EKSG Purchases 30 Vehicles from Local Motor Dealers to Tackle Insecurity.

EKSG Purchases 30 Vehicles from Local Motor Dealers to Tackle Insecurity.

......We will patronise local contractors, but won't take shoddy jobs, says Oyebanji.

.....Warns Amotekun operatives against rivaling formal security networks.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, on Tuesday took delivery of 30 Toyota Tacoma Pick up Vans supplied by motor dealers based in the state to strengthen the operations of the Western Nigeria Security Network codenamed "Amotekun Corps" and checkmate unscrupulous elements trying to make the state unsafe.

Oyebanji said the fact that the vehicles were supplied by members of Association of Motor Dealers of Nigeria(AMDON), Ekiti State chapter, further attested to how committed his administration is to fully comply with the State Local Contents Law enacted to strategically shore up patronage for local contractors and businesses. 

Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, while taking delivery of the vehicles in Ado Ekiti, promised to put security measures in full throttle to tackle those who are trying to cause investment flight in Ekiti by stoking the fire of insecurity. 

The Governor, who revealed that the vehicles will be deployed to strengthen the Amotekun Corps in the bid to curb kidnapping, banditry and other criminal elements, frowned at the recent killing of two prominent traditional rulers and abduction of pupils and teachers by suspected gunmen in the state. 

Oyebanji boasted that his government is well mobilized to wage a serious battle against those who wanted to thwart the peace and calmness being enjoyed in the state, describing security as a sinequanon to radical development of any subnational. 

"Part of our efforts to combat insecurity is the purchase of these vehicles which will be deployed for the use of the Amotekun Corps. Other working tools will still be provided for the corps as well as provision of logistics for the formal security agencies.

"I enjoin our people to assist our law enforcement agencies with useful information that can lead to the arrest of criminals or stemming their activities. 

"You are assured that such information will be treated with utmost confidentiality. In the alternative, such information can be passed through traditional rulers and community leaders who will treat them with despatch. 

"Expectedly, the Amotekun Corps who will use these vehicles are urged to redouble their efforts at ensuring security of lives and property. You shouldn't see yourselves as rivals to formal security agencies, instead, complement them for maintenance of law and order in our dear state".

Oyebanji promised that his administration will continually encourage local contractors and businessmen to thrive and develop, saying: "this is not the first or second time that Ekiti motor dealers have been patronised. Jobs that can be properly handled by local contractors won't be contracted out to outsiders.

"Our local contractors and businessmen should, therefore, take this opportunity offered by the state government . Nevertheless, as much as we are ready to patronise you, the government won't take shoddy or poorly executed jobs".

Applauding the governor for developing the state's human resources, AMDON National President, Prince Ajibola Adedoyin and Chairman, Ekiti chapter, Alhaji Ibrahim Bankole, described Oyebanji as a promise keeper, for complying with the Local Contents Bill he assented to upon assumption of office to ensure increased patronage for local businessmen. 

They promised to partner the government to make the relationship symbiotic and mutually beneficial, by ensuring that every contract awarded to members is done in compliance with specification to sustain the spirit being demonstrated by the governor. 

The businessmen appealed to Governor Oyebanji to donate a parcel of land to AMDON, for the construction of modern Automat to boost motor dealing business in Ekiti.

They said: "This is the first Governor that will be attending to our needs and patronising us this way. Governor Oyebanji has given our members the deserved recognition. We are assuring him, all the vehicles we are going to supply will be of good qualities".

EKSG to collaborate with FG on tourism development.

EKSG to collaborate with FG on tourism development. 

…..As Tourism Minister, hikers storm Ekiti for mountain hiking.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has expressed the readiness of his government to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Tourism to harness and develop untapped tourism potentials of the state and make the state a leading tourism destination in the country.

Governor Oyebanji revealed this on Monday during the 6th edition of Hike Ekiti Mountain safari which took place at Abanijorin Mountain and cave, in Iyin- Ekiti.

In attendance at the event were the Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Lola Ade-John, Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Speaker Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Adeoye Aribasoye; Director General of NIHOTOUR, Alhaji Nura Kangiwa, among others. 

The Governor said a properly harnessed tourism industry has the capacity to reshape the economy and improve the revenue base of the state, stressing that the state would leverage on tourism to attract investment, create jobs, boost the local economy and drive the shared prosperity agenda of his administration.

While expressing his gratitude to the Minister for the visit and her commitment to tourism development in the country, the Governor said her commitment speaks to the quality of people working with President Bola Ahmed Timubu to actualize the renewed hope agenda of the President.

Governor Oyebanji revealed that he has charged the state Bureau of Tourism Development to come up with the state’s tourism development master-plan in alignment with the Federal Ministry of Tourism vision to create an enabling environment for the people to prosper.

“I'm so excited that finally, we are giving life to this programme. It started six years ago and I know and am convinced that if we are going to drive our shared prosperity agenda in Ekiti state, tourism is a critical factor in ensuring that we provide job, create wealth and also emplaced a healthy and productive society.

“As a government, we have charged the bureau of tourism development to create a desirable tourism masterplan for the state, because that is what is going to drive our intervention in the tourism sector and we will further collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Tourism by ensuring that we align our own plan with their own so that together we can create an enabling environment for our people to prosper”. The Governor asserted.

Earlier in her remarks, the Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Lola Ade-John, who said the purpose of her visit was to encourage and promote the eco-tourism sector of the state, lauded Governor Oyebanji’s commitment to tourism development, especially the creation of a Bureau of tourism. 

She maintained that Governor Oyebanji’s determination to prioritize tourism aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s led federal government’s resolve to boost the nation’s economy through tourism development.

The Minister, who maintained that collaboration among government entities, tourism agencies, business and communities global is crucial for promoting sustainable tourism in the state, assured the Governor that her ministry would continue to support the state government to explore and tap into various beautiful tourist sites in the state in order to preserve the natural heritage for future generations.

She urged the participants to use the opportunity to contribute to the development of tourism in the state as she acknowledged that the future of Ekiti tourism looks promising . 

" Collaboration among government entities, tourism agencies, business and communities global is crucial for promoting sustainable tourism in Ekiti state and beyond and as affirmed by the Governor, he is very passionate about tourism and he intends on making tourism in the state as enviable and as an example to other state in Nigeria ". The Minister said.

Meanwhile, the Governor in company of the Minister and her team had earlier visited the palace of the Oluyin of Iyin Ekiti, Oba Adeniyi Ajakaye where they were informed about the various natural endowments in the community as well as the history behind the mountain "Okuta Aba ni Jorin" and solicited government's support in preserving the cultural heritage.

Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center Hosts Minister of Tourism Lola Ade-John to An Unforgettable Easter Experience.

Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center Hosts Minister of Tourism Lola Ade-John to An Unforgettable Easter Experience.

Minister of Tourism Lola Ade-John embarked on an official visit to Ekiti State, Nigeria, where she had the pleasure of exploring the renowned Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center. Upon her arrival, she was enveloped by the resort's warm hospitality and impeccable service, setting the tone for an unforgettable experience.

Led by the resort’s General Manager, Lanre Balogun, Mrs. Ade-John indulged in a myriad of experiences that showcased the resort's seamless blend of luxury and nature. From taking a leisurely stroll through its beautiful rooms, manicured gardens, and fully upgraded conference center, she also visited the unique and mysterious natural warm springs, which is the only spring in the world where cold and warm water flow together without mixing! 

She marveled at the breathtaking vistas and appreciated the meticulous attention to detail evident in every aspect of the resort. In her words - “I am very pleased at the beautiful transformation that has taken place in Ikogosi Warm Springs and Resort Center. Driving into Ikogosi, I was so impressed with the foliage. The bush itself is charming!”

The minister also praised the resort's commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, which provides the much-needed harmony between man and nature. She expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the resort's management, Glocient Hospitality Limited, for providing such an exceptional experience and extended her gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for his support in fostering an environment conducive to the resort's success.

During her stay, the Minister launched the second phase of her pet project – The EcoGenesis Incubator Series. This is a sustainable tourism entrepreneurship programme that targets residents of tourist host communities, including women, youths, and small cottage services that form parts of the destination's experiences for visitors.

The key highlight of this initiative is the training of tour operators and tour guides in Ekiti State, conducted in partnership with the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, NIHOTOUR and the Ekiti State Bureau for Tourism Development.

As Minister Ade-John bid farewell to Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, she carried with her not only cherished memories but also a newfound appreciation for the beauty and tranquility of Nigeria's natural landscape. Her visit served as a testament to the resort's unwavering dedication to providing guests with unparalleled experiences, ensuring that every visitor departs with lasting memories and a desire to return.

Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Ekiti State in Nigeria, Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center was voted the Best Holiday Resort in Nigeria in 2023 and stands as a beacon of luxury and tranquility. 

Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and the soothing sounds of nature, the resort offers a sanctuary for travelers seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Managed by Glocient Hospitality, Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort boasts an array of world-class amenities and services tailored to pamper guests and elevate their experience to unparalleled heights. From opulent accommodations to exquisite dining options and state-of-the-art conference facilities, every aspect of the resort is meticulously designed to cater to the discerning tastes of its visitors.

Local Council Boss, Hon Oluwatuyi Criticizes Afuye's Political Antics.

Local Council Boss, Hon Oluwatuyi Criticizes Afuye's Political Antics.

In a scathing letter addressed to Mr. Afuye, the Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area, Honorable Oluwatuyi Gbenga, expressed his surprise at the recent attention-seeking behavior exhibited by Afuye. The letter, penned in response to Afuye's public statements, criticized his actions and questioned his credibility as a political figure.

The chairman highlighted his skepticism towards Afuye from the outset, particularly noting the absence of political appointments despite his purported praise for BAO. Describing Afuye as a "paperweight politician," Hon Oluwatuyi accused him of attempting to garner relevance through hollow press releases on social media, rather than substantive contributions to governance.

The letter characterized Afuye as a "political butterfly," emphasizing his lack of substantial influence despite his self-perceived importance. The chairman referenced Afuye's selection as the deputy governorship candidate for the Action Democratic Party (ADP) by Mrs. Halle, the party's gubernatorial candidate, as a misguided attempt to elevate his political stature.

Contrary to Afuye's aspirations, the chairman asserted that BAO remains committed to effective governance and is undeterred by distractions from political opportunists like Afuye. Gbenga commended BAO's efforts to improve governance in the state and expressed confidence in his continued leadership.

Looking ahead to the 2026 elections, the chairman warned against the emergence of "notice-me politicians" like Afuye, whom he accused of seeking personal gain rather than genuine public service. He cautioned against falling prey to the manipulative tactics of such individuals and urged voters to prioritize candidates with a demonstrated commitment to the welfare of the state.

The letter concluded with a reaffirmation of support for BAO's administration and a call for unity among stakeholders to advance the state's development agenda.

Afuye, a paperweight politician in desperate search of cheap popularity.

Afuye, a paperweight politician in desperate search of cheap popularity.

Recently, some notable political WhatsApp groups in Ekiti have been abuzz with the personality and activities of the deputy governorship candidate of ADP in the 2022 governorship election, Mr. Idowu Sunday Afuye.

Afuye who has suddenly turned emergency town-crier and unsolicited auditor is daily dishing out demonic lies against the administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. To those who have discerning mind, Afuye's latest vituperation is borne out of the desire for recognition and patronage, a wish he's not going to get via the blackmail trip he recently embarked upon.

Afuye resigned from the state civil service prior to the 2022 governorship election and since then cannot be linked to a profession or source of income other than political scavenging.

It is a known fact that Afuye suffers acute Mytho-mania (a psychological problem in which people feel the need to lie) and if not properly checked may lead to psychosis.

This morning, Ekiti woke up to series of diabolical lies of Afuye as he shamelessly alleged that the state gets ₦10B monthly allocation from the federal government. He also alleged that the Deputy Governor's security vote was used to clear Civil Servants' arrears of salaries. Another of his lies is that the SSG to the State government, Alhaja Adubiaro has been sidelined in the BAO administration. What a concoction!

Ordinarily, one wouldn't have deemed it necessary to react to a man suffering from mythomania but for the fact that a lie when heard repeatedly over the time begin to wear the toga of truth.

Setting the record straight, it is a known fact that Ekiti monthly allocation since subsidy removal range between 4 and 6.5 Billion Naira. So, coming out to lie brazenly that Ekiti gets ₦10Billion is nothing but a deliberate attempt to distort the facts to gain cheap popularity.

To think that the Deputy Governor's Security vote which is around twenty million will offset the billions of Naira arrears of state civil servants is a joke taken too far. How is this even possible? A good liar should be able to work out his/her homework properly before dishing them out, but in the case of a shameless lair like Afuye, whose acute lying disorder is gradually turning to insanity, he won't care to tidy up his falsehoods before spreading them.

Afuye can be excused, because of his mental condition, he's a man without substance, his case is so pathetic that what he needs the most now is our collective prayers and proper psycho evaluation, and those sharing his puerile statements should know that they are not in anyway better than the man they are sharing his baseless accusation.

Instead of coming to WhatsApp groups asking for transparency and accountability, Afuye should make use of the Freedom of Information Act and apply to relevant agencies and MDAs for information and clarity on any of the government businesses. 

Governor Biodun Abayomi is focused and he's delivering on his 6-point agenda. He won't be distracted by an individual who is daily begging for money to survive. An individual whose debt in one popular beer parlor along Nova Junction remains a police issue.

29/03/2024

Aree Hon. Adebusuyi EBENEZER

Oyebanji preaches love, empathy, unity at Easter Sunday service.

Oyebanji preaches love, empathy, unity at Easter Sunday service.

  

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has called on citizens of the state to use the opportunity of the Easter season to show love to one another and embrace the spirit of empathy and unity in building a strong and more resilient society.

Governor Oyebanji, who made the call on Sunday during the Easter Sunday service at the First Baptist Church, Ikogosi Ekiti, said it was through love and sacrifice that Christians could uphold Christ’s legacy of service to humanity.

Emphasizing the significance of Easter beyond its religious connotations, the Governor urged the people to extend kindness and compassion to one another regardless of religious or cultural differences, which exemplifies the true spirit of Easter.

“Jesus died thousands of years ago, and we are still celebrating him today. The question we should ask ourselves is, do we love ourselves, do we love one another, do we love our communities, I'm just urging us that we should love one another, lets help the less privilege, once we help someone we are helping God, let us be selfless and let’s give to our community and continue to pray for the President of this country”. The Governor asserted

Governor Oyebanji also congratulated the regent of Ikogosi Ekti, Princess Omobola Adepoju, who had her 60th birthday thanksgiving during the service. He hailed the regent for various achievements witnessed in the community during her reign, describing her as a blessing to the community. 

The Governor maintained that the best birthday gift the kingmakers can give to the regent is to ensure the selection of a new king that would sustain the good work she’s doing in the community.

The Governor, who reiterated his stands that he will not interfere with the selection of the new monarch for the community, assured that his government would continue to respect traditional institutions in the state.

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