Requests have been made by the Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, for new logo designs representing Osun State.
Submissions are open from today until Friday, April 26.
This decision was made in response to public and opposition concerns regarding the initially released design on the state government’s social media platform.
Back in July 2023, the Osun State House of Assembly repealed the existing state Anthem, Crest, and Flag Law of 2012, replacing it with a new regulation allowing the executive branch to create a new logo for the state.
Governor Adeleke had initially endorsed a bill adopting the new logo; however, it was met with criticism.
The opposition party in Osun State, Allied Peoples Movement, criticized the new logo as a misuse of taxpayer money.
Similarly, the Osun State chapter of the New Nigeria People’s Party expressed disappointment, stating the new logo did not meet expectations.
In a statement issued by NNPP’s state chairman, Dr. Tosin Odeyemi, in Osogbo on Thursday, questions were raised about whether the governor had reviewed the new design before approving the bill.
“The new logo is an embarrassment to Osun. Who was responsible for the design? Did Governor Adeleke assess it before signing the bill? Given the abundance of talented youth in Osun capable of designing quality logos, how did the state government unveil such a substandard logo? Osun has been ridiculed on social media since the unveiling.
“What happened to the original logo used since Osun State’s inception? We all opposed it when Rauf Aregbesola’s administration introduced a new logo and abandoned the previous one. Nevertheless, the current design is even worse compared to Aregbesola’s version.
“A decisive action is required by those in power. The logo ought to be withdrawn from the public to prevent further criticism of Osun State.”
However, the governor announced that more logo entries would be accepted for consideration.
In a statement by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, on Thursday, it was revealed that a logo design competition would be held from April 19 to April 26.
“As a responsive leader, I am expanding the logo selection process to include more public contributions, through this one-week competition,” the statement said.
The statement went on to say: “Designers should consider the prototype logo’s content and style when submitting their designs. Entries can be submitted in person, either in soft or printed copy, to the Office of the Commissioner, Ministry of Information and Public Enlightenment.
“The winning design will be announced on April 28 and unveiled on April 30 during the new Ipade Imole edition. The top three designers will be recognized and rewarded.”