EKSG Wades into Eyemote Secondary School/ Asalu Family Land Encroachment Dispute.

EKSG Wades into Eyemote Secondary School/ Asalu Family Land Encroachment Dispute.

In a bid to broker truce in the brewing land dispute between the Eyemote Comprehensive High School, Iyin Ekiti and Asalu family, the Ekiti State Government, has directed the Boundary Technical Committee to visit the town for proper demarcation of the disputed land.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, gave the directive, while interfacing with some critical stakeholders in Ado Ekiti, on Tuesday, through a statement signed by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje. 

In resolving the matter, the Deputy Governor directed the school management to stop the fencing project being undertaken, pending the time the committee will visit the encumbered area for proper demarcation. 

In the same fashion, Mrs Afuye, told the institution not to exceed the area earlier released for the building of the school by Asalu family in 1967, to avert intra- communal violence that could trigger bloodshed or insurrection in Iyin Ekiti. 

She advised the feuding parties to have a "give and take mindset" in the resolution of the matter, saying win-win situation for all parties has been a potent strategy being adopted by government to resolve land disputes.

Speaking during the parley, the Oluyin of Iyin Ekiti, Oba Adeniyi Ajakaye, appreciated the Governor Biodun Oyebanji-led government for intervening in the matter that is gradually gathering tension. 

Oba Ajakaye, represented by Odofiyin of Iyin Ekiti, High Chief Ayodeji Esan, said the community places prime value on the protection of lives and property, and that the issue at hand shouldn't be allowed to degenerate to violent action. 

The monarch promised that his council will cooperate with the boundary committee to bring a lasting solution to the land encroachment dispute. 

Expressing their grievances over alleged encroachment into their lands, representative of Asalu family, Prof. Ayo Akinlua, lamented how the family's lands were being forcibly grabbed, calling on government to deploy all its powers to ensure that justice is done in the matter. 

Prof Akinlua claimed that the institution had exceeded the area allotted to it at inception in 1967, describing this as a great injustice and abridgement of the rights of Asalu family. 

To complement the peace-building policy of Oyebanji -led government, the Chairman of Araromi Local Council Development Area, Chief Adewole Alade, said the council had deployed security to the institution to ward off violence and loss of life. 

The council boss added that he decided to take such action when he noticed that some land sellers were infiltrating the school compound and importing those he described as "thugs" to the area.

Ekiti Deputy Gov Felicitates ex-First Lady, Erelu Bisi Fayemi at 61.

Ekiti Deputy Gov Felicitates ex-First Lady, Erelu Bisi Fayemi at 61.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has congratulated the former First Lady of Ekiti State and world acclaimed gender activist, Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, on her 61st birthday.

Mrs Afuye described the ex-First Lady as an amazon, whose career trajectory and socio-political sojourn typify honour, industry, honesty,  sacrifice and uplift of humanity for prosperity and progress  in all spheres. 

The Deputy Governor said these in a statement, on Thursday, felicitating Erelu Bisi Fayemi on her birthday. 

The Deputy Governor stated that Mrs Fayemi's giant leaps and surfeit of contributions in projection of  feminism and elevation of women in politics and socio-economy would remain evergreen in the hearts of the populace.  

Mrs Afuye described the over six decades of Mrs Fayemi's existence as positively rewarding, saying her  strides to rid the global community of endemic pangs of gender inequality, had garnered recognition and respect. 

She stated that the Ekiti populace would eternally be grateful to Mrs Fayemi for setting a pace and leading the struggle against female genital mutilation, a longstanding practice that endangered many lives and incapacitated their productive capacities.

She added that Mrs Fayemi also played landmark roles in the virulent wars against child trafficking, enslavement and the dismantling of all forms of cultural encumbrances inhibiting women from attaining their desirable heights in the society.

Speaking about Mrs Fayemi's intellectual and political prowess, Mrs Afuye stated that the former First Lady, had etched her name in gold as a thorough-bred academic and pro-democracy activist, who fought relentlessly for the actualisation of populist governance in Nigeria.

"I congratulate Her Excellency, Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi on her 61st birthday today, June 11, 2024. I am elated because your entire life stands for progress and prosperity for all, which has made you a relish of many. 

"Ekiti people, particularly the womenfolk  won't forget your imprints on the sand of time as an unrepentant proponent of a society devoid of gender  inequality. 

"As Ekiti First Lady, you gave hope to the hopeless and supported many to rise to the pinnacle of their careers. Your exploits are so rich  that generations coming behind us won't forget how you  stood for the less privileged  and promoted them. 

"The Gender Based Violence prohibition Law and Equal Opportunities Law that broke the shackles for the  promotion of women in politics and administration in Ekiti were enacted by government because of your relentless efforts.

"I pray that the good Lord shall continue to stand by you, grant you good health and strong mental capacity to be able to contribute more to humanity", Mrs Afuye prayed.

Hon. Ojuawo Felicitates with Erelu Bisi Fayemi on her Birthday.

Hon. Ojuawo Felicitates with Erelu Bisi Fayemi on her Birthday.

Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, Member of the House of Representatives representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, has joined the good people of Ekiti State in congratulating our former First Lady, Her Excellency Erelu Bisi Fayemi, on her 61st birthday.

In his congratulatory message, Ojuawo said, "Your birthday is a significant day for us in Ekiti, as we wish you many more years of good health and a sound mind. You are a woman of substance and virtue. Personally, I am delighted to celebrate you, especially for the indelible mark you have made for those coming behind you. Your advocacy against girl child abuse and protection of the rights of our women have made our state a safe place for our women to rise and fulfill their dreams. As an advocate for social change and philanthropist, I admire your love for our people, your empathetic spirit, and your solutions to every challenge that draws your attention. It is my prayer that God will grant you longevity to achieve even more in the service of humanity."

Hon. Ojuawo also seized the opportunity to thank the Feminist Activist for her investments in the African Women's Leadership Institute and the African Women's Development Fund. Erelu Bisi Fayemi is the founder of Above Whispers Media Foundation and writes a weekly column called "Loud Whispers."

Happy Birthday, Your Excellency!

 OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

Our First Lady A Mother Indeed, Say Ekiti Delegates To Tinubu’s First Year Event.

Our First Lady A Mother Indeed, Say Ekiti Delegates To Tinubu’s First Year Event.

...Appreciate Dr Oyebanji's Milk of Human Kindness.

Ekiti State delegates to Nigerian youth interactive session with Nigeria's First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu in Abuja has commended the wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, for her kind gestures to them which made their stay in the nation's capital a memorable one.

The youth interactive session with the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was one of the activities held to mark the first anniversary in office of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Administration which took place at the State House Banquet Hall.

The youth delegates on Monday paid a visit to Dr. Oyebanji in her office to show their gratitude to the Ekiti First Lady whom they commended for ensuring that they enjoyed the best of comfort in Abuja describing her as a "mother indeed." 

The youth said extending her milk of human kindness to them during the national assignment in Abuja showed that Dr. Oyebanji is a compassionate woman which has resonated in her humanitarian gestures to vulnerable segment of the population.

They hailed the Ekiti First Lady "for pampering them like babies," looking after their feeding, accommodation and financial support which made them comfortable.

Speaking on behalf of the delegates, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Students Engagement, Miss Oreoluwa Adetiba, said the attitude of Dr. Oyebanji before, during and after the engagement with Senator Tinubu "was the best anyone could get from a caring mother."

Miss Adetiba said: "She pampered us like babies and even called us after feeding, accommodation and pocket money, mummy still called us countless times to see to our welfare, how best can we describe you than to say you are indeed abiyamo tooto."

The group thanked Dr. Oyebanji for counting them worthy amongst Ekiti youths to represent the state and pledged their loyalty to the Oyebanji administration as they promised to always represent Ekiti well whenever the need arises.

Responding, the First Lady commended the youth for deeming it fit to appreciate her gesture of support to them at the national assignment.

Dr. Oyebanji described their comportment at the Abuja event as impressive and commendable adding that as the mother of the state, she was obliged to look after them as "babies."

She urged them to keep supporting the Biodun Oyebanji Administration with the promise that the government would do more for the youth segment of the population whom she described as the strength of the state and nation.

Rainstorm: Oyebanji Laments Destruction of Buildings at Itapaji, Encourages Tree Planting

Rainstorm: Oyebanji Laments Destruction of Buildings at Itapaji, Encourages Tree Planting.

The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has appealed to residents of the State to embrace tree planting around residential buildings to prevent alarming rate of destruction of buildings by rainstorm.

Oyebanji said recurrent decimal of building wreckage being witnessed in some communities could have been averted, if residents embraced tree planting that could break destructive wind during torrential downpour.

The Governor said these in Itapaji Ekiti, Ikole Local Government Area on Monday, while inspecting some buildings that were destroyed by tornado in the town last weekend.

During the destructive rainfall, no fewer than 10 buildings, including a public institution, were blown off, with over 50 rendered homeless .

During the on-the- spot appraisal of the level of havoc wreaked in the town, Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, regretted the alarming rate of destruction of buildings by rainstorm in Ekiti in recent time.

To arrest such sordid scenarios, the governor, said there was expediency of landlords ensuring adequate maintenance of their structures to either forestall or reduce such devastating occurrence.

Sympathising with the victims, Oyebanji pledged the support of the State Government for those who had been rendered homeless as a result of the highly distraught rainstorm incidence.

“This is one occurrence that was heart-rending, very devastating. I have never seen any rainstorm of this extent. Not long ago, we went to inspect some buildings that were destroyed at Ijelu and Omu Ekiti in Oye Local Government. The reoccurrence of this kind of incidence was becoming worrisome to us as a government .

“We thank God that nobody died, but losing property under this avoidable situation is painful. We want our people to embrace tree planting around their houses. Trees are wind breakers that can help us protect our structures against damage.

“Besides tree planting, we should endeavour to carry out regular turn around maintenance on our buildings. This is very essential to prevent us losing our buildings to rainstorm”, Oyebanji stated.

The Governor personally visited the home of a 120-year old victim, Chief Ajayi Fabunmi to sympathise with her over the wreckage on her building.

Conducting the governor and other officials round the wreckage, the Olu of Itapaji, Oba Abdulazees Adebanjo, applauded the state governor for showing compassion to the victims, particularly the expeditious way with which he visited the community. .

Oba Adebanjo, represented by Oluketu of Itapaji, Chief Olaoye Olusesan, pleaded with government to speedily grant the requests of the victims and give support that could bail them out their current precarious situation.

Speaking about other facilities that could add modernity to the agrarian community, the monarch appealed to government to restore electricity to the community that had been in perpetual darkness for about 20 years.

“The last time we had electricity supply here in Itapaji was 2008. This had affected our local economy. Some of those who were into private businesses had either folded up or left the town. We need help in this regard”, the monarch said.

On the governor’s entourage were: The Chairman of Ikole Local Government, Hon Bayo Omojola , his counterpart in Ajoni LCDA, Prince Michael Ogungbemi, Director General, Office of Community Engagement, Mrs Mary Oso- Omotoso, General Manager, Ekiti State Emergency Management Agency, Mr. Kayode Asaolu, among others.

First Anniversary: Oyebanji Lauds Seventh Assembly's Contributions To Good Governance In Ekiti.

First Anniversary: Oyebanji Lauds Seventh Assembly's Contributions To Good Governance In Ekiti.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has lauded the contributions of the Seventh Ekiti State House of Assembly to the good governance and implementation of the Shared Prosperity Agenda of his administration.

The Governor made the remarks on Sunday at a Special Thanksgiving Service to mark the First Anniversary in office of the Seventh Ekiti State House of Assembly under the leadership of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye.

The Governor who was represented by the First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, described the members of the Seventh Assembly as rare gifts to Ekiti State who are giving dependable support to his administration. 

The thanksgiving which was held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Wonderful Mega Area, New Iyin Road, Ado Ekiti was attended by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro and some members of the State Executive Council; Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Chief Samuel Bejide and other political office holders.

Governor Oyebanji who scored Seventh Assembly high in prioritizing the welfare of the people of the state also showered plaudits on the present crop of legislators for putting Ekiti first in their legislative agenda and complementing the smooth running of governance.

He said: "This occasion is not only a celebration of your accomplishments but also a moment to reflect on the journey we have embarked upon together, to express our heartfelt gratitude, and to seek divine guidance for the future.

"In the past year, the Seventh Assembly has exhibited remarkable dedication to the principles of democracy, transparency, and service to the people of Ekiti State. 

"Your steadfast commitment to legislative excellence and good governance has been truly inspiring. The laws you have deliberated and enacted form the bedrock of a prosperous future for our beloved state.

"Today, as we give thanks, we are reminded of the power of unity, faith, and perseverance. These virtues have enabled us to overcome challenges and achieve significant milestones. I commend each member of this assembly for your devotion to your duties and for placing the needs of our citizens at the forefront of your legislative agenda."

Governor Biodun Oyebanji also called on the legislators to uphold the principles of democracy which are embedded in the power of love, dedication, commitment and transparency. This he said would always single out Ekiti State for good among the comity of states.

He appealed for more cooperation from the members of the 7th assembly as he described them as most committed and dedicated members Ekiti State House of Assembly ever produced in Ekiti State.

Earlier in his sermon, the Regional Pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Region 20, Pastor Tunde Abdulahi, dwelt on the importance of thanksgiving and emphasized the need to give thanks as he cited the story of the ten lepers in the Bible.

In his thank you message, the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, commended the Governor for allowing independence of the three arms of government and said it has allowed mutual understanding and and continuous development in Ekiti State.

The legislators who were resplendent in their colourful Adire Ekiti attires were also joined by their family members and the Assembly staff at the thanksgiving service.

Minister of State for Youth Development, Olawande Facilitates NITDA/NYSC Partnership to Train 30 Million in Digital Skills.

Minister of State for Youth Development, Olawande Facilitates NITDA/NYSC Partnership to Train 30 Million in Digital Skills.

The Honourable Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande led a delegation consisting of the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi and his management team to the office of the NYSC Director General, Brig. Gen. Y.D. Ahmed to conclude on a partnership talk he initiated between the two agencies.

The meeting is aimed at harnessing a strategic partnership between the National Information Technology Development Agency and NYSC to foster digital literacy and cultivate talent through the Digital Literacy for All (DL4ALL) initiative.

Through the partnership, millions of Nigerian youth would receive training in digital skills that will help them compete for employment, access vital digital services, engage in the digital economy, and generally improve their employability.

During the visit, NYSC Director-General, Brig Gen Y.D. Ahmed pledged to establish a Community Development Service (CDS) group to support this initiative which will go a long way to impact digital literacy and the development of a tech talent pool to transform the economy and produce long-term, inclusive growth.

In his remarks, the Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande reiterated the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu towards ensuring a conducive atmosphere for Nigerian youth to succeed, noting that the partnership with NITDA to train corp members is one effort that will improve the skill set of Nigerian youth and consequently guarantee a better future for all.

A statement by NITDA appreciates the efforts of Hon. Ayodele Olawande, the state minister for Youth Development, for facilitating the partnership.