OYEBANJI MOURNS DEATH OF AFENIFERE LEADER, ADEBANJO.

OYEBANJI MOURNS DEATH OF AFENIFERE LEADER, ADEBANJO. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed his condolences on the death of a frontline leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, Chief Ayo Adebanjo.

Chief Adebanjo passed on early Friday, aged 96 years old. 

Governor Oyebanji in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the late Chief Adebanjo as a committed nationalist and one of the first generation Awoists that laboured for the nation's independence.

The Governor described the late Chief Adebanjo as a complete democrat, a fighter of bad governance and an advocate of  true federalism in the Nigerian federation.

Governor Oyebanji noted that the late Chief Adebanjo was a consistent champion of the ideals of his leader, the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo till he breathed his last.

According to him, the deceased played politics with decency as a committed member and chieftain of the Action Group (AG), Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) and Alliance for Democracy (AD).

The Governor recalled the noble roles played by the departed nonegenarian alongside other pro-democracy activists like the late Chief Abraham Adesanya, the Chief Olanihun Ajayi, the late Chief Anthony Enahoro, the late Chief Alfred Rewane and other heroes too numerous to mention in ensuring the return of democracy in 1999.

He further credited the Chief Adebanjo with using the platform of Afenifere to speak truth to power and offer useful counsel and alternative options on how to have a stronger democracy and a more prosperous Nigeria.

Governor Oyebanji prayed God to grant the immediate family, friends and associates of the deceased, the government and people of Ogun State, his home state, the fortitude to bear the monumental loss.

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I extend condolences to the immediate family member of our late leader, Chief Adebanjo and the leadership of Afenifere on this great loss and pray that Gid grant our departed leader eternal rest “, the statement added

Philanthropist Engr. Bayo Ajayi Donates 1,000 Customized Exercise Books for Children with Disabilities in Ekiti State.

Philanthropist Engr. Bayo Ajayi Donates 1,000 Customized Exercise Books for Children with Disabilities in Ekiti State.

Prominent philanthropist and politician, Engr. Bayo Ajayi, donated 1,000 specially designed exercise books to support children with disabilities in Ekiti State during an event in Ado Ekiti. This initiative underscores the importance of tailored educational resources for inclusive learning, aligning with Governor Biodun Oyebanji's efforts to enhance the well-being of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

Ajayi’s donation reflects his commitment to annual support for the Ekiti State Children’s Therapy Centre and is a fulfillment of last year's promise to assist PWDs in the region. The uniquely designed exercise books accommodate the specific needs of these children, promoting inclusivity in education.

Princess Adetoun Agboola, Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, commended the gesture, highlighting it as “a testament to the care and specificity required when addressing the needs of these remarkable children.”

In his speech, Ajayi emphasized the importance of investing in underserved communities, stating, “Nation-building goes beyond physical infrastructure; it’s about empowering people, especially those often overlooked.” He called on citizens to rally together in support of the governor’s vision for a more inclusive Ekiti.

Inclusion is expensive, but the Government of Ekiti State is doing much. However, other well-meaning members of the community are encouraged to support these initiatives through their donations and advocacy.

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.