Ekiti Assembly Delegation Visits Agbeyewa Farms, Commends Agricultural Investments.

Ekiti Assembly Delegation Visits Agbeyewa Farms, Commends Agricultural Investments.

 

The Ekiti State House of Assembly, led by its Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, today paid an official visit to Agbeyewa Farms, the largest private agro-allied investments in Ekiti State.

The delegation, which included principal officers and lawmakers across various constituencies, were warmly received by the Managing Director/CEO of Agbeyewa Farms, Oska Seyi Aiyeleso, alongside senior management staff. The visit commenced with a colorful parade mounted by NYSC Corps members serving on the farm, creating an atmosphere of enthusiasm and celebration.

In his welcome address, Mr. Aiyeleso expressed gratitude to the legislators for taking out time to visit, noting that their presence was a strong show of support for private investment and agribusiness in Ekiti. He highlighted the farm’s ongoing projects in Cassava cultivation, aggregation, processing. agro-trading and community empowerment, Stressing that Agbeyewa Farms was committed to food security, youth employment, and economic transformation of Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole.

In his welcome address, Mr. Aiyeleso expressed gratitude to the legislators for taking out time to visit, noting that their presence was a strong show of support for private investment and agribusiness in Ekiti. He highlighted the farm’s ongoing projects in Cassava cultivation, aggregation, processing.  agro-trading and community empowerment, Stressing that Agbeyewa Farms was committed to food security, youth employment, and economic transformation of Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole.

In his response, the Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Aribasoye, commended Agbeyewa Farms for its massive investment and foresight in agricultural development. He noted that the project aligns with the vision of the Ekiti State Government under Governor Biodun Oyebanji to position agriculture as the bedrock of economic growth and job creation.

“We are impressed by the scale of investment we have seen here today. Agbeyewa Farms is not only contributing to food production but is also creating jobs for our people and adding value to the economy of Ekiti State. The House of Assembly will continue to support initiatives like this that place Ekiti on the map of agribusiness excellence,” he said.

During the tour of the expansive farm facilities, both at Ipao axis and Gede/Iyemero, the lawmakers were briefed on the farm’s mechanized systems, upcoming modern processing facilities, and sustainable agricultural practices. The delegation also interacted with local workers, NYSC Corps members, and technical staff, who shared testimonies of how the farm has positively impacted their livelihoods.

Agbeyewa Farms, a subsidiary of Cavista Holdings, has continued to position itself as a key player in agribusiness, promoting innovation, sustainability, and community development. The visit by the Ekiti State House of Assembly further strengthens the partnership between government institutions and private investors in driving development across the state.

Barrister Aluko Advocates Collective Support for Systemic Progress in Local Government Service.

Barrister Aluko Advocates Collective Support for Systemic Progress in Local Government Service.

...Back Oyebanji’s Reforms.

By Asubiojo G.O

The newly deployed Executive Zonal Inspector for Ekiti Central in the Local Government Service Commission, Barrister Ayodele Aluko, has charged workers of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government to prioritize discipline, punctuality, and dedication to duty above political distractions.

Aluko gave the charge during his maiden meeting with the council’s staff and directors, where he warned against lateness, absenteeism, and the misuse of social media to malign government officials or policies. Instead, he urged workers to promote the achievements of the present administration.

“As a union leader, I will always support the legitimate demands of workers. But it is equally important that we stand with Governor Oyebanji in his pursuit of good governance,” he said.

The inspector applauded Governor Biodun Oyebanji for placing workers’ welfare at the center of his administration. He listed some of the governor’s interventions to include:

●Regular payment of salaries before month-end.

●Settlement of outstanding arrears and deductions.

●Prompt payment of leave bonuses.

●Training and retraining programmes for staff.

●Timely promotions, conversions, and upgrading of workers.

Improved welfare packages for local government employees.

Aluko also expressed delight over the ongoing renovation of the Traditional Council Chambers, describing it as a reflection of Governor Oyebanji’s respect for culture and tradition.

He commended the Department of Agriculture for its efforts at boosting the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the local government through the cultivation of oil palm, cocoa, and orange seedlings, as well as piggery, poultry, and root crop farms. He encouraged other councils in Ekiti to emulate the initiative.

In his remarks, the Executive Chairman of the council, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga (popularly known as CHENCO), described Aluko as a pragmatic leader with professional acumen capable of inspiring systemic growth in the service.

He noted that Oyebanji’s reforms had brought relief to local government workers and gave updates on ongoing projects, including the reconstruction of lock-up shops at EBHS (80% completion), renovation of the Traditional Council Chambers (75% completion), and procurement of office equipment for improved service delivery.

Also speaking, the Head of Local Government Administration (HLA), Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, thanked Aluko for his guidance and appreciated the chairman for prioritizing staff welfare, pledging continued loyalty to the state government.

Other dignitaries at the meeting included the Vice Chairman, Hon. Engr. Remi Alade; Executive Secretary, Hon. Dr. Sule Olatunji-F; Supervisor for Agriculture and Natural Services, Hon. Olubuyide Ayodeji; and all departmental directors.

Abbey Awesome Storms Ado-Ekiti to Light Up Town Tavern Lounge Ahead of Grand Opening.

Abbey Awesome Storms Ado-Ekiti to Light Up Town Tavern Lounge Ahead of Grand Opening.

Ado-Ekiti is set to witness a major entertainment boost as popular Juju maestro, Abiodun Awesola, popularly known as Abbey Awesome, storms the city for a special pre-opening showcase of Town Tavern Lounge, one of the newest and biggest hospitality spots in the state capital.

Scheduled for August 20, 2025, the event coincides with the colourful annual Udiroko Festival, offering residents and visitors a rare blend of cultural heritage and premium entertainment in one unforgettable night.

Strategically and conspicuously located at Km 8, beside Pastoral Centre, off Ikere Road, Ado-Ekiti, Town Tavern Lounge is owned by entertainment-loving couple, Mr. and Mrs. Taiwo & Omolola Olorunbukunmi, who described it as a state-of-the-art leisure and lifestyle destination designed to redefine nightlife in Ekiti.

With its modern architecture, soothing ambience, top-quality sound systems, football pitch, curated drinks and VIP-style services; all in a secure environment, the lounge manage by Mister Heybee Hospitality Solution, promises a refreshing night-time experience for fun lovers. To mark the opening, entry has been made completely free.

As anticipation for the full grand opening gathers momentum, Town Tavern Lounge is poised to offer a seamless hospitality treat to tourists and fun-seekers in Ekiti. All staff are specially trained by Mister Heybee Hospitality Solution under a customised service culture known as “S.T.A.R” (Smile – Take Responsibility – Anticipate Customers’ Request – Respond Quickly), geared towards delivering world-class guest satisfaction. 

The timing of the event which coincide with Udiroko; a festival celebrated for its cultural storytelling, rites, and communal celebration, underscores the organisers’ desire to fuse traditional glamour with contemporary entertainment, making the show attractive to both youth and culture enthusiasts.

Expectations are high that the Town Tavern Lounge will not only elevate Ado-Ekiti’s social scene, but also stimulate tourism, hospitality and small businesses within the Ikere Road axis and its environs.

As the countdown begins, Abbey Awesome, presence in Ado-Ekiti is already generating excitement among fanals, music aficionados and nightlife lovers to witness a high-octane performance that will light up the new venue.

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI CONDONES WITH KOGI GOV ODODO OVER FATHER’S DEATH.

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI CONDONES WITH KOGI GOV ODODO OVER FATHER’S DEATH.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has expressed condolences to his Kogi State counterpart, Usman Ododo on the passing of his father, Alhaji Ahmed Momoh Sani Ododo. 

Alhaji Ahmed Momoh Sani Ododo died on Monday. He was aged 83 years. 

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Chief Prese Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, said his thoughts and prayers, as well as those of the Government and people of Ekiti State are with Governor Ododo at this critical moment.

Noting that losing one’s parents is always a sorrowful experience regardless of how old they are, Governor Oyebanji urged Governor Ododo to be consoled by the fact his late father lived a good life and left behind legacies of integrity and service. 

The Ekiti State Governor prayed that Allah would grant the deceased al-jannah Firdaus and grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. 

“On behalf of my family, the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I condone with my dear brother, Governor Usman Ododo on the demise of his father. Our prayer is that Allah would grant Baba eternal rest and strengthen the entire family”, the statement added.

OYEBANJI CONDOLES WITH APC NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, YILWATDA ON MOTHER’S DEATH.

OYEBANJI CONDOLES WITH APC NATIONAL CHAIRMAN, YILWATDA ON MOTHER’S DEATH. 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed condolences to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, on the passing of his mother, Mrs. Lydia Yilwatda. 

The late Lydia Yilwatda, aged 83 years, passed on Saturday after a brief illness. 

Governor Oyebanji, in a condolence message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, described Mrs. Yilwatda as a loving mother and a champion of good causes, whose death would leave a void that would be difficult to fill. 

Governor Oyebanji described the deceased as a community leader and a virtuous woman, adding that the late Mrs Yilwatda would be sorely missed for her wise counsel and motherly care. 

Governor Oyebanji urged Prof Yilwatda and the entire family, to see the death of their matriarch as a glorious home coming, worthy of celebration, having lived an impactful life of selfless service. 

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this period. Mama fought a good fight of faith and has gone home to rest. May God grant her eternal rest. 

“On behalf of the Government and people of Ekiti State, we commiserate with the National Chairman of our great party, APC, Prof Yilwatda on the passing of his mother. Our prayer is that God will grant him and the entire family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss “, the Governor said.

CABINET DISSOLUTION: OYEBANJI RECALLS OLATUNBOSUN.

CABINET DISSOLUTION: OYEBANJI RECALLS OLATUNBOSUN.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has recalled former Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon Taiwo Olatunbosun back to the state executive council.

The development came barely a week after the Governor announced the dissolution of the state executive council. 

Olatunbosun, according to the recall letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habaibat Adubiaro, and dated August 18, 2025, is to continue to function as Commissioner for Information.

The recall is with immediate effect. 

Signed: 

Olayinka Oyebode

Chief Press Secretary to the Governor

2026 Gov Poll: Ekiti APC Leaders Insist on Oyebanji/Afuye Joint Ticket.

2026 Gov Poll: Ekiti APC Leaders Insist on Oyebanji/Afuye Joint Ticket.

...APC receives scores of  PDP defectors.

To sustain the tempo of development, peace and  stability and engender campaign strategy that can spin a winning streak, high profile All Progressives Congress  stakeholders in Ekiti State have insisted that Governor Biodun Oyebanji and Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye joint ticket remains the best for the state till 2030.

This was part of the resolutions reached by APC leaders and members across the 11 Wards of Ikere Local Government, at their well attended expanded ward meeting held on 18th August, 2025, held at Ojude BAO , Ikere Ekiti.

At the gathering, the ranks of the party further swelled, as  it received scores of defectors from the major opposition People's Democratic Party and other smaller parties into APC.

The motion for the adoption of Governor Oyebanji and Mrs Afuye was moved by a former member of the National Assembly, Hon Francis Aladejebi and seconded by an ex-Ekiti State House of Assembly Majority Leader, Hon.Kayode  Babade.

Going by the aggregate of the submissions of contributors at the meeting, the stakeholders averred that  they took the action in the overall interest of the state, saying they won't sacrifice the peace and stability of the state on the altar of dirty politics.

The stakeholders, comprising political juggernauts and opinion moulders, in their resolutions, unitedly stood form by the endorsement verdict earlier passed on Governor Oyebanji to run for second term alongside his Deputy, Mrs Afuye to pilot the affairs of the state till 2030.

In a manner suggestive of a passage of vote of confidence in leadership, the APC stalwarts, endorsed and ratified Mrs Afuye's renomination for the  joint ticket with Governor Oyebanji, on account of her unflagging loyalty, sacrifice and competence in service delivery.

In an assertive fashion, the APC leaders stoutly rejected the call for Mrs Afuye's substitution under any guise as being mooted in a certain quarters, saying this may spell doom for the party on account of her loyalty and political strength across strata.

They said: "That the entire leaders/ members of APC in Ikere LG have unshakeable confidence in Governor Biodun Oyebanji/Monisade Afuye's workable joint ticket for another term.

"The unanimous decision stemmed from the rapid development, stability and peace  being witnessed in Ekiti State through the duo's working relationship since October 16,2022.

"We commend Governor Biodun Oyebanji for gleefully accepting Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye's nomination without opposition", they concluded.

During the meeting, a motion for the affirmation of Oyebanji/Afuye's joint ticket and endorsement, was moved by and seconded by

Speaking at the political gathering,  the APC State Chairman, Hon. Sola Elesin, described the deputy Governor as an upright, loyal and straightforward politician, who has worked hard with Governor Oyebanji to ramp  up development in the state.

Elesin also debunked the swirling insinuation that the three most prominent leaders: Governor Oyebanji, former Governors Niyi Adebayo and Dr. Kayode Fayemi are at loggerheads, while puncturing the notion that some APC leaders were contemplating defection to the coalition African Democratic Congress( ADC).

"It was sad that anybody will rise up from Ikere Local Government and said we should drop the Deputy Governor from the joint ticket with Governor Oyebanji. We won't change a winning team and it is on Oyebanji/Afuye joint ticket that we stand. We have not changed at the state level.

"This cheap gossips only exist on social media, we have not heard about it at the state level. Let me also tell you that all our leaders are united and operate in one accord. No faction at all in our party".

Former National Assembly member, Senator Tony Adeniyi, a former Commissioner, Hon. Dapo Karounwi and an APC leader in Ado Local Government, Chief Remi Oguntuase, said it will be calamitous for the ruling party to change a winning team  in 2026 as represented by Oyebanji and Afuye.

Notable lkere APC 

leaders present at the expanded meeting included: Senator Tony Adeniyi, Hon Francis Aladejebi, Engr. Tunde Fakoyede, Hon. Kayode Babade, Engr Bimbo Ogundipe, Otunba Dolamu Adeniyi, Hon Victor Adeniyi, Hon Tunde ldowu, Hon Babatunde Oke, Mr Adeusi Ajogo, Mr Bamidele Bamiko, Squ Ldr Rtd Olu Egbejoda Adamolekun, Hon Rufus Olorunfemi, Chief Temitope ljasan, Barrister Niyi ldowu, Mrs Toyin Afolabi, Hon Sunday Adu, Pastor Oyebode Ebenezer Olukayode, Hon Ojo Tio Adebola, Hon. Sunday Akiniyi, Aare lgbekele Ayodele, Hon Bolu Akomolafe, Dr. Funke Fajobi, Mr Ajayi Daramola, Hon Tokunbo Omotayo, Segun Obanla, Prof Ayodele, Hon Oso Olubayode, Hon Omoyeni, Mrs Kikelomo Babalola, Mr Fatal Bell, Hon Oloko Seun, Councilors Advisers, Supervisors and others.

Also in attendance were leaders and representatives of the Igbo and Ebira communities, Okada Riders, the Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), artisans, and other critical stakeholders.