Ekiti SDP rallies members support for Gov. Oyebanji ahead Saturday’s election.

Ekiti SDP rallies members support for Gov. Oyebanji ahead Saturday’s election.

Barely five days to Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti State, the leadership of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the State has announced plans to align its structure with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and work for the re-election of Governor Biodun Oyebanji saying they don’t want to be left behind in the success story of the Governor on Saturday.

The leaders of the party, comprising some national committee and state working committee members disclosed this at a meeting with Governor Oyebanji in Ado- Ekiti on Monday. They said that their solidarity with the Governor was not about party affiliation but about supporting a performing governor for a second term in order to continue with the good work of developing Ekiti state to an enviable height. 

Speaking on behalf of the SDP leaders at the meeting held at the Governor’s office, held at the Governor’s office, the State Chairman, Mr Ayodele Bamikole and Deputy National Women leader, Mrs Ariyike Ilesanmi affirmed their belief in the leadership style of Governor Oyebanji that has brought remarkable development to all the sectors of the state economy.

Describing SDP as one of the most formidable political parties in the state, the leaders said their decision to work for Governor Oyebanji has the backing of  the party’s national chairman,  Shehu Musa Gabbam,  adding that they have traversed the 16 local government areas to mobilized and encourage their members on the need to vote for the Governor Oyebanji.

Governor Oyebanji, in his response, thanked the SDP leadership for their decision to support his candidacy ahead of Saturday’s election and for their confidence in his leadership and governing style.

He promised to do his best to ensure that Ekiti people, irrespective of political affiliation, continue to reap the dividends of democracy, adding that his second term will bring greater level of development in the state.

He stated further that the stance of the SDP to support him with their votes, coming barely two weeks after the candidate of the APM in the state, announced his decision to work with APC shows that some of the opposition parties are more interested in the Ekiti project which requires the cooperation and collaboration of all well meaning Ekiti sons and daughters regardless of political affiliation.

 “The  basic thing is the need to keep Ekiti moving forward, because what has brought you here today is not about yourself, it's about the need to keep a government that is delivering in office even at the expense of your own interest, that is commitment.

“If a government is delivering on its promises to the people, the state is peaceful, there's development all over the state, there's no point changing a winning team but you can be part of that winning team. The election is Saturday, you are here today to identify with us because you understand the concept of time and season. We apprecuate your supper and we will not take it for granted.”, he added. 

Also at the meeting were the Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun. Deputy Director, campaign council (North), Mrs Kemi Olaleye, Speciak Advuser to the Governornon Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode; Project Coordinator of RAAMP, Mr Adumo, Director General, Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso-Omotoso.

Ekiti LG Workers reaffirm plan to mobilize 200,000 votes for Gov. Oyebanji.

Ekiti LG Workers reaffirm plan to mobilize  200,000 votes for Gov. Oyebanji.

Ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti state, workers in Ekiti local government service have reassured Governor  Biodun Oyebanji of their support in the forthcoming election to deliver no fewer than 200,000 votes at the poll.

The workers under the aegis of Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) reststed their position at the grand finale of Ekiti state Local Government mega rally in support of the re-election of the governor in Ado- Ekiti on Monday. They vowed to  mobilize themselves and members of their households to vote massively for the governor’s re- election.

The President of NULGE in Ekiti state, Mr Oluseyi Olatunde, who spoke on behalf of the local government workers  commended the governor for delivering the needed change which has repositioned local government administration in the state by ensuring  conducive working environment for them.

The NULGE President also stressed that the single act of the governor has restored pride and efficiency to the body responsible for managing the career of thousands of local government workers by  strengthening their leadership and career progression. 

The NULGE president also maintained that the appointment of six staff of local government as Permanent Secretary and others as Executive Secretary positions has opened the frontiers of leadership and new hope for members demonstrating that competence and dedication would always be rewarded by his administration. 

In his response, Governor Oyebanji thanked the entire local government staff from the 16 local government areas for reaffirming their commitment to his administration as well as their determination to ensure the return of his government for a second term in office. 

Governor Oyebanji, who accepted the offer of the grand patron of NULGE in Ekiti state, said he believes strongly that the state is lucky with the quality of the staff at the local government level judging from the level of development that is taking place in all the local governments as he promised to continue to provide necessary impetus for them to thrive in the discharge of their duties.

“You know one thing is that whatever might have been our achievements in the last three years and seven months, you know you can do more because the problem we have solved in the local government during our first term, we are not coming back to those problems in our second term, we will do more.

“Let me, on behalf of myself, my darling wife, and the government that we are leading, express my profound appreciation to NULGE, from day one that you made up your mind that you are going to support us, you have never wavered. I'm extremely grateful to you, and it's not that we have done everything for you, but you see the sincerity in our hearts, you see how committed we are to serving our people, and you are ready to make adjustments. 

“You know, I'm extremely grateful to you. I listened to the NULGE president very well, and he said something that is my summary of why we are here today, he said, local government workers are ready to deliver on Saturday, that is my takeaway and I know that, as he have said it, everyone has heard, and so shall you be.

“Let me say this, everything we have achieved in the last close to four years, after God almighty, the glory goes to Mr President who has provided the enabling environment and the resources for all the sub-nationals.”  He added 

The National President of NULGE, Comrade Aliyu Haruna Kankara described Governor Oyebanji as a visionary leader who was well prepared for the leadership position he found himself.

The National President, who was represented by the Vice President (Southwest) Comrade Rufus Babalola said he was happy to identify with the Governor’s unprecedented achievements within a spate of less than four years traversing all sectors and most especially in local government service.

He also commended him for his commitment to the development of local government systems and prioritizing the welfare of the workers.

Also present at the rally were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Chairman, Local Government Service Commission, Chief Alaba Bejide, ALGON Chairman, Chief Oluwasegun Ojo, NLC Chairman, Comrade Kolapo Olusola and array of local government leadership and staff.

HOW TINUBU MADE GOVERNANCE EASIER FOR ME- OYEBANJI.

HOW TINUBU MADE GOVERNANCE EASIER FOR ME- OYEBANJI.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji at the weekend said he owes President Bola Tinubu a debt of gratitude for making governance easier for him, as well as other governors. 

Speaking in Ado- Ekiti at an interactive session with journalists, Oyebanji narrated how his administration had struggled for almost six months to attend to the State's wage bill and capital projects until the emergence of Tinubu as president.

The Governor stated that the various interventionist programmes of the President made more resources available to all States including Ekiti State; enabling his administration to implement its shared prosperity agenda with ease. 

At the interactive session which was attended by heads of media outfits in the state, and journalists across from the print, electronics and digital media, Oyebanji said the ongoing construction works on three of the federal roads linking the State have eased up pressure from citizens who have been calling on his government to fix the roads.

He said the cost of award of the recently approved concrete pavement on Ado-Itawure road is higher than the State's budget for 2023; noting that without the president's intervention on the road, there was no way the State could have embarked on its construction.

"I became Governor six months before the inauguration of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu as president. In those six months, I had sleepless nights thinking about how to meet the wage bill and also implement the shared prosperity agenda. We have completed the airport now. Our focus is on roads. Thanks to the President, Ado-Akure road is almost done. He has also awarded Ado-Itawure road. The value of that contract is bigger than our budget for two years. If not for the president that cares, there is no way we could have done those roads", he said.

The governor stated that the increased allocation from the Federal Government has enabled his administration to increase subvention to the State's tertiary institutions three times and meet the demands of the labour force, thereby fostering industrial harmony in the State.

Speaking further, Governor Oyebanji said his administration has paid over 85 Billion Naira in gratuities and pension since his administration came on board in 2022.

He asserted that the endorsement of his administration by Ekiti people has been largely as a result of the sterling performance of his administration which is being facilitated by Tinubu's presidency.

He also thanked the media in the state for being professional in the discharge of their duties/ enlightening the public and holding the government accountable when necessary. 

While urging Ekiti people to support Tinubu's re-election, Oyebanji said the president is repositioning Nigeria on the path of greatness and should be given the benefits of the doubts.

"The president deserves commendations. It is not possible to make omelette without breaking eggs. The progress and stability that he has brought to the economy and everything, it takes someone who has courage and confidence  to do it. He is trying to fix things that have gone wrong in the last 30 years. If someone is sick and you give him an injection, does he get well instantly? Mr President deserves our support and understanding. I have sat with him many times and I can see that he has clarity of intention and how to put the country on the right footing", Oyebanji said.

We’ll Mobilise Massively for Your Re-election, Ekiti Muslim Women Assure Oyebanji.

We’ll Mobilise Massively for Your Re-election, Ekiti Muslim Women Assure Oyebanji.

Muslim women across the 16 local government areas in Ekiti State under the aegis of  Federation of Muslim Women’s Association in Nigeria (FOMWAN), Ekiti State Chapter, have assured Governor Biodun Oyebanji of their massive support ahead of Saturday’s governorship election, declaring that his administration has significantly improved their fortunes through inclusive governance and people-oriented policies. 

The Muslim women gave the assurance on Sunday during an engagement with Governor Oyebanji at the Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado Ekiti, where they commended the Governor for his commitment to the welfare of Muslim women as well as  religious harmony in the state.

Speaking on behalf of the Muslim Women, the Amira of FOMWAN, Alhaja Aisat Oluwatoyin Jimoh, said the Governor’s leadership has inspired confidence among Muslims across the State and strengthened their participation in governance, adding that Governor Oyebanji is the first in the history of the state to appoint over 50 Muslims into his cabinet.

While also commending the Governor for fostering unity among religious groups and creating an enabling environment for peace and development in the state, the FOMWAN Amira said Muslim women across the state have resolve to mobilize massively for the Governor’s re-election as a way of appreciating him.

Also in his remarks, the Secretary to the State Government, who is also a member of FOMWAN, Prof Habibat Adubiaro, expressed appreciation to Governor Oyebanji for his inclusive leadership as well numerous opportunities his administration has provided for Muslim faithful in the state. He noted that the Muslim community has never had it so good under any administration and assured the Governor that Ekiti Muslims are appreciative of his goodwill and would reciprocate his support and kindness by mobilising and voting massively for his re-election

In his remarks, Governor Oyebanji, who appreciated the Muslim women for their support for his administration, assured them that his administration remains committed to inclusive governance and delivery of more dividends of democracy to all residents of Ekiti State inrespective of religion or political affiliation.

Describing their support and prayers as source of encouragement to continue serving the people with greater dedication and sincerity, the Governor also promised that his government will not relent in implementing policies and programes that promote the welfare of Ekiti people.

Governor Oyebanji further urged Ekiti people to remain peaceful, united and law-abiding before, during and after the election, stressing that the interest of the state should always come above personal or political gains.

“Last week, I went to see our fathers not to solicit for vote but to appreciate them, today I am not here to solicit for your vote because I have no doubt that you will vote for me. Four years ago when I needed your vote I came to you and I don’t wan to take you for granted now. So I just want to appreciate you for your genuine love, no government has ever enjoyed this kind of support.

“Please, the election is coming, let us be at peace with everybody, we are one in Ekiti and is only a bad thing that people will not compete for but what I know is that it's only God that gives position and I know that your prayers has been answered. So let us maintain peace with everybody, election will come and go but Ekiti will remain”. The Governor asserted.

Ekiti APC Leaders Caution Members Against Complacency Ahead Governorship Election.

Ekiti APC Leaders Caution Members Against Complacency Ahead Governorship Election.

Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State have cautioned members and supporters of the party against complacency ahead of tye a June 20 governorship election, urging them to remain steadfast and intensify grassroots mobilization to secure victory for the party.

The Leaders gave the charge on Saturday during a meeting of leaders and stakeholders of the party held at the residence of the first civilian Governor of Ekiti State,  Otunba Niyi Adebayo, in Iyin Ekiti.

Addressing the party leaders and stakeholders at the meeting, former Governor Adebayo said the widespread belief that the party had already won the election should not make members relax, stressing that victory could only be guaranteed through hard work, commitment and effective mobilization across the state.

He urged party leaders and members to return to their respective communities and wards and carry out the responsibilities expected of them, insisting that there is enormous work to be done to ensure APC emerge victorious at the polls. 

 Expressing confidence in the performance of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, former Governor Adebayo described him as a good product who has delivered excellent governance to the people of Ekiti State. He therefore charged members to return home and work tirelessly to deliver overwhelming victory for the APC in the forthcoming governorship election.

Also in his remarks, Chairman of the APC Campaign Council and Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele thanked the leadership of the party for the confidence reposed in him to coordinate the council. He urged party faithful not to approach the election with fear but with excitement and confidence.

While expressing confidence that Governor Biodun Oyebanji enjoys widespread acceptance in the State, the Senate Leader cautioned party faithful against taking anything for granted, charging them to reach out to actual voters and work diligently to secure victory for the APC.

In his remarks, Governor Oyebanji  expressed his appreciation to the leaders and members of the party for their commitment, sacrifice and relentless efforts towards the success of the election. He charged them to sustain the momentum and continue working tirelessly at the grassroots, stressing that only hard work would guarantee the overwhelming victory the party seeks in Saturday’s governorship election.

Explaining why the election is so crucial to the state and the party, the Governor said it is the best way to appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and goodwill to Ekiti state

The Governor said he is confident that the APC would record a resounding victory at the governorship election, urging members of his party to embrace and accommodate everyone willing to contribute to the party’s success irrespective of their political affiliation.

The Governor said “let me just add to what has been said by our leaders and explain why June 20 election is extremely critical to us as a people and why it is also critical to APC and to the President. On June 20, what we are sending to the whole world is that in the southwest, we have a President that is loved by his zone, I don’t know if it is by accident or coincidence that the two elections that precede the presidential election will take place in the southwest, so other part of the country are looking at what will happen in the southwest.

“So, whoever wants to help us, let us embrace them and let us work together because that is the only way we can make the 500,000 votes target. Election is by numbers and what has been happening in Ekiti in the last one week points to the fact that our people are ready for the election”. The Governor asserted.

Also present at the meeting were, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye, members of the National and State Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, Former Deputy Governors, Local Government Chairmen and other stakeholders in the party.

VICE PRESIDENT SHETTIMA, APC GOVERNORS, NATIONAL LEADERS, THOUSANDS OF SUPPORTERS TO CONVERGE IN EKITI FOR OYEBANJI'S GRAND FINALE MEGA RALLY.

VICE PRESIDENT SHETTIMA, APC GOVERNORS, NATIONAL LEADERS, THOUSANDS OF SUPPORTERS TO CONVERGE IN EKITI FOR OYEBANJI'S GRAND FINALE MEGA RALLY.

Nigeria's Vice President, Kashim Shettima, governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), national leaders of the party, members of the National Assembly, ministers, and thousands of enthusiastic supporters from within and outside Ekiti State are expected to converge on Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, for the Grand Finale Mega Rally in support of the re-election of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and his Deputy, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Christianah Afuye.

The rally, scheduled to hold at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, New Iyin Road, Ado-Ekiti, beginning at 11:00 a.m., marks the climax of an unprecedented grassroots campaign that has traversed every ward, community, and local government area of the state. 

It is expected to be one of the largest political gatherings ever witnessed in Ekiti State and a resounding demonstration of the people's overwhelming support for Governor Oyebanji's second-term bid.

Coming on the heels of massive endorsements by traditional rulers, professional groups, market associations, artisans, youths, women, civil servants, retirees, religious leaders, and political stakeholders across party lines, the mega rally is expected to showcase the broad coalition of support that has crystallized around Governor Oyebanji's leadership.

The anticipated presence of the Vice President, APC governors, and other top party leaders reflects the strategic importance of Ekiti State to the APC and underscores the confidence of the party's leadership in Governor Oyebanji's performance, popularity, and capacity to consolidate the gains of his administration.

Over the last four years, Governor Oyebanji has earned widespread acclaim for delivering impactful governance across key sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, youth empowerment, security, tourism, and economic development. His inclusive approach to governance, bridge-building politics, and commitment to the welfare of the people have united Ekiti citizens behind a common vision of progress and prosperity.

According to the BAO Election Campaign Council, the statewide acceptance of Governor Oyebanji's re-election bid is a clear testament to the trust and confidence reposed in him by the people. The Council noted that wherever the campaign train visited, citizens openly expressed their appreciation for the governor's humility, accessibility, responsiveness, and commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy.

The Council further stated that the Grand Finale Mega Rally would not only celebrate the achievements of the administration but also serve as a historic affirmation of the collective resolve of Ekiti people to sustain the peace, stability, development, and inclusive governance that have become the hallmarks of the Oyebanji administration.

"The rally will be a powerful statement of unity and a clear signal that Ekiti people are determined to consolidate on the remarkable gains recorded over the last four years. It will demonstrate that the mandate to continue the progress agenda enjoys support across political, social, and generational divides," the Council stressed.

The Campaign Council therefore called on all APC members, supporters, and lovers of Ekiti State to turn out en masse and participate in what promises to be a historic gathering and a defining moment in the State's democratic journey.

While assuring participants of adequate security and logistics arrangements, the Council urged attendees to conduct themselves peacefully and comply with all relevant security and traffic management directives.

RELEVANCE OF BEING AN EVERGREEN PERSONALITY, NOT JUST A STAR.

RELEVANCE OF BEING  AN EVERGREEN PERSONALITY, NOT JUST A STAR.

By Ola Asubiojo.

In the journey of life, many people aspire to become stars—individuals who shine brightly, attract attention, and command applause.

 While there is nothing wrong with excellence and recognition, true greatness lies beyond momentary fame. The ultimate aspiration should not merely be to become a star, but to cultivate an evergreen personality.

A star dazzles the sky for a season; an evergreen personality remains relevant through generations.

 Stars often thrive on popularity, while evergreen personalities thrive on character. Stars may dominate headlines today and disappear tomorrow, but evergreen personalities leave footprints that time cannot erase.

In politics, the star politician seeks applause and public admiration. However, the evergreen leader focuses on service, integrity, and lasting impact. Political stars may win elections, but evergreen statesmen win hearts, shape policies, and influence society long after leaving office.

In administration and public service, stars may enjoy temporary recognition for achievements, but evergreen personalities become symbols of diligence, transparency, professionalism, and institutional excellence. Their contributions become standards for future generations.

In families and communities, stars may be celebrated occasionally, but evergreen personalities are remembered daily for their compassion, wisdom, sacrifice, and unwavering support. They become pillars upon which others build their dreams.

Life teaches us that fame is fleeting, but values endure. Wealth may fluctuate, titles may change, and positions may expire, yet humility, kindness, honesty, competence, and humanity remain timeless currencies that never depreciate.

Therefore, let our ambition not be limited to shining brightly for a moment. Let us strive to become individuals whose influence remains fresh and relevant regardless of changing seasons. Let us be known not merely for what we achieved, but for who we became in the process.

An evergreen personality is one whose character blossoms in every season, whose integrity survives every storm, whose wisdom transcends generations, and whose legacy continues to inspire long after physical presence fades away.

The world has seen countless stars rise and fall, but it never forgets evergreen personalities.

 Be the leader who serves. Be the professional who inspires. Be the citizen who uplifts. Be the human whose life becomes a testimony of enduring relevance.

For in the end, it is not the brightness of our spotlight that matters most, but the longevity of our impact. 

Aspire not merely to be a star; aspire to be an evergreen personality—relevant in service, exceptional in character, enduring in influence, and unforgettable in legacy.

"Stars shine for a night; evergreen personalities illuminate generations."