Imperative of Unity Amongst Our Progressives Leadership in Ensuring Political Stability Through Continuity in Ekiti State.

Imperative of Unity Amongst Our Progressives Leadership in Ensuring Political Stability Through Continuity in Ekiti State.

The Oyebanji Street Vanguard (_OSV_), an independent civil society orgnisation has once again commended the leadership of the All Progressives Congress in Ekiti State under the leadership of Governor Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji, the grand patron of the party in the State, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo - the first executive Governor of the State, the patron of the progressive camp in the State - His Excellency Dr. John Kayode Fayemi the immediate executive governor of the State,  the Senate Leader of the 10th National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria who happens to be the number 4 and the highest political ranking from the South West of this nation - Senator (Dr.) Michael Opeyemi Bamidele. The Speaker of the Ekiti State 7th Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aribasoye, the Acting State Chairman, Chief Elesin, and a host of others too numerous to mention. 

In a release signed by the Convener of _OSV_ yesterday, while enumerating the immediate priority of the group to be ensuring the success of all our congresses coming up soon, mobilisation and public enlightenment for all new eligible voters to register and transfer of voting points to Ekiti and vote for All Progressives Congress as soon as INEC registration and transfer portal is opened, the Convener commended the all-inclusive leadership style of Governor Abiodun Oyebanji in seeing himself as the Governor or everybody without segregation or _omo inu ogba, abi eyin ogba_. Progressives continuity is the catalyst for political and economic stability is the bedrock of economic rejuvenation, which all our political leaders should emulate all inclusivity of Governor Oyebanji's leadership. 

Finally, the Convener of  _OSV_ urged all our political leaders, from national to the ward levels to continue to close ranks, work closely in the direction of His Excellency Abiodun Oyebanji in ensuring that 2026 governorship election is a walk-over for us in ensuring economic and political stability for the growth of our dear State.

Signed:

Chief O. J. Adebayo 

On behalf of OSV

21/4/25

Senator Fasuyi urges Nigerians to show love and kindness to one another.

Senator Fasuyi urges Nigerians to show love and kindness to one another.

Senator Cyril Oluwole Fasuyi has urged Nigerians to show love and kindness to one another as we celebrate this year's Easter. 

The senator,  who is representing Ekiti North Senatorial District, made this known in his Easter message saying " I rejoice with our Christian brothers and sisters in Ekiti North senatorial district and Nigeria as a whole on the occasion of the celebration of this year's Easter."

According to him, " Easter is a time of reflection, reminding Christians of the promise of new life and hope that is offered through Jesus Christ.  It is a time to celebrate his victory over death and to look forward to eternal life ."

While acknowledging Easter as a period of renewal and promise of new life and hope, the distinguished senator urged all Nigerians to have confidence in our country and believe that Nigeria will be prosperous 

" Let's Imbibe the values of humility, patriotism  dedication,  sacrifice, perseverance, and discipline, as demonstrated by Jesus Christ during his surjourn here on earth," the Senator said.

While wishing all a happy Easter celebration, the distinguished senator said, " as we celebrate this season, let's do so in unity, love for our fellow man and woman, kindness, forgiveness, repentance  faith and compassion,  all of which are teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ "

My mum lived exemplary life of service, kindness, diligence - Gov Oyebanji.

My mum lived exemplary life of service, kindness, diligence - Gov Oyebanji.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has described his late mother as a woman who showed uncommon kindness and love to everyone around her, adding that she impacted many lives through her kindness, warmth and diligence. 

Governor Oyebanji stated this on Saturday at the First Baptist Church, Ikogosi Ekiti. during the 14th memorial service in honour of his late mother, Chief ( Mrs) Esther Oyebanji who died in 2011.

Speaking glowingly about his mother at a solemn event attended by his siblings, family members, associates, community leaders, traditional rulers and clerics, Governor Oyebanji said the event was organised only to remember his late mother, as well as express appreciation to God and Ikogosi people for their unflinching support for the family since the demise of the matriarch of the Oyebanji family.

The Governor, in a brief remarks during the service, also described his mother as an uncommon giver who lived her life for virtually everyone including family and non family members, adding that her frankness also endeared her to many people. 

The Governor noted that during her lifetime, his mother built her life around people, spending time in building a very extensive family, not just for people who are related to her by blood, but people whose lives she impacted. 

"What we are doing today is just a remembrance and we are thanking God and Ikogosi people for their steadfastness and support. Though, she is no longer with us, but you stood by us.

"There are two things about mummy: love for everyone. She takes care of everyone as her own children, when she was doing business, she never had profits because she took from her business all the time and gave to people.

"Mummy gave her life for us, she trecked many kilometres under the scorching sun to vote for my party during the Ribadu election, she was not a politician but she believed she must vote for her son's political party. She came back, fell sick and she never recovered from it. That's why we set up a foundation for her, just to keep her memory alive", the Governor stated.

In his homily, the President, Ekiti Baptist Conference, Rev'd (Dr) Emmanuel Aribasoye, urged everyone to live in full recognition that a day of judgement would come, stressing that it should be the preoccupation of man to invest his resources in propagating the works of God. Citing the late Abiyamo Oyebanji’s generosity, he added that the memories of the righteous will linger forever in the hearts of those who benefitted from it.

Rev Aribasoye said the  legacies people live behind will speak volumes about their lives when they depart, stressing that  everyone is expected to live life that will make positive impact on people around them.

Prayers were later offered for the children, family , the church and government of Ekiti state.

In her tribute, wife of the Governor, Dr. (Mrs) Olayemi Oyebanji expressed appreciation to God for the life of her mother-in- law, describing her as a hardworking woman who hustled day and night to achieve a good life for her children.

Reminiscing on his late wife, Pa Ezekiel Oyebanji thanked God for giving him a hardworking, cerebral and caring woman who loved and supported him immensely in the training of his children. Pa Oyebanji  encouraged the people to continue to serve and trust God, who he described as the only giver of life.

Presenting tributes on behalf of the children, Mrs Feyisike Oshowo said their mother loved her husband and the children so dearly. She described her as a kind and exceptional giver who will go the extra mile to give her best to people around her.

Fayemi Urges Compassion, Unity in Easter Message to Nigerians

Fayemi Urges Compassion, Unity in Easter Message to Nigerians.

Dr Kayode Fayemi, the immediate-past governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), has called on Nigerians to reflect on the message of Easter by being compassionate, helping one another and being Christ-like. 

In a message to mark the Easter celebrations issued by the Fayemi Media Office, Fayemi extended warm wishes to Nigerians, especially Christians, describing the season as a sacred time to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

“Easter is a reminder of the triumph of life over death, light over darkness, and hope over despair,” he said. “The sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross and His resurrection three days later is the foundation of the Christian faith and a powerful lesson in selflessness, love, and forgiveness.”

The former governor urged Nigerians to imbibe the virtues Easter represents by reaching out to one another in unity and kindness, rising above divisions, and working collectively to build a more just, peaceful, and prosperous society.

Acknowledging the difficult economic and political realities facing the country, Fayemi noted that the current challenges are testing the resilience and unity of the Nigerian people. However, he expressed confidence in the nation’s capacity to overcome.

“We are, no doubt, passing through challenging times. Economic hardship and political uncertainties continue to test our strength as a people,” he said. “But I remain hopeful. Nigeria is blessed with innovative minds and vast resources, and I believe we will emerge stronger from these trials.”

Fayemi encouraged Nigerians to hold fast to hope and support one another during this season and beyond, as the spirit of Easter reminds all that brighter days lie ahead.

Ojuawo Celebrates with Christians.

Ojuawo Celebrates with Christians.

Honorable (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, extends warm Easter greetings to his constituents, the people of Ekiti State, and all Nigerians.

In a statement, Hon. Ojuawo highlighted Easter's significance, urging Christians to embrace love and sacrifice as epitomised by death, burial and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. "Easter reminds us of the immense sacrifice made for humanity, embodying love, sacrifice, hope, peace, and perseverance," he said.

As a pastor, Hon. Ojuawo reiterated Jesus Christ's teaching, culminating in salvation, symbolizing victory over death, new life and liberation from sin.

Hon. Ojuawo prayed for the blessings of the risen Lord to embrace everyone, making them worthy partakers of His grace. He wishes everyone a joyous Easter!

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

GOV OYEBANJI GREETS CHRISTIANS AT EASTER.

GOV OYEBANJI GREETS CHRISTIANS AT EASTER.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated Christians in the state and Nigeria on the occasion of this year's Easter celebration. 

The Governor,  in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, said the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, which is the essence of Easter, is a special gift from God to mankind, which should always be cherished.

Oyebanji congratulated the Christian faithful on the commemoration of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ,  urging them to emulate Christ’s virtues of humility, perseverance and compassion.

He implored Ekiti residents and Nigerians in general, especially Christians to use the occasion of the Easter celebration to seek the face of God for continuous peace in the the  and in the country in general. 

The Governor urged the Christian faithful in the state to continue to live in peace and harmony with adherents of other religions, noting that good neighborliness, selflessness, and patience are among the lessons taught and exemplified by Jesus Christ.

Oyebanji used the occasion to appreciate the support of the Christian community in the state for their support for his administration noting that their prayers and cooperation have gone a long way in making the state record some

Significant achievements.

"I wish all the people of Ekiti State and Christians across the country and other parts of the world, a Happy Easter as we celebrate God's greatest sacrifice to mankind.

"Events leading to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ were epochal in the annals of Christianity and humanity. They remind us of his virtues of sacrifice, love, harmony and peaceful coexistence among humanity.

"As Christians, this period offers us an opportunity to rethink our relationships as individuals, as communities and as a nation. The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ typifies love, affection and tolerance. 

"I therefore urge Christians to emulate the virtues of Jesus Christ by positively impacting the lives of neighbours, colleagues, associates, neighbours and family members.", the Governor added.

2026, 2027 polls: Ekiti APC Caucus Endorses President Tinubu, Gov Oyebanji for re-election.

2026, 2027 polls: Ekiti APC Caucus Endorses President Tinubu, Gov Oyebanji for re-election.

Ekiti State Caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday, unanimously endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji for a second term in office, citing their exemplary leadership qualities and impactful policies as reason for their endorsement. 

The endorsement, which was passed at a special Caucus meeting of the state chapter of APC held at Iyin Ekiti, was attended by the first civilian Governor of the state, Otunba Niyi Adebayo and the immediate past Governor of the state Dr Kayode Fayemi, as well as the incumbent Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji. 

Also in attendance were the state Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Senator Yemi Adaramodu; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, former Deputy Governor, Prof Modupe Adelabu; serving and former members of the National and State Assembly, Party Chieftains, Among others. 

Speaking while moving the endorsement motion, which was ratified through a very loud voice vote, Senator Yemi Adaramodu (Ekiti South), commended President Tinubu for his decisive economic reforms that have revitalized the country’s economy as well as his comprehensive security strategies that have addressed the root cause of insecurity in the country within one and half years in office. 

He said for these reasons and several other positive outcomes, the President deserved to be supported for re-election in order to sustain the gains and ensure their long term effect.

Describing the President’s reforms as “transformational”, with profound impact on the socio-economic landscape, Senator Adaramodu said “I, on behalf of the National Assembly Caucus and as a true progressive member of our great party, APC, I move that we in Ekiti APC, want to adopt continuity, starting from our President, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that comes 2027, we are moving that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu should continue as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and that the Renew Hope Agenda shall continually be renewed”.

Addressing concerns over high-profile political alignments outside the APC, the Senator  insisted the party remains unshaken. “We are not worried. What do you expect politicians to do other than play politics? Whether through lies or propaganda, they have to try something.”

While moving the motion for the endorsement  of Governor Oyebanji for re- election, the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, said the Governor had  demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities characterised by his unwavering commitment to the welfare of Ekiti people and all round development of the state.

The Speaker praised the Governor for making the party highly acceptable to the people through his sterling performance, people-oriented policies and programs as well as consistently prioritizing the needs and aspirations of the citizens, thereby fostering trust and unity across the state.

The Speaker said “I, Hon Adeoye Aribasoye, rise to move a motion of utmost importance concerning the leadership of our great party, APC under the leadership of our dear Governor Biodun Oyebanji who has demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities characterised by integrity, dedication and deep commitment to the welfare and development of Ekiti and that his sterling performance has resulted in remarkable infrastructure development, enhance security, improved healthcare, education outcomes and the overall social economic growth of the state, I therefore move that this distinguished caucus of our great party APC, in Ekiti pass a vote of confidence in Governor Oyebanji, affirming our unwavering support for his leadership and vision for Ekiti. 

“Furthermore I move that this caucus endorse Governor Oyebanji to contest the forth coming 2026 gubernatorial election in Ekiti State”

Earlier in his welcome address, the State APC Chairman, Barr. Sola Elesin, who thanked Governor Oyebanji for making the party highly attractive and acceptable to all indigenes of the state through his remarkable developmental strides, maintained that  no town in the state was left out of various  government’s interventions which include infrastructure development, rural electrification, healthcare improvement, agric revolution, and youth empowerment, among others.

Also in his remarks, the immediate past Governor of the State, Dr Kayode Fayemi said “Generally speaking, I think we have a lot to thank God for and we must thank our Governor, everywhere we turn to its BAO, our leader and I do exchange notes regularly, when i was coming back to the country yesterday morning, I travelled with somebody from the Senate from London and he said thank you very much for the Governor. He said I went to Ekiti for Senator Bamidele's conferment of honourary degree, you need to extend Ekiti magic to the rest of the country to help us. This is all due to the way our Governor has conducted himself and how he conveyed his sense of humility and service to the party both at the national and the state levels, and that is why we are all gathered here to happily work together with him to accomplish the task of greater development for the people”. He said.

Responding, Governor Oyebanji expressed his gratitude to leaders of the party for their belief in his leadership acumen and also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and for creating a conducive environment that has allowed states to thrive through bold national policies and reforms.

“I stand here this afternoon to give glory to God for a day like this, my appreciation goes to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support for us in Ekiti, this support has been the enabler for everything we have been able to achieve in the state. 

“After him, I thank the father of the Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, I thank you for your support. I count myself lucky to have former Governor Adebayo and Dr Fayemi in my corner and I count it as a blessing for Ekiti State, not all states have leaders that are committed to the development of their state and the people”, the Governor asserted.

Addressing concerns over high-profile political alignments outside the APC, he insisted the party remains unshaken. “We are not worried. What do you expect politicians to do other than play politics? Whether through lies or propaganda, they have to try something.”

Otunba Niyi Adebayo, the first civilian Governor of Ekiti, stated that the caucus has made itself very clear: “We are all in support of the Governor contesting for another term.

“Everyone is pleased with the work he is doing, and we believe he should seek re-election. He has our full support as he continues his leadership journey.”

“Similarly, the caucus reiterated its support for the President, acknowledging the positive strides made under his administration.

"The President’s accomplishments have been well noted, and the caucus remains firm in its earlier position, urging him to also run for another term.” , he added.