"No Change In Resumption Date " - OAU Public Relations Officer

By Farombi Oluwaseun

With few days left to the proposed resumption date of academic activities in Obafemi Awolowo University, the university management has resolved that resumption holds as earlier scheduled despite the consistent agitation by the NASU, SSANU, and NAAT union members on campus.

Speaking with OAU Peeps News Agency , the University Public Relations Officer, Mr. Abiodun Olanrewaju stated that there is no change in resumption date. He further added that academic activities will commence immediately students resume.

Reacting to questions from OAU Peeps News Agency, the University Dean of Students’ Affairs, Prof. I.A Aransi affirmed that the resumption date remains 2nd January and cannot be altered.   " The End of the year break has been terminated,students should resume",He further added.

When asked as to whether the university management has already found  a way to circumvent  the effect of the ongoing Joint Non-Teaching Staff protest , Prof. Aransi said the students should leave that for the management to handle.

Also, while speaking with our correspondent,the OAU NASU Chairman, Comrade Odewunmi  said the Union doesn't recognize the resumption date. In his words "we were not involved when students students were given break, We don't know anything about the resumption ".
He further added that he cannot advice students to either resume or not as they do not have any issue with the school management but the Federal government. "" The indefinite strike still continues,but if students resume, we will try our best to see that the academic environment is conducive for them but we cannot guarantee that as we are working with the order from Abuja"", he further stated.

It will be recalled that the Senate of the University declared  an " End Of The Year Break" to students on December 5,2017 as a result of the unpalatable occurrences occasioned by the infefinite strike action of the Obafemi Awolowo University branch of the Non - Teaching Staff, which comprises  Non Academic Staff Union (NASU), Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT),against the Federal Government over an alleged disparity in the disbursement of Earned allowance to all the staff unions in Nigerian Universities.

Consequently, the students are expected to resume on Tuesday, 2nd January, while lectures commence on Wednesday, 3rd January, 2018.

However, as the time of filing this report, water supply has been restored to Halls of residence though in dark as electricity has not been restored including the academics environment of the university.

YALI RLC West Africa Emerging Leaders Program 2018 (Onsite Ghana and Nigeria)

The Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) was launched by the United States Government, to train the next generation of African Leaders who will shape the future of African business and entrepreneurship, civil society leadership, and public sector management.

The YALI Regional Leadership Centre (RLC) West Africa, Accra, offers you an innovative and game changing Online Emerging Leaders training program in the following courses:

Business and Entrepreneurship
Civil Society Leadership
Public Sector Management

The program is hosted by the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA).

Eligibility
Between the ages of 18 and 35
From the countries below:
Nigeria
Ghana
You must be able to read and write in English

You must have a valid ID (passport if you are outside Ghana)

Outstanding leadership training through global collaboration – The YALI RLC West Africa exceptional Emerging Leaders Online Program is created through the collaboration of leading universities and partners – ensuring that innovative, high quality and peer-reviewed courses can help you become a real Leader.

Application Deadline
19 January 2018

Apply Now for the YALI RLC West Africa Emerging Leaders Program 2018 – Onsite Ghana and Nigeria

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the YALI RLC West Africa Emerging Leaders Program 2018

Commonwealth Foundation Internship 2018 At Commonwealth Writers, London

Background
Commonwealth Writers aims to strengthen civic voice and shape public discourse through creative expression by less heard voices.

Commonwealth Writers is a cultural programme within the Commonwealth Foundation. The Foundation is an international organisation established by Heads of Government in support of the belief that the Commonwealth is as much an association of peoples as it is of governments. It is the Commonwealth agency for civil society; a unique, stand-alone organisation established by, funded and reporting to governments.

The role
We are looking for an Intern to work in the exciting arena of Commonwealth Writers. The internship will be London based and support activities of the programme, in particular the two websites, www.commonwealthwriters.org and www.addastories.org, and various projects including the Commonwealth Short Story Prize and craft development initiatives.

The person
The individual should have strong writing skills, research ability and experience, experience of working with websites and various social media tools, ability to meet tight deadlines, Microsoft Office knowledge and good administration skills.

Closing Date:
Friday 26 January 2018, midday (UK time)

Interviews:
Week of 12 February 2018

Allowance & Duration:
£50 per day allowance
6 to 12 months duration
As an internship this does not constitute employment with the Foundation. There are no payments for holiday or sickness.

Continue to application

Non- Academic Staff Strike Not Ending Soon – SSANU

The Non-teaching staff of Nigerian Universities; NASU, SSANU and NAAT under the auspices of the Joint Action Committee JAC said they will not call off the strike unless the Federal Government answer to their demands.

Speaking on behalf of the three unions, Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) spokesman, A.O Salaam said the workers are unhappy with the strike itself but were left with no other choice. Salaam said this in an interview with Journalists.

“I hate to sound negative because our honest desire is that the matter is resolved soon and we all resume to our various duty posts. As far as we are concerned, it is not in anybody’s interests that we stay away from work. However, if we are left with no choice, what do we do?”

In a lengthy discussion , he blamed the Federal Government for the strike. He said the Government have shown little or no concern in the matter and as it is the strike is not going to end soon.

In his words, “the bane of the crisis rocking the university system is insincerity and lack of commitment on the part of government. So if you ask me, I don’t see this strike ending very soon. Unfortunately!”

When quizzed about the rumours that the Earned Academic Allowance was meant to be for the Academic Staff alone he said, “the three Non-teaching unions negotiated Earned Allowances with the Federal Government in 2009. As far as we are concerned, there is nothing called Earned Academic Allowances because that’s not what was negotiated.

“There may be a group that is demanding Earned Academic Allowances but if we are to look at it dispassionately and from an enlightened perspective, the term Earned Allowance is more generic and cuts across the academic and non- teaching sectors.

“Unfortunately, the inclusion of the word academic, was intended to cause confusion and to create tensions and I think that agenda has succeeded.”

Also speaking on the meeting the Union leaders held with the Federal Government on December 19, he said the Government acknowledged the problems but did not proffer any solution, so the meeting was fruitless.

He however emphasized that the three unions are always ready to meet with the Government to proffer a lasting solution to the problems.

“We are not the ones to call a meeting. It’s their responsibility to invite us for meetings. When they do, we will attend. NAAT, NASU and SSANU, as responsible unions, will not shy away from any engagement or dialogue that will bring the conflict to an end.

“We will always make ourselves available but the onus lies with government. The earlier we are able to resolve the issues, the better for everybody.”

Source

OAU Break: Ile-Ife Traders Decry Poor Sales, Blame Government on Fuel Hike

By Uthman Samad

Few weeks ago, the students of the Obafemi Awolowo University proceeded  on an End of the year break, the traders of the Ife City has however complained of low sales since the break   amidst  fuel hike.

The traders in series of interview with OAU Peeps News Agency expressed their heart broken feelings over poor turn out of buyers especially during this Christmas period.

In her view, Mrs Adijat Olaniyan ,an hair dresser at  Lagere lamented over the poor turn out of customers saying that there is no any significant profit during the Christmas period and the normal period." People are looking for money to buy food and cloth to water for Christmas, not for hair-do as there's no sales at all"  Mrs Adijat added.

Furthermore, Madam Omisore Olayinka, a food seller told our correspondent that  the fuel hike and hoarding by the station owner has become every Christmas period tradition which do have effect on the purchasing power of buyers.

In the mean time, Mr Bankole durojaye told our correspondent that nothing spectacular can be pointed at during this Christmas period as their normal ways of working is not affected. Mr durojaye who is a fashion designer along lagere GTB axis lamented and called on government to pull money into the economy.

Speaking further, Emmanuel chiagozi, a boutique owner said their cloths are just hanged without customer to patronize nor check on their goods. "Like before, you can't see me like this for interview talkless sitting down with you because I will be so busy with customers, this year is seriously different as there is no green light which is peculiar to not only Ife".

Mr Clement chikeze who is  a shoe seller in Mayfair also decries the ugly state of the economy which is directly affecting their sales. He urged the government to find a lasting solution to December tradition of the petrol station and fuel hike which he said petrol is a pivotal joint of all traders and buyers. He added that there's no margin in their sales during this festive period as to when not.

Alh Amdalat, jewelry trader, while giving her comment on the situation of the period told OAU Peeps News Agency that there's no sales which has made them not to buy goods of high price just as people retract from costly products as we have been sleeping since morning without customer.

"The fuel scarcity is a major issue bewildering the growth of the economy especially developing state like Ife. An average citizen can not buy cloth for his family not to talk of going to cinema with the effect of petrol in their life. Imagine us buying fuel #160,#170, #180 per litre , definitely there will be rise in the price of transportation and you expect the price to remain the same as Osogbo to Ife is now #700 due the fuel hike" Adekunle Agboola, deputy chairman Osogbo car unit lamented.

Why You Should Opt For Carpooling

By Osinjowo Tomisin

The current petrol scarcity in many parts of the country has plunged many people into confusion. This situation is further worsened by the announced temporary halt in train operations which has been a strong consolation for people who frequently travel long distances even in this time. Many are seeking ways to cushion the effect of these on their finances, health and work performances. Carpooling is an effective measure.

Carpooling is an arrangement whereby several people travel together in the same car in order to save costs, reduce polluton etc. This can be of much help to especially workers who travel long distances daily. Carpooling is well practiced in many foreign countries.

The advantages of carpooling are numerous ranging from economic to health, environmental advantages.

Carpooling can help to save transportation costs of the participants as all it takes is a participant's car and cost of fuel( which will be contributed by the participants). This, on the large scale reduces demand for fuel. It can also do a lot in reducing congestion on roads and in vehicles used for public transport which will in turn reduce air pollution by the exhaust fumes of motor vehicles.

Besides so many financial advantages, carpooling has also health benefits as it reduces for participants the stress of struggling for a seat in public vehicles. This can reduce the risk of many diseases such as hypertension.

Try carpooling today!

Tony Elumelu Fellow Trains 21 Startups In Osun State

Startup LABS over the weekend hosted 21 startups across Osun state in Ile-Ife, on December 17, 2017 to learn what it takes to win the TonyElumelu grant in 2018.
The meetup was facilitated by a 2017 fellow of the Tony Elumelu Foundation and founder of Epower, Mr. Ogunbowale Gbenga. With an excited guest already seated, Gbenga was able to unleash expository insights into the basics of funding and all there is to securing a long term networking relationship and opportunities with 999 fellows if a startup made the TEF list.
Here is what the convener of Startup LABS and host of the meetup, Joshua IGBA has to say,

“The objectives of this meetup were met. I am more than confident that attendees of this meetup will make it to the TEF fellowship in 2018. It shall not end here; we will take this exposition to others and places, to teach those who have great products and ideas on how to apply.”


Here are what attendees have to say
John Ukwenga | Bestgrade Academy
This December edition of startup labs was wonderful. Gbenga has given an edge to any startup here today, who is considering the Tony Elumelu grant and any other accelerator programme out there. I learnt as a startup, one needs a mentor in the area of business so as to be properly guided in decisions making.

Dare Osunsanya | Darbot one-stop tech hub
Gbenga epower is an energetic and selfless entrepreneur with vast knowledge as regards various aspects of entrepreneurship. The training was an eye-opener to some of my mistakes when applying for accelerator programmes in the past. I was able to un-learn and re-learn.

Startup labs featuring TEF, continues in Abuja | January 7th and Lagos | January 14 featuring Ogunbowale Gbenga, Founder/CEO of Epower.

OAU Artiste "Lardort" Drops New Jam "Kilofe"

OAU's #STEADY crooner, LARDORT, after dropping track, MY BABY with Mr. Zaki is out with another major magic titled KILOFE. This track, produced by Badman and mixed by SPIRITMYX is one that is going to keep your finger on the replay button.

This Track Issa JAM!

About Lardort
Lardort the AfricanChild is a part 3 law student of the Obafemi Awolowo University, whose versatility can't be underrated as he dishes out yet another well "crafted sound"  KILOFE produced by Badman and mixed & mastered by Spyritmyx as a follow up on his last released single 'Steady'. You can reach him on Instagram and twitter @kinglardort

 Click Here To Download "Kilofe" 

Or

 Click Here To Get "Kilofe" On Itunes 

 You Can Also Stream Here 

Meet Business Owners And Organisations Around You With The Martcol App

 

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NASU Strike To Continue As JAC Yet To Reach Agreement With FG

From the circular released by the Joint Action Committee of NASU, NAAT and SSANU based on the outcomes of the meeting carried out between the committee and the Minister of Education, the unions have been instructed to continue the strike as no reasonable agreement as been reached just yet.

Find the circular attached.

NASU, SSANU, NAAT demand N30 Billion from FG To End Strike

By Farombi Oluwaseun

Striking non-teaching staff in universities have asked for the release of N30bn to their unions if the federal government wants the strike called off.

The unions, under the auspices of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities (NASU) and National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) embarked on another industrial action due to government’s inability to honour the deal it made with them.

Addressing reporters at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) on Wednesday, SSANU national vice president, Alfred Jimoh, said if the government releases the N30 billion, it would be added to the N4.6 billion shared among the three non-teaching staff.

Jimoh said: “Government should release more funds to take care of the arrears of the Earned Allowance of the three non-teaching staff of the Nigerian universities and to commence the immediate implementation of the allowances to forestall further accumulation of the arrears.”

The SSANU boss, who accused the government of using divide and rule system among the universities’ workers, declared that the ongoing strike would be total until their demands are met.

Also while speaking with Journalists, the SSANU Chairman,OAU branch, Comrade  Oketunde Ademola on behalf of  Non Academic Staffs blasted the university  management for paying the  earned allowance despite Protests against sharing formula. He further stated that strike is still in full scale as Earned allowance received is only a bonus .

As at the time of filing this report, main roads on OAU Campus are blocked as vehicular movements are being halted.

NECO Releases 2017 November/December GCE Results

​The National Examinations Council (NECO) has released 2017 November/December External Senior School Certificate Examination results.

Prospective candidates are expected to purchase NECO result checking scratch card before proceeding to check their results online,

Cards are available in all NECO offices.

How To Check Result…

1)Go to NECO result checking portal
http://www.mynecoexams.com/results/default.aspx

2)Select your examination type i.e. Nov/Dec

3)Select your year of examination i.e. 2017

4)Enter the result checking scratch card PIN number in the required column

5)Enter your examination number

Finally, click on Check My Result button to access your 2017 NECO GCE result.

Court Declares Change To ‘State Of Osun’ Illegal

An Osun State High Court sitting in Ilesa has said the changing of ‘Osun State’ to ‘State of Osun’ by the administration of Governor Rauf Aregbesola is illegal.

Justice Yinka Afolabi, while delivering the judgment on Thursday in a case instituted by Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association, Ilesa branch, Mr. Kanmi Ajibola, challenging the legality of the “State of Osun Land Use Charge Law,” held that the law and its makers were unknown to the 1999 Constitution.

Aregbesola had changed the name of the state from ‘Osun State’ to ‘State of Osun’ in 2011; but the NBA chairman, who is a human rights activist, approached the court in 2016 and asked the court to declare as null and void all transactions done by the state with the name ‘State of Osun.’

Afolabi also declared that the makers of the law, who are currently serving as members of the State House of Assembly, were not sworn in as members of the ‘State of Osun House of Assembly,’ but as members of ‘Osun State House of Assembly,’ going by the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution.
He said, “The executive governor of the state changed the name in 2011. The renaming of a state goes further and deeper for anyone to single-handedly do.

“To re-order the name of Osun State as “State of Osun” is hereby declared as illegal, null and void.

“On the oath of allegiance, I state that the Seventh Schedule is part of the law. It is not a mere draft or a mere oath. It does not give room for any alteration.

“After deposing to an oath of office, you cannot turn around to do otherwise,” Justice Afolabi stated.

The plaintiff had sought an order setting aside the “State of Osun Land Use Charge Law, 2016,” having been enacted by the legislative body that is not known to the Constitution and for the state not known to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended). It is not enforceable in Osun State.

Among other reliefs sought, the plaintiff also prayed for “a declaration that Osun State Government, having been delegated with the power to collect Land use charge revenue by the provisions of sections 2(2) and (3) of the “State of Osun Land use charge Law, 2016,” sections 4(1), 8(2), 10(1) & (5), 16(c)(i) & (ii), 17, 18, 21(3) and 22 of the “State of Osun Land use charge Law, 2016,” are not operable without appointing the Commissioner of Finance in Osun State.

Justice Afolabi threw out all the arguments by the State Attorney-General, Dr. Basiru Ajibola, who was the counsel for the governor and the state government and that of the Director of Legal Services, Mrs. Rachel Ojinni, as he granted all the seven prayers of the plaintiff.

Ajibola said the state government would appeal the verdict at the Court of Appeal.

Source

OAU Announces New Date For Sports' Admissions Screening

This is to inform all Sport Applicants that their screening into OAU which was initially postponed has been rescheduled for
Date: Wednesday December 20, 2017
Time: 9am prompt

Applicants are expected to be at the Sport Council 30 minutes to the Screening and are to prepare for both:
Oral and Practical Screening Sessions
Candidates are also expected to come with their Credentials and Sports Kits for the screening

The screening is only open to Sport applicants with 50% and above in their Post-UTME and D.E students with Upper Class Credit
Candidates are enjoined to prepare to travel back immediately after the Screening as they will not be allowed to sleep over on campus.

Thanks for your Understanding

Announcer
Abu Adamu
Director of Sports, OAU Sport Council

Osun Startups Converge In Ife, Strategize Towards Dominating Tony Elumelu Grant List

Startups in Osun state, Nigeria converge in Ife this Sunday, December 17 to strategise on dominating Africa's Largest Business incubator,- The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF) ahead of 2018 cycle of applications.

Registration has been on HERE (http://startups.paypass.africa). This is a meetup by StartupLABS.

Participants will bebefit the following:

Question2Question Guide on TEF applicationAccess to Fund raising material and template.Insights into 2018 predictions on startups.One on One consultation with facilitators.

The keynote resource for this startupLABS mmetup is OGUNBOWALE GBENGA, CEO of EPOWER.

Gbenga is 2017 fellow of TonyElumeluFoundation (Africa), an international Facebook Trainer. Gbenga has an Associate fellowship with the Royal Commonwealth Society (United Kingdom). He is listed among the top 50 Enterpreneurs by Diamond Bank and the Enterprise Development Center. A formal awardee of National Youth Service Corps Merit Award, amongst others.

Curator of StartupLABS, Mr. Joshua IGBA and Founder of Neonatar Media has this to say,-

"This is a good way for Founders of startups, especially early stage to conclude the year 2017. Funding is essential for business Stability and Expansion and GRANTS bring them with peace of mind.

We have great companies out there which have roots back to Ife. Jobberman, ToLet.com.ng, Cash Envoy, Gamesole, kudi.ai and more.

StartupLABS is playing a driver role in ensuring that more startups get funded, scale and become perhaps, Africa's next unicorn or icon like Joberman is today."

Meetup is open to all and pre registration is very vital  for logistics purposes.

Reg http://startups.paypass.africa

OAU Pays Earned Allowance To ASUU, NASU, Others

By Farombi Oluwaseun

The Management of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile - Ife, Osun State, has paid the Earned Allowance to its workers in compliance with the Federal Government directives that the money released be paid to every segment of the University workforce.

A statement by the Public Relations Officer of the University, Mr. Abiodun Olarewaju, affirmed that members of all the Unions: Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU), Non Academic Staff Union (NASU), Senior Staff Association of Nigeria University (SSANU) and National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) benefited from the Earned Allowance.

It will be recalled that the non teaching staff unions of Universities, comprising the Non Teaching Staff Union (NASU), Senior Staff Association of Nigerian University (SSANU) and National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) have embarked on an indefinite strike action against the Federal Government over an alleged disparity in the disbursement of Earned allowance to all the staff unions in Nigerian Universities.

With this development, the management, has appealed to its striking workers to sheath their sword and allow peace to reign on campus.

However, as at the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the NASU Chairman, OAU branch , Comrade Odewunmi , proved abortive as all his lines were switched off.

Prevail On Maintenance Hall Operators - Campus Journalists Tell OAU Management

Campus journalists in Obafemi Awolowo University, under the aegis of the Association of Campus Journalists (ACJ) has called on the university authorities to immediately intervene in the worsening state of the private hostel on campus, Maintenance Hall despite the continual increase in rent cost.

In a statement signed by the association's President, Okeowo Olasunkanmi; the General Secretary, Seun Ibrahim and the Public Relations Officer, Oye Ola Oladimeji, the body noted that its call is based on the "outcry of the occupants of the hall over the horrible state of the pocket-tearing hostels."

"Following the outcry of the occupants of maintenance hostels about the horrible state of the pocket-tearing hostels which are owned by the management and private individuals and in a bid to find a lasting solution to the inhumane treatment, some occupants of the hostel have deem it fit to relay their horrendous experience with ACJ's representatives. A few number of them narrated their ordeals anonymously because of the fear of victimization by the caretakers of the hostel. An occupants of De Gold hostel has this to say "despite the incessant increment in the hostel fee, that's from N75,000 to N95,000 and now N105,000, though its two persons in a room, there is no maintenance, our fans are not working since we packed in, The WC toilets are not working perfectly, The net has been torn which gives room for mosquitoes of different types into the room".

Another occupant from the same hostel also narrated her experience; "my room is not tiled, The building materials use are substandard, The roofs leak and despite meeting with the owner about the state of the hostel there is no development".

The sorry state of the hostel is not peculiar to De Gold hostel alone, as occupants of the Bver hostel also revealed the state of their "block" ; 'I stay in 3-man's room, not a big room though, there was no dustbin to dump refuse for a month, pumping machine is not working and there is no action about it, even after series of consultation with the management of the hostel.

Another occupant from Bver hostel says ; "the hostel fee which was initially N75,000 is now N85,000 yet there is no maintenance, The bed is bad to the extent that a laptop was destroyed, though N10,000 was given after we lodged complaints , but the owner later spent additional N15,000 to repair it and up till now, no measure has been taken to avoid such scenario from repeating itself. The table meant for reading and dinning is not in a good state, toilets pipe has broken which makes the place to be polluted, lastly we've been warned to pay before resumption hence we will meet our loads out of the hostel when we resume from the end of the year break".

Read Also: Maintaining In Maintenance

Stella Odeyemi Hostel is not left out in this mess, as occupants also expressed their displeasure over the negligence of the caretakers. One of the occupants has this to say; "there is no constant water in our hostel, we paid N120,000 last year, and now it's N140,000, but unfortunately there is no maintenance. Out of the four tanks of water we have only one is functioning, and the functioning one can't serve the whole hostel, and the ugly part of it is that the water is dirty and based on the information flying around the rent fee may be increased to N160,000, The caretaker hinges the blame on money charged by electricity distribution company, but this is not a good reason because other hostels are using light as well."

Another occupant from the same hostel also shared her experience thus;" there is no water in the rooms most especially block B for almost a month, sometime the sockets work, but light and fans are not. A room is charged N320,000, and the two occupants are to share the bill, and once they realise you have graduated they send you packing even when your rent is not due."

Another occupant also revealed to our correspondent about what she is passing through in the hostel;" there are scorpions in our rooms, and we are being denied access to the owner of the hostel. Construction of Another building is going on in our hostel, and the workers who are mostly male are always passing their night in the same hostel with us instead of them to be given an apartment to pass night outside the hostel that is basically for female students, we used to be disturbed by their noise in the midnight and we are not free to work anyhow as ladies because of the fear of having opposite sex passing night in the same hostel with us." she said. After much investigation to this inhumane issue, we seek a lasting solution through our:

RECOMMENDATIONS
- That the open market used by the hostel owners be regulated by the management.

- That the Dean of students affairs should make rules that will be binding on the maintenance hostel using the housing and tenant law provided by the federal republic of Nigeria

- That the management should send a notification letter to all hostels stating that all decisions earlier made should be pending, till after the meeting in which the decisions would be in accordance with the resolution of the meeting.

- That the meeting should have in attendance hostel owners, student representatives from each hostels and head workers for each hostel

- All decisions made at the meeting should also be binding on all hostels, while disciplinary measure should be taken on owners who refuses to attend the meeting and comply with the resolution of the meeting."

Students Lament Over Incessant NASU, ASUU, SSANU Strike

By Channels TV

As the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities (NASU) continues its one week strike, the West African Student Union (WAFU) has asked the Federal Government to settle all outstanding agreements with both teaching and non-teaching university lecturers to enable them to return to classes as soon as possible.

The students also called for adequate funding of the education sector in 2018, in order to end the incessant face-off between the Federal Government and lecturers of tertiary institutions just as it has given to other sectors of the economy.

President of WAFU, Zacchaeus Maikudi speaking in Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria over the weekend lamented the negative effects of the current strike by the Non Academic staff of universities on the students. He said it is high time the Federal Government deploy adequate resources to the sector, to address its endemic problems.

According to him, poor education funding had left the system with myriads of problems with negative impact on quality and standard of education in the country.

The Students Union Leader, further stressed that sound and qualitative education will only be provided if the gaps in learning facilities and welfare of staff are properly addressed through efficient and effective funding.

“We know that the Federal Government has been trying in tackling issues that have to do with ASUU strike, SSANNU strike and so on. We believe that the government is trying to see the end of all these strikes, because we had the information that some academic staff have received their earn allowances. So the only contradiction is that of the non-academic staff union. Our appeal to the federal government is to see how they can reach out to those non-academic staff Union members to see how education in this country will have a smooth running.

“We are eager to graduate, our younger ones are also coming into the system, and we want to see them prosper. Therefore, we want the federal government to please come in a special way to intervene, to see how this matter will be resolved,” he said.

Maikudi believed that proper funding of the education sector will end the lingering face-off with members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities and other unions in polytechnics and colleges of education.

Strike: OAU Postpones Sports' Admission Screening

As a result of the unpalatable occurrences occasioned by the strike action of the Obafemi Awolowo University branch of the Non - Teaching Staff, which comprises  Non Academic Staff Union (NASU), Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), the 2017/2018 sports admission screening slated for last Wednesday has been postponed indefinitely.

    In a release obtained by OAU Peeps News Agency from the office of the Director of Sports, Obafemi Awolowo University sports council, it stated that the exercise has to be postponed due to the unforeseen circumstances on campus.

"We truly apologise for all Inconveniences caused by this postponement. It was done with the best Interest of the Applicants at mind."--Abu Adamu, Director of Sports further stated.

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16-Year-Old Folasewa Makes OAU Proud In Platinum Reasoning Contest

By Farombi Oluwaseun

On Saturday, 18th November 2017 at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, 16-year-old Abdulsalam Folashewa, a student of Obafemi Awolowo University, was announced as the second runner up  out of about 380 registered candidates in the just concluded National  Platinum Reasoning Contest organized for all students in tertiary institutions in Nigeria organized by Platinum Mathematics Team. At the same time, a student of American University of Nigeria was awarded the 1st runner up while the overall winner was awarded to a student of Redeemer's University..

The overall winner was given a cheque of N500,000, the 1st runner up was awarded a cheque of N300,000 and a cheque of N200,000 was given to the 2nd runner up.

The names of the winners, their corresponding positions and institutions  are provided below:

Overall winner: Bankole Oluwafemi, Redeemer's University.

1st runner up: Salisu Ahmad, American University of Nigeria.

2nd runner up: Abdulsalam Folasewa , Obafemi Awolowo University.

The 4th to 100th positions were also given their consolation prizes thereafter.

The contest is a national contest among students in higher institutions in Nigeria and was open to all including students in  universities, polytechnics and colleges of education. It is officially sponsored by Pastor E.A Adeboye and His Excellency Alhaji Atiku Abubakar(GCON).

Speaking with newsmen,the 16years old great Ife student, she said "It all started when I saw the advert. I told one of my room mates who was skeptical about it considering the prizes attached. I applied and I started preparations. I downloaded General Mathematics questions for practice. To my utmost surprise, I was selected and was excited when I saw the message inviting me for the grand finale ceremony in Abuja."

The event  had in attendance the winners, their parents, the invited guests, the Platinum Mathematics Team members and the general audience which comprised of a section where winners were told to share their experience before, during and after the contest.

The winners were invited to the grand finale ceremony at Transcorp Hilton  Hotels,Abuja  for their grand prizes.

Reps Honour OAU Academic Record Breaker, Former Street Beggar

The House of Representatives on Tuesday during plenary honoured Aarinola Blessing and Abdulsalam Idowu for their rare feats and academic attainment.

Ms. Blessing, 24, was admitted into the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State to study Medicine and Surgery in 2011. She scored an excellent Cummulative Grade Point (CGPA) of 4.74 in her first year.

Subsequently in her second through sixth year she scored: Distinctions in Anatomy, Medical Biochemistry and Physiology (200L); Distinctions in Medical Biochemistry and Pharmacology (300L); Distinctions in Pathology and Pharmacology (400L); Distinctions in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mental Health and Dermatology (500L) and Distinctions in Surgery (600L) (An Achievement elusive for a period of 28 years in OAU/Nigerian Medicine and Community Health).

Meanwhile, the details of Mr. Kamaldeen, 38, shows that he lost his two legs to polio at the tender age of 3, lost his mother at the age of 4, started primary school at 8, and started street begging to raise money to buy school uniform, books and food.

He begged for alms from primary through secondary school and was known on the streets of Lagos as a beggar. He reportedly slept under Idumota Bridge for several years before saving money gathered from commuters and care givers alike to rent a room.

From street begging he bought GCE form in 2002; passed his GCE and JAMB examination and was subsequently admitted to study Political Science in University of Lagos. He later sat for another WAEC and JAMB examination while preparing for the completion of his first degree in Political Science.

In his determination to become a Lawyer, Mr. Abdulsalam gained admission to study Law at the University of Lagos in 2010, went to the Nigerian Law School in 2015 and was called to the Nigerian Bar on the 30th November, 2016.

In a motion by the House leader, Femi Gbajabiamila, the house commended Mr. Abdulsalam for his strong determination and perseverance despite his lifetime challenges and Miss Olaiya for her exceptional academic feat.

The house also also considered establishing a Parliamentary Honours/Award System for recognition of extraordinary achievement made by Nigerians.

The 8th Assembly has kept to its tradition of encouraging citizens with extraordinary records initiated through a motion from Femi Gbajabiamila on the March, 23, 2016. The same honour was given to Nigeria’s First 5.0 CGPA Record Breaker, Ayodele Dada.











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Strike : OAU Postpones Convocation Ceremonies

        Due to unforseen development occasioned by the ongoing national strike action of the non-teaching staff unions of   universities, it has become imperative for the authorities of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile - Ife, to postpone the 43rd Convocation Ceremonies of the University earlier scheduled for December 13 to 16, 2017.


A release by the Public Relations Officer of the University, Mr. Abiodun Olarewaju, stated that the non definite date for the suspension of the strike action has made the suspension of the 43rd Convocation Ceremonies of the University an unavoidable alternative.


Olarewaju expresses the regret of the University Management for any inconveniences the postponement might have caused the general public, most especially our invited guests, the graduating students, their parents and guardians, friends and well wishers, the alumni, lovers of Great Ife and all other stakeholders.


It will be recalled that the non teaching staff unions of Universities, comprising the Non Teaching Staff Union (NASU), Senior Staff Association of Nigerian University (SSANU) and National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) have embarked on an indefinite strike action against the Federal Government over an alleged disparity in the disbursement of Earned allowance to all the staff unions in Nigeria Universities.


The withdrawal of services of the members of these unions has compelled the management of OAU to ask its students to proceed on "End of the Year" break and the eventual postponement of this year's (43rd) Convocation Ceremonies.

OAU Suspends Academic Activities, To Resume Next Year

As a result of the unpalatable occurrences occasioned by the strike action of the Obafemi Awolowo University branch of the Non – Teaching Staff, which comprises Non Academic Staff Union (NASU), Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), the Senate of the University, at its emergency meeting held today, Tuesday, 5th December, 2017, has approved that the Students of the University should proceed on an “End of the Year” break with immediate effect.

A release by the Public Relations Officer of the University, Mr. Abiodun Olarewaju, stated that the Students have been asked to vacate their Halls of residence latest by 4:00pm on Wednesday, 6th December, 2017.

Accordingly, the general public, particularly the Parents / Guardians of our students have been asked to note this latest development and ensure that their children and wards are prevailed upon to comply with this directive.

Consequently, the students are expected to resume on Tuesday, 2nd January, while lectures commence on Wednesday, 3rd January, 2018. While we pray for journey mercies for our students to their respective destinations, we also wish them a Merry Christmas and Prosperous 2018.

Because There Is No Attendance In Heaven

By ‘Joba Ojelabi

It is no longer news that the Non-Academic Staff Union of Universities embarked on what was supposed to be a nationwide strike. Unsurprisingly, the protest and strike action has been most intense at the University of Ibadan and the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-ife. The reason for the action was said to be the sharing formula of the Earned allowances areas as stipulated by the Federal Government. From sources online, the formula seemed grossly unfair to the union as about 89% was said to be for the Academic Staff whilst the remaining 11% was for the other three unions; NAAT, NASU and SSANU. As unfair as the sharing formula might sound, I doubt that I am in any position to comment on the correctness of the formula as I do not have all the details surrounding the sharing. However, one thing that concerns me is how the actions and the seeming brawl between the academic and non-academic staff of the Obafemi Awolowo University affect me, for obvious reasons of course.

The past few working days have been hectic for most students of the Obafemi Awolowo University, as although it is quite apparent that the Non-academic are taking their threats seriously, at least to some reasonable extent, the academic staff might not really be taking them too seriously as classes, tests and other activities still seem to be going on even when it is very uncomfortable for students. For the most of last week, students who reside off campus who regularly pay around ₦60 to transport themselves to campus started to pay as high as ₦200, coupled with the inconvenience of walking all the way from the banking area to wherever their destination was on campus. Certainly, the transport workers too must certainly bear some chastisement as they only saw the circumstance as a means to make money and nothing more. After all, when elephants fight, the grass suffers and the wise gardener makes more money.
Of course, any reasonable advocacy might have come easier when we had a Student’s Union, hopefully events like this are enough to remind the passionate dreamers who go around with all that “you are the union” mumbo jumbo of the harsh reality of not having a Union, or perhaps they keep pretending.

I had planned to start this article with a narrative of my experience from last week’s events and already this is no longer achievable but it just might be a good closer as well:
“So sometime last week, I’m on my way to class amidst the NASU brouhaha, I get to the campus gate only to meet it barricaded- most probably with both physical and spiritual fortifications. But as often is, I assume that the barricade is for automated vehicles so I make an effort to jump over the simple wooden hindrance, only for me to hear a voice yelling from a distance that I should only jump over the barricade if I was ready to die. Well I wasn’t. As a matter of fact, at the time only one thought flashed through my mind; “What did we bring to this world gan gan?”__ So like my father’s son, I dusted my shoes and walked in the opposite direction, keeping in mind that a seeming similar scene had occurred at the Faculty of Pharmacy about a day prior. Now every time my class representative comes on the class Whatsapp page to remind us of how the last lecturer gave an impromptu test or the next lecturer might take attendance in class, I just ask myself in the corner of my mind, that place where one is truly alone with himself; Life or Degree?

NASU OAU Bark Harder, Threaten To Cut Power And Water Supply

The Non-Academic Staff Union of the Obafemi Awolowo University, ile-ife today 4th December held her congress in compliance with the directives of the National Joint Action Committee currently handling the earned allowances crises going on between the union, her sister Union ASUU and the Federal Government.

At the congress, the Union resolved to commence a full fledged industrial action tomorrow, Tuesday 5th December 2017 cutting off power and water supply and access to the University Health Centre.

Keeping in mind that the University management in her last release signed by the University Registrar resolved to commence payment using the sharing formula stipulated by the Federal Government and also promised to take necessary actions against the Union in case of any hindrance in the activities of the University.

Students of the institution however remain the real victims of the faceoff as the Academic Staff continue her activities despite the various threats and inconveniences caused by the protesting workers.

It is also worthy to not that the NASU chapters of the University of Ibadan and the University of Lagos amongst others have also joined the industrial action.

NASELS President, VP, PRO, Fin Sec, Treasurer Impeached, Others Suspended

By Uthman Samad.

Yesterday,December 3rd,2017, the National Association of English and Literary  Students' Representative Council of Obafemi Awolowo University  in their parliamentary sitting impeached the President with other executives  suspended.

In a resolution obtained by OAU Peeps News Agency& signed by the   speaker of NSRC, Hon. Adelowo Adegboyega , he stated the crucial reasons behind the Impeachment of the president & some other executives.

The embattled President , Fatoba Olusola Peter was said to be  impeached on his autocratic actions, misplacement of priorities, autonomous spending without ratification from the NSRC and failure to be present in meetings summoned by the committees of the association; (including the Budget and Finance committee).

His other  actions which resulted in his impeachment  further include failure to be present to give stewardship report on two different occasions without prior notification of absence, presentation of award to one Miss Ayobami Adebayo without approval from the NSRC, failure to sign the approved fund  for NCB (NASELS Communication Bureau) and Outright disregard for the resolutions and authority of the NSRC.


On the same vein,  Akindoyin Mary, the  Vice President of the department was also served an Impeachment  due to   negligence of her official responsibilities as enshrined in Section 12 of the NASELS Constitution With Cases of  misplacement of Priorities; and disregard of the resolutions and authority of the house.

The Public Relations Officer ,Olaobaju Ayomitunde (Kidboss) out of his committed abberations against Section 26 (i) and (iv); Section 54 (i) and (ii) of NASELS constitution,  was also impeached.

Other executives impeached include; The Financial Secretary;Sam Adewole Adeshakin &the  Treasurer; Opaaje Alexander for  mismanagement of funds,misplacement of priorities, Failure to be present at the meetings summoned by the committees of the association (The budget and Finance committee) and  disregard of the resolutions and authority of the house with the Librarian, Umeh Chikwere  impeached  due to total negligence of duties amidst several allegations.

However, the General Secretary;Owolabi Damilare (Sir Damait), Social director; Ashiru Adekunle (Ade Ash) and the  sport director,  Hassan Adeyinka (General Chan) were all suspended for a period of two weeks.

The Assistant General Secretary and Assistant Librarian were also fined with #1000 each to the office of the clerk before the fifth day of December with failure to do so could attract two weeks suspension.

The Parliamentarians concluded the sitting by  conferring the power on the Speaker of the NASELS Students’ Representative Council (NSRC) to summon a congress with Audit Committee writing a letter to the Association’s bank (UBA) to halt every financial activities on the Association’s account till further notice and  a letter to request for  the Statement of Account.

As at the time of filing  this report when contacted by OAU Peeps News Agency correspondent, the impeached President of the association refused to comment on the matter while other embattled executives refused to pick their calls.

A Storyteller At 27: A Review of The "27" Album

By 'Joba Ojelabi

Rap is sacred, at least in its original and unadulterated form. Making art from nothing but words and a rhythm requires a fine level of creativity and effort. Standing out in this art however becomes even more tasking if a fine number of people have explored and mastered the art. Within the Nigerian music industry alone, there have been countless rappers who have emerged with distinct approaches to the art: From the more elitist style of M.I, to the indigenous bars of the likes of Olamide, Phyno and a host of others, rap can have different meanings to a listener. And unlike singing, an artist might not be able to hide his/her inadequacies behind sweet melodies and high pitches. Barrister Folarin Falana is a name that should not be strange to most Nigerians, not because of his exploits in defending human rights like his father and mother, at least not in a court room. Falz as he is more commonly called is known for his hybrid bars. Somehow, the 27 year old artist has found a way in fine ingenuity to blend elitism with indigenousness.

After making an entry into the industry with his Wahzup Guy album which did quite a good job at introducing Falz’s style of music which he has since branded Wahzup music, Folarin established himself as a storyteller in subsequent tracks and ultimately his second studio album; Stories that Touch. Of course, mastering the art of storytelling is often a good thing for a rapper. Nothing says good rap than being able to organize the right words into a delicious rhythm to tell a good story. Sadly, as much as there are many who have been faithful apostles in this gospel, there have also been fake prophets; wannabes who have only insulted the art. However, Falz once again reestablishes himself as an old new kind of rapper as he brings back his peculiar style of storytelling in 27.

Released on the 27th October 2017, the day the rapper clocked 27 years of age, the 27 album came as a surprise to fans as the album was unannounced before release. This, as expected, leaves any true listener of Falz unsettled till every track on the album is scored. If his birthday was going to bring a surprise, it might as well have been a pleasant surprise.

However, the first seeming disjointedness arises from the name of the album and its content. An artist born on a 27th releasing an album with the name “27” on his 27th birthday is expected to somehow marry the art expressed in the album with its title, at least with some level of selfish storytelling. It is not wrong to expect that Falz in the course of the album gives some insight on why he chose that number which seems quite recurrent in his current circumstances, sadly this does not come in the 58 minutes that 27 occupies in any listener’s life even though the album opens with “Polished”, a track that reintroduces Falz’s alter egos and the artistic marriage that makes Folarin and Boda Taju one and the same. Falz promises his sophistication in both an English and Yoruba accent and switches between both with such convenience that might just once again certify him a master of his art from the very beginning of the album. He then goes on to even make it more interesting on La Fete as he adds French to the list of languages with which he tells his stories.

The first feature on the album comes next with Burna Boy coming on to deliver on the chorus of Alright; a romantic reassurance for two young lovers planning to elope. Unlike Burna however, Falz steps a little out of his comfort zone as he holds on to a part of the chorus. And somehow, the rapper tries not to get too outshined on the vocal expedition. Jeje then brings some groove with a gentle but danceable beat that gives Falz’s lyrics a fine home.

Falz however brings on his classical storytelling skills in Child of the World as he goes full throttle on the typical youthful narrative, specifically from the feminine perspective. The title of the song itself being indicated to have come from the Yoruba translation of the phrase; Omo Aye. Child of the World’s story is one condemnation, redemption and most importantly admonition. All of these Falz captures in 4 minutes and 25 seconds during which he speaks of untimely pregnancies, single parenting, child abuse, prostitution and a number of other pressing societal themes. Sir Dauda, the only featured act to appear twice on the album then comes on Boogie and delivers, reminding us in the process why rapping and singing are not the same. The Lamba song is another song that stands out on the album not so much for its lyrics but more for its production which is allegedly handled by Studio Magic. Well, the song most certainly carries some magic. Get Me stands at number 8 and Wande Coal reminds us of the age-long reality that being school smart is not being street smart, or as the Yoruba put it, eni t’omo way l’omowe in Way. I Do It is simply just another statement of the rapper’s and indeed most artistes’ reality. Something Light offers us something light with Ycee corroborating Falz’s comically serious rap style. Then we have Le Vrai Bahd Guy, My Money, and Confirm; which brings back Sir Dauda and somehow preaches integrity even in the hustle, building on the foundation already laid by Way.
Next takes on the collective effort of Maleek Berry and Medikal to round off the new tracks as Wehdone sir and Bahd, Baddo, Baddest close the album.

One would expect that an album with a title like 27 released on the rappers 27th birthday which is also a 27th should give any listener a peek into the artiste’s past 27 years, at least to some extent. And although Folarin Falana’s 17-track album almost absolutely does not comes close in this area, it tries to make up in the quality of its production and of course, Falz’s witty lyrics. It might not be too much of surprise to learn that 27 stands tall amongst the Nigerian Rap albums of the year 2017, even though there’s not a lot to actually compete with. With 27, Falz reminds us why his not using his Law degree is easily forgivable, the young artist is a good storyteller and if anything, the world can never have enough Storytellers. The question with 27 then remains; was that story really good enough?