Hon. Oluwatuyi Stephen Ushers in December with Heartfelt Greetings to Irepodun/Ifelodun Residents.

Hon. Oluwatuyi Stephen Ushers in December with Heartfelt Greetings to Irepodun/Ifelodun Residents.

As the curtains of 2024 draw closer to a fulfilled end, the Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Honourable Oluwatuyi Stephen Oluwagbenga, fondly known as Chenco, has extended warm and uplifting greetings to the people of the local government area.

In his goodwill message, Hon. Oluwatuyi described December as a month of reflection, gratitude, and renewed hope. He urged residents to embrace the season with optimism and determination to finish the year strong, emphasizing the importance of unity, hard work, and community spirit.

“May this new month bring abundant blessings, breakthroughs, and progress to every household in Irepodun/Ifelodun. Let us continue to work together for the growth and development of our local government, as our collective efforts have always been our strength,” he stated.

He assured residents of his administration’s unwavering commitment to fostering development and improving the standard of living across the communities. He also expressed gratitude for their support throughout the year, promising to sustain impactful governance into the new year.

As the festive season approaches, Hon. Oluwatuyi encouraged everyone to prioritize safety, spread love, and uphold the values that define the people of Irepodun/Ifelodun.

“May this season fill your hearts with joy, your homes with peace, and your lives with unending prosperity. Together, we shall enter the new year with renewed vigor and hope,” he concluded.

Oyebanji Salutes Monarchs' Robust Partnership to Curb Communal Clashes in Ekiti.

Oyebanji Salutes Monarchs' Robust Partnership to Curb Communal Clashes in Ekiti.                                                                           ....As first class Oba declares support for Oyebanji's second term.

The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has told the traditional rulers that his government is counting heavily on their intelligence and support base to facilitate safety of all citizens across the state.

Oyebanji said he considered the traditional rulers as strategic partners in governance and in the actualisation of the development policy of his administration, who should be deferred to in decision- making processes to boost their relevance and contributions to nation building. 

This came as a First Class Traditional Ruler and Attah of Ayede Ekiti, Oba Abdumumini Orisagbemi, declared support for the second term of Governor  Oyebanji, saying the governor merits the consideration based on his superlative performance.

Oyebanji said these in Ayede Ekiti, Oye Local Government Area, on Saturday, during a ceremony marking the 10th Coronation Anniversary of the Attah of Ayede Ekiti, Oba Orisagbemi on the throne of his forebears. 

Speaking at the event attended by traditional rulers across the nation, Oyebanji, represented by his Deputy, Chief Mrs. Monisade Christianah Afuye, saluted the monarchs for their contributions to the actualisation of his vision and policy thrust to ignite development in all spheres of the economy.

Essentially, Oyebanji congratulated Oba Orisagbemi for spearheading development strides that had uplifted  and maintain peace, unity and orderliness in the town.

"Let me start by congratulating His Royal Majesty for his giant strides and efforts in setting Ayede Ekiti on the path of development, unity, peace and progress . All these reflected in the level of unity that had been demonstrated by the indigenes of this town 

"Building of a progressive, peaceful and united kingdom is not a task that can be solely achieved by anyone. It requires everybody coming on board and this you have demonstrated because since the advent of Biodun Oyebanji's administration, we have not heard or witnessed any uprising or intra  communal clash in this town capable of threatening the lives and property of the people and the peace being enjoyed in Ekiti State.

"I appreciate all the traditional rulers across the 140 autonomous towns in Ekiti State. His Excellency, Governor Biodun Oyebanji appreciates your support and contributions to State building and maintenance of peace in your domains. 

"We are indeed very happy with the way you have been partnering the government to maintain peace in particular. We are assuring you that this government will continually respect  and consider you as strategic partners in governance.

" We will continue to defer to you in all our decision making processes, so that you can remain relevant in the scheme of things. I am indeed appreciative of your sense of industry and patriotism to our state", he said. 

In his submission, Oba Orisagbemi applauded the government of Oyebanji for his commitment to rural development policies that had been felt across all the towns in the state, saying his second term bid worths being supported by all the citizens.

The First Class traditional ruler, also praised his subjects for their unflinching support for his administration, thereby making his reign progressive and development driven in the last one decade.

"Let me appreciate Governor Biodun Oyebanji for all he has done for the traditional rulers and my kingdom in particular. But, I want to say that his first four years have been memorable and development driven, so he deserves 4 + 4 = 8.

"Though, he has done well for my people in Ayede Ekiti, but I want to appeal to him to allot more political appointments to my people in his government, so that we can be more relevant in the scheme of things", the monarch stated.

INCREDIBLE TESTIMONIES A

INCREDIBLE TESTIMONIES ABOUT IMPROVED POWER SUPPLY IN EKITI.

BY ODUNAYO OGUNMOLA

When Governor Biodun Oyebanji assumed office on 16th October, 2022, one of the herculean tasks before him was the situation of public power supply in Ekiti State.

Before his ascension to office, epileptic electricity was a huge challenge that confronted private individuals, families, small-scale and large-scale businesses, corporate organizations and public institutions.

The previous administrations had tried their best to remedy the situation by adopting various measures to tackle the problem but rather than abate, inadequate power supply refused to go away thereby rendering their efforts futile.

Ekiti was becoming synonymous with darkness and Oyebanji who was not happy with the situation decided to confront the hydra-headed problem headlong. Like he used to say, he was not elected to give excuses but to find solutions to the problems of the people who popularly elected him into office.

Like a surgeon clutching his scalpel, Oyebanji slowly, gradually, potently and decisively performed a surgical operation on the power subsector which forms an integral part of Infrastructure and Industrialization, the fourth leg of the five-pillar agenda of his administration.

One of the earlier decisions taken by Mr Governor in the life of his administration was a meeting he held with the management of Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) on issues around complaints by residents on billing system, discrepancies in payment and distribution and exploring ways to solve them.

Governor Oyebanji's hard work turn around the electricity situation in Ekiti State to the delight of the people who are the ultimate beneficiaries and the economy that is on the upward swing in both rural and urban centres.

Communities in Ayekire and Ekiti East Local Government Areas in the state who had been in darkness for over ten years before the advent of the Oyebanji Administration now have good stories to tell as they now enjoy regular power supply with positive impact on their economic and social lives.

It would be recalled that the Governor performed the symbolic switching on of light during the celebration of the first anniversary of his administration at Omuo to officially restore public power supply to towns and villages in Ayekire and Ekiti East Local Government Areas and the residents are revelling in the joy of this change of status.

Few days ago, a video went viral on various social media platforms in which a woman sang the praises of Governor Oyebanji to high heavens commending him for restoring light to her hometown, Omuo and other communities in Ekiti East expressing joy that they had enjoyed power supply for four consecutive days without any outage.

She said: "Look at our situation now in Ekiti East. I went to work earlier today and before I came back, all the water and beverages I put inside my refrigerator has turned to (ice) blocks because we have been enjoying uninterrupted electricity now for the past four consecutive days. We thank Governor BAO for what he has done for us."

This is one of several testimonies of restoration of joy, excitement, hope restored, resuscitation of businesses, social life and  boosting of security of lives and property of the residents of the affected council areas.

All these did not happen by accident; they resulted from the Governor's commitment to rescuing the state from darkness, lifting businesses from the doldrums and improving the energy needs of the people for their social and economic benefits.

Governor Oyebanji's reforms in the state's electricity subsector is another remarkable testament of a strong will to change the narrative from a state suffering epileptic power supply to a state that now enjoys regular power supply.

After two years in office, the Governor has several achievements to showcase in the electricity subsector which has positively rubbed off on the people of the state and its economy. This is another promise made and promise kept by the People's Governor.

The achievements include the establishment of a 5-Mega Watts Independent Power Project (IPP), which is currently providing uninterrupted power supply to the Government House, the Governor's Office, the House of Assembly, the State Secretariat, the Ekiti State University (EKSU) and the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH).

The towns of Erijiyan, Ikogosi and Ipole Iloro which house the two prominent tourist destinations, Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort and Arinta Water Falls have been connected back to the National Grid and this has had significant impact on the economy of these communities located in Ekameta Local Council Development Area.

Communities reconnected back to the National Grid in Ayekire Local Government Area are Ijan, Iluomoba, Aisegba, Agbado, Imesi, Ode, Isinbode, Egbe, Iro Ayeteju while Omuo in Ekiti East is also back on the National Grid following the Governor's response to their rescue from a decade long blackout.

The state also witnessed the extension of 33kv network from 132kv Omisanjana transmission substation to Baptist High School while the Ilawe dedicated 33kv feeder line has been connected with Erijiyan.

Under the watch of Governor Oyebanji, 500kva 33/0.415 relief transformer was installed at Ikogosi while the extension of electricity from Omuo to Eda Ile, Ikun Oba, Araromi and Ilasa has commenced. Also, the extension of a dedicated 33kv feeder line from Omisanjana through Ilawe to Igbara Odo is ongoing.

A major significant breakthrough in the power subsector recorded under the Oyebanji Administration was the establishment and incorporation of Ile Iyi Power Company Nigeria Limited through which the state government is leveraging on the removal of power generation from the constitutional exclusive list to concurrent list.

Consequent upon this, the Ekiti State Government has licensed electricity investors which include 3 Distribution Companies, 4 Generation Companies and Five Meter Assets Providers as the state targets a stable supply of 130 Mega Watts.

Apparently impressed by the development, a Twitter user, BOSA@Obasa Sanmi writes: "Mr Bayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, needs to urgently convene a workshop with all state governors and give them this Ekiti template as the template to work on to generate, transmit and distribute a minimum of 500MW between now and December, 2026."

The Oyebanji Administration also established the Ekiti State Electricity Regulatory Bureau (EKSERB) under the leadership of an Executive Secretary as a demonstration of its commitment to reform and turnaround of the subsector.

The major streets of Ado Ekiti and some other major towns are now well-lit and brightly illuminated in the night with solar-powered streetlights which is cheaper and more affordable thereby completely eliminating huge spending on purchase of diesel to power streetlights which was the scenario that obtained in the past.

This has extended business hours, improved nightlife and boosted security in the towns and also projected Ekiti as a state where the light shines. Stable electricity is a harbinger for inflow of investment and creation of job opportunities.

The efforts of Governor Oyebanji in the power subsector will go a long way in bettering the lots of the citizens and bring them into the loop of Shared Prosperity.

*Ogunmola is Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media (Print Media)

EKITI 2026: MY FUTURE IS IN GOD’S HANDS, SAYS GOV OYEBANJI.

EKITI 2026: MY FUTURE IS IN GOD’S HANDS, SAYS GOV OYEBANJI.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has stated that he is not worried over agitations ahead of the 2026 Governorship election in the state, stressing that his political future is in the hands of God who has never failed him. 

Governor Oyebanji stated this in Ado Ekiti on Friday night at the monthly Evening of Praise and Worship at the Jibowu Hall, Government House Ground. He expressed confidence in God’s ability to work out things in his favour, maintaining that God who did it for him in 2022, would do it again in 2026.

The Governor who disclosed that he received text messages from politicians regularly, expressing anxieties over 2026, said his belief is that God’s plan supersedes any human agenda, adding that he would not lose sleep over the development as God is in control. 

Reflecting on his administration’s achievement so far, Governor Oyebanji attributed the significant progress recorded across critical sectors in the state to divine intervention despite the economic realities. He added that since he handed over Ekiti state to God, the state has enjoyed abundant peace, progress and prosperity.

Speaking further, the Governor said his focus remains on delivering good governance and fulfilling the promises he made to Ekiti people. “God is in charge of everything including the 2026 that many people are anxious about. He will take care of everything. For now, let us concentrate on the work that has been given to us and let us do it very well.”, he added. 

“For those that are worried about 2026, sending me text messages everyday, don’t bother yourself. God that did the last one will do it again. Don’t bother yourself. Some complain that am not a politician, that I don’t understand politics. I am not bothered about this, nothing is going to stop my peace because I serve the God of peace.

“What God does not give a man, he cannot have it and when God makes up his mind, nobody can stop him. So, I am just saying this so that you can stop sending me text messages expressing anxieties about 2026”. He asserted.

The November edition of Evening of Praise and Worship was graced by the Speaker of the State Assembly, Rt Hon Adeoye Aribasoye, members of the state assembly, members of the state executive council, appointees of government, top civil servants, Christian leaders and the general public. 

Gospel ministers at the event include: The National Praise Team of the Redeemed Christin Church of God; Sister Dupe Olulana; Sister Biola Ojuawo and Minister Akobi.

Council Boss Partners Police to Curb Kidnapping, Banditry at Ekiti/Kwara Borders.

Council Boss Partners Police to Curb Kidnapping, Banditry at Ekiti/Kwara Borders.

The Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Amb. Prince Michael Ogungbemi, has signed a pact with the Commissioner of Police, Ekiti State Command, Mr. Akinwale Adeniran, to enhance security and tackle criminal activities at the Ekiti/Kwara border.

The agreement was reached during a visit by Ogungbemi and a team of Ajoni LCDA officials to the Police Headquarters in Ado Ekiti on Thursday.

Speaking during the visit, Ogungbemi highlighted the importance of the partnership, emphasizing the need to align strategies for stronger synergy in implementing robust security measures across Ajoni communities and border areas. He stressed that the recurring issues of banditry and kidnapping at the Ekiti/Kwara border could only be addressed through a strengthened collaboration with the police.

Commending the existing partnership that has sustained relative peace in the region, Ogungbemi urged the Commissioner to intensify efforts in combating crime and criminality. He underscored the importance of continuous surveillance and collaboration to safeguard lives and property in Ajoni LCDA and its environs.

Ogungbemi also called for the establishment of a Police Divisional Headquarters in Ajoni LCDA, citing its critical role in protecting the area’s growing population and economic assets.

“More importantly, to protect the existing facilities, such as the only functional bank in the whole of Ikole Local Government Area, WEMA Bank PLC, protection of the students and properties of Federal University of Oye Ekiti Annex at Ajoni LCDA, Federal Government College, Cassava Processing Industries, Ekiti State Agricultural Processing Zone at Iyemero Ekiti, Agbeyewa Farms at Ipao Ekiti, Agricultural settlement at Oke Ako-Ekiti, Gede farms settlement, and other private industrial development in Ajoni LCDA,” Ogungbemi said.

He described the visit as a milestone in Ajoni LCDA’s proactive approach to governance and security, emphasizing his administration’s commitment to creating a safe and conducive environment for residents.

During the meeting, discussions also focused on addressing the porosity of Ajoni LCDA’s borders with Kwara and Kogi States. Ogungbemi noted that Ajoni LCDA, being the largest in population and landmass, hosts a high concentration of immigrant farmers and settlers, coupled with vast ungoverned areas requiring focused security attention.

Responding, the Commissioner of Police commended the council’s dedication to maintaining security and assured the Chairman of the Police Force’s unwavering support in achieving a safer Ajoni LCDA.

The delegation from Ajoni LCDA included the Vice Chairman, Prince Tunde Famoroti; Secretary to the Local Government, Hon. Sola Alagbo; and the Head of Local Authority, Mr. Tunde Arowolaju.

Ekiti Workers, Relatives Bid Farewell to Retired HLA, Comfort Modupe Dayo-Ige.

Ekiti Workers, Relatives Bid Farewell to Retired HLA, Comfort Modupe Dayo-Ige.

The late Mrs. Comfort Modupe Dayo-Ige (née Adeoti), a retired Head of Local Government Administration (HLA) in Ikere Ekiti Local Government, was laid to rest amidst tears and tributes from her children, relatives, and colleagues across Ekiti State’s Local Government and Local Council Development Areas (LCDA).

The burial ceremony, held at her residence, drew a large crowd, including the Permanent Secretary of the Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission, Mrs. Titilayo Toba Ojo, who led senior officials and staff of the commission to pay their respects.

During the service, relatives and local government staff rendered emotional dirges, capturing the immense grief of the occasion. The atmosphere was charged with mourning as colleagues and loved ones recounted fond memories of the late Mrs. Dayo-Ige.

In her eulogy, Mrs. Toba Ojo described the deceased as a paragon of integrity, commitment, and discipline. "She was a diligent and down-to-earth professional who embodied heavenly consciousness in her dealings. Her legacy of truthfulness and dedication will remain etched in our hearts," Mrs. Ojo stated.

She further announced that funds contributed in honor of the late Mrs. Dayo-Ige would be directed toward the academic and welfare needs of her children, ensuring they continue to thrive despite the loss of their mother.

Adding to the tributes, officiating ministers extolled the virtues of the departed and urged attendees to emulate her God-fearing nature and dedication to service. They emphasized the transient nature of life and the importance of living purposefully.

"Mrs. Dayo-Ige lived a life of service to God and humanity," one of the pastors remarked. "Her exemplary life reminds us all to remain steadfast in faith and to ensure our lives positively impact those around us."

The ceremony concluded with prayers for the family and words of comfort, as attendees bid a final farewell to a beloved colleague and mother.

Oyebanji Restates Commitment to Education Infrastructure Upgrade to World Standard.

Oyebanji Restates Commitment to Education Infrastructure Upgrade to World Standard.

.…Commissions Senate Building at BOUESTI.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has reiterated the commitment of his administration to regular upgrade of infrastructure in the education sector to meet global standards.

Governor Oyebanji stated this in Ikere Ekiti on Thursday while commissioning an ultra Modern Senate Building, built and donated to the Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti (BOUESTI ) by the Chancellor of the University, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN). 

 The event was attended by the Minister of Education, Dr Olatunji Alausa; former Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko; Secretary to the State Government, Dr (Mrs) Habibat Adubiaro; Senator Olarenwaju Tejuoso; and Chairman, Governing Council of BoUESTI, Prof Patrick Aina, and Vice Chancellor of sister universities, among others.

Governor Oyebanji emphasized the importance of modernizing educational facilities to create an environment conducive for learning and teaching, stressing that a well-structured education system is key to the development of any society. 

He added that his government remained focused on ensuring that Ekiti students have access to world-class education and facilities. 

Speaking further, the Governor explained that his effort in the education sector in the state could be seen in the tremendous improvement in the infrastructure of primary and secondary schools across the state.

While commending Chief Olanipekun for his generosity as well as his remarkable contribution to the improvement of education infrastructure in the state, the Governor expressed his profound appreciation to the former NBA President for remaining strongly committed to the development and progress of the state.

Describing Chief Olanipekun as a pillar of development in the state, Governor Oyebanji said his contribution has significantly impacted various sectors, adding that his dedication to community service have set a benchmark for others to follow. 

While calling on other prominent Ekiti indigenes to join hands in building a brighter future for the state, the Governor noted that collective efforts are essential for meaningful development of the state.

“Today's event is very significant in the development of this university and the overall development of education in our state, I therefore congratulate Chief Olanipekun and his wife and the entire university community on the completion of this magnificent edifice. 

“As a government, we understand the importance of education to the overall development plan of Ekiti State. Indeed human capital development is one critical item in our shared prosperity agenda as encapulated in our six-pillars. Our government remains committed to continuous improvement of our education infrastructure to facilitate a conducive learning environment at all levels of education”, the Governor added. 

In his own remarks, the Minister of Education, Dr Olatunji Alausa, who commended the donor for his selfless contribution to the education sector, described the gesture as a demonstration of his commitment to national growth and development..

While reiterating President Tinubu led-federal government decision to prioritize science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medical sciences (STEM) as a key driver of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the education sector, the Minister noted that Nigeria’s future growth and competitiveness on the global stage are tied to how well the nation prepares its youth to meet challenges of the 21st century.

Stressing the importance of equipping young Nigerians with the critical skills and innovative capabilities needed to succeed in the global economy, Dr Alausa maintained that the federal government remains committed to transforming the education system of the country.

In his address, the donor of the building and Chancellor of the University, Chief Wole Olanipekun( SAN), expressed satisfaction in contributing to the advancement of the education sector and the progress of the state.

He explained that the gesture was a way of giving back to his community and supporting the vision of the University of becoming a beacon of academic excellence.

He said he had to double up on the construction of the senate building in order to fulfill his earlier promise to Governor Oyebanji and demonstrate his support for his government’s efforts in the areas of education , human capital and infrastructure development.