Ekiti State Paramilitary Games To Foster Unity and Cooperation Among Security Agencies.

Ekiti State Paramilitary Games To Foster Unity and Cooperation Among Security Agencies.

By: Olamide Akinwumi.

In an effort to strengthen collaboration and promote camaraderie among the various security agencies in Ekiti State, the much-anticipated Ekiti State Paramilitary Games commenced yesterday July 15, 2023.  The event aims to create a friendly atmosphere within the security corridor and enhance synergy among the participating agencies. Organized by the Ekiti State Government, the games witnessed the enthusiastic participation of numerous prominent security organizations in the state.

Among the agencies involved in this exciting competition were the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Immigration Services, Nigeria Correctional Services, Nigeria Security & Civil Defense Corps, Federal Fire Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, Peace Corps of Nigeria, Western Security Network (Amotekun Corps), Ekiti Peace Corps, and Agbekoya Peace Movement Corps. Each agency showcased their skills and abilities in a range of competitive events throughout the day.

Second Round table of the competition. 

The opening ceremony was a vibrant and colorful affair, as representatives from each agency marched proudly onto the field, displaying their unity and dedication to their respective roles in safeguarding Ekiti State. The event was graced by several high-ranking officials, and officers in the State, who commended the initiative and emphasized the importance of collaboration in maintaining peace and security within the region.

Match Officials In Action. 

Over the course of the day, participants engaged in various disciplines, including relay races, obstacle courses, marksmanship challenges, and tug of war. These activities not only showcased the physical prowess of the security personnel but also highlighted their coordination, teamwork, and strategic thinking abilities. The competition was fierce but friendly, with an atmosphere of mutual respect prevailing throughout the day.

The spectators, including family, friends, and colleagues of the participants, enthusiastically cheered on their favorite teams, contributing to the energetic ambiance of the event.

The Ekiti State Paramilitary Games is set to continue throughout the week, culminating in a grand closing ceremony on July 22, 2023. The final ceremony promises to be a fitting end to this week-long celebration of unity, cooperation, and the tireless efforts of the security agencies in Ekiti State. The winners will be recognized for their outstanding performances and awarded with accolades to honor their dedication and commitment to the safety and well-being of the state's citizens.

Group Photograph of Spectators Watching Ongoing Match.

This remarkable event not only provides a platform for healthy competition but also fosters stronger relationships and mutual understanding among the security agencies in Ekiti State. By joining forces and promoting teamwork, these organizations aim to further enhance their effectiveness in combating crime and ensuring the overall security of the state.

The Ekiti State Paramilitary Games serve as a shining example of the positive impact that collaboration and synergy can have on the security landscape. As the games continue, the participants will undoubtedly inspire and motivate one another, reinforcing the shared commitment to safeguarding Ekiti State and fostering a peaceful and secure environment for all its residents.

Governor Oyebanji Extols Father's Influence on His Leadership Journey.

Governor Oyebanji Extols Father's Influence on His Leadership Journey.

....Says political cord with Senate Leader strong, unbreakable.

.....Celebrates dad at 90.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, on Saturday, described his father, Pa Ezekiel Oyebanji, as a man who places great value on honesty, integrity, humility, hardwork and self -discipline, virtues which, according to him, have helped in shaping his own personality. 

The Governor also stated that those who have been speculating over possible political crisis between him and the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele will be grossly  disappointed, adding that the cord of their relationship stands strong and unbreakable. 

Governor Oyebanji spoke on Saturday, during a thanksgiving service held at the First Baptist Church, Ikogosi Ekiti, marking the 90th birthday celebration of his father, who is a retired school principal. 

Shedding light on his simplicity and humble approach to life, Governor Oyebanji stated that his father contributed immensely to his spiritual growth, which had buoyed his faith in God, as the only one with the capacity to provide solution to all life’s challenges. 

Giving reasons for the decision of the family to have a low key celebration devoid of any formal invitation to anyone, Governor Oyebanji said it was in line with the family’s modest manner of doing things, coupled with the fact he, as the Governor of the state, has to live by example. 

The Governor said: "I would have loved to make the birthday elaborate, but I have to make it a low key for the fact that Ekiti people are currently  my employer, so I have to behave responsibly. I have to be cautious and circumspect in whatever I  do. 

" If I wasn’t a governor, I would have celebrated  him more than this. We deliberately did not send out invitation card to anyone so that Baba can have a modest celebration with his friends and family members. But somehow people heard and turned up to honour our father”.

 Speaking regarding his father's virtuous life, Oyebanji stated: "Those who are saying I am humble should blame my father for it. He is the one who thought me to be humble. I have no apologies about that. If I have misbehaved as a Governor, my father would have called to caution me. He is such a disciplinarian and would waste no time in correcting me even as a sitting Governor”. 

Speaking regarding his political future, Oyeabanji said he has no enemy to fight and that those postulating that he and Senator Bamidele would soon clash would be disappointed. 

"The two of us are first and foremost friends and brothers, we believe in God as the sole determinant of the future and we are also highly experienced politicians who  have committed our political future in the hands of God. So, stop speculating about any war between us.

"God is the Alpha and Omega of human beings, He does things at his own will. God is the decider of our fate. I want to tell you clearly that nothing can separate me from Senator Bamidele. We have built a strong relationship over the years, so politics can't separate us".   

In his remarks at the thanksgiving service, the celebrant, Pa Oyebanji, said his strong belief in scholarship as a weapon to overcome poverty, propelled him to acquire western education through hardwork and resoluteness.

Pa Oyebanji appreciated God for being alive to celebrate 90, and still standing tall in good health to contribute to the growth of education in his community, state and the country at large.

 "When I finished my Primary six, my father loved all his children, but he didn't have money to send us to school.  I was farming with him, but I loved education and I was determined to acquire it at all costs, which I later did. 

"What I know is that whoever that is not focused and hardworking can't succeed in life. It was these principles that led me to study for my GCE as a private candidate. It was this that gave me admission into the university. Our youths must know that those who made it to the top struggled in life to get there. So, they must work hard to rise and succeed". 

The nonagenarian father of the Governor  also charged parents to invest hugely in their children's  education  to make their future brighter, more rewarding and glowingly remarkable.

“That was what I did that paid off today. I took the upkeep of my children with passion. I didn't joke with it. Our parents should also imbibe same because whatever you sow, you shall reap".’ Pa Oyebanji said. 

In his remarks, Senator Bamidele, said the good deeds Pa Oyebanji inculcated in his children reflect in Governor Oyebanji’s remarkable performance as Governor of thr state, a development he said had raised his political rating and would make him spend eight years as a governor.

"As God liveth, Baba will still live longer to reap the fruits of his labour. I appreciate the Governor for standing by me to be Senate Leader. His support was strong and solid. He did this because he had imbibed the culture of Omoluabi and love for Ekiti from his father. 

"I will make sure that I join Governor Oyebanji to improve the wellbeing of Ekiti in terms of road construction and facilitating federal  projects to Ekiti. This is what we owe Ekiti and we shall achieve it".

In his sermon titled: 'Teach us How to count our days', the Pastor in charge of Gateway Baptist Church, Ado Ekiti, Reverend Michael Otun, dismissed the insinuation that birthday celebration is a signal of imminent death as being thought in some quarters, instead, he said birthday celebration is as an opportunity to  think more about heaven. 

Showering encomiums on the celebrant for his discipline, humility, prudency, honesty, the  Cleric urged Nigerians to always  do things right for the nation to experience radical development  in all facets. 

Pastor Otun described Pa Oyebanji as a courageous man, who faced the vicissitudes of life with valour and triumphed in spite of the initial frictions and snags caused by poor background.

"Baba is not a proud person, in fact he is humble to a fault. Whoever that is diligent is his friend. He has a good and rich history. He believes in intellectual building. He began his life from a humble beginning and rose to the Pinnacle of his career. He is today the father of Ekiti State Governor. 

Present at the church service were the the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, House of Representatives members, Hons. Biodun Omoleye and Akinlayo Kolawole, former Chief Judge of Ekiti State, Justice Ayodeji Daramola.

The roll call also included, the Secretary to Ekiti State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro, the Chaplain of Government House, Pastor Segun Awolumate, Vice Chancellor, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Victor Adeoluwa, Local Government Chairmen, traditional rulers, top government functionaries as well as former students of the celebrant.

Alleged Tenure Elongation PAG Tackles NITDA DG Inuwa Salifu.

Alleged Tenure Elongation PAG Tackles  NITDA DG Inuwa Salifu.

....says his continuous stay will affect Tinubu's administration.

An advocacy group under the aegis of Protection Awareness Group (PAG) has called on the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency NITDA Inuwa Kashifu Abdullahi to shelve his alleged move to continue in office after the expiration of his tenure come August 2023. 

The group also called on the Federal government not to elongate his tenure nor reappoint him saying  the manner by which he  got the appointment was allegedly fraudulent, illegal and an aberration.

The National President of the group Dr. Shamsudeen  Abubakar in an interview with journalists in Abuja berated former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy  Isa Patanmi for bringing onboard Inuwa Kashifu whose recruitment was alleged to be shady and devoid of due process.

The group alleged that the DG in his quest to continue to allow the erstwhile Minister to have control of the NITDA is seeking for a third tenure after his current tenure ends August 2023 since his assumption into office in 2019. 

Part of the group's demands includes:

That the NITDA Director General should shelve his tenure elongation having been handpicked by Isa Patanmi when he was serving as his TA on secondment from CBN as a level 10 officer in CBN.

That the former minister Isa Patanmi took advantage of his closeness to former President Muhammad Buhari to fraudulently secure a 2nd term for him while his first term is yet to expire which is a serious indictment on the both of them.

That as the current DG  of the NITDA, Inuwa Kashifu Abdullahi   is being controlled and micro managed by Patanmi and that his continuing stay will further extend Patanmi's grip on the Agency and on the  Government of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as that will enable him to rule by proxy 

That under his watch staff statutory allowances were not paid as and well due, contractors are being owed and revenue generated are being diverted to building of headquarters without commensurate value of the work done. 

That Inuwa allegedly approved severance package for Patanmi running into over hundred and fifty million naira when the latter was appointed.

The Protection awareness group therefore wanted Inuwa Abdullahi to leave peacefully immediately his current tenure expires in August to enable capable hands take over the Agency for the benefit of the nation. 

It further called on Inuwa to save his shame by bowing out when the ovation is loudest and not wait until he is forced or disgraced out of office.

Also speaking with Journalists, the  National secretary of the group Mr. jubrin accused Inuwa Kashifu Abdullahi of frying to lobby some influential people to support his continuous stay in office.

"He should desist from lobbying the presidency and every other persons involved to continue his stay in office" He concluded.

I Need Your Partnership to Tackle Insecurity, Oyebanji Tells Ekiti Obas.

I Need Your Partnership to Tackle Insecurity, Oyebanji Tells Ekiti Obas.

.....Presents Staff of office to Onikoyi.

The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has again restated that  his government is relying heavily on the partnership of the royal fathers to tame the hydra-headed problems of insecurity bedeviling  the state. 

The Governor stated that the monarchs are central and pivotal in peace building process and maintenance of law and orders in their respective domains, urging them to discharge the duties spiritedly to safeguard the lives of the residents .

The Governor said this in Ikoyi Ekiti, Ikole Local Government Area, on Friday, while presenting the staff and instrument of office to Onikoyi, Oba Akinwande Moses Ogundana.

The seat became vacant following the demise of Oba Olalere Falaki, on August 5, 2022, while the process for the selection of a new occupant of the royal seat kick-started on January 3, 2023.

Presenting the instrument, Oyebanji, represented by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, appreciated the monarchs for acting like true stabilisers and peace makers in their towns.

The Governor, however, pointed out that  more concerted, cohesive and stronger united fronts are required to tame the occasional kidnappings and killings being experienced in the state through the activities of some evil doers.

Governor Oyebanji said: "I want to commend our royal fathers for their exceptional support and contributions toward ensuring security , peace and stability in their domains, and for being there always to resolve knotty issues of varying dimensions for the benefit of your communities. 

"As traditional rulers, you sit on a throne of power and enjoy privileges that are peculiar to your office. You are bound to face several challenges and shoulder greater responsibilies, which at times may be very heavy and seem uneasy to bear. 

"Always remember that uneasy lies the head that wears the crown. This should always be your guiding principle".

Oyebanji congratulated Oba Ogundana for ascending the throne of his forebears, urging him to accommodate all divergent interests to fasttrack development in the town.

"With this presentation, you are being officially confirmed as the custodian of culture and tradition  of Ikoyi people. You must strive to accommodate , endure, persevere , tolerate, Godly and dutifully serve your people. 

"You must strive and endure to seek the advice of all and respect the views of the majority in all your decisions".

The monarch, in his acceptance speech,  applauded Governor Oyebanji for being neutral and transparent in the selection process, saying such accounted for why the process leading to his emergence was bereft of rancour and bloodshed.

Oba Ogundana promised to work with all the stakeholders in the community to promote peace, unity and development  of the town in all facets.

"Today, I understand the enormity of the responsibilities you have  placed on my shoulders and I will work hard to ensure that I serve you meritoriously and selflessly.

"I will be fair and do justice to all manners of issues brought before me. But I call on our people to join me in achieving all these, because the task  is cumbersome, but we can thrive if we all join hands together to serve this town. 

"Let us forget about the ugly past and face a brighter future. I shall listen to your counsels in the course of serving you because we are all working towards one mission and with the same vision.

"I appreciate Governor Oyebanji  for his fairness in the selection process. I will work hard to support the government in overcoming all the challenges to Ekiti a better and greater state".

Hon. Adetoyese Pledges Transformation for Ise/Orun LGA: Enhancing Agriculture, Industries, and Security.

Hon. Adetoyese Pledges Transformation for Ise/Orun LGA: Enhancing Agriculture, Industries, and Security.

In a groundbreaking announcement, Hon. Adetoyese, the former Executive Assistant to the Governor Ward 1, aspiring for Ise/Orun Local Government Area chairman position, has unveiled an ambitious plan to propel the community towards prosperity and progress. Promising to prioritize the welfare of the people, Hon. Adetoyese's platform encompasses several key initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth, job creation, and security enhancement.

Under the headline "Revolutionizing Agriculture: Empowering Ise-Ekiti through Irrigation Farming," Hon. Adetoyese emphasized his commitment to harnessing the potential of the Ogbese River, a cherished resource owned by the Ise-Ekiti people. Recognizing the river's significance, he pledged to educate and finance young men in the community, enabling them to adopt modern irrigation techniques. This initiative aims to revolutionize agricultural practices, enhance crop production, and ensure food security for the entire region.

Additionally, Hon. Adetoyese's visionary approach includes the establishment of industries that will contribute to economic growth and showcase the community's rich resources. The creation of a state-of-the-art cassava processing industry will enable the community to process cassava into food products that bear their unique branding, ensuring higher value and increased marketability. Furthermore, a palm fruit processing industry will enhance the quality and preservation of locally produced palm oil, while proudly displaying the community's name, cementing its identity on the global stage.

Recognizing the paramount importance of security, Hon. Adetoyese has pledged to tighten security measures within the Ise/Orun LGA. By collaborating closely with relevant stakeholders, law enforcement agencies, and community members, he aims to create a safe and secure environment for everyone. This comprehensive security plan will safeguard lives, protect property, and promote peace, thereby fostering an atmosphere conducive to progress and development.

Hon. Adetoyese, the present Chairman Ofigba Community Project Management Committee strongly believes in an inclusive and participatory governance model. He emphasizes the importance of actively involving the people of Ise/Orun in decision-making processes and policy formulation. By ensuring that the voices of the community are heard, he aims to bridge the gap between the government and the governed, fostering a sense of ownership and collective responsibility.

Hon. Adetoyese's transformative vision for Ise/Orun LGA, encompassing agriculture, industries, security, and inclusive governance, seeks to propel the community towards a brighter future. With his track record of service, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the welfare of the people, he emerges as a capable leader poised to address the needs and aspirations of the community effectively. Through a transparent and inclusive electoral process, he aims to secure a mandate that will enable him to turn his promises into reality, ensuring progress, prosperity, and pride for the Ise/Orun Local Government Area.

Hillside University of Science and Technology, Okemesi Ekiti, Receives Warm Welcome from Governor Oyebanji.

Hillside University of Science and Technology, Okemesi Ekiti, Receives Warm Welcome from Governor Oyebanji.

By: Olamide Akinwumi

Ado Ekiti, July 13, 2023 - In a remarkable event at the Governor's office in Ado Ekiti, Governor Biodun Oyebanji warmly received the esteemed management team of Hillside University of Science and Technology, led by Mr. Laoye Jaiyeola. This meeting marks an exciting chapter in the educational landscape of Ekiti State, as the establishment of the university promises boundless opportunities for the youth and contributes significantly to the overall development of the state.

The announcement of the university's establishment has ignited a wave of enthusiasm among the populace, who recognize the immense potential it holds for transforming the educational sector and stimulating economic growth. Governor Oyebanji, renowned for his unwavering commitment to fostering quality education and creating a conducive business environment, expressed his delight at the advent of Hillside University.

During the meeting, Governor Oyebanji extended his gratitude to the management team of Hillside University for their visionary approach in choosing Ekiti State as the location for their esteemed institution. The governor emphasized that the university's presence would bolster the state's educational infrastructure, providing a wealth of educational opportunities for the teeming youth population. He also commended the university's dedication to excellence and innovation, acknowledging their potential to become a beacon of academic distinction and research advancement.

Governor Oyebanji further emphasized his administration's commitment to supporting the growth and success of Hillside University. He assured the management team that the state government would collaborate closely with the institution to address any challenges it may encounter and provide an enabling environment for its development. The governor expressed his optimism in witnessing the university's steady growth and prosperity, highlighting the immense benefits it would bring to the state.

Mr. Laoye Jaiyeola, the leader of the management team from Hillside University, expressed his deep appreciation for the warm reception and support received from Governor Oyebanji and the people of Ekiti State. He emphasized the university's commitment to upholding the highest standards of academic excellence, research, and community engagement. Mr. Jaiyeola also outlined the institution's plans for infrastructure development, faculty recruitment, and curriculum design, showcasing their dedication to providing a world-class educational experience.

The establishment of Hillside University of Science and Technology, Okemesi Ekiti, signifies a significant milestone in the educational landscape of Ekiti State. With the governor's unwavering support and the university's visionary leadership, the institution is poised to become a prestigious center for learning, research, and innovation. As the state eagerly awaits the university's official launch, expectations soar high, as it is anticipated to unlock a new era of educational advancement and contribute substantially to the socioeconomic growth of Ekiti State.

Tinubu's Ministerial List Must Not Come Short of Expectations, Omoluabi Team Alliance Advises.

Tinubu's Ministerial List Must Not Come Short of Expectations, Omoluabi  Team Alliance Advises.

As Nigerians expect the Bola Ahmed Tinubu - led Federal Government to unveil his list of cabinet members who shall become members of the  Federal  Executive Committee ( FEC) as part of the constitutional requirement. We are today glad that the incumbent President has started well.with so much zeal, strength and demonstration of capacity and competence since resumption into office May 29th, 2023. 

However the expectations of Nigerians are high as we all look forward to see the manifestation of the   renewed hope agenda which was the slogan of the President during his nationwide campaign.  No doubt, Nigerians have shown so much patience and are ready to show more understandings as long as the President continues to do the right thing. Adopt policies and sign executive orders that are required to re-fix, re-set and re-engineer the country into prosperity. Key among the expectations of Nigerians is to see the machinery of government fully launched which begins with cabinet members.

HIS EXCELLENCY BOLA AHMED TINUBU GCFR; PRESIDENT, COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE ARMED FORCES FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA. 

We are confident that the Asiwaju we know from his antecedents will always surprise the people in his decisions when they least expect. These surprises we hope will come with the intention to do things in a new way so as to achieve a new and better result. The ministerial list should contain a list of highly dignified Nigerians, highly patriotic, integrity personified, technocrats who have been very successful in their career callings and be ready to work assiduously to achieve the set agenda 'Renewed Hope'.

 Those who should make the list must be individuals with fresh ideas capable of oiling the brain box of Mr. President who himself is well versed, experienced,  civilized and a finance expert himself. Politicians who have fully made themselves professional politicians should be avoided because they are only there to fill their pockets with tax payers' money.  

However, the question is can we get people  who can display so much act of patriotism in the task of nation building like the Late Prof. Dora Akiyuli? The woman who fought the drug warlords and dealers of substandard drugs and tablets to stand still..NAFDAC under her watch was rebranded and most efficient in the history of this country.

 Omoluabi Team Alliance however appeal to President Tinubu to build a team of cabinet members who are round pegs in a round hole. The usual norms and routine of enlisting old names with no meaningful impact since they became professional power brokers will not do his administration any good at all. Atleast 70% of the content in the new bottles should be new wines, 10% for both women and youths while the remaining 20% can be allocated to  accommodate the old political brigades and jobbers as a possible compensate for their loyalty to the party or roles played for the eventual  emergence of Mr..President.

We wish President Bola Ahmed Tinubu well in the national assignment he willingly asked Nigerians to offer him. May you never fail Nigerians. Trust a new Nigeria will manifest  under your watch.

May the good spirit of Omoluabi never depart from you, Akanbi Olodo ide 

 E-Signed:

 Omoluabi Jayeola, A.O.

 National Convener

 Omoluabi Team Alliance Socio- cultural and Political Group.