Agbeyewa Farms Welcomes NYSC Corp Members.

Agbeyewa Farms Welcomes NYSC Corp Members.

In a groundbreaking moment, Agbeyewa Farms proudly welcomes 21 National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to its esteemed organization. This milestone not only expands the farm's workforce but also underscores Agbeyewa's dedication to empowering Nigeria's youth and driving agricultural transformation.

To ensure a seamless transition, Agbeyewa Farms sent a bus to the Ekiti orientation camp to convey the corp members to their new home. For the next 12 months, these young individuals will explore the farm, put in their skills and energy to the farm's operations.

In line with the company's tradition, the corp members will enjoy a comprehensive package, including:

- Free Accommodation: A comfortable and secure living environment.

- Upkeep allowance: A considerable monthly stipend as financial support while working with the organization.

- Automatic Employment Opportunity: A promising career path upon completing their service.

This initiative reaffirms Agbeyewa's position as a leading force in the Cassava Revolution, shaping the future of agribusiness. Beyond this, the company has also done, among other things:

- Revives the culture of agribusiness as a profession of pride, inspiring young Nigerians.

- Establishes Agbeyewa as the employer of choice for top agricultural talents.

- Enhances stakeholder engagement, gaining support from government bodies, investors, and local communities.

Attracting brightest and best talents: Agbeyewa farms has continued to inspire young Nigerians to see agriculture as a viable and prestigious career, not just participating in agribusiness but shaping future.

Watch the video to capture the inspiring journey of these corp members as they serve their fatherland.

INVESTIGATION: FUOYE VC, PROF. ABAYOMI SUNDAY FASINA, TARGETED IN ORCHESTRATED SMEAR CAMPAIGN.

INVESTIGATION: FUOYE VC, PROF. ABAYOMI SUNDAY FASINA, TARGETED IN ORCHESTRATED SMEAR CAMPAIGN.

By Democracy Watch News

After a thorough investigation into the recent allegations of sexual harassment leveled against the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Prof. Abayomi Sunday Fasina, Democracy Watch News can confirm that the claims are part of a well-coordinated character assassination attempt aimed at tarnishing his reputation.

Our independent inquiry, which involved speaking with university staff, security agencies, and key stakeholders, revealed a series of inconsistencies and falsehoods in the accusations. The evidence suggests that Prof. Fasina is not guilty of any misconduct but rather a victim of individuals intent on discrediting him for personal or political reasons.

BASELESS ALLEGATIONS FABRICATED TO DESTROY ACADEMIC LEADERSHIP

The original news report accused the FUOYE Vice-Chancellor of sexually harassing a female staff member, Mrs. Folasade Adebayo, and subsequently using the Department of State Services (DSS) to intimidate individuals in possession of alleged evidence against him. However, Democracy Watch News found no credible proof to support these claims.

1. Manipulated Audio Evidence: The so-called phone conversation allegedly proving Prof. Fasina’s guilt has not been authenticated. Experts in digital forensics confirmed that audio recordings can easily be altered, and without an independent forensic analysis, such evidence cannot be deemed credible.

2. No Official Complaints: Our findings show that Mrs. Adebayo has never filed any formal complaint of harassment with the university’s ethics committee or law enforcement. If such an incident had truly occurred, proper channels would have been followed rather than a sudden media scandal.

3. Contradictory Claims About DSS Involvement: Reports that DSS operatives invaded the residence of Dr. Yemi Agbeleoba, Mrs. Adebayo’s younger brother, and abducted him at gunpoint were also found to be false. Security sources confirmed that no such raid took place, and there is no record of DSS being deployed in connection with this case. The suggestion that Prof. Fasina has control over a federal security agency is both unrealistic and misleading.

A PATTERN OF SMEAR CAMPAIGNS AGAINST THE VICE-CHANCELLOR

Further investigations uncovered that this is not the first time Prof. Fasina has been a target of malicious attacks. Since assuming office as FUOYE’s Vice-Chancellor, he has introduced policies that have ruffled feathers among individuals who previously benefited from corrupt practices within the institution. These reforms, particularly in staff discipline and financial accountability, have earned him both praise and enemies.

Sources within the university hinted that some disgruntled elements, opposed to his leadership, may be behind this coordinated attack. Their aim is to discredit his administration, create chaos, and possibly force his resignation.

LEGAL ACTION LOOMS AS UNIVERSITY MANAGEMENT VOWS TO DEFEND ITS REPUTATION:

FUOYE’s management has strongly condemned the false allegations and warned that legal action will be taken against those responsible for spreading defamatory statements. A statement from the university reaffirmed its commitment to justice, transparency, and maintaining a professional work environment.

Prof. Fasina, in response, expressed confidence in the truth prevailing. "I have served this institution with integrity, and I will not be deterred by baseless accusations. This is an orchestrated attempt to smear my name, but the truth will always triumph over lies," he said.

Democracy Watch News urges the media and the public to approach such allegations with caution and a commitment to due process. False accusations not only damage reputations but also undermine genuine cases of harassment that require serious attention.

In an era where misinformation spreads rapidly, it is crucial to verify claims before jumping to conclusions. The case against Prof. Fasina is a reminder that not everything that trends online is true. Until proven otherwise by credible, independent authorities, these allegations remain nothing more than a desperate attempt at character assassination.

Democracy Watch News remains committed to investigative journalism and upholding the truth.

Ekiti First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, Imparts Knowledge to EKSU Students.

Ekiti First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, Imparts Knowledge to EKSU Students.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The First Lady of Ekiti State, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, made another impactful visit to Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, on Wednesday, where she delivered a lecture to students of the Department of Educational Management.

Dr. Oyebanji, an Associate Professor at the University of Ibadan, taught the EDM 303 course titled Leadership in Formal Organization to the 300-level students. Her lecture explored key leadership concepts, including Trait Theory, Behavioral Theory, and Situational Theory, among others.

According to a statement released by Bode Olofinmuagun, ANIPR, Deputy Registrar/Head of the Directorate of Information & Corporate Affairs, the session was met with excitement and enthusiasm as students listened attentively to the First Lady's scholarly presentation.

The statement also highlighted that over the past year, Dr. Oyebanji has consistently contributed meaningfully to the academic development of Ekiti State University students through her lectures and training. This, it noted, underscores her unwavering commitment to education and intellectual growth in the state.

Dr. Oyebanji's dedication to academic excellence continues to inspire both staff and students of the institution.

PROJECTS INSPECTION TURNS REFERENDUM OF ENDORSEMENT FOR OYEBANJI'S SECOND TERM.

The BAO Impact Series No. 12

PROJECTS INSPECTION TURNS REFERENDUM OF ENDORSEMENT FOR OYEBANJI'S SECOND TERM.

BY ODUNAYO OGUNMOLA

For greater part of this week, between Monday and Tuesday to be precise, Governor Biodun Oyebanji again hit the road for a working visit to ongoing projects most especially the ones domiciled in Ekiti North Senatorial District.

The tour, some of which dragged well into the nights, speaks to the Governor's resolve to ensure speedy completion of such projects for their timely delivery to their people in the grassroots for their benefit.

Everywhere he went, the reception accorded the Governor was unprecedented as the residents of the towns and communities concerned rolled out their drums, sang and danced on sighting the man of the people and his entourage.

The joy on the faces of the people was spontaneous and natural; reports had it that many of them had waited for hours and had turned their neighbourhoods and vicinities to carnivals in expression of their joy for what the administration led by the Governor has done and is still doing to make life easier for them.

The appreciative residents made up of traditional rulers, community leaders, elderly citizens, youths, women groups, market women and other interest groups expressed their desire to reward Governor Oyebanji with another term in office when the time comes.

They kept chanting "BAO! BAO!! BAO!!!" "BAO Lafe," meaning "We Want BAO to Remain in Office," "4 Plus 4," among others. The people in these towns said these with their mouths and they equally expressed same with the placards and miniature signposts they carried.

What was ordinarily a tour of projects was turned to a referendum for the endorsement of the Governor for a new term of four years in office for a man who is making the impact of good governance felt in the grassroots. 

This endorsement was not done on party basis; it was not made by leaders of Governor Oyebanji's political party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). This referendum of endorsement was done by the ordinary people on the streets, the real locals, the people living in the grassroots who are appreciating the good work of the Governor.

When people are happy, when people are delirious and when people are ecstatic, it is a feeling they cannot hide. That was the story from Are to Oye, Ilupeju to Igbo Egan, Itapa to Ifaki, Aaye to Ikun, it was an outburst of joy to welcome the Ekiti construction czar, Governor Oyebanji.

The dividends of the inspection visits are beneficial to all parties involved: they are beneficial to the host communities who will soon put them into use, beneficial to citizens working there, beneficial to the government which is monitoring them to have the full value for the money spent and beneficial to passersby and other Nigerians who will benefit from such projects.

The projects include the Ado Ekiti Ring Road Phase One (due for completion in July this year); Are-Oye Road, the inspection of which came with another bonus of granting the request of Are Community to connect the almost 1.5km lateritic road to the Ring Road; Ilupeju-Igbo Egan-Ayede Road and Iye-Olopomeji-Ikun Road.

The tour to the renovated hospitals was also a critical aspect of the tour which caught the attention of Mr Governor. Significant work has been done on the overhaul and major repair of nine General Hospitals which is complementing those of 11 General Hospitals done by the immediate past administration (another gain of continuity).

Those touched during the latest visit are Itapa/Ilupeju Hospital, Iye General Hospital, Ijesa Isu General Hospital and Ifaki General Hospital. What further thrilled the locals in the towns visited was that the ultramodern, state-of-the-art facilities the renovated hospitals have been equipped with which are expected to aid quality delivery of treatment and other services to the people.

Inadequate facilities at hospitals and health centres in the far-flung communities have been identified as part of the reasons why key health workers, especially doctors, don't stay there and why patients there are taken to hospitals in places like Ado and Ido. Such experiences would soon become things of the past.

The joy on the faces of medical personnel on ground could be seen because the new facilities in the hospitals would serve as motivation to give their best amidst an environment conducive to work efficiency. Governor Oyebanji recognizes the fact that motivating the health personnel boosts their service delivery and stands to benefit the patients in the long run.

The Governor's announcement of the readiness of his administration to employ more doctors, nurses and other health workers and the renovation of 103 Primary Health Centres have gladdened the hearts of stakeholders in the health sector and the general populace.

The road projects visited are also going on at appreciable level and the contractors themselves know they are under a solemn obligation to deliver quality projects and within the time limit given to them.

These projects will surely add value to the lives of the people of Ekiti State and they will have opportunities of celebrating big time on the days of they will be formally commisioned for their use.

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

Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort Partners with Ekiti State Government to Promote Adire Ekiti.

Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort Partners with Ekiti State Government to Promote Adire Ekiti.

In a move to boost cultural tourism in Ekiti State, Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center is partnering with the Ekiti State Government to promote Adire Ekiti, the state’s unique indigenous fabric.

During her visit to the resort, Her Excellency, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, First Lady of Ekiti State, emphasized the importance of integrating Adire into Ekiti’s tourism experience. “Every visitor to our beautiful state should have the opportunity to experience and appreciate the artistry of Adire Ekiti. This fabric is more than just clothing—it is our heritage, our identity, and a symbol of Ekiti’s creativity,” she said.

As a proud ambassador of Adire Ekiti, Dr. Oyebanji discussed ways to showcase the fabric at Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center, ensuring guests enjoy both the luxury of the resort and the cultural richness of Ekiti.

Expressing her admiration for the resort, she described it as “amazing, massive, and one of the best in the world,” applauding Mr. John Niyi Olajide, Chairman of Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort and Conference Center, for his commitment to elevating tourism in Ekiti.

Responding, Mr Olajide thanked the First Lady for her support to the resort, while praising her drive for promoting local culture and tourism: _“Ikogosi is more than just a resort—it’s a symbol of what’s possible when we invest in our heritage. By partnering with Her Excellency and the Ekiti State Government, we are creating a destination where visitors can enjoy nature’s wonders while experiencing the beauty of Adire Ekiti. This is about job creation, economic empowerment, and putting Ekiti on the global tourism map._

This partnership marks a significant step toward positioning Ekiti as a must-visit destination, blending nature, luxury, and culture. Guests can look forward to an immersive experience where world-class hospitality meets authentic local artistry.

EKSG to recruit more Doctors, Health workers.

EKSG to recruit more Doctors, Health workers.

…As Oyebanji begins statewide inspection of road, Hospital projects.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has disclosed plans by his administration to recruit more medical doctors and health workers for all general hospitals and basic health centres across the state with improved welfare package as a way of curbing shortage of medical personnel in government hospitals. 

The Governor also said his administration has made quality healthcare accessible, available, and affordable for the people of the state in a bid to ensure the wellbeing of the citizens, even as he disclosed that the government is also renovating one primary health centre in each of the 177 wards in the state. 

Governor Oyebanji, who stated these on Monday while inspecting road projects and comprehensive renovation of nine general hospitals in the state, said his government is collaborating with members of Ekiti Caucus of the National Assembly for the massive recruitment of doctors and other health workers for the state’s hospitals. 

The Governor said the National Assembly members, under the arrangement, will bear the cost of salaries and allowances of the newly recruited doctors and health workers for one year. 

He assured that the recruitment of doctors and health workers will commence soon, adding that all the general hospitals in the state would have full compliment of medical professionals before the end of the year. 

This, he said, will help stem the tide of shortage of medical personnel particularly doctors and nurses in health facilities in the State, and ensure effective utilization of the modern equipment and facilities being put in place by the government. 

The Governor urged residents of three state to make use of the newly renovated hospitals in order to justify Government’s huge investment in the health sector. 

Reiterating the commitment of his administration to the provision of quality and accessible healthcare services for Ekiti people, Governor Oyebanji said he is happy that the people of the state are now enjoying dividends of democracy as a reward for the trust reposed in him through their votes. 

He noted that the transformation in the healthcare sector is part of his administration’s commitment to improving the quality of life of Ekiti residents, stressing that the ongoing renovation and equipment of nine General Hospitals and furnishing them with modern medical equipment are aimed at enhancing delivery of quality healthcare services in the state.

He added that his government will not only renovate the nine secondary health facilities but would also equip them with state-of-the-art facilities to meet global standard. 

The Governor maintained that the transformation of the health facilities is one of the gains of continuity in government as his predecessor, Dr Kayode Fayemi had renovated 11 General Hospitals before leaving office in 2022.

He expressed joy that the people of the state are now enjoying more dividends of democracy as the reward for the trust reposed in him through their votes.

The Governor who also inspected some road projects being constructed through the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing (RAAMP), expressed satisfaction on the quality of work done. 

He explained that over 1000 kilometers rural access road is  being constructed across the state, through the RAAMP. 

“We signed a contract with Ekiti people the day they came out to vote for us and there are certain expectations from the government. So what we are seeing today is a result of two years of hard work, planning, and two years of weightlifting. As a state, we are punching above our weight and it all speaks to the gains of continuity. we have 22 General hospitals in the state. 

“Governor Fayemi renovated 11 before he left and we are currently doing nine and we are not only renovating them, we are equipping simultaneously and out of that nine, four are already completed”.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Oyebanji Filani,  commended the Governor for his commitment to the health sector. He noted that the Governor’s dedication to making healthcare accessible, affordable, and available has brought about significant improvements in the state’s healthcare delivery.

The Commissioner further urged the people to take full advantage of the improved healthcare service by visiting the renovated hospitals for their medical needs. 

He emphasized that Government’s investment is geared toward improving the quality of life for all residents.

In their separate remarks, the traditional rulers of the benefiting communities, the Alare of Are Ekiti, Oba Boluwade Adebiyi, Oloye of Oye Ekiti, Oba Oluwole Ademolaju, Apeju of Ilupeju Ekiti, Oba Sunday Awe, Oniye of Iye Ekiti, Oba Jonathan Oni, and Onifaki of Ifaki Ekiti, Oba John Adegbenro all expressed their appreciation to the Governor for the visible improvement in all the critical sectors of the state

While commending the Governor for prioritizing the welfare of the people through several initiatives, the traditional rulers described the transformation and massive development in the state as unprecedented.

Part of the project inspected include, Are-Oye road, Ilupeju – Igbo Egan – Ayede road, Iye – Olopomeji – Ikun road, Iye, Ifaki, and Itapa – Ilupeju General Hospital, Ijesa - Isu General Hospital and Ijan General Hospital, among others.

A Milestone of Quiet Achievement: Celebrating Dr. Kayode Fayemi at 60.

A Milestone of Quiet Achievement: Celebrating Dr. Kayode Fayemi at 60.

On this notable date, February 9, we mark the 60th birthday of Dr. John Folorunsho Kayode Fayemi, an exemplary figure in the landscape of Nigerian politics. While many states have witnessed successors embroiled in discord with their predecessors–from Abia to Kano, Osun and the current saga in Rivers State–Fayemi has cultivated a legacy of peace and continuity in Ekiti State. His successor, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, stands as a testament to the ideals and vision that Fayemi espoused, steering the state towards progress and stability.

Despite facing criticism and detractors who allege a lack of tangible accomplishments, the essence of Fayemi's success is embodied in the thriving governance witnessed in Ekiti today. I’ve often countered these critiques by redirecting the conversation to the impressive advancement under Governor BAO, acknowledging that ultimately, a great successor is a defining legacy.

Reflecting on Fayemi's achievements reveals a tapestry of transformative projects that have redefined infrastructures in Ekiti State:

●The Ekiti State International Agro Cargo Airport: Often at the center of discussions, this airport has now been recognized for its impressive infrastructure, boasting the fourth-longest runway in Nigeria at 3.2 km, suitable for large aircraft. The airport's opening signifies a new chapter for Ekiti, enhancing its connectivity and economic potential.

●New Iyin Road: A project that has long been awaited since its initial proposal in 1978, Fayemi’s completion of this 8 km dual carriageway has significantly improved transport safety and efficiency, drawing gratitude from commuters from neighboring states who once battled the treacherous old road.

●Obafemi Awolowo Civic Centre: Once a remnant of a prison, this revamped civic center stands as a hub for community engagement and cultural activities, reflecting Fayemi's vision of transformation and his respect for Yoruba heritage through its naming.

●Oba Rufus Adejugbe General Hospital Complex: This state-of-the-art medical facility, initiated during Fayemi's first term, embodies his commitment to healthcare. The hospital not only addresses pressing health needs but also served as a vital treatment center during the COVID-19 pandemic, illustrating the foresight in its planning.

●Ado-Ekiti Ultra Modern Bus Terminal: Committed to enhancing urban infrastructure, the terminal, although completed by his successor, was initiated under Fayemi’s administration. It has revitalized transport logistics and business activities in Ado-Ekiti, benefiting citizens and visitors alike.

●Ekiti Kete Pavilion: This grand venue has become a focal point for state events and gatherings, serving both functionally and symbolically as a hub for camaraderie and celebration in Ekiti's cultural calendar.

●Oke Ayooba Government House: Fayemi’s construction of a modern government house has changed the narrative of governance in Ekiti, establishing a prestigious residence for the sitting governor and dignitaries, an essential ingredient for any growing state.

●Educational Initiatives: Fayemi's bold moves to enhance educational opportunities include the establishment of the Ekiti State Polytechnic and revival of the Army Command Secondary School. Both institutions are set to shape the leaders of tomorrow, providing critical skills and training.

In addition to these projects, Dr. Fayemi’s most significant achievement lies in his capacity to nurture talent and endorse continuity in governance. His successor, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has not only continued but enhanced various initiatives launched during Fayemi’s tenure, demonstrating the fruits of a robust mentorship.

As we celebrate Dr. Kayode Fayemi at 60, it is clear that his dedication to the progress of Ekiti State extends beyond his years in office. His recent commitment to supporting Governor Oyebanji’s administration until 2030 solidifies his desire for a sustained trajectory of growth and development for the state. A true leader does not merely seek personal accolades but strives to build a legacy that others can uphold and further.

Today, we recognize not just a man but a movement—a movement grounded in peaceful succession, infrastructural development, human capital empowerment, and sustainability. In a world often filled with noise, Dr. Fayemi’s quiet, impactful achievements speak volumes.

Happy 60th birthday, My Mentor , My Benefactor, My Father and My Leader Dr. John Kayode Fayemi! The legacy you’ve created is one that will resonate for generations to come.

Gabriel Adesoji (AngelGabby)

Fayemi's Mentee

S.A New Media to Ekiti State Governor.