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AGODI GARDENS AND TRANS AMUSEMENT PARK FOR SALE: Idris Animasaun writes Open Letter to Seyi Makinde

1 Comment / Opinion / Idris animasaun / September 8, 2023 / environment, governance, oyostategovernment, politics

To His Excellency the Governor of Oyo State Engr. Seyi Makinde Your Excellency Sir, I will like to draw your attention to the rumours going about that the land on which the Trans Amusement Park and Agodi Gardens stand are up for sale. As an indigene of Ibadan this rumour is worrisome, therefore, I decided to call your attention to it. As Yoruba people, we all know the power and status that land ownership gives us individually and collectively. There is also sacred characteristic attach to certain piece/areas of land. It is also important to remember that collective land belongs to the unborn, the living and the ancestors, hence the need to utilize collectively owned land to take care of the present without putting the future in Jeopardy. According to the Land Use Act of 1978 Part 1 (1) ‘Subject to the provisions of this Act, all land comprised in the territory of each State in the Federation are hereby vested in the Governor of that State and such land shall be held in trust and administered for the use and common benefit of all Nigerians in accordance with the provisions of this Act’. It is important to remind ourselves of the purpose and importance of the park and garden in question. Globally, Parks and gardens play a crucial role in environmental sustainability in several ways these include: 1. Biodiversity Conservation: Parks and gardens can serve as habitats for various plant and animal species, contributing to biodiversity conservation. They provide a safe haven for native flora and fauna, helping to maintain ecological balance. A visit to Agodi Gardens reveals the rare species of trees that has been planted specifically for these purposes and has served research and other purposes. 2. Air Quality Improvement: Green spaces act as natural air purifiers, absorbing pollutants and emitting oxygen. This helps improve air quality, mitigating the effects of pollution and enhancing overall environmental health. 3. Carbon Sequestration: Trees and plants in parks and gardens absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, helping to mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 4. Urban Heat Island Reduction: Green spaces help cool urban areas by providing shade and reducing the urban heat island effect. This helps lower energy consumption for cooling and improves the overall comfort of city dwellers. While Trans Amusement Park is surrounded by built up area, the Agodi Parks and Gardens has a large volume of inhabited green landscape with the integration of the park with a water running through it gives the place a cool atmosphere. 5. Stormwater Management: Parks and gardens can absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and the risk of flooding. They also filter pollutants from stormwater, improving water quality in nearby bodies of water. 6. Education and Awareness: These spaces can serve as educational resources, raising awareness about environmental issues and promoting sustainable practices among visitors. 7. Mental and Physical Health Benefits: Access to green spaces enhances the well-being of urban populations, reducing stress and promoting physical activity. This, in turn, can lead to a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. 8. Aesthetic Value: Parks and gardens contribute to the aesthetic appeal of cities and provide recreational spaces, encouraging people to spend time outdoors and connect with nature creating a public space that brings together the rich and poor. Sometimes in July, I visited the Pleasure Park in Port-Harcourt and I can only wonder if you have by any chance in some of your numerous visits to River State had the opportunity to witness how the integration of Kiddies play zone, paintball zone, Gym area, Mini soccer area, Basketball area, VIP lounge, open bar, restaurant, Game zone, cinema, Adequate car park space, sidewalks that not only connects all these functions but runs through the entire perimetre of this park into the urban landscape is helping to define the city centre. Also, it is important to learn from the situation in Lagos State where the price of land has gone so high that the indigenous Lagosians can no longer afford to live in the areas set aside for the middle to upper class. Posterity will judge us if we make the same mistake. It will be a disservice to the over 7 million citizens of Oyo State if the Governor were to allow the last remaining park and Garden in Ibadan to be converted into estates that will only serve a selected few, creating an aristocracy in our democracy. Thereby furthering the gap between the haves and the have nots and dispose of the dreams and intentions of our founding fathers. Rumours like this is a wakeup call to all stakeholders such as the professional in construction industry, both in public and private practice to evaluate and be attentive to the land use and allocation activities of all tiers of government to date. An appraisal of all the conversion of use of public space to Estates, to whose benefits and of what importance ,there is the Idi Ishin estate with series of revocation without resettlement, ,Ajumose estate is with no value improvement, trans motel measuring 40,000m² is there in Jericho, Onireke is there, Lere Adigun and many others that are not masses driven, all these are priced out of the reach of the average citizen. To conclude, parks and gardens are integral to environmental sustainability as they support biodiversity, reduce pollution, mitigate climate change, manage water, educate the public, and improve overall quality of life in urban areas. These and many more are the values that both Agodi Parks and Gardens, and Trans Amusement Park has offered for years. Therefore, it is high time that all stakeholders including elected officials work towards the preservation and expansion of parks and gardens as they are essential for a sustainable and resilient future. The youths in Oyo state are prepared to contribute to the maintenance and creation of parks and gardens and such was evident in the proposal recently presented to your representatives by the creative industry on the need to revive the

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BODIJA ESTATE CRISES: THE NEED FOR GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION

Leave a Comment / Opinion / Idris animasaun / August 22, 2023 / environment, governance, oyostategovernment, politics

About two weeks ago, precisely on the 8th of August 2023, the body of Miss. Omoniyi Boluwatife a graduate of Nursing of Lead City University, Ibadan was discovered with her womb already gone after a night hangout with friends to celebrate her induction into Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria at one of the leading lounges within the Bodija Estate and environs which brought an unnecessary negative attention to the environs and inhabitants of the estate. In 1958, Bodija Estate came into being for residential purposes setting the pace like every other pace setter establishment in Oyo State as the first housing estate to be developed in the country as a leafy residential estate created by Old Western region. Bodija Estate was once home to expats, professionals, and high-ranking civil and public servants. However, a recent uncontrolled sprawl and emergence of commercial activities has since changed the face and bastardized the estate with clear indications that the state is now prioritizing what many may see as immoral economic interests above welfare and healthy living of people living in the area. The level of pollution, indiscriminate parking, unnecessary loitering by miscreants and prostitutes around the estate has reached an all time high and are all in a clear contrast of the state housing law of 2001 being aided by the activities of lounges/nightclub owners. A recent reports Indicated that the surge in security breaches is already reaching an unacceptable maximum threshold that was preceded by the residents on behalf of Bodija Estate Residents Association (BERA) crying for mercy and intervention of the state government as far back in 2021 when Tribune Online in her publication December 21, 2021 reported about efforts of the residents asking His Excellency Governor Seyi Makinde to regulate the approval of night clubs and lounges due to the amount of noise and other criminal activities causing them sleepless nights. The article went further to report the indiscriminate parking on both sides of the road and other available space that has now characterized the estate due to the growing uncontrolled commercialization of the “residential” estate which is a clear contrast to the rules behind initial set-up of the estate, thereby preventing occupants of the estate a reasonable level of peace. In response, as indicated in another Tribune Online publication dated January 7th 2022. The then Chairman of the corporation who is now the Deputy Governor of the state in person of Barrister Bayo Lawal and other top management staff on behalf of government held a close door meeting with lounge and club owners within the estate, security operatives and umbrella body of the residents, Bodija Estate Residents Association (BERA) in a close door meeting to mediate and ensure there are regulations in place for the smooth running of operations of the club owners. At the end of the meeting, a 12-points resolution was agreed upon. Inside Oyo News (another online publications of the same date) revealed that part of what was agreed in the communique was to investigate any outfits that has changed purpose of use from the original, strengthening of culverts to allow ease of accessibility into respective premises of establishments, provision of uniformed security guards to not only provide adequate security but also swift control of traffic which further directed that vehicles are only allowed to park on the left hand side of road in a strict adherence to traffic act, erecting of signposts that reads “No Loitering”, “No parking” and working with Nigeria Police Force to ward off insecurity and prostitutes from lining themselves along this road amongst other points listed in the communique. A recent Investigation revealed that fight broke out one night few days ago around Arigidi street which left plenty broken bottles littering the street gate. About four boys from nowhere looking for club/hotel chased a whole neighborhood guards from their duty post and went as far as ensuring that the nearby armed security was not spared. Lounges are now being built right behind people’s residential apartments playing loud and uncensored music not suitable for young kids, which is aside the drug abuse at night, plastics and environmental pollution that has now characterized the face of Bodija Estate. A morning drive around Awolowo Avenue down to Osuntokun to Aare perimeters on either of Thursday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday will leave one wondering the caliber of people who now inhabits the estate. These and many more are a pointer to what is to come if drastic actions are not in place to forestall unexpected occurrences. Findings and reports revealed that the growing concerns of the residents has since led to efforts in getting the audience of the Governor to wade in and put the matter to rest as a matter of urgency necessitated by recent happenings. A meeting which was scheduled to be held on Wednesday 16th of August between the Deputy Governor, Club/Lounge Owners and representative of BERA has since been postponed to Wednesday 23rd of August 2023. Going into this meeting, it is important to ask the following questions as regards the supposed implementations of the resolutions from the communique released after the meeting that was held last year when the Deputy Governor was still the Housing Corporation Chairman. When was the last agreed quarterly meeting held? How many of these lounges/night clubs complied with the sound level being reduced to 45 decibels from 10pm? It was also agreed that drugs should not be allowed to be peddled around and within premises of these outfits, yet some of them did not only allow for open smoking of all sorts of illicit drugs without control but went as far as accommodating kiosks that now allegedly sells these secretly without anyone reporting cases to appropriate agencies in fulfilling their own end of the bargain to prove innocence. It is very important to also ask questions about the activities of ministry of environments and natural resources with respect to their continued silence over the activities of these night club/lounges. Issues that surrounds environmental

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Dear Young Folks (Series 1).

Leave a Comment / Opinion / Idris animasaun / August 10, 2023 / Career guide, motivational, peptalk, Youth

Dear Young Folks, My life journey started like it’s going be a roller coaster when I passed the entrance examination age nine(9) and in Primary Three(3) to secure admission to one of the best public secondary schools at the time. Then again, I started trying out certificate examinations meant for SS3 Students from SS1 but didn’t really clear the results in one sitting until my father re-enrolled me for the same examination a year after I finished secondary school(I’ve made enough to qualify me if I want to use two sittings). Got admitted to one of the best Polytechnics at the time in 2004 but didn’t graduate until 2007 for a program that should last two years because I had carry overs(outstandings). What happened to the whizboy ?What went wrong ?I can justify my failures but it’s not justifiable for the purpose of this post.Let’s just admit that I failed.Yes I failed.Someone reading this post must have failed too, or will possibly fail at something too in the course of their lives. I lost 3years between 2007 to 2010 when I made a return for HND due to preparedness and graduated as one of the best students with a CGPA of 4.02 when I graduated in 2011. I went to Ahmadu Bello University in 2014 and was studying to earn a Post Graduate Diploma in Landscape Architecture, only to quit few weeks to the first semester examination, got married the following year. In 2019/20 I took a decision to go back to school again and graduated in 2022 narrowly missing out from First Class with 4.40 CGPA. One thing that is consistent is that I have failed at a point in time but never gave up. That first and foremost, I’ll have to be courageous to wear my failures upon my sleeves. I have to be willing to try again. My story revealed that, I am a Man of capacity, I have it in me but I let some things get to me at some point but still won’t give up. Here you have a brilliant mind like you.Here’s a smart guy like you.He is bold and courageous like you. Franklin Roosevelt battled with Polio, yet he turned things around and he’s regarded in history as America’s most feared President. 50cents was shot 9times and still turned his life around just by pouring out all his mind and energy into the mixtape that got the attention of Dr. Dre and Eminem. Shooting Stars of Ibadan has gone to relegation and made it back because they didn’t give up (story will be sweet when they win a continental title). President Buhari could have given up but he was resolute in his convinction and continued to try till he achieved his life long ambition of becoming the President of the most populous black nation on earth. This week, you gotta to confront your fear by trying again. Be decisive with your dreams. Clock is ticking.Go for it.You’ll get it. ????

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OPEN LETTER: Idris Animasaun writes Governor Seyi Makinde on need to address rising cost of food commodities despite the heavy investments in Agribusiness

Leave a Comment / Opinion / Idris animasaun / August 7, 2023 / Agribusiness, agriculture, governance, oyostategovernment, politics

As an independent observer with extensive grassroot coverage, it is that important that I speak on the current situation of increasing cost of living and particularly the ever-rising cost of food commodities in Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole. This is a national problem: ‘Nigeria declared a national emergency on food security July 13, 2023, as record inflation has made basic foods unaffordable for many. The president’s spokesperson also said authorities would boost the security architecture to protect farmers ‘. For observers and political commentators, it came as a surprise that the government of Oyo State did not respond immediately to this public declaration. The people of Oyo State are aware of the massive interest the Oyo State government has in Agriculture. In fact, Agriculture was one of the major areas of focus in Omituntun 1.0 and remains one of the key areas of focus of this administration. There were also massive investments in agriculture and agribusiness with Agricultural Hubs being proposed and one being built, and a major agriculture summit held in 2021 and another business summit held in London recently that had agriculture as one of the main areas of discussion. With all these, Oyo State should be expected to be reaping the yields from all the effort put into agriculture in the last 4 years. Some of the government programmes that were lunched include: Oyo State Agribusiness Park programme Oyo State Regional Agribusiness Development Programme Oyo State Sustainable Rural Cities Development Programme Oyo State Agribusiness Policy and Governance Programme Oyo State Agribusiness Park Programme Oyo State Youth in Agribusiness Programme There was also the YEAP programme, various trainings in collaboration with private partners and so on. The question now is what is the current impact of all the efforts and investments of the past 4 years on the citizens in Oyo State? A quick glance at the website of the Ministry of Agriculture and that of OYSADA does not provide any direction for agriculture in Oyo State both of which have not been updated lately. The bottom-line in agriculture for the ‘Baba Taju or Iya Ronke’ is high food production which will translate to cheaper food commodities, no matter how much foreign investors/investments that come into the State, if food prices do not come down then the ‘Baba Tajus and Iya Ronkes’ all over the State will not benefit from these investments. The government need to involve farmers that can practice farming and reduce the reliance on ‘agricultural policy experts’ many of whom have little practical experience. It is a sad situation that we do not have farm products with the Oyo State label on them in the market today. Too much money has been spent and too many meetings and programmes have been lunched, we need results that impact on the masses that is physical food products in the markets and on the tables in the family homes. We must separate the policy developers from the practical farmers, both roles cannot be rolled into one as it has not served us well. During Omituntun 1.0, there was massive investments in agricultural input distributions, inputs were distributed in 2020, 2021 and 2022. Although these were laudable actions at the time, the question now is how do we measure the effectiveness of these distributions which involved massive financial investments? With all the money spent on agriculture in the last 4 years both by the Oyo State government and the private investors, Oyo State should be the model from which other State come to learn. However, this does not appear to be the case. Oyo State is the Pacesetter, and it is high time we take our rightful place as the ‘Food Basket’ of Nigeria. I believe there is a simple solution to significantly boost our food production. Instead of investing billions into the building of massive structures on farm settlements, the government should purchase Tractors and agricultural machineries that can be leased to farmers at subsidised rates. The Oyo State government has Nine (9) farm settlements, the government can select one for example Eruwa, embark on large scale irrigation of the farmland on this selected farm settlement and bring in the YEAP trained youths to cultivate the land focusing on Vegetables that are high in vitamins, corn and sweet corn, tomatoes peppers, fruits etc. The irrigated farmland allows for all year-round farming and food production. The irrigation can be done within the next 3 to 4 months and by April/May 2024 the State will have its first massive yield of farm produce to help boost food production. The State can then purchase these food items and distribute to the poor. Doing it this way will also ensure accountability and transparency as we will be able to monitor all costs and record all inputs distributed and all outputs achieved. A major part of the immediate solution is also to provide direct investments to our local farmers, I do not mean the usual seed and chemical distribution, what is required is bringing the Farmers associations, cooperatives, and communities to the table. We must go down to the Ward level and not just rely on the list of names coming from government officials and political groups. Elections are over and government programmes must positively touch everyone in the State irrespective of political association. Many of these groups are prepared to work with the government if the engagement process is conducive and well though through, we must remember that the local farmers are the main drivers to a sustainable food security. It is important that there is a change of approach as the previous farm distribution exercises has not translated to increased food for consumption. It is also important to note that foreign investors will only stay around when the going is good, but the local farmers will remain come rain come shine. Foreign investments are good, but they usually will not give the necessary quick gains required in this difficult time. Therefore, it is key that local farmers, farmer

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AFFORDABLE ACCOMMODATION IN PRESENT-DAY NIGERIA: A FEASIBLE REALITY ? by Abegunde Temitope

Leave a Comment / Architecture / Idris animasaun / July 25, 2023 / architecture, building collapse, building construction, engineering, environment, quantity surveying, structures

As I sat down on a serene Sunday morning, engrossed in Donald Asher’s thought-provoking book, my mind began to wander back to past experiences. A tweet from a friend also flashed through my thoughts, promising collaboration on a future writing project. However, that is a talefor another time. Recently, a lively debate erupted online about the possibility of affordable housing for Nigerians.It all started when a man shared a building design and boldly claimed that he could construct a typical 2-bedroom house of such design for a mere ₦5 million, provided the individual already owned the land. Naturally, this statement sparked intense discussions about the feasibility of such an endeavor and also on affordable housing for average earning Nigerians. While some dissenting voices questioned its reality, the majority seemed optimistic. However, as a seasonedconstruction professional, I cannot help but analyze the situation from a different perspective. A quick glance at the design, floor area, foundation, construction methods, finishes and electricaland mechanical fittings reveals the impracticality of this claim. Now, don’t misunderstand me ₦5 million can indeed complete a construction project, depending on the client’s preferences. However, in today’s Nigerian economy, it is unlikely to manifest the man’s vision at such a cost. I eagerly anticipate his Twitter space, where he promises to elaborates on the viability of his assertion, as knowledge is an eternal quest. Until then, I will keep the material costs I initially calculated in my mind and later jotted down on a rough paper. Instead, I feel compelled to enlighten the public about the multitude of factors that contribute to the overall cost of a construction project. Quantity surveyors do not merely conjure up a tender sum; theircalculations consider various crucial elements. Client Taste and Budget: The paramount factor that guides every decision in a project is the client’s taste and budget. The design, finishes, and building type are all contingentupon the client’s desire for quality, cost-effectiveness, and timely completion. Regardless of the budget’s magnitude, every client seeks to obtain the best value for their investment. Physical Site Conditions and Location: The topography of the land plays a vital role in determining the suitable substructure for the proposed project. The foundation construction on low-bearing soil capacity greatly differs from that on high-bearing capacity soil. Consequently, the costs of strip, raft, pile, or pad foundations vary accordingly. Moreover, the soil composition of different locations, such as Bayelsa, Rivers, Oyo, Ekiti, Kwara, Gombe, and Jigawa, significantly influences the foundationexpenses for identical building plans due to variations in soil composition. Design: The cost of a project hinges upon the intricacies outlined by architects, structural engineers, and other design professionals. Their collective efforts strive to align with the client’s requirements and preferences. Naturally, a 2-bedroom house will entail different costs compared to a duplex or a high-rise building. Additionally, the functionality and geometry of the structure, including shape, size, and complexity, exert their own impacton the final construction expenses. Prevailing Market Conditions: This factor encompasses the current market prices of construction materials and their susceptibility to fluctuations. In the present Nigerianeconomy, plagued by inflation, the prices of essential materials have soared. For instance, cement now ranges from ₦4,500 to ₦5,200 per bag, while sand costs ₦5,000 per ton.Granite is priced at ₦12,000 per ton, reinforcement at ₦500,000 per ton, and 9″ and 6″ blocks at ₦400 and ₦300, respectively. Additionally, hardwood price of 50mm x 75mmis priced at ₦850, etc. Further expenses include roofing sheets, paint, tiles, ceilings, doors, windows, electrical wiring, fittings, mechanical pipes and accessories all subject tothe client’s preferences. These examples merely scratch the surface, as numerous materials’ costs are directly influenced by the country’s economic climate. Procurement: This aspect delves into the process of acquiring products and services for the construction project. Multiple procurement methods exist, such as traditional procurement, design and build procurement, and management procurement, each offering its own advantages and considerations. Method of Construction: The chosen contractor, work methodology, labour and subcontractor costs, machinery expenses, site maintenance and the contractor’s profit margin all play a significant role in determining the method of construction and itsassociated expenses. Paperwork and Legislative Constraints: Throughout the construction process, variouslegal and regulatory requirements must be adhered to, this includes obtaining permits, licenses, approval from relevant authorities and fulfilling any other legal obligations, alladding a layer of complexity and associated costs. These factors are not intended to deter or dishearten anyone. Instead, they aim to shed light onthe intricacies and realities of construction project costs. Construction professionals, includingarchitects, quantity surveyors, engineers, builders, and land surveyors, are readily available toprovide guidance. So, instead of being swayed by lofty motivational rhetoric, seek assistance from these experts when you are ready. Even in the face of prevailing economic challenges, you can still materialize your dream house by following the appropriate procedures.

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Re: Makinde Bans Street Trading

Leave a Comment / Opinion, Politics, Volunteering/Social works / Idris animasaun / July 13, 2023 / environment, governance, oyostategovernment, world environment day

While I commend His Excellency for taking this bold step in sanitizing our environment, one would expect that this announcement was preceded by the provision of waste bins and receptacles across various markets, shopping malls, health care facilities, hospitals, shopping malls, churches, mosques, stadia, car-parks, bus terminals, and other public places in our collective efforts to curb open dumping. Is it that the ones provided by Mottainai, Oyo State Waste Management Consultant during the inauguration of the Governor were ceremonial and for such purposes only ? There is already a growing need to put up infrastructure for collection from source: recycables and non recycables. Everyone and every household should be able to Bag their waste from source, then the government should pick up as at when due. Advocacy for waste separation from source to reduce “open dumping of waste” which is theme for this year National Sanitation Day. The ministry of environment that is expected to lead with examples is also a shadow of herself as a recent visit to their office in secretariat does not show anything to reflect strict adherence to practices that promotes sustainability, wellness and cleaniness. Awareness, advocacy, enlightenment and proper Environmental education should go beyond organizing webinars but airing of gingles, programs centered around these issues, consistent visit to schools, market places, collaborations and partnership with relevant agencies. May the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde succeed in his quest to reposition our state to be among the front runners of sustainable environments. Animasaun Ajibola Idris Co-founder @impactpassion_org Public Affairs Analyst and Environmental enthusiast writes from Molete, Ibadan.

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World Population Day, Idris Animasaun advocates for rights of women, girl child and exploring the abundance of social media in global population campaign

Leave a Comment / Opinion, Uncategorized / Idris animasaun / July 11, 2023 / children, environment, world population day

Idris Animasaun an environment enthusiast sustainable development and good governance advocate while speaking with our correspondence in commemoration of the world population day emphasizes on the need to explore new media in drawing the much needed ahead of the forthcoming national census by National Population Commission. The World Population Day which is a day set aside by resolution 45/216 of December 1990 of the United Nations General Assembly aimed at seeking attention on the urgency and importance of population issues, by enhancing awareness of population issues, including their relations to the environment and development has continued to be celebrated every 11th day since the very first of such in 1987. Highlighting the importance of social media, Mr. Idris Animasaun places adoption of strategies aimed at reaching out to youth via the most popular mediums in area of engagements and awareness. In his words, “Few weeks ago while appearing as a guest analyst on a radio program to speak about the population census, I expressed great concerns on the need for National Orientation Agency across every states of federation to set up and grow their online media presence with graphical contents. While commending the effort of the Oyo State Chapter under the Chairman of the agency, Mr. Kayode Odedodun on their activities and sensitization during the INEC registration and PVC collections, implementation of naira redesign of the federal government, much of such presence can be said on CENSUS. We should break the norm of limiting the campaigns to Radio and TV gingles, print media advertorials but also the opportunities abound social media. Most of our youths now spend so much time on their respective social media platforms such as Whatsapp, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok etc. It is now becoming imperative for concerned agencies should set up account to engage their new audience by running sponsored adverts, streaming of live events and awareness”. Mr. Idris while reacting further to journalists discussed the theme of this year celebration 2023 which is Unleashing the power of gender equality: Uplifting the voices of women and girls to unlock our world’s infinite possibilities. It is becoming important that adequate priorities are put in place for inclusivity of female gender in all spheres of life. We need to start showing concerns and responsibility by recognizing the great impact the works of Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Oby Ezekwesili, Late Dora Akunyili and many others who distinguished themselves when given a chance to serve this nation. We need to give them more opportunities to play their own role in the development of our nation he concluded.

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POTENTIALS IN THE OYO STATE TRANSPORT SECTOR, Idris Animasaun and Adetoro Toheeb writes another open letter to Governor Seyi Makinde

Leave a Comment / Opinion / Idris animasaun / July 6, 2023 / environment, governance

The Executive of Governor of Oyo state, H.E Governor Seyi Makinde. Sequel to my publication on 21st of June, 2023 where I highlighted five key factors on reform of public transportation in oyo state which includes digitalization of incentive collection, registration of transport workers, code of conduct of Park Management officials, amidst other important key factors enlisted in the publication. The fruition of my publication could be evidenced with the abduction of digital means of revenue collection by governor of Abia state, H.E Gov. Alex Otti which also includes issuance of identification and registration of transport workers in the state which is in line with global practices to curb corruption and enhance security of the state. It is best understood that the government of Oyo state has good interest in reformation of public transportation in the state in line with creation of Park Management System which was expected to profer a lasting end to hooliganism, thuggery, factionalism, maiming amidst many other social vices of National Union of Road Transport Worker and It’s counterpart, Road Transport Employees Association of Nigeria in 2019 but however, upon appointment of leadership of the board (P.M.S) every concerned observers and residents of the state will doubt the intention of the government because it was indifferent to “pouring the old wine into a new cup”. Despite heavy political criticism on the multimillion spent on construction of central bus terminals by the state government, it is undoubtable that if the public transport service is well organized and put to proper usage, government investment in construction of the central bus terminals is indeed a threshold to bringing sanity and civilization to public transportation within the state. However, it is gainsaying for anyone to commend the spending of the government due to how the terminals are currently underuse. The built bus terminals under Omituntun 1.0 is an eye opener on how to curtail the issue of road hawking, and ineffective road usage in the state as majority of traffics are caused by road hawkers and car parks. Government has to do more in creation of more simple bus terminals at every stops within the state example of those terminals is that at Ojota and Berger at Lagos state where the road width is extended at such stops for road hawkers and car parks. Through such innovations, the roads are able to serve its full purpose and it will drastically reduce road accidents since that will put a lasting end to the scrambling between road users and road hawkers. The good intention of government investments in building bus terminals and creation of Park Management System became a subject of query and is perceived unwanted because government is yet to do enough in aspects of drawing proper usage and enforcement of reform policies that will directly benefit the transport workers and residents of the state. Part of which includes registration and provision of means of identification for transport workers to further reduce kidnapping and hence strengthen security of the state against other related criminal activities. Digitalization of incentive collection policy to reduce corruption practices and to promote transparency and accountability of the revenue generated by the management system. Such incentives should be targeted at welfarism of transport workers, direct taxpayers such as provision of health insurance, birth cares and emergency purposes instead of preceding manual ways of enriching few individuals. Lastly, one of the prime cause of road accidents is the usage of “moving scraps” as cabs, drunk drivers, and obstruction caused by road abuse. Therapeutic rehabilitation with stiffened penalties should be enforced to road abusers. All this will reduce traffic congestion, road accidents, promotion of security, reduce environmental pollution, beautifies, and strengthened the state’s economy.

POTENTIALS IN THE OYO STATE TRANSPORT SECTOR, Idris Animasaun and Adetoro Toheeb writes another open letter to Governor Seyi Makinde Read More »

THE OYO STATE PARK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM: THE HULLABALOO

1 Comment / Politics / Idris animasaun / June 20, 2023 / governance, oyostategovernment, politics, security

Globally, public transportation is key to social, economic, and general human development. Public transportation is a means to create employment opportunities for citizens, a source of revenue and taxation and an avenue for well meaning members of the public to create a business enterprise with which they can earn an income, become an employer of labour, and pay taxes to the government of whichever jurisdiction in which they operate. The public transportation system in Oyo State is no different to what obtains globally. The Oyo State government has its own buses, with private groups and individuals have the larger share of the public transportation sector. There are also the different unions that operate at various carparks who control the revenue collection at these parks and all these activities are controlled by the union chairman. It is important to note that the funds required to be an investor in the public transportation sector are quite high ranging from about NGN300,000.00 (Three Hundred Thousand Naira) for a motorbike (OKADA) to the multimillion Naira buses. The rewards are quite high as well, however, there is no clear figure as to the average income as this is usually decided by the owner of the motorbike, taxicab, or bus. The hullabaloo within the public transportation sector across most States in Nigeria is down to the revenue collection at the various motor parks, and Oyo State is no different. The question that always come up whenever there is a change of government or handover or renewal of tenure at the State level is: ‘who controls the motor parks?’, in other words, ‘who becomes the chairman of the road transporters’. The answer to these questions usually leads to major physical conflicts between different groups within the road transporter union, these fracases have in the past led to fatalities. In 2019, to avoid the usual conflicts that accompany the change of chairmanship, the Governor set up the Park Management System and appointed Mr Mukaila ‘Auxillary’ as the State Chairman. This appointment came with its baggage, and some people felt it was the wrong appointment considering his antecedents and the role he played during Late Governor Ajimobi’s years. Fast forward to the current situation, the Governor has removed ‘Auxiliary’ and appointed someone else. As a neutral observer, the issue of ‘old wine in new wine skin’ comes to mind. What is the difference between the new appointee and the old one ? There are certain questions neutral observers want answered, they are: What support has the government put in place to help manage the emotional stability of these men in the motor parks? Have these men undergone any form of therapeutic rehabilitation? What training, campaign or code of conduct has the government put in place to manage issues relation to alcohol and substance misuse, personal presentation, Health, safety and security around the motor parks, proper road use, vehicle maintenance, customer care which will include adult and child safeguarding etc? Will there be an introduction of automated revenue collection in and around the motor parks? If yes, when, and how? Will the government provide the PMS staff with proper registration including ID cards, uniforms? The situation that unravelled in the last 4 years makes answering the above questions key to the development that is expected within the Park Management System over the next 4 years. It is important that anyone involved in the PMS undergo serious training in several key areas to ensure history does not repeat itself. To be fair to the immediate past Chairman of the PMS, there was no obvious rehabilitation, training or human relationship support. Auxiliary had history, he had been in prison for some time before he was released and saddled with such enormous responsibility. He handled the role the way he knows best, and to be fair it is a generally accepted fact that the role of the chairman of transporters is not for the faint hearted. Although, majority of the men that fill the chairmanship role are gentle and kind in nature, they must however, play the role of ‘hardmen’ to maintain authority. For example, the very first day I met Alhaji Akewusola Tokyo was about 25+ years ago at his Elere residence which is along Odo-Oba/Boluwaji road. I can tell you from that very first impression that such a man with how he treated me that day gladdens my heart, and it was difficult to believe he is the same person everyone feared so much. My mother who at the time was a friend to one of Alhaji’s wives maintained a concurrent relationship with Alhaji Tawa’s second wife who also lived less than a kilometre away. It is a fact I grew up visiting the homes of Alhaji Tawa more often and the feeling is yet the same. I had hoped that I would be able to work with Alhaji Mukaila Auxiliary before his recent travails in order to remodel the management system of our motor parks and road transport union so that they become more community friendly and have a more presentable image. To have grown up in Molete that was once regarded as the headquarters of Ibadan and Oyo state politics with the kind of brigadance that characterized the carriage and news around Baba Adedibu is also a contrasting image of how compassionate Baba is to me at my very first meeting (this was documented in my last post). We must all realise that behind all these men there exists, someone’s father, a husband, a brother, a friend. Rather than stand on the side-line criticising the current situation, there must be an open and honest dialogue with everyone willing to accept their failings and the needed correction made. It is in line with this that I reached out verbally to those I know can get words to the Governor on what we need to do to salvage the already difficult situation we found ouselves with escalated public perception of our security situations beyond what truly applies. None got back

THE OYO STATE PARK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM: THE HULLABALOO Read More »

Democracy Day: My Encounter With Late Alhaji Lamidi Adedibu — Self Acclaimed Mogaji Molete, Idris Animasaun Shares Experience

Leave a Comment / Politics / Idris animasaun / June 13, 2023 / Biography, governance, Memoir, oyostategovernment, politics, security

Walking through Molete this evening brought back nostalgia of those early years. And how at times we lined the street waiting and waving at dignitaries making their way to palatial home of Baba. The sirens, police escorts, luxury vehicles and joy of the goodies being shared at the aftermath of these guys leaving our neighborhood. My first contact with Baba was in 2002 when I went to deliver a letter I have written on behalf of my late aunt. As I approached the waiting chamber, I saw large crowd of people gathered also in waiting for his supposed attention. It was around 10am in the morning and initially I cared less about the huge number of people loitering by his gate and in the compound until I saw the ones that filled up his lounge. I went straight in and made my way to about the only space that looked comfortable for me to sit. Obviously anyone who’s familiar with Baba’s Lounge will remember this curvature chair that had just a centre part of it cut out. That is exactly the one I made my way to sit into as I didn’t have any idea of what it was meant for or any significance until I heard some women yelling at me not to sit there as it was reserved. I was deviant and as I about sitting, Baba appeared and told them to let the little boy alone. Baba sat beside me, I was struck by his humor and before I could make any statement one Alfa knelt and offered him prayers and everyone said Amen. He dipped his hand into his pocket and offered some few naira notes, then came a pastor who did the same and he replicated the same. It is like everyone taking turns to narrate their ordeals while he attends to them one after another. Then came a sudden interruption, as a white bus made its way into the arena with a lot of people singing his praises as he’s being ushered into another private chamber not far from where we all sat. Baba excused himself and directed his PA to attend to me immediately, I responded with a fierce look that I was told to deliver the letter to him personally. As at that time, it didn’t dawn on me that these PAs are privy to some of the things we thought are of private concerns. I had felt the content of the letter is deeper beyond what a 3rd person should know about until the man started to describe my aunty even before I could say jack. He went further by asking if the letter contained an agreement to a subject matter I have written to decline such requests. Few moments later, Baba made his way back as the meeting was a brief one, the hailings and chants made me later realized it was Senator Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja who came visiting Baba. Baba who had joined PDP ahead of the 2003 general elections was victorious not only in Oyo-State but PDP winning across the entire South-West cemented baba as the a major force to reckon with in the country. Baba who “mastered the art of political mobilization, demobilization and necessary coercion” meant different personality to different people due to his involvements in activities and events that may make or mar people’s interests. In fact, he’s reported to have lived a day at a time and is reknowned for contradicting himself some of the times. To Ladoja who he won an election for, he’s father and enemy at the same time. He got Ladoja removed from office as Governor and installed his deputy, denied him a second term ticket that earned the Ogbomoso born Alao Akala his election as the Executive Governor of Oyo State in 2007 (the party primary is not without drama). Looking at some of the timeline of events between 2003 until his death, one will agree to the fact that he’s till date the most colorful, controversial and ofcourse a peaceful person who hardly does anything without putting the interest of his people first. In pursuant of political relevance, the interest of his candidates and followers Baba philanthropical live was shrouded by mechanisms he adopted in getting the much needed results that consistently endeared him and the same time dreaded by his followers. Some the activities engaged by him involved; *House for the blind In Sabo. Bills of uncountable number of children. Salaries to many old people. Friday donations to all manners of people in need of help. Baba share rams and cows yearly. He renovated Mapo Hall Bulldoze Akala Express road and made motorable. Baba believed that freedom is basic and in whatever way it secured, should be pursued. In 1993, he pursued a conditional release of MKO Abiola but his adversaries disagreed with his position and later led to death of a Man who’s regarded as the hero of our Democracy. Baba loved his people, and leveraged on his strategies, smartness, boldness, to stay with them in 1983 when people like Richard Akinjide and Meredith Akinloye fled to exile for fear of incarceration. and a never give up person. Twice he lost an councilor election. Baba has a personality that doesn’t give up and such is seen when he lost councilorship election twice in 1954 when he ran with Action Group and 1956 with NCNC only to win at the third attempt in 1976 when he ran on his own name as an independent candidate. The aristocratic power broker gave up the ghost on the 11th day of June 2008 and buried on this day of the same year at the age of 80years old. The vacuum of leadership of people like Baba is greatly missed till date.

Democracy Day: My Encounter With Late Alhaji Lamidi Adedibu — Self Acclaimed Mogaji Molete, Idris Animasaun Shares Experience Read More »