Meet the Longest Reigning King in Yoruba land.

Meet the Longest Reigning King in Yoruba land.

......As Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II (JP) The ONIGEDE of Igede-Ekiti Celebrates 64years Coronation Anniversary on the throne (1959-2023). 

Kabiyesi, His Royal Majesty, Oba James Adelusi Aladesuru II (JP) Petu Bi Owuro, the paramount ruler of the ancient town of Igede-Ekiti kingdom and its environs ascended the throne of his progenitors on the 26th of June, 1959 at a tender age of 26.

Oba J.A. Aladesuru II (JP) was born in 1933 and Crowned as 27th Onigede of Igede Ekiti on 26th June, 1959. He is a descendant of the OKIRIBITI ADEYIBAKA dynasty. He succeeded Oba Olubusi Apata from Onaowuro family who reigned between 1950-1957.

Oba Agunsoyebiosupa Aladesuru (I) who was the king between (1890-1941) and his wife, Olori Johanah Ogunkolade Aladesuru who was the Eleventh wife were the parents of the king and his two siblings namely: Late Princess (Dns) Olufunmilayo Fatunla (Nee Aladesuru) and Prince John Aladebusuyi Aladesuru.

Oba J.A. Aladesuru attended Baptist Central School, Igede Ekiti. He was trained as a photographer at ISEYIN between 1955 and 1956. He worked as a clerk in Upper Region Agricultural Farm ILORA near Iseyin, Oyo State between August and November 1956.

He thought in PINNOCK memorial Baptist Primary School [PMPS] Via ILORA between 1957 and August 1958. He was transferred to First Baptist Primary School Ilora via Oyo as a teacher and later transferred back to Pinnock Memorial Primary School in January 1959.

History has it that at the turn of making Late Oba Agunsoyebiosupa Aladesuru 1 Onigede of Igede, the father of the present strong and handsome Oba, the king, the choice was made without any election, it was a matter of bringing him home from IWOROKO EKITI where he was residing. 

Same thing happened to his son. While Oba J.A ALADESURU was at Ilora he did visit his friend, High Chief J. A. Olowere, the Osolo Of Igede at Ibadan. Chief Osolo during his visit to Igede was cut in the web of the struggle to have his friend installed as the King.

When Chief Osolo met his friend later, he seized the opportunity to brief the Prince now the KING on the idea being muted back at home. However, the Prince i.e Oba J.A Aladesuru's reaction was as spontaneous as it was negative. He Rebuffed the offer in its totality. 

Highly disenchanted with the development, the Prince drafted a strongly-worded letter that he intended to send to his people at home. But God tempered his annoyance with some elements of rationality as he decided to have his letter perused by his friend before being dispatched. To his eternal credit, Chief Olowere counseled his friend against sending the letter and the latter complied.

Mr J. A. Olofin (Balogun of Igede) who was then a councillor in Ado District Council as well as a member of Ekiti Divisional Council went ahead to convene an inclusive conference of all Igede people on the issue of Onigede chieftaincy in early 1959. It was held at the house of High Chief Aro Famoroti. In attendance were the High Chiefs (Agbailu) and eminent Igede indigenes. The conference main theme was "Onigede Selection and Rule of Law"

At the end of the conference, a position paper endorsed by all stakeholders was prepared and forwarded to the Western Regional Government in Ibadan for necessary approval. Apart from Mr Olofin, other known indigenes of Igede who played notable roles included Chief Mrs J. A. Fatunla, Mr E. O. D. Adedipe and Mr S. A. Fajemilehin and Chief J. O. Osuntokun, the then Minister of Local Government in the Western Region also made a valuable input. 

Government approval of Prince James Adelusi Aladesuru as the Onigede-elect finally came very early in 1959.

On the receipt of the official letter of approval from the government, the Enumo met and fixed the crowing ceremony of the Onigede for 26th June, 1959. But the greatest task remained getting the Prince to accept the offer. The clarion call to bring the Prince home got intensified in all quarters. Indeed, it became the dominant issue in public discourse in the town and in any gathering of sons and daughters of Igede outside the town.

At a point in time, one of the Princes who had earlier been sensitized by Chief Ogundana decided to bell the cart. His name was Prince Simeon Aladesuru. Because of the sensitivity of the mission to be accomplished, i.e bringing home his brother, he had to prepare very well. In this wise, his sense of history, versatility and experience all combined, put him in good stead to accomplish the task. Thus, with the letter of appointment of his junior brother as Onigede carefully tusked inside his traveling bag, Prince Simeon headed for Ilora.

On Monday, 8th June 1959, he arrived at his destination. Coincidentally, he saw his brother a distance away going out with a view to executing an assignment given earlier to him by his church. The naming ceremony of a newly born baby to a co-church member was to take place and he had been assigned to lead the solemn ceremony.

On sighting his visitor, the Prince's eyes were enveloped with darkness and uncertainty. He was thoroughly confused. Though he had not been told, but he already knew the likely reason for the visit of the least-expected august visitor. All the same, the message was finally delivered to him and despite the initial mixed feelings with which the young Prince received the message, he finally bowed to the verdict of fate. 

He summoned courage and went ahead to perform the initial planned naming ceremony of a co-church member.

Very early the next day, Tuesday, June 9, 1959, the two Princes set out for Igede en route Ibadan. But throughout the period that the journey lasted, it was a gory tale of emotional pains for the would-be Onigede. For once, he felt quite nostalgic for Ilora and the good times he had had in the community and on the other hand, he looked at the challenges posed by the task ahead with trepidation.

But the situation in Igede was at variance with his expectations when he and his half brother arrived the town later on the day. As a matter of fact, his anxieties fizzled away when they got home as they were welcomed ceremoniously by the people of the town.

Immediately Kabiyesi was crowned, he became a rallying point of Local Government administration and took effective control of his chiefs and the entire people of Igede. The age groups were coordinated and strengthened, while Elegbes and the war veterans of Igede were encouraged to hold their meeting regularly. Kabiyesi elevated some deserving chiefs to Enumo status to ease his administration.

The 64 eventful years reign of Kabiyesi has no doubt brought remarkable and visible progress, development and lofty achievements and attitude to various segments, including but not limited to development in Education, Health care delivery, Sanitation, Politics, Social-cultural life, road network, commercial and infrastructure. These have advanced tremendously in the last 64 years of his reign.

ORIKI

Omo alaye han maye iun

Omo monmu Ipa re o ka

agbonrin alele i sun la lele l'Ara isa

agbonrin alele i pete otata oniyan l'eru

Omo apasa li e meji, o mu mejeji i somo lore

omo eye gbaun, aba gbaun i soju mia mia

o gba han la tan, oni i tu pin ran

omo a mo sisu ko m'ori ti de

omo o se run jabala jo igun

onigede nu kan li lugbo agbe, s'ekeji Adimula

omo oloke ko m'oke gigun

omo owa omo ekan

Omo Alaye gbede boli layin

CONGRATULATIONS KABIYESI

#Onigede

#LongestReigningMonarch

#InYorubaLand, Nigeria and West Africa.

Ekiti Obas Greet Muslims, Seek Prayers for a Stronger and Prosperous Nigeria.

Ekiti Obas Greet Muslims, Seek Prayers for a Stronger and Prosperous Nigeria.

The Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers has felicitated Muslims on the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging them to direct their prayers and sacrifices towards a stronger and prosperous Nigeria. 

This message was contained in a statement congratulating Muslims Ummah and signed by the Chairman of the Council, Oba Gabriel Ayodele Adejuwon, CFR and made available to journalists, in Ado Ekiti, on Tuesday.

Oba Adejuwon Ayodele CFR who doubles as the Onisan of the Isan kingdom, showered encomiums on Muslims for playing stabilizing roles in the country through their prayers and philanthropic gestures.

The monarch urged them to celebrate Sallah with a specific focus and mindset that Nigeria needs prayers to surmount the current excruciating economic spates pummeling the country and creating an atmosphere of despondency among the citizens.

Oba Adejuwon urged Muslim Ummah to continually demonstrate the ethos of loyalty, sacrifice, love, togetherness, and holiness, as reflected in the life of Prophet Ibraheem, who was considered the symbol of Eid-el-Kabir celebration. 

"On behalf of the Council, I congratulate the Muslims in Ekiti and Nigeria for this year's Sallah. I charge them to celebrate with decency, moderation, and as well live for others, as exhibited by Prophet Ibraheem.

"It is clear to everyone that our country is currently challenged economically. This spiritual time offered veritable opportunities for Nigerians, especially  Muslim adherents to pray for the land for spiritual intervention and economic prosperity." 

"Sallah is not celebrated for nothing, it represents a very pivotal space in the life of any Muslim. The teachings and lessons of holiness, contentment, loyalty, piety, and mutual respect, and trust must be allowed to take root in Nigeria.

"We believe that there is no problem that cannot be solved through a collective will. Nigerians must learn how to coalesce their prayers to bring Nigeria out of her current economic challenges, and all of us have critical roles to play in actualizing this onerous task".

Omoluabi Team Alliance Socio-Cultural and Political Group Felicitates With Faithful Muslim on Eid-el-Kabir Celebration.

Omoluabi Team Alliance Socio-Cultural and Political Group Felicitates With Faithful Muslim on Eid-el-Kabir Celebration.

Foremost socio-political Omoluabi Team Alliance Socio-Cultural and Political Group has rejoiced with muslim faithful in Nigeria on this year 2023/144 celebration of Eid el Kabir.

According to the press statement issued by the Public Secretary of the group Comrade Olamide Akinwumi James personally signed by the Convener of the platform, Omoluabi Jayeola A.O to commemorate the end of the holy month of Ramadan, the group enjoined all Muslim Faithful to sustain the good deeds exhibited during the holy month and continue to practice the teachings of prophet Muhammad (S. A. W).

"It becomes expedient to send my greetings to you all. I sincerely hope all is well and that we all are doing great. However, we know we are trying to cope but the grace of Allah is sufficient for us all. 

"We want us to be patient in all we do by waiting upon the Allah for his blessings. Remember it is only Allah that giveth good riches without adding pain to it. Just stay focus in all you do, then at the end you smile with good testimony.

"As regards Omoluabi Team Alliance, please let us cooperate as usual to keep moving together as one indivisible and indissoluble team. Let us see the group as a virile one that is sustainable and never will it fail. It has never been easy putting a team of human beings together. It requires patience, consistency, diligence, commitment, being positive minded and not allowing discouragement of any sort. We sincerely hope that if we continue to persevere together, discuss together putting aside political affiliations, religious beliefs but sharing and believing in same ideology, we are then very close to getting to the top and the level at which we hope to operate in no distant time."

May the good spirit of Omoluabi never depart from us all. AMEN.

E-Signed: 

National Convener

Omoluabi Jayeola A.O 

Sallah: Ex-Ekiti Governorship Aspirant, Adebomi Greets Muslims.

Sallah: Ex-Ekiti Governorship Aspirant, Adebomi Greets Muslims.

....Charged them to Prays for the successful administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

..... urged them to support Gov. Oyebanji administration with total loyalty.

Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress(APC), Captain Sunday Adebomi(retd ) has felicitated with Muslims in Ekiti State, in particular and Nigeria at large on the occasion of the Eidel Kabir festival. 

Adebomi, a former Governorship aspirant, in his Sallah Message urged Muslims to appreciate the special grace of God Almighty who spared their lives to witness the 2023 edition of annual religious festival.

He enjoined Muslims to use the golden opportunity provided by the festival to seek God’s face for  the various challenges  confronting Nigeria, as a nation and her leaders, particularly President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The APC stalwart who is immediate past Chairman of the Ekiti State Emergency Management Agency said that Ekiti and indeed Nigeria are lucky to have two finest politicians; Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the helmp of Affairs at this critical moments of the state and nation’s history.

He therefore charged all Muslims to peacefully co-exist with other religion faithful because love and tranquility are twin ingredients that work for each other to provide dividends of democracy for the masses. 

“Our governor in Ekiti,  President and his team still needs our collective prayers and support to surmount all the challenges, Adebomi remarked.

“What we should do as citizens is to keep praying for them to be able to address those lingering problems facing the state and the country.

“As we are celebrating this year being the first ever Eid-el-kabir in Asiwaju’s presidency, I would like to advise Nigerians’ Muslims to use this period to pray for the success of this administration.

”Mr President has demonstrated strong capacity to lead the nation out of her present economic and security challenges. Adding that all that is required is unity and constant support of Nigerians.

“So this is the reason why Nigerians must rise up in unity to continuously pray for the President in order to rescue the masses from being suffocated, Adebomi said."

Ekiti 7th Assembly: House Sets up Committee on Legislative Agenda.

Ekiti 7th Assembly: House Sets up Committee on Legislative Agenda.

....As Hon. Idowu Odebunmi made list.

The Ekiti state House of Assembly has set up a six-man Ad-hoc Committee with the mandate to produce the legislative agenda for the 7th Assembly in the state.

This is contained in a statement released on Tuesday by the chairman of the committee, Hon. Ayodeji Adegbite, representing Ado Constituency I in the state of House of Assembly.

According to him, "the announcement of the creation of the committee was made by the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye during the 2nd plenary session of the newly inaugurated Assembly."

Adegbite, who stated that the committee was to be chaired by himself, said that the Committee was expected to commence consultative process of developing a blueprint to guide the 7th Assembly that would be aligned with the development Agenda of the Biodun Oyebanji administration in Ekiti State.

This, he said, was to ensure coherence and robust executive-legislative collaboration, to advance accelerated development in Ekiti State.

He added that the committee would take into consideration, the Agenda of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Administration to ensure Ekiti is best 

positioned to optimise benefits from the federal government's Renewed Hope Agenda.

Similarly, the committee, he said, would work with the executive to come up with an Executive/Legislative Agenda, adding that the speaker was committed in positioning the 7th Assembly to be a model sub-national parliament in Africa, hence, the creation of the legislative agenda.

"I want to use this opportunity to thank the honourable Speaker for the confidence reposed in me and other members to take on such a sensitive and strategic task.

"I have no doubt that with the pedigree of the members, we will deliver on the mandate to produce a legislative agenda 

that would be a reflection of the aspirations of our people.

"I also want to use this opportunity to call on development partners and grassroots stakeholders to support the process," Adegbite said.

Other members of the committee includes; Hon. Abimbola Solanke (Moba I), Hon.Babatunde Oke (lkere I), Hon. Omotayo Babatunde (lse/Orun), Hon. ldowu Odebunmi(Oye II), and Mr. Ogunmosunle Bankole as the Secretary.

Matured Minds Greet Muslim Faithful, in Ekiti State Prays for Peaceful Co-existence in Nigeria.

Matured Minds Greet Muslim Faithful, in Ekiti State Prays for Peaceful Co-existence in Nigeria.

Foremost socio-political group in Ekiti State, Matured Minds Community media have rejoiced with muslim faithful in Ekiti State and Nigeria in general on this year 2023/144 celebration of Eid el Kabir.

According to the press statement issued by the secretary of the group Comrade Oba Mathew, personally signed by the Convener of the platform, Hon.Ehinafe Odunayo to commemorate the end of the holy month of Ramadan, the group enjoined all Muslim Faithful to sustain the good deeds exhibited during the holy month and continue to practice the teachings of prophet Muhammad (S. A. W).

While noting that Ramadan has taught all Faithful on how to live a selfless and Godly life, he underscored the need for peaceful co-existence and the unity of Nigeria. 

Hon.Ehinafe said: “I wish to enjoin all Muslim Faithful in Ekiti State and Nigeria to moderate during the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr and continue to extend love to one another, especially the less-privileged in our Society. We should also sustain virtues of self-discipline, sacrifice and compassion to fellow Nigerians, irrespective of religion, tribe or race.”

Hon.Ehinafe also prayed for the peace and unity of Nigeria, calling on all Nigerians to join hands in Nation building.

Oba Mathew Olufemi,

Secretary, Matured Minds.

Ojuawo donates Cows to Constituents.

Ojuawo donates Cows to Constituents.

....urged them to maintain the peaceful existing religious harmony with people of other faiths.

The Honourable Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, Hon (AVM rtd) Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo, has donated 3 Cows to Muslims in his constituency, for the celebration of the Eid UI Adha.

Hon Ojuawo gave the cows to his constituents at Ikere LG, Ise/Orun LG and. Ekiti South West LG respectively. 

He enjoined Muslims communities in his constituents to always work with him without any inhibition so that the synergy will result in a productive and developmental partnership. 

In his short remarks, he said 'as we celebrate this year's Eid Ul Adha,  I wish the good people of my Constituents happy Celebration, we, through a symbiotic partnership, bring viable development to our Constituency.

let's continue to support the government to bring in visible dividends of democracy to our communities, Ojuawo reiterated."

He also asked them to maintain the existing religious harmony with people of other faiths in the constituency.

Ojuawo Media Team

Ekiti: Not yet time for politics, Gov Oyebanji is doing well, he deserves support from all of us~ Lere Olayinka.

Ekiti: Not yet time for politics, Gov Oyebanji is doing well, he deserves support from all of us~ Lere Olayinka.

A chieftain of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State, Lere Olayinka, has said that the State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, needs all the concentration he desired to remain on the path of good governance that he has started.

Olayinka, who was the PDP House of Representatives candidate for Ekiti Central Federal Constituency 2 in the last general elections, said gone were the days of politics of bitterness that held Ekiti State down for a long period, adding that "As for me, Governor Oyebanji is doing well and I won't be blinded by politics not to acknowledge that."

Speaking during a meeting with some PDP leaders in Ado Ekiti on Wednesday, he said those who abandoned the party during the last year governorship election and this year's general elections cannot be the ones to take the front stage and act as spokespersons of the party.

The former PDP Reps candidate said there was no pretending as to the fact that Governor Oyebanji has brought his personality trait of 'Omoluabi' to bear on governance in the State, adding that "Ekiti has gotten to such a level that after election, whoever is the governor must be supported by all in the interest of the State.

"If you pass through Ita Awure - Aramoko - Igede road, this time last year and now, you will see the clear difference and this can't be hidden even if you don't like the face of the governor. Personally, I remember how many times I had issues with my vehicle's tyres on that road.

"Also, I seen the governor even visiting those who contested the guber election with him, including those who even challenged his election up to the Supreme Court.

"He is running government across political party lines and for that, there is peace in the State. That's what Ekiti needs at this time."

Calling on genuine members of the PDP in the State to remain steadfast and hopeful of a better tomorrow, Olayinka said, "Some of us lost elections that we were poised to win. Some of as members of the party contributed to the loss. But I as a person have moved on and that's what I expect all of us to do, hoping that PDP will rise again."

Ekiti: Not yet time for politics, Gov Oyebanji is doing well, he deserves support from all of us~ Lere Olayinka.

Ekiti: Not yet time for politics, Gov Oyebanji is doing well, he deserves support from all of us~ Lere Olayinka.

A chieftain of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State, Lere Olayinka, has said that the State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, needs all the concentration he desired to remain on the path of good governance that he has started.

Olayinka, who was the PDP House of Representatives candidate for Ekiti Central Federal Constituency 2 in the last general elections, said gone were the days of politics of bitterness that held Ekiti State down for a long period, adding that "As for me, Governor Oyebanji is doing well and I won't be blinded by politics not to acknowledge that."

Speaking during a meeting with some PDP leaders in Ado Ekiti on Wednesday, he said those who abandoned the party during the last year governorship election and this year's general elections cannot be the ones to take the front stage and act as spokespersons of the party.

The former PDP Reps candidate said there was no pretending as to the fact that Governor Oyebanji has brought his personality trait of 'Omoluabi' to bear on governance in the State, adding that "Ekiti has gotten to such a level that after election, whoever is the governor must be supported by all in the interest of the State.

"If you pass through Ita Awure - Aramoko - Igede road, this time last year and now, you will see the clear difference and this can't be hidden even if you don't like the face of the governor. Personally, I remember how many times I had issues with my vehicle's tyres on that road.

"Also, I seen the governor even visiting those who contested the guber election with him, including those who even challenged his election up to the Supreme Court.

"He is running government across political party lines and for that, there is peace in the State. That's what Ekiti needs at this time."

Calling on genuine members of the PDP in the State to remain steadfast and hopeful of a better tomorrow, Olayinka said, "Some of us lost elections that we were poised to win. Some of as members of the party contributed to the loss. But I as a person have moved on and that's what I expect all of us to do, hoping that PDP will rise again."

Governor Oyebanji Congratulates Muslims At Eid-El-Kabir.

Governor Oyebanji Congratulates Muslims At Eid-El-Kabir.

.....urged faithful Muslim to emulate the faithfulness, and sacrifice exhibited by Prophet Ibrahim.

.....enjoined them to pray for the peace, progress and development of Ekiti State under his watch.

His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. Executive Governor of Ekiti State. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the occasion of this year's Eid-el-Kabir festival. 

Governor Oyebanji rejoiced with the Muslim faithful for another opportunity to witness the celebration of an important festival in the Islamic Calendar.

The Governor in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described Eid-el-Kabir as a time to appreciate the Almighty Allah for his mercies and benevolence. 

He noted that the lessons of sacrifice and total submission to the will of the Almighty Allah should continue to resonate in the lives of the faithful and guide them in their relationship with the Creator and fellow human beings. 

The Governor said the defining moment in the story of Eid-el-Kabir was the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Ishmael in deference to the wish of the Almighty Allah who was testing his faith.

He noted that Prophet Ibrahim's obedience was rewarded by God who provided a ram that was offered in place of Ishmael which was the essence of Eid-el-Kabir.

Governor Oyebanji urged the Muslim faithful to emulate the faithfulness, sacrifice, piety and patience which was exhibited by Prophet Ibrahim as well as the humility and submission to the will of Allah by his son, Ishmael.

He enjoined them to pray for the peace, progress, prosperity and development of Ekiti State under his watch, describing Muslims as important stakeholders in his administration.

Similarly, the Governor also urged them to pray for Nigeria to overcome her challenges and for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to succeed in the task of repositioning the country for the benefit of Nigerians.

He commended Muslim leaders and clerics in the state for their support and prayers for his administration which he noted have contributed to the successes so far recorded by the government. He also thanked religious leaders in the state for the harmonious relationship that exist among adherents of the major religions. 

“I congratulate the Muslim Ummah for witnessing this year’s Eid -el - Kabir festival. Let us remember our neighbors, our brothers and sisters, especially the less privileged and show love to them. 

“We should also pray for our state and country for peace and prosperity. Above all, let us continue to live in peace and harmony. Eid Mubarak, the Governor added."

Ijero Local Govt. Boss Presents N2.9 Billion 2023 Budget To Legislative Arm.

Ijero Local Govt. Boss Presents N2.9 Billion 2023 Budget To Legislative Arm.

........ Commends Gov. Oyebanji For Providing Enabling Environment For LG To Thrive.

By: Daniel Abe

The Executive Chairman of Ijero local government area of Ekiti State, Hon. Adeola Adeyemo has presented to the legislative arm  2.9bn proposed budget, which he tagged "Budget of reality".

The budget presentation which was a joint one, also consist of 2023 fiscal expenditures of the three Local Council Development Areas(LCDAs) under Ijero local government, which are,Irewolede, Irede and Eso-obe LCDAs.

Speaking at the event,Hon. Adeyemo said the budget aligned with the desires of all stakeholders in the local government, including the LCDAs and is in tandem with the six point agenda of the state government,led by governor Biodun Oyebanji.

According to the Council Boss,the budget will be financed by funds from the federation account, Value Added Tax(VAT),Excess Crude, Development Partners and Internally Generated Revenue (IGR).

The Chairman while dwelling on the budget performance of the 2022,reeled out the landmark achievements recorded so far by his administration, while also promising to leverage all of these projects in order to take the council to a greater and enviable heights.

"This year 2023 shall witness progress in the provision of essential services and basic needs that will make life more comfortable for our people of Ijero local government and the three (3) Local Counci Development Areas".

According to Adeyemo, the total expected income for Ijero local government was two Billion,Nine Hundred and Eighty Eight Million,Six Hundred and Twenty Five Thousand Naira (2,988,625,000.00),that of Irede LCDA was put at Six Hundred and Thirteen Million, Six Hundred and Sixty Six Thousand,Three Hundred and Thirty Three Naira(613,666,330.00). Irewolede LCDA was put at  Four Hundred and Sixty Million,Three Hundred and Thirty Five Thousand Naira only(460,335.00),while that of Eso-obe was put at Eighty Five Million (85,000,000.00).

Adeyemo also highlighted that a substantial amount of money have been earmarked by his administration and the three LCDAs for the construction of blocks of classrooms, rehabilitation of primary schools, Bursary/Schorlarship to indigenous students in various institutions ,mass literacy campaign and purchase of sports equipments.

On capital projects, Adeyemo said a sum of Seven Hundred and Fourty Million,Five Hundred and Fourty Five Thousand Naira (740,545,000.00k) was earmarked for capital expenditures in Ijero local government, while that of Irede LCDA was to gulp a sum of Three Hundred and Twenty Seven Million,Six Hundred and Sixty Thousand,Three Hundred and Thirty Three Naira (327,666,33300). Irewolede LCDA is Three Hundred and Eighty Three Million, Seven Hundred and Eighty Thousand Naira (383,780,000.00) and Eso-obe was put at Fifty Five Million Naira(55,000,000.00)

The Chairman expressed appreciation to governor Biodun Oyebanji For providing enabling environment for local government system to thrive in Ekiti State.

He also thanked his Predecessor,Dr. Kayode Fayemi for creating the Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), which gave Ijero local government the opportunity of having additional three (3) local councils.

He then presented a budget of 2.9bn to the Councillors for their perusals,consideration and approval.

Also speaking,the Executive Chairman of Irede LCDA, Hon. Gbenga Abobade, thanked the traditional rulers, community leaders and the entire people of the council areas for their unflinching support and cooperation towards the administraion of APC led government at the Federal, State and local levels. He assured that the 2023 budget will bring unprecedented development to all the communities in the council areas.

In his response,the Leader of Ijero Legislative Arm, Rt. Hon. Idowu Osunyomi, appreciated the Chairmen and everyone present for their support and cooperation,he then promised on behalf of others that the budget would be given accelerated passage.

Present at the event were the Chairman, Irede LCDA,Hon. Gbenga Abobade,Chairperson, Irewolede LCDA Hon (Mrs) Dupe Bakare,ably represented by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Samson Kolawole, Chairman, Eso-obe LCDA, Hon. Tosin Oluwole, Vice Chairman, Ijero local government, Hon. Oladeji Adetunji,Vice Chairman, Irede LCDA, Hon. Alfred Fabunmi, Secretary, Ijero local government, Hon. Dare Aniyikaye, Secretary, Irede LCDA, Hon. Yinka Adumati,all the Councillors from the twelve Wards, Supervisors, and Special Advisers.

Also in attendance were His Royal Majesty, Oba Emmanuel Adedara,Alara of Ara-Ekiti, party chieftains, senior management staff of the council areas and a host of others.

Ekiti Speaker Unveils Oyebanji’s Commissioner Nominees.

Ekiti Speaker Unveils Oyebanji’s Commissioner Nominees.

…Screening Commences on Monday.

The Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, on Tuesday unveiled the list of nominees for the position of commissioners forwarded by Governor Biodun Oyebanji for screening and confirmation.

Speaking at the plenary of the House, the first to be held since the Seventh Assembly was inaugurated on June 6, the Speaker disclosed that the screening would commence on Monday, July 3 when the nominees' are expected to begin appearing before the legislators.

Reading the communication from the Governor dated June 26, Rt. Hon. Aribasoye directed the Clerk of the Assembly to communicate each of the nominees to furnish the House thirty (30) copies of their Curriculum Vitaes (CVs) not later than Friday, June 30 in readiness for the screening which kicks off on Monday, July 3.

Rt. Hon. Aribasoye disclosed that the screening of commissioners-designate would be held on senatorial district basis with nominees from Ekiti North to be screened first while nominees from Ekiti South would follow while the last set to be screened are nominees from Ekiti Central.

The Speaker who announced the intention of the legislators to do a thorough job also disclosed that not more than three nominees would be grilled each day until the list is exhausted.

From the list read by the Speaker, Ado, Efon, Irepodun/Ifelodun, Ido/Osi and Ayekire Local Government Areas have two commissioner nominees each while nine other council areas have one each.

The nominees whose names were read out from the list by the Speaker are Mrs. Tosin and Mrs Tayo Adeola (Ado), Rt. Hon. Karonwi Oladapo and Mrs. Peju Babafemi (Efon), Prof. Ojo Bakare (Ekiti West), Hon. Ojo Atibioke (Ijero) and Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun and Mr. Adebayo Ajisola (Irepodun/Ifelodun).

Others are Mr. Adebayo Adesola and Dr. Kareem Akande (Moba), Chief Folorunso Olabode (Ilejemeje), Dr. Kofoworola Aderiye and Mr. Oyeniyi Adebayo (Ido/Osi) and Mr. Seun Fakuade (Oye).

The rest are Prof. Patrick Tedela (Ekiti Southwest), Mr. Kehinde Ajobiewe (Ekiti East), Mr. Olufemi Awe and Prof. Bolaji Aluko (Ayekire), Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade (Emure), Mr. Kayode Fasae (Ise/Orun) and Otunba Dolamu Adeniyi (Ikere).

The Speaker also explained that the approval of ten (10) Special Advisers would be would be done alongside that of the commissioners.

The Governor said the forwarding of the list signified his intention to expand the State Executive Council with the appointment of Commissioners to assist in service delivery to the people of Ekiti State.

It will be recalled that the Ikole local government area already have two serving commissioners: Dr. Oyebanji Filani (Health and Human Services) and Mr. Akintunde Oyebode (Finance and Economic Development) while Oye local government area is already represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata, SAN.

The trio were sworn in alongside nine other Special Advisers shortly after Governor Oyebanji assumed office on October 16 last year.

The Speaker also announced the constitution of three three key committees pending the constitution of other standing committees of the House.

The committees constituted include Rules and Business which has the House Majority Leader, Hon. Tolu Ige as the Chairman and Deputy Majority Leader, Hon. Yomi Ayorinde as Vice Chairman. Other members of the Committee are Hon. Iyabo Fakunle-Okieimen, Hon. Ademola Ojo, Hon. Femi Akindele while the Assembly Clerk, Mr. Tola Esan would serve as the Secretary.

The House Committee on Media and Public Affairs has Hon. Babatunde Oke as Chairman and Hon. Lateef Akanle as Vice Chairman. Other members are Hon. Idowu Odebunmi, Hon. Bosede Olowookere, Hon. Femi Akindele

An Ad Hoc Committee on Legislative Agenda that would liaise with the State Executive Council to come up with Executive-Legislative Agenda was also constituted. The Committee is expected to prepare legislative agenda for the Seventh Assembly in concurrence with the executive arm of government.

It is chaired by Hon. Ayodeji Adegbite. Other members are Hon. Abimbola Solanke, Hon. Babatunde Oke, Hon. Omotayo Babatunde and Hon. Idowu Odebunmi. Mr. Bankole Ogunmosunle would serve as Secretary.

Also at the sitting, the Ekiti State Electric Power Sector Bill passed the First Reading while the Ekiti State Sports Commission Bill passed through the First and Second Readings.

After an exhaustive deliberation, Speaker Aribasoye committed the Ekiti State Sports Commission Bill 2023 to the Committee on Youths and Sports to be constituted very soon which is expected to report back to the House.

The motion for the adjournment of the sitting of the House to Monday, July 3 was moved by the Majority Leader, Hon. Tolu Ige and was seconded by Hon. Adeteju Okuyiga.

Ekiti Gov. Wife To unveil State Female Team's Jersey Wednesday.

Ekiti Gov. Wife To unveil State Female Team's Jersey Wednesday.

All roads lead to the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado Ekiti on Wednesday when the amiable wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji will be officially unveiling the jersey of the state Female Football team. Ekiti Queens.

The event which will begin at about 4pm will be an avenue for the governor's wife to reiterate the commitment of the BAO administration to youth development through sport.

She will also take the official kickoff of a friendly match between Ekiti Queens and Salem City Queens from Oye Ekiti which is one of the activities to brighten the jersey unveling.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Barrister Bamidele Arowosola says the jersey unveling is a sign of a new beginning for the female football team which has enjoyed remarkable attention and support from the governor wife since the assumption of office of governor Biodun Oyebanji.

On a bid to encourage female participation on sports, the governor had graciously purchased a slot for Ekiti Queens in the country's Women Football League Championship and also increased the club's monthly subvention. 

The Permanent Secretary urged  football stakeholders and lovers of the round leather game to come cheer the girls and show solidarity for the sports loving wife of the governor.

Secretary of Ekiti Queens football club, James Ayodele informed Newsmen that some major stakeholders have been invited from within and beyond the state including Deputy Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly,Mrs Bolaji Egbeyemi, former Permanent Secretary Ministry of Youth & Sport, Mrs Tola Faseluka, Ekiti State Football Association Chairman, chief Olu Oloworemo, former Sports Council Board Member, Hon Jumoke Arogundade as well as Okemesi-Ekiti born female football administrator based in Kwara state, Mrs Abimbola Olaoye (CEO of Olabims Queens Football Academy of ilorin) who is also the Kwara State coordinator of Miss Football Nigeria.

Ekiti Queens will hopefully compete with 10 other teams in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Championship between July 8 and 14.

Ekiti Queens and other female teams are expected to arrive on Friday July 7.

Ekiti Speaker Urges Youths To Shun Drugs Abuse.

Ekiti Speaker Urges Youths To Shun Drugs Abuse.

....Rallies support for Oyebanji to achieve shared prosperity.

The Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, has called on the youths in the state to refrain from drug abuse for them to realize their potentials and contribute meaningfully to societal development.

Rt. Hon. Aribasoye also charged all stakeholders in the state to join hands together and battle the menace of drug abuse to a standstill in order to have a saner society.

The Speaker made the remarks on Monday while receiving leaders and members of the state chapter of National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) who staged "Ekiti Youth Peace Walk" to the Assembly Complex as part of activities to mark this year's International Day Against Drug Abuse.

Rt. Hon. Aribasoye also used the opportunity of the interface to canvass support of the youths of the state for the Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, to enable him achieve his Shared Prosperity Agenda for the entire people of the state.

He specifically commended the youths for praising the giant strides of the Oyebanji Administration through the various banners and placards they carried during their procession and also appreciating the efforts of the Governor in their remarks.

The Speaker who was joined by other lawmakers in the Assembly to receive the NYCN team also advised the youths to be part of governance by sponsoring private bills for consideration by the state legislature in critical areas that affect them especially in policy formulation and decision making.

He said the Assembly would like the youth body to do the spadework on a Roadmap to Youth Development in Ekiti State which would incorporate vital areas that concerns the youth like political ascendancy, job creation, economic empowerment, among others.

The Speaker also disclosed the readiness of the Seventh Assembly to come up with a law that would prohibit smoking in public places noting that "public smoking does not only affect the smokers but also affects non-smokers."

Speaking on the effects of drug abuse on the youths, Rt. Hon. Aribasoye regretted that abuse of hard drugs has had a negative effect on the youths urging all concerned individuals, authorities, institutions and bodies to come together and halt the trend in the interest of the youths and their future.

He said: "Today, as you have observed, is the International Day Against Drug Abuse. One of the things that have destroyed the future of the youths is drug abuse and all of us must be ambassadors, all of us must be champions to campaign against drug abuse.

"Anywhere we find ourselves, we must campaign against drug abuse. We just have to do it for us to have a saner society, we must campaign against drug abuse, it is very, very important.

"Drug abuse has affected many lives and destroyed destinies. God has give our youths talents to positively affect their generation and we must not allow drug abuse to hinder them from realizing their potentials. 

"Very soon, we are coming up with a law against public smoking. Public smoking does not only affect the smokers but those who don't smoke who must be protected from the effects of public smoking."

The Speaker further charged the youths to come together as a united force calling all tendencies in the youth movement to come under one umbrella in the interest of the youths of the state.

He promised that when the standing committees of the Assembly are put in place, the Youth Committee would work hand-in-hand with NYCN to protect the interest of the youths and assist them to get the best in the scheme of things in the state.

Speaking earlier, the state NYCN Chairman, Mr. Oluwasegun Famuyibo, pledged the support of the body and entire youths of the state for the Oyebanji Administration which he described as "youth-friendly."

Mr. Famuyibo commended Governor Oyebanji for creating Ministry of Youths and Job Creation which he described as bold step to give the young generation better welfare and tackle youth unemployment in the state.

He also hailed the Oyebanji Administration for various infrastructure projects that are going on in the state especially road construction and rehabilitation, empowerment of the less privileged, improvement of grassroots economy, among others.

Mr. Famuyibo craved the support of the House of Assembly for the implementation of Ekiti Youth Policy which has its centrepiece how youths can benefit from various MDAs, provision of jobs, entrepreneurship development, empowerment, among other benefits.

The state NYCN chief said the youths of the state are against hard drugs and would continue to mount strident advocacy against the menace in collaboration with relevant agencies of government and other stakeholders.

He also presented the action plan of the NYCN to the Speaker for further scrutiny and implementation.

The procession to the Assembly Complex was joined by NYCN leadership and delegates from other states in the Southwest.

Oyebanji urges Ekiti youths to embrace agribusiness.

Oyebanji urges Ekiti youths to embrace agribusiness.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has said that his government would put all machinery in motion to encourage youths in the state to engage in agricultural business to help boost the state economy and the food security agenda of his administration.

The Governor, who stated this on Friday while on a working tour of some agricultural projects in Ado- Ekiti, said he was impressed with the resolve of some youths to embrace agriculture full time, stressing that one day, they too would become employers of labour.

The project visited by the Governor include: The Livestock Development Centre, which provides platform for the Ekiti Broiler Production Scheme; A-Bamsil Industrial Factory , a palm kernel processing plant; and JMK Rice Mill, said government alone cannot fund agriculture, hence, the need for improved public, private partnership to reposition the economy of the state.

He said his administration would build platforms and institutions aimed at collaborating with private sector players to open up space for Ekiti people to apply their expertise in the drive to ensure everyone lives wel. The Governor, who addressed some of the youth participating in the broilers Scheme,  promised to remove all forms of constraints in doing business in the state.

The Governor who said that Agriculture plays very significant roles in the economy stated  that agriculture has the capacity to employ thousands of youths, make them enjoy vibrant and profitable means of livelihood and enhance the economy of the state.

According to him, “Part of our plan is to encourage our young ones to go back to farm. The Broiler scheme for our youths is a pilot scheme and I’m so impressed that our young ones are now showing interest in agriculture and it speaks to one of our agenda on agriculture, job creation and youth development. And by God’s grace, once this one is stabilized, we intend to expand it, the beauty of this project is the fact that government will hand-hold them through the whole process of production.

“There is also a guaranteed market to off-take from this. Once they master what they are doing, they will be given a pen of their own that will belong to them, from which they too can employ labour and make money and it speaks to our shared prosperity agenda.

“We have to accept the fact that government alone cannot do everything and for wealth to go round and for jobs to be created, there must be platforms and institutions collaborating with private sector to open the space for many people to do a lot. What we are doing today is just one of the interventions in the agricultural sector, we are going to do this in other sectors to ensure that we get platforms and institutions and policies that will allow everybody to plying their trade in Ekiti State to do well and we will remove all the inhibitions towards doing business in Ekiti State.

“So, it is a policy that we have now agreed on. We have spent the last six months to understudy and understand the problem in that sector because, we want to intervene from an informed perspective, and we are not doing trial by error.”, the governor added.

Conducting the Governor round the JMK Rice Mill, the General Manager, Mr Lanre Solaja expressed his appreciation to the Governor for the visit. He said  when fully operational, the mill has the capacity to produce 160 metric tons of rice per day.

The Managing Director of A-Bamsil industry, Mr Idowu Owoyomi, who said the factory is capable of refining 250 metric tons of palm kernel, highlighted some of the products the factory is capable of processing to include cooking oil, cosmetics, oil for perfumes, soap among others.

Airport Project: Oyebanji assures famers of adequate compensation for acquired farmland.

Airport Project: Oyebanji assures famers of adequate compensation for acquired farmland.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has assured farmers whose farmland and produce were affected by the Ekiti Airport project that the state government would adequately compensate them.

Governor Oyebanji gave the assurance on Friday, when he met with the aggrieved farmers in his office in Ado Ekiti. The Governor appreciated the farmers for not resulting into violence in a bid to express their grievances.

The meeting was called to address issues of adequate compensation raised by the farmers during a recent protest in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.

Stating that government was not unmindful of the fact that the farmland was their source of income, he assured them that government would work out just and proper compensation for them.

The Governor added that government would sit down with the farmers and work out modalities it will adopt in paying them since government may not be able pay the money at once. 

“Let me first thank you for the step you took, you did not fight, you only resulted to a peaceful protest and I’m very happy about that. What that is teaching us is that each time we have disagreement, we should not destroy things, we should sit down together for dialogue.

“This matter is not difficult, what you are saying is not that you don’t want to cooperate with government to develop that place, you are only saying your right should be given to you, I have heard you. We will look into it and we will see how we are going to go about it because government may not be able to pay everything at once but we will sit down with you and work out how to pay it in batches so that everybody will get paid, the Governor said."

Earlier in his remark, the Edemo of Igbemo Ekiti, Chief Ojo Awe who spoke on behalf of the aggrieved farmers, thanked Governor Oyebanji for granting them audience, stressing that the Governor is indeed a compassionate leader who care about his people.

Chief Edemo, lamented that the farmers in the nine affected communities whose lands were acquired for the airport project, have lost huge amount of money they invested on the crops. He therefore urged the Government to address their grievances and pay them their compensation.

Oyebanji doles Out over N9m to vulnerable citizens.

Oyebanji doles Out over N9m to vulnerable citizens.

 .... urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the privilege given to them.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has doled out over nine million naira to some vulnerable citizens who sought assistance from the state government.

The beneficiaries who were at the Governor’s Office, in Ado—Ekiti went home with varying amount of money and working tools for their crafts. 

Presenting the cash and tools to the beneficiaries, the Senior Special Assistant, Governor's Office, Mrs Sola Abe said the gesture from the Governor was to ensure that poverty is eradicate from the society.

Mrs. Abe said that part of the gesture include payment of hospital bills, working tools and financial assistance for setting up businesses for those interested in business.

She urged the beneficiaries to make good use of the privilege given to them by the Governor to improve their well-being.

Also the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso-Omotosho said that selection of the beneficiaries had no no political considerations, but based on needs. 

According to her, Governor Oyebanji put in place the program to help the less privilege.

This is a rare opportunity that not all  government does, even citizens from other states are requesting to be part of Mr Governor's largesse, this goes on to mean that what Governor Oyebanji is doing here gets to other states. 

“This is a personal decision on the part of the Governor to reach out to the less privilege. It is a promise he made within himself to see to the welfare of the ordinary citizens.

Some if the beneficiaries including Omotayo Olawale, Azeez Imsail Owolabi, Akomolafe Bosede commended the gesture of the Governor to provide means of livelihood to the citizens.

Ekiti Police arrest two for stealing diesel from government generating plant.

Ekiti Police arrest two for stealing diesel from government generating plant.

Operatives of the Ekiti State Police Command on Tuesday arrested two suspects involved in stealing of diesel from the generating plants used in powering street lights in Ado Ekiti, the state capital.

Briefing journalists on the arrest, in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Sunday Abutu, said the two suspects, Joseph Danjuma and Bankola Idowu, were arrested by men of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) along NTA Road, while trying to get away with a 25 litre gallon containing diesel suspected to have been stolen from the generating set.

The Police Spokesperson said the suspects confessed during interrogation that they committed the crime, adding that they would be arraigned in due course. 

According to him, the suspects also confessed that they have been selling the stolen diesel to unsuspecting residents of Ado-Ekiti, for some time. 

DSP Abutu therefore called on residents of the state to always be security conscious, and endeavor to report any untoward incident around them to security operatives so as to take necessary actions.

Nigerian Health Workers Honour Oyebanji With 'Most Labour Friendly Governor Award.

Nigerian Health Workers Honour Oyebanji With 'Most Labour Friendly Governor Award 

..…Governor Reiterates Commitment to Workers' Welfare. 

The Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP) has honoured Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji with the Most Labour Friendly Governor Award for giant strides he had so far made in bettering the Workers' standard of living 

The award was bestowed on Governor Oyebanji at the 8th Quadriennial National Delegates' Conference of NUAHP in Abuja where he was the Special Guest of Honour and Award Recipient.

The Governor was invited to grace the Opening Ceremony of the Conference  with the theme: "Alarming Brain Drain in Nigeria's Health Sector: Need for Emergency Rescue."

The NUAHP said the award was "in recognition of Governor Oyebanji's good industrial relations policy and appointment of members of the union into his cabinet in Ekiti State."

The Governor who was represented by the Commissioner, Ministry of Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, promised not to relent in his commitment to the welfare of health professionals and workers in general in the state.

Expressing his delight at being recognized for the award ,Governor Oyebanji said the honour would spur him to give priority to the health needs of the people of Ekiti State in the areas of ensuring better facilities at health institutions and boosting the morale of workers.

Governor Oyebanji noted that his passion has always been to make life meaningful for the Ekiti citizenry noting that he would always do his best to realize the objective within the available resources of the state.

He further reiterated his commitment to the welfare of workers generally across the state especially in ensuring prompt payment of salaries, offsetting the arrears of benefits, capacity building, among others.

The Conference was attended by over 600 union members from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory.

Membership of the delegates was drawn from the following professions at the primary, secondary and tertiary health institutions in the country: Pharmacy, Medical Laboratory Science, Physiotherapy, Health Information Management, Radiography, Dietetics, Dental Technology Occupation Therapy, Nutrition, Social Work, Speech Therapy, Dental Therapy, Optometry, Clinical Psychology, Prosthetics/Orthotics, Medical Physic, Audiology, EEG and EGC  specialists, among others.

Oyebanji Thanks President Tinubu Over Alake, Olanrewaju's Appointments.

Oyebanji Thanks President Tinubu Over Alake, Olanrewaju's Appointments.

....described the duo as experienced, capable and hardworking ready to promote the nation developments. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointments of two illustrious citizens of the state- Mr Dele Alake as Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communication and Strategy and Hon Ibrahim Olanrewaju, as Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (House of Representatives).

Governor Oyebanji who described the duo of Alake and Olanrewaju as “very experienced, hardworking and capable”, said he was happy the President found them worthy of such significant positions in his government.

The Governor, in a statement by his Special Adviser (Media), Yinka Oyebode, said he is optimistic that the former lawmaker would excel in his new role as the President’s Liaison Officer in the National Assembly, giving his antecedence as a decent and pragmatic politician and lawmaker, who served as Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Agriculture and Production Services as well as member of the Defence, Judiciary, Environment and Justice committees in the 9th House of Representatives under the Speakership of Rt. Hon Femi Gbajabiamila.

While congratulating Hon Olarewaju Kunle Ibrahim  on the new appointment, which he described as a notable recognition of his steadfastness, political maturity and high level integrity, Governor Oyebanji urged him to deploy his energy, contact, tact and political sagacity in building an excellent working relationship between the National Assembly and the Presidency, a development he said is crucial to the country’s political stability.

Similarly, Governor Oyebanji said Alake’s wealth of experience as a Veteran journalist, prolific writer, media manager, pro- democracy activist and political communication strategist would add a great value to the administration’s commitment to run a people-oriented government, where effective communication with the citizenry is very key.    

He described the Ikoro-Ekiti born Alake as a highly decorated journalist and communication strategist who has continued to demonstrate great capacity for communication strategies and perception management since his role as a  Communication Adviser to the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola in the nineties; his eight years stint as Commissioner for Information and Strategy during the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration in Lagos State and his recent role as Communication Adviser during the presidential campaigns, with outstanding performance.

 “This is a call to serve and I trust the duo of Alake and Olanrewaju’s capacities to make huge success of the new assignments the way they have done in previous assignments given to them. 

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to the President for this great honour and recognition accorded our brothers- Mr Dele Alake and Hon Kunle Ibrahim Olarewaju . 

“Hearty congratulations to them on the new appointments. We wish them success as they deploy their energy, contacts, wealth of experience and political sagacity in repositioning their respective offices for excellent service delivery in the overall interest of the country”, the Governor said.

Local Government Autonomy Bill Will Give Room For Grassroots Development~ Public Analyst.

Local Government Autonomy Bill Will Give Room For Grassroots Development~ Public Analyst. 

....Urge President Bola Tinubu To Implement Local Government Autonomy Bill.

By; Omo Imam Adekunle

I would like to begin by congratulating you once again as our President of The Greatest, Most Populated, Youthful, Innovative and Industrious Black Nation on earth. It is my sincere belief that your tenure will herald a new era of development and progress for our great nation.

As a patriotic citizen, my role does not end at the poll. My roles extend to supporting our elected leaders and providing my socio-economic advisory services to elected leaders at all levels of public leadership. Most importantly, as the attention of every Nigerians is now on you as our president. For someone like me who is your ardent supporter who not only voted for you but crossed miles and build relationships with others to mobilize, orientate and ignite our immediate communities to also vote for you. Mr. President, while others saw your weakness in their own view, I am among millions of Nigerians who saw your strength and message of hope even before the primary election.

Thus, I am proud to call you my President, and in general contexts; MR. PRESIDENT.

Mr. President, I write to you today to appeal to your sense of justice and fairness in implementing the Local Government Autonomy Bill that has been pending for many years. We believe that the implementation of this bill is crucial for the development of our local communities and the nation at large.

As you are aware, the Local Government Autonomy Bill seeks to grant local governments financial and administrative independence from state governments. This would enable them to function effectively and efficiently, and to provide essential services to their constituents.

The local governments are the closest tier of government to the people, and they are responsible for providing basic services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. However, due to their dependence on state governments for funding and other resources, they have been unable to fulfill their responsibilities effectively.

The current system, where state governments control the allocation of funds and resources to local governments, has led to the underdevelopment of many communities. The implementation of local government autonomy is crucial for the development of Nigeria. With autonomy, local governments will be able to determine their priorities and allocate resources accordingly. This will lead to the development of infrastructure, provision of basic amenities, and improved social services in local communities.

Furthermore, local government autonomy will promote transparency and accountability in the management of public funds. Currently, state governments are known to divert funds meant for local governments, leading to the underdevelopment of these communities. With autonomy, local governments will be able to manage their funds and be held accountable for their actions.

Mr. President, I must acknowledged that the 9th National Assembly has done great work in respect to this subject matter, the leadership of both chambers has put together the legislative framework for implementation of local government autonomy. With another step forward, the national assembly has held a joint session comprises of speakers of all states house of assembly to pass this bill down to their state Governor. But, while some Governors has welcomed this people-oriented bill with an open hand, others have withheld their support for it. I do not want to assume their rationale behind their action.

Hopefully, I am confident in you as a pragmatic leader, development experts with track record of grassroot development through effective local government and local council administration. Mr, President, I urge you to give urgent attention to this matter and ensure that the Local Government Autonomy Bill is implemented as soon as possible. This will empower local governments to function independently and efficiently, and to provide better services to the people.

Sir, in addition to the presence of the speaker of the 9th assembly with you as your chief of staff and with the commitment of the 10th assembly leadership and her honorable members and distinguished senators willing to put hands on deck alongside with the recently elected state governors with you on your mission to renew the hope of every Nigerians, it is time to renew our hope of Local Government Autonomy. 

Mr. President, I urge you to give urgent attention to this matter and ensure that the Local Government Autonomy Bill is implemented as soon as possible.

Mr. President, collectively as Nigerians who have no other place to call home, we trust that you will give due consideration to this plea and take the necessary steps to ensure the full implementation of the Local Government Autonomy Bill. We believe that this will be a significant step towards the development of our nation and the improvement of the living standards of our people.

Yours citizens sincerely. 

Adewumi sikiru adekunle Popularly and politically addressed as Omo Imam Adekunle  

Impenitent BAO Disciples 

Apostle of Good Governance.

Oyebanji, a rare type of leader, says Sen Ojudu.

Oyebanji, a rare type of leader, says Sen Ojudu.

.…Urges support for BAO administration.

A former Senator representing Ekiti Central Senatorial District, Senator Babafemi Ojudu on Monday described the leadership quality of Ekiti state Governor Biodun Oyebanji as a rare type in the annals of the state, stressing that the Governor’s style of seeking advice from all leaders irrespective of political leaning is unprecedented.

Senator Ojudu, the erstwhile Special Adviser to former President Mohammadu Buhari on Political Matters, who was on a courtesy visit to the Governor also commended Governor Oyebanji for his excellent performance since assuming office. 

He said the policies of the Oyebanji administration have really impacted Ekiti people positively.

Briefing journalists after he had a closed door meeting with the Governor, Senator Ojudu said the feedback from all the critical stakeholders in the state was a cheering one, adding that the Governor’s ability to creatively gather resources for aggressive developmental programmes was highly commendable.

“Everything that has come out here since he became Governor has been positive, I have been around for five days and people have been coming to my house, APC, PDP and a few Labour people also came and then is like we have a one-party state. 

“It just appears that he’s serving the people and he’s serving them well.

“One day I learnt he was in Ikere meeting with the physically challenged people and promising them all the facilities that would make life better for them, these are positive signals and again reaching out to leaders, those who supported him and those who did not, leaders of opposition parties, all of that for me is the essence of leadership.

“I have met with some Kings since I came back and the kind of things I had them say is cheering, both the elite, the poor, the holy people, everybody seems to be happy and the fact that he has been able to be creative enough to find resources to do some of the things that have brought them active also for me is a plus for his excellency.” The former Senator said. 

While speaking on how he intends to contribute to the success of the Oyebanji led-administration, Senator Ojudu said “I will be coming here once in a while to be giving the Governor the people’s feedback from both within and outside the state on what the people are saying and since am not looking for an appointment, I believe his doors will be open for me and also reach out to other Ekiti people outside Nigeria who can add value to all of us here so that we can have a better place for all of us.” He added.

The Lawmaker urged the Governor to continue with his good work, saying his aspiration and goal to make life better for the people of the state has been achieved by the Oyebanji led-administration.

In his remarks, Governor Oyebanji, who said he was excited to have the former lawmaker in his office expressed appreciation to all leaders in the state for their collaborative efforts at repositioning the state for improved welfare and shared prosperity and thanked them for reposing so much confidence and trust in his government. He promised not to take their support for granted.

The Governor added, “I’ve been blessed with the support of nearly all the leaders in Ekiti State and I’m not taking that support for granted. And I’m grateful to God for the benefit of having them to guide me.”

Ekiti Speaker Seeks Collaboration With Lawyer's To Promote Security, Welfare Of Citizens.

Ekiti Speaker Seeks Collaboration With Lawyer's To Promote Security, Welfare Of Citizens.

...Urged legal practitioners to uphold rule of law to promote the common goals of people.

The Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, has urged lawyers to collaborate with the legislature to find lasting solution to security challenges in the country.

Rt. Hon. Aribasoye who made the remarks on Monday while declaring open the Annual Law Week of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ikere Branch described lawyers as important partners with the legislature in the quest for safety and security of the citizenry.

The Speaker who declared the Ikere NBA Law Week open said the theme of the event, "Security and People's Welfare in Nigeria's Democratic Experience: Leveraging the Legal Practice as a Catalyst" was very apt and timely said lawyers are well positioned to proffer innovative strategies to address the security challenges already identified.

He also called on the legal practitioners to uphold rule of law and promote the common goals of people as they have unique role to play in advocating for justice and welfare of society.

Rt. Hon. Aribasoye said: "Our state, Ekiti, like many other states in Nigeria, is facing significant challenges on the areas of security and welfare and I am happy to see legal practitioners coming together to explore ways to leverage their expertise towards finding lasting solutions to these challenges.

"The legal profession has always been a key partner in the quest for justice, equity and the rule of law in our society. Lawyers have a unique role to play in advocating for the rights and interests of the people, upholding the law and promoting the common goal in the face of current challenges facing our nation.

"It is even more important that we work together to find innovative ways to address these challenges. This is why I am calling on lawyers who have a lot to do particularly with us in the House of Assembly.

"You all know that to re-engineer our society, good laws have to be in place and we need lawyers to collaborate with is to find innovative ways to address the challenges we have all identified.

"How do we confront these challenges? There is need for us to collaborate and I am confident that this Law Week will provide a platform for legal practitioners to share experiences, discuss the best practices and explore innovative solutions to the issues of security and people's welfare in Nigeria."

In her keynote Address, the president, Customary Court of Appeal, Ekiti State, Hon. Justice Monisola Abodunde, charged legal practitioners to be catalyst by using law as a tool for development in the society.

She solicited for the cooperation of House under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Aribasoye in impacting people's life through effective legislations and initiating the process of reviewing old laws for the benefit of people.

Earlier, the Chairman, Nigerian Bar Association, Ikere Ekiti Branch, Dr. Michael Afolayan stressed the need for the lawyers to complement Government's effort by unleashing their skills and potentials in resolving issues of injustice in the society.

Ekiti Airport Saga: Ekiti Farmers Takes Protest To Governor's Office Demands Compensation.

Ekiti Airport Saga: Ekiti Farmers Takes Protest To Governor's Office Demands Compensation.

.....Says Ex Governor Fayemi Lied, accuses AVM Ojuawo and Awotiku of shortchanging them.

Farmers whose lands were affected by the ongoing Ekiti Airport Project on Monday staged a protest at the Governors office Premises in Ado Ekiti the state capital. The farmers drawn across all the towns and villages of  Igbemo, Orun, Afao, ijan, Igbogun, Bolorunduro, Iwajo, Aso and Ago Aduloju comprising of Ado, Irepodun/Ifelodun and Gbonyin local governments respectively.  

The aged farmers  thronged the Governor's office to  appeal to Governor Abayomi Oyebanji to please come to their aid and pay the compensation promised them by the government.

The protesters  converged  around 9:00.am with placards with words  " Fayemi Lied to Us, Oyebanji Please Save Our lives, The Airport Project Took Our livelihood " amongst others to drive home their requests.

Speaking to Newsmen, Speaking on behalf of the aggrieved farmers, High Chief Awe Ojo, the Edemo of Igbemo land  frowned at the insensitivity of ex governor Kayode Fayemi whom he accused of shortchanging majority of the farmers affected by the project.

" Fayemi during the inauguration even confirmed that Majority of us have not been paid our entitlements, very few of us received the money promised after the meeting and since then the rest of us have been totally neglected. Fayemi promised to pay remaining money but unfortunately we don't know what happened to it before he left office"

Chief Edemo also maintained that the affected farmers are more in numbers than those that came out today but majority who are old and aged cannot make the tiring journey to Ado Ekiti.

" We are also here on behalf of those old men and women who could not join us today due to their failing health. It is not until they die that they should receive what is rightfully theirs, we know Governor Abayomi Oyebanji to be a man with a kind heart and a listening and that is why we are here today to appeal to him to please

 come to our aid."

Other members of the affected communities also expressed their hope that the Governor will surely attend to their demands.

They accused AVM Ojuawo and Awotiku of shortchanging them in the process and stalled all their efforts to see the governor. The Edemo who spoke in Yoruba lamented that some people acted fraudulently while serving as intermediaries between the government and the farmers.

" Ojuawo and Awotiku were not sincere in their dealings with us, they inserted some unknown names and certified them to collect some money we want the general public to know that we don't know such persons none of us answers PO, AZ or ZT in our midst. It was a fraudulent act perpetrated by the those who served as intermediaries between us and the government" the Edemo concluded.

Addressing the protesters, the Chief executive secretary for Land and Housing Mr.Adedayo Olajide appeased the farmers while assuring them that the Governor Mr. Oyebanji is aware of their predicament and ready to attend to their needs. He also assured the farmers of the state government readiness to ensure the entitlement is paid as soon as possible.

Reacting to the allegations of the farmers that some unknown persons with names like AZ, PO, ZT were fraudulently involved during the first payment has been discovered and removed and as such nobody collected for such authorized names.

It will be recalled that the farmers had in the past months protested at the site of the Airport while the then Governor of Ekiti state John Kayode Fayemi promised to look into the case of those that are yet to be paid their entitlements.

The Farmers visibly in tears passionately appealed to the state government to urgently attend to their demands as some of those affected have started dying.

𝗪𝗛𝗢 𝗜𝗦 𝗢𝗟𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗥 𝗗𝗘 𝗖𝗢𝗤𝗨𝗘.

𝗪𝗛𝗢 𝗜𝗦 𝗢𝗟𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗥 𝗗𝗘 𝗖𝗢𝗤𝗨𝗘

....Oliver De Coque was nicknamed Sunday Oyibo.

Oliver De Coque is a gifted guitarist, prolific composer and highlife musician, Oliver De Coque was truly a symbol of creativity, peace, charity and friendship.

His giant statue with his trademark guitar stands tall in the heart of Ezinifite, a town in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra State. But Oliver Sunday Akanite, aka Oliver De Coque is also a telling example of genuine love and popularity among members of his community and fans. In Anambra State, two communities bear Ezinifite. One is in Aguata Local Government Area while the other, where Oliver De Coque hailed from, is now closely associated with the musician for distinguishing purposes. Usually, the recurring question is: are you going to Ezinifite in Aguata or Oliver De Coque’s Ezinifite?

For a first time visitor to his home town, this fame and reverence begin from Abanato Market Square in Ezinifite where Oliver’s imposing statue stands. Finally, this engaging highlife musician was unveiled by Gaius, one of his younger brothers who speaks about his brother’s mystical birth, his extraordinary life, their supernatural mother, the creativity that runs in the family and a fertile musical career that recorded over 72 works.  

According to Gaius, when Oliver De Coque was born, he was nicknamed Sunday Oyibo because of his white European features like his complexion and curly hair.

Like most children in the community, he attended Ezinifite Central Primary School before proceeding to a commercial school known then as Eastern Academy in Aba, Abia State. However, he dropped out after a few years due to his poor family background even though he had a promising academic future ahead of him. Shortly after leaving Eastern Academy, he went straight into selling shoes at Ekeoma Market in Aba. From there, he learnt guitar and branched out when the urge to develop and showcase his skills as a musician became unbearable.   

Coming from a creative family where imagination thrives, Oliver De Coque had a smooth ride transiting from education and shoe business to music. However, he met a road block when extended family members and friends back home, started mocking his parents for endorsing music as a first child’s career choice. Naturally, a meeting was held and a search and rescue party headed by Oliver’s father was dispatched to Aba. Eventually when his father got to the commercial city, he met his son performing confidently before a big crowd. Immediately, he changed his mind and returned home to share the good news. That was how Oliver De Coque became a regular fixture at naming and burial ceremonies. He was also engaged at other social and cultural events, not only in Aba but in other parts of the old Eastern Region. From his growing clientele and fan base, a career began in earnest.  

“But I must say that at the beginning, nobody gave him any chance. They even mocked him the more because of his skinny size. Those who vehemently opposed his choice of music, including  Chief Duru Egwuchukwu Nzediegwu had argued that nobody ever became rich or successful through music. In fact, Nzediegwu who loved palm wine a great deal did everything possible to discourage Oliver De Coque. But when Oliver asked him if he would ever stop drinking palm wine, he responded, saying palm wine was his life. At this point, Oliver also told him to his face that he would never stop playing music because music was also his life. That was how the matter died a natural death”, Gaius discloses. 

Gaius also sheds light on his brother’s mystical birth and their mother’s spiritual powers as a healer and diviner. “Our mother was a spiritualist who was well known for seeing into the future. Oliver De Coque stayed 10 months in my mother’s belly before he came out. Before he was eventually delivered, a native doctor from Ihiala Local Government had informed my mother that the baby in her tummy was talking and holding a metal gong (a musical instrument) and staff of office (ofor) in his two hands”, he says. 

At this point, it had become clear to everyone that baby Oliver who was declared a musician and native doctor at birth, had a rendezvous with music and destiny. Eventually when he returned after kick-starting his music career, his mother took away the staff of office which symbolized mysticism and gave him a gong (Ogene) for his music and life.  

That appointment with music and providence started yielding fruits when he joined a certain Jonny, a musician in Lagos, a trip that was made possible with the sale of his father’s precious Raleigh Bicycle. After studying guitar under Jonny, he joined different musical groups before eventually traveling to the United Kingdom in 1975. Interestingly, that trip overseas turned Oliver’s life around. Apart from the fact that he was the only band member apart from the band leader who returned to Nigeria, the journey also came with exposure and opportunities. 

The following year, he formed Oliver De Coque and His Expo ’76, Ogene Sound Super of Africa. With his debut, Messiah Messiah, success came knocking almost immediately. But before the triumph that came with Messiah Messiah, Oliver De Coque had tested the bitter pill of failure and disappointment. For many years, he was a local Ekpili minstrel, a hopeless migrant singing and moving from place to place. He later became a reggae musician but also failed woefully. After struggling for a long time with Ekeoha Fire Disaster, his earliest Demo, respite finally came when Olumo Records accepted him. As they say, the rest is now history. 

Oliver De Coque was loved by many people across Nigeria. He was a personal friend of Oba Lamidi Adeyemi 111, the great Alaafin of Oyo. He also bagged a chieftaincy title in Oyo, the Yoruba historical town where the Alaafin reigns. 

However, Azuh Arinze, a journalist and author of many books captures Oliver’s generosity and good nature. In a tribute, Remembering Highlife Maestro, Oliver De Coque, Azuh recalls his unforgettable encounter with his good friend, the guitarist many years ago during the celebrated traditional marriage between Bianca Onoh, Ex-Miss Intercontinental and Chukwuemeka Odimegwu Ojukwu, Ikemba Nnewi, at Ngwo, Enugu State.

“Already on stage as I sauntered in, he beckoned on me to share his electrifying stage with him. Resting one of his hands on my shoulder, he so sang my praise that I didn’t know when I started spraying my transport fare. Sensing perhaps that I was spraying more than I should, under normal circumstance, he pulled me closer and whispered into my ears: “Don’t worry, see me after my performance for all the money you sprayed. Plus my ‘own’ and we burst into laughter. True to his words, he shocked me as soon as he was through by fulfilling his promise. That gesture, I must confess, so humbled me even as a young reporter that I will eternally cherish the memories”. 

Oliver De Coque was great in every way and he will always be remembered for his laughter and cheerfulness. He composed meaningful and melodious songs that are rich in proverbs and everyday realities and challenges. Great songs that were inspired by love, marriage, life, identity, good neighborliness, charity, relationships and accomplishments. He was indeed, one of Africa’s most prolific musicians. His most popular works include: Father Father, Ana Enwe Obodo Enwe, People’s Club, Biri ka Mbiri, Abada, Mama and Papa, Opportunity and Esi Nuno Di Nma, among many others.