Ekiti Deputy Gov Salutes Security Agencies For Improved Safety of Citizens, Businesses.

Ekiti Deputy Gov Salutes Security Agencies For Improved  Safety of Citizens, Businesses.

...decorates her convoy commander with new rank.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has commended the security networks operating in the state for forming a strong synergy to foster security of lives, property and businesses for improved economy and standards of living of the populace.

Mrs Afuye said their collective  contributions to water-forced security, remarkably responsible for the favourable rating Ekiti enjoys as having an investment-friendly ambience and peaceful for human habitation.

The Deputy Governor, gave the commendations, in her office in Ado Ekiti, on Tuesday, while decorating one of her security personnel and Convoy Commander , Mr. Kabir Issa, with the new rank of Assistant superintendent of Police(ASP).

Mrs Afuye, in a statement signed by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, congratulated the officer for his new rank and  expressed delight over the existing working relationships among the security agencies in Ekiti, especially those that were attached to  her office.

'I have no regret working with all the security personnel attached to my office. They have been effective and trustworthy in the discharge of their duties. The  fact that I have not changed any of these personnel since I came into this office shows that you are doing greatly well. I am happy with you and I congratulate all of you".

The Deputy Governor disclosed that the readiness of Governor Biodun Oyebanji to synergise with security  chiefs has paid off, saying this has reflected in the influx of investors into the state to radicalise businesses and ensure improved delivery by ways of effective patrol and arrest of those with criminal tendencies. 

On the promotion, the Deputy Governor, commended Mr. Issa for his dedication to duties that earned him the elevation, describing this a as a call to duty and impetus that should make him to further discharge his roles more dutifully and zealously.

She urged the security outfits to sustain the tempo of cooperation and mutual trust among them to wipe out occasional cases of criminalities being witnessed in some sections of the state.

"You can all attest to the fact that Governor Biodun Oyebanji has really demonstrated leadership by being responsive to the security situations in our dear state. This he achieved by his support for security agencies and their chiefs to ensure effective patrol, arrest and diligent prosecution of offenders.

"We want to assure you that this goverment  will continue to prioritize security of lives as a component of good governance pillar in the six-point agenda of Governor Biodun Oyebanji's administration.

" It is when we enjoy security that businesses can improve and this will make our people to sleep with their two eyes closed, get employment, income and improved standards of living. We commend our security agencies for doing well and we wish them God's protection always".

The symbolic decoration was supervised by Commander, 33 Mobile Police Force , Mr. Titus Ayodeji and witnessed by other top security officers  as well as men of the Nigeria Police Force.

Igede Indigenes in Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Honour NULGE Chairman, Comrade Aina Olawole Festus, for Exemplary Service.

Igede Indigenes in Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Honour NULGE Chairman, Comrade Aina Olawole Festus, for Exemplary Service.

By Asubiojo G.O 

It was a day of glowing tributes and heartfelt appreciation on Monday as Igede indigenes working in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Ekiti State, under the leadership of Ambassador Yemi Fagbuji, honoured the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) in the council, Comrade Aina Olawole Festus, for his sterling leadership and remarkable contributions to staff welfare.

Presenting a specially packaged gift on behalf of the Igede indigenes, Ambassador Fagbuji described Comrade Aina as “a rare breed of leader whose dedication, selflessness and foresight have transformed NULGE into a vibrant, united and effective union in the local government.”

According to him, Comrade Aina’s achievements include the construction of the befitting NULGE Hall, provision of affordable toilets for staff, consistent and diligent representation of members’ interests, promotion of unity and love among workers, effective coordination of union activities, and the institutionalisation of the yearly NULGE Week in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government.

 “We are not just celebrating a union leader; we are celebrating a builder, a bridge of unity, and a dependable voice for the staff. His track record is a clear testament that leadership is about service, sacrifice and genuine concern for people,” Ambassador Fagbuji said.

The presentation drew thunderous applause from staff, many of whom expressed heartfelt gratitude for the chairman’s commitment to their welfare and harmonious coexistence within the council.

Responding, Comrade Aina Olawole Festus expressed appreciation to Ambassador Fagbuji and the Igede indigenes for the honour, describing the gesture as a strong motivation to do more.

 “This is humbling. It shows that people are watching and appreciating. I assure you that I will continue to represent your interests without fear or favour, and together, we will keep building an inclusive, united and progressive NULGE in Irepodun/Ifelodun LG,” he said.

Speaking after the presentation, the Head of Local Government Administration (HLA), Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, praised Comrade Aina’s leadership style, describing him as “a dynamic and people-focused leader who has consistently shown that staff welfare and unity are his top priorities.”

 “We have seen the positive change under his leadership. The staff love him because he stands for them, and he delivers on his promises. This recognition is well deserved,” the HLA said.

Also lending his voice, the Director of Information and Civic Orientation Department  and a former NULGE Chairman of the council — Mr. Asubiojo, commended Comrade Aina for sustaining and even surpassing the legacy of past leaders.

“Leadership is about continuity, and I am proud that Comrade Aina has not only upheld the ideals of NULGE but has taken them to new heights. He is a model for younger union leaders to emulate,” he said.

The event ended in an atmosphere of camaraderie and joy, as staff gathered to celebrate a leader whose impact, they say, will be felt for many years to come.

Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Holds Quarterly Meeting, HLA Urges Discipline, Professionalism.

Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Holds Quarterly Meeting, HLA Urges Discipline, Professionalism.

By Asubiojo G.O 

The management of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Ekiti State, on Monday, held its quarterly administrative meeting with staff at the council secretariat, Igede-Ekiti.

The meeting, which commenced at 9:00 a.m., was presided over by the Head of Local Government Administration (HLA), Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, and focused on critical administrative, welfare, and professional issues affecting the council.

In her address, Akinbobola expressed appreciation to the staff for their support and cooperation since she assumed office, urging them to sustain their commitment to duty through discipline, punctuality, and adherence to civil service ethics.

Head of Local Government Administration (HLA), Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B

She stressed the need for workers to maintain the official 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. work schedule, stay conversant with departmental activities, avoid insubordination, and remain apolitical while being loyal to the government in power.

The HLA also advised staff to prioritize personal health and hygiene, eat balanced diets, undergo regular medical check-ups, and keep their offices and surroundings clean.

While commending the Executive Chairman, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga (Chenco), for his “pragmatic leadership” and improvements in the Primary Health Care (PHC) department — including the provision of essential drugs, medical facilities, and eyeglasses — she assured workers that management remained committed to their welfare despite the impact of the global economic downturn on internally generated revenue (IGR).

Akinbobola further encouraged staff to remain steadfast in supporting the people-oriented administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, noting that his developmental strides across the state have been positively felt at the grassroots. She also lauded Hon. Chenco’s tireless efforts in driving progress within the local government, urging all workers to continue giving their best to complement the visions of both leaders.

On the forthcoming Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) Week, Akinbobola urged full cooperation from staff to make the celebration memorable. She reiterated her open-door policy, encouraging staff to adopt a professional and logical approach to resolving workplace issues.

A major highlight of the meeting was the presentation of a portrait photograph to the NULGE Chairman, Comrade Aina Olawole Festus, to commemorate his birthday celebrated in July — an act that further strengthened the cordial relationship among staff.

Responding, the NULGE Chairman commended Akinbobola’s “motherly leadership” and dedication to staff welfare. He called for the provision of more work tools, the introduction of a “Best Staff of the Month” award, access to soft loans through the Loans Board, and the renovation of abandoned staff quarters for use by non-resident workers.

NULGE Chairman, Comrade Aina Olawole Festus.

Aina pledged that workers would improve in punctuality, attendance, and efficiency, assuring management of their cooperation.

The meeting was attended by departmental directors and deputies, NULGE executives, spiritual leaders led by Pastor Blessing Olowoloba, and the entire staff of the local government.

EKSU VC, Community Celebrate Senate Leader Bamidele on Birthday.

EKSU VC, Community Celebrate Senate Leader Bamidele on Birthday.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The Vice Chancellor, Professor Babatola Ayodele, on behalf of the Governing Council, Senate, Staff and Students of Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, has felicitated the Senate leader and Senator representing Ekiti Central Senatorial District, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (MOB) on his birthday.   

  

The Vice Chancellor noted with delight the lasting impact of the Senator on education and community development as demonstrated through his various interventions in the university.  

  

He saluted Senator Bamidele for his unwavering commitment to the peace, unity and development of Ekiti State and Nigeria at large, which would continue to inspire many people. According to the Vice Chancellor, "Your exemplary leadership, humility, and dedication to democratic ideals have left an enduring impact on our  university and Ekiti State, in general.   

  

He recalled, on a note of gratitude, his sponsorship and facilitation of transformative projects in the university, such as:  well-furnished Medical Students' Hostels; construction of road; building of an FM radio station, among others.  

  

The statement, signed by the Deputy Registrar and Head of the Directorate of Information and Corporate Affairs, Dr. Bode Olofinmuagun, further noted that Bamidele’s efforts continue to inspire many within and outside the academic community.

EKITI 2026: Oyebanji At APC Secretariat, Formally Declares Intention to Run for Secord Term.

EKITI 2026: Oyebanji At APC Secretariat, Formally Declares Intention to Run for Secord Term.

…Reiterates commitment to internal democracy in the party.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has formally declared his intention to seek a second term in office, following an overwhelming wave of public endorsement and political support across the state in recent times.

Governor Oyebanji, who made his intention known on Monday during a meeting with members of the Central Working Committee of the All Progressive Congress (APC) held at the Party Secretariat in Ado-Ekiti, cited the need to consolidate on the gains of his first administration and to continue delivering quality governance as well as the encouragement and overwhelming support he had received across the state which include traditional rulers, professional bodies, civil servants, artisans, youth groups, market women, drivers unions and political leaders across party lines.

Expressing his appreciation to the party leadership for their trust and confidence in his administration and highlighting his administration’s achievements in less than three years in office, Governor Oyebanji maintained that he has fulfilled all his campaign promises to the party leadership and the people of Ekiti State.

While emphasizing his commitment to the principles of democracy and internal democracy within the party, the Governor noted that the APC in Ekiti remains one big family, stressing that there is no division in the party.

Governor Oyebanji, who also reaffirmed his loyalty and respect for former governors of the State, who he described as “the leaders of the party”, noted that their contribution to the growth and stability of the APC in Ekiti remain invaluable. He assured that his administration would continue to accord them the honour and recognition they deserve as elder statesmen and foundational pillars of the party.

The Governor assured the party leadership that his government would ensure that APC remains attractive to the people. He also said that any interested governorship aspirant within the party is free to contest for the party’s ticket.

He urged Ekiti citizens to obtain their Permanent Voters Cards (PVC) ahead of the June 2026 governorship election in order to be able to vote and ensure that their voices are heard. He also thanked the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support for Ekiti State. He said the President’s economic

Policies has helped the state develop more rapidly. 

"Let me start by appreciating you, thank you for your support, endurance and for holding the party, on behalf of myself, the Deputy Governor and other political office holders, we are extremely grateful for your prayers and understanding and I also thank you on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the endorsement.

“Let me also assure you that there is no crisis in the leadership of APC, our topmost leader is former Governor Niyi Adebayo, followed by former Governor Kayode Fayemi. There is no crisis in the leadership.

“I will also use this opportunity to inform you that I have listened to you and I am formally informing the party that I will run for second term. So, I plead for your support and prayers and by His grace I will continue to respect you”. The Governor affirmed.

The Governor’s declaration was greeted with a thunderous applause by those in attendance at the meeting. 

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Ekiti, Barrister Sola Elesin commended Governor Oyebanji for his leadership style and commitment to the growth and development of the state and the party. He described the Governor as a unifying figure whose humility, accessibility, and performance in office had endeared him to party members ,Ekiti leaders and the general public.

The Chairman explained that the party remains stronger and united under Oyebanji’s leadership, adding that the peaceful atmosphere in the party was a result of the Governor’s inclusive approach and respect for party structure.

Also at the meeting were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo; Special Adviser Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe, among others.

Ekiti Airport project, a collective decision of the people - Gov Oyebanji.

Ekiti Airport project, a collective decision of the people - Gov Oyebanji.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has said that the Ekiti Airport project is a product of a collective decision by Ekiti leaders and stakeholders to open up the state to the world. 

Similarly, the Governor said the Federal Government is responding positively to the yearnings of the people by fixing three of the six federal roads in the state, while the state government has also fixed one. 

Governor Oyebanji, who disclosed this at an event commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Chief Imam of Ado- Ekiti, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello in Ado Ekiti on Saturday, urged the citizens to show understanding for the Government, stressing that the Federal Government had given assurances on the roads, while his government would also continue to invest in road and power infrastructure to boost the economy . 

The Ekiti Agro Allied International Airport, was given Approval for six-month non-scheduled flight last December, while approval for commercial flight operation Is currently being awaited.

Governor Oyebanji, While setting the record straight, said the airport project was a collective decision of the Ekiti people, adding that the airport committee was headed by Aare Afe Babalola (SAN). He added that the airport was designed to open up the state to the world. 

On the state of federal roads in the state, Governor Oyebanji commended President Tinubu for his unwavering support for the state and for the demonstrated efforts at fixing the roads, which had culminated in the contractual awards of three of the roads. He called on the people to show understanding for the Government, assuring that construction work would soon commence on the two other road projects, while the Ado- ikere- Akure road was on the verge of being completed. 

While congratulating the celebrant, Sheikh Kewulere Bello for working for God in the past 40 years, Governor Oyebanji, described him as a good ambassador of Ekiti state and the Muslim faith who has the fear of God in his heart and always strive day and night for the common good of the State.

He expressed his appreciation to the CAN President in Ekiti, Rev Emmanuel  Aribasoye for joining the Chief Imam in the celebration and for working together with the leadership of the Muslim community to enhance peace and unity of purpose among all the faiths in Ekiti. 

“I congratulate you Baba for this celebration and my prayer is that Allah will grant you long life and as you labour  in the vineyard of Allah, Allah will compensate you for all the good work you do for the State and the Muslim community.

“Let me use this occasion to extend my appreciation to my Muslim brothers and sisters in Ekiti State, I thank you so much for your understanding, I thank you so much for your support, I thank you so much for your trust, I can't wish for a better relationship than what we have in Ekiti State. You have maintained absolute peace even at the moment of tension, because you know Baba will find a way of resolving any issue and that explains why Ekiti is peaceful and we are progressing.” He said.

Oyebanji Installs New Elesun, Urges Traditional Rulers To Propel Rural Devt Agenda.

Oyebanji Installs New Elesun, Urges Traditional Rulers To Propel Rural Devt Agenda.

The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has installed the new Elesun of Esun Ekiti in Ikole Local Government Area of the State, Oba Bankole Adesesan Ilugbusi, with a passionate plea to traditional rulers to key into his administrations prioritised development agenda at the grassroots level. 

The governor clarified that propelling his rural development agenda will vividly manifest when the royal fathers aggressively pursue unity, fairness and security in their respective domains. 

Governor Oyebanji gave the charge  in Esun Ekiti, on Saturday, while presenting the instrument of Appointment and Staff of Office to the new royal father of the community, after ascending the throne of his forebears.

The new monarch, Oba Ilugbusi, is from Atiba Royal Dynasty of Esun Ekiti, which the stool  became vacant, following the demise of Oba Babatunde Ogunsakin, who was shot dead by unknown gunmen along Ipao-Oke Ako-Irele road in 2024.

Addressing the ecstatic community members,  Oyebanji, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, condoled with the town on the abrupt demise of the immediate past monarch, Oba Ogunsakin.

The governor said the controversial and agonizing circumstances under which Oba Ogunsakin was killed was heart-rending and sad, praying to God to grant the community the fortitude to bear the loss of the charismatic traditional ruler.

Speaking about ascendancy to the traditional stool, Governor Oyebanji maintained that  he neither interfered in the selection process, nor imposed any candidate on the town, saying maintaining neutrality in filling vacant positions remains the hallmark of his government.

He clarified further that the approval of the new Elesun was undertaken in accordance with the customs and traditions of the kingdom, promising to work with the monarch to bring development to Esun axis by tackling the challenges of insecurity confronting around environs.

“Kabiyesi, you are now the prescribed authority in Esun Ekiti, don’t make anybody your enemy. Work with all your subjects to make meaningful development in this town. I also plead with all the chiefs to respect the authority of the new monarch. Don’t disrespect him.

“I know that the traditional rulers play significant roles in sustaining and maintaining our culture and traditions. I want you to work with my government to ensure that all our towns are effectively secured and developed.

“We have a rural policy that we are championing, I want you to support us, so that this can gain grounds at the grassroots”, Oyebanji stated .

 In his submission at the colourful ceremony, the Commissioner for chieftaincy and Home Affairs, Hon. Ojo Atibioke, commended Governor Oyebanji for being steadfast in his commitment to fill any vacant stool in the state within a spate of two years. 

Atibioke, who urged the monarch to always consult widely with his subjects  before taking critical decisions, described the process leading to the emergence of the monarch as transparent and devoid of imposition.

The commissioner commended the town for appointing a new king without any bad blood and rancour, saying this further testified to the fact that Emure people are united and development- driven.

“You may not know the import of what you are doing today, some towns have not been able to fill such vacancies for a period of 25 years. This showed that you are united. I want all of you to cooperate with the Royal Majesty for his reign to bring successes and blessings to his domain”.

In his acceptance speech, Oba Ilugbusi, saluted the state government and the kingmakers for being painstaking and transparent in the selection process, assuring that he will work assiduously to attract laudable projects to the town.

Oba Ilugbusi, who promised to work zealously to unite the town and form a strong synergy with the government , stated that he was thrilled that he emergence symbolized equity, fairness and justice, which makes his acceptance more electrifying.

The monarch assured his subjects that he will.make a remarkable difference in their lives, by pursuing unity of purpose and development among , saying nobody will be alienated nor sidelined in his development projects. 

“During my reign, Esun Ekiti will experience peace and progress. The welfare, wellness and wellbeing of every indigene will be our top priority, irrespective of religious belief , social.or cultural backgrounds, or political affiliation.

“Esun Ekiti Development Agenda with emphasis on Youth development will be initiated. We will focus on building a strong nexus among the various quarters in the town, revitalizing the mutual love and peaceful coexistence upon  which our town was founded”.