How Oyebanji's Inclusive Policy Is Driving Peace and Development in Ekiti.

How Oyebanji's Inclusive Policy Is Driving Peace and Development in Ekiti.

By Oba Matthew.

His Excellency Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji 
Executive Governor of Ekiti State. 

Since his assumption of office as the Chief Executive of EkitiState, His Excellency Biodun Oyebanji has demonstrated uncommon commitment to good governance and development of the State through his unique policy of inclusion, which provides a veritable platform for all stakeholders to make input into the development efforts. 

Immediately he was sworn in, Governor Oyebanji left no one in doubt of his pathway to development as he embarked on fence mending moves, which saw him reaching out to critical stakeholders and opposition figures in the state. 

This deft political move rattled political pundits, who felt his romance with the opposition is “uncalled for, unnecessary and unwarranted” as there was no justification for such exercise. As a matter of fact, Ekiti politics is adversarial in nature. But BAO, as he is fondly called, appears eager to change the narratives by reaching out to all and inviting them to be part of the development process. 

Oyebanji was undeterred as he continued to meet all former governors of the state – including those that served on the platforms of opposition parties. He also reached out to the elites as well as elder statesmen and women, sharing his vision and mission with them, and getting their buying in. 

He made it entirely clear that he embarked upon the meeting in order to sell his agenda to them and seek their opinions on several state matters. Their cooperation, which was freely given, has been responsible largely to the growth and development as well as the peaceful environment in the state. 

Whereas many skeptics were initially opposed to the Governor’s inclusive approach to governance, the attendant peaceful coexistence of Ekiti people, coupled with the progress recorded in critical sectors within the first few months of the BAO administration, has made them change their minds. The move has been yielding positive results as his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), is now the dominant political party in the state. 

Elder statesmen like Chief Afe Babalola (SAN), a lawyer of international repute and owner of Afe Babalola University; Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), a former NBA President; Chief Deji Fasuan, Chairman Committee for the Creation of Ekiti State; and other prominent leaders have at different fora lauded Oyebanji’s inclusive initiative and for rallying all stakeholders for the development of the state. To these fathers of the State, never had the state been so united as it does under Governor Oyebanji and they are happy to be living witnesses to the new and exciting development which also comes with growth and development.  

Several Ekiti sons and daughters have also applauded Mr Governor for this unique style of governance as his strategic partnership with stakeholders, national and state assembly members, federal agencies, international development agencies, are yielding dividends. 

Even those who contested against him at the primary election of the party then have all indicated that they will not contest his re-election with him. This position was orchestrated by the Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, who declared publicly at a recent event that he would not contest the next governorship election in the state, and would instead lead the re- election campaign of Governor BAO. Former Governor Segun Oni who marked his 70th birthday recently also declared that he was yet to see any candidate that could match BAO’s credentials in the coming election, even as he hailed the Governor for his unique Omoluabi politics. 

The development has virtually put all major opposition parties at the crossroads as Oyebanji is seen as delivering on his campaign promises as well as uniting the people for a progressive Ekiti, with dividends of good governance pouring in torrents via infrastructure development, human capital development, industrialization and agribusiness.

Oba, is Special Assistant to Ekiti State Governor,

on Digital Media.

Shun Violence, Division, Ekiti Govt Warns Communities Demanding Autonomy.

Shun Violence, Division, Ekiti Govt Warns Communities Demanding Autonomy.

The Ekiti State government, has warned communities pursuing autonomy to eschew violence and stoking of ember of division that could threaten and destabilise the existing royalty.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, gave the warning in Ado Ekiti, on Tuesday, while presiding over a chieftaincy brawl brewing in Araromi Ugbesi Ekiti, Ekiti East Local Government Area of the state. 

The intervention was sequel to a petition written by Okete family of Araromi Ugbesi, calling for its enlistment as a Ruling House and as well agitating for the removal of Owa Eleshi of Araromi Ugbesi Ekiti, Oba Lawrence Adeyeye over alleged harassment and intimidation of his people.

Addressing the community, Mrs Afuye, in a statement by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, warned that, henceforth, any community or chiefdom pursuing autonomy must do that with civility and peace, saying such demand won't be granted under the atmosphere of crisis. 

For fence-mending, Mrs Afuye directed all the Chiefs in Okete family to reunite with the monarch and start attending community meeting to restore peace, saying government can't approve autonomy under the atmosphere of peace and disunity.

"With you changing your name from Okete to Obalende, you have pulled out of Araromi Ugbesi and it will be difficult for you to get the declaration changed in your favour.

You can't be given autonomy when you are causing crisis.

" I want you to sustain the rotation of Elenta chieftaincy within Okete family for peace to reign. Go back and reunite with your traditional ruler, so that you can be one to pursue whatever agenda you have peacefully".

Speaking to the petition, the representative of the Okete family, Mr. Dapo Adebayo, accused the monarch of charging the people of the family to court on trump- up charges, while also using his connection to discipline their members unjustly. 

"It has got to a stage that Kabiyesi no longer allow us to gather to celebrate marriages, burial of aged ones, launching for community development without permission. We are being treated like slaves in our own land.

"Using trump up charges, Kabiyesi had succeeded in sending our people to jail. All these must stop and we need the intervention of government to put an end to this maltreatment".

For peace to reign, Adebayo requested the monarch to accede to the request to change the family's name from Okete to Obalende and replace the current Elenta chieftaincy holder, Chief Meshack Alonge, with their preferred candidate. 

Debunking the accusations in his defence, Oba Adeyeye, accused the family of polarising the community, by stoking the fire of acrimony over the installation of one Chief Alonge as the Elenta of Ugbesi community.

Oba Adeyeye, said the Okete family had been pushing for autonomy at different times before Justices Silas Oyewole and Jide Aldejana Panels of Inquiry, but failed owing to the fact they had no history to support their case. 

"I am just pleading with them to allow peace to reign. Governor Oyebanji stands for peace. Let it be known that the family doesn't have eligibility to the royal stool, they are not part of the ruling house. They are using this to foment trouble.

"I didn't send any of them to jail. It was the police that charged them to court and they were found guilty and sentenced accordingly. It wasn't me that charged them to court as being alleged", the monarch clarified.

Governor Oyebanji Reaffirms Commitment to Citizens' Economic Empowerment at Artisans Training Closing Ceremony.

Governor Oyebanji Reaffirms Commitment to Citizens' Economic Empowerment at Artisans Training Closing Ceremony.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the economic empowerment and development of citizens. Speaking at the closing ceremony of a four-week Artisans Up-Skilling Training Program for selected Master Crafts Persons (MCPs), the governor emphasized the critical importance of promoting entrepreneurship and skills development to enhance citizens' competitiveness.

The training, organized by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Board for Technical and Vocational Education, was held at the Government Technical Colleges in Ado-Ekiti and Ikole-Ekiti.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro, Governor Oyebanji highlighted the vital role artisans play in driving small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) and the broader economic growth of the state.

"Artisans are the backbone of SMEs in our society. Their skills, creativity, and hard work are pivotal to the growth of both local communities and larger industries," he said.

The governor explained that the training program aimed not only to enhance artisans' technical skills but also to equip them with modern tools and knowledge to thrive in the 21st-century economy. "We recognize that Ekiti State's prosperity rests significantly on the success of our artisans and private sector players, who are the engines of job creation and economic stability," he added.

Governor Oyebanji praised the artisans for their commitment during the training and urged them to embrace innovation and expand their businesses. He assured the government’s ongoing support through policy frameworks and infrastructure development. "Together, we will build a prosperous Ekiti State where the dignity of labor is celebrated, and success is shared by all," he concluded.

In her opening remarks, the State Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment, and Cooperatives, Mrs. Omotayo Adeola, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Dele Ogunsemoyin, highlighted that the initiative aimed to bolster the craftsmanship and entrepreneurship of artisans, who are the backbone of the State's informal economy.

"Today marks the conclusion of a rewarding training program designed to empower our artisans and private sector with cutting-edge skills and modern techniques, ensuring their services meet both local and international standards," she said.

Mrs. Adeola encouraged participants to stay proactive and innovative as they transition into the next phase of their professional journeys, adding that the initiative is crucial for the State's economic growth and the upliftment of its people.

The Commissioner for Information, Mr. Taiwo Olatunbosun, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Olusesan Alabi, praised the governor for initiating the timely training. He noted that it had broadened participants' knowledge, particularly in customer relations. "Governor Oyebanji has not only provided us with fish but also taught us how to fish," Olatunbosun remarked.

Commissioner for Education, Dr. Adebimpe Aderiye, mni, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Mike Omolayo, stressed that education is incomplete without trade skills. He encouraged artisans to uphold good character and integrity, which he said were essential to their success.

In his goodwill message, Dr. Joel Ekundayo commended Governor Oyebanji for providing state-of-the-art equipment for the training. He urged participants to make the most of the knowledge and resources gained for the benefit of their futures and families.

Chairman of Ekiti Artisans, Mr. Ebenezer, expressed gratitude for the government’s support but requested further assistance in providing modern tools to enhance craftsmanship. Similarly, Mr. Sola Jegede, Chairman of the Welding Association and a participant in the Vehicle Body Builder Section (VBBS), thanked Governor Oyebanji for the training opportunity and called for additional equipment to fully implement the skills acquired.

The event marks a significant milestone in Ekiti State’s efforts to boost artisans' skills and foster sustainable economic growth through the empowerment of its citizens.

Ekiti Muslims Back Oyebanji's Second Term Bid.

Ekiti Muslims Back Oyebanji's Second Term Bid.

.....As gov pledges religious harmony.

The Muslim Community in Ekiti State, has declared support for the second term bid of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, as a payback for the governor's superlative performance and entrenchment of the culture of religious harmony in the state.

The adherents of Islamic faith, gave the support in Ado- Ekiti, on Monday through the President General, League of Imams and Alfas, Southwest, Edo and Delta States, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello, at an event commemorating the 2024 edition of Maulud Nabiyy, which symbolizes the birth of Prophet Muhammad(SAW).

The event, held at the Pavilion, Fajuyi Park, in Ado Ekiti, the State capital, was attended by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye ( who represented the Governor), and other high profile Muslim scholars across the state and Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, Sheikh Bello, saluted Oyebanji for revving up the pedal of development in the last two years, commending him for treating the Muslims as respectable stakeholders in governance and in scheme of things.

"When it comes to appointments, Governor Oyebanji has done marvelously well for Muslims, but we are still asking for more. I still have competent and well behaved Muslims that can be accommodated. I appreciate the governor for this.

"Last year, we witnessed flooding in our Mosque in Ado Ekiti. I told the Governor about the incidence and the place had been channelised now. This is a project that the entire Muslims can't complete in 10 years. 

"Without exaggeration, Governor Oyebanji had done well for us and we are going to reward him with votes and we are telling him today that we are solidly behind his reelection bid", he said.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Oyebanji ( who was represented by the Deputy Governor), assured that his government will continually operate an open door policy in dealing with religious affairs in order to ensure equality and fairness among religious bodies.

Oyebanji, who praised religious leaders in the state, reiterated the imperative of unity and oneness among leaders of religions, warning that the state has nothing to gain under the atmosphere of unrest and intolerance. 

He appreciated the Islamic leaders for their support and prayers that have helped in ensuring peaceful co-existence among the citizens and attainment of progressive development in the State. 

Oyebanji saluted Sheikh Bello and the Muslim community for their prayers that served as impetus and springboard for the success of his administration across all spheres of the economy.

"It is the desire of our government to foster peace among all the religions in the state. This is very important because no meaningful development can take place under the atmosphere of religious unrests, crisis and intolerance. 

"Therefore, I plead with you, let us continue to tolerate one another and have the strong belief that we are all serving only one Almighty God, using different doctrines and injunctions. 

"This we will do without fear or favour, because we need and depend on the prayers of both Christians and Muslims to sustain the tempo of progress and peace that we are witnessing in our state".

Oyebanji pleaded with Muslim community to continually contribute to the sustenance of peace being savoured under his leadership, so that he can leave Ekiti people better than he met them after his tenure. 

"I wish to remind us that the Holy Prophet is being celebrated today because he symbolizes tolerance, sacrificial giving, honesty, peace, generosity and Godly lifestyle. These were the virtues he exhibited in his service to Allah.

"I charge you all to emulate these virtues, so that we can collectively build Ekiti State that will be united and prosperous for our generation and the ones yet unborn".Ekiti Muslims Back Oyebanji's Second Term Bid.

.....As gov pledges religious harmony.

The Muslim Community in Ekiti State, has declared support for the second term bid of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, as a payback for the governor's superlative performance and entrenchment of the culture of religious harmony in the state.

The adherents of Islamic faith, gave the support in Ado- Ekiti, on Monday through the President General, League of Imams and Alfas, Southwest, Edo and Delta States, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello, at an event commemorating the 2024 edition of Maulud Nabiyy, which symbolizes the birth of Prophet Muhammad(SAW).

The event, held at the Pavilion, Fajuyi Park, in Ado Ekiti, the State capital, was attended by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye ( who represented the Governor), and other high profile Muslim scholars across the state and Nigeria. 

Speaking at the event, Sheikh Bello, saluted Oyebanji for revving up the pedal of development in the last two years, commending him for treating the Muslims as respectable stakeholders in governance and in scheme of things.

"When it comes to appointments, Governor Oyebanji has done marvelously well for Muslims, but we are still asking for more. I still have competent and well behaved Muslims that can be accommodated. I appreciate the governor for this.

"Last year, we witnessed flooding in our Mosque in Ado Ekiti. I told the Governor about the incidence and the place had been channelised now. This is a project that the entire Muslims can't complete in 10 years. 

"Without exaggeration, Governor Oyebanji had done well for us and we are going to reward him with votes and we are telling him today that we are solidly behind his reelection bid", he said.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Oyebanji ( who was represented by the Deputy Governor), assured that his government will continually operate an open door policy in dealing with religious affairs in order to ensure equality and fairness among religious bodies.

Oyebanji, who praised religious leaders in the state, reiterated the imperative of unity and oneness among leaders of religions, warning that the state has nothing to gain under the atmosphere of unrest and intolerance. 

He appreciated the Islamic leaders for their support and prayers that have helped in ensuring peaceful co-existence among the citizens and attainment of progressive development in the State. 

Oyebanji saluted Sheikh Bello and the Muslim community for their prayers that served as impetus and springboard for the success of his administration across all spheres of the economy.

"It is the desire of our government to foster peace among all the religions in the state. This is very important because no meaningful development can take place under the atmosphere of religious unrests, crisis and intolerance. 

"Therefore, I plead with you, let us continue to tolerate one another and have the strong belief that we are all serving only one Almighty God, using different doctrines and injunctions. 

"This we will do without fear or favour, because we need and depend on the prayers of both Christians and Muslims to sustain the tempo of progress and peace that we are witnessing in our state".

Oyebanji pleaded with Muslim community to continually contribute to the sustenance of peace being savoured under his leadership, so that he can leave Ekiti people better than he met them after his tenure. 

"I wish to remind us that the Holy Prophet is being celebrated today because he symbolizes tolerance, sacrificial giving, honesty, peace, generosity and Godly lifestyle. These were the virtues he exhibited in his service to Allah.

"I charge you all to emulate these virtues, so that we can collectively build Ekiti State that will be united and prosperous for our generation and the ones yet unborn".Ekiti Muslims Back Oyebanji's Second Term Bid.

.....As gov pledges religious harmony.

The Muslim Community in Ekiti State, has declared support for the second term bid of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, as a payback for the governor's superlative performance and entrenchment of the culture of religious harmony in the state.

The adherents of Islamic faith, gave the support in Ado- Ekiti, on Monday through the President General, League of Imams and Alfas, Southwest, Edo and Delta States, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello, at an event commemorating the 2024 edition of Maulud Nabiyy, which symbolizes the birth of Prophet Muhammad(SAW).

The event, held at the Pavilion, Fajuyi Park, in Ado Ekiti, the State capital, was attended by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye ( who represented the Governor), and other high profile Muslim scholars across the state and Nigeria. 

Speaking at the event, Sheikh Bello, saluted Oyebanji for revving up the pedal of development in the last two years, commending him for treating the Muslims as respectable stakeholders in governance and in scheme of things.

"When it comes to appointments, Governor Oyebanji has done marvelously well for Muslims, but we are still asking for more. I still have competent and well behaved Muslims that can be accommodated. I appreciate the governor for this.

"Last year, we witnessed flooding in our Mosque in Ado Ekiti. I told the Governor about the incidence and the place had been channelised now. This is a project that the entire Muslims can't complete in 10 years. 

"Without exaggeration, Governor Oyebanji had done well for us and we are going to reward him with votes and we are telling him today that we are solidly behind his reelection bid", he said.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Oyebanji ( who was represented by the Deputy Governor), assured that his government will continually operate an open door policy in dealing with religious affairs in order to ensure equality and fairness among religious bodies.

Oyebanji, who praised religious leaders in the state, reiterated the imperative of unity and oneness among leaders of religions, warning that the state has nothing to gain under the atmosphere of unrest and intolerance. 

He appreciated the Islamic leaders for their support and prayers that have helped in ensuring peaceful co-existence among the citizens and attainment of progressive development in the State. 

Oyebanji saluted Sheikh Bello and the Muslim community for their prayers that served as impetus and springboard for the success of his administration across all spheres of the economy.

"It is the desire of our government to foster peace among all the religions in the state. This is very important because no meaningful development can take place under the atmosphere of religious unrests, crisis and intolerance. 

"Therefore, I plead with you, let us continue to tolerate one another and have the strong belief that we are all serving only one Almighty God, using different doctrines and injunctions. 

"This we will do without fear or favour, because we need and depend on the prayers of both Christians and Muslims to sustain the tempo of progress and peace that we are witnessing in our state".

Oyebanji pleaded with Muslim community to continually contribute to the sustenance of peace being savoured under his leadership, so that he can leave Ekiti people better than he met them after his tenure. 

"I wish to remind us that the Holy Prophet is being celebrated today because he symbolizes tolerance, sacrificial giving, honesty, peace, generosity and Godly lifestyle. These were the virtues he exhibited in his service to Allah.

"I charge you all to emulate these virtues, so that we can collectively build Ekiti State that will be united and prosperous for our generation and the ones yet unborn".

Gov Oyebanji hails Ajayi’s appointment as DSS boss.

Gov Oyebanji hails Ajayi’s appointment as DSS boss.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has hailed the appointment of Mr Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi as the new Director General of the Department of State Service (DSS). 

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the appointment as a befitting recognition of Ajayi’s distinguished public service record. 

The Governor, who described Ajayi  as a highly professional Intelligence Officer with great insight, said his first contact with the new DSS boss was when he served as Chief Detail to the first Military Administrator of Ekiti State, the Late Col. Inua Bawa upon the creation of the state in 1996, adding that he demonstrated professionalism and integrity as a young officer then. 

“So, it’s not surprising that he has risen to the zenith of his profession, and appointed by the President to head the Department of State Service. 

“We wish him well in his new assignment.”, the Governor added.

MINIMUM WAGE: No disagreement with Gov. Oyebanji over implementation–TUC

MINIMUM WAGE: No disagreement with Gov. Oyebanji over implementation–TUC                            .…urges workers to disregard rumors trending online.

The Chairman, Trade Union Congress, Ekiti State Chapter, Comrade Sola Adigun has dispelled as rumour about the Union’s disagreement with Governor Biodun Oyebanji on the implementation of the new minimum wage.

Adigun in a statement in Ado Ekiti noted that the message which was shared via Whatsapp and Facebook platforms was cooked up by disgruntled elements whose intention is to cause confusion.

The statement reads: ”The attention of the Trade Union Congress, Ekiti State, has been drawn to a statement circulating in some sections of Social media, alleging that Ekiti workers’ representatives walked out on Governor Biodun Oyebanji during a meeting on the minimum wage implementation.

“We wish to categorically state that such is untrue, it’s fallacious, a mere fabrication and product of the maker’s imagination. The negotiation between the union and the state government on the minimum wage implementation commenced on Friday after the inaugural meeting of Wednesday 4th of September; it is, therefore, illogical in the head to reason that labour walked out of such a meeting when there weren’t any trade disputes with the government.

“We want to declare unequivocally that Governor Biodun Oyebanji has, since the inauguration of his administration, demonstrated genuine commitment to worker’s welfare, and we have no cause to doubt his willingness to implement the new minimum wage once the committee arrives at the necessary adjustables.

“We urge the public to disregard the statement and its contents. We are committed to constructive engagement with the state government to ensure the welfare of Ekiti workers is prioritized.

Adigun promised that the leadership of the Labour Force in the state would keep the public informed on the progress of the negotiation.

Hon. Ojuawo Fecilitates with Muslims on Eid Milad-ul-Nabi.

Hon. Ojuawo Fecilitates with Muslims on Eid Milad-ul-Nabi.

The Member of the House of Representatives representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, Fecilitates with Muslims on Milad ul Nabi, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad.

In a press statement released by his media team, Hon. Ojuawo extolled the teachings and practices of Islam through the great Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as exemplary, hopeful, and life-affirming for all.

“On the auspicious occasion of Milad-ul-Nabi, the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, I congratulate my people, especially my Muslim brothers and sisters. Prophet Muhammad has set a wonderful example of a human society based on equality. He has also taught us to follow the path of truth with patience.

As we celebrate the birth of the Prophet, may his guidance and wisdom fill our hearts with peace. Let us strive to be good ambassadors of our faith, promoting unity and understanding in our communities and beyond. Eid Milad-ul-Nabi Mubarak!

Hon. Ojuawo also called for good fellowship with God to mark the significance of Eid Milad-un-Nabi, praying for the nation. “May this special occasion bring us closer to our Creator and to each other, and may our collective prayers bring blessings and prosperity to our nation.” He added.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM