Oyebanji Reaffirms Youth Empowerment Agenda at Mechatronics Training for Tricycle and Motorcycle Technicians.

Oyebanji Reaffirms Youth Empowerment Agenda at Mechatronics Training for Tricycle and Motorcycle Technicians.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment and economic growth, as he declared open a five-day specialised mechatronics training on the repair and maintenance of tricycles and motorcycles.

Represented by the Honourable Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Otunba Kayode Fasae, at the opening ceremony on Monday, 7th July 2025, the Governor described the training as a strategic effort to equip young technicians with modern technical skills needed to boost their livelihoods and contribute meaningfully to the local economy.

The training, organised in partnership with the Simba Group and the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), is part of ongoing upskilling programmes at the Ekiti State Centre for Wealth Creation and Employment.

In his address, Governor Oyebanji emphasised that the administration’s six-point development agenda prioritises youth empowerment, employment growth, and human capital development. According to him, these are not just policy ideals but practical steps that influence daily governance and partnerships aimed at creating wealth and generating employment opportunities.

“Tricycles and motorcycles are more than just means of transport, they are instruments of opportunity, and those who service them are vital in keeping that opportunity alive,” Oyebanji said. He added that by investing in technical skills development, the state government is fostering a skilled, self-reliant, and prosperous Ekiti.

The Governor commended the Simba Group and NADDC for their collaboration, and applauded the trainees for taking the initiative to upgrade their skills, urging them to maximise the opportunity for their personal and professional advancement.

The programme is expected to provide participants with hands-on experience and practical knowledge that will enhance their capacity to operate and maintain modern tricycle and motorcycle technology.

2026: No Vacancy in Govt House, Ekiti Women Tell Oyebanji’s Challengers.

2026: No Vacancy in Govt House, Ekiti Women Tell Oyebanji’s Challengers.

All Progressives Congress Women Leaders in Ekiti State have sent a clear message to those threatening to dislodge Governor Biodun Oyebanji from the government house in June 20, 2026 governorship election to have a rethink, saying there is no vacancy in the state till 2030.

The APC State Women Leader, Mrs Caroline Eegunjobi, boasted at separate locations in Ikere, Ilawe and Igede Ekiti, headquarters of Ikere, Ekiti Southwest and Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Governments respectively, during a party’s mobilisation tour to ramp up support for Governor Oyebanji.

This firm position was also affirmed by the APC Women Leaders in Ikere Council Area, Mrs Kikelomo Babalola and her counterparts in Ekiti Southwest, Mrs Abiodun Oladapo and Irepodun/Ifelodun Council, Mrs Aanu Elegbeleye, in their separate presentations.

The programme was conceptualised by the Ekiti State First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, who was represented at the event by her Special Assistant on Political Matters, Mrs Toyin Adepoju, to mobilise women for the governor ahead of the APC primary and the 2026 polls.

Speaking pointedly at the event, Mrs Caroline Eegunjobi, overtly posited that the women declared support for Governor Oyebanji on the strength of his exhilarating performance rating in the last two and half years.

She affirmed total loyalty to the governor on behalf of the women and promised to deliver massive votes for him in the primary election and other polls, saying the development and peace being enjoyed in Ekiti under the current government were unprecedented.

“We are saying that there is no vacancy in Ekiti State government house. We have heard about some people who are ready to join the race, no problem about this. But we are sending a clear message that we are for Governor Oyebanji”, the women leader stated.

In her message of hope to the womenfolk, the Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, praised the APC women for their loyalty to the party and the government, describing this as an impetus for the governor to deliver.

Mrs Afuye appealed that they shouldn’t betray the confidence reposed in them in the primary and the main election, while urging them to rebuff the “moneybags”, who are desperately contriving ways to purchase their conscience during the APC primary.

“I have a message from Governor Oyebanji and our First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji and the message is that: this government will never neglect you. We are for you 100%.

“My boss and his wife have done well to uplift women politically, administratively and financially. They will do more if given the chance till 2030. We shouldn’t allow any intruder to steal our ticket.

“The primary election is coming, we are not in any way afraid. I plead with you, women are progressives wherever they are, don’t allow anyone to mislead you with money. Be committed to our party and we will not disappoint you”.

Lending credence to the fact that Governor Oyebanji has performed creditably well, the Chairperson, Ekiti APC Women Elders’ Council, Mrs Ronke Okunsanya, said the message by women shows that there is no division within their ranks.

Mrs Okunsanya averred that the APC shall be victorious in the next governorship poll with support coming from women, who are known for political consciousness and effective participations in the electioneering process.

“Anywhere we go, the atmosphere was always charged with messages of goodwill for the governor, the First Lady and the Deputy Governor. I was coming to preach unity, but I could see that the unity was already existing among our women. Continue in your support for Governor Oyebanji

“Those who are threatening to take over the government will be put to shame. There is no way for them with the messages we are getting from you. The primary election is coming and the candidate we have is Governor Biodun Oyebanji”.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe, urged the women and other party members to participate in the Continuous Voter Registration Exercise to be declared by Independent National Electoral Commission.

Awe said the massive turn out of women at the mobilisation tour was a well amplified message that Ekiti is safe for Governor Oyebanji in the impending primary and governorship poll.

On the entourage are: Local Government Chairmen, Hon Sola Elesin-led State Working Committee, Commissioners, Special Advisers, women groups, market women, among others.

Fayemi Mourns the Passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Fayemi Mourns the Passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland.

Dr Kayode Fayemi, the immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), has expressed sadness over the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd traditional ruler of the city. 

In a condolence message on Tuesday in Abuja by the Fayemi Media Office, Fayemi commiserated with the royal family, the Olubadan-in-Council, the government of Oyo State, and the people of Ibadan, describing the death of Oba Olakulehin as a monumental loss to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole. 

He further stated that the reign of the monarch, though short, was marked by  ‘’peace, unity, and a commitment to cultural preservation.”

Fayemi said, ‘’The passing of His Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin is not just the loss of another traditional ruler, but of a statesman, an intellectual, and a bridge-builder who brought honour and foresight to the traditional institution.’’

He recalled that before ascending the throne, the late Olubadan had distinguished himself in the militarybusiness,ss and politics, bringing this rich experience to bear in his leadership of Ibadanland.

“Oba Olakulehin’s reign, though brief, was impactful in substance. He was a progressive royal father who believed in using tradition to support good governance, social development, and the unity of Nigerians,” he stated.

 

The former Ekiti governor prayed for the peaceful repose of the late monarch’s soul, and urged the people of Ibadan to take solace in his worthy legacies and the enduring institutions he helped to strengthen.

“May his soul rest in perfect peace,” Fayemi concluded.

A Dangerous Game of Falsehood in Ekiti Politics: The Evil Plot to Deceive the Presidency.

A Dangerous Game of Falsehood in Ekiti Politics: The Evil Plot to Deceive the Presidency.

By Idowu Ephraim Faleye

 

The political space in Nigeria has always been full of twists and turns, but when ambition becomes so blinding that it resorts to outright falsehood, then there’s a serious problem. In recent days, a disturbing report has been making the rounds—crafted as “Breaking News” and presented with such boldness that one might mistake it for credible journalism. The headline screams: “Fayemi Sets To Lead Ekiti Governor, Oyebanji, Speaker, Other Top Loyalists To ADC.”

At first glance, some may believe the report, especially given the way it names names and strategically attempts to sound like an exclusive leak. But when we look beyond the surface, when we weigh the facts against the fiction, and when we measure the motive behind such propaganda, it becomes clear that this is not news—it is a desperate fabrication by an aspirant seeking to destroy others in his own political party just to rise above them. And that’s not only shameful, it is dangerous.

The real aim of the lie is simple—to sow distrust by painting the sitting governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, and his loyal team as traitors who are about to jump ship to an opposition party. The intent is to make people believe that Oyebanji and his group can no longer be trusted. And once that seed of doubt is sown, the liar hopes to be seen as the "loyal one," the better option, the safer alternative to hand power to.

But politics is not just about strategy—it is about character. It is about truth, integrity, and service. And this desperate tactic reveals a deep moral flaw in the aspirant behind the lie. If your only route to power is by dragging your fellow party members in the mud, spreading falsehoods to create division, and misleading people with fake news, then you have already failed the leadership test before the race even begins.

Let’s be clear: neither Governor Biodun Oyebanji nor any of the respected names mentioned in that report—Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Rt. Hon. Aribasoye, Hon. Hakeem Jamiu, Hon. Biodun Omoleye, Hon. Sunday Adunmo, Prof. Modupe Adelabu, Elder Samuel Abejide, Prof. Adio Folayan, Mr. Dapo Kolawole, Alhaji Dauda Lawal, Mr. Seyi Ayeleso—has had any meeting or plan to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC). There is absolutely no known contact between them and the newly formed political coalition mentioned in the article. These are seasoned political figures with deep-rooted commitments to the All Progressives Congress (APC), and they are working with the governor to build a stronger party in Ekiti and in Nigeria at large.

Governor Oyebanji, in particular, remains one of the most trusted and loyal leaders in the APC family. He has maintained that trust. Those who know him can attest to his unwavering loyalty and humility, even in the face of pressure. If anyone is looking for a governor who understands team spirit and fidelity to the cause of party-building, Oyebanji fits that role without question.

So why this lie? Why now? Because ambition has blinded some to decency. There is a growing pattern where some desperate individuals in politics, rather than work hard to earn credibility, choose instead to drag others down with falsehood. They manufacture stories and bribe online platforms, hoping that their deceit will bear fruit. But lies are fragile. They may fly for a while, but they always crash.

It is one thing to contest for office. It is another thing entirely to do so with dignity. If you claim to be a better alternative to a sitting governor, then come out openly with your ideas, your vision, your plans, your track record. Tell the people and the party what you intend to do differently. Don’t hide behind lies and backdoor manipulation. Don’t make up stories to discredit those who have sacrificed and served. That’s not how progress is built; that’s how trust is destroyed.

There is also a spiritual dimension to this. All religions condemn the act of bearing false witness. In Christianity, it is one of the Ten Commandments—"Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour." In Islam, slander is a grievous sin that draws divine punishment. Even traditional beliefs in our land frown upon false accusation, knowing that such acts can bring curses not only upon the individual but upon their lineage. Politics may be a game of numbers, but the heavens still judge character. And those who trade in lies will eventually be repaid in full.

Politically, this falsehood is not just a slap to Governor Oyebanji and his loyalists. It is an attack on the unity of the APC. Such propaganda, if allowed to grow, can create disaffection within the party, pit members against each other, and hand victory to the opposition on a platter of gold. Unity cannot be built on lies. And no party survives when its strongest assets are being secretly assassinated with words.

Let it be known: the individuals listed in that fabricated report are not defecting to any party. They are not holding meetings with ADC. They are not part of any anti-presidential coalition. They are not backstabbing anyone. Rather, they are standing firm with the APC, working day and night to ensure that the party remains strong in Ekiti and respected nationally. They are builders, not betrayers.

And the governor? He is focused on governance. He is delivering on his promises. He is not distracted by the noise. But even silence has a limit. There comes a time when those who know the truth must speak up—not to defend the guilty, but to protect the innocent. This is one of such times.

We must not allow darkness to cover the light. We must not let ambition kill truth. We must not remain silent while a man of peace and integrity is falsely accused by those who should be his allies. We must call out lies and the liars behind them—not just for the sake of politics, but for the sake of our future.

To party members, this is a time to close ranks. The house must not be divided by the selfishness of one individual who thinks destroying others is the only way to rise. Let’s stand by APC leaders. Let’s defend truth. Let’s protect the integrity of APC political family.

And to the aspirant behind the lies—pause and reflect. Is this really how you want to lead? If you lie to rise, how will you govern with truth? If you betray now, who will trust you later? Power gotten through deception never lasts. You may win a position, but history will not be kind to you.

As the dust settles on this unfortunate drama, may truth prevail. May the innocent be vindicated. And may our politics grow beyond lies, beyond propaganda, beyond selfish ambition. Nigeria deserves better. Ekiti deserves better. The APC deserves better. And we, the people, must insist on better.

Idowu Ephraim Faleye writes from Ado-Ekiti +2348132100608.

Ekiti South APC Leaders Hail Aluko at Stakeholders’ Meeting, Drum Support for BAO, Afuye’s Second Term.

Ekiti South APC Leaders Hail Aluko at Stakeholders’ Meeting, Drum Support for BAO, Afuye’s Second Term.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti South Senatorial District on Monday, July 7, applauded the Chairman of the Ekiti South Senatorial Elders’ Forum, His Excellency, Surveyor Abiodun Aluko, for his unifying leadership and commitment to strengthening the party’s structure across the region.

The stakeholders’ meeting, held at Aluko’s residence in Ado-Ekiti, brought together critical party figures, including the Senatorial Executives, State Executive members from the South Senatorial District, and the six APC Local Government Chairmen in the region. The gathering was aimed at solidifying internal unity and strategizing for the 2026 re-election campaigns of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) and Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Christianah Afuye (MCA).

In his opening address, Surveyor Aluko expressed appreciation to party leaders for the trust bestowed upon him as chairman of the Elders’ Forum.

 “I sincerely appreciate everyone for giving me the opportunity to serve as chairman of the Ekiti South Senatorial Elders’ Forum,” he said.

“This gathering is a testament to our unity and shared commitment to the growth of our party. We must remain focused and united, especially as we prepare to deliver massively for BAO and Chief (Mrs) Afuye in 2026.”

Aluko stressed the importance of party cohesion and emphasized that unity remained the foundation for sustainable governance and electoral success.

Also speaking, the APC Senatorial Chairman, High Chief Akinbobola, commended Aluko for the swift transformation the elders’ forum had witnessed since he assumed leadership.

“Your Excellency, we’ve seen the positive shift in direction since you took over,” Akinbobola said.

“You have restored purpose and coordination within the elders’ forum, and we are proud to stand with you.”

The Ekiti South Senatorial Secretary, Afuye Oluwaseun, described the meeting as a landmark development, noting it was the first of its kind in the senatorial district.

 “This is the first of its kind in this senatorial zone, and I pray this becomes a permanent tradition,” Oluwaseun said.

“We must continue building bridges and supporting one another in the interest of progress.”

The meeting also featured active participation from the six APC Local Government Chairmen from Ekiti South, who jointly commended Aluko’s inclusive style of leadership and pledged unwavering loyalty.

 “Your leadership has reawakened the spirit of unity among us,” one of the chairmen said.

“We’re solidly behind the BAO and MCA continuity project.”

In the same vein, State Executive members from the South Senatorial District showered encomiums on Aluko for the political maturity and wisdom he has continued to display since assuming office.

“You have turned this forum into a strategic political force. We’re proud to work under your leadership,” one of the state executives said.

The meeting also featured serious deliberations on enhancing party unity and mobilizing ahead of the 2026 elections, with a strong focus on grassroots engagement, strategic communication, and statewide coordination.

 “The mission is clear,” a prominent stakeholder concluded.

“Ekiti South is united and fully committed to ensuring the resounding re-election of BAO and Chief (Mrs) Afuye in 2026.”

The Victor We Know, the Olabimtan With Probity He Has a Clean Slate No Corruption Charges Ever Leveled Against Him.

The Victor We Know, the Olabimtan With Probity He Has a Clean Slate No Corruption Charges Ever Leveled Against Him.

By Eleko Johnson

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Chairman of the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Victor Olabimtan, has been described as the best candidate to lead the party in the state.

Olabimtan, a former Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, is being positioned by his supporters as a man of integrity, probity, and experience—qualities they say are needed to reposition the party ahead of future political contests.

According to one of his media aides, Mr. Eleko Johnson, Olabimtan’s political trajectory is one built on merit and service. He said the seasoned politician has never been linked to any corruption scandal or questionable dealings throughout his career.

“He has a clean slate, no corruption charges ever leveled against him. He is a man of probity and integrity overload. He never soiled his hands in any shady deal,” Eleko said.

Olabimtan’s public service résumé includes serving as Chairman of the Ondo State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Federal Commissioner, Special Adviser to the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, and currently as Chairman of SUBEB.

His supporters believe his wealth of experience, gathered across different tiers of government and leadership roles, places him in a unique position to unify and strengthen the APC in Ondo State.

“Experience cannot be bought; it can only be earned. Hon. Olabimtan has served and is still serving meritoriously, and that has earned him the requisite knowledge to lead the APC in Ondo State,” Eleko added.

With the APC gearing up for internal restructuring and future elections, stakeholders say the time is right to rally behind a leader whose track record reflects discipline, dedication, and transparency.

“Who else should we jostle for, if not Olabimtan? Let’s secure the best for APC in Ondo State,” he said.

Oyebanji debunks rumors of planned defection to ADC, reaffirms commitment to APC.

Oyebanji debunks rumors of planned defection to ADC, reaffirms commitment to APC.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has described as false and mischievous, a viral online report alleging his planned defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) alongside other political leaders in the state.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Olayinka Oyebode, the governor described the report as "a tissue of lies" fabricated by disgruntled political elements who are desperate to discredit his administration.

The report had claimed that Governor Oyebanji and some top government functionaries in the state were being lured into the ADC by the immediate past Governor of the state, Dr Kayode Fayemi.

Oyebode, however, dismissed the report as baseless, saying the governor remains firmly rooted in the All Progressives Congress (APC), with no affiliation or intention to join the ADC.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Governor Biodun Oyebanji and the public office holders mentioned in the report remain firmly rooted in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and have no link, neither do they have any plan whatsoever to join the ADC,” the statement read in part.

He also stressed that Dr Fayemi remains a committed APC chieftain, noting his attendance at the recent APC caucus meeting in Iyin-Ekiti, where party leaders unanimously endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji for second terms.

“It is on record that Dr Fayemi attended the recent APC Caucus meeting held in Iyin-Ekiti, where the caucus endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji for a second term, a decision that was widely reported in the media,” Oyebode added.

The governor’s aide further accused the unnamed sponsors of the report of attempting to create a rift between Governor Oyebanji and President Tinubu by weaponising the longstanding political association between the governor and Fayemi.

“We are aware of a deliberate attempt by some mischief makers to weaponise Governor Oyebanji’s association with Dr Fayemi in a bid to cause a rift between the Governor and President Tinubu. Unfortunately for these jesters, Mr President is a strategic politician who can see through their shenanigans,” he said.

He urged the public to disregard the “childish media attack,” which he described as a ploy by some desperate governorship aspirants in the state who lack a viable agenda to market themselves to the electorate.

“Now that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the date for the primary election, we expect them to be bold enough to come out and sell their candidature to party members and Ekitikete rather than seeking an ignoble way to gate crash,” the statement concluded.