Rescued Ekiti kidnap victims discharged from hospital, rejoins families.

Rescued Ekiti kidnap victims discharged from hospital, rejoins families.

Following  a week- long medical treatment at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado- Ekiti, the eight kidnap victims were on Sunday discharged having fully certified to have stabilised. 

They comprised five schoolchildren and three staff of The Apostolic Faith Group of Schools, Emure Ekiti.

They were kidnapped along Emure-Eporo Road on their way home from school and spent six days in the kidnappers’ den before they were released in the early hours of Sunday last week.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr Oyebanji Filani, said it was a moment of joy, happiness and excitement having the people rescued from the kidnappers and treated by the government.

Dr Filani, who spoke at the premises of EKSUTH while discharging them, said, “As a government, having had them, including the children released, and having had them properly treated by various teams from management here in the teaching hospital, we would be returning them to their community.”

The Government also provided transportation and security for the victims and their family on their journey back to Emure where they were returned safely to the Elemure palace. 

EKSUTH Chief Medical Director, Prof. Kayode Olabanji, had assured when the eight persons were brought in last Sunday, that they would be given necessary medical attention before they would be discharged.

Prof Olabanji  had said, “They were in various conditions when they were brought in, some of them were so dehydrated, we don’t know when last they had taken water or even food. Many of the pupils were in a panic state, you could see that they were very terrified. However, immediately after we brought them in, they were attended to by doctors, nurses and the various specialties.

“We brought in clinical psychologists who could work on them to allay their fears. They were given the initial resuscitations, including rehydration; they were given fluids and some who needed oxygen were given oxygen.

“After they had stabilised a bit, they were even given food. Now, they are much better, we will still carry out a few investigations to fully appraise their situation,” the CMD said.

The grandmother of three of the school children, Mrs Dorcas Ojo, said ishe woukd have committed suicide  if the kidnappers had not released her three grandchildren.

The woman, who said the eight abducted persons were saved by God Almighty through the prayers of the people of Emure Ekiti and Eporo Ekiti, said, “The abductors made the children undergo what their parents had never experienced.

“They (children) were traumatised by the kidnappers as they were forced to trek a long distance in the bush, not staying in one location and also not given food to eat for the days they were in captivity.” She added.

Oyebanji Urges Ekiti Tertiary Institutions to justify Increased Subvention.

Oyebanji Urges Ekiti Tertiary Institutions to justify Increased Subvention.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has called on the management of Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti and other tertiary institutions in the state to justify recent increment in government subvention to them through tangible outcomes.

The State University had its subvention increased from N260 million to N410 million monthly, while other state owned institutions also got different increments, in a move aimed at ameliorating the financial challenges confronting the institutions. 

Speaking at an event in Abuja, Sunday evening, where he was honored as one of the Distinguished Alumni of Ekiti State University (EKSU), organized by the institution's management in partnership with the alumni association, Governor Oyebanji emphasized the need for competitiveness among the state owned institutions within the national and global education landscape.

The Governor explained that his administration's decision to effect a major increase in subventions to EKSU and other institutions was to ensure significant improvement in their activities. 

Expressing dissatisfaction with the prevailing situation in the state owned institutions, particularly in EKSU, Governor Oyebanji urged the university management to introspect and rectify existing errors, and restore the institution's erstwhile dignity, values, and esteemed reputation.

Articulating his expectations, the Governor charged the university management to leverage the expertise of appointed dignitaries such as the Chancellor, Pro Chancellor, and council members to harness resources effectively, elevate the stature of the institution and ultimately make the state proud of its investments in the educational sector. 

Appreciating the award given him by EKSU management, Governor Oyebanji said genuine transformation could only be demonstrated through substantive and practical changes in the performance of both management and union leaders, whose altitude significantly influence the fate of numerous students.

Expressing fears that the increase in subvention might not bring the expected changes, Governor Oyebanji urged the management of the institutions to prove him wrong by utilizing the additional funds to improve on the lots of the institutions. This, he said would encourage his administration to do more. 

He lamented incessant strike action by teaching and non teaching staffs of the University, which he said has discouraged and frustrated many students and parents, Governor Oyebanji expressed the hope that the additional funding would be spent on those critical areas ‘

On current efforts to address electricity situation on the EKSU campus by connecting the campus to the state Independent Power Plant (IPP), Governor Oyenanji disclosed that the University should be prepared to pay for the electricity supply, stressing that the IPP is a private sector initiative supported by Government. 

“Let me make it clear here that while government is footing the bills for connecting the university to the IPP, the university should be prepared to pay for the power supply. Government is paying for electricity supply to its offices because this is a private arrangement. 

I am stating this now so that when the company requests for its payment it does not become an issue for strike action again’

Among those honored alongside the Governor were the First Lady of the state, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Global President of the Alumni Association Engineer Dipo Bamisaiye, Speaker, Ekiti State Housenof Assembly, Rt Hon Adeoye Aribasoye, among others. 

Earlier, the Pro Chancellor of EKSU, Prof. Akin Oyebode, commended Governor Oyebanji's proactive approach towards addressing structural and infrastructural challenges within the institution. 

He highlighted the significance of the increased subvention, which is set to propel the university management towards devising innovative solutions aimed at restoring the institution's erstwhile glory. Prof. Oyebode affirmed the Governor's unwavering commitment to repositioning tertiary education in the state, assuring that such initiatives would yield tangible outcomes.

In his remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Edward Olanipekun explained the rationale behind honoring distinguished alumni, noting the government's strides in addressing various challenges confronting the institution, including financial constraints, provision of alternative power supply through IPP, and internal road construction.

Expressing their delight at the recognition bestowed upon them, the awardees pledged to redouble their efforts, with Senator Bamidele emphasizing a commitment of One Billion Naira towards a constituency project aimed at enhancing the university's infrastructure and overall educational facilities.

Shun Rivalry, Bad Politics, Oyebanji Warns Elected LG Officials.

Shun Rivalry, Bad Politics, Oyebanji Warns Elected LG Officials.

....Promises strong Infrastructures, anti-poverty policies in councils.

The Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, on Monday, warned the newly elected Local Government Councilors against perceiving their Chairmen as rivals, saying this could dim the chances of effecting positive changes and development at the third tier of government.

To avert internal squabbles that could stoke intra-party crisis and derail governance, Oyebanji urged the elected officials to work harmoniously with the executive to effectively implement the policies of government geared towards cascading development to the council areas for the benefit of the grassroots' population. 

Oyebanji said these in Ikere Ekiti, while flagging off a one-day capacity training powered by a House of Representatives member, Hon. Adeniyi Ojuawo for the newly elected councilors in Ise/Orun, Ikere and Ekiti Southwest Local Government Areas of the State .

The governor, represented by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, congratulated the councilors on their victories in the recent local government election, appealing that they should discharge their legislative duties with utmost honesty, passion, dedication, loyalty and diligence.

Oyebanji advised that they perceive the opportunity as a veritable window to make tremendous positive impacts in the lives of the electorate, and not an avenue for corrupt enrichment and playing of divisive politics.

"In displaying this loyalty, you must shun any act that could ignite crisis in your councils. Don't perceive your Chairmen as rivals, rather, cooperate with them in discharge of your legislative and other oversight functions to help Governor Oyebanji cascades development down to the grassroots to liberate our people from poverty, neglect and exclusion. 

"Governor Oyebanji has even set a pace about how an ideal Executive/Legislature relationship should be, with his unbreakable affinity with the members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly. Kindly take a cue from this.

"You all know the priority Governor Oyebanji places on the development of our local government system and getting it right in our local politics. This, he had demonstrated by the quantum of projects he initiated at that cadre by allowing high leverage of financial independence for our councils under his impressive and superlative leadership. 

"Be rest assured that this loyalty to our people Governor Oyebanji has been exhibiting will continue for the task of making Ekiti progressive across boards to be attainable under this current government".

He added that the capacity building workshop was primarily conceptualised by the sponsor for you to be imbued with knowledge f legislation, saying similar training was organised for the Local Government Chairmen shortly after they were inaugurated into offices.

"Going by the 1999 Constitution as amended, the Councilors are empowered to represent their wards, spearhead community's political leadership, developing council policy and for Planning and regulation for smooth operation of the Local Government System to engender good governance. 

"I appeal to you to work assiduously to ensure you don't dash the hope and confidence reposed in you by the electorate who massively voted for you at the poll. I want you to discharge your statutory duties with dedication, honesty, passion and loyalty to the Constitution of the Federal Republic Of Nigeria".

To prevent misappropriation of funds and other forms of corrupt tendencies, Oyebanji promised not to poke-nose into how the councils deploy their funds, but said he would emplace mechanisms to monitor compliance with financial regulations for the benefit of rural dwellers.

In his submission, the sponsor and lawmaker representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, Hon. Ojuawo, revealed that the programme, done in partnership with a Non-governmental organisation: Grassroots Leadership Development Initiative, is to broaden the mental horizons of the councilors. 

Ojuawo urged the councilors to display high sense of industry and sacrifices in their services to the state, warning that the consequences will be dire, if they disappoint their immediate communities.

Tinubu Hails The Super Eagles.

Tinubu Hails The Super Eagles.

....Says Team Demonstrated The Great Resilience And Talent Of The Nigerian People. 

President Bola Tinubu salutes the Super Eagles of Nigeria for their tenacious performance in the final of the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d'Ivoire. 

President Tinubu commends the team, the coach, the crew, and the entire management team for their hard work, assiduity, and sacrifice to come this far in the tournament, acknowledging the hurdles they consistently surpassed with steadily improving performance as they pulled through to the finals.

The President urges Nigerians to be of good cheer, emphasizing that we won a great victory in the hearts of Africa and the world by our grit, rigour, and determination in the field of play.

"Let this passing event not dispirit us, but bring us together to work harder. We are a great nation bound as one by the green-white-green banner of resilience, joy, hope, duty, and untiring love. To those cherished Nigerian youths expressing their gifts in communities, drawing lines in the sand as they play football in their humble rectangles of play, you can be our heroes tomorrow, do not relent in your pursuit. My administration is here to make dreams come true," the President says. 

Governor Oyebanji's Social Investment Initiatives Benefit Thousands in Ekiti State

Governor Oyebanji's Social Investment Initiatives Benefit Thousands in Ekiti State.       By Comr Olamide Akinwumi 

In a bid to uplift the lives of citizens and foster socio-economic development, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji of Ekiti State has implemented a series of impactful social investment programs. These initiatives have reached thousands of beneficiaries across various sectors, demonstrating the governor's commitment to serving the people.

Among the notable achievements are the disbursement of N200 million to 3,500 beneficiaries through the Ekiti State Cash Transfer Unit (SCTU), providing crucial financial support to vulnerable households. Additionally, 1,326 individuals have been enrolled in the Labour Intensive Public Work (LIPW) program, receiving monthly stipends of N12,500 to enhance their livelihoods.

In response to natural disasters, Governor Oyebanji's administration distributed relief materials worth N24 million to victims of rainstorm disasters in Oke-Ako and Ijesa-Isu Ekiti. Furthermore, N50 million worth of relief materials were provided through the Federal Government's Special National Economic Livelihood Emergency Intervention (SNELEI) Programme, offering much-needed assistance to affected communities.

The governor's commitment to social welfare extends to institutions under the Ministry, where regular payments of monthly subvention and feeding allowances are ensured. Notably, training programs for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) responders have been conducted, equipping social workers, traditional rulers, medical practitioners, and the judiciary with skills for effective case management and treatment referrals.

Governor Oyebanji's dedication to infrastructure development is evident in the completion of the renovation of the Ekiti State Civic Centre, with the ground floor handed over to anchor tenants, Jara/Shoprite. Additionally, the approval of N28 million for Ire Clay Products Limited recapitalization underscores the government's support for local industries and economic growth.

As Governor Oyebanji celebrates his recent birthday, his inclusive approach to governance is highlighted through initiatives such as celebrating with Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), showcasing his commitment to ensuring that all segments of society are included in the state's progress. Ekiti State continues to benefit from his leadership as the people's governor, fostering mutual relationships and driving positive change across the region.

Northern elders to discuss economic, security agenda with Fed Govt.

Northern elders to discuss economic, security agenda with Fed Govt.

Northern elite under the aegis of Arewa New Agenda (ANA) are set to engage the Federal Government with a set of proposals on how to stem insecurity and poverty, especially in the North and the country in general.

According to the elders, the proposals, if considered and implemented, would pave the way for lasting prosperity for the entire country.

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Yayale Ahmed, revealed this at the opening of the “Follow-on Conference on Tackling Poverty in Northern Nigeria” in Abuja at the weekend.

ANA Convener, Ahmad MoAllahyidi, presented the proposals to the elders that included former governors- Isa Yuguda and Sani Yerima-; Jonathan Zwingina, Babangida Ngoruje, former Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Danladi Kifasi; Fatima Adams and Chairman, National Hajj Commission, Jalal Arabi.

Ahmed said: “As elders, we agreed and submitted to the service of Nigeria and to the upliftment of the northern part of Nigeria, not because we are broken but it’s because we are realists.

“We want to change our style and strategies in dealing with the issues and problems of northern Nigeria.

“Our responsibility is not to just say the Government is not working, government must work through our contributions, the government must be responsible through our being responsible, the government must be committed through our commitment.

“We are a patriotic group of Nigerians, the outcomes of these efforts will be communicated to the people that are in power for improvement of the generality of the people.”

ANA also emphasised the need for the Federal Government to actively support the North in leveraging the Nigerian Start-Up for Businesses Act of 2022. This, it said, would enable companies in the region to conduct research, provide training, and develop globally impactful products.

The proposals, according to ANA Convener Ahmad MoAllahyidi, are Pathway to Prosperity Approach, Farming and Agriculture as well as the establishment of Integrated Enterprising Productivity Inclusion Platforms in each of the 19 Northern states.

The Pathway to Prosperity Approach involves matching vulnerable households and communities with the necessary skills to participate in the local economy actively. It will in the first instance support 100,000 vulnerable households per state to increase production and productivity within 15 months.

On Farming and Agriculture, ANA proposes the expansion of arable land in the country to 65 percent within four years.

ANA also plans to see 10 million jobs created for youth and other demographics through the Integrated Enterprising Productivity Inclusion Platforms.

MoAllahyidi said: “The model has the potential to generate over N50 trillion cumulative per capital income annually, while insurgency, banditry and other social vices will be reduced drastically.

“It will also boost our foreign reserve earnings and stabilize our economy

“Training of youths on renewable energy systems (solar, wind and biomass) as a component of livelihoods enhancement and a response to climate change.

“Passing on the gift is a social intervention concept and the anticipated result from the scheme is to service up to 1,000 households per state for the 19 States.

“Another proposal is the tissue culture for propagation of seedlings which is a simplified neglected intervention. This is a concept that builds an average of two million seedlings a year using micro-propagation.” 

ANA also appealed to the Federal Government to reconsider some policy measures, such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) sanctions on Niger Republic, particularly the closure of borders.

It noted that the reconsideration was necessary due to the negative implications for the economy of the states in the North.

Babalola seeks urgent solution to inflation, naira devaluation.

Babalola seeks urgent solution to inflation, naira devaluation.

In Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State capital yesterday, elder statesman and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Afe Babalola admonished President Bola Tinubu to adopt solution-driven interventions for the economic and security challenges facing Nigerians.

Elder statesman Babalola listed inflation, naira depreciation and kidnapping as issues that have put Nigerians in pain.

Babalola, at the sixth induction of 161 Afe Babalola University Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) medical doctors, said the surge in inflation and the “worthless” value of the naira had further imposed hardship on Nigerians and eroded the production capacities of small and medium-scale enterprises.

The ABUAD founder added that the economic pressure propels some frustrated Nigerians into criminal activities, including kidnapping.

Describing the recent killing of some monarchs by kidnappers as “an unusual development,” the elder statesman said, “something has to be urgently done about the issue of kidnapping.”

Babalola also stressed the urgent need for the Federal Government to boost local food production and for the migration of Nigerians, otherwise known as Japa syndrome, to be checked.   

He specifically enjoined the inducted medical doctors to shun the urge to ply their trade abroad.

His words: “The Japa syndrome is a development in the country. This syndrome has to stop and the only way to stop it is to increase the salaries and wages of workers, which in my case I did by increasing the salary of my workers by 35 percent.

“Many farmers have left their farmland now because of kidnappers, something has to be urgently done about the issue of kidnapping. Farmers have to be encouraged to go back to their farms.

“It is saddening that monarchs are killed, it is an unusual development. what is behind all these is that we have no money, our money has no value and our currency is as worthless as toilet paper. Something has to be done about the naira and productivity. “I have seen people, especially, in the North agitating because the naira is getting worse, food prices are high, no employment, and those who get it are not paid. Something has to be done about it.”