Ekiti, Oyo, and Osun Speakers Unite for Stronger Legislatures in Southwest, Seek Deeper Working Relationship.

Ekiti, Oyo, and Osun Speakers Unite for Stronger Legislatures in Southwest, Seek Deeper Working Relationship. 

In a groundbreaking move to enhance legislative effectiveness in Southwest Nigeria, the Speakers of Ekiti, Oyo, and Osun States have forged a strong working relationship. The resolve to collaborate for the betterment of their respective legislatures and the people they represent was made evident during a recent working visit to the Ekiti State House of Assembly by the legislators from Oyo and Osun.

The visit, part of a collaborative agenda, involved a whistle-stop tour of legislatures in the Southwest. The next stop on this partnership agenda is the Ondo State House of Assembly.

During their visit to Ekiti, the legislators from Oyo and Osun attended a plenary session held in their honor in the hallowed chambers of the Ekiti Assembly. Hon. Johnson Oyekola Bode-Adeoye, the representative of Ekiti West Constituency 2, moved a motion to allow the two visiting Speakers to address the Ekiti Assembly, and Hon. Idowu Odebunmi of Oye Constituency 2 seconded the motion, marking the occasion as "official and historic."

Emphasizing the significance of the parliament as the essence of democracy, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, the Ekiti Speaker, stressed the need for sustained deep, fruitful, and rewarding working relationships among all the Southwest state legislatures. He mentioned that the meeting was a follow-up to a recent gathering in Abuja, where they developed an "one for all, all for one agenda."

Rt. Hon. Aribasoye acknowledged that the legislature faces complex and demanding challenges, and emphasized the importance of safeguarding the institution of parliament by navigating these challenges effectively.

One of the key topics discussed during the meeting was the idea of a digitalized parliament, with the legislators looking to learn from Delta State's experiences in this regard. The Speakers proposed the possibility of a special plenary that would include all six State Assemblies in the Southwest, suggesting that Oyo could host it, and Ekiti would be willing to do so as well.

In his remarks, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, the Oyo Speaker, described the visit as a handshake between Oyo, Osun, and Ekiti States aimed at fostering interstate collaboration for accelerated development. He emphasized the need to empower the legislature, as the current system tends to empower the executive more than other arms of government. Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin commended the Ekiti Assembly's productivity and stressed the importance of passing quality bills that have a meaningful impact on constituents' lives.

Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, the Osun Speaker, expressed gratitude for the warm reception and called for strengthening the bond between the parliaments of neighboring states. He highlighted the importance of fostering legislative excellence and sharing working experiences through such visits.

The visit concluded with the exchange of gifts among the three Speakers, symbolizing the unity and cooperation achieved during the meeting.

As the three Southwest states' legislatures unite to enhance their roles and responsibilities, this collaborative effort holds promising prospects for strengthening democracy and delivering impactful governance to the people they serve.

Senate President Akpabio Applauds Gov. Oyebanji's Exemplary Leadership during National Assembly Visit.

Senate President Akpabio Applauds Gov. Oyebanji's Exemplary Leadership during National Assembly Visit.

In a remarkable display of statesmanship, humility, and exemplary leadership, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, heaped praise on Governor Oyebanji of Ekiti State during a working visit by National Assembly members from Ekiti to the Senate. The event took place at the National Assembly complex and left spectators, including the Ekiti Kete, deeply impressed and proud of their Governor's accomplishments.

Governor Oyebanji's delegation, consisting of prominent members of the National Assembly from Ekiti State, arrived at the Senate on Tuesday. The purpose of their visit was to discuss vital issues relating to the development and progress of Ekiti State, as well as exploring avenues for stronger collaboration between the state government and the National Assembly.

Throughout the visit, Governor Oyebanji demonstrated an exceptional level of humility and a unifying leadership style that earned him high praise from the Senate President. As the meeting progressed, Governor Oyebanji attentively listened to the concerns and suggestions put forth by the National Assembly members, showing respect for their perspectives and contributions.

Senate President Akpabio, known for his keen ability to recognize leadership qualities, commended Governor Oyebanji's approach in handling matters with humility and inclusiveness. In his remarks, Senator Akpabio stated, "You have shown the highest level of humility I have ever seen in leadership." He emphasized that such leadership traits are crucial in fostering unity, cooperation, and progress in any society.

During the meeting, various issues pertaining to Ekiti State's development were discussed, ranging from infrastructure development, education, healthcare, agriculture, and youth empowerment. Governor Oyebanji eloquently presented his administration's plans and strategies to address these critical issues, garnering the admiration and support of the National Assembly members.

The working visit not only showcased Governor Oyebanji's leadership prowess but also emphasized his dedication to the welfare of the people of Ekiti State. His commitment to transparency, accountability, and open dialogue resonated with the Senate President and other members of the National Assembly.

Ekiti Kete, who watched the video of the visit, expressed their pride in witnessing their Governor receive such commendations on the national stage. The social media platforms were abuzz with positive reactions, with many users using the hashtags #BAO (an acronym for "Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji") and #TheUnifier to celebrate his unifying leadership style.

As the video of the visit circulated online, it served as an inspiration to leaders and citizens alike, encouraging more public servants to prioritize humility, transparency, and collaborative efforts in steering their communities towards progress and prosperity.

In conclusion, Governor Oyebanji's visit to the National Assembly turned out to be a resounding success, not only in terms of advancing Ekiti State's interests but also in earning accolades for his extraordinary leadership qualities. The commendation from the Senate President serves as a testament to the Governor's dedication to serving the people and fostering a harmonious society, making the people of Ekiti proud to be represented by such an exemplary leader.

Empowering Vulnerable Communities: Ekiti First Lady Urges Local Government Chairmen's Wives to Replicate Social Safety Net Programs.

Empowering Vulnerable Communities: Ekiti First Lady Urges Local Government Chairmen's Wives to Replicate Social Safety Net Programs.

In a bid to extend the reach of social safety net programs and foster positive change at the grassroots level, the wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, has called on the wives of local government chairmen in the state to emulate successful initiatives aimed at uplifting vulnerable communities.

Addressing the wives of local government chairmen during a meeting today in Ado Ekiti, Dr Oyebanji highlighted the importance of replicating impactful programs like the "Renewed Hope Initiative" championed by Senator Remi Tinubu, the President's wife, as well as her own "Widows and Orphans Hope Project." These initiatives have proven successful in providing much-needed support to vulnerable groups such as widows, orphans, and individuals with physical challenges.

The First Lady emphasized that these projects encompass a wide range of benefits, including economic empowerment, agricultural development, healthcare, education, and social investment. By replicating such initiatives at the local government level, the aim is to bring hope and relief to those most in need within the society.

During the meeting, Dr Oyebanji urged the wives of council bosses to utilize their positions to make a positive impact on the lives of the masses. She stressed the importance of ensuring that all pet projects are operational in the localities and urged them to stay actively engaged in the implementation process.

In her address, Mrs Kemi Dairo, the Vulnerable Project Coordinator in the State, sought the support of local government leadership in accurately identifying and assisting the vulnerable individuals who would benefit from these programs.

Mrs Shelly Attaniel, the Gender officer in the office of the Governor's wife, also contributed to the discussion, suggesting the need for wives of council chairmen to monitor rural areas for instances of violence against women, ensuring that the vulnerable do not suffer from injustice.

Mrs Ebunlomo Adetunji, the Coordinator of Ekiti Council chairmen's Wives, expressed appreciation for the proactive measures being taken to bring relief to orphans and widows in the state. She pledged to take these efforts to the grassroots level, showcasing the commitment of local communities to uplifting those in need.

With the wives of local government chairmen poised to replicate these impactful programs, Ekiti State is set to witness even greater strides in providing essential support and care for its vulnerable citizens. The collective effort to replicate social safety net programs promises to create a stronger and more inclusive community, ensuring that no one is left behind.

COMMISSIONER-NOMINEES' SCREENING MARKED BY TRANSPARENCY, SAYS EKITI SPEAKER.

COMMISSIONER-NOMINEES' SCREENING MARKED BY TRANSPARENCY, SAYS EKITI SPEAKER.

.....Assembly Concludes Exercise, Screened Nominees Await Confirmation.

The Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye , has said the screening of commissioner-nominees by members of the Assembly has been marked by transparency, fairness and commitment to excellence.

He spoke on Wednesday as the legislators concluded the screening of candidates nominated for the positions of commissioner by Governor Biodun with the appearance of the last three nominees at the plenary held inside the hallowed chambers of the Assembly Complex.

With the conclusion of the screening of a total number of twenty one (21) nominees in the last two weeks, the stage is now set for the confirmation of those found worthy, fit and suitable ahead of their swearing-in by the Governor.

The nominees who appeared for screening at Wednesday's plenary included a former Deputy Speaker of the Assembly, Rth Olatunbosun Taiwo Franklin ; former Commissioner for Works and Transportation, Mr. Adesola #Adebayo and former Caretaker Chairman of Gbonyin Local Government, Mr. #Femi Awe.

Expressing satisfaction with the conduct of the exercise, the Speaker hailed his colleagues for their painstaking commitment to ensure a smooth process and also commended the nominees for giving a good account of themselves judging by their responses to questions asked by the legislators.

He said: "I am proud to say that this screening exercise has been marked by transparency, fairness, and a commitment to excellence. Our esteemed members of the House have displayed unwavering professionalism, asking probing questions and seeking clarity on matters of utmost importance.

"The nominees, in turn, have showcased their competence and dedication, leaving no doubt about their readiness to contribute to the development and progress of Ekiti State.

"I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts in ensuring the success of this exercise. Your dedication to upholding the principles of good governance and accountability has set a commendable standard for all to follow.

"To the Commissioner nominees, I commend you for your resilience throughout this process. Your willingness to subject yourselves to the scrutiny of this House is a testament to your commitment to public service. Your collective expertise and passion will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our great state.

"As we draw this screening exercise to a close, let us remember that our ultimate goal is to serve the people of Ekiti State diligently. We must remain steadfast in our commitment to transparency, accountability, and delivering on the promises made to our constituents. Together, we can create a brighter and more prosperous future for all Ekiti residents.

"Once again, I extend my deepest gratitude to all participants in this exercise and wish the Commissioner nominees success as they embark on their respective portfolios. Let us continue to work together in unity, progress, and harmony for the betterment of Ekiti State."

The Speaker reiterated the fact that the Ekiti Parliament is composed of the elected representatives of 3.5 million people of the state adding they were sent to the House by their constituents to ensure that every kobo appropriated adds value to their lives and well accounted for.

He further harped on the need by the nominees to always honour summons to appear before the Assembly whenever clarifications are needed on how funds are expended and how projects are executed.

Rt. Hon. Aribasoye charged them to always carry the Assembly and its relevant committees along in the execution of projects restating the readiness of the legislators to ensure that the people of the state get the true value for their money.

The Speaker explained that the exercise was a proof that Ekiti is blessed with men and women who have passion for the development and are ready to serve to ensure quality service delivery to the people in the grassroots.

Rt. Hon. Olatunbosun, a former legislator, in his remarks advocated the restoration of constituency allowance for the House of Assembly members to enable them have legacy projects against their names and in their memory.

He suggested that the state legislature could liaise with the executive arm for such projects to be channeled through the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) maintaining that the take-home pay of the legislators are insufficient for them to execute projects for their people.

The nominee said he had been privileged to serve the government of the state as Deputy Speaker during which he served as an acting Governor, Senior Special Assistant on Rural Development, Technical Assistant to the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Millennium Development Goals and Chairman of the House of Assembly Service Commission which he said he did creditably.

He also noted that he served as the Publicity Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during which the party bounced back to power to provide quality leadership to the people of the state saying he remained proud to be the voice of the party during the time he served.

Mr. Adebayo also explained that he had distinguished himself as a businessman and also sat on the boards of corporate organizations before venturing into politics.

He explained that his tenure as Commissioner for Works and Transportation was marked with unprecedented infrastructure development and execution of legacy projects which he supervised to completion.

The last nominee, Mr. Awe, was given the privilege to take a bow and go to the admiration of his followers and supporters in the gallery.

The House adjourned its plenary to Thursday, 20th July, 2023.

Oyebanji Determined to Make Sports Attractive to Youths, Ekiti Deputy Governor Assures.

Oyebanji Determined to Make Sports Attractive to Youths, Ekiti Deputy Governor Assures.

The Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has assured youths interested in sports in the state that Governor Biodun Oyebanji is resolute to strengthen the sport sector to develop the potentials of the productive population.

Mrs Afuye described sport as not only a money-spinning venture, but a profession that can give honour and dignity to interested individual, which she said makes it deserved of being accorded a priority on the list of well-funded government's programmes  .

She assured  that Governor Oyebanji won't spare any effort to make all the categories of sports highly attractive to youths through proper funding  to boost their careers.

The Ekiti's number two citizen, gave the assurance, on Wednesday, while being presented with the Certificate of Participation in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Region 25 Sport Festival, held on the 1st of July, 2023, at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado Ekiti.  

Addressing the leadership of the RCCG and organisers of the sport fiesta, Mrs Afuye, in a statement by her Media Aide, Victor Ogunje, applauded the church for keying into the Governor Oyebanji's vision and perspective that sports remained a veritable instrument to combat unemployment, poverty and crime.

She said: "Let me appreciate the church for organising a soccer festival to promote sports, especially the  catch them young policy of government.

"If you go round our primary and secondary schools across Ekiti, you will see that gradual and steady development is being made in sports.

"Governor Oyebanji showed interest in this because all the nations that are doing well in one sport took interest in the establishment of sports  academies to promote sports at the grassroots.  

"Go and look at the policy thrust of this administration, Sport and Youth Development is a whole Pillar. In the olden days our parents didn't normally allow us to participate in sporting activities, but the trend has changed.

"Sports can make one a billionaire and breadwinner of his  family, so our government is ready to support any initiative that is geared towards developing the sector".

Mrs Afuye advised the men of God  to pray relentlessly for the current government, saying their spiritual support had helped in keeping Governor Oyebanji in high spirit to deliver on his promises to the people. 

Presenting the certificate to the Deputy Governor, the RCCG Director of Sports, Region 25, Pastor Sesan Adewumi, prayed for the success of the Oyebanji's administration.

Adewumi  assuring that the church will continue to initiate programmes that will complement government's actions and help in building the youth capacities.

The Cleric added that Mrs Afuye's participation in the sporting activity organised by the Church substantiated how admirably passionate Governor Oyebanji was to sport promotion and  development .

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