Ekiti Govt Issues Ebola Alert, Urges Residents to Report Suspected Cases.

Ekiti Govt Issues Ebola Alert, Urges Residents to Report Suspected Cases.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

The Ekiti State Government has issued a health advisory to residents following the confirmation of an Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, urging the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspected cases to health authorities.

The advisory, issued by the state Ministry of Health and Human Services on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, outlined preventive measures and emergency response procedures to guard against the possible spread of the disease.

According to the advisory, the Federal Government confirmed the case following laboratory tests conducted on a woman who reportedly arrived in Nigeria from Uganda on an international flight.

The patient was said to have received treatment at a private hospital in the FCT before the diagnosis was confirmed and was subsequently placed in isolation for medical care.

The ministry stated that the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention had commenced contact tracing, with 44 close contacts identified for monitoring, while surveillance and infection prevention measures had been strengthened.

To demonstrate the state's preparedness, the Ekiti Government said it had intensified public awareness campaigns through engagements with healthcare workers, community leaders, traditional rulers, faith-based organisations, civil society groups and media practitioners.

The state also disclosed that radio jingles had been produced and were being aired on two radio stations, while posters containing information on Ebola prevention had been distributed to members of the public.

Other preparedness measures include training laboratory personnel on the collection, handling and transportation of Ebola samples, strengthening disease surveillance at the state and local government levels, and inaugurating an Ebola Virus Disease Technical Working Group.

The ministry added that an emergency meeting of the technical working group was held on October 13 to assess the state's level of preparedness and accelerate response activities.

It further stated that airport officials and environmental health officers had received orientation on passenger screening and triage at airports and other points of entry.

According to the advisory, healthcare workers had also undergone training in Ebola case management and infection prevention and control, while a functional simulation exercise had been conducted at the treatment centre at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti.

The state government added that members of the state burial team had been trained in safe and dignified burial procedures, while protective equipment, including gloves, face masks and laboratory consumables, had been procured and stockpiled.

Explaining how the disease spreads, the ministry said Ebola could be transmitted through direct contact with the blood or other body fluids of an infected person, the body of someone who had died from the disease, or contaminated materials.

It noted that an infected person could not transmit the disease before symptoms appeared.

Residents were advised to watch out for symptoms such as sudden fever, severe weakness, headache, vomiting, diarrhoea and unexplained bleeding, particularly among individuals with a travel history to countries affected by Ebola.

The ministry urged residents to practise regular hand hygiene, avoid contact with the body fluids of suspected cases and immediately report possible exposure to public health authorities.

It also advised anyone who developed symptoms after possible exposure to avoid close contact with others and contact health authorities for guidance before visiting a healthcare facility.

The government further urged residents to cooperate with public health officials conducting contact tracing and to avoid spreading unverified information or stigmatising individuals who might be suspected of having the disease.

Reassuring the public, the ministry recalled Nigeria's successful containment of the 2014 Ebola outbreak, expressing confidence in the country's public health response systems while emphasising the need for vigilance and collective responsibility.

The advisory reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji to protecting healthcare workers, patients and the general public through preparedness, early detection and prompt response.

Residents who notice anyone exhibiting symptoms suggestive of Ebola, particularly those with a travel history to an affected country or Abuja, were advised to report to the nearest general hospital or call 07049204288, 08160193629 or 07049204334 for assistance.

Ajijola Charges Ekiti APC, Electorates to Deliver Record Votes for Tinubu.

Ajijola Charges Ekiti APC, Electorates to Deliver Record Votes for Tinubu.

An All Progressives Congress chieftain and Executive Director of the South West Development Commission, Chief Lateef Ajijola, has charged APC faithful and the electorate in Ekiti State to mobilise massive support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure an unprecedented number of votes for him.

Ajijola, popularly known as Always Standing, made the call while speaking with journalists in Ado Ekiti, stressing the need for unity, commitment and effective grassroots mobilisation to strengthen the party's support base across the state.

He urged APC leaders, members and supporters to intensify their engagement with residents and eligible voters, noting that collective efforts would be crucial to securing an overwhelming electoral victory for the President.

The APC chieftain emphasised the importance of communicating the policies and programmes of the Tinubu administration to the grassroots, encouraging party members to educate the electorate on the administration's achievements and ongoing initiatives.

He also called on party stakeholders at the ward, local government and state levels to work together, strengthen the party's structures and sustain peaceful engagement with the electorate ahead of future elections.

Ajijola stressed that delivering unprecedented votes for Tinubu would require the cooperation of party faithful and the active participation of supporters across Ekiti State.

He expressed confidence in the APC's ability to record an impressive electoral performance, urging members to remain steadfast, united and committed to the party's success.

The APC chieftain reiterated that sustained grassroots mobilisation, effective communication and cooperation among party stakeholders would be vital to achieving the desired electoral outcome for President Tinubu.

Isan-Ekiti Rejoices as Senator Cyril Fasuyi Lays Foundation for Youth ICT Centre.

Isan-Ekiti Rejoices as Senator Cyril Fasuyi Lays Foundation for Youth ICT Centre.

Hope filled the air in Isan-Ekiti on Tuesday as Senator Cyril Fasuyi laid the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art Youth Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Centre, a landmark project designed to equip young people with essential digital skills for the modern economy.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on the site opposite Command Secondary School, drew an enthusiastic crowd of residents, community leaders, and local youths.

Distinguished guests in attendance included the Onisan of Isan Kingdom, Oba Gabriel Adejuwon; Hon. Kemisola Olaleye; Mr. Mufu Apata; Hon. Awoyemi Reuben; Mr. Goke Adetiloye; and Reverend Ogoji, who offered opening prayers and spiritual remarks.

Speaking at the event, the Onisan of Isan Kingdom, Oba Gabriel Adejuwon, expressed deep appreciation for the intervention, describing it as a legacy project of lasting value for the community's youth. The monarch assured the senator that the people of Isan would reciprocate his kindness through their continued support and votes.

Local residents echoed the monarch's sentiments, hailing the initiative as a timely investment in the future of the younger generation. Many noted that a leader who prioritizes youth development demonstrates a genuine commitment to national progress.

Beyond the ICT centre, community members commended Senator Fasuyi for a broad range of developmental projects he has attracted to Isan-Ekiti and the wider senatorial district. They praised the initiative as evidence of visionary representation—one that directly connects young people to technology, training, and global opportunities.

Several attendees also called on the community to support continuity by backing the senator for a second term, emphasizing that sustained leadership is vital to completing and expanding ongoing developmental projects in the region.

GOV OYEBANJI NAMES ATERE, FATUKASI, MAKINDE, AKINGBOLU TAs, DG.

GOV OYEBANJI NAMES ATERE, FATUKASI, MAKINDE, AKINGBOLU TAs, DG.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the appointment of four 

officials to serve in key positons in the State’s power and road infrastructure as well as the transportation sectors.

The appointees are: 

1. Engr. Philip Atere – Technical Advisor (Power infrastructure) 

2. Engr. Tope Fatukasi- Technical Advisor (Road infrastructure) 

3. AVM Sunday Makinde (rtd)- Technical Advisor (Airport)

4. Barrister Tajudeen Akingbolu - Director -General, Ekiti State Transport Agency.

The appointments, which take immediate effect, are informed by the strategic importance of the respective agencies to the administration’s development agenda.

This development is contained in a statement issued and signed by Olayinka Oyebode

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor on Tuesday. 

GOV OYEBANJI MOURNS AFENIFERE LEADER, FASORANTI.

GOV OYEBANJI MOURNS AFENIFERE LEADER, FASORANTI.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed deep condolences over the death of respected elder statesman and Afenifere leader, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 100.

The Governor described his death as a monumental loss to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria, extending his condolences to Afenifere, the people of Ondo State, prominent Yoruba leaders, and the deceased’s family and associates.

In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Yinka Oyebode, Governor Oyebanji described Pa Fasoranti as a patriot whose life was marked by selfless service, integrity and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of the Yoruba people and Nigeria.

He said the late Afenifere leader would be remembered for his courage, loyalty and principled stand on truth, justice and the rule of law.

The Governor noted that Pa Fasoranti remained committed to justice, equity, good governance and restructuring throughout his life, adding that his contributions to national affairs reflected his desire for a united, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

He said the deceased’s legacy would endure through the values he upheld, the causes he championed and the generations inspired by his commitment to democracy and national development.

Governor Oyebanji urged the children and other family members to be consoled with the fact their  father lived a  remarkable life of service,  and his enduring contributions to society would remain indelible. 

“On behalf of the Government and the good people of Ekiti State, I express my heartfelt condolences to the family of our departed leader, Pa Fasoranti. I pray that God will grant Baba eternal rest and give his children and the entire family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” the statement added.

OYEBANJI SWEARS IN SSG, CHIEF OF STAFF, TASKS THEM ON EXCELLENT SERVICE DELIVERY.

OYEBANJI SWEARS IN SSG, CHIEF OF STAFF, TASKS THEM ON EXCELLENT SERVICE DELIVERY.

…Says reappointment means greater responsibility, less tolerance for lapses.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, on Tuesday swore in the reappointed Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, and Chief of Staff, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo, charging them to deploy the wealth of experience they acquired during the first term of his administration to deliver on their responsibilities without delay.

The Governor declared that his second-term administration would not tolerate anything short of excellent service delivery, noting that the reappointment of the two officials placed greater responsibilities on them to serve the government and the people of Ekiti State.

At the brief swearing-in ceremony held at the Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office in Ado-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji clarified the nature of the two offices, explaining that while stakeholders could nominate commissioners and special advisers, the SSG and Chief of Staff were his personal choices and closest administrative aides.

He commended the two officials for their loyalty, dedication and contributions to the administration, describing them as steady hands who had served creditably as foundation appointees since he assumed office four years ago.

The Governor stressed that their reappointment was a call to greater service and higher responsibility, urging them to hit the ground running and demonstrate renewed humility, commitment and dedication to duty.

Govenror Oyebanji cautioned them against becoming complacent, overconfident or too comfortable in their positions, emphasising that the demands of the second term required a higher level of diligence, discipline and accountability.

Governor Oyebanji also noted that the two officials would face considerable pressure in the coming weeks as they would be expected to multitask and provide administrative support to cover existing vacancies in government pending the constitution of the full cabinet.

The Governor reminded them that their appointments were made possible by the mandate freely given to the administration by the people of Ekiti State, urging them to remain accessible, respectful and compassionate in their dealings with citizens.

“Treat our people with courtesy; be compassionate, humble, fair and God-fearing. It is their votes that brought us here. So, by extension, they are our employer.

“They put us into this job. We cannot get to office and assume to be lords over them,” he said.

While congratulating the appointees, their friends and family members present at the ceremony, the Governor urged them to continue to pray for the success of the administration.

He described their reappointment as evidence that good performance attracts greater responsibility, while acknowledging that there were areas in need of improvement during the first term.

“This reappointment is, therefore, proof that the reward for good work is more work. But I will be dishonest if I do not acknowledge that there were areas in need of improvement.

“You, therefore, have no reason to grope around. The burden that comes with this, however, is that I will be less tolerant of lapses than I was in the first administration because you cannot claim inexperience again,” the Governor said.

Speaking on behalf of the duo, Prof. Adubiaro expressed profound gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for the confidence reposed in them, commending his compassionate leadership, humility and unwavering support throughout her public service and academic career.

She also lauded the Governor for what she described as an unbroken record of good governance in Ekiti State, noting that the developmental strides recorded during his first term had earned him widespread respect across different segments of society and laid the foundation for continuity and further progress.

The SSG pledged the renewed commitment of the two appointees to the service of the state, assuring the Governor that they would not take their reappointments for granted but would redouble their efforts to justify the confidence reposed in them.

Fayemi Mourns Uduaghan, Patrick Dele Cole, Says Nigeria Has Lost Distinguished Public Servants.

Fayemi Mourns Uduaghan, Patrick Dele Cole, Says Nigeria Has Lost Distinguished Public Servants.

Dr Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State and past Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of former Governor of Delta State, Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan, and elder statesman and distinguished public figure, Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole, describing their passing as a profound loss to their families, their respective communities and the country.

Fayemi said both men, though distinguished by different professional paths and public engagements, made significant contributions to Nigeria’s political, social and intellectual development, leaving behind legacies that would continue to shape public life and inspire future generations.

He described Uduaghan as a public servant whose years in government reflected a commitment to the development of Delta State and the advancement of its people. As governor, Uduaghan played an important role in the state’s political and developmental journey, with his administration focused on healthcare, infrastructure, human capital development and the management of the complex social and economic challenges of the Niger Delta.

Fayemi noted that Uduaghan’s experience in public service, including his background in medicine and his years in political leadership, gave him a clear perspective on governance and the responsibilities of public office.

He said Uduaghan’s death was a reminder of the importance of public service and the enduring responsibility of leaders to improve the lives of the people they serve.

On the passing of Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole, Fayemi described the late elder statesman as a man of considerable intellect, experience and influence whose contributions to Nigeria’s public life, diplomacy, journalism and national discourse earned him a place among the country’s distinguished voices.

He noted that Cole represented a generation of Nigerians whose professional accomplishments and engagement with national affairs enriched public debate and contributed to the development of institutions and ideas essential to nation-building.

Fayemi said Cole’s wealth of experience, knowledge, and commitment to public affairs would be greatly missed, especially at a time when Nigeria needs the wisdom, perspective, and counsel of experienced statesmen.

“Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan and Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole served Nigeria in different capacities, but they shared a commitment to making their contributions to the society in which they lived. Their passing is a painful reminder that the nation continues to lose men whose experience, service and perspectives remain valuable to our collective progress,” Fayemi said.

He added that while their deaths had created painful voids in their families and communities, the legacies of their respective contributions would endure through the people they served, the institutions they helped shape and the example they set.

Fayemi extended his heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, associates and political colleagues of both deceased men, as well as the governments and people of Delta and Rivers states, and the wider Nigerian community.

He urged their families to find strength in the knowledge that their loved ones lived lives of consequence and made contributions that would be remembered beyond their lifetimes.

“On behalf of my family, I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan and Ambassador Patrick Dele Cole. I pray that God grants them the fortitude to bear these painful losses, comforts all who mourn them and gives those they have left behind the strength and wisdom to carry forward the worthy aspects of their legacies,” he said.