy equipment to the site, joining the rescue efforts less than 10 minutes after the collapse.

It was gathered that initial surface searches did not locate any victims, while traces of blood and footprints beneath the rubble prompted emergency teams to undertake a carefully controlled excavation exercise.

The operation eventually led to the recovery of one deceased victim, whose identity had yet to be confirmed at the time of the report.

The investigation team noted that while adverse weather conditions preceded the collapse, the exact cause of the structural failure could not be determined at the scene. Experts explained that only detailed structural, geotechnical and forensic engineering investigations would establish whether the incident resulted from foundation failure, soil instability, construction defects, the use of substandard materials, or other underlying factors.

Consequently, Governor Abiodun has directed specialists from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, the Ogun State Building Control Agency, the Building Production Management and Material Testing Agency, and other relevant regulatory bodies to conduct comprehensive assessments of the collapsed structure, evaluate soil conditions, examine construction materials, and inspect adjoining buildings to determine whether they have also been compromised.

Governor Abiodun expressed deep sadness over the tragic incident and extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, while sympathising with all those affected by the collapse.

He also commended emergency responders, first responders, volunteers and community members for their prompt intervention, which led to the successful rescue of several occupants and helped minimise further loss of life.

The Governor assured residents that the State Government would provide every necessary support to those affected while investigations continue. He stressed that anyone found to have violated approved building regulations, deviated from approved plans, or compromised construction standards would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The Ogun State Government also expressed appreciation to the Lagos State Government for its support during the emergency response, describing the collaboration as a demonstration of the strong partnership between both states in protecting lives and property.

Reaffirming its commitment to strengthening enforcement of physical planning regulations across the state, the government urged property developers, builders, artisans and residents to obtain all statutory approvals before commencing any construction project and to adhere strictly to approved building plans and specifications issued by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.

The government warned that unauthorised alterations to approved building designs, the use of substandard materials, and non-compliance with established construction standards pose grave risks to lives and property. It stressed that strict adherence to building regulations remains the most effective safeguard against avoidable structural failures.

The Oyo State Local Government Staff Pension Board (LGSPB) has commenced the payment of ?3 billion in gratuities to more than 1,000 retired primary school teachers, local government workers and next of kin of deceased pensioners across the state.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held on Tuesday at the Local Government Staff Training School, Secretariat, Ibadan, the Chairman of the Board, Hon. Akeem Ademola Ige, said the payment exercise would be carried out across the state’s geopolitical zones.

Ige disclosed that Governor Seyi Makinde approved and released the ?3 billion for the exercise, describing the gesture as another demonstration of the administration’s commitment to the welfare of retired workers.

He said, ‘The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde, has approved and released the sum of Three Billion Naira for the payment exercise. I congratulate all the beneficiaries of this gratuity payment.’

The Chairman urged residents to continue supporting the Makinde administration, saying, ‘A government that cares for its workers and pensioners deserves our collective support and prayers.’

He also advised the retirees to make prudent use of their benefits and avoid falling victim to fraudsters.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Local Government Staff Pension Board, Tpl. Olufemi Akinwale, said the Governor had remained committed to the welfare of pensioners since assuming office.

According to him, ‘In his characteristic manner of ensuring that adequate planning is put in place for sustainable payment of gratuity and other retirement benefits, the Governor has recently approved the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS). Unlike other states, the Oyo State Government will contribute 12 per cent, while the enrollees will contribute eight per cent.’

He added, ‘All hands must therefore be on deck to ensure the successful implementation of the new pension scheme that will run alongside the Defined Benefits Scheme.’

In his goodwill message, the Majority Leader of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Sanjo Adewoyin, congratulated the beneficiaries and commended Governor Makinde for sustaining the payment of gratuities and other retirement benefits. He also praised the appointment of Hon. Ige as Chairman of the Board, describing him as experienced, committed and dedicated to the development of the state.

The event featured the symbolic presentation of cheques to selected beneficiaries.

Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Adisa Gafar and Mrs. Bejide thanked Governor Makinde for prioritising the welfare of pensioners and consistently putting smiles on the faces of retired workers and senior citizens.

Dignitaries at the event included the Permanent Secretary, Ibadan Zone I, Barr. Jubril Alaga; Acting Head of Local Government Administration, Alhaji Musibau Ladele; Chairman of the Retired Primary School Teachers Wing, Comrade Dosu Akinpelu; Chairman of the Retired Local Government Staff Association, Alhaji Muniru Adesope; Secretary of the Retired Primary School Teachers Wing, Comrade Tunji Ogunwale; and heads of departments of the Local Government Staff Pension Board.