Ekiti Assembly Condemns Attack and Killing Of Monarchs; Abduction Of Some School Pupils In Ekiti State.

Ekiti Assembly Condemns Attack and Killing Of Monarchs; Abduction Of Some School Pupils In Ekiti State.

....Charges security apparatus in the state to investigate and bring the perpetrators to book.

The Ekiti House of Assembly on Tuesday 30th January, 2024 strongly condemned the attacks, killings and kidnapping of citizens in Ekiti State by unknown gunmen.

Report had come on Monday evening that unknown gunmen attacked three members of the Ekiti State Traditional Council in Ajoni Local Council Development Area, including the abduction of an unspecified number of pupils of a missionary nursery and primary school in Emure Local Government area of the state.

While two monarchs of Esun-Ekiti, Oba David Babatunde Ogunsakin and Oba Olatunde Samuel Olusola of Imojo-Ekiti were killed in the ambush by armed men, Oba Adebayo Fatoba the Alara of Ara-Ekiti, narrowly escaped. The highest proportion of crime in the area was perpetrated on Monday evening around Oke-Ako community while the monarchs were returning from a meeting.

Reacting through the Chairman House Committee on Media and Public Affairs Hon. Babatunde Oke, the Speaker Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye urged the security agencies in the state to not only carry out a comprehensive investigation into the reoccurring attacks in that axis of the state, but should apprehend and bring the perpetrators of the twin attack to book and make the state safe for residents.

Aribasoye who sympathized with the affected towns whose monarchs were attacked and killed, including the families of the abducted pupils, bemoaned the state of insecurity in the country, expressed concern that, “the killing, maiming, kidnapping and wanton destruction of lives and property by unauthorized men in possession of sophisticated arms have become the common experience of innocent citizens in recent time.

“You are aware that few weeks ago we visited the commissioner of police in the state and top among issues discussed was security of lives and properties of the citizens."

In the meantime, the House has called for an emergency plenary session to discuss the insecurity scourge in the state on Wednesday 31st January, 2024.

Tinubu Condemns Killing of Ekiti Traditional Rulers, Orders Immediate Rescue of Kidnapped Pupils.

Tinubu Condemns Killing of Ekiti Traditional Rulers, Orders Immediate Rescue of Kidnapped Pupils.

In a press release from the State House, President Bola Tinubu expresses deep grief over the tragic killing of two traditional rulers in Ekiti State, namely the Onimojo of Imojo-Ekiti, Oba Olatunde Samuel Olusola, and the Elesun of Esun-Ekiti, Oba David Babatunde Ogunsola.

President Tinubu vehemently condemns the mindless and brutal bloodletting, vowing that the perpetrators will face justice for their actions. The President extends heartfelt condolences to the families, subjects of the traditional rulers, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, and the entire Ekiti State community, acknowledging the profound pain caused by this tragic incident.

In response to the kidnapping of pupils and teachers in the Eporo-Ekiti area, President Tinubu directs immediate and decisive action for their rescue. Emphasizing that the security of life and property is the government's primary responsibility, he reassures Nigerians that the nation's security architecture is undergoing robust fortification to achieve better and expected outcomes.

The President's Special Adviser, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, communicates these directives and assurances in the press release dated January 30, 2024.

Ekiti Govt Markets Opportunities in Tourism, Agric to Foreign Investors.

Ekiti Govt Markets Opportunities in Tourism, Agric to Foreign Investors.

.....Receives US based humanist, philanthropist.

The Ekiti State Government, on Monday promised to use every legitimate means to market its huge potentials in education, agriculture and tourism to the global community to boost its industrial development and growth.

The government said Governor Biodun Oyebanji was deploying resources accruing to Ekiti to provide enabling environment for business with the sole aim of increasing industrial development and shore up the revenue profile of the state. 

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye spoke on Tuesday, while receiving a United States of America based philanthropist and owner of Global Lawson Charity Organisation, Amb Ibrahim Lawson Fofanah, at her office in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.

The Guinean born Ambassador was on a working visit to the Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adewole, who had been invested as the Grand Patron of the international NGO. 

Applauding Ambassador  Fofanah for visiting Ekiti, Mrs Afuye, said the government was ready to partner foreign investors to make  investment exploits in tourism, farming and education, where Ekiti enjoys favourable comparative advantage. 

She said: "We  appreciate Ambassador Fofanah's exploits in ensuring that every humanity lives in peace and comfort going  by the  level of philanthropism his NGO had done in capacity building and in fighting poverty in Africa.

"By all standards of measurement, Ekiti remained one of the most peaceful and investment-friendly states in the country. We also have one of the most viable tourist attractions like Ikogosi Warm springs, Arinta Waterfall, Ogun Onire groove among others. Try and visit those places to know how viable we are in this sector".

In his submission, Ambassador Fofanah, described Governor Oyebanji as a focused and pragmatic leader, who was desirous of making a difference in the lives of Ekiti citizens.

Ambassador Fofanah stated that he had earlier visited the Afe Babalola University on a tour of the citadel of learning and the ABUAD multi system hospital, the two facilities he said were gradually  changing the face of education and health sectors in the country.

He said having considered  himself as a son of the soil because of his fraternity with Ajero, that he was ready to partner with the  government to make Ekiti better in all spheres.

Amb Fofanah stated that he had always been serving Africans in USA through his NGO, regardless of differential in countries, saying this is the best spirit every African citizen must imbibe to make the continent better.

He said Ekiti was blessed with good leaders like  Governor  Biodun Oyebanji, the Deputy Governor and  Oba Adewole, who are ready to make tremendous impacts in the lives of the citizens with their leadership positions.

The frontline traditional ruler and the Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adewole, who is hosting the visitor, said he met Ambassador Fofanah in USA in 2018 and struck a cord of friendship with him because of his interest in Africa, particularly Nigeria. 

The monarch said he decided to take Ambassador Fofanah  on a tour of Ekiti for him to be abreast of the fact  that the state is a land of opportunities. 

Those who joined the Deputy Governor to receive  Ambassador Fofanah included: Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Hon. Ojo Atobioke, Permanent Secretary, Office of the Deputy Governor, Mr Abayomi Opeyemi, Special Adviser on Special Education, Adetoun Agboola, among others.

Shettima inaugurates 37-member minimum wage committee.

Shettima inaugurates 37-member minimum wage committee.

The Federal Government on Tuesday inaugurated the tripartite committee on the national minimum wage. Vice President Kashim Shettima inaugurated the 37-member panel at the Council Chamber of the State House in Abuja.

With its membership cutting across federal, and state governments, the private sector, and organised labour, the panel is to recommend a new national minimum wage for the country.

In his opening address, Shettima urged members to “speedily” arrive at a resolution and submit their reports early as the current N30,000 minimum wage expires at the end of March 2024.

This timely submission is crucial to ensure the emergence of a new minimum wage,” Shettima said.

VP Shettima also urged collective bargaining in good faith, emphasising contract adherence and encouraging consultations outside the committee.

In May 2017, the House of Representatives moved to amend the National Minimum Wage Act for a compulsory review of workers’ remuneration every five years.

Consequently, the Minimum Wage Act of 2019 signed by former President Muhammadu Buhari empowers the committee to deliberate and come up with an agreed wage which would be eventually ratified by the National Assembly after due legislative scrutiny.

Buhari had also signed the minimum wage act that approved N30,000 for both federal and state workers in the same year.

However, President Bola Tinubu announced the discontinuance of fuel subsidy on May 29, 2023, which triggered a sharp rise in the general cost of living.

Although the administration approved an additional NGN 35,000 wage award for six months (starting September 2023) to alleviate the impact of the subsidy removal, the organised labour maintained that this was only a provisional solution and called for a complete review of the minimum wage in 2024.

Chairing the panel is a former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Bukar Aji who, at the inauguration ceremony, affirmed that its members would come up with a “fair, practical, implementable and sustainable,” minimum wage.

Tuesday’s inauguration follows months of agitation from organised labour who expressed concerns over the FG’s failure to inaugurate the new national minimum wage committee as promised during negotiations last October.

From the government’s side, members include the Minister of State, Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, representing the Minister of Labour and Employment; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, who was represented by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs Lydia Jafiya.

The Minister of Budget Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu; Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Yemi Esan; Permanent Secretary, GSO. OSGF, Dr. Nnamdi Maurice Mbaeri; and Chairman/CEO, NSIWC – Member/Secretary, Ekpo Nta are also members.

Representing the Nigeria Governors Forum are Mohammed Bago of Niger State, representing the North Central; Sen. Bala Mohammed, Governor of Bauchi State- representing the North East; Umar Dikko Radda of Katsina State, representing the North West; Prof. Charles Soludo of Anambra State, representing the South East; Sen. Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, from South West; and Otu Bassey of Cross River State who is representing the South-South.

From the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, Director-General, NECA; Mr Chuma Nwankwo; Mr Thompson Akpabio with also members from the Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture are Asiwaju Michael Olawale-Cole, National President; Ahmed Rabiu, National Vice President and Chief Humphrey Ngonadi, National Life President.

The members from the National Association of Small and Medium Enterprises are Dr Abdulrashid Yerima, President & Chairman of the Council; Hon. Theophilus Nnorom Okwuchukwu, Private Sector representative; Dr Muhammed Nura Bello, Zonal Vice President, North West and also from the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria are Mrs. Grace Omo-Lamai, Human Resource Director, Nigerian Breweries; Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director-General, MAN; Lady Ada Chukwudozie, Managing Director, Dozzy Oil and Gas Limited.

From the organised labour, the Nigeria Labour Congress Joe Ajaero, President, NLC; Emmanuel Ugboaja; Prince Adeyanju Adewale; Ambali Akeem Olatunji; Benjamin Anthony and Prof. Theophilus Ndukuba.

Also, members from the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria are Festus Osifo, President, TUC; Tommy Etim Okon, Deputy President I, TUC; Kayode Surajudeen Alakija, Deputy President II; Jimoh Oyibo, Deputy President III; Nuhu Toro, Secretary-General and Hafusatu Shuaib, Chairperson Women Community.

Architect Sola Omotoso Celebrates Godmother (Dr) Mrs Mosun Belo-Olusoga's Doctorate Honor from Olabisi Onabanjo University.

Architect Sola Omotoso Celebrates Godmother (Dr) Mrs Mosun Belo-Olusoga's Doctorate Honor from Olabisi Onabanjo University.

In a joyous celebration, Arc Sola Omotoso congratulates (Dr) Mrs Mosunmola Belo-Olusoga, who double as the former chairman of Access Bank and the immediate past Pro Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye Ogun State. As she bags a prestigious doctorate degree from the school on Wednesday, 31st January. 

This honorary accolade stands as a testament to Dr. Belo-Olusoga's unwavering commitment to excellence, exceptional leadership, and dedication to humanitarian services. Her continuous pursuit of greatness and the positive impact she instills in every endeavor make this recognition well-deserved.

Sola Omotoso expresses a deep belief in Dr. Belo-Olusoga's capabilities and envisions her reaching even greater heights in the future. Her legacy of excellence serves as an inspiration to those fortunate enough to witness her accomplishments.

The legacy of Dr. Belo-Olusoga becomes even more pronounced with each accolade she receives, marking her as a trailblazer and an embodiment of dedication and perseverance. The recognition from Olabisi Onabanjo University underscores her significant contributions to various spheres, leaving an indelible mark on the academic and professional landscape.

As the congratulatory messages pour in, Arc Sola Omotoso's gesture of celebrating this achievement with an expansive and heartening message reflects not just a personal connection but a profound acknowledgment of the positive influence Dr. Belo-Olusoga exerts on her associates and the community at large.

In this moment of celebration, Arc Omotoso wishes his dear godmother more significant achievements, continued success, and a future filled with even greater accomplishments. The honor from Olabisi Onabanjo University is just one among many more to come for this distinguished individual.

Fayemi Condemns Killing of Two Traditional Rulers by Kidnappers, Pleads for Community.

Fayemi Condemns Killing of Two Traditional Rulers by Kidnappers, Pleads for Community.

The former governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has strongly condemned the killing of two traditional rulers by suspected kidnappers in the state.

In a press statement issued on Tuesday, Fayemi expressed his profound sadness and deep sorrow over the senseless killings of Oba David Ogunsakin, the Elesun of Esun Ekiti, and Oba Olatunde Olusola, the Olumajo of Imole Ekiti, which occurred on Monday.

He expressed his deepest condolences to the government and people of Ekiti State over the unfortunate incident and sympathized with the families, friends, and communities affected by the appalling act of violence.

Fayemi said such acts of violence have no place in society and called on the security agencies to swiftly and thoroughly investigate the heinous crime and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

He also urged the people of Ekiti State to be more vigilant, as the country has witnessed an upsurge in the activity of kidnappers since the start of the New Year.

The former Ekiti state governor said he stands in solidarity with the government and people of Ekiti State in the efforts to rid the state of this menace and appealed for an all-of-society approach to solving this national problem.

Fayemi said as the people mourn the untimely passing of the two traditional rulers, they must work together to foster a culture of peace, tolerance, and respect for human life.

Fayemi, who was also the chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, prayed for strength and solace for the families of the victims, and may the Lord grant them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

The killing of the two traditional rulers has sparked outrage and condemnation from various quarters, including the Ekiti State Government.

According to reports, the traditional rulers were ambushed and killed by the gunmen along the Ipao-Irele-Oke Ako road in Ikole Local Government Area, while returning from a security meeting at Irele Ekiti.

The attackers were said to have taken their personal belongings and dragged their bodies into the bush.

The Alara of Ara-Ekiti, Oba Adebayo Fatoba, who was driving the vehicle conveying the three monarchs, managed to escape from the incident.

Oyebanji urges calmness, says Government will rescue kidnapped pupils.

Oyebanji urges calmness, says Government will rescue kidnapped pupils. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has urged the citizens of the state not to despair over Monday’s kidnapping of some school pupils and their teachers in Emure- Ekiti, assuring that efforts are on to get the children and their teachers rescued. 

Six pupils of a private school in Emure-Ekiti, three teachers and the bus driver were abducted while returning to Eporo- Ekiti, Monday evening. 

The Governor, who described the kidnapping of the school pupils, as callous and unacceptable, said nothing would be spared in the efforts to rescue them. 

According to a statement by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media, security agencies in the state are already on the trail of the abductors with a mandate to bring the pupils and their teachers back safely. 

Governor Oyebanji said security is being stepped up across the state with a view to flushing out criminal elements from their hideouts. 

While calling on the citizens to remain calm and vigilant, he urged them to cooperate with security agencies, by making available relevant information to the authorities.