THE BATTLE IS OVER, THE GOOD WORK CONTINUES: ARCH. TOPE OGUNLEYE (RST) REJOICES WITH GOVERNOR OYEBANJI ON SUPREME COURT VICTORY.

THE BATTLE IS OVER, THE GOOD WORK CONTINUES: ARCH. TOPE OGUNLEYE (RST) REJOICES WITH GOVERNOR OYEBANJI ON SUPREME COURT VICTORY.

The Supreme Court's affirmation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election that produced Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has brought to a definitive close every legal contest arising from the party's nomination process. With this landmark judgment, the distractions of litigation have ended, and the path is now clear for the Governor to concentrate fully on delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Ekiti State.

Arch. Tope Ogunleye (RST) has heartily congratulated His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, on his triumph at the Supreme Court over the suit instituted by Olawumi Olajumoke challenging the APC primary election. He described the judgment as the final seal of legality on the Governor's emergence and a victory for democracy, the rule of law, and the collective interest of Ekiti State.

According to Arch. Ogunleye, the Supreme Court's decision has finally laid every controversy to rest, making it imperative for all well-meaning Ekiti sons and daughters to unite behind the Governor as he continues the remarkable strides of his second-term administration.

He noted that Governor Oyebanji has consistently demonstrated visionary leadership, humility, inclusiveness, and an unwavering commitment to the growth and development of Ekiti State. He expressed confidence that with the legal hurdles now behind him, the Governor will be even more focused on expanding infrastructure, improving education, healthcare, agriculture, youth empowerment, job creation, and economic prosperity across the state.

Arch. Ogunleye therefore appealed to the people of Ekiti, irrespective of political affiliation, to embrace peace, reconciliation, and unity of purpose. He urged citizens to continue supporting the Governor through constructive engagement and fervent prayers, stressing that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of cooperation and stability.

"The battle is over, and the good work continues. This is the time to close ranks and move Ekiti State forward together. Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has earned the opportunity to continue his people-centered administration without distraction. I call on all Ekiti people to continue supporting and praying for him as he serves our dear state with renewed dedication. Together, we shall build a stronger, more prosperous, and more united Ekiti," he stated.

Signed:

RST Media Team.

SUPREME COURT AFFIRMATION: A TRIUMPH OF DEMOCRACY AND THE WILL OF EKITI PEOPLE.

SUPREME COURT AFFIRMATION: A TRIUMPH OF DEMOCRACY AND THE WILL OF EKITI PEOPLE.

By Pharm Rachael Funmilayo Fagboyo.

The unanimous judgment of the Supreme Court of Nigeria on Friday, affirming His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji as the valid candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, for the June 20, 2026 Ekiti State Governorship Election, marks another defining moment in the democratic journey of our dear state.

This judgment is more than a legal victory. It is a victory for internal democracy, for the rule of law, and most importantly, for the collective will of APC members and the good people of Ekiti State who, on June 20, 2026 gave the Governor a resounding mandate.

From the High Court to the Court of Appeal, and now to the apex court, the judiciary has consistently upheld the integrity of the APC primaries that produced Governor Oyebanji.  By dismissing the appeal filed by Chief Abimbola Olawunmi, the Supreme Court has finally laid to rest all legal issues surrounding the Governor’s candidacy and has further strengthened the legitimacy of the mandate entrusted to him.

Fagboyo, in a statement made available to journalists on Friday after the apex court's verdict, described the judgment as a resounding affirmation of the overwhelming mandate freely given to Governor Oyebanji by the people of Ekiti State during the governorship election.

According to her, the supreme court’s decision has laid to rest every legal contest surrounding his candidacy and the election, paving the way for the Governor to remain focused on delivering more dividends of democracy to the people without distraction.

Fagboyo commended Oyebanji for his inclusive leadership style, people-oriented policies and remarkable developmental strides across critical sectors of the state, noting that his administration had continued to enjoy widespread acceptance because of its commitment to good governance, transparency and sustainable development.

She expressed confidence that the Governor would sustain the momentum of his administration's developmental agenda and continue to justify the confidence reposed in him by the people of the state.

The APC stalwart also urged political leaders, stakeholders and residents of Ekiti State, irrespective of party affiliation, to accept the judgment in good faith and embrace the spirit of unity for the collective progress of the state.

She said, "The Supreme Court has spoken, and its judgment represents the final expression of the law. This is a victory for democracy, the rule of law and, above all, the people of Ekiti State who freely entrusted Governor Oyebanji with the mandate to lead them.

"I appeal to all well-meaning Ekiti indigenes to put politics aside and support the Governor as he continues to pursue policies and programmes that will further enhance the growth, peace and prosperity of our dear state."

Fagboyo reaffirmed her commitment to the ideals of the All Progressives Congress and pledged her continued support for the Oyebanji's administration in his efforts to deliver inclusive governance and sustainable development across Ekiti State.

SUPREME COURT JUDGMENT AFFIRMS THE WILL OF EKITI PEOPLE — Ojuawo Congratulates Governor Oyebanji.

SUPREME COURT JUDGMENT AFFIRMS THE WILL OF EKITI PEOPLE — Ojuawo Congratulates Governor Oyebanji.

The Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I in the House of Representatives, Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo, has congratulated the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, following the Supreme Court judgment affirming his election as the duly elected Governor of the state.

In a statement issued after the verdict, Hon. Ojuawo described the judgment as a fitting affirmation of the overwhelming mandate freely given to Governor Oyebanji by the people of Ekiti State, noting that the ruling represents the final validation of the electorate's democratic choice. According to the lawmaker, the Supreme Court's decision brings the electoral process to a definitive and successful conclusion, while further strengthening public confidence in Nigeria's democratic institutions and the rule of law.

Hon. Ojuawo commended Governor Oyebanji for his inclusive style of governance, people-centred policies, and remarkable developmental achievements across the state, stressing that these have continued to earn him the trust, goodwill, and overwhelming support of Ekiti people. He called on all political leaders, stakeholders, and citizens, irrespective of political affiliation, to accept the judgment with maturity and good faith, put aside partisan interests, and join hands with the Governor in the shared task of building a more prosperous, peaceful, and progressive Ekiti State.

Hon. Ojuawo also prayed for God's continued wisdom, strength, good health, and divine guidance for Governor Oyebanji as he continues to provide purposeful leadership and deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of Ekiti.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

APC HAILS SUPREME COURT JUDGMENT AFFIRMING GOV. OYEBANJI AS VALID CANDIDATE, COMMENDS GOVERNOR’S HUMILITY AND MAGNANIMITY.

APC HAILS SUPREME COURT JUDGMENT AFFIRMING GOV. OYEBANJI AS VALID CANDIDATE, COMMENDS GOVERNOR’S HUMILITY AND MAGNANIMITY.

The All Progressives Congress, APC, Ekiti State Chapter has hailed the judgment of the Supreme Court affirming His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, as the valid candidate of the party for the June 20 governorship election.

In a statement signed by the State Publicity Secretary, Segun Dipe, the party described the judgment as a victory for internal democracy, the rule of law, and the collective will of APC members in Ekiti State.

The case, instituted by Ms Abimbola Olawunmi, challenged the outcome of the party’s governorship primaries that produced Governor Oyebanji as the candidate of APC. The matter went through the High Court and the Court of Appeal, both of which upheld BAO’s candidacy. The Supreme Court has now affirmed those decisions.

The APC said the judgment has finally laid to rest all legal issues surrounding the Governor’s candidacy and has further strengthened the legitimacy of the landslide mandate given to him by Ekiti people on June 20.

“We congratulate Governor Biodun Oyebanji on this judicial affirmation. More importantly, we commend him for his humility and magnanimity throughout this period. Despite winning the primaries, winning the election with a landslide, and now having the Supreme Court affirm it, he has remained focused, peaceful, and inclusive,” the party stated.

The APC noted that instead of distractions, the Governor chose governance. Instead of bitterness, he chose development. And instead of exclusion, he chose to carry all Ekiti people along.

“This is the BAO experiment in action. Power has not changed him. Victory has not made him arrogant. Litigation has not made him vindictive. That is why Ekiti people trust him,” the statement added.

The party called on all party members and stakeholders to see the judgment as a call to greater unity and to support the Governor as he continues to implement his agenda for shared prosperity.

The APC also thanked the judiciary for upholding justice and protecting democracy, and congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Working Committee for their support.

Signed,  

Segun Dipe

State Publicity Secretary

APC, Ekiti State

Ekiti Govt Lauds FG As NBC Mediates In Ekiti, Kwara Border Dispute.

Ekiti Govt Lauds FG As NBC Mediates In Ekiti, Kwara Border Dispute.

...says Oyebanji won't allow crisis degenerate to killings.

The Ekiti State Government has hailed the federal government over the National Boundary Commission (NBC) resolve to mediate in the lingering border dispute between Eda Oniyo Ekiti and Obbo-Ayegunle In Kwara State, describing the gesture as the best way to de-escalate tension and avert unwarranted carnages. 

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, who spoke at an Ekiti /Kwara joint meeting held to resolve the knotty boundary crisis between the two communities, assured that Governor Biodun Oyebanji would work relentlessly to ensure that the dispute doesn't strain the smooth relationship between the two states. 

Mrs Afuye, represented by the Permanent Secretary in her office, Mr. Leke Adefolaju, noted that the areas under contention were demarcated by Colonial Administration as boundary between the Northern and Southern Protectorates, saying the crisis stemmed from the planting of economic trees by Kwara farmers to areas that fall within Ekiti province.

Mrs Afuye, who acknowledged the pivotal role of agriculture in the economic survival of any country, said the government didn't expect the farmers to exhibit actions suggesting that they were the rightful owners of the occupied regions, despite seeing the features erected to demarcate the region, which she said could be a recipe for anarchy.

Mrs Afuye commended the states and the traditional institutions of the two communities for dousing tension and adopted diplomacy to tackle some of the raging crises, saying dialogue remains the most potent instrument that can be deployed to settle the tussle.

"I commend the NBC for its unwavering commitment to promoting peaceful boundary management across the federation. I also commend the government of Kwara State for embracing dialogue and cooperation. 

"The spirit of collaboration reflects our shared belief that no dispute is beyond resolution when parties are guided by sincerity, respect for the rule of law and commitment to national unity. 

"Governor Biodun Oyebanji remains committed to protecting the territorial integrity of Ekiti State while maintaining cordial relationship with neighbouring states. We shall continue to support every lawful initiative that promotes peaceful coexistence, justice and sustainable development in our border communities".

Similarly, the Kwara State Deputy Governor, Mr Kayode Alabi, represented by his Principal Private Secretary, Mr. Ayantola Malomo, urged the NBC not to rely on colonial documents alone, saying other existing archival documents with probative values should be out into considerations. 

Alabi said the Kwara won't oppose the idea of the two states reaching agreements and making concessions to resolve the matter, describing the two states as neighbours who should live together harmoniously and beneficially. 

The Director General of NBC, Surveyor Adamu Adaji, who presided over the interface, assured that all the technical issues, histories and the ambiguities in the features used for demarcation of the 70 kilometres stretch between the two states by the colonial masters will be considered to tackle the age-long crisis. 

In tackling the crisis, Adaji assured that the border areas between the two communities and up to Erinmope and Odo Owa axis will be demarcated properly to avert future land imbroglio that could throw the area into turmoil. 

"If you check properly, all the communities in these border areas are homogenous in culture, ethnicity and tradition. I urge them to continue to operate as brothers. We are all Nigerians. Nothing stops us from making concessions, so that we can live together happily".

Speaking during the technical session, the Surveyor General of Ekiti State, Surveyor Adebayo Faleto, disclosed that the two states had earlier met and resolved that the Legal Notice number 126 of 1954 should be used as reliable document to resolve the matter, but such idea was later jettisoned, which he said complicated the resolution. 

Faleto said the Colonial Administration provided substantial boundary features and insignia to demarcate the area, saying these will make the issue easier to resolve, with concessions being made from the two towns. 

In his submission, the Surveyor General Of Kwara State, Surveyor Abdullahi Haruna, said the deficiency in some of the documents tendered for resolution and the encroachments committed on both sides, had made the resolution of the matter more chaotic and unresolvable. 

Haruna advised the NBC to devise a new template that will be agreeable to the two states to tackle the perennial crisis. 

Contingents at the troubleshooting parley were: Chairmen of Local Governments from the two states, Chairman, Ekiti State Boundary Commission, Surveyor Kayode Olaosebikan, Eleda of Eda Oniyo, Oba Julius Awolola, President of Eda Oniyo Progressive Union, Dr. Rufus Ajayi, representatives of Obbo Ayegunle, led by Architect Ogun, representatives of Osi community in Kwara State, among others.

AAUA: Prof. Obamuyi Visits Traditional Rulers, Others, Seeks Support for Varsity.

AAUA: Prof. Obamuyi Visits Traditional Rulers, Others, Seeks Support for Varsity.

The Vice Chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, AAUA, Prof. Tomola Obamuyi, on Thursday, July 23, 2026 paid inaugural visits to the palaces of the Ajana of Afa Okeagbe, the Owa-Ale Adimula of Ikare-Akoko and the Secretariat of Akoko North-West Local Government Area in Okeagbe Akoko.

Prof. Obamuyi, accompanied by members of the University Management, used the occasion to seek support for the University.

The visit was part of the VC's mission to strengthen the University's relationship with key stakeholders and accelerate infrastructure development, while also fostering sustainable collaborations.

Speaking during the visits, Prof. Obamuyi explained that the engagements were designed to introduce the new University administration to influential leaders within the host communities while also exploring avenues for stronger partnerships that would support the continued growth and development of the Institution.

The VC said the University remains committed to building enduring relationships with government authorities, traditional institutions, and other stakeholders whose support would be invaluable in addressing its infrastructure needs and advancing AAUA's development agenda.

Prof. Obamuyi specifically appealed to the stakeholders to establish a lasting presence in the University by sponsoring building projects that would be named after them and their respective communities. He also urged the traditional rulers to rally their sons and daughters, as well as other well-meaning indigenes, to invest in the institution through the construction of buildings and other development projects.

Responding, the royal fathers expressed their support for the initiative and reaffirmed their commitment to the continued growth and sustainable development of Adekunle Ajasin University.

The Vice Chancellor and members of the University Management were received at the Akoko North-West Local Government Secretariat in Okeagbe Akoko by the Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Musa Olasehinde, who stood in for the Council Chairman, Hon. Esan Owolabi.

Speaking on behalf of the Council, Hon. Olasehinde assured the University Management of the Local Government's support, pledging to make the council's graders available for the use of the University as requested by the VC.

While at the palace of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Mofolorunso Adegboyega Samuel Arasanyin, Aroke Agba I, the Ajana of Afa Okeagbe, the VC appealed for the monarch's supports for building of landmark infrastructure by the Palace, the community and well-meaning sons and daughters of Okeagbe.

Receiving the delegation, the Ajana, who acceded to Prof. Obamuyi’s requests, commended the VC's outreach to traditional institutions, describing the visit as a commendable beginning. He noted that the gesture reinforced the positive reports the community had heard about the new University administration and assured the VC that the community would continue to support the institution and contribute meaningfully to its growth and development.

At the palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Adeleke Adefemi Adegbite Adedoyin II, the Owa-Ale Adimula of Ikare-Akoko, the VC’s request for the construction of buildings by the palace, the community and sons and daughters of the town received royal blessings.

The monarch reaffirmed Ikare-Akoko's staunch support for Adekunle Ajasin University, describing the institution as a collective heritage that deserves the commitment of its host communities. He assured Prof. Obamuyi that the sons and daughters of Ikare-Akoko would continue to contribute to the University's growth, particularly through the sponsorship and construction of legacy infrastructure projects.

The traditional rulers and government representatives commended Prof. Obamuyi for reaching out to critical stakeholders at the early stage of his administration, describing the initiative as a demonstration of inclusive leadership and a commitment to community-driven development.

Ekiti Women in Management (EKWIM) Charges Female Leaders on Executive Presence, Communication and Holistic Wellness.

Ekiti Women in Management (EKWIM) Charges Female Leaders on Executive Presence, Communication and Holistic Wellness.

The Ekiti State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, has urged female public servants to cultivate executive presence, effective communication skills, and holistic wellness as essential qualities for impactful leadership.

Mrs Babafemi gave the charge as the Guest Speaker at the Virtual Learning Session (VLS) organised by the Ekiti Women in Management (EKWIM) on the theme, "Command the Room: Mastering Executive Voice, Body Language and Influence."

Commending EKWIM for its commitment to empowering professional women through continuous learning and development, the Commissioner encouraged participants to maximise growth opportunities and invest in their career development. 

Mrs Babafemi said that leadership extends beyond technical and administrative competence, stressing that the ability to communicate with clarity, confidence and purpose is vital for career success. 

She highlighted key elements of executive presence, including effective voice projection, strategic use of silence, confident body language,  eye contact and the avoidance of filler words.

She also identified barriers that often limit women's leadership potential, such as imposter syndrome, cultural conditioning, fear of being misunderstood and inadequate preparation, emphasising that lasting influence is built on integrity, emotional intelligence, consistency and continuous self-development.

Responding to participants during the interactive session, the Commissioner underscored the importance of mental, intellectual and physical well-being, describing self-care as a necessity. Shthan a luxurye encouraged participants to cultivate healthy habits, remain lifelong learners, and deliberately pursue professional development. 

The session was hosted by the EKWIM Coordinator and Permanent Secretary, Cabinet and Special Services Department, Dr Oyeyemi Kayode Ojo, who emphasised the importance of effective communication in building confidence and enhancing productivity in the workplace.

EKWIM Secretary, Mrs Adetayo Adesola, introduced the guest speaker and encouraged members to continually develop their public speaking skills, while the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Mrs Olusola Gbenga-Igotun, delivered the vote of thanks. She described Mrs Babafemi as an accomplished public administrator and mentor whose insights would continue to inspire women in the public service. 

The virtual session attracted wide participation from female senior public officers across the Ekiti State Public Service, including Permanent Secretaries, Accounting Officers, and the State Statistician-General, Mrs Dolapo Dasola-Ojo.

The event ended with a renewed call for women leaders to build confidence through continuous practice, recognising that effective communication will not only enhance individual careers but will also strengthen institutions, improve governance and inspire emerging women leaders.