Fayemi Mourns Pope Francis, Celebrates His Legacy of Compassion and Social Justice.

Fayemi Mourns Pope Francis, Celebrates His Legacy of Compassion and Social Justice.

Dr. Kayode Fayemi (CON), the immediate-past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF), has expressed profound sadness over the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis, describing it as "an irreplaceable loss to the global Catholic community and humanity at large."

In a statement issued by the Fayemi Media Office, the former governor, a devout Catholic, paid tribute to the late Pontiff's transformative leadership and commitment to social justice.

"It is with a heavy heart that I join millions of Catholics worldwide and people of goodwill across religious divides to mourn the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis, whose life exemplified Christ's teachings of love, compassion, and service to the least privileged amongst us," Fayemi stated.

The former governor reflected on Pope Francis' legacy, noting that the pontiff's humility and courage in addressing contemporary challenges had repositioned the Catholic Church as a leading voice for the marginalized.

Fayemi stated, "Pope Francis led the Church with humility and wisdom. His passionate advocacy for the poor, migrants, and environmental justice connected deeply with the faithful across Nigeria and Africa.

"As a Catholic and public servant, I found in Pope Francis a model of leadership that transcended religious boundaries. His emphasis on mercy and dialogue inspired many of us in public service to approach governance with greater empathy and attention to the vulnerable segments of society.”

The former NGF Chairman called on global leaders to honour the Pope's memory by recommitting to his vision of a more just, peaceful, and inclusive world.

"While we mourn his physical departure, we celebrate a life well-lived in service to God and humanity. May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may his powerful legacy continue to guide our collective journey toward a more compassionate global community," he concluded.

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.