Author: Mashood Lanrey Osho

Fellow Kwarans, I am compelled to proclaim that God Almighty indeed rewards individuals for their good deeds, as espoused in the Quran and Bible. It is written that God Almighty does not condone evil and has never claimed otherwise. Therefore, we must introspect and acknowledge that our actions have consequences. The notion that family lineage influences the character of children and grandchildren holds truth. Some families are renowned for their kindness and generosity, traits that are often emulated by their descendants. Consequently, we must strive to bequeath a legacy of excellence to future generations. This sentiment is embodied in the…

Fellow Kwarans, I am aware that supporters of Governor Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman will react negatively to this article. They will likely say, “Lanre Osho has come again,” as they usually do. As a seasoned columnist, I’ve grown accustomed preparing for backlash with every article I write. It’s an occupational hazard that comes with speaking truth to power. When my words don’t elicit a reaction or spark accusations of being an opposition agent or a governor critic, I take it as a sign that I’m not being objective enough. I recall a profound conversation with a highly respected Emir in Kwara North…

Fellow Kwarans, let’s face the truth, good governance isn’t rocket science. The secret to delivering on mandates lies in assembling a dream team of competent commissioners, and aides. With the right people in place, even the most stagnant systems can be transformed. But here’s the catch, a robust anti-corruption law is crucial to empower citizens to track government spending and have faith in their leaders. Without this, even the best intentions can go awry. Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq’s first-term appointments were, frankly, baffling. A newly graduated student as Commissioner of Youth Development? A former classroom teacher Commissioner of Education? A private…

Fellow Nigerians, I must be blunt and frank that 2024 was an exceptionally tough year for the majority of Nigerians and my fellow Kwarans. It was a year marked by widespread job losses, with people forced to sell their cars to feed their families. Many individuals with health challenges couldn’t afford basic drugs and medical bills. Inflation skyrocketed to historic highs, dashing the hopes of numerous Nigerians. This year will be etched in the memories of many Nigerians, and the primary cause of this misery was the subsidy removal implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This experience has reinforced my…

Fellow Nigerians, let us set aside politics for today and delve into my personal life. I’d like to share with you how God Almighty has blessed me in my own humble way. Life has taught me that humility, truthfulness, and kindness yield far greater rewards than pride and an insatiable pursuit of wealth. Born into a humble family, my upbringing was fraught with challenges, yet I’ve found that humility has opened doors to numerous opportunities. I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by supportive friends, colleagues, and associates who have stood by me through thick and thin. This is why…

Fellow Nigerian, I must confess that I am truly impressed with the conduct of Ghana’s recent election. It’s a testament to the fact that African countries are gradually awakening from their deep slumber. In a few years, Africa will no longer be ruled by oppressors. We’ve witnessed a significant shift in power dynamics in recent years, with events unfolding in Mali, Niger, Guinea, Burkina Faso, and even Seychelles, where a vibrant youth emerged as president. These developments demonstrate that African countries are indeed waking up, and citizens’ inclusiveness is sweeping across the continent. What particularly impressed me about Ghana’s election…

Fellow Nigerians, I must confess that my initial plan for this week’s column was to delve into the contentious tax reform bill, which has sparked intense debate among analysts, lawyers, lawmakers, and well-meaning Nigerians. Having thoroughly read the bill from start to finish, I had already penned over eight paragraphs analyzing its provisions and grey areas. However, I find myself preoccupied with the controversy surrounding Dele Farotimi and Afe Babalola, SAN. As an activist and public policy analyst, I am compelled to speak out against injustice, and this issue has caught my attention.The controversy surrounding Dele Farotimi and Afe Babalola,…

Fellow Kwarans, I must confess that our state is truly blessed. Kwara State boasts talented and educated individuals in various fields, but despite this, we haven’t reached our full potential. We’re sleeping deeply, and it’s high time we wake up before it’s too late. The alarming rates of poverty, unemployment, infrastructure deficit, insecurity, and hunger affecting our people indicate that governments at all levels haven’t done enough to drive the state forward. This bleak reality saddens my heart and fills me with concern for the state’s future. However, I firmly believe that there’s hope for Kwara State. My participation on…

Fellow Kwarans, I must confess that I’m compelled to write about every significant event that unfolds. As a columnist, it’s inherent in my nature to be eager to share my thoughts on societal happenings. Perhaps kwarans and Nigerians have a tendency to focus on trivial matters, but some issues demand attention and warrant a shift in our priorities toward progress. The recent appointment of Daniel Bwala as Special Adviser, Media and Public Communications to President Bola Tinubu has sparked intense debate . Twitter and other social media platforms are abuzz with criticisms, as many question why Bwala accepted the role…

Fellow Kwarans, I know this week’s column will resonate strongly with many, possibly stirring up controversy among government loyalists. However, I’m compelled to speak truth to power. The harsh reality is that the current economic hardships, frustration, uncertainty, and stress we’re experiencing in Nigeria and and Kwara State stem from a lack of effective economic policies to transform our lives. Ilu-le is a Yoruba phrase that resonates deeply with many Nigerians, expressing the sentiment that the country is facing hard times. This phrase has become a rallying cry, a way to acknowledge the struggles and hardships that many face in…