We’ll protect your interest, Oyebanji tells LG workers.

We’ll protect your interest, Oyebanji tells LG workers.

….as NULGE holds appreciation rally at Governor’s office.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has told local government workers in the state that his government would take care of their interests in the implementation of the Supreme Court judgment on LG autonomy. 

He said his administration is irrevocably committed to their welfare, assuring that they would not suffer any negative consequences as a result of the new admistrative and fiscal arrangement occasioned by the 

Supreme court ruling. 

The Governor disclosed this on Saturday morning when he received Local government workers under the aiges of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), who came on a solidarity visit to his office in Ado Ekiti. 

The workers, led by leaders of the union and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), were at the Governor’s office to thank the Governor for the completion of the Local Government Service Commission Building as well as other policies of the government that had promoted the interests of the workers. 

Citing various peogrammes and policies of the Government, the workers said they would work assiduously for the Governor’s second term in office . 

They described his election in 2022 as a worthwhile mandate well maximized for the interest of all Ekiti people, adding that they would mobilize support for his re- election. 

The Local government workers, who spoke through their representatives led by the President, NULGEN, Comrade Oluseyi Olatunde, said the entire staff of local government in the state were irrevocably committed to Governor Oyebanji’s second term bid owing to the landmark achievements of the Governor through his visionary leadership and tireless efforts aimed at moving the state forward.

Comrade Olatunde, affirmed that Ekiti is tremendously lucky to have Governor Oyebanji in the saddle at a critical time like this stating that the governor had been able to bring Ekiti out of infrastructural decay and deliver local government workers from economic quagmire by activating economic prosperity and transformation through his mantra of share prosperity.

The NULGE  president highlighted some of the governor’s achievements in the local government to include regular payment of pension to retirees, release of lump sum of N1.2Billion for payment of arrears of gratuities as well as payment of six months arrears of salaries and four months of deductions to both local government workers and primary school teachers.

While commending the positive disposition of the Governor to the plight of local government workers, Comrade Olatunde applauded payment of 2017 and 2018 leave bonuses, appointment of two additional Permanent Secretaries for the Commission, and forty five heads of local government administration, completion of the new secretariat complex for the commission as well as regular promotion of staff among others. He noted that all these and many more have endeared him to the heart of all Ekiti both at home and in the diaspora.

“We are here to say thank you for providing robust leadership. In less than one year in office, our health workers that have been marginalized and discriminated against for more than thirteen years, and you graciously put an end to this by approving and implementing health consolidated salaries for our health workers, thereby putting them at par with their counterparts in the state employ. A development that put an end to two salary regimes among health workers in the same sector. 

The Governor stated that he had not done anything that is spectacular, adding that  appreciation should  be given to God and President Tinubu who provided the needed resources for his administration to thrive and which enabled  him deliver dividends of democracy to the people.

Ojuawo Felicitates with Chief Afe Babalola on His Birthday.

Ojuawo Felicitates with Chief Afe Babalola on His Birthday.

Honorable member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, Hon. (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, congratulates Chief Afe Babalola, SAN, founder and Pro Chancellor of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), on his birthday.

In his congratulatory message, Hon. Ojuawo praises Chief Afe Babalola as an institution and model for future generations.

"Today marks an opportunity to wish our revered Baba a happy birthday and many more years of groundbreaking achievements ahead. I appreciate and thank him for his mentorship and transformative leadership in Ekiti and Nigeria. His impact on law, education, health, and agriculture is indelible, constantly supporting the government and society.

I salute his philanthropic and creative ideas that empower younger generations. Baba, I wish you many more years of great accomplishment".

Hon. Ojuawo also commends HRM Oba Rufus Adeyemo Aladejuyigbe for designating October 18 as Afe Babalola Day to celebrate the icon's trailblazing legacy, deserving recognition in his lifetime. He prays for Chief Babalola's good health, sound mind, and continued good work, leaving enduring legacies for generations to come.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

I Won't Relegate any Religion in Ekiti, Oyebanji Assures Muslim Community.

I Won't Relegate any Religion in Ekiti, Oyebanji Assures Muslim Community.

....your humility, home boy culture have paid off, Sheikh Bello tells Governor.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has promised to continue to maintain fairness in dealing with religious affairs in the state as a way of fostering harmony and spirit of brotherhood among adherents of different religions, adding that he won't betray the confidence reposed in him by the Muslim community.

Oyebanji gave the assurance, on Friday, at a Jum'at Service commemorating his second year anniversary, held at the Central Mosque, Oja Oba, Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State Capital.

Addressing the congregation, Oyebanji praised the Muslim leaders and faithful across the state for being steadfast in their support for his government, promising to rev up the pedal of development to benefit all the strata of the society for the rest of his tenure. 

He charged Muslims to maintain the culture of religious tolerance and harmony being enjoyed among all religious tendencies, urging them to sustain the tempo in the overall interest of the state, particularly in driving investments. 

"I am here to appreciate God and all Muslims for their support. Let me bring to your notice that none of those Muslims in my cabinet failed leadership tests, they all performed well, right from the Secretary to the state Government to the last person.

"Last time we came here, I pledged that flooding won't affect this Mosque again, I thank God that we have redeemed our pledge. 

"Let me assure you that whatever is due for you, I shall give you freely without you fighting for it. When things were tough and hard, Muslims stood by me, they never said I am not their member. Whatever you have interest in, I shall redeem it and make it possible for you. You said I have the best records in terms of appointments for Muslims, this is just the beginning, I shall do more by God’s grace.  

"I want to assure you that we are going to serve you very well and zealously. We are supposed to serve you as leaders. You elected us and sent us on this journey, so that we can serve you. I will never fail you. Muslims leaders, particularly the Grand Imam has been so nice and steadfast in his support. I appreciate you", Oyebanji said.

In his sermon, the President, League of Imams and Alfas in Southwest, Edo and Delta, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello, warned the  Muslim adherents against abusing their leaders and scolding them openly over any noticeable shortcoming.

The Islamic Cleric advised that they should rather offer prayer supplications that would direct the psyches and feet of those in leadership to the path of honesty, humanity, transparency and accountability. 

Bello, who doubles as  the Grand Imams of Ekiti State, appreciated the governor for embracing religious balancing and appointed many Muslims into his cabinet to contribute their quotas to the development of the State. 

"We should pray for our leaders, so that they can do more. The work they do is tasking and arduous. Governor Oyebanji is one Governor we should all pray for, he deserves our prayers. Our Governor is working hard, he didn't allow us to be hungry the way God wishes.

"We have been having governors in this state, Governor Oyebanji is different. In character, mutual respect , philanthropy and humility, he is unique. You are leading well and other arms of government like the State Assembly are following your footsteps. I want you to work harder. I am happy that you didn't abandon your predecessors, that is how a leader should behave", Bello stated.

Bello stated further that  the "homeboy culture" of Governor Oyebanji has paid off for the citizens of the state, praising those who supported him to be governor for propping up and marketed a good product for Ekiti populace. 

At the closure of his short exhortation, Sheikh Bello led the congregation to offer  prayers for the success of the administrations of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji. 

Present at the service are: the Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Habibat Adubiaro, Commissioners, Special Advisers, Muslim leaders, among others.

Agbeyewa Cup Reaches Quarterfinal Stage as Eight Schools Battle for Supremacy.

Agbeyewa Cup Reaches Quarterfinal Stage as Eight Schools Battle for Supremacy.

The Agbeyewa Cup second edition has reached its crucial quarterfinal stage, with eight secondary schools emerging from a keenly contested round of 16. Yesterday's matches, held across eight different zones in Ekiti State, saw the following schools advance:

1. Omuo-Ore Secondary School, Omuo (Ekiti East Local Government)

2. Ayede Grammar School, Ayede Ekiti (Oye Local Government)

3. Government College, Ado Ekiti (Ado Local Government)

4. AUD Comprehensive College, Ikere (Ikere Local Government)

5. Iludun Community High School, Ilejemeje Local Government

6. Fabunmi High School, Okemesi (Ekiti West Local Government)

7. Doherty Memorial Grammar School, Ijero Local Government

8. Ifaki Grammar School, Ido Osi Local Government.

These schools will clash in the quarterfinals on Tuesday, 22nd October 2024, across four different locations, with all games kicking off simultaneously at 3pm. The winners will progress to the semifinals on Thursday, 24th October, while the highly anticipated final match will be played on 29th October 2024 at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado Ekiti.

The stakes are high, with attractive prizes awaiting the top three teams. The winner will receive a whopping N1,000,000, while the first runner-up will take home N500,000. The second runner-up will receive N250,000, along with other exciting packages.

As the competition heats up, fans and supporters are eagerly anticipating thrilling encounters between these talented young teams. Adl and team are on the ground to splash you with updates. 

Follow the Agbeyewa Cup for updates and stay abreast of the actions.

I am Adl

Ondo Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Project Reaches Physical Stage, Says Akinwalire.

Ondo Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Project Reaches Physical Stage, Says Akinwalire.

In a significant advancement towards providing clean drinking water to Ondo State residents, the state government, under the leadership of Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa, has announced that the Urban Water Supply and Sanitation Rehabilitation project has reached the physical component stage. This vital initiative, co-financed by the African Development Bank (AfDB), Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and the Ondo State Government, aims to deliver potable water from the Owena Multipurpose Dam, Owena Ondo Dam and Igbaraoke Water Supply Scheme to various towns and villages within the Ondo Central Senatorial District, including Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo.

Hon. Sunday Akinwalire, the Commissioner for Water Resources, Public Sanitation & Hygiene, made this announcement during a supervisory visit from AFD partners, to review the project's progress. The visiting delegation, comprising Mr. Clement Frenoux, Tax Team Lead, and Mr. Jean Guillermit, Project Manager for Nigeria, Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Federal Ministry of Finance Team expressed their satisfaction with the project’s development. They emphasized their mission to ensure compliance with project standards and provide necessary support for its successful completion.

Akinwalire, representing Governor Ayedatiwa, extended gratitude to the AFD team for their oversight and collaboration. He highlighted the Governor's eagerness to see potable water supplied to households across the state, particularly in the designated areas. He assured the visiting partners of the Ondo State Government's unwavering commitment to timely project completion.

In a related development, the General Manager of the Ondo State Water Corporation (ODWC), Engr.Ogunjobi R.S., led the supervision mission team to the Owena Multipurpose Dam for an inspection. He noted that the dam, with a design capacity of 36 million cubic meters and a clear water tank capable of holding 5,000 cubic meters of water daily, is also designed for irrigation, power generation, and potable water supply to major communities within the state.

During a technical session held at Royal Birds Hotel, the General Manager provided updates on the activities of the Project Implementation Unit and urged the AFD team to expedite the approval of various requests to ensure the project's timely completion. He also called on the Corporation's Project Implementation Unit Team to show greater commitment to actualizing the project.

The supervisory visit also included key officials such as Mrs. Victoria Adetoye, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, Engr. Omoge V.O., the State Project Coordinator, and representatives from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, the Federal Ministry of Finance, and the State Project Implementation Unit Team.

Olukoju Clement

Communication Desk Officer ODWC (PIU)

NANS Condemns Unrest at College of Health Sciences and Technology, Jega, Calls for Immediate Intervention.

NANS Condemns Unrest at College of Health Sciences and Technology, Jega, Calls for Immediate Intervention.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), led by Comr. Lucky Emonefe GCNS, has expressed deep concern over recent disturbances at the College of Health Sciences and Technology, Jega, Kebbi State. This was conveyed through a statement from the National Director of Research and Innovation, Comr. Sadiq SK Zango.

According to reports, students, reacting to allegations of financial extortion, set fire to the residence of the Provost, Mr. Haruna Saidu-Sauwa, and vandalized his vehicle. The unrest is said to have been triggered by grievances related to a purported N23 million extortion scheme linked to index registration fees. Allegedly, 250 graduating students were asked to pay an additional N65,000 each, on top of an earlier N30,000 fee, following the merger of a newly introduced public health program with the Environmental Health Department.

The college's decision to merge the programs was reportedly taken to comply with the requirements of the Reproductive Health and Public Health Association of Nigeria. However, protests erupted over the financial burden imposed, leading to the destruction of vehicles and the provost’s residence.

NANS’ Position and Recommendations:

1. Condemnation of Violence: While supporting students' rights to express grievances, NANS condemned the acts of violence, arson, and vandalism, stating that destruction of property undermines the credibility of legitimate concerns.

2. Call for Transparent Dialogue: NANS called on the management of the College of Health Sciences and Technology, Kebbi State Government, and other relevant stakeholders to engage with student representatives in an open, constructive dialogue to address grievances and restore peace.

3. Independent Investigation into Allegations: NANS demanded a thorough, impartial investigation into the allegations of extortion concerning the index registration fees. The association stressed that if the allegations are proven, those responsible must be held accountable to prevent future exploitation of students.

4. De-escalation and Non-Retaliatory Measures: NANS cautioned the college administration and security agencies against taking retaliatory actions. The focus, it said, should be on restoring order while respecting students' rights and ensuring a peaceful resolution.

5. Commitment to Student Welfare: NANS reiterated its dedication to protecting the welfare of Nigerian students and urged institutions to avoid imposing undue financial burdens that could hinder academic progress.

NANS, alongside the Deputy Coordinator of NANS Zone A, Comr. Adamu Ibrahim Dikko, assured students of their commitment to resolving the situation peacefully and called for all parties to work towards an amicable resolution that promotes justice, accountability, and academic excellence. The association pledged to continue engaging relevant stakeholders to achieve a just and lasting solution.

Don't Allow vandals Destroy Electricity Projects, Gov Oyebanji Charges Citizens.

 Don't Allow vandals Destroy  Electricity Projects, Gov Oyebanji Charges Citizens.            ….Commissions electricity projects across 3 LGAs.  

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has charged the people of the state to mount surveillance in all the communities and prevent vandals from destroying electricity facilities provided to shore up power supply and for steady economic growth. 

Oyebanji also warned communities experiencing restiveness to be wary of their actions, stressing that the government may not contemplate siting any project in any turbulent environment for security reasons. 

The Governor gave the charge on Thursday, while commissioning a 33 KVA Aramoko- Ijero electricity project in Ijero Ekiti, and another one for Ilawe - Igbala Odo Ekiti. 

Harping on the imperative of the towns working hard to avert destruction of the power facilities, Oyebanji stressed that no community can experience development while in perpetual darkness and mired in interrupted power supply. 

"Light and development are like twins. Any town without electricity will find it difficult to develop. I can see the stagnation and difficulty for Ijero to develop with this situation. From today, the economic activities will go up.

"Our traders, fashion designers, welders, bakers and other artisans will enjoy the full benefit and our local economy will be transformed. Some of the teachers and doctors posted here won't seek posting to other towns that are electrified. 

"For you to enjoy this facility, form a surveillance and watch over it. Don't allow vandals to destroy it. Those who are destroying our facilities are living within us. They are our people, so help us beg and appeal to them to desist from this unwholesome act.This project is not going to benefit Ijero alone, but all the towns in the local government".

On how the town can be evenly metered, Oyebanji, said: "I want the residents to work with the Ministry to ensure that all the houses are metered. It has happened in Ikogosi, Aramoko and Erinjiyan. But if you don't get the meters, you will only see the facilities, you won't see the light.

"I want to discourage the culture of bulk or estimated billings, so that you can only pay for the electricity used, nobody will cheat you", he said.

Oyebanji  promised to extend electricity to the General Hospital in Ijero Ekiti, so that the electricity provided can full serve the purpose for which it is meant for. 

On the decrepit  state of Aramoko-Ijero road that was constituting a threat to commuters, Oyebanji disclosed that the route is a federal road, saying efforts are being intensified to ensure that it receives the attention of the federal government via the federal lawmakers to fasttrack action on it. 

On the crisis in Ayegunle community, a vassal town under Ijero Ekiti between the traditional ruler and a faction, Oyebanji urged the people of of the town to maintain peace, saying the raging bedlam was a statement that will impede progress and development in the town, if not halted.

"Let us allow our traditional rulers to handle it. Let us await how the matter will be resolved. It is a traditional issue that we believed our traditional rulers can handle effectively. Let us allow them to handle it to restore peace to the town".

Speaking in Ilawe Ekiti at the commissioning of the electricity extension to Igbara- Odo and Ogotun Ekiti, Oyebanji, said the communities had hitherto been getting their power from Ondo State, but would now be receiving maximum supply from Ado Ekiti 33KVA substation, which will be more stable. 

In his submission, the Commissioner for Infrastructure and Pubic Utilities, Prof. Bolaji Aluko, described the project as significant  on the premise that the the benefitting towns will be disconnected  from the hitherto electricity connection from far away Omu -Aran, in Kwara State and had now been reconnected to Ado Ekiti, which will bolster regular power supply, with high voltage.

"Electricity is the lifewire of development. All the people living between  Aramoko - Ijero won't suffer unstable electricity supply again. We have done this kind of project in many other places in Ekiti like Ilawe Ekiti and other towns. This is a huge success in the life of this administration". 

The Regional Head, Benin Electricity Distribution Company,  Mrs Akin Afuye- Moyosola, applauded the governor  for partnering the firm, by way of reconnecting some towns in Gbonyin, Ekiti East and Ekiti Southwest councils to national grid.

Applauding the government for its vision, the Ajero of Ijero, Oba Joseph Adewole and President, Ijero Development Forum, Otunba Niyi Babade, appealed to the community to protect the infrastructurae from vandals, so that they can enjoy the full benefit of its provision. 

Oba Adewole regretted that some of the government staff posted to the town used to seek sudden redeployment due to poor electricity supply, saying this will correct this shortcoming.

"Even when we have light, it used to be low supply, very low voltage that can't power anything. We know that this project will correct all the past sufferings and usher in a new chapter in our history. This project had been completed since June, 2024. Some of the conditions laid down by BEDC were provided by the government".

Commending the governor for extending electricity to Ogotun and Igbara Odo, the Alawe of Ilawe Ekiti, Oba Adebanji Alabi, and  Arajaka of Igbara Odo, Oba Edward Jayeola, said the communities will continually support Oyebanji to make a success of his six point agenda.

Besides electricity, the monarchs saluted the governor for reconstructing  Ogotun-Ikogosi road, Ilawe- Ikere road and Ogotun-Ikere road, that has been abandoned for over 50 years.