Tinubu, Oyebanji, Others Pay Respect As Late Ekiti APC Chairman, Omotosho, is Buried.

Tinubu, Oyebanji, Others Pay Respect As Late Ekiti APC Chairman, Omotosho, is Buried.

....Ekiti won't forget his good deeds, Oyebanji promises.

Eminent political leaders, including, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, former Governor Niyi Adebayo and others, on Friday, stormed Imesi Ekiti, Ayekire Local Government Area, as the remains of the former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Barrister Paul Omotosho were interred in his countryhome.

Omotosho, a former Commissioner in three different ministries in the state and one time APC State Secretary, died on March 5, during a brief illness. He was aged 60.

Omotosho's bodies were later buried at his residence along Ikare road in Imesi Ekiti, after a burial service held in his honour at Saint James' Anglican Church.

During the church service, President Tnubu, in his condolence message read by his Senior Special Assistant on National Assembly Matters (House of Representatives), Hon Ibrahim Olanrewaju, described Omotosho as a consummate politician, who served Ekiti and Nigeria zealously in his life time.

The President stated that the deceased demonstrated high sense of loyalty and industry to Ekiti cause and performed creditably well in the tasks he was saddled with. This, the President stated remained the most credible consolation for all Ekiti indigenes.

"As much as I agree that the death of Barrister Paul Omotosho was a painful exit, we have to be consoled by the fact he served well as a Chairman of our great party, Secretary and as a Commissioner. His footprints were there for everyone to see.

"May the good Lord grant his family and the good people of the state the fortitude to bear the loss", Tinubu prayed.

Governor Oyebanji in his remarks during the service said death is not the end of life, but a mere physical separation of soul from the body.

Oyebanji stated that the party and Omotoso's admirers will never forget him for being the first State Chairman to produce two governors back to back, describing the feat as wondrous and enigmatic in the political history of the progressives in Ekiti.

The Governor commended the deceased for giving his best to the state in every sphere he found himself, saying this is one of the the best ways to keep his memory alive.

As a mark of honour for the deceased, Oyebanji donated a sum of N5 million to the Church on behalf of the family, while also announcing a donation of one million naira each on behalf of Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; former Governor Kayode Fayemi and former Governor Niyi Adebayo to the church. 

"We will make sure that we immortalise him as a government .We won't forget him so soon, because he did well for our state and humanity. 

"I appeal to the family to be strong, only God can comfort you. The good deeds your father had done were enough to make you live a good life after him", Governor Oyebanji added. 

In his sermon, the Anglican Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Olusola Ajayi , appealed to Nigerian citizens to be circumspect of death that will come to both the rich and poor at the appointed time, by shunning corrupt practices and other devious actions that are common to humanity. 

The Bishop stated that the aggregate of the accounts of testimonies given by people about Omotosho buttressed the fact that he had lived a fulfilled and impactful life, saying this substantiated that humanity can still make good exploits within a short time of his sojourn on earth.

"We are strangers in this world and you have to determine whom you have you chosen to follow, either God or devil? Run away from sins and hold the pillar of Christ that can be your best refuge when you leave this world. 

"Paul Omotosho had given his best in his service to God and humanity, what is next for him is judgement. You need to ask yourselves, where am I going after living this world, heaven or hell? Think about this and make the right decision today for your days to be glorious on earth and in heaven".

Prominent political figures at the church service were : Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, ex-Governor Niyi Adebayo, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, House of Representatives members, Hons Sola Fatoba Kolawole Akinlayo and Femi Bamisile, Amb Eniola Ajayi, and Senator Dayo Adeyeye.

Others were: Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters, Hon Ibrahim Olanrewaju, Hon. Bimbo Daramola, serving and former Commissioners, serving and former Local Government Chairmen, Directors- General, APC State Chairmen from Lagos, Benue, Adamawa, politicians, among others.

Ekiti Governor Encourages Traditional Rulers to Support Agribusiness Initiative.

Ekiti Governor Encourages Traditional Rulers to Support Agribusiness Initiative.                     .....As Cavista Holdings Unveils Plan for Economic Growth.

Ekiti State governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has charged traditional rulers in the state to continue to support and cooperate with the activities of genuine private investors and government initiatives in the State so as to fast track economic development across their communities.

The charges were dropped while addressing some traditional rulers from the state during a one-day retreat organized by Cavista Holdings Limited at the Ikogosi Warm Springs and Conference Center. Governor Oyebanji, who was represented at the colorful event by his Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Honourable Olaiya Atibioke, underscored the traditional rulers' significance as the beacons of hope and development, particularly in fostering socio-economic growth, peace and catalysing prosperity notably in agribusiness across the state.

He urged the traditional rulers to use their exalted positions as community development agents to regularly communicate government policies and programmes to their people, mobilizing support for genuine investors, and act as mediators where required to ensure peaceful co-existence between businesses and communities.

He commended the Cavista Holdings for its commitment towards the advancement of using its subsidiary Holdings, Agbeyewa Farms, to launch an ambitious Cassava Revolution initiative, aimed at generating employment for over 10,000 Ekiti people.

In his address to the traditional rulers, Chairman of Cavista Holdings, Niyi John Olajide, emphasized the transformative potential of agricultural investment, affirming the company's enduring dedication to creating job opportunities in Ekiti State. "Our mission is simple, and it is based on three agenda, to create jobs, jobs and more jobs. Our reason for that is to transform lives and creates values for our people."

Speaking further, Olajide attributed his passion for economic development of Ekiti State just as he has done through his investments in other places across the world.

"To my own understanding, charity begins at home. Our fundamental role and capacity in driving a successful agribusiness in Ekiti State underscores our desire to transform Ekiti state through Agbeyewa Farms. We have shown that capacity in rebuilding the once moribund Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort into the best hospitality resort in Nigeria and one of the best in Africa today. We are here for the long haul. We are not going anywhere, he said.

Olajide said that Ekiti has the potential to be a hub for cassava production in Nigeria, ensuring economic empowerment and food security, saying through the cassava valuechain, Ekiti will become the home of the cassava revolution in Nigeria, providing millions of tonnes of cassava to feed millions of people, and empowering farmers in the state.

The Vice Chancellor, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Professor Abayomi Fasina, in his keynote address, elaborated on the vast agribusiness opportunities available to communities in Ekiti, emphasizing the role of traditional rulers in poverty alleviation and jobs creation.

In a resounding endorsement, traditional rulers pledged their support for the Agbeyewa's initiative, acknowledging Cavista Holdings' contributions to the state's development.

Speaking on their behalf, the Chairman of the Ekiti State traditional rulers, Oba Ayorinde Faboro (the Olojudo of Ido-Ekiti), hailed the event as a historic gathering of traditional rulers and pledged their unified backing for the plan's implementation.

"On behalf of the Obas that attended the conference, I appreciate the CAVISTA's Chairman, Mr. Niyi John Olajide, his father and the management of CAVISTA Holdings for hosting us at Ikogosi to such a sumptuous and comfortable gathering. It was the first of its kind. All the prayers we offered for you shall be accepted by the Almighty God..."

The one-day retreat witnessed the presence of dignitaries including the Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Stephen Aribasoye, Majority Leader Tolulope Ige, Hon. Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Ebenezer Boluwade, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utility, Prof Mobolaji Aluko, Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Peju Babafemi, Surveyor General of Ekiti State, John Faleto, Director General of Ekiti State Development and Investment Promotion Agency, Mrs. Lolade Olutola, and members of Ekiti E-11, led by Chief Kola Akosile, and a host of other eminent personalities, signaling broad-based support for the agribusiness initiative in Ekiti State with the good support of the state government.

Omotosho’s Lived a Fulfilled, Impactful Life, Says Oyebanji.

Omotosho’s Lived a Fulfilled, Impactful Life, Says Oyebanji.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, has described the life and time of the late Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Ekiti, Barrister Paul Omotosho as short, but replete with fulfilments and positive impact in all spheres.

Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, stated this at the Christian wake held at the late Omotosho’s residence in Imesi Ekiti on Thursday.

Omotosho, also a former Commissioner for Local Government Affairs and ex-Party’s Scribe, died during a brief illness on March 5, 2024. He was aged 60.

Speaking at the ceremony attended by top government functionaries, traditional and religious leaders, political bigwigs and residents of the town, Oyebanji hailed Omotosho for his honesty and firmness in his services to the state in various high positions he held during his lifetime.

In unequivocal terms, the Governor stated that history will continue to remember Omotosho glowingly for his unflagging belief in progressive politics going by the trajectory of his flourishing and captivating political career that helped in accelerating development pace in Ekiti.

“Death will come when it will come. There is nothing we can do about it. It is not how long, but how well . To us, his reign on earth might be short, but I think he finished strong and fulfilled with the way he lived his life and impacted on the people around him.

“He was a very humble man. A listening leader and one who was down to earth on all issues. He was a strong party man and reliable community leader. In fact, he will be sorely missed by all of us.

“But we should be comforted by the fact that he came, he saw and he conquered. We should pray that God should grant him eternal rest. We should also show support for his family, that is what we owe him at this trying time.

“To us as a government, we will do everything to keep him alive in our memories. The governor has promised not to abandon you and I know he will keep to that”, Oyebanji assured.

Also speaking about Omotosho’s glowing and exemplary virtues as a party man, the Acting APC State Chairman, Barr. Sola Elesin, disclosed that the deceased would be fondly remembered as a unifier and a lover of peace, which he said reflected with the way he instilled unity in Ekiti APC.

“If you are hearing about continuity, development in governance, that was Paul Omotoso for you. Few weeks ago, we came here to celebrate his freedom from the kidnappers before this suddenly happened.

“His plan was that the APC will be able to stabilise governance in Ekiti like Lagos, by winning the next elections, but God Knows better and he has plans for every human being. We must accept this painful situation as a will of God”.

In his exhortation entitled: “We Are Strangers and Sojourners on Earth”, a Cleric and Vicar in charge of Saint James’ Anglican Church, Imesi Ekiti, Ven. Olatoye Kehinde, described Omotoso’s death as very sad and devastating, but urged his admirers to take solace in the fact that he lived an exemplary life.

Showering eulogies on the deceased after quoting 2 Corinthians Chapter 5 Verse 10, the Cleric disclosed that Omotoso’s humility, accessibility and sense of hardwork will continue to linger in the hearts of the people for long, saying he had etched his name in the minds of the people as a parent, politician and community leader.

“We are all strangers and sojourners on earth. Whichever positions you are holding, use it to serve God and humanity, that was exactly what Barrister Paul Omotosho did. He remained an exemplar, let us fear God and serve humanity the way he did and your life and time after here shall be glorious.

“Whatever we do on that, we will account for all our deeds. If you use your position and influence to cheat your followers, you will surely account for it on the day of judgement”, the Cleric warned.

Dignitaries at the event were: Ekiti APC Acting Chairman, Hon. Sola Elesin, APC State Chairman in Lagos, Hon Cornelius Ojelabi, his Benue counterpart, Mr Augustine Agada, members of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Bamisile and Hon. Akinluyi Kolawole, and lawmaker representing Gbonyin State Constituency, Hon. Teju Okuyiga.

Others included: Commissioners for Rural Development, Hon. Femi Awe, his counterpart in Information Ministry, Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, Chairmen of Local Governments, among other top government functionaries and politicians, who came to pay last respect to the departed political juggernaut.

Ekiti Women Youths Challenged: 'A Garden, A Home Initiative.

Ekiti Women Youths Challenged: 'A Garden, A Home Initiative.

...As Ekiti First Lady's Vegetable Garden Inspires Food Security Drive.

By Olamide Akinwumi.

In a span of just 30 days, the garden cultivated by Her Excellency, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, the esteemed First Lady of Ekiti State, has blossomed into a vibrant source of fresh produce. This flourishing garden, inspired by the renowned "Every Home, a Garden Initiative" spearheaded by Nigerian First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has yielded tangible results, with vegetables planted in March now ready for harvest.

Rooted in the fertile soil of Ekiti, this initiative serves as a beacon of hope and practicality, showcasing the potential for self-sufficiency and resilience amidst economic challenges. Dr. Oyebanji's garden underscores the power of grassroots action and individual responsibility in bolstering food security within communities.

The abundant harvest not only provides sustenance for her family but also sets an example for households across Ekiti State to emulate. With accessible resources and favorable climatic conditions, Ekiti residents are urged to cultivate their own gardens, contributing to a collective effort to combat food insecurity and build resilience.

Recognizing the importance of these proactive measures, efforts are underway to safeguard against food shortages and alleviate economic hardships on Ekiti families. Emphasizing the intrinsic value of self-reliance, citizens are encouraged to embrace the opportunity to cultivate their own food, reducing dependency on external sources.

The success of Dr. Oyebanji's garden serves as a catalyst for action towards enhancing food security in Ekiti State. As the harvest season approaches, the benefits of homegrown produce become increasingly evident, reinforcing the belief that with determination and collective effort, every household can contribute to food security.

The Ekiti State Government has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote self-sufficiency and empower citizens to meet their nutritional needs. Through collaboration and community engagement, the vision of a resilient and food-secure Ekiti State continues to thrive.

#FoodSecurity #BAORESS #EkitiGrowsGreener

Ekiti State Government Champions Inclusive Governance.

Ekiti State Government Champions Inclusive Governance.

....Engages Non-Indigenous Communities for Sustainable Harmony and Development.

Ekiti State stands out among Nigerian states for its diverse population, including a significant number of non-indigenous residents. This demographic richness reflects the state's reputation for peace and harmony, fostered by the inclusive approach of Governor Biodun Oyebanji's administration.

In line with the commitment to sustaining this harmonious coexistence and addressing ethnic-related challenges, the Office of Community Communications had a strategic engagement with leadership of non-indigenous communities in Ekiti State earlier today.

Representatives from various ethnic groups, including Idoma, Ebira, Hausa, Tiv, Nupe/Tapa, Urhobo, Igbo and Igala communities, participated in the meeting.

Addressing the meeting, Director-General, Office of Community Communications, Mrs Mary Oso-Omotosho conveyed Governor Oyebanji's appreciation for their cooperation and support for the government.

Mrs. Omotosho emphasized the Governor's commitment to inclusivity, evident in the significant number of non-indigenous appointments made, which empower individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds and political affiliations.

However, she urged the community leaders to reciprocate the government's goodwill by encouraging their members to align with the administration's vision and initiatives.

Concerning recent spikes in prices of food commodities and other items, Mrs. Omotosho appealed to community leaders to discourage food hoarding and deliberate act of extortion, emphasizing governor Oyebanji's huge investment in agriculture and its impact on food security.

She proposed collaboration opportunities, such as bulk food purchases from local farmers, to mitigate shortages and stabilize prices.

On the security front, Mrs. Omotosho emphasized the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in crime prevention. She urged leaders to promote data gathering and security threats reporting mechanisms to enhance security measures.

In their separate responses, the traditional leaders of each ethnic group commended Governor Oyebanji’s efforts and leadership style in bringing every stakeholder on board for the betterment of the state. They emphasized the importance of equitable distribution of agricultural support and interventions noting that the Governor must be commended for his security initiative geared towards safeguarding farmlands and forests in Ekiti State.

They expressed their profound appreciation for the recognition accorded them and promised their unflinching support for the Oyebanji led administration.

Also present at the meeting: SSA Grassroots Communications (North), Hon. Moshood, SSA Grassroots Communications (South), Hon. Adelusi, SA Governor’s Office, Hon. Adetuase, SA Town Unions & Associations Matters, Hon. Andero, SA Ethnic Matters (Ebira), Hon. Nasir, SA Ethnic Matters (Igbo, Central), Hon. Amokachi, SA Ethnic Matters(Igbo, South), Hon. Onuchie, SA Ethnic Matters (Igbo, North), Prince Okafor and SA Ethnic Matters (Urhobo), Pastor Clement.

“You’ ll not walk alone”, Oyebanji assures late APC chairman’s family.

“You’ ll not walk alone”, Oyebanji assures late APC chairman’s family.

….as ex-Gov Fayemi, NASS members, APC leaders eulogize Omotosho at commendation service.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji on Wednesday led former Governor of the state, Dr Kayode Fayemi, National and State Assembly members, members of the State Executive Council, Party leaders and other prominent personalities to pay glowing tributes to the late APC Chairman, Barrister Paul Omotosho at a special commendation service organized by the state government in Ado-Ekiti. 

Omotosho, who died on March 5th, after a brief illness, was, until his death, Chairman of the All Progressive Congress, Ekiti State Chapter. 

“You will not walk alone. I shall stand by you. The Government and the party will stand by you”, Governor  Oyebanji assured the children and wives of the late Omotosho during his emotion - laden speech at the special tribute session held at Adetiloye Hall, Trade Fair Complex, Ado- Ekiti. 

The commendation service had in attendance former Governor Kayode Fayemi (who was represented by former Attorney General in the State, Mr Wale Fapounda, SAN; the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Adeoye Aribasoye, and three former deputy Governors- Prof Modupe Adelabu; Surv. Abiodun Aluko and Chief Wole Alabi as well as members of the Ekiti State Caucus in the National Assembly. 

Oyebanji described the late Chairman as a committed, loyal, and party leader whose selflessness and sacrifices contributed immensely to the growth and development of the party and the state at large.

The Governor maintained that the late omotosho was a true friend, a burden bearer, confidant and a devoted community leader, adding  that his demise has left a great vacuum within the party, the state  and the nation at large.

While assuring the family that his government will continue to support them and stand in the gap of their father, the Governor said he is consoled with the fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled life and left an indelible mark in the development of the state.

“To me personally, I have lost a true friend, I've lost a confidant, I've lost a brother, a burden bearer and a soul mate. The truth of the matter is not how far but how well, Mr. Continuity left at his own time, I believe strongly that it was his own time to go. We don’t like it, and it is painful because death did not give us a chance to even try to save him. 

“I know we are not happy about this and it is a trying moment for us as a party, as a state and as a government, but one thing I know is there is God in heaven who sees the affairs of men. To the children, to the family, as long as i am on this seat as the Governor of this state, you will not walk alone. That’s the assurance I am going to give you”. The Governor asserted.

In his on tribute, the immediate past Governor of the state, Dr. Fayemi, whose tribute was read by Barrister Wale Fapounda, described the late Omotosho as a dedicated leader, a unifier, and a pillar of the party in the state.

Dr Fayemi explained that the deceased was a tireless leader and a steadfast supporter of the party’s principle who ensured that under his watch the party achieved significant victories in recent elections and gained the trust of Ekiti people.

While calling on the APC members in the state to remain resolute in making the deceased proud by carrying on with his legacies of  integrity, the former Governor maintained that Omotosho’s contributions and sacrifices for the party will never be forgotten.

 

Other speakers at the evening of tributes include Mrs. Fola Richie, who spoke on behalf of the state executive council members (2010 – 2014), where the late Omotosho served as as State Commissioner; Chief Bayo Idowu, on behalf of Afenifere; Dr Dele Ebunola, who spoke on behalf of Social Democratic Party (SDP); Prof Mobolaji Aluko, on behalf of the state executive council; Hon Sola Elesin, on behalf of APC, Ekiti State chapter; Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, on behalf the State House of Assembly, and Senator Yemi Adaramodu, who spoke on behalf of National Assembly members. 

Others were Chief Jide Awe, who spoke on behalf of APC elders; Chief (Mrs) Ronke Okusanya, on behalf of Women in Politics; and Mr Ojo Oluwasegun Samuel, who spoke on behalf of local government chairmen. 

They all eulogized the late Omotosho as a man of integrity and a truly honest and hard working politician and public servant, who was selfless and result- oriented.

A pall of silence descended on the Adetiloye Hall, venue of the event during the viewing of  a documentary detailing the life and times of the late Omotosho was shown the audience. Many wept profusely after the documentary which preceded a short sermon and prayer of the family of the deceased. 

Barrister Paul Omotosho who died on March 5th would be buried in his home town, Imesi Ekiti on Friday.

Agbeyewa Farms Launches Community Development Foundation to Empower Ekiti State.

Agbeyewa Farms Launches Community Development Foundation to Empower Ekiti State.

Agbeyewa Farms, a subsidiary of Cavista Holdings, has formally launched the Agbeyewa Farms Community Development Foundation (AFCDF), aimed at investing in various community development initiatives to enhance the quality of life of citizens of Ekiti State. 

The foundation's launch took place during the recent retreat for some traditional rulers in Ekiti, on the pivotal roles of traditional institutions and private investment promotions in Ekiti State. Distinguished guests at the event were amongst revered traditional rulers from Ekiti and Osun States. The Governor of Ekiti State, represented by the Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Hon. Ojo Atibioke was the special guest of honor at the event. The Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Hon. Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Ebenezer Boluwade, Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utility, Prof Mobolaji Aluko, were amongst the distinguished guests.

Others are the Ekiti State Commissioner for Women Affairs and former Head of Service, Mrs Peju Babafemi, Director General, Ekiti State Development and Investment Promotion Agency, Mrs. Lolade Olutola, Members of Ekiti E-11, led by Chief Kola Akosile, Chief Biodun Akin- Fasae, Special Assistant to Ekiti State Governor on Special Agro-business Processing Zones, Hon. Kehinde Ajayi, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on OTSD, Tunji Aribasoye, and other notable attendees.

The foundation is to be headed by Alhaji Dauda Lawal, an astute community development expert. 

In his address, while inaugurating the board of the foundation, the Executive Director of Cavista Holdings, Mr. Dele Odufuye said the foundation's initiative was built on a steadfast commitment to uplifting communities, with a focus on five key delivery areas: Education, Economic Empowerment, Health, Sports, and Environmental Sustainability. 

By addressing these vital sectors, the foundation aims to foster holistic development and sustainable progress within the region.

Mr. Odufuye emphasized the foundation's alignment with Cavista's overarching mission to create enduring value for all stakeholders and transform lives and communities. He highlighted the pivotal role of Agbeyewa Farms in funding the foundation's initiatives, underscoring the company's dedication and commitment to corporate social responsibility and community welfare.

"The launch of the Agbeyewa Farms Community Development Foundation marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to serving and empowering the people of Ekiti State. Through strategic investments in education, healthcare, sports, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment, we aim to catalyze positive change and unlock the full potential of our communities."

Mr. Odufuye disclosed that the Foundation had already successfully executed several initiatives over the last 2 years, with the most recent being the organization of a medical outreach, the sponsorship of the Agbeyewa football Cup competition for Ekiti State secondary schools, as well as the donation of food palliatives during the last Christmas, Easter and Sallah holidays.   

Odufuye emphasized the foundation would leverage on the capacity and experience of the new board members trusting that its composition would heralds a new era of collaborative efforts and impactful initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive growth and prosperity in Ekiti State. 

With a focus on sustainability and social impact, Agbeyewa Farms remains steadfast in its mission to create a brighter future for generations to come.