GOV. OYEBANJI TO SWEAR-IN NEW JUDGES.

GOV. OYEBANJI TO SWEAR-IN NEW JUDGES.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, will on Monday, February 23, 2026 preside over the swearing-in of the five newly appointed high court judges in the State judiciary.

The ceremony, scheduled to hold at the Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office in Ado-Ekiti, is billed for 10:00am, with invited guests expected to be seated by 9:30am.

A statement on Thursday by the Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Olayinka Oyebode, said the event marks another milestone in the administration’s commitment to deepening justice delivery and enhancing the efficiency of the state’s judicial system.

The appointment of the new judges is expected to address workload pressures within the High Court and accelerate the dispensation of cases across the state.

The swearing-in ceremony will be attended by top government officials, members of the judiciary, legal practitioners and other stakeholders.

Ekiti First Lady Rallies CSOs to Groom Women for Political Participation.

Ekiti First Lady Rallies CSOs to Groom Women for Political Participation.

The Wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, has called for deliberate and sustained engagement of women in politics, particularly those in tertiary institutions and at the grassroots, to entrench political participation as a culture rather than a seasonal ambition.

She made the call in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, at a strategic engagement with civil society organisations (CSOs) themed "Collaboration for Enhancing Women’s Political Participation", where she outlined practical steps to boost women’s representation across all tiers of governance in the state.

Dr Oyebanji said early political orientation and structured mentoring would help demystify leadership for young women and build their confidence to participate actively in governance.

“To achieve meaningful inclusion, we must begin to groom our girls and young women early, on our campuses, communities and local councils  so that participation in politics becomes a natural progression and not an afterthought". She said.

The First Lady proposed a multi-pronged approach to advancing women’s political inclusion, including increasing women’s representation at all levels of governance, establishing a Women’s Caucus in the Ekiti State House of Assembly, creating structured mentorship platforms for aspiring female leaders, and investing in political capacity-building and leadership skills training.

According to her, women in Ekiti possess the competence, resilience and leadership capacity required to contribute meaningfully to governance but often lack the institutional support and encouragement needed to step forward.

“Our women are ready. They are capable and strong. They simply need support and sometimes, a little encouragement to step forward". She aded.

She commended the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, for what she described as a firm commitment to inclusive governance, citing the increased number of female appointments under his administration. 

She, however, urged stakeholders to complement the administration’s efforts with deliberate policies and coordinated action.

Speaking further, Dr Oyebanji explained that the engagement with CSOs was strategic, given their proximity to women at the grassroots in markets, community associations and faith-based centres to position them as key partners in mobilising, mentoring and advocating for greater female participation in politics.

She called on civil society groups to intensify advocacy campaigns, collaborate rather than compete, and train women as election monitors to safeguard electoral integrity and ensure their voices are protected throughout the democratic process.

Earlier in her remarks, Ekiti State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Peju Babafemi, emphasised the need to dismantle structural and cultural barriers limiting women’s access to leadership positions.

The Secretary to the State Government, Professor Habibat Adubiaro, the Head of Ekiti State Civil Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi and the Deputy Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Bolaji Olagbaju, also underscored the importance of empowering women through policy reforms, political education and institutional backing.

Participants at the forum engaged in solution-driven discussions, identifying key challenges such as limited funding, cultural stereotypes and inadequate political exposure, while proposing practical strategies to strengthen networks, mentorship and advocacy structures for women.

The engagement also featured a shared commitment among stakeholders to work collectively toward building a more inclusive political landscape in Ekiti State,  one where women are not only participants but decision-makers to shape the future of the state.

Ramadan, Lent: Ajayi Urges Ekiti Residents To Pray For Peace Ahead Of Guber Poll.

Ramadan, Lent: Ajayi Urges Ekiti Residents To Pray For Peace Ahead Of Guber Poll.

Hon. Bayo Ajayi has urged residents of Ekiti State to take advantage of the coinciding Ramadan and Lenten season to seek God’s guidance and blessings for the state and Nigeria at large.

In a statement made available to journalists on Wednesday, the Emure Ekiti-born politician described the rare overlap of the two sacred periods in Islam and Christianity as a unique opportunity for spiritual renewal, unity, and collective intercession for the peace and progress of the state.

Ajayi emphasised the need for Muslims and Christians to demonstrate love, tolerance, and kindness towards one another, irrespective of political or religious differences. He noted that genuine development can only thrive in an atmosphere of harmony and mutual respect.

With the forthcoming governorship election in the state, he called on citizens to pray fervently for peace and stability, stressing that violence-free polls remain a shared responsibility.

He also assured residents of the state government’s commitment to maintaining a peaceful and secure environment before, during, and after the election.

Ajayi wished Muslim and Christian faithful a spiritually fulfilling Ramadan and Lenten season, praying that God would accept their supplications and grant them their heart’s desires.

EKITI FIRST LADY ENGAGES WITH CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS ON WOMEN'S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION.

EKITI FIRST LADY ENGAGES WITH CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS ON WOMEN'S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION.

In a decisive move to enhance women's political participation,  the First Lady of Ekiti State, H.E (Dr) Olayemi Oyebanji convened a strategic meeting with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), as she proposed strategies aimed at enhancing women's political participation. 

 Speaking on Wednesday at a high-level engagement with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) at the Adunni Olayinka Women Centre, Dr Oyebanji asserted that while the administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has broken records with an impressive number of female appointments, the work must now transition to measurable grassroots impact. "History will not remember how many meetings we held; it will remember what we changed," the First Lady declared. "Our women are ready. They need more support and,  encouragement for enhanced participation in politics."

To bridge the gap between participation and decision-making, Dr Oyebanji proposed a structured roadmap designed to produce tangible outcomes. These strategies include a massive drive to register new women voters across the state and the creation of a Mentorship Hub for young women to nurture the upcoming generation of female political leaders.

 Additionally, the strategic action includes the establishment of a formal Women’s Caucus in the State House of Assembly, the training of women as election monitors to safeguard democratic integrity, and vigorous advocacy for legislative reforms that institutionalise female representation at all levels of governance.

The event featured a powerful show of solidarity from Ekiti’s top female executives and political stakeholders, and representatives of CSOs demonstrating a unified front for the cause. 

The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, delivered a stirring address highlighting the "level playing field deficit" caused by political violence, limited financing, and entrenched stereotypes. She praised the First Lady’s vision as a vibrant social worker and advocate who understands that policy must meet community welfare to be effective. Similarly, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, alongside the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi, commended Dr Oyebanji for her strategic collaboration with CSOs, identifying them as the most effective "bridge" for carrying the message of inclusive governance to the grassroots.

Adding significant weight to the gathering were notable leaders and dignitaries, including Chief Mrs Ronke Okusanya; the Deputy Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bolaji Olagbaju Egbeyemi; and the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola. Also in attendance were the Director General of the Bureau of Civic Orientation and Citizenship, Mrs Olawumi Famuyiwa; the Director General of Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso Omotosho; and the Spouses of House of Assembly Members led by the wife of the Speaker, Mrs Nike Aribasoye. The engagement further saw the participation of the wives of Chairmen, Female Local Government Chairpersons, and various key political stakeholders.

Responding to the call for action, representatives of various CSOs and NGOs expressed their enthusiastic support for the roadmap. In their feedback, the advocates commended Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for setting a high bar in women's involvement through significant political appointments, officially declaring the current administration a "women-friendly and CSO-friendly Government." They pledged their full cooperation with the Office of the First Lady to ensure the message of political participation reaches every corner of the state.

Furthering the call for action, Mrs Olawumi Famuyiwa delivered a lecture titled "Collaborating for Enhancing Women’s Political Participation." She noted that while Ekiti currently ranks high nationally with a 0.752 score on the Women, Peace and Security (WPS) Index, the transition to elective offices remains the final frontier. The First Lady concluded the engagement by urging all stakeholders to choose "collaboration over competition," committing her office to champion enhanced female participation in politics and public administration.

Oyebanji hails President Tinubu on roads infrastructure in Ekiti.

Oyebanji hails President Tinubu on roads infrastructure in Ekiti.

… As Afenifere reaffirms endorsement of President, Oyebanji for re-election.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has expressed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the construction and rehabilitation of some inter and intra-state federal road to boost the economy and general well-being of residents of the state.

Governor Oyebanji who stated this on Tuesday, when he received leaders of the Ekiti State chapter of the Pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere led by its chairman, Elder Yemi Alade, in his to office, said Ekiti State in the last three and a half years has received more than what the President promised the State.

The Governor said the road projects, when completed, have the potentials to drive economic growth and development of the State and the Southwest region, as some of the road projects are linked to other states like Ondo and Osun.

The Governor spoke just as the Afenifere leaders re-affirmed their endorsement of President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji for re-election, citing the purposeful leadership provided by the President and the Governor for their support.

Oyebanji who hailed the group for their support for President Tinubu, said he remained tankful to the President for fulfilling all his promises to the state, leading to an unprecedented infrastructure development in Ekiti.

“I also want to appreciate the President for his support for Ekiti, and I want to thank you for endorsing his re-election. Mr. President has fulfilled more than he promised us.

“As I speak now, Akure to Ado-Ekiti is now 35 minutes. He did it, and with his support, we completed the airport. With his support, we have rehabilitated the Ado-Iworoko–Ifaki federal road. He has also approved the construction of the road from Osun State border to Aramoko, the value of that contract is N153 billion because it's going to be concrete pavement.

“Mr President has also directed and approved reconstruction of Aramoko-Ijero-Ido road, as well as Omuo – Ikole –Ifaki road, very soon, I know that work is ongoing in ensuring that we are linked to Osogbo rail line so, when you cumulate all these things, he has done well for us. But, unfortunately, we still have some of our children, maybe because of ignorance or what they will eat, their actions still portray Ekiti as ungrateful people. We need to caution such people. I am not against politics but they shouldn’t play politics with facts.”

Speaking further, Governor Oyebanji described Afenifere as the custodian of Yoruba traditional values and culture, and thanked the Yoruba socio-cultural group for endorsing him and President Tinubu for second term. He promised to continue to deliver the best policies and programmes to further improvement the socio-economic lives of the people.

The Governor said: “On behalf of myself and Mr President, I thank you for the open endorsement, Because Afenifere is the custodian of our values, political values and our culture. So, for you to come out openly to say this is where they are, I do not take it for granted and I'm extremely grateful on behalf of myself and the President. The endorsement was based on facts you know, I'm aware that you went through all the projects and that is what separates Afenifere from other groups, you are meticulous, you are not partial and you say things the way it is.”

The Governor said further that he had been able to deliver on campaign promises to Ekiti people, adding that he would continue to champion the principle of party supremacy, which entails carrying the party along in some key decisions, especially on political appointments.

Earlier, the Chairman of the group, Elder Yemi Alad,  affirmed the endorsement of Governor Oyebanji saying the decision was premised on his unprecedented and monumental achievements aimed at repositioning the state for socio-economic development of the people through the shared prosperity agenda of his administration.

Elder Alade highlighted the achievements to include the administration’s plausible economic policy, impactful infrastructural development, vibrant agricultural policy, regular payment of workers’ salaries and pension as well as enhancement of youth and women empowerment.

“Based on the above and convinced beyond all reasonable doubt that greater achievements will be recorded to renew your mandate during your second tenure, Egbe Afenifere resolved to organized the endorsement programme as pace-setting.

“Ekiti State chapter of Egbe Afenifere assures your excellency of our continued unflinching support, unfailing cooperation and unwavering loyalty during and after the forth-coming election. We remain with you to work devotedly for your election victory. We also prayerfully wish His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a resounding election victory in 2027 for second term tenure to move Nigeria forward.”

”we hereby reiterate our wish to dissociate ourselves from the fake, irresponsible group parading themselves as Afenifere Ekiti. It is not only a condemned group of impostors but a reflection of strange bed-fellows of doubtful characters. Ours is a genuine, purposeful and progressive group. We remain very solidly with your Excellency. Elder Alade asserted.

OYEBANJI URGES PRAYERS, CHARITY AS MUSLIMS, CHRISTIANS BEGIN FASTING.

OYEBANJI URGES PRAYERS, CHARITY AS MUSLIMS, CHRISTIANS BEGIN FASTING.

As Muslims and Christians worldwide commence the Ramadan and Lenten season on Wednesday, Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has stressed the need for adherents of the two religions to use the period to seek the face of God on behalf of the State and Nigeria in general.

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, enjoined every true believer to use the period for sober reflection, intercession and to show kindness to their neigbours and others in need.

The Governor also urged the people of the State, irrespective of their political and religious affiliations, to continue to live together in unity and harmony, which, he said, is needed at this particular period in order to stimulate the overall development of the state.

Governor Oyebanji noted the uniqueness of this year’s Ramadan month and Lenten season starting thesame day. This, he said, should not be seen as a sheer coincidence, but a uniqueness designed by God to teach us a lesson in unity, love, and the supremacy of God.

He urged both Muslims and Christians to utilize the period to fast and pray with all sincerity for the greatness of Nigeria and for peace to reign in all troubled spots in the country and at the global stage.

Specifically, the Governor urged Muslims and Christians in Ekiti to pray for peace to reign in the State, especially as electioneering for the June 20 governorship election has commenced.

Governor Oyebanji also restated the commitment of his administration to ensuring peace, safety and security of lives and property in the State before, during and after the election in order to make the state retain its position as the most peaceful state in the country and to further position it as the most attractive state to local and foreign investors.

“We wish all our brothers and sisters in the Christian and Islamic faith worldwide and in Ekiti in particular a successful completion of the lenten and Ramadan season. We covet your continued prayer support for the administration and our dear State, more especially this fasting season.May God accept our supplication and grant our heart desires for our families, our dear state and country.”, the statement added.

Oyebanji felicitates Muslims As Ramadan Commences.

Oyebanji felicitates Muslims As Ramadan Commences.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has felicitated the Muslim Ummah as the holy month of Ramadan commences with the siting of the moon.

Governor Oyebanji said being alive to witness and participate in the Ramadan fast is a special grace bestowed upon the faithful by the Almighty Allah, which should not be taken for granted.

The Governor, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday, urged the Muslim Ummah to utilize the Ramadan fasting period for prayers, worship, alms giving, deep reflection and support for the poor and the vulnerable in the society, which according to him, attracts blessings from Allah.

He described the 30-day fast as an important pillar in Islam, adding that observing the spiritual obligation deepens piety and draws the faithful to the Creator.

While noting that the Ramadan month offers an opportunity for spiritual rebirth, renewal and rejuvenation which creates a strong bond between the Almighty Allah and the faithful, Governor Oyebanji urged the Muslim faithful to be more steadfast in their prayers for Ekiti State and Nigeria so that greater level of peace, progress and prosperity can be achieved.

The Governor urged the faithful to ensure that the fasting bear positive fruit in their relationship with Allah as well as fellow human beings.

“Ramadan Kareem to all our Muslim brothers and sisters. This sacred month of Ramadan is a sacred month is a time for deep reflection, renewed faith, generosity and act of kindness one to another. May the fasting and prayers that characterize the month bring us greater level of peace, progress and abundant blessings,” the Governor added.