THE FASCINATING STORY OF BÀBÁ ALÁTIṢE.

THE FASCINATING STORY OF BÀBÁ ALÁTIṢE.
The story that birth this Yorùbá adage, "Alátiṣe ló ń mọ àtiṣe ara rẹ̀”.

Once upon a time,there was once a wealthy man named Alátiṣe who had three wives and children.

A few years after he married his third wife,he became blind And Impotent.
Everyday, his family would lead him to the front of his house, where he would sit and lounge all day, getting up only to relieve himself.

One fateful day,a dove flew straight at him and begged him to go under his dress in order to hide from a massive hawk that Wanted to devour it.

Alátiṣe asked the dove, "what are you going to do for me if I do you this favour?".
The dove replied that it would heal a part of his body that had become nonfunctional.
The man promptly hid the dove under his dress.

In order to hide from a massive hawk that wanted To devour it.
Alatise asked the dove, "what are you going to do for me if I do you this favour?".
The dove replied that it would heal a part of his body that had become nonfunctional. The man promptly hid the dove under his dress.

Shortly thereafter, the hawk came down To beg him that he should release the dove to it in order for it (the hawk) not to die of hunger.

Alátiṣe asked the hawk," what are you going to do for me if l do you this favour?"
The dove replied that it would heal a part Of his body that had become nonfunctional. The man promptly hid the dove under his dress...

Shortly thereafter,the hawk came down To beg him that he should release the dove to it in order for it (the hawk) not to die of hunger.

Alátiṣe asked the hawk," what are you going to do for me if l do you this favour?"
The hawk also replied that it would heal a part of his body that had become non functional.

Alátiṣe told the hawk to give him a few moments and return after a few hours.
Both replies caused Alátiṣe a lot of worry on what to do so he called his three wives to seek for their advices.

The first and second wives, having consumated sexual relationships with concubines dismissed the proposition outright and advices him to come to terms with his condition.

The third wife however told him to find out the proposition that would heal his importence and go with that so she could have children.

So, Alátiṣe decided to think deeply.
He went into The inner recesses of his mind and came up with the idea that he would gain from both sides.

He called his son to get some money from hiis safe, go to the market and buy him a pigeon that was as close to white as possible.

The son did as he was instructed and brought the Pigeon to his father.
The son did as he was instructed and brought the pigeon to it and the hawk flew away to devour its lunch. Sometimes later, the hawk came back and declared its intention to redeem its promise.

The hawk slapped its wings on Alátiṣe’s face and he regained His sight.
He thanked the hawk for its kindness and flew away.

Once the hawk was out of sight, Alátiṣe called out the dove to come out and redeem its promise.

The dove commenced some shifting around under Alátiṣe’s dress and he had uplifting down under. That was the beginning of the saying,

“Alátiṣe ló ń mọ àtiṣe ara rẹ̀”, meaning it is only Alátiṣe that can determine what is good for himself.

Simply means,only you can determine your priorities.
Alátiṣe was overjoyed as regained his sight and conjugal functions from the wisdom with which he handled the entire situation.

Researcher: Comr. Olamide Akinwumi James, 09068215955.

Story credit; Bàbá Olówe  (man of proverbs) in Ayegbaju-Ekiti .
Photo credit; Wikipedia

There is a popular Yorùbá proverb which says: A kìí je míjì l'ábà Àlàdé. We do not eat two things at Àlàdé's compound.

There is a popular Yorùbá proverb which says: A kìí je míjì l'ábà Àlàdé.

We do not eat two things at Àlàdé's compound.

Let me tell you the full story behind this proverb so you will know when to use such proverb. 

The story is from sacred Odù Ifá Ogbè Ofun and the verse goes thus: 

A s'ore ìsetán níí jé méè l'óríyìn

Adífá fún Àlàdé oníwàtá

Tí ń lo rèé dá'ko èbá ònàn

Ebo wón ní ó se

Half good deeds doesn't makes one to be appreciated

These were Ifa declarations to Àlàdé oníwàtá.

When going to farm at the road side

He was advised to offer ẹbọ

Àlàdé decided that he wants to be doing good to people so that everyone can always praise him for his good deeds now and after he's no more. 

He decided to plant Yam at the road side and he made this yam free for those who are starving. He also provided a very big bowl of water beside it. 

If you passed by his farm hungry or thirsty, you've got no worries. 

But he had a rule and a popular saying which was: 

A kìí je míjì l'ábà Àlàdé

We do not eat two things at Àlàdé's compound. You can only eat one thing at A time. 

Either you eat roasted yam and forget about water or you drink water and leave roasted yam for others. 

The people in his community are already used to this law of his, so he became so popular and well-known for his "half good deed"

One day, two strangers traveling From a far distance, tired, sweating profusely, staggering, starving and thirsty got to his farm. 

They were so happy to see ready roasted yam on fire and drinkable water beside it. 

As they sat down to eat, Àlàdé interrupted and said: "Welcome to my farm, I hope you are aware that you can only choose one thing here. 

You either drink water and take your leave or you eat Yam till you are satisfied, then leave"

This two strangers thought to themselves that it's better for them to eat Yam and go source for water elsewhere. 

They started eating and eating as if they've got a calabash in their stomach but who will blame them? They were starving!

Don't forget that Roasted yam requires drinking water as you are eating it. 

They ate to a stage that the roasted yam got stuck in their throats. 

They begged Àlàdé for water but he refused and claimed that "A deal is a deal". 

To cut the long story short, the two strangers drop dead. 

People started clamouring that Àlàdé killed them.

The people in the community ushered Àlàdé with lot of Beating and Slapping to the king's palace. 

When he got to the palace, he explained all that happened to the king. 

The king then told him that "if you know you can't do a complete and rewarding good to people, why bother to do any at all?" 

Why give an orange to someone who doesn't have Two hands and not peel it? 

So the king pronounced his judgement and a proper purnishment was given to Àlàdé as deserved.

It now became popular in the community that: “A kìí je míjì l'ábà Àlàdé ló kóbá Àlàdé

We do not eat two things at Àlàdé's compound is what got Àlàdé into trouble. 

I hope you learn one or two things from this. 

Story credit; Popoola Owomide Ifagbenusola

Photo source; Wikipedia

Federal Lawmaker, Tunji-Ojo, Empowers 1000 Market Women in Ondo with N50 Million to Alleviate Poverty and Strengthen Local Economy.

Federal Lawmaker, Tunji-Ojo, Empowers 1000 Market Women in Ondo with N50 Million to Alleviate Poverty and Strengthen Local Economy.

Hon Bunmi Tunji-Ojo representing Akoko North East & North West Federal Constituency.

In a bid to uplift the less privileged and bolster the economic prospects of his constituency, the Federal Lawmaker representing Akoko North East/Akoko North West Federal Constituency, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has taken a commendable step by expending a total sum of N50 million to empower 1000 market women in Ondo State.

The gesture, which reflects Tunji-Ojo's commitment to fulfilling his promises to his constituents, was executed during a well-organized program aimed at launching the empowerment initiative. Represented by his capable Special Adviser on Women Affairs, Akadri Atinuke, the lawmaker highlighted the crucial role market women play in driving the economic growth of the constituency.

Section of market women in Akoko North Federal Constituency. 

Acknowledging that Akoko North East and Akoko North West Local Governments serve as the economic hub of Akoko, Tunji-Ojo emphasized the need to invest in the prosperity of the region. He stated, "We promised to invest in the prosperity of Akoko and this is what we are doing today. We will not stop here," signifying his unwavering dedication to the welfare of his constituents.

The empowerment initiative seeks to alleviate poverty and hardship among the less privileged members of society. By providing financial assistance and support to 1000 market women, the program aims to enable these entrepreneurs to enhance their businesses and contribute to the economic growth of the entire Federal Constituency.

In response to the benevolent act, one of the beneficiaries, Alhaja Muhammed Risikat, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Tunji-Ojo, praising him for fulfilling his promises and displaying genuine concern for the wellbeing of his constituents. She stated, "This initiative will help boost our trades and expand the economic capacity of our Federal Constituency. We appreciate BTO for fulfilling his promises always. He will continue to prosper."

The empowerment initiative is the latest in a series of commendable actions taken by Tunji-Ojo to uplift the people of his constituency. Just weeks prior, the Federal Lawmaker had disbursed N50 million as bursary awards to students in the Federal Constituency, supporting their education and encouraging a brighter future for the youth.

Tunji-Ojo's dedicated efforts in driving infrastructure development and creating employment opportunities have earned him praise from constituents, who have recognized the positive impact of his initiatives on their lives and the community at large.

As the empowerment program unfolds and the market women receive financial aid to bolster their businesses, the people of Akoko eagerly anticipate more transformative actions from their visionary representative. With Tunji-Ojo's commitment to the prosperity of the constituency, the future holds great promise for the economic growth and social well-being of Ondo State.

Governor Biodun Ayobami Oyebanji Engages Former Governors Atiku Bagudu and Badaru Abubakar in Productive Discussions for Ekiti's Development.

Governor Biodun Ayobami Oyebanji Engages Former Governors Atiku Bagudu and Badaru Abubakar in Productive Discussions for Ekiti's Development.

In a bid to foster collaboration and explore avenues for progress, Governor Biodun Ayobami Oyebanji of Ekiti State embarked on a momentous courtesy visit to former Governor of Kebbi State and former Chairman of the Progressive Governors' Forum, H.E. Atiku Bagudu, as well as the esteemed former Governor of Jigawa State, H.E. Badaru Abubakar, at their residences in Abuja today.

The highly anticipated meeting saw Governor Oyebanji extend his warm greetings and extend his appreciation for the opportunity to engage in fruitful discussions on matters of mutual interest. The three esteemed political figures convened to share experiences and best practices in governance, with a collective aim to accelerate progress and development both within Ekiti State and the broader scope of Nigeria.

During the course of the convivial discussions, Governor Oyebanji eloquently expressed his vision for Ekiti State's advancement and emphasized the importance of learning from the accomplishments and challenges faced by former Governors Bagudu and Abubakar during their tenures. The exchange of ideas and insights was envisioned to facilitate the implementation of effective policies and initiatives that cater to the needs of the people of Ekiti and contribute to the overall growth of the nation.

Governor Bagudu and Governor Abubakar warmly welcomed Governor Oyebanji's eagerness to collaborate, expressing their delight in the opportunity to share their invaluable experiences and knowledge garnered throughout their respective terms in office. The former governors emphasized the significance of inter-state cooperation in realizing Nigeria's vast potential and fostering unity among the states.

As the discussions progressed, the trio explored a plethora of opportunities for meaningful partnerships, investments, and developmental projects that could yield substantial benefits for Ekiti State and the country as a whole. Topics ranged from agriculture and infrastructure to education and healthcare, with a shared commitment to identifying areas of synergy and resource optimization.

Governor Oyebanji praised the efforts made by both former governors in their states and lauded their dedication to public service, acknowledging the positive impact they had on their respective constituents. The meeting provided an ideal platform for strengthening ties among Nigerian leaders and promoting a collaborative spirit to overcome challenges and secure a brighter future for the nation.

As the meeting concluded, Governor Oyebanji extended his heartfelt gratitude to Governor Bagudu and Governor Abubakar for their hospitality and wisdom. He pledged to apply the knowledge gained from their interactions to enhance governance in Ekiti State and contribute to Nigeria's continuous progress.

The courtesy visit exemplified a significant step towards fostering unity and cooperation among Nigerian states, as leaders from different regions joined hands in the pursuit of a common goal - the prosperity and well-being of all Nigerians. With the shared vision of these statesmen, the potential for positive outcomes not only for Ekiti State but for the entire nation has been ignited, inspiring hope for a brighter future.

Oyebanji's Govt Promoting Women's Political Emancipation- Deputy Governor.

Oyebanji's Govt Promoting  Women's Political Emancipation- Deputy Governor.

.....Says APC will back competent candidates for LG polls.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has declared that her principal, has described Governor Biodun Oyebanji as being unwaveringly  resolute in his desire to empower and pursue political emancipation for women in the state to bolster their relevance in governance.

Mrs Afuye said women empowerment is a conspicuous  component in the Human Capital Development focus of the current government, saying that accounted for why there are six female lawmakers  in the House of Assembly, with several holding other pivotal positions  under Oyebanji's government.

The Deputy Governor said this on Wednesday, while playing host to a political group under the nomenclature Monisade Christianah Afuye (MCA) Ladies, who paid a courtesy visit to her office in Ado Ekiti.

Mrs Afuye, in a statement by her Personal  Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, described the body as politically vibrant and played central roles in the success  recorded by Governor Oyebanji, by way of propagating the policies of government among the masses. 

She urged the group to continually propagate the policies of government, particularly the human capital development focus that places high premium on broadening political opportunities for women in strong and central  positions. 

Speaking about what Oyebanji's government has done to help the group, Mrs Afuye, said about six members had secured employment into the state civil service, while efforts are underway to empower others without higher certificates, but have vocational and business skills. 

"Let me say that I am not for Ikere alone, but for all Ekiti people. Governor Oyebanji won't make anyone a used and dumped entity, we will lay a good example by fulfilling our promises to Ekiti citizens. 

"You could all see that Mr Governor is inclusive, we have no enemy to fight. We are going to consider those who are not in our group for political positions. It is not going to be winner takes all, we will all benefit as Ekiti citizens under Oyebanji's government.

On the coming local government election, Mrs Afuye, said Governor Oyebanji will place high premium on competence and value addition in the choices of candidates the All Progressives Congress will field for the 2023  election.

Mrs Afuye said the era of imposition was long gone in APC, assuring that only those who demonstrated ability and acceptability among the masses and who can add value to the lives of the populace will be supported by Governor Oyebanji. 

"You all know that the local government election will be holding in Ekiti State before the end of the year. Let me inform you that competence and acceptability are  going to be considered in the choices of those that will be supported by Governor Oyebanji.

"This government will allow the masses and party leaders to make inputs. We want those who can add values to the lives of the citizens at the grassroots to emerge."

Also speaking at the forum, a former APC Acting Chairman, Mrs Kemi Olaleye, described Mrs Afuye as a loyal deputy, who is adding value to the present government through initiation of empowerment programmes for the poor .

"Some deputies governors  are disloyal, but Mrs Afuye is different. She has respect for her principal and also adding immesurable values to this government. I want you to support her and Governor Oyebanji to be able to achieve success". 

The leader of the group, Princess Taiwo Adegboye-Omotayo, described the Deputy Governor as an good ambassador of Ikere people, and someone who is committed to human capital development.

Mrs Omotayo applauded the Mrs Afuye for empowering members of the group, by facilitating their employment into the state civil service and provided equipment for those who are artisans among them.

"We are here for a thank you visit. We knew that this government is doing excellently well in the area of women empowerment. We want to say that we are solidly behind you because you have done well.

"The MCA ladies will continue to support this government by publicising the policies of government, and those things our governor is doing to put smiles on the faces of our people".

Oyebanji at MOB’s birthday lecture, hails President Tinubu on human capital development.

Oyebanji at MOB’s birthday lecture, hails President Tinubu on human capital development.

EKiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has said Ekiti people will remain ever grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for building a host of leaders from within the state and around the country.

Governor Oyebanji stated this in his remarks at the lecture and Book Presentation marking the 60th birthday of the Senate Majority Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja on Tuesday. 

Governor Oyebanji, who explained that President Tinubu, had over the years, invested heavily in human capital development, raising many political and economic leaders in the country, described Senator Bamidele as one of the leading lights and pratical example of the president's investment in his mentees. 

He said Senator Bamidele had utilized every opportunity to justify the confidence reposed in him, adding that the superlative performance of the Senate Leader in all the public offices he has held remains a source of pride to his mentor, the President, and the people of Ekiti State. 

Oyebanji said: “We are here today to celebrate Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, But the real celebrator is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who saw In MOB what MOB did not see in himself. 

“I remember a time during the campaign for the general elections when the President visited the Palace of the Ewi Of Ado-Ekiti. At that time an indigene of Ado-Ekiti was bidding to come to the Senate from the PDP. Some of the people were saying that they would vote Asiwaju and vote PDP for the Senate since the PDP candidate was from their town. 

“Asiwaju came and addreesed the people, narrating how he sent MOB to school and the cordial relationship he had maintained with him overtime, telling us in Ekiti that he needed Opeyemi at the Senate. What Asiwaju said at the palace changed the political narrative. 

“Today, my brother, you are the Senate leader and we can now see why the President was trying to say. 

“We thanked the President for investing so much in you and we thank the people of Lagos State for polishing you for us in Ekiti. We must also thank the leadership of the Senate for finding you worthy of this position, and we assure them that they have found the very right person fit and proper for the job.”

The Governor said Senator Bamidele had not disappointed his mentor and the people of EKiti State through his humility and leadership style, which according to him, is based on selflessness, dignity and integrity. 

He lauded the Senate Leader’s positive contribution to the political and economic growth of the state, saying that he imported his political experience in Lagos for the development of EKiti State as well as replicating the lessons of discovering and positioning people for greatness as well as dialogue in solving knotty issues.

Also speaking, the Keynote speaker, a former President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Chief Wole Olanipekun(SAN), described Senator Bamidele as an example of the Omoluabi virtues of EKiti State. He charged political players to take a cue from his noble character.

Delivering a lecture titled “Leader challenges in modern society”, a former Vice Chancellor of the Lagos State University, Professor Toyin Ogundipe said contemporary leaders must show dynamism while addressing issues in the fast changing environment. 

He stressed the need for leaders to inspire others and show them the path to achieving their goals.

At the Occasion were members of the National Assembly, led by the Senate President Godswill Akpabio, former Governors Niyi Adebayo, Nyesom Wike, Traditional rulers including the Ewi Of Ado Ekiti Oba Rufus Adejugbe and the Oluyin Oba Adeniyi Ajakaiye among others.

A Remarkable Milestone: Hon. Makinde Araoye Joins Senator Michael Bamidele's 60th Birthday.

A Remarkable Milestone: Hon. Makinde Araoye Joins Senator Michael Bamidele's 60th Birthday.

In a momentous celebration of a prominent figure's milestone, Honourable Makinde Araoye graced the 60th birthday lecture and book presentation of the esteemed Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele. The event, aptly titled "Leadership through Communication," brought together distinguished guests from all walks of life to commemorate the illustrious career and outstanding contributions of the celebrated senator.

The atmosphere was filled with joy and admiration as friends, family, colleagues, and well-wishers gathered to honor the Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele on his 60th birthday. Notably, Honourable Makinde Araoye, a loyal democrat and core progressive, praise the Senator's exceptional leadership and dedication to the nation.

The birthday lecture focused on the essential role communication plays in effective leadership. Senator Bamidele, known for his eloquence and ability to connect with people, shared valuable insights on how effective communication can inspire positive change and foster unity in diverse communities.

In addressing the Newsmen Honourable Makinde Araoye lauded Senator Bamidele's exceptional leadership qualities, describing him as an inspiration to many aspiring politicians. "He emphasized the Senator's dedication to the democratic ideals and progressive values that have earned him respect and admiration across party lines, he said."

The event concluded with warm wishes and heartfelt prayers for the Senate Leader, as attendees celebrated not only his accomplishments but also the promise of a future enriched by his continued dedication to the service of the nation.

As Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele begins a new chapter in his life, he remains a beacon of hope for the Nigerian people, standing as a shining example of what true leadership and effective communication can achieve in the pursuit of a prosperous and united nation.