OYEBANJI EXPRESSES APPRECIATION TO PRESIDENT TINUBU, EKITI PEOPLE OVER SECOND TERM ENDORSEMENT.

OYEBANJI EXPRESSES APPRECIATION TO PRESIDENT TINUBU, EKITI PEOPLE OVER SECOND TERM ENDORSEMENT.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji wishes to appreciate the people of the State for their consistent support for his administration in the last two and a half years, especially Monday’s public endorsement of the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office, as well as his own endorsement together with the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, for a second term in office.

Governor Oyebanji in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, expresses his gratitude to God Almighty for the success recorded so far by the administration. He also thanks President Tinubu for his love and support for the state, stressing that the President’s economic policies have helped to accelerate development in the state.

The Governor also thanks political, community and religious leaders in the state for their massive support, especially the unprecedented huge turnout at the endorsement event. He also expresses deep appreciation to over 300 groups and associations that have, in the past four months, endorsed him and his deputy for a second term in office.

The Governor, in the statement made available to journalists in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday says: “Yesterday was not only a remarkable day, it was a watershed in the history of our dear State, and we thank God Almighty for the hugely successful political gathering.

“Our profound appreciation also goes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support for the State which has become evident in the all-round development being enjoyed in Ekiti, and to all our leaders and stakeholders who showed up in large numbers at the colourful meeting.

“Profound gratitude goes to Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; former Governors Niyi Adebayo, Segun Oni and Ayodele Fayose; National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Bashiru; former Deputy Governors, Surv. Abiodun Aluko and Prof Modupe Adelabu, who served as co-chairs of the planning committee of the statewide endorsement.

“Special thanks to all our serving and former members of the National Assembly; the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Adeoye Aribasoye and all members of the State Assembly, as well as members of the State Executive Council.

“Our debt of appreciation to all our traditional rulers, the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the Muslim Community; the State council of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and other media practitioners, Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), youths and students bodies, heads of security agencies, artists, health workers, market women, artisans, drivers’ unions, okada riders, and our ever diligent street sweepers.

“Mention must be made of over 300 groups and associations that had, at different times, publicly proclaimed their endorsement for BAO/MCA second term in office. It must be stated that I am most humbled by your “vote of confidence” and we shall continue to work assiduously towards making Ekiti attain the heights that we will all be proud of.” the Governor stated.

OSV Hails APC Leaders, Ekiti Stakeholders for Landmark Statewide Endorsement Rally.

OSV Hails APC Leaders, Ekiti Stakeholders for Landmark Statewide Endorsement Rally.

The Oyebanji Street Vanguards (OSV), a grassroots pro-democracy movement in Ekiti State, has expressed appreciation to political and socio-economic stakeholders for the resounding success of the statewide endorsement held on Monday at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti.

In a statement issued by its Convener, HC Adebayo, OSV thanked the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for their unwavering support towards the re-election project of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Governor Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

The group also extended its gratitude to the Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for standing in solidarity with Ekiti people during the endorsement rally, as well as to former Ekiti Governors, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Chief Segun Oni and Dr. Ayodele Fayose  for their show of statesmanship and commitment to democratic consolidation.

Special appreciation was also directed to the former Deputy Governors, the Senate Leader and Senator representing Ekiti Central, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, all members of the National Assembly from Ekiti State, the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly and all honourable members for their visible presence and support at the event.

OSV commended the collective spirit of unity and cooperation demonstrated by labour leaders, civil servants, pensioners, market women, artisans, commercial drivers, Okada riders, youth groups, traditional institutions and the entire people of Ekiti, all of whom contributed immensely to the success of the programme.

According to the group, the massive turnout of people from across the 16 local government areas of the state was a clear indication of the people’s confidence in the leadership of President Tinubu at the national level and Governor Oyebanji at the state level.

"We sincerely appreciate the commitment of everyone who made the endorsement rally a huge success. It was a celebration of unity, progress and shared vision for the future of Ekiti," the statement read in part.

The group further congratulated all members of the APC, particularly new members who recently joined from opposition parties, reassuring them of full inclusion and fair treatment within the party’s progressive fold.

OSV pledged to continue mobilising residents across every street in Ekiti to support the Renewed Hope Agenda and the developmental strides of the Oyebanji-led administration.

“We shall not relent in our commitment to promote the virtues of love, peace, and hard work, which define our leader, Governor Oyebanji. Together, we are building a new Ekiti anchored on unity and prosperity,” the statement concluded.

Ekiti stands still as Political Heavyweights Endorse Tinubu, Oyebanji for Second Term.

Ekiti stands still as Political Heavyweights Endorse Tinubu, Oyebanji for Second Term.

...Tinubu, Oyebanji are good products, say Ayedatiwa, Fayose, others.

Amid a crowd that is unprecedented in Ekiti State's political history, leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), political leaders and stakeholders as well as non-partisan groups, on Monday, endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji for second term in their respective offices.

Endorsed alongside Oyebanji, at the well attended event held at the Ekiti Parapo pavilion, Ado-Ekiti, was his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye.

The Governor of Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Ayedatiwa, former governors Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose and Segun Oni, as well as the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, had taken turns to eulogized President Tinubu and governor Oyebanji and went ahead to endorsed them for re-election in the 2026 Ekiti Governorship election and the 2027 presidential election.

The palatial Ekitiparapo Pavilion, along Ado-Iyin Road, the venue of the programme, was filled to the brim, as politicians, artisans, traders, teachers and other non-partisan groups, stormed the arena to participate in the statewide endorsement.

The ranks of the ruling APC, also swelled at the event, with the defection of former Senate Minority Leader and chieftain of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Biodun Olujimi, former Ekiti State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Obafemi Adewale (SAN) and a member of the state Assembly, Hon Babatunde Omolayo, together with their supporters.

The Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, flanked by serving and former members of the National Assembly from Ekiti State, moved the motion for Tinubu's endorsement for a second term in office. The motion was seconded by a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Bamisile.

Thereafter, a letter communicating the President’s endorsement was presented to the National Secretary of APC, Senator Bashiru Ajibola.

In the same fashion, the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Adeoye Aribasoye, flanked by members of the 7th Assembly, moved the motion for Oyebanji's endorsement for second term and was seconded by the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon Bolaji Olagbaju and the motion was ratified by the crowd, who chorused "yes".

In his address, the highly ecstatic Governor Oyebanji, said the endorsement would further spur him to rev the pedal of development for the people, saying he was touched by the congregation of political heavyweights , who came to ratify his election for second term.

As a rare show of political sportsmanship, Oyebanji said the endorsement  doesn't abridge anybody's rights from contesting for the governorship on the platform of APC, saying the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria doesn't preclude those interested from taking a plunge.

Sending a terrible signal to the massing  opposition, Oyebanji stated that Ekiti won't abandon APC for any other party, describing Tinubu as a President in whom Ekiti is well pleased, assuring that the state will ramp up it's voting strength in support of the President

"On behalf of President Tinubu, I thank you for this vote of confidence you are passing on us today. This is the first time President Tinubu will be endorsed by a state in the Southwest. In 2023, Ekiti State was the first state to deliver victory to the President and we are telling him that we will do better in 2027".

Governor Oyebanji stated that his administration, as a demonstration of loyalty to President Tinubu, embarked on  total reconstruction of the 19 kilometres Ado-Iworoko -Ifaki road, disclosing that the Federal Government has been fair to Ekiti in the execution of road, education and health projects.

"I am deeply touched by what you are doing today. I will continue to serve you well. I won't be proud in .my service to you. President Tinubu asked me to tell you that you have nothing to fear, that everything is being emplaced to make the lives of Nigerians better.

"The party we love in Ekiti State is APC, there is no other party. We are for Asiwaju. We are assuring our new members that their rights will be protected fully in this party. Senator Olujimi and other new members and those who will still join us have nothing to fear".

In his address full of encomiums for Oyebanji, the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Ayedatiwa, said the combined forces of President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji will catapult Ekiti's economy to enviable height if given a beneficial second term opportunity.

"Governor Oyebanji is not just winning this election, but he must win overwhelmingly. With the crowd I am seeing here today, I know you are going to support him in the primary and the election coming up next year. All the 23 governors in APC have endorsed President Tinubu and we are also coming here in Ekiti to do same for Governor Oyebanji". 

Justifying the endorsement, former Governor Ayo Fayose, described the event as epochal and unique, because it brought all political heavyweights together, adding that he is supporting the duo of President Tinubu and Oyebanji without reservation.

"You know my record in terms of election winning in Ekiti State. I won all the 16 local governments and 168 out of 177 wards in this state. I want to handover that record to Governor Oyebanji in this election. I want you to support him, because we all love his humility and sense of delivery. We want him to win in all the 16 local government areas and be the first Governor to win in all the 177 wards"

Lending credence to what Fayose affirmed, former governors Segun Oni and Niyi Adebayo, maintained that Tinubu deserved being endorsed, because Nigeria of our dream is gradually taking roots under the APC federal government

They described Governor Oyebanji as a good and marketable product, whose political mastery and ingenuity are bringing all political tendencies together in Ekiti State, saying Ekiti must be part of Tinubu's revolution.

In his submission, Senator Bamidele, described the endorsement as apt and reasonable for President Tinubu and governor Oyebanji to consolidate democracy gains for Nigerians, so that the generation yet unborn can praise the current leadership.

"President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji have shown how to be humble in position of leadership. They showed how to descend from the Olympian heights to the level of the people. They deserved being ratified for second term. President Tinubu had taken hard decisions. This he did for the sake of all all Nigerians and generation yet unborn.

The APC National National Secretary, Senator Basiru Ajibola, saluted Ekiti politicians for endorsing President Tinubu to lead the country till 2031, saying this solidarity was a confirmation that the current APC led federal government has not disappointed Nigerians.

The APC Scribe who counseled the Yoruba people against treachery, appreciated Governor Oyebanji for uplifting the bar of governance in Ekiti to combat poverty, unemployment and other socioeconomic maladies confronting the citizens.

The APC National Chairman, after receiving the endorsement letters, said: "I have received the letters that President Bola Tinubu and governor Oyebanji and his Deputy should continue till 2030 and 2031. Though, in law, we are to conduct a primary for all interested governorship aspirants, which we promise will be free and fair.

"With this endorsement coming from the leader of APC in Ekiti State, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, stakeholders and key leaders of the opposition, we are going to relay your position to the leadership of our party. I want to thank you for supporting our party".

Senator Olujimi, who spoke on behalf of the defectors, stated that President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji will spend second term, whether the opposition likes it or not, describing this as the best way to set Nigeria and Ekiti on the path of greatness.

As early as 8am, signs that the political gathering would be massive and unprecedented started manifesting, as groups drawn from across the 16 local governments arrived the Ado Ekiti capital city in droves.

The ambience of the venue became supercharged, as Governor Oyebanji, accompanied by the leaders, arrived the venue of the programme at 12:16pm, and was received amid cheers and wild jubilation by party supporters and other admirers, who adorned in different Ankara Aso Ebi and vests, carrying the logo of APC and the governor's portraits.

Other dignitaries at the colourful event are all the nine members of the National Assembly, Chairman, Nigerian Ports Authority, Senator Dayo Adeyeye, Senator Fayose Adeyeye, former Deputy Governor Biodun Aluko, Prof Modupe Adelabu; among others.

Power, People and Purpose as Oluwatuyi Commands Waves Of Support At Historic Ekiti Rally.

Power, People and Purpose as Oluwatuyi Commands Waves Of Support At Historic Ekiti Rally.

...A Resounding Endorsement For PBAT, BAO / MCA At Ekiti Parapo Pavilion.

By: Asubiojo G.O

In what has been described as one of the most significant political mobilisations in recent Ekiti history, the Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga (popularly known as Chenco), led a massive contingent of enthusiastic supporters to the high-profile endorsement rally for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT), Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) and Chief Monisade Afuye (MCA).

The rally, which took place at the expansive Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti, witnessed a record-breaking crowd, turning the venue into a carnival of solidarity, music, and political affirmation. The presence of Hon. Oluwatuyi and his loyal supporters added colour and momentum to the already vibrant atmosphere, as they danced, chanted, and marched in what many described as a show of unmatched grassroots strength.

Addressing the Information and Civic Orientation Department of the Irepodun/Ifelodun LG, led by Mr. G.O. Asubiojo, Hon. Oluwatuyi said the rally was the “most monumental mobilisation” he had witnessed in his political career.

“This rally is more than a gathering; it is a bold statement of support for the visionary leadership of President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji. The impact of their governance is felt across every ward and household in Ekiti,” Chenco said.

He praised President Tinubu as a “transformational leader” whose national economic and infrastructural strides are already resonating with the people. On Governor Oyebanji, he was emphatic:

“Governor Oyebanji’s administration has brought renewed hope through inclusive, transparent, and people-first governance. His love for Ekiti people is evident in every policy and project,” he added.

Also lending their voices to the resounding endorsement were the Vice Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun LG, Hon. Remi Alade, and the Secretary to the Local Government, Dr. Hon. Sule Fatai, who described the rally as a “clear endorsement of continuity and progressive governance.”

According to Hon. Alade, “This is an organic demonstration of loyalty to leaders who have kept faith with their promises. Today, we see the confidence of the people growing stronger.”

Dr. Fatai, on his part, noted that “the unity witnessed here is rare in our political space. This crowd is not hired; they are here willingly because of what PBAT, BAO, and MCA represent—stability, competence, and inclusiveness.”

In a heartwarming display of civil service solidarity, the Head of Local Government Administration (HLGA), Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, lauded the overwhelming turnout of Irepodun/Ifelodun LG staff, who came out en masse in celebration, cheering and waving banners in what observers called an “epic show of love and loyalty.”

“The energy and excitement shown by our workers today is proof that public servants in Ekiti align with purposeful leadership. They have come to say thank you and to say ‘let the good work continue,’” Mrs. Akinbobola remarked.

The rally, seen as a major milestone ahead of future political realignments, has further cemented the strength of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State. Observers have already described the event as a symbolic declaration of victory ahead of 2026 and beyond.

Ekiti 2026 Guber: Endorsement Bells Ring For BAO.

Ekiti 2026 Guber: Endorsement Bells Ring For BAO.
..As Residents Root For Tinubu's Second Term.
By Wole Olujobi

Bells of endorsement calls rang through the length and breadth of Ekiti State Monday, July 28, 2025,  for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, as residents, in a blaze of pomp and drums, stormed Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, to seek the governor's nod to accede to their calls to offer himself for  further service to Ekiti people in the 2026 governorship election. This, they said, would enable him complete the execution of his development programmes encapsulated in his six-point agenda.

They also threw their weight behind President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to run for second term to enable him consolidate on his economic reform agenda to put Nigeria on a firm footing for the nation's developmental goals.

From Otun to Omuo, Efon to Ijan, Ikere to Ijero, and Ikogosi/Erinjiyan to Iye/Eda Oniyo and far-flung Ipao/Oke-Ako,  the innocence of the early morning serenity of the state capital was shattered by the sweating throngs of citizens trekking long distances, and who in colourful attires, stormed the streets of Ado-Ekiti to stage the biggest rally ever in form of a protest to seek a demand for just one thing: that Governor Oyebanji and Deputy Governor Monisade Christiana Afuye must offer themselves again for their services to Ekiti people, while also demanding a second term for President Tinubu as the elixir to firm up political justice, economic revival and peaceful co-existence in the nation's polity.

For the first time in Ekiti State, the calls were not from the partisan choruses of the ruling party members, but from across the various non-partisan segments of the society, including informal sectors in the artisans and tradesmen groups; civil servants, teachers, transportation unions,  professional groups and students bodies, among others, who joined multi-partisan platforms to converge on the Ekitiparapo Pavilion rally venue to urge Tinubu and the governor to spare more of their time to serve the people.

It was simply 'Ekiti Mandate' in one voice  and in both form and content!

The call on Oyebanji is not without basis, as the governor, besides recording sterling performance, has, for the first time, set a standard in inter-partisan mutual relationship, as members from across party lines have forged a common front as an essential element of productive governance to grow Ekiti State from the past acrimonious relationship founded on adversarial politicking. For them, a focus-based visionary agenda for the common good of Ekiti people is the way to go to serve the larger interest of the people.

The results so far have proven Ekiti people right in their decision to go with BAO for a fresh breath of air to see development in its stark form after years of ambushes propelled by partisan hostilities against the ruling party.

No wonder, owing to the unprecedented peace in the hitherto combustive state, the rally was co-led by some prominent members of opposition political parties, notably members of the main opposition PDP, and their counterparts in SDP, including leaders of other political parties that have presence in the state.

Former Governor Segun Oni  was present at the rally, the same with former Governor Ayodele Fayose, who stormed the rally with thousands of his supporters in t-shirts branded in Oyebanji's photograph.

Fayose had at several fora made it plain that BAO is the way to go. His argument is that though he is a member of PDP,  Oyebanji of APC represents the best hope for accelerated development and peaceful co-existence among various political tendencies in the state, insisting that Ekiti State is better managed in Oyebanji's hands than dwelling on the nuances of partisan rhetoric.

Their senior prefect and first Governor of Ekiti State, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, is always at the head of the table nodding in approval as support swells for Oyebanji among critical stakeholders, including the royalty and the yokel across the state, who urged the Governor to continue to bear the torch to light Ekiti way to the promised land.

The leaders seem to  echo a French novelist and playwright, Honore de Balzac, during his desperate moment for survival when he called out for a certain physician to save him, yelling: "Call me Banchioc, only Banchioc can save me now!"

And so in the etho governed by the community spirit to see more development for Nigerians and Ekiti people on particular, partisanship was interred on the alter of collective desire for more improved conditions of living among Nigerians.

Even though a month of unceasing rains, whether by lunar/phoebus conspiracy or sheer divine favours, the heavens smiled on Ekiti people, who shunned partisanship for collective destiny, as the weather was clement to enable them plough for bountiful harvests from Oyebanji's visionary leadership.

And so today,  Monday July 28, 2025, Ekiti people woke up to a morning that Oya, the goddess of rainstorms in her blanket of gaseous veil and with her cousin Jupiter by her side, had eclipsed the flaming tongues of great Phoebus, the god of the Sun, as Appolo himself stood guard to provide the comfort of July weather across Ado-Ekiti skylines. Even the heavily pregnant clouds refused induced delivery!

As early as eight o'clock, human and vehicular traffic snarls had formed by  huge crowds that pressed hard on the streets and choked life out of the ever-busy adjoining routes to the rally venue, as mammoth crowds of residents in their bright colours stormed the venue amid drumming and dancing to seek Oyebanji's hands in visionary leadership and collaborative governance scheme, to grow the largely agrarian Ekiti State to a technological and commercial hub for the development needs of Ekiti people.

In what looked like a crusade that draws large crowds in search of salvation, thousands of residents struggled to gain access to the venue of the rally, as crowds surged and surged  to be part of history as the clock ticks for the 2026 governorship ballot.

If the arrival of the former governors was dramatic, that of Governor Oyebanji was electrifying, as the deafening shouts of BAO rent the air and ruffled the gentle ambiance of the rally venue, providing an encore to the colour and charm that characterised the entire proceedings.

Former Deputy Governor Abiodun Aluko, who spoke on behalf of the political half of the organisers, said the event was not a political ceremony but a call across the segments of the Ekiti society to unite behind a common vision to urge Nigerians and Ekiti State people to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji to continue to deliver good governance in all ramifications.

He expressed appreciation to party leaders, Labour unions, market unions, youths, professional groups for believing in Tinubu and Oyebanji as demonstrated in their massive presence at the event.

Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who spoke on behalf of Ekiti people at the event where former Deputy Governor, Senator Biodun Olujimi, defected to APC, moved the motion seconded by Hon Femi Bamisile for the endorsement of Tinubu and Oyebanji for second term on account of their innovative governance to redirect the economy for a prosperous Nigeria and Ekiti's growth.

Speaker Aribasoye, on behalf of other Assembly members, spoke in the same vein, stressing the need for the President and Governor Oyebanji to continue their quality services.
Karounwi presented Tinubu and Oyebanji's endorsement letters to Basiru for onward presentation to the President and governor.

While assuring a level-playing ground for party's primaries to elect the governorship candidate, Basiru urged Ekiti people and entire Nigerians to support Tinubu in the 2027 Presidential election and support the governor to deliver quality service in Ekiti State.

The Senate Leader, Bamidele, said the endorsement of the two leaders demonstrated the appreciation the people had for them.
He praised Oyebanjo and Afuye for their quality service to the people.
He urged Ekiti people not to be deceived into joining ADC, saying the party represented a retrogressive vehicle that should be avoided like a plague.
Segun Oni said since Nigerians were rooting for Tinubu, Ekiti people must follow suit to support Oyebanji, stressing that Ekiti people must play frontline roles in Nigeria's project for progress, adding: "Ekiti's success story of our dream is coming with Oyebanji; Nigeria's success story of our dream is on the way with Tinubu."

Fayose who said even though he was not a member of APC "and will never be",  said as the record holder in Ekiti for winning all the 16 local governments in the governorship election, he was motivated by Oyebanji's records and Oni's soft spot for the governor to support him and deputy governor for second term.

Former Governor Adebayo, who delivered former Governor Kayode Fayemi's message, praised Tinubu and Oyebanji for quality service delivery.

He welcomed the new defectors to APC and urged other like-minded people in other political parties to come on board to work for the progress of the state and Nigeria.

Basiru urged Ekiti people to be resolute in their resolve to support Tinubu to enable him continue to deliver on his life-lifting schemes for the Nigerian youths and other critical segments of the nation.

Others who joined Olujimi to defect to APC included Obafemi Adewale (SAN) and former Ekiti State Attorney General; and Minority Leader in Ekiti State House of Assembly, Babatunde Omotayo.

Olujimi, who spoke on behalf of new members, praised the former governors of the state for their forthright leadership, even as she praised Oyebanji for quality delivery of service to Ekiti people. She assured that new members would contribute their quota to strengthen the party to win elections and deliver quality service to the people.

At the event anchored by Yemisi Ayokunle, Ayodeji Afolabi and Ojo Akinlade and where Olujimi formally joined the party, were former Governors Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose, Segun Oni, Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa of Ondo State, former Deputy Governors Biodun Aluko and Prof Dupe Adelabu; Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye.

Others are APC National Secretary of APC, Basiru Ajibola; Acting State Chairman of APC, Mr Sola Elesin; former State Chairman, Chief Jide Awe; Mr Alaba Abejide, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Reps Femi Bamisile, AVM Adeniyi Ojuawo, Sola Fatoba, Biodun Omoleye, Akin Rotimi and Akinlayo Kolawole.

Others included former Deputy Speakers, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun and Oladapo Karounwi, Hons Peter Owolabi, Olanrewaju Ibrahim, Bamidele Faparusi, Ife Arowosoge, Folorunso Olabode, Chief of Staff, Niyi Adebayo, Kayode Babade, Remi Oguntuase, Bimbo Ogundipe, Chief (Mrs) Ronke Okusanya; Senators Ayo Arise and Tony Adeniyi, former Rep Oyetunde Ojo.

Others present at the rally are leaders of various political parties, chairmen and members of professional groups, leaders and members of market women, representatives of ethnic groups, youth groups and religious leaders.

Rounding off the programme, Oyebanji said he was delighted to part of the success of Ekiti State as planned by the Ekiti State Creation Committee in which he served as member.
He urged residents to register in the forthcoming voters registration exercise to enable them vote.

He who praised Tinubu for awarding the contracts for all federal roads in Ekiti State, revealed that 22 Road hospital projects, scholarship scheme, agricultural schemes, social investments, among others, are ongoing while regular salary and empowerment schemes are in place to address the development needs of the people.

He said he was encouraged by Ekiti people's call to continue to serve, stressing that he will work in humility  to ensure that Ekiti people do not know poverty again.

Delivering the President's message, he assured that Nigeria continue to make progress under Tinubu's leadership.

Oyebanji welcomed Olujimi and other new members, assuring that the party would provide them a level-playing field to make them contribute their quota to make the party stronger.

*#EkitiSpeaks*
*#EkitiKeteForPBATAndBAO*

Senator Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed Binani Celebrates Super Falcons' WAFCON 2025 Victory.

Senator Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed Binani Celebrates Super Falcons' WAFCON 2025 Victory.

 

Senator Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed Binani today extended her heartfelt congratulations to the Nigerian Super Falcons on their triumphant victory at the 2025 Women's African Cup of Nations (WAFCON). This remarkable achievement is a testament to the team's dedication, skill, and unwavering spirit.

"The Super Falcons have made Nigeria incredibly proud," Senator Binani stated. "Their performance throughout the tournament, culminating in this glorious win, is a shining example of the strength and resilience of Nigerian women. 

I am particularly thrilled to see the well-deserved recognition of our captain, Rasheedat Ajibade who earned the Woman of the Match award, and our exceptional goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie who was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament. They embody the excellence we know Nigerian women are capable of." We must also salute the goal scorers Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamulusi and Jenifer Echegini. They were all brilliant on the field.

Senator Binani, a staunch advocate for gender mainstreaming and the crucial role of women in national development, emphasized the significance of this victory. "This WAFCON win is not just a sporting achievement; it is a powerful symbol. It demonstrates that when women are given the opportunity, they can excel and achieve greatness in any field. This victory should encourage us all to continue creating spaces for women to thrive in all areas of Nigerian life – in politics, business, sports, and every other endeavor. We must continue to support and empower women to reach their full potential."

The Senator concluded by urging all Nigerians to celebrate this victory and to continue supporting the Super Falcons as they strive for even greater heights. "Let us celebrate this moment and look forward to a future where Nigerian women continue to lead and inspire," she said.

Gani Adams Decries Neglect by Governors, Urges Structured OPC Collaboration to Tackle Insecurity in South-West.

Gani Adams Decries Neglect by Governors, Urges Structured OPC Collaboration to Tackle Insecurity in South-West.                                      By Yusuf Bimbo 

The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has lamented the continued neglect of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) by South-West governors despite the group’s pivotal role in regional security. He called for structured collaboration and increased government support to strengthen grassroots security across the Yoruba nation.

In a bold and passionate address during the National Coordinating Council Meeting of the OPC held in Ekiti State, Iba Gani Adams expressed his displeasure over the failure of the six South-West governors to respond to a formal proposal seeking a partnership between the OPC and the 14-member South-West Security Stakeholders Group (SSSG). He noted that despite repeated appeals, no response has been received, even as the group continues to provide critical security interventions during incidents of kidnapping and banditry.

Adams emphasized that although the OPC is frequently relied upon during attacks, the constitutional responsibility of safeguarding lives and property rests squarely on the shoulders of state governors as the chief security officers. He warned that insecurity in the region may persist unless traditional and grassroots solutions are embraced and adequately supported.

Highlighting the role of traditional institutions, Adams also urged governors to invest in local festivals and culture, noting that over 25 Yoruba cultural festivals annually serve not just as heritage preservation platforms but also as spiritual channels to seek divine intervention for Nigeria’s security crisis.

Speaking earlier, the Ekiti State Coordinator of the OPC, High Chief Idowu Folorunso, appealed to the government to formally recognize and support the OPC in its efforts to complement existing security structures. Folorunso, who also serves as the Akoda Awo of Ado Ekiti and National FinancialSecretary International Ifa/Orisa Spirituality, praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his continued support and described him as a reliable ally in the fight against insecurity.

He also lauded the leadership of Iba Gani Adams, describing him as a visionary whose influence has continued to unify and strengthen the group across the region. Folorunso encouraged OPC members not to be discouraged by misconceptions about the organization, stating that the group remains fully active and committed to safeguarding lives and preserving Yoruba culture.

Also speaking, former Ekiti State OPC Coordinator, Comrade Olusola Ojo, described Gani Adams’ visit as a “memorable and unifying moment” that helped resolve internal leadership challenges within the state chapter. He said the visit will foster greater collaboration among members and deepen the organization’s impact.

Also speaking at the meeting were Chief Okebiorun Omosola, Chief Adedeji Olusola (Abuja Coordinator), and Chief Asikolaye Dauda (National Administrative Officer), among others, who all echoed their support for stronger recognition of OPC’s role in regional peacebuilding and cultural identity.

The Owa of Ijero-Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adebayo Adewole, also lent his voice in praise of the OPC. He applauded the group’s commitment to preserving Yoruba culture and supporting traditional rulers, and described Iba Gani Adams as “a divine gift to the Yoruba race.”

The event underscored the OPC’s unwavering resolve to remain a strong pillar in security, cultural preservation, and youth empowerment, while calling on key stakeholders across the region to embrace indigenous models in confronting the nation’s security challenges.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Ekiti State Tourism Bureau, Wale Ojo Lanre, applauded the OPC for its efforts in promoting Yoruba identity and community development.

Ojo Lanre dismissed long-standing stereotypes labeling OPC members as “thugs,” noting that professionals such as professors, lawyers, and medical doctors are among the organization’s members.

“If we abandon our traditions, foreigners will commercialize them, and we will end up paying to see what rightfully belongs to us.That is why we are reviving festivals across the South West to preserve our heritage,” he said.

Others pictures of the event are below: