EKiti Assembly moves to recover Legislative Quarters from Police.

EKiti Assembly moves to recover Legislative Quarters from Police.

...Frowns against occupation of lawmakers” seats by unauthorized persons.

....As more commissioner-nominees appear for screening.

The Ekiti State House of Assembly has promised to look into circumstances surrounding the taking over and occupation of the Legislative Quarters by the Police with a view to recovering the property.

The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, pledged the commitment to recover the property at the continuation of screening of the commissioner-nominees held at the Assembly Complex on Tuesday in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday.

Rt. Hon. Aribasoye also frowned at the attitude of some members of the public who are fond of sitting on the vacant seats of legislators in the Assembly promising to henceforth invoke the law to punish the culprits.

The commissioner-nominees who appeared before the legislators included former Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Karonwi Oladapo; former Head of Service, Mrs. Peju Babafemi; former Caretaker Chairman of Ijero Local Government, Mr. Ojo Atibioke and former Chairman of Ado Ekiti Local Government, Mrs. Tosin Aluko.

Mrs. Aluko, who was carrying an injury on her leg and limped into the chambers for her screening was not asked any question as she was requested to take a bow and go on compassionate grounds.

The gesture of the legislature not to subject Mrs. Aluko to questioning on health grounds which was championed by the Speaker received a deafening ovation from her supporters most of whom filled the gallery to observe the proceedings.

Rt. Hon. Oladapo, a member of the First Assembly (1999-2003) in which he was privileged to serve as the Deputy Speaker, who went down the memory lane on the defining moments of each legislative sessions and their presiding officers, pleaded with the members of the Seventh Assembly (2023-2027) to ensure the stability of the current session.

While noting that the Parliament is enriched and made stronger by its members getting re-elected as many times as possible, Karonwi said he was looking at the possiblity of having third term members and fourth term members in the Ekiti Assembly.

The nominee frowned at the takeover of the Legislative Quarters along NTA Road Ado Ekiti by the Police noting that the foundation stone of the project was laid during the tenure of the first elected Governor of Ekiti State, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo and was designated to be the official residence of serving legislators.

Rt. Hon. Oladapo urged the Speaker and members of the Seventh Assembly to collaborate with Governor Biodun Oyebanji to ensure that the Legislative Quarters is recovered from the Police and used for the purpose it was intended for.

The former Deputy Speaker in his remarks also urged the Assembly to take a second look at the case of some staff members of the Assembly believed to have been unjustly disengaged urging the concerned authorities to reinstate them.

Rt. Hon. Oladapo had earlier raised the issue of alleged desecration of the hallowed chambers including illegal sitting on the legislators’ seats by unauthorized persons calling for more respect for the legislature from individuals visiting the Assembly

Responding to the two issues raised by the nominee, the Speaker vowed that no member of the public would be allowed to desecrate the House urging individuals visiting the Assembly to always ensure decorum anytime they come to the Complex.

He said: “No member of the public will be allowed to desecrate the House of Assembly. I hereby give directive to the Sergeant-at-Arm that on no occasion should anybody who is not a member of the Seventh Assembly sit on any of the seats meant for the honourable members.

“Mr. Clerk and the Sergeant-at-Arm, I hope you can hear me. Mr. Clerk will brief me on the issue of Legislative Quarters and we are going to act appropriately after being fully briefed on the development.”

After addressing the Assembly, the Speaker asked Rt. Hon. Oladapo to take his bow and leave the hallowed chamber after which former Head of Service, Mrs. Babafemi was admitted.

The nominee spoke on her experience in the civil service which she joined in the old Ondo State in 1987 and rose to the pinnacle of service as Head of Service in Ekiti State in 2019 before bowing out in 2022.

Mrs. Babafemi who had worked in many ministries before becoming a Permanent Secretary in 2009 promised to bring her experience to bear in the bureaucracy to serve the state diligently to the best of her ability.

Having been satisfied with Mrs. Babafemi’s submissions, the Speaker urged his colleagues not to bother the nominee with questions having served the for 35 years in the civil service

The Speaker said the Assembly had looked at the nominee’s record of service which he described as unblemished urging her to always remind her colleagues in the executive if she is confirmed on the need to always honour summons on the need to give account of stewardship.

Mrs. Babafemi subsequently took her bow and was ushered out of the legislative chambers.

Next to be screened was Mr. Atibioke who described himself as farmer and agriculturist. He promised to work in line with the six-pillar agenda of the Oyebanji Administration and give his best in any ministry he is posted to if he is confirmed by the Assembly.

Dwelling on his experience as Board Member of the Ekiti State Housing Corporation, Mr. Atiobioke described as unacceptable a situation in which occupants of one of the government-owned housing estates in Ado Ekiti are owing the state government to the tune of over N350 million.

Before taking his bow, he urged the people of the state to develop better attitude and mindset to government property saying more political will is needed to ensure sanity in that sector.

Rt. Hon. Aribasoye reminded the nominee that the screening did not amount to automatic confirmation stressing that a special sitting would be held at a later date after the conclusion of the screening exercise to confirm successful nominees ahead of their swearing-in.

Apparently moved by the sight of the last nominee for the day and former Ado Ekiti Council Chairperson, Mrs. Aluko limping into the Assembly chambers, the Speaker said: “Because of her health challenge, can this woman take a bow and go?”

The Speaker’s remark was greeted with a loud response in the affirmative and a big ovation by her supporters and sympathizers in the gallery.

The nominee who was overwhelmed with emotion and show of support for her condition bowed and took her leave from the chambers into the waiting arms of her supporters who had been waiting for her outside and continued their celebration on her successful screening.

At the conclusion of the commissioner nominees screening for the day, the legislator representing Ikere Constituency 1, Hon. Babatunde Oke, moved a motion calling for stoppage of indiscriminate dumping of refuse in the canals, drainages and roadsides in Ekiti State.

The motion was seconded by the Majority Leader and the legislator representing Ekiti Southwest Constituency 2, Hon. Tolu Ige.

Members who lent their voices to the motion included Hon. Iyabo Fakunle-Okieimen (Ilejemeje), Hon. Abimbola Solanke (Moba 1), Hon. Femi Akindele (Irepodun/Ifelodun 1) and Hon. Tony Adaramodu (Ekiti Southwest 1).

The House passed resolutions frowning against indiscriminate dumping of waste in canals, drainages and roadsides urging members of the public to desist from the practice. They also urged the citizens to be vigilant and ensure that the culprits are reported and made to face appropriate punishment under the law.

The House also urged the state government to employ more environmental officers to monitor the environment in the state and that the State Waste Management Authority should be strengthened to ensure that the environment is safe.

The legislators further resolved that the local governments should collaborate with traditional rulers and religious leaders to sensitize the citizens on the dangers of indiscriminate dumping waste.

Another resolution passed was that the state government should ensure the continuous de-silting and clearing of drainages, work towards recycling waste and commercializing waste collection.

The House adjourned its plenary to Wednesday, 19th July, 2023.

Omoluabi Socio- Cultural and Political Group Felicitate with Oba Aniyikaye Sunday, the Obaleo of Erinmope Ekiti, on the occasion of his birthday.

Omoluabi Socio- Cultural and Political Group Felicitate with Oba Aniyikaye Sunday, the Obaleo of Erinmope Ekiti, on the occasion of his birthday.

An emerging socio- cultural and political group with presence across the entire southwest join the people of Erinmope Ekiti, High chiefs and other members of the Erinmope- in -Council, friends and members of the royal family in celebrating HIs Royal Majesty, Oba Dr.Aniyikaye Aikuirawo on the occasion of his birthday today.

Our prayer is that his new age will mark the beginning of good tidings, joy and prosperity to the royal father and his immediate family, while we also wish the good people of Erinmope Ekiti absolute peace and progress during the reign of Oba Aniyikaye Aikuirawo.

Kabiyesii oooo, igba odun kan, irukere oba a di abere ooo..

 E- Signed: 

 Omoluabi Jayeola A. O.

 National Convener

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.