Oyebanji Cautions Against Politicizing Ekiti Federal Roads.

Oyebanji Cautions Against Politicizing Ekiti Federal Roads.

…Says President Tinubu Has Been Fair to Ekiti State.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has warned distractors against discrediting the Federal Government on the state of federal roads in the state, noting that all challenges cannot be surmounted overnight.

Speaking at the 2025 Udiroko Festival in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, Governor Oyebanji expressed displeasure at the narrative that the Federal Government has abandoned Ekiti State in view of the deplorable state of the Ado-Aramoko-Itawure road.

The Governor said distractors are aware that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu- led Federal Government has awarded the construction of Ado- Ikere- Akure road, Ado-Ijan-Iluomoba road which are currently under construction, but are on the mission to discredit the President because of Ado-Aramoko-Itawure road which has not been awarded for construction.

He explained that the ongoing construction of the two federal roads in the state is an indication that the President loves Ekiti State but cannot attend to all requests at a go. He added that the State has also completed the reconstruction of the Ado- Iworoko- Ifaki federal road to complement efforts of the Federal Government. 

While stressing that Ekiti State remains eternally grateful to the President, Governor Oyebanji said, “let me use this opportunity to tell Ekiti people that the President of this country is supportive of Ekiti State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is doing everything humanly possible for the State and I stand here to give testimony to that. The President has supported us a lot but it is not possible for him to solve all our problems in two years.

“As I speak today, the construction of Ado-Ikere-Itaogbolu-Akure road is ongoing, also the Ado-Ijan-Iluomoba road has been awarded, while the state has also completed the reconstruction of the Ado- Iworoko- Ifaki federal road to complement the efforts of the federal government. it is unfair for any Ekiti indigene to use the condition of Aramoko-Itawure road to measure this government. Ekiti People are not ingrates, we reject that narrative and we say the President is supporting us and Ekiti people are in support of the President”, he added. 

While congratulating the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe for the 2025 Udiroko festival, the Governor, who lauded the monarch’s efforts in fostering peace, unity and cultural heritage of Ado Ekiti, described the royal father as a symbol of wisdom and an embodiment of Ekiti rich cultural heritage.

Governor Oyebanji said the reign of the monarch has brought remarkable progress to Ado-Ekiti and the state at large, emphasizing that Udiroko festival remains a testament to the monarch’s visionary leadership, which has sustained the Ekiti tradition in a modern society.

 “ I congratulate Kabiyesi, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti for the development you have brought to the State capital and Ekiti state at large. I thank you for your commitment to the development of Ado and the state in general, you are one Oba who love Ekiti with every fibre in you and am grateful to you for the support you have given to our government. Thank you for being a father indeed”.  The governor said.

In his addresss, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe noted that Udiroko Festival has been transformed from its traditional view to a dynamic platform for community development and engagement serving as an avenue to reflect on the collective Journey of Ado Ekiti people, evaluate progress, as well as envision a future that is in tandem with the values of unity, growth, adaptability and development.

Oba Adejugbe, who hailed Governor Oyebanji for his unwavering commitment and concrete policy drive towards good governance, accountability and effective service delivery added that Udiroko remains the springboard for many developmental projects over the years including the construction of the Great Fajuyi Hall, modern palace, a modern architectural amphitheater among many others, all of which have transformed the city into a tourist attraction.

The Monarch further commended the Governor on his various efforts to facilitate development programme to the state with visible impacts in the socio-economic, political and cultural life of the state which has brought massive gains to the people.

He highlighted some of the landmark achievements of Governor Oyebanji to include legacy projects such as Agro-allied International airport which has opened Ekiti State to the world, effective linkage roads through the ring roads that navigate the state capital facilitating easy inter and intra-city/town movement,  construction of an overhead bridge to give Ado-Ekiti a befitting status as the capital of Ekiti State among others.

Oba Adejugbe called on all political actors in the state to work towards  peaceful coexistence and not to see political position as a do or die affair, stressing the need to respect the preference of the people for the collective development of Ekiti State in particular and Nigeria in general.

He also commended President Bola Tinubu for the far-reaching reforms he has introduced to bring succour to Nigerians using the platform of the festival to appeal to the people to endure the initial pains that may feel, adding that he was sure the gains of the reforms would be enduring . 

Also at the event were, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, Wife of the Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; former Governor Niyi Adebayo, Former Governor Ayodele Fayose, former and serving members of the National Assembly, former and serving members of the state house of assembly, members of the state Executive Council, among others.

Senator Adaramodu Urges Ekiti South Constituents to Collect PVCs as INEC Begins registration and revalidation Exercise.

Senator Adaramodu Urges Ekiti South Constituents to Collect PVCs as INEC Begins registration and revalidation Exercise.

Senator Yemi Adaramodu, representing Ekiti South Senatorial District, has called on all eligible constituents to actively participate in the ongoing registration and revalidation exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and ensure they collect and register their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

Speaking in his capacity as the representative of Ekiti South constituents and the spokesperson of the 10th Nigerian Senate, Senator Adaramodu emphasized that the PVC remains the most powerful tool for citizens to shape the future of governance. He described it as essential for sustaining the momentum of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, to consolidate the reforms going on across all sectors of the nation's governance, as well as to ensure the continuity of the developmental strides under Governor Biodun Oyebanji and Deputy Governor Monisade Christiana Afuye BAO/MCA in Ekiti State under the platform of the All Progressives Congress, APC beyond 2026 and 2027, respectively.

“The PVC is not just a card—it is the voice of the people and the foundation of democratic continuity,” Adaramodu stated, urging constituents to seize the opportunity to register and revalidate their voter information.

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.