Rising Drug Abuse Threat: Ekiti Intensifies Campaign as Stakeholders Demand Rehab Centres, Stronger Family Role.

Rising Drug Abuse Threat: Ekiti Intensifies Campaign as Stakeholders Demand Rehab Centres, Stronger Family Role.

Worried by the growing impact of substance abuse on families and communities, stakeholders in Ekiti State have called for urgent preventive measures, including the establishment of rehabilitation centres, as the government steps up advocacy to curb the menace.

The call came during the “BAO for Healthy Families Outreach” held at the King’s Palace Town Hall in Efon-Alaaye, where government officials, health experts, traditional rulers and community leaders highlighted the dangers of drug abuse and the need for collective action.

Speaking at the event, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, described substance abuse as a major societal problem that has ruined many lives and families.

He urged parents to be vigilant, especially when their children exhibit unusual behaviour, noting that timely intervention could prevent avoidable consequences. 

In her welcome address, the programme facilitator and Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, said the outreach was aimed at addressing the far-reaching consequences of substance abuse, which she described as a serious public health issue and social challenge.

She explained that the initiative, organised in collaboration with the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Dayo Apata (SAN), aligns with the Oyebanji administration’s focus on human capital development and family wellbeing.

Mrs Babafemi stressed that substance abuse leads to health crises, broken homes, disrupted education, and increased crime, but noted that recovery remains possible with proper intervention and support.

Providing medical insights, a Consultant Gastroenterologist, Prof. Deji Ajayi, warned that drug abuse could result in severe health complications such as addiction, brain damage, cancers of the liver, lungs, and digestive system, as well as mental health disorders and suicide.

He advocated the establishment of rehabilitation centres in Ekiti State, stressing that prevention remains the most effective strategy in tackling the crisis.

Also speaking, a Clinical Psychologist, Dr Dotun Ajiboye, explained that prolonged use of alcohol and psychoactive substances alters brain function, leading to dependency, impaired judgement and emotional instability.

He noted that substance abuse often triggers domestic violence, neglect and economic hardship, thereby perpetuating cycles of vulnerability, and emphasised the need for early intervention and psychological support.

An Addiction Physician, Dr Abayomi Oshatimi, highlighted that effective treatment requires structured approaches involving detoxification, therapy and medication, adding that recovery is gradual and requires patience and sustained support.

He also called for expanded access to rehabilitation services and the reduction of stigma, which discourages many victims from seeking help.

In his remarks, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Dayo Apata (SAN), described substance abuse as “the mother of all abuses,” noting that it destroys individuals mentally, physically, spiritually and financially.

He recalled instances where drug abuse denied applicants employment opportunities, stressing that rescuing the younger generation requires collective efforts and sustained public enlightenment.

Mr Apata also appreciated Governor Oyebanji and his wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, as well as the Alaaye of Efon Kingdom and other stakeholders for their support of the initiative. He commended the Women Affairs Commissioner for championing the programme.

The State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr Sunday Aina, expressed concern about the absence of a rehabilitation centre in the state and called on the government to urgently establish one.

He noted that drug abuse is a global problem linked to crime and social instability, adding that tackling it requires collaboration among parents, communities and relevant agencies.

Speaking on behalf of the Efon Development League, the former Permanent Secretary of the Ekiti State Ministry of Information, Mr Kola Ajumobi, assured that the group would incorporate substance abuse awareness into its youth education programmes.

Also contributing, the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi, and the former Commissioner for Culture, Arts and Tourism, Chief Ronke Okusanya, described the programme as timely, stressing that involvement in hard drugs is incompatible with a successful future and urging parents to monitor their children closely.

The Alaaye of Efon, Oba Emmanuel Adesanya Aladejare, commended the organisers and pledged continued support for enlightenment initiatives aimed at building a progressive and healthy society.

Similarly, the Chief Whip of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Bose Olowokere, lauded the initiative and assured that such programmes would continue to receive support and be sustained.

The event also had in attendance key government officials, including the Commissioner for Works, Hon. Sola Adebayo; Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola; Special Adviser/Director General, Office of Transformation and Service Delivery, Dr. John Moyo Ekundayo; Dr. Olamide Obe, who represented the Commissioner for Health; and the Chairman of Efon Local Government, Hon. Segun Ezekiel Afolabi.

Other participants were market women, students, transport workers, artisans, civil society groups and security agencies. 

Stakeholders unanimously agreed that addressing substance abuse requires a multi-sectoral approach involving government, families and communities, with renewed calls for policies that prioritise prevention, treatment and rehabilitation.

Ekiti Gov Poll: Celestial Church Declares Support for Oyebanji, Deputy.

Ekiti Gov Poll: Celestial Church Declares Support for Oyebanji, Deputy.

...To hold statewide revival ahead of poll.

As a way of demonstrating clear  fraternity with one of their members in government, Celestial Church of Christ in Ekiti State, has declared readiness to back the re-election of Governor Biodun Oyebanji and his Deputy, Chief (Mrs)  Monisade Afuye, in the June 20 governorship election.

The church members expressed joy over the performance rating of Governor Oyebanji and the way he had  operated frictionlessly with Mrs Afuye, who is  a top ranking  member of the church, since the advent of the government on October 16, 2022.

Besides total endorsement of the governor, the church leaders, promised to hold a statewide revival and thanksgiving to offer prayers and supplications for Oyebanji and his  Deputy to emerge victorious in the poll and for Ekiti to witness an election devoid  of crisis and bloodshed on June 20. 

The CCC gave the declaration on Tuesday, during a courtesy  visit by a powerful delegation of church leaders to the office of the Deputy Governor, in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State Capital. 

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, a high profile church member and former Ekiti State Acting Governor, Rt Hon. Tope Ademiluyi, disclosed that the entire celestial church family are proud of the outstanding humility and loyalty being  displayed by the Deputy governor. 

Ademiluyi said the support for Oyebanji/Afuye joint ticket didn't stem solely from the deputy governor's membership of the church, but for the performance the two leaders have demonstrated in their first term, that was widely adjudged superlative by Ekiti residents. 

"We are very proud of the Deputy Governor as a member of the celestial Church of Christ, ditto Governor Biodun Oyebanji. In fact, the two of you are a perfect match for governance. Everybody knows that the two of you are well behaved and humble individuals. 

"We are happy that you have done well and nobody has ever had any cause to settle any rift between you. We have been in politics in this state for a while and we knew the happenings in the past. Your government has done well to the extent that the opposition was giving you credit and saluting you.

"In Ekiti today, nobody is being forced to endorse your second term ambition. It was being given freely. This is a hallmark of leadership. 

"We are assuring you that on June 20, all the Celestial Church members that have reached adulthood will file out to vote for you. Your first term has been so excellent that the people were begging you to come and serve again. You have done well and we are confident that your second term will be better".

Speaking for the youth wing of the church, Leader Yomi Oso, clarified that members haven't committed any grave blunder for the endorsement, saying it was a clear way of supporting one of their own and show solidarity to a government that has performed creditably well.

Oso said the delegation comprises all the existing parishes in the state, which he said underscored how united the members were in their backing for the governor and his deputy. 

In her submission, a member of the church and the Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso Omotoso, added that the endorsement was freely given and not by coercion, saying other similar actions had been taken by some churches who have interest in the governor's performance.  

"The vision behind this  is for Celestial Church members to show solidarity with one of their own. The Deputy Governor, Mrs Monisade Afuye is a mother-in-celestial, who has done admirably well. We can't afford to abandon her. 

"We are not stopping at that, we will continue to help this government with prayers and that is the essence of the statewide prayers and thanksgiving that we are planning for the government".

In his exhortation at the parley, the leader of the delegation, Assistant Most Superior Evangelist Akinola Abraham Aladeseye,  appealed to the two leaders to continue to embrace love in their leadership, warning that no nation can grow when people are locked in perpetual enmity, acrimony and crisis .

Evangelist Aladeseye stated that the proposed statewide revival and prayers would attract members across the 16 local governments and would be a congregation of anointed church members and veritable platform to intercede for Ekiti's liberation and greatness under Governor Oyebanji's leadership. 

Commending the celestial Church for the solidarity, the Deputy Governor, Mrs Afuye, declared readiness to serve selflessly, describing the endorsement as an impetus that would make her work more assiduously and committedly for radical transformation of the state.

Mrs Afuye promised not to betray the confidence reposed in her by the celestial Church nationally, saying she was quite aware of the high expectations from her spiritual leaders, which she vowed never to dash. 

The Deputy Governor stated that her boss has ensured religious equality and tolerance since ascension of office, pledging that the government won't discriminate against anyone on account of  religious inclination. 

"I am indeed joyous to be in your midst today. In fact, I appreciate this recognition for me and my boss. That I am part of you is a glory to the celestial Church in Ekiti and Nigeria. Governor Oyebanji honours and values your support and what you are doing today, you are really making history. 

"The governor is not just doing well because he knows it all, it is your prayers that have sustained us this far. I beg you, go back to your individual churches and continue to pray for the success of this government. We are for you and the entire Ekiti citizens. 

"I am proud to be part of you. Nobody can be listening to preachings in celestial churches and messed up if given any position in government. I am assuring you, I won't disappoint you. On behalf of the governor, we appreciate this support and solidarity", she added.

Mastercard Foundation, IDH Partner Ekiti to Deepen Cassava Value Chain Development.

Mastercard Foundation, IDH Partner Ekiti to Deepen Cassava Value Chain Development.

The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing a secure and enabling environment for agribusiness investors, as the Mastercard Foundation and IDH Netherlands visited the state’s Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) to assess progress in cassava value chain development.

In Pic: Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade.

The Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, gave the assurance during the visit, describing the organisations as critical partners in the state’s drive to boost agricultural productivity and economic growth.

Boluwade said the government would continue to support investors and ensure adequate security for farming communities to enhance sustainable agribusiness operations.

He added that the state was also prioritising support for programme participants, particularly young women, through the provision of mechanisation services aimed at improving productivity and efficiency.

The assessment tour took the delegation to Itapaji and Iyemero Ekiti in Ikole Local Government Area, where youths participating in the Mastercard Foundation-funded WISE programme turned out in large numbers to receive the visitors.

The delegation included the Country Director of Mastercard Foundation in Nigeria, Ms. Rose Fynn, and the Global Director of IDH Netherlands, Mr. Kebba Coiley. They inspected project sites at Promise Point Farm in Itapaji and FMS Farms Ltd in Iyemero.

Speaking during the visit, Fynn commended the participating youths for their commitment and performance, noting that their level of engagement was encouraging.

In the same vein, Coiley expressed satisfaction with the implementation of the programme and the positive feedback from beneficiaries.

The WISE (Women in Sourcing Enterprise) programme is designed to create employment opportunities for youths, especially women aged between 18 and 35, within the cassava value chain.

No fewer than 7,500 beneficiaries are currently participating in the programme through four partner organisations in the state: FMS Farms Ltd, Promise Point Farm, ABAAS and Value Ingredients Ltd.

Funded by the Mastercard Foundation and implemented by IDH, the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to promote inclusive and sustainable agricultural development in the state.

IDH, an international organisation established in 2008 in the Netherlands, partners with public and private sector stakeholders to develop sustainable agricultural markets, improve smallholder livelihoods and promote fair working conditions.

2027: Ekiti is Secured for Tinubu, Oyebanji Boasts.

2027: Ekiti is Secured for Tinubu, Oyebanji Boasts.

....as President's support group distributes 1,600 bags of rice.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has boasted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will win the state with massive votes in the impending  2027 presidential poll, saying the  victory will be secured  on account of landmark projects and juicy  appointments he allotted to Ekiti that have impacted positively on people's lives. 

Oyebanji was elated that the solid collaboration between his government and the federal government is mutually beneficial, advising Ekiti residents to continually back the President to ramp up such benefits and ensure they continue unabated.  

The Governor spoke in Ado Ekiti, on Monday, during the flag off of the distribution of 1600 bags of rice to the residents, by a pro-Tinubu group "Renewed Hope Ambassadors" to galvanize support for President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji. 

Those captured as beneficiaries from the food palliatives were majorly traders, people with disabilities, low income earners, drivers, civil servants, youth groups, among others  

Speaking at the occasion, Governor Oyebanji, represented by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, applauded the Renewed Hope Ambassadors for its steely commitment to the growth of the All Progressives Congress and efforts to position the party to win the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State and the 2027 presidential election. 

Oyebanji , who hailed the philanthropic gesture, expressed unshakeable belief that the empowerment will go a long way in complementing efforts being taken by his government to make lives easier for the citizens.

Predicting the 2027 election, Oyebanji exuded confidence that President Tinubu will defeat his opponents with wide margin in Ekiti, assuring that the state will surpass the 500,000 votes threshold set by the APC.

"We are indeed grateful to the Renewed Hope Ambassadors for its commitment to ensuring that the party continues to dominate politics and governance in Nigeria and in Ekiti State beyond 2026 and 2027. 

"Ekiti is sure and secured for President Tinubu. We are going to use the June 20 governorship election to send a signal that President Tinubu is loved by our people . We appreciate the level of projects and juicy appointments our people have enjoyed under this government. 

"We are assuring President Tinubu that our people shall reciprocate all the good deeds we have enjoyed under his leadership. As far as I know, Ekiti is a done deal for him".

Justifying while Ekiti electorate should reelect President Tinubu, the Coordinator of Renewed Hope Ambassador and Special Adviser on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe, appreciated the President over speedy completion Ado-Ikere-Akure road and for setting machinery in motion for the reconstruction of Ado-Aramoko-Itawure road. 

Awe said since the advent of democracy in 1999, Ekiti had not savoured  plum federal appointments as being witnessed  under Tinubu presidency, saying the electorate must show appreciation through their votes for the APC in every election. 

The former APC State Chairman, assured that the empowerment  is not going to be a one-off benefit, saying he has secured assurance from President  Tinubu that the intervention will be carried out at regular interval to buffer the economic hardship on the people. 

"In terms of solid infrastructures and appointments, Ekiti has not done badly under Tinubu Presidency.  What we have not witnessed before are happening in Ekiti positively. 

"Renewed Hope Ambassadors has Representatives up to the unit level, so we are working hard to galvanize support for President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji ahead of the coming elections.

"We are sitting the 'Ts' and crossing the 'Is'. We are running the campaigns of our president and Governor Oyebanji together. We are happy, because we have a president who is working hard to reduce poverty in our nation. Through solid infrastructures, he is linking Lagos to Calabar and Badagry to Sokoto.

"Our people must understand that all these can't start bearing fruits within three months, it will take a while. All these roads are concrete laid. When he took over, Lagos-Ibadan road  was half way done, but he has completed it. Akure-Ife-Ibadan road is nearing completion. 

"Let me say  this loudly, the re-elections  of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji are a done deal in Ekiti. These are not victories that will be given by emotion, but by performance and what our people have been able to benefit". 

Lending their voices, the commissioner for Information, Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, Chairman, Local Government Service Commission, Chief Alaba Abejide and Special Adviser on Mobilisation and Gender Matters , Mrs Kemi Olaleye , expressed confidence that the opposition parties will be trounced in Ekiti Guber poll and the 2027 presidential elections.

They were emphatic  that the aggressive mobilisation being spearheaded by the party will make the APC surpasses the 500,000  votes projection  set by the party in the impending elections. 

"APC is a political party with experience. We know where the votes are. The votes are at the grassroots and that is where we are going to canvass for votes, not on the social media where our opponents are always rushing to. President Tinubu will win the 2027 election, it is sure because Nigerians are with him".

Ekiti North 2 Race: Olarewaju’s Experience and BAO-Aligned Humanitarian Vision in Focus.

Ekiti North 2 Race: Olarewaju’s Experience and BAO-Aligned Humanitarian Vision in Focus.

As political activities intensify ahead of the Ekiti North Federal Constituency II contest, attention continues to shift toward candidates whose records reflect service, capacity, and alignment with the developmental direction of the state government.

Among the frontline contenders is Kunle Ibrahim Olarewaju, whose political journey spanning his time in the House of Representatives and later as Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters has been consistently defined by public service, legislative engagement, and grassroots connection.

Olarewaju’s governance philosophy reflects the humanitarian and development driven agenda of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji BAO, particularly in the areas of people centered governance, inclusive development, and welfare oriented leadership. This alignment places him within a strategic framework that supports ongoing development efforts between the state and federal levels.

During his tenure in the National Assembly, Olarewaju was associated with advocacy for constituency focused initiatives aimed at improving social welfare and strengthening community development structures. His approach reflected a consistent belief that governance must translate into tangible benefits for the people.

Similarly, his role as Special Assistant on National Assembly Matters further deepened his understanding of policy coordination, intergovernmental relations, and legislative executive synergy, skills considered vital in advancing development agendas similar to that of the BAO led administration.

The shared humanitarian outlook between Olarewaju’s political ideology and Governor Oyebanji’s governance framework continues to shape discussions around continuity, collaboration, and sustainable development.

As former U.S. President Abraham Lincoln once noted, “Government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.” This principle continues to define expectations of representation in Ekiti North Federal Constituency II.

In the same spirit, Olarewaju’s blend of experience and ideological alignment positions him to deepen the impact of ongoing reforms and development initiatives.

As the contest progresses, emphasis remains on experience, alignment with state developmental vision, and capacity to deliver as key determinants for effective representation.

#PBATTILL2031

#BAOTILL2030

#IBOLEKANSI

#VICTORYISASSURED

Ikogosi Backs Oyebanji with ₦25m, Mobilises Grassroots for Re-election.

Ikogosi Backs Oyebanji with ₦25m, Mobilises Grassroots for Re-election.

….Community pledges rallies, voter education in mobilisation drive.

A powerful wave of grassroots political support swept through Ikogosi- Ekiti, the hometown of Governor Biodun Oyebanji as the Ikogosi Progressives Union (IPU) and the Oyebanji Age Group, Egbe Ayonimofe, rolled out a combined ₦25 million campaign support package for the Governor’s re-election bid.

At a well-attended community engagement, held at the Governor’s residence in Ikogosi, the IPU led the charge with a ₦20 million donation, alongside 200 customised shirts and face caps, while Egbe Ayonimofe contributed ₦5 million, sending a strong signal of consolidated community backing ahead of the polls.

Speaking on behalf of the IPU, its President, Mr. Agbaje Olusola, described the gesture as more than financial support, calling it a firm political endorsement of a leader they described as Ikogosi’s pride and a proven performer. 

He cited the Governor’s achievements in infrastructure renewal, social investment, and inclusive governance, noting that his administration has remained firmly rooted in grassroots engagement.

On its part, Egbe Ayonimofe, led by its President, Deacon Ojo Ogunsesin, reaffirmed its confidence in the Governor’s leadership, describing him as a unifying force and dependable ally of the community. 

Deacon Ogunsesin attested to the fact that Governor Oyebanji consistently participates in the monthly contributions of the age group and regularly hosts their meetings.

He noted that Oyebanji’s accessibility, consistent support, and personal connection with members have strengthened unity and deepened trust in his administration.

In a further demonstration of support and commitment, both groups unveiled plans for a series of high-energy rallies across Ikogosi and neighbouring communities aimed at deepening grassroots mobilisation and expanding support for the Governor. 

They also announced a major community rally scheduled for May 2, 2026, to which they formally invited the Governor and members of his campaign council, adding that the event would be a veritable platform for voter education and public sensitisation.

Beyond political mobilisation, Egbe Ayonimofe also disclosed plans to embark on voter education initiatives, including sensitisation on political awareness and party identification, stressing the need for citizens to clearly distinguish between political platforms ahead of the elections.

Speaking on behalf of the campaign council, Chief Alaba Abejide described the contributions as a resounding vote of confidence in Governor Oyebanji’s leadership and rising popularity. 

Chief Abejide Commended the donors for their display of affection, support and loyalty, and prayed for their continued progress and prosperity.

In his response, an emotionally moved Governor Oyebanji expressed deep appreciation for what he described as a heartfelt demonstration of loyalty, love, and shared ownership of his administration. 

He assured the groups that their support would further strengthen his resolve to deliver greater dividends of democracy across Ekiti State.

“I will not take this trust for granted,” the Governor said, reaffirming his commitment to deepen development efforts and sustain progress across critical sectors.

Further underscoring the political significance of the development, the Director of Media and Communications of the Biodun Oyebanji Campaign Council, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, said the donation and planned rallies reflect the Governor’s deep and sustained acceptance at the grassroots level. 

Olatunbosun noted that support from communities like Ikogosi continues to grow steadily, driven by trust in the Governor’s leadership and visible impact, adding that the people remain firmly aligned with him as the election approaches.

EKITI SOUTH FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY I YOUTHS HOLD ENGAGEMENT, ENDORSE BAO/MCA ’26 RE-ELECTION AND OJUAWO ’27 SECOND TERM.

EKITI SOUTH FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY I YOUTHS HOLD ENGAGEMENT, ENDORSE BAO/MCA ’26 RE-ELECTION AND OJUAWO ’27 SECOND TERM.

Youths of Ekiti South Federal Constituency I convened a well-attended Youth Engagement and Strategic Endorsement Programme, bringing together a broad cross-section of young people, political stakeholders, and community leaders from Ikere, Ekiti South West, and Ise/Orun Local Government Areas.

The event, held at St. Stephen Anglican Church Hall, Erinwa, Ise-Ekiti, provided a vibrant platform for dialogue, civic inclusion, and the strengthening of youth participation in governance across the constituency.

In a major political development, participants unanimously expressed support for the BAO/MCA ’26 re-election bid and endorsed Hon. Rufus Ojuawo ’27, the Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I in the House of Representatives, for a second term ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Stakeholders noted that the endorsement reflects growing confidence in their leadership, as well as recognition of ongoing developmental initiatives and sustained commitment to grassroots engagement.

Youth participants emphasized the importance of continuity in governance, noting that sustained leadership would help consolidate ongoing projects and deepen the impact of policies aimed at youth empowerment and infrastructural development within the constituency.

Themed “Consolidating Progress, Empowering Youth, Securing the Future,” the programme underscored the strategic role of young people in shaping the political and socio-economic trajectory of Ekiti South Federal Constituency I. Participants stressed that meaningful youth engagement remains critical to achieving inclusive governance and long-term development.

The event also served as a rallying call for unity among youths across the three local government areas, urging them to remain actively involved in civic processes and to support initiatives that promote collective progress and stability.

Observers described the engagement as a timely intervention that not only strengthened political alignment within the constituency but also reinforced the growing influence of youth voices in shaping leadership direction ahead of the next electoral cycle.