Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has announced a logo crafting competition to be held from April 19th to 26th.
In July 2023, the Osun State House of Assembly repealed the state Anthem, Crest, and Flag Law of 2012, replacing it with a new law empowering the executive to create a new logo for the state.
Adeleke recently signed a bill approving a new logo for the state, but the design, released on social media, faced criticism.
Addressing the public’s concerns, Adeleke stated, “As a leader who listens to the people, I have decided to open up the logo design process to more public input through this one-week competition.”
An opposition party in Osun State, the Allied Peoples Movement, criticized the new logo, labeling it as a misuse of taxpayers’ money.
The state chapter of the New Nigeria Peoples Party also expressed disappointment, stating that the new logo did not meet the expected standards.
In a statement signed by the party’s chairman, Dr. Tosin Odeyemi, the NNPP questioned whether the governor had reviewed the design before endorsing the bill.
The statement read, “The new logo is an embarrassment to us in Osun. Who was awarded the contract? Did Governor Adeleke review the design before approving the bill? With the abundance of technologically savvy youth in Osun, how could the state unveil such a poorly designed logo? The public backlash towards Osun on social media since the unveiling is evident.
“What happened to the original logo used since the establishment of Osun State? We criticized the new logo created by the administration of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, which replaced the existing one. However, the current logo is even more inferior compared to what Aregbesola introduced.
“For those in the government willing to listen, immediate action is required. The logo should be withdrawn to prevent further criticism of Osun.”
Meanwhile, the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, announced that the logo crafting competition would take place from April 19th to 26th.
“Participants are required to consider the prototype logo in terms of content and style when submitting their designs in person, either digitally or in print, to the Office of the Commissioner, Ministry of Information and Public Enlightenment.
“Design submissions can also be made online via [email protected] or [email protected], providing the designer’s bio-data and contact information. The subject line should read “OSUN STATE LOGO.” The winning design will be announced on April 28 and unveiled on April 30 during the new edition of Ipade Imole. The top three designers will be recognized and rewarded,” said Rasheed.