Raheem Akingbolu pens an open letter to Hon. Idowu Afuye.

Raheem Akingbolu pens an open letter to Hon. Idowu Afuye.

Dear Hon. Afuye,

In the last 72 hours I have been reading some snippets on social media that were linked to you. 

At the beginning, I doubted if indeed you wrote those things. I waited and waited for you to come out and dissociate yourself from those blasphemous writings that were meant to disparage the person of Mr. Governor, His Excellency Biodun Oyebanji and rubbish his work. 

Hon. Afuye, I was one of those who met you the day you led a few guys to Ajilosun office of the All Progressives Congress (APC). After the short but memorable ceremony that heralded your defection into APC and I was introduced to you as BAO's SA Media, you picked interest in me and we kicked-off a friendly relationship. From that moment, the Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji's campaign office at GRA became your second home. 

In Pic: Hon. Afuye

Throughout the campaign, you were always in the situation office in company of one young man, in his late 20s or early 30s. You later introduced him to me as your PA/Media Assistant. One thing I noticed was that BAO and other APC leaders gave you the respect you desired and you had unbridled access to him. One evening, after a short meeting with the then APC Governorship candidate, you came out joyfully and beckoned on me to have a private audience with you. I remember your exact words, "Mr. Raheem, your principal is super and a God-sent to Ekiti". Though I didn't know what happened behind the curtail but you spent about five minutes, praising and profiling BAO in positive picture. You spoke of his homegrown advantage, his understanding of Ekiti and its nuances, BAO generosity and his fertile mind. 

After inauguration, anytime we had opportunity to meet, you always took charge, praising and reeling out good attributes of the Governor. 

Two weeks ago, precisely on March 15, you chatted me up via messenger, to find out if I'm in Ekiti. Unfortunately, I was out of town and I told you so. You even pressed further to find out if I was out of the country. Perhaps, if I had met you, the discussion would have centered on BAO again and his wonders.  

Hon. Afuye, I respect you so much but I fear, this latest development might reduce your rating and political worth. I doubt you are the one oozing out all these negative stuffs because of all those positive things you have said about the Governor in the recent past. One question I have consistently asked myself is; what happened to Hon. Afuye and since when?

As you must have read in the comment section of various platforms, many people have suggested reasons behind your outburst and I must confess, none, I repeat, none of those suggestions position you as Omoluabi. 

One, some have reasoned that you were threatened by the defection of your former Principal, Erelu Elebute - Hallie who graciously made you his deputy governorship candidate during the build up to the 2022 election. Someone even quoted you as lamenting that Erelu was coming to steal show from you and 'block' your meal ticket.

Secondly my brother, the most popular opinion out there is that you are being used by some faceless enemies of government, who were desperately looking for a character like Kanu, Nzeribe and Ogundokun of the inglorious Abacha/Babangida military days, who will be ready to be used for cheap propaganda to demarket the Governor. 

Finally, you have been described as an hustler who is desperate for attention. 

Dear brother, whatever may be the reason for your recent tantrum, it's not good for your personality brand. It gives you away as a cheap politician who stands for nothing and sings only to whoever that butters his bread.

Hon. Afuye, don't you think Erelu Elebute - Hallie will currently be laughing at you. Also, your former co-travellers in Erelu's former party, ADP, will be mocking you and calling you names. Can we blame them?

Sincerely, you fall my hands terribly because I assumed you stood for integrity and would guide yours jealously. 

Just this morning, I read somewhere that you were planing to address the press in Abuja. You must have been wrongly quoted. I know you won't contemplate that. Press briefing in Abuja over what or for what? If truly you are coming to Abuja, then you have confirmed the position of those who said you are either looking for attention or being used by some faceless politicians to run Oyebanji and his administration down. If indeed your worry is about Ekiti and for Ekiti, then coming to Abuja is nothing but attention seeking (mis)adventure. 

On a final note my Honourable, I'm advising you as a friend and brother and in the interest of our lofty future to stop all these dishonourable misadventures. These acts will not make you but mar you. Perhaps you would have been taken serious by many people out there if you don't have access to the governor. 

 Happy Easter,

©️Raheem Akingbolu

Easter Celebration, A Moment to Reflect the Virtues of Christ: Omoluabi Group Felicitate with Christians Nationwide.

Easter Celebration, A Moment to Reflect the Virtues of Christ: Omoluabi Group Felicitate with Christians Nationwide.

Omoluabi Socio- Cultural and Political Group also known as Egbe Omoluabi joined several millions of Christians across the country as they gladly felicitate with Christ on the occasion of His death and resurrection. The celebration being an annual festive period among christians is a special moment to reflect on the circumstances surrounding the death and His resurrection on the third day against all odds.  

The group through its' National Convener, Omoluabi Dr. Jayeola Afolabi in his statement advised christians of all faiths either orthodox or pentecostal to imbibe the attitude of christ in all their doings as well as reflect passionately on the circumstances surrounding the death and resurrection of the world' s greatest saviour and Lord.  

He however reiterated that this season is a moment to be sober and justify the essence of the resurrection of Jesus Christ for Christians.

The group also advise that it has now become pertinent to also use this moment to pray for the continuing resurgence of our nation' s economy from a creeping one to developed and advanced economy where every Nigerian can thrive and prosper. Nigerians are also encouraged never to loose hope in the renewed hope agenda of Mr. President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he is determined to provide quality leadership as the nation's head.

Omoluabi group sincerely wish christian brothers and sisters a happy easter fiesta.

 E-Signed:

 Omoluabi Dr. Jayeola, AO.

 National Convener

 31/3/2024

Easter: Fayemi preaches love, empathy and forgiveness.

Easter: Fayemi preaches love, empathy and forgiveness.

Dr Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State and Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), has extended heartfelt greetings to Christians in Nigeria on Easter.

In a statement issued by his media office, Fayemi stated that Easter is central to the Christian faith and urged Christians across the country to mark the occasion by embodying Christ-like values such as love, forgiveness, sacrifice, and empathy in their daily lives.

"The sacrifice of Jesus Christ teaches us invaluable lessons," he stated. "It symbolizes selflessness, forgiveness, resilience in the face of adversity, and the triumph of good over evil. Just as Jesus overcame his torment through faith, we can overcome our challenges and hardships with perseverance and unwavering conviction.

Fayemi also stated that Jesus Christ's death and resurrection exemplify selfless sacrifice for the greater good, reminding us of the importance of putting the needs of others ahead of our own, particularly during difficult times. 

"As we navigate our country's challenges, let us be inspired by this act of sacrificial love and reach out to those in need," he urged.

He continued, "Easter is a time of spiritual renewal and rebirth, giving us the opportunity to reflect on our lives and strive for personal growth. We, too, can experience physical and spiritual renewal, just as the resurrected Jesus was renewed and transformed. Let us use this opportunity to let go of the burdens of the past, embrace forgiveness and reconciliation, and embark on a journey to a better future."

Fayemi concluded by urging Nigerians to commit to being their brothers' and sisters' keepers and to show empathy to those in need.

 "This way, we can create a more just, peaceful, and united Nigeria for all," he stated.

FG to speed up work on Ekiti roads, Umahi assures Oyebanji during road inspection.

FG to speed up work on Ekiti roads, Umahi assures Oyebanji during road inspection. 

  

The Minister for Works, Engr Dave Umahi has commended Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji for his commitment to infrastructure upgrade in the state, even as he assured him of Federal Government’s plan to speed up the construction/ rehabilitation of roads in the state. 

The Minister gave the commendation on Saturday when he and the Ministry’s team, in company of the Governor undertook an inspection of some federal roads in the state. He said Governor Oyebanji has made sufficed case for the roads as part of his shared prosperity agenda of his administration.

The Minister who was received by Governor Oyebanji at the Akure Airport, inspected the Akure- Ikere -Ado dualised road, the Ado- ABUAD- Ijan road that was recently awarded and visited the ABUAD Industrial Park Road which is a model of concrete road construction. 

Speaking with journalists in Ado Ekiti shortly after the inspection, Engr Umahi said the purpose of the visit was to asses the level of work done on some on-going roads projects in the state particularly Ado, Ijan road and Ado – Ikere – Akure road and to also assess the state of federal roads in the state.

Acknowledging that the roads are major corridor to other parts of the country, the Minister assured that his ministry will ensure timely completion of the roads for the benefit of citizens and economic development of the state. 

Speaking about his assessment on the work done on the road, the Minister said he was not satisfied with the level of work done on the Akure- Ikere- Ado road, and revealed that the contractor has been invited for further instruction.

He assured the people of the state that the Federal Government remains committed to improving the road infrastructure across the country and will continue to intensify efforts to ensure that the projects are completed within stipulated timeline

“We came to look at some of the ongoing projects in Ekiti state, especially Ado- Ekiti to Ijan road. I don’t know it is a major corridor that evacuates a lot of commercial produce from Benin to Lokoja and the southern part of the country.

"The Governor is very desirous of this road and of course Chief Afe Babalola, we have looked at the roads and we are coming back , my team will give it all the desired attention, that’s what the Governor wants”. The Minister stated.

In his own remark, Governor Oyebanji, who appreciated the Minister for his visit, said the inspection was a testament to the fact that President Tinubu- led federal government was committed to development of sub-national.

Emphasizing the significance of accessible and well maintained roads in facilitating transportation, commerce, and the overall socio-economic progress of the state, the Governor expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government for its continue support in addressing the infrastructure challenges confronting the state. 

He assured that his administration would continue to collaborate with the Federal Government to ensure that federal roads are brought to satisfactory standard that will enhance the quality of life for the citizens.

“Well, this speaks to alignment of vision between the state and the Federal Government, like the Minister said, it is one government and we believe in the development of our people. This is in response to request from Ekiti people to come and look at the state of things here and it’s so exciting and I must commend His Excellency for this swift response, that shows the level of commitment of Asiwaju’s administration to development of sub-national”. The Governor said.

It is recall that the Minister’s visit was sequel to the two working visits by the Governor to the Ministry of Works in Abuja on account of federal roads in the state.

Oyebanji Felicitates Christians At Easter.

Oyebanji Felicitates Christians At Easter.

….Urges Nigerians To Be Hopeful.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has felicitated Christians in the State and Nigerians at large on witnessing another Easter celebration, with a charge not to forget the lesson of renewed hope which the resurrection of Jesus symbolizes.

Oyebanji, in a goodwill message signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Olayinka Oyebode, congratulated Christians on the successful completion of the 40-day Lenten period, urging Nigerians to remain hopeful that ‘there would be light at the end of the tunnel’.

The Governor urged Nigerians to emulate the virtues of love, self-denial and sacrifice which Jesus Christ exemplified and which made him lay down his life for the salvation of mankind.

While noting that Nigeria is destined to be a great and enviable nation, Governor Oyebanji urged Nigerians not only to pray but also make necessary sacrifices that would bring their prayers for a better nation to fruition.

While hailing the harmonious relationship between Christians and adherents of other religions in the state, the Governor urged them to continue to pray for God’s intervention in the affairs of the country, especially in bringing lasting solutions to the worrisome state of security. 

He urged them to remain prayerful and optimistic that as Jesus resurrected from the dead, the country will also bounce back and witness a greater level of progress, peace and prosperity. 

“The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ hold great significance for Christians. While we congratulate Christians in the state and worldwide for witnessing another Easter season, it is our prayer that the resurrection power will find expression in individual lives and in our dear state as we forge ahead with hope and faith for a better nation”, the statement added.

Group calls for Afuye's arrest over false accusations against Ekiti Governor.

Group calls for Afuye's arrest over false accusations against Ekiti Governor.

A Pressure group within the APC in Ekiti, Integrity Caucus (IC) has called on the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and Department of State Services (DSS) to as a matter of urgency arrest one Mr. Idowu Afuye for acts capable of destabilizing the state through his recent false allegations capable of inciting the public against the State Government.

A statement by the group's spokesman, Michael Falodun, made available to newsmen in Ado Ekiti today urged the security agencies to arrest Afuye for statements capable of creating public unrest and made to face the wrath of the law as obtainable in the 2015 cybercrimes act.

While noting that Afuye should have primarily not be taken seriously, Falodun said it becomes imperative to arrest him due to his chronic drinking habits which has led him into humongous debts to alcohol vendors across the state, warning that a drunkard with a loose tongue should not be left to continue telling his fables at beer parlour joints as not everyone can detect propaganda from fact.

Falodun called on the Public to disregard Afuye's claims which is borne out of vendetta because his demand for appointment from Governor Oyebanji has not been met and described his allegations as baseless and hallucinations of a drunken mind.

"For instance, his claim of Ekiti receiving ₦10bn monthly when Ekiti is not amongst the oil producing state is ridiculous, ditto his verbal diarrhea of using the Deputy Governor's security vote to offset salary arrears owed workers. As at 2015, Ekiti wage bill is ₦2.6bn. So how can the Deputy Governor's security vote be used to clear salary arrears of 2015? Is the Deputy Governor receiving ₦2.5bn as security vote? Is it not obvious those are hallucinations of a drunken mind?"

Afuye must understand that the fifth columnists pushing him will not be there with him in the cell when he fails to substantiate his claims with facts when prosecuted. The statement reads.

ASONIS Celebrates Tinubu At 72.

ASONIS Celebrates Tinubu At 72.

Hon. Taiwo Temitiope Olayinka, President-Elect of the Association of Southern Nigeria Students (Asonis), representing the South-South, South-East, and South-West regions, extended his heartfelt birthday wishes to His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR on his 72nd birthday.

In his message, Olayinka praised Tinubu's dedicated service to Nigeria, citing his exceptional leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to the nation's progress and development as sources of inspiration for generations of Nigerians, particularly the youth.

Recognizing Tinubu's visionary leadership, resilience, and dedication to democratic principles, Olayinka emphasized the former President's role as a beacon of hope for the country, highlighting the potential for a brighter future under his guidance.

The President-Elect commended Tinubu's significant contributions to Nigeria's socio-political landscape, applauding his efforts in promoting national unity and progress.

On this milestone birthday, Olayinka wished Tinubu joy, good health, and continued success in all endeavors, expressing hope that the former President's wisdom and guidance would lead Nigeria to greater heights of peace, unity, and prosperity.

Pledging unwavering support and solidarity, Olayinka assured Tinubu of the Association's commitment to his leadership and vision for Nigeria's progress and development. He concluded by affirming Tinubu's leadership as a source of inspiration for all Nigerians, with anticipation of a brighter future under his guidance.