Endorsements Are Not Empty Applause: The Political Validity of Governor Oyebanji’s Widespread Acceptance.

Endorsements Are Not Empty Applause: The Political Validity of Governor Oyebanji’s Widespread Acceptance.

In the rich theatre of Nigerian politics, endorsements are never accidental. They are not handouts. They are earned. They are the consequential echoes of tangible leadership, a vote of confidence from the people — and, in the case of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) of Ekiti State, they are the moral, political, and developmental validations of a governor whose stewardship is deeply rooted in performance, purpose, and providence.

The narrative peddled by cynics that massive endorsements signify desperation or mask underperformance is not only intellectually lazy, but also politically mischievous. Across the globe, in every functioning democracy, endorsements are a time-honoured tradition — a political testimony of approval. From the working farmer in Irepodun to the seasoned academic in Ado-Ekiti, from the youths in Oye-Ekiti to the Women in Ikere, from civil servants to religious leaders, the chorus in Ekiti is clear: Governor Oyebanji is not only delivering results; he is embodying the very essence of purposeful governance.

To be endorsed across party lines, by both elders and youths, men and women, royal fathers and grassroots influencers, is not a routine occurrence. It is a historic political consensus. It is a social alignment of gratitude and belief. Such endorsement cannot be manipulated — it is the organic outcome of effective governance. The governor’s humility, accessibility, competence, and compassion are resonating deeply with the people, and they are responding with their voices, their votes, and their visible support.

To argue that such outpouring of approval is negative is to deny the very foundation of democracy. If a leader is vilified when rejected and then still condemned when accepted, then critics are no longer engaging in politics — they are performing personal bitterness. But truth, like light, cannot be hidden. Ekiti people are not fools. They are deliberate, informed, and proud of their heritage. They know a good thing when they see one. And in BAO, they see vision, stability, prudence, results, and a rare humanity in leadership.

Development is not noise; it is seen in road networks, water supply, educational reforms, healthcare delivery, civil service reforms, peace and security, and respect for traditional institutions. On every index, BAO is raising the bar. What he lacks in showmanship, he compensates with substance. What he avoids in political drama, he delivers in policy depth. He governs with a calm hand, a deep mind, and a spiritual heart — favored by God and endorsed by men.

Those who say “wait, it’s too early to endorse” forget that performance is not a thing to be hidden until the eve of elections. Excellence demands applause in real-time. And those chasing shadows in the name of 2026 should understand that leadership is not a game of entitlement. Ekiti people have chosen to walk with a man they trust. They are not waiting to be swayed by empty promises or sectional pressure. Their loyalty is earned — not imposed. Their love for BAO is built on experience — not experiment.

Let it be said with clarity: this is not about silencing ambition; it is about acknowledging excellence. Political ambition is not a crime, but ambition without patience, and without respect for performance and the collective will of the people, is dangerous. To every naysayer: relax. The sun will shine on you — but not today. Wait until after 2030. For now, Ekiti is basking in the golden hour of a governor who represents the highest aspirations of her people.

Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is not perfect — no leader is. But he is sincere, he is strategic, and he is succeeding. And in this season, Ekiti is favored to have him. This wave of endorsement is not noise. It is history in motion. It is democracy affirming its choice. It is performance attracting applause.

So let the governor lead, and let the critics reflect. Let Ekiti continue to rise under the steady hands of a man truly ordained for a time like this.

BAO TILL 2030

Folorunso S. ALUKO – writes from Oye-Ekiti.

Ekiti Govt Approves Esun Community’s Request to Elect New Monarch.

Ekiti Govt Approves Esun Community’s Request to Elect New Monarch.

...Recognizes three ruling houses.

The Ekiti State Government has approved the process being undertaken by kingmakers to select a new Elesun of Esun Ekiti in Ikole Local Government Area of the State to fill the vacant royal stool.

The government also ratified the decision of the town to pick the candidate from Atiba Ruling House, instead of Iloda, that had unilaterally and consistently produced the Elesun for over 200 years.

The stool became vacant sequel to the demise of Oba Babatunde Ogunsakin, who was one of the two kings that were killed by gunmen along Ipao-Oke Ako-Irele road in 2024.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief Mrs. Monisade Christianah Afuye gave the approval on Tuesday while presiding over a petition written by one Ireti Omojola on behalf of Iloda Ruling House, protesting that only the ruling house can produce Elesun.

Mrs Afuye, via a statement signed by her Special Assistant on Media, Olakiitan Victor Ogunje, countered the position canvassed by the petitioner, saying the Chieftaincy Declarations recognised Atiba, Iloda and Ejisun Ruling Houses as three royal dynasties that can produce Elesun in the town.

Mrs Afuye posited that the combined effects of the Appeal Court Judgement delivered on 14th April, 2025, that nullified the judgement of the State High Court appropriating sole right to Iloda Ruling House to produce Elesun and the outcome of the Justice Aladejana Chieftaincy Review Commission, had invalidated the petitioner’s argument.

Mrs Afuye appealed to the community to allow peace in the community in tandem with the political philosophy of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, that only a serene and tranquil environment can witness development.

“We should allow the selection process to continue, nobody must cause any violence. We have been given the go- ahead and all the stakeholders involved should follow the normal traditions and customs expected to be undergone. Government has no vested interest in the throne.

“The petitioner has gone to challenge the government at the Supreme Court, let us wait for the outcome. But for now, we have no legal obstruction that can disallow us from continuing with the selection process. Esun Ekiti must move forward, you are one family.

“Let Atiba Ruling House that you have all agreed with to produce the new Elesun”, she declared.

Speaking further on the issue, the Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Hon. Ojo Atibioke, added that Chieftaincy Declarations of each town remains the working bible and official framework being used to appoint traditional rulers, saying the government won’t deviate from this practice.

Atibioke stated that there was available evidence to substantiate the fact that the late monarchs, Oba Samuel Omojola and Oba Babatunde Ogunsakin consented to the inclusion of Ejisun and Atiba to be part of the Ruling houses in the community.

The Commissioner said the government is neither poised nor interested in trampling on the rights of anyone, saying they are only following procedure laid down by law.

However, speaking to the petition on behalf of Iloda Ruling House, Mr. Ireti Omojola, insisted that the first Elesun chieftaincy declarations of 1957 and Justice Oluwole Chieftaincy Review Commission of 1982 under Ondo State, vividly precluded Ejisun and Atiba from being enlisted as part of the royal dynasty.

Omojola stated that the State High Court presided over by Justice Dele Omotoso also nullified the inclusion of the two ruling houses in the chieftaincy declaration and affirmed that only Iloda should be recognised.

The Prince maintained that “the court in its judgement ruled that by practice, history, native law, customs and traditions, Ejisun and Atiba are not recognised as ruling houses in Esun Ekiti. How then can they produce a king?

“We felt cheated by their inclusion in Elesun Chieftaincy Declarations and that was why we filed this petition. We have also appealed to the Supreme Court over the dismissal of our case by the Appeal Court.”

Cavista Holdings Champions Job Creation at Ekiti Labour Market Information System Dialogue.

Cavista Holdings Champions Job Creation at Ekiti Labour Market Information System Dialogue.

I had the honour of representing Cavista Holdings Limited, owners of Agbeyewa Farms and operators of the Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort and Conference Center, at the Ekiti State Government's Public-Private Dialogue on the Labour Market Information System (LMIS). This high-level session, organized by the Ministry of Wealth Creation & Employment, brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to explore ways to leverage data-driven insights for bridging the gap between skills, employment, and enterprise development.

As a proud contributor to Ekiti's economic growth, I reiterated Cavista Holdings' commitment to creating jobs and driving prosperity in the state. In line with our Chairman's vision, our portfolio investments in Ekiti are dedicated to creating employment opportunities. I emphasized that Cavista Holdings and its portfolio businesses are in Ekiti for three primary purposes: to create jobs, to create more jobs, and to create even more jobs. By aligning our efforts with the state's goals, we aim to make a lasting impact on the lives of Ekiti residents and contribute to the state's inclusive growth.

This dialogue underscores the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving economic development. I'm confident that initiatives like the Ekiti LMIS will play a crucial role in shaping the state's labour market and empowering its workforce. As a key player in Ekiti's economy, Cavista Holdings is committed to working closely with the state government to achieve our shared objectives and build a brighter future for the people of Ekiti.

Dauda Lawal 

Director of Community Engagement 

Agbeyewa Farms.

Ojuawo has commenced grading of constituency roads

Ojuawo has commenced grading of constituency roads.

Hon (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1, has initiated the grading of constituency township roads to improve accessibility and alleviate residents’ suffering.

The project which began last week, covers key areas such as:

- Ogo Oluwa Community located behind Onward House Oke Osun, Ikere Ekiti.

- Road behind   Jimoh Block Oke Osun in Ikere Ekiti

- Omolaere farm road, Orun Ekiti.

- Niyi Adebayo Street, Orun Ekiti.

- Okondo Street Orun Ekiti

- Odo Omoba Street Ise Ekiti

- Shasha Market Road, Oke Opa Ikere Ekiti

Hon Ojuawo emphasized his commitment to grassroots development, stating, “Infrastructure is crucial to the survival of people at the grassroots. We must constantly identify areas for intervention and support Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s developmental initiatives.”

 

In appreciation, Hon Olu Adamolekun, The Chairman of Ikere local government thanked Hon Ojuawo for his timely intervention, noting the impact on residents’ livelihoods. The project is ongoing and open to other areas needing improvement within the constituency.”

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

OJUAWO, OLONIYO LEAD TEAM TO INSPECT PROPOSED EKITI AIR FORCE HOUSING SCHEME.

OJUAWO, OLONIYO LEAD TEAM TO INSPECT PROPOSED EKITI AIR FORCE HOUSING SCHEME.

Honourable (AVM Rtd) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 1,  Dr. Gboyega Oloniyo, Special Adviser to Ekiti State Governor on Housing, led Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Ibrahim, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Air Force Housing Management, and his team to inspect a parcel of land earmarked for a housing estate project at the Ekiti State Agro Allied International Airport in Ado Ekiti.

The inspection was conducted to facilitate the Nigerian Air Force’s planning and survey for their commitment to build an affordable housing estate in partnership with the Ekiti State Government.

Hon. Ojuawo stated that the proposed housing estate would be mutually beneficial to Ekiti State and the Air Force base, enhancing airport security, reducing the housing deficit, and fostering military-civilian relationship.

Dr. Gboyega Oloniyo expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Air Force for collaborating with the Ekiti State Government, under the leadership of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, on this project. Dr. Oloniyo emphasized that the housing scheme is a key component of the administration’s infrastructure development pillar, aimed at driving growth and value in Ekiti State’s economy. 

The partnership between the Nigerian Air Force and Ekiti State Government is expected to yield positive outcomes for the state’s economic development and housing needs.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

Agbeyewa Farms Explores Strategic Partnerships with Niji Agro Services Limited.

Agbeyewa Farms Explores Strategic Partnerships with Niji Agro Services Limited.

In a significant step towards expanding its operations and fostering innovation in the agricultural sector, Agbeyewa Farms Limited and its counterpart from the Cavista Holdings paid a working visit to Niji Agro Services Limited in Ibadan during the week. The visit, led by Agbeyewa Farms' MD/CEO, Oska Seyi Ayeleso, aimed to explore potential partnerships that would propel the company to new heights.

The Agbeyewa team, comprising key management staff, including Dauda Lawal, Director of Community Engagement, Babatunde Akinsinde, General Manager, Farm Operations, and Dr. Mima Nedelcovych, a Director of the Agbeyewa Board,( and all the way from the United States of America) was warmly received by Farmer Kolawole Adeniji, the Managing Director of Niji Agro Services Limited. The team was also accompanied by Tony Iloh, General Manager of Cavista Holdings, Kabir Shagaya, Director of Business Strategy, and Segun Awolowo Jr., Manager Business Strategy. 

During the visit, our team had an opportunity to engage with Farmer Kolawole Adeniji and some of its key management team, after which we took a tour of its expansive fabricating and processing facilities. This exposure, no doubt, will provide valuable insights into our company's operations while also highlighting potential areas of collaboration and partnership. This partnership is expected to leverage the strengths of both companies, driving growth and development in the agricultural sector in Nigeria and beyond.

The visit underscores Agbeyewa Farms' commitment to scaling its operations and its willingness to engage with experienced entrepreneurs in the agro-allied business. By fostering strategic partnerships, Agbeyewa Farms aims to enhance its capabilities, improve efficiency, and contribute to the growth of the agricultural industry in Nigeria.

This development is a testament to Cavista Holdings' and Agbeyewa Farms' dedication to innovation, collaboration, and community development. As both companies continue to explore new opportunities and strengthen existing relationships, we remain poised to make a lasting impact in the agricultural sector and beyond.

FORMER DEPUTY GOVERNOR BIODUN ALUKO HEADS BAO STATE ENDORSEMENT COMMITTEE

FORMER DEPUTY GOVERNOR BIODUN ALUKO HEADS BAO STATE ENDORSEMENT COMMITTEE.

….to Coordinate State-wide Unified Endorsement Programme.

A high-powered committee headed by a former Deputy Governor, Surveyor Abiodun Aluko has been constituted to coordinate a State-wide unified confirmation of the will of people in the State for the Governor to remain in office till 2030. 

The move followed the unanimous endorsements of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s second term in office by critical Stakeholders from each of the three senatorial districts in the Ekiti State as well as a number of groups and individuals including the State Caucus of All Progressives Congress (APC) which is the highest organ of the party in the state, the State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), all Primary School Teachers in the 16 Local Government Areas of the State, the State Chapter of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Students and youth groups as well as communities and traditional chiefs across the state.

The committee was constituted in Ado Ekiti at a meeting of critical stakeholders including political leaders, opinion leaders and community leaders across the State. 

Members of the committee tagged “BAO State Endorsement Committee” include former Deputy Governor, Prof Modupe Adelabu and Elder Alaba Bejide as Co-Chairmen while Rt. Hon. Karounwi Oladapo, Hon. Folorunso Olabode and Hon Seun Afuye will serve as Secretary, Treasurer and Welfare Officer respectively.

The Majority Leader of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Michael Opeyemi representing Distinguished Senators from the State and Rt. Hon Femi Bamisile, representing Honourable Members of the House of Representatives from the State are also members of the august body.  

Others are; Barr. Sola Elesin, party’s State Chairman , Hon. Dele Fatile, Comrade Segun Dipe representing the APC State Exco; Evang. Ayo Kolawole, Chairman, North Senatorial District; Hon. Bankole Odekun Chairman, Central Senatorial District; Chief Akindele Akinbobola, Chairman, South Senatorial District, Hon. Michael Akinleye representing the APC Local Government Party Chairmen, Hon. Olusegun Ojo representing the ALGON in the State. Mrs. Caroline Egunlusi , the party’s State Women Leader , Mrs. Akinwale Kikelomo, Mrs Omolabi Bolanle representing the party women and Women Stakeholders . High Chief Olajide Awe, Otunba Lekan Oyebanji, Rt. Hon. Stephen Aribasoye, representing the State House of Assembly, Mrs Mary Oso - Omotosho for Communities Representation and Rt Hon Taiwo   Olatunbosun, representing the Media   (Publicity).

     

Speaking shortly after the inauguration of the committee tagged “BAO State Endorsement Committee” in Ado Ekiti, Surveyor Abiodun Aluko stressed that Governor Oyebanji's second-term endorsement is rooted in his administration's tangible achievements, inclusive governance, and commitment to the welfare of all segments of Ekiti society. 

Noting that the Governor has been meticulously implementing his six-pillars of ‘Shared Prosperity Agenda’ which cut across all strata of governance to the admiration of all stakeholders since assumption of office. 

Surveyor Aluko said the Oyebanji-led government has made remarkable progress and impacted in the lives of the people which has practically silenced opposition  within the state, with leading opposition figures praising and supporting him. 

He said, “the governor’s impact has been significantly felt across all sectors, resulting in a series of endorsements and support for him to run for a second term until 2030. Is it road infrastructure or healthcare investment; welfare of workers and pensioners; investment in agriculture, educational support, care for the elderly and vulnerable citizens, and human capital development”.

“From pensioners to artisans, labour unions, workers, traditional institutions, youth and women groups, there has been a consistent declaration of support, even non-partisan individuals and groups that transcend political, religion and social strata have declared support for Oyebanji’s second term, leading many to suggest that he is going to face the easiest gubernatorial elections in the state’s history” , Aluko emphasized.

Aluko explained that the primary function of the committee is to manage the endorsement event that is expected to hold very soon at a date to be determined by the committee and ensure harmony, safety, and structured conduct for a peaceful, orderly occasion devoid of any form of disturbance to the prevailing peace in the State.

“Everybody loves BAO and his endorsement is a done deal. We, as elder statesmen, must however handle issues maturely. It is only wise and responsible to properly manage the event”, he said.