Council Boss Warns Against Harmattan-Triggered Fire Disasters.

Council Boss Warns Against Harmattan-Triggered Fire Disasters.

The Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Honorable Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, popularly known as Chenco, has issued a cautionary note to residents and workers of the local government area to remain vigilant during the harmattan season. He urged them to take proactive measures to prevent fire outbreaks, which are prevalent during this period.

Speaking on Monday, December 2, during an interactive session with community leaders and staff, Hon. Oluwagbenga emphasized the importance of fire safety, urging citizens to switch off electrical appliances when leaving home. “Harmattan comes with its peculiar challenges, and we must not allow negligence to lead to avoidable disasters. Let us protect our lives and property by adhering to safety precautions,” he advised.

The chairman also highlighted the psychological and financial toll of fire disasters, calling on residents to remain conscious of their surroundings and act responsibly. “A single fire incident can wipe out what you’ve worked for your entire life. We must prioritize safety and ensure our environment is secure at all times,” he added.

In response, community leaders in attendance commended the chairman’s timely message, promising to cascade the information to their subjects. “We will take this message back to our communities and sensitize our people on the dangers of harmattan fires. Prevention is better than cure,” one of the leaders remarked.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) in Irepodun/Ifelodun, Comrade Aina Olawole-Festus, expressed gratitude for the chairman's fatherly role and proactive leadership. “Since his assumption of office, Hon. Oluwagbenga has been a beacon of guidance and support. His advice today is another demonstration of his dedication to the welfare of workers and citizens alike,” Comrade Aina stated.

Prince Oladimeji Adegoke, the Head of Local Administration (HLA), also encouraged staff to heed the chairman’s advice. “We must not let carelessness destroy what we’ve worked so hard to build. Adopting these safety measures is not just wise but necessary,” he emphasized.

The session, which was part of the monthly interaction with citizens and staff, also served as an opportunity for the local government leadership to foster better communication and collaboration with the workforce and community stakeholders.

As the harmattan season intensifies, the message from Hon. Oluwagbenga serves as a crucial reminder to all to prioritize safety and remain vigilant to avoid preventable tragedies.

Reported by:

Asubiojo G.O

Department of Information and Civic Orientation

You’re assets not burden to society, Gov Oyebanji tells PWDs.

You’re  assets not burden to society, Gov Oyebanji tells PWDs.

.…presents over 200 supporting materials at International Day of PWD.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has assured People Living with Disabilities (PWD) in the state that his administration does not see them as burden to the society but as assets- responsible and determined people who can reshape the narratives in their respective communities.

The Governor also supported the PWDs with over 200 assisting devices, including wheelchairs, white canes, among others as they marked the 2024 International Day of People Living with Disabilities at the Jibowu Hall, Government House Ground, Ado Ekiti on Tuesday.   

 

Speaking at the event, Governor Oyebanji said the action, attitude, and determination of the PWDs are potent tools, hence the need for them to embrace the responsibility of being active participants in community development. 

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro, at the event, Governor Oyebanji said his administration remained strongly committed to promoting acceptance and support among all citizens. He urged the PWDs to lead by demonstrating the change they would like to see in their communities.

The Governor challenged them to relentlessly pursue their dreams and aspirations and contribute meaningfully to the development of the society.

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While assuring them that his administration would continue to be intentional about implementing policies and programmes  that promote inclusion, acceptability, and opportunities for everyone, the Governor urged them to challenge stereotype, breakdown barriers, advocate for their rights, and seek collaboration with others in the community to foster love, acceptance, and an understanding that diversity strengthens society.

“it is an honour to stand before you today as we celebrate the International Day of People with Disabilities. This year's theme, "Amplifying the Leadership of Persons with Disabilities for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future," resonates deeply with our vision for Ekiti State. In this vision, everyone, regardless of their abilities, can contribute to our society and thrive.

“As your government, we are committed to creating an environment that values and supports you. We are intentional about implementing policies that promote inclusion, accessibility, and opportunities for everyone.

“I urge you to strive to be active participants in community building. You are not burdens; you are assets. By engaging proactively, you enhance your own lives and enrich the lives of those around you. Your voices matter, and your actions can transform perceptions. You have the power to challenge stereotypes and break down barriers. Every time you showcase your skills, intelligence, and resilience, you shape how others see you and, by extension, all people with disabilities”. The Governor asserted

Earlier in her opening remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Mrs Adetoun Agboola, expressed her deep appreciation to the Governor for his commitment to supporting the PWD community by creating inclusive environments which has brought about implementation of various programmes aimed at enhancing accessibility.

Highlighting the government’s significant contribution to the PWD community, Mrs Agboola noted that the administration has established inclusive environments, facilitate skills training, and introduced programs to enhance accessibility and promote equal opportunities for PWDs. 

She added that the state government’s positive attitude to the welfare and wellbeing of the PWDs as well as the huge investment in their education and human capital development have impacted positively on the PWDs community in the state. 

The Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in the State, Mr Sesan Aina, commended the Governor for creating an enabling environment for PWDs and also highlighted various welfare initiatives provided by the state government to improve the lives of persons with disabilities.

He highlighted various intervention of the government to include, scholarship payments for Persons with Disabilities in higher institutions, payment of WAEC and NECO registration fees for students with Disabilities, renovation of special schools, transforming them into model institutions, provision of modern infrastructure for special schools and the Office of Disabilities Affairs, recruitment of additional teaching and non-teaching staff in special schools, establishment of a therapy center for children with disabilities, among others.

Highlights of the colourful event  include drama sketches, cultural dance, and diverse presentations by students of thr three Special Schools in the state and various PWD clusters. Also, awards were presented to members of the public who are supportive of the PWDs community as well the best teachers and administrators in the special schools.

Present at the event were members of the state executive council, top government functionaries, traditional rulers, council chairmen and the general public.

Tax Reform Bills: Ekiti NASS Caucus Mobilises Stakeholder Support, Commends Tinubu Administration’s Economic Reforms.

Tax Reform Bills: Ekiti NASS Caucus Mobilises Stakeholder Support, Commends Tinubu Administration’s Economic Reforms.

The Ekiti State Caucus in the National Assembly has followed with keen interest the ongoing deliberations surrounding the four landmark tax reform bills currently before the National Assembly.

The proposed legislations - the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, 2024; Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, 2024; Joint Revenue Board of Nigeria (Establishment) Bill, 2024; and Nigeria Tax Bill, 2024 - represent a visionary effort to modernise Nigeria’s fiscal framework.

These reforms are a testament to the bold and transformative agenda of H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, which has prioritised economic growth, inclusivity, and national prosperity.

In a historic move, the Ekiti State Caucus is proud to be the first State Caucus in the National Assembly to unanimously endorse these critical tax reform bills. Under the leadership of Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, the Caucus has actively participated in consultations and engagements across both Chambers of the National Assembly and remains fully committed to ensuring the passage of these bills in both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

These bills aim to strengthen Nigeria’s revenue generation system, ensuring sustainable funding for critical sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social welfare.

The caucus has engaged extensively with stakeholders in the state, including the H.E. Governor Biodun Oyebanji - led state government, and determined that for Ekiti State, and indeed all states, these reforms are tangible steps that will improve the quality of life for our citizens. Additionally, these reforms will simplify the tax system, foster local entrepreneurship, attract investment, and create employment opportunities, driving economic growth across the state and the nation.

The establishment of the Tax Appeal Tribunal and the Office of the Tax Ombudsman will further entrench transparency, accountability, and fairness in tax administration, protecting taxpayers’ rights and fostering trust in the system.

While dissenting voices have emerged, as is expected in any vibrant democracy, we are confident that the compelling merits of these reforms will secure their eventual passage. The Ekiti State Caucus encourages constructive debates, recognising that such discussions enrich our democratic processes.

We also call on all stakeholders, including state governments, private sector leaders, civil society, and citizens, to support these transformative bills. Their success is not only a win for the Tinubu administration but also a critical step toward building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.

As representatives of Ekiti State, we remain resolute in our support for initiatives that prioritise economic growth and enhance the welfare of our people. These reforms underscore our collective commitment to a better future, and we urge all Nigerians to embrace this bold step toward national development.

Signed:

1. *Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, CON*, Senator, Ekiti Central Senatorial District

2. *Senator Yemi Adaramodu*, Senator, Ekiti South Senatorial District

3. *Senator Cyril Fasuyi*, Senator, Ekiti North Senatorial District

4. *Rep. Olufemi Richard Bamisile*, Member Representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency II

5. *Rep. Olusola Steve Fatoba*, Member Representing Ado/Irepodun-Ifelodun Federal Constituency

6. *Rep. Biodun Emmanuel Omoleye*, Member Representing Ekiti North Federal Constituency II (Ido-Osi/Moba/Ilejemeje)

7. *Rep. Rufus Sunday Ojuawo*, Member Representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I

8. *Rep. Akinlayo Davidson Kolawole*, Member Representing Ekiti Ijero/Efon/Ekiti West Federal Constituency,

9. *Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr.*, Member Representing Ekiti North Federal Constituency I (Ikole/Oye

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Ex- NBA President Olanipekun, Senator Musa hail Oyebanji as model of leadership.

Ex- NBA President Olanipekun, Senator Musa hail Oyebanji as model of leadership.

A former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), and Chairman, Senate Committee on Finance, Senator Mohamed Sanni Musa, have described Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji as one Nigerian Governor that has achieved true consensus across all segments of the society.

 

The two leaders stated this in Ikere- Ekiti on Saturday during the 28th edition of the annual Wole Olanipekun Foundation scholarship scheme and empowerment programme. 

Chief Olanipekun who is the founder of the Wole Olanipekun Foundation, hailed Governor Oyebanji for fostering unity across political, cultural, and social divides in the state, which according to him, is a rare example of harmony and collective purpose in governance.

While emphasizing that the Governor’s administration enjoys backing of various political tendencies, traditional rulers, civil society groups, civil servants, artisans and other critical stakeholders, the legal luminary noted that this broad-base support is as a result of the Governor’s humility and inclusive approach to governance.

He maintained that Ekiti now has a Governor who has bridged divides and built a consensus that remained unmatched anywhere in the country.

Intimating the chairman of the occasion with the sterling performance of the Governor, Chief Olanipekun said: “Senator, you are a member of APC, hear what we are saying about the Governor, you know me, I have being your lawyer, am not the Governor’s lawyer, you have being my client, the Governor has not being my client, I did not give this gentle man anything, but he has chosen  to respect elders. Two days ago, the Minister of Education said he is the best Governor in Nigeria, he is a good man and this is perhaps  the only Governor in Nigeria today where we have what is called consensus among all the cross sections of the society.”

Speaking further, Chief Olanipekun said  the empowerment programme  was his way of giving back to the society and uplifting those in need which reflect his belief in sharing blessings with others.

While urging those in privileged positions to embrace service to humanity as a pathway to divine fulfillment, the legal icon charged the beneficiaries to maximize the opportunity provided by the empowerment programmes , not only for their personal growth but also become a blessing to their community.

Validating Chief Olanipekun’s stance on Governor Oyebanji’s exceptional leadership qualities ,the Chairman Senate Committee on Finance, Sen  Mohamed Sanni Musa described the Governor as a blessing not just to Ekiti alone but the country at large.

The senator hailed the Governor for his exemplary leadership, which has garnered admiration both within and beyond Ekiti State.  Describing his humility as a rare and essential quality in leadership, Senator Musa also noted that Governor Oyebanji’s ability to connect easily with the people had earned him widespread respect.

“Governor Oyebanji is one Governor that God has blessed the state with, it is not only the people of the state that see him as a beacon of hope, in Nigeria we also see him the same way. His humility and commitment to the sovereignty of Nigeria not only Ekiti State is something that is highly commendable”. The Senator said.

Governor Oyebanji, in his remarks, described Chief Olanipekun as a legend and a blessing not only to Ekiti people but to humanity.

While describing Olanipekun as a pillar of support for the state and a beacon of hope for the younger generation and a leader  who derive joy in putting smiles on the faces of the downtrodden, the Governor said the foundation has given scholarship to over 3,019 students across the country empowered 500 aged and widows as well as 550 youth in entrepreneurship. 

Reiterating his administration’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote development and empower the people, Governor Oyebanji urged other privileged Nigerians to emulate Olanipekun’s spirit of service and dedication to humanity.

“You are a gift not only to Ikere, not to Ekiti State alone, not to Nigeria but to humanity. Thank you for being a selfless leader, thank you for your love for your people and thank you for always identifying with them” .

 

“What Chief is doing in Ikere, Ekiti State, Nigeria, and Globally speaks to a man that loves God. A man that wants to share his blessings with the less privileged and I commend him and his family for the support”. The Governor said.

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)