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The Ondo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo SAN, OON, has dismissed a misleading and false report published by Opera News that misrepresented his stance on land grabbing activities in the state. The report, which erroneously used Dr. Ajulo’s image alongside the name of former Attorney General Mr. Charles Titiloye, falsely linked him to accusations against traditional rulers regarding land grabbing.

In a strong rebuttal, Dr. Ajulo’s office condemned the publication, calling it “mischievous” and accusing the report of fabricating statements and intentionally misleading the public. The statement clarified that Dr. Ajulo had never held a press conference where he accused any monarch of land grabbing. Instead, he has consistently refrained from such events due to concerns over being misquoted, opting to release official press statements for clarity and accuracy.

The controversy arose after Dr. Ajulo addressed the issue of land grabbing during a public hearing on the Anti-Land Grabbing Bill at the Ondo State House of Assembly. His comments, made extemporaneously, were taken out of context by the publication and manipulated to create a false narrative. Dr. Ajulo’s original statements emphasized the government’s commitment to combating land grabbing, regardless of who is involved, and highlighted the proactive steps being taken, including an Executive Order signed by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.

The Attorney General further clarified that at no point did he accuse any traditional ruler directly or suggest they would be specifically targeted for prosecution. His remarks were framed within the broader context of upholding the rule of law, with consequences for anyone, including monarchs, found guilty of land grabbing.

Dr. Ajulo’s office reiterated that the laws of Ondo State, especially those regarding land ownership, would be enforced strictly, and those who violate them would face the full force of the law. The public was urged to disregard the fabricated report and accept only verified and official statements from the Attorney General’s office.

The statement was signed by Yomi Adebayo, Technical Adviser to the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Ondo State.

Notable philanthropist, Dr. Tolulola Bayode, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Dorian Home, has ensured smiles on the faces of 1,000 widows and underprivileged individuals in Akure and its surrounding areas. As part of her mission to alleviate poverty and uplift vulnerable members of society, Dr. Bayode distributed 1,000 bags of rice, other food items and cash gifts. 

In a colourful distribution event held at the expansive Dorian Home, the largest orphanage in West Africa, free health screenings, including blood sugar and blood pressure tests, were provided to over 100 individuals who could not afford medical care. 

Speaking at the event, Dr. Bayode said “There is no doubt that the current economic situation is extremely challenging. People are struggling daily to make ends meet, and many families can barely afford basic necessities. To ease this burden, we decided to distribute 1,000 bags of rice to widows and other underprivileged members of society. But we didn’t stop there; we also added cash gifts to ensure our support is holistic and impactful.”  

The Dorian Home CEO emphasized that she aimed to spread the joy of Christmas and New Year to families who might struggle to celebrate. “This way, the beneficiaries can celebrate the festive season with dignity and joy, even in these difficult times.” she said.

And truly, the joy of the beneficiaries knew no bounds as they appreciated her for providing relief at these hard times, showering her with prayers and praises for her kindness, which they described as  a lifeline and restoration of their hope and faith in humanity.  

Dr. Bayode’s philanthropic gestures have consistently been focused on empowering women, supporting orphans, and alleviating poverty. She has, over the years, become a symbol of hope and inspirationally setting a benchmark for leadership in philanthropy. Her relentless commitment to making a difference has inspired many to follow her example.

A Nigerian Governor, the Ebonyi State Chief Executive, Rt Hon Francis Nwifuru has announced a Christmas bonus of N150,000 to each Worker in the State service.

In a release signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Monday Uzor, on his Facebook page, says the N150,000 Christmas Bonus will be paid before 1 p.m. on Tuesday, December 17.

Recall that in December Last year, Governor Nwifuru was among the three Governors (Lagos, Rivers State, and Ebonyi) who gave N100,000 to State civil servants to cushion the effects of the fuel subsidy.

The local government workers in the 13 local council areas who received a bonus of N50,000 last Christmas are also expecting the governor to direct council chairmen to replicate the same figure the governor gave state civil servants.

Governor Nwifuru had in November during a Sunday Holy Mass announced the approval of the payment of N75,000 minimum wage above the federal government-approved N70,000 new wage to civil servants in the state.

According to Governor Nwifuru, his decision followed a careful review of the current economic situation in the Country especially as it affects the workforce.

He added that the least paid Civil Servant on grade level 2 will enjoy a full minimum wage of N75,000 while from grade level 3 and above will get an increment of 40,000 across the board.

The funeral rites for the late Comrade Emmanuel Abiodun Owonola, a former Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council, Ondo Axis, and the Vice Chairman of Ikale North Local Council Development Area (LCDA), have been scheduled for this week.

Owonola, fondly known as “Equity,” passed away recently, leaving a legacy of leadership and service to his community and fellow students. His funeral will begin with a Candlelight procession on Wednesday, 11th December 2024, at 5 pm in Igbotako, where family, friends, and supporters will gather to honor his memory.

The following day, Thursday, 12th December 2024, the motorcade will leave General Hospital, Ondo at 8 am, making its way to Igbotako. A funeral service will be held at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Igbotako at 10 am, with interment to follow immediately after the service.

A second Candlelight procession will take place on Saturday, 14th December 2024 at 4 pm, starting from Fasoranti Park and ending at the NUJ Press Centre, Alagbaka, Akure. This will be followed by a Night of Tributes at the NUJ Hall, where friends and colleagues will gather to reflect on Owonola’s impact.

Owonola’s contributions to both student leadership and local governance are remembered with great respect, as he was known for his dedication to the empowerment of young people and his service to the people of Ikale North LCDA.

The funeral arrangements have been organized by the Committee of Friends.

The Ondo State Youth Network (OSYN) and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council (JCC), Ondo State Axis, are in mourning following the tragic passing of Hon. Comrade Owonola Abiodun Emmanuel, fondly known as *Equity*. 

Comrade Equity, who served as the Chairman of NANS JCC Ondo State Axis and the Acting Chairman of Ikale North Local Council Development Area (LCDA), passed away in the early hours of Tuesday, December 10, 2024, after a brief illness in Akure. Born on December 27th in the early 1980s, Equity was an influential figure in the student community and beyond.

The news of his death has left the student community, the people of Ikale North LCDA, Okitipupa LG and the Ondo State Youth Network in deep sorrow. Comrade Oluwarotimi Tobiloba Joshua (JOSH), Chairman of NANS JCC Ondo, expressed his heartfelt condolences, describing Comrade Equity as a visionary leader whose commitment to student advocacy and leadership was unparalleled. 

“Comrade Owonola Abiodun Emmanuel was more than just a leader; he was an inspiration to all who worked with him. His passion for justice and equity earned him widespread respect and admiration. His contributions to NANS JCC Ondo and his community were profound and transformative,” said Comrade JOSH. He also noted that Comrade Equity’s leadership set a standard of excellence and integrity, one that would continue to inspire future student leaders.

Equity was a dedicated servant of the people, both as a student leader and in his role as a key member of the Ikale North Transition Committee. His unwavering devotion to the youth and the people of Ondo State earned him the admiration of many, including his colleagues at OSYN, where he was as a foundational member and was widely respected for his influence and passion.

The Ondo State Youth Network (OSYN), in a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Christopher Olusa, also expressed deep sadness over his passing. “Equity was not just a comrade; he was a leader, an influencer, and a trailblazer. His contributions to OSYN and the youth of Ondo State cannot be overstated. As a husband, friend, and brother, his departure leaves a void that words cannot fill,” the statement read.

Comrade Equity’s legacy of advocacy for students’ rights and social justice was a hallmark of his leadership style. As Chairman of NANS JCC Ondo, he tirelessly championed the cause of students, ensuring their voices were heard at both the state and national levels. His leadership extended beyond student affairs, and he made significant contributions to his community through the Ikale North LCDA.

Both NANS JCC Ondo and OSYN have expressed their solidarity with the family of the late Comrade Equity and have pledged to continue his work in honor of his legacy. They have vowed to uphold the values of justice, equity, and progress that he championed throughout his life.

“We, the leadership of NANS JCC Ondo, pledge to uphold the values and vision that Comrade Equity stood for. His memory will continue to inspire us to work towards a future where justice, equity, and progress are paramount,” Comrade JOSH affirmed.

As the Ondo State Youth Network and NANS JCC Ondo mourn the loss of a beloved leader, they extend their condolences to Comrade Equity’s family, friends, and the Ikale community. The student body is determined to ensure that his legacy lives on through continued service and advocacy for justice and equity.

Funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course. The leadership of NANS JCC Ondo and OSYN request that all supporters and members stand in solidarity during this period of mourning.

Rest in peace, Comrade Equity. Your legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those you touched.