Soliu Owoyabu, Abeokuta
In a colourful event, the Ogun state chapter of Freelance and Independent Broadcasters’ Association of Nigeria (FIBAN) has on Tuesday 13th of February joined their counterparts across the globe to observe 2024 World Radio Day.
The event took place at Cinema Hall, Cultural Center, Kuto, Abeokuta, the state capital.
The guest Speaker, Former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambs. Sarafa Isola, while addressing the significance of radio, he highlighted its accessibility, especially in rural areas, underscoring its influence as a powerful medium for disseminating messages across Nigeria.
While addressing the mode of politics in the state, he said that money holds no sway in Ogun’s political landscape, asserting that the state’s sophistication prevents it from succumbing to financial inducements during elections, highlighted that history supports his claim, with the highest spenders consistently losing elections in the state.
Addressing concerns about vote buying, Isola emphasized Ogun State’s political consciousness and enlightenment, dismissing worries about monetary influences in elections.
He urged other states to emulate Ogun in fostering a politically aware populace.
Stressing the need for harmony in leadership transitions, Isola labeled it a joint responsibility between leaders and the people, advocating for peace as a catalyst for sustained development.
Isola, recognized with the Outstanding Nigerian Diplomat award by the Association .
In his keynote address, the Deputy Governor of Edo state, Comrade Phillips Shuaib who was represented by his chief of staff, Mr. Ebomiana Musa said Radio deserved to be celebrated and has come to stay.
He added that New Media has not in any way affected the importance of Radio due to it accessibility and mobility.
Also, ‘the Apena of Egba Land’, High Chief Alani Bankole urged the government to treat the traditional rulers well and put them in an appropriate position, saying that they are the owner of the people and very close to them.
He insisted that the government should allow the traditional rulers to take charge of the security architecture of the Nation.
Also in attendance were the wife of Ogun state governor, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, represented by the wife of Permanent Secretary of state Ministry of Health; The Akarigbo and Paramount ruler of Remo land, HRM Oba Babatunde Ajayi, the senator representing Ogun West at National Assembly, Sen. Olamilekan Adeola, represented by his media aide, Dr. Yemi Bamgbose; DIG Rtd, Babatunde Kokumo; Chairman Fresh FM Nigeria, Dr. Yinka Ayefele, represented by the Deputy GM Fresh FM Abeokuta, Mr. Adeyinka Adegbite; the Registrar of College of Broadcasting Abeokuta (COBAB) Mr. Fatahi Akinbola, Media Experts and others.