Group Warns Against Plot to Re-Enact Agbalajobi/Sarumi Scenario in Ekiti APC.

Group Warns Against Plot to Re-Enact Agbalajobi/Sarumi Scenario in Ekiti APC.

The Oyebanji Street Vanguard (OSV), a grassroots mobilization group in Ekiti State, has warned against attempts by some members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to re-enact the political crisis that rocked Lagos State during the 1991 contest between Professor Femi Agbalajobi and Chief Dapo Sarumi.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the group cautioned party members making “inflammatory and unguided” remarks against the National Secretary of the APC, Senator Ajibola Basiru. The group described the attacks as “despicable and condemnable,” stressing that such actions were indirectly targeted at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leader of the ruling party.

The OSV recalled how the rivalry between Agbalajobi and Sarumi over the Social Democratic Party (SDP) ticket in Lagos State led to the disqualification of both aspirants, paving the way for Yomi Edu to emerge as the candidate. The division, the group noted, eventually contributed to the victory of late Sir Michael Otedola of the National Republican Convention (NRC) as governor.

“We must not allow history to repeat itself in Ekiti. Any clandestine attempt to create an Agbalajobi/Sarumi deadlock here is a dead on arrival mission,” the statement read.

The group emphasized that the APC remains the platform of progress for the people of Ekiti and urged party loyalists to uphold respect for the President, the party’s national leadership, and its representatives.

“The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria deserves respect. Our great party, the APC, deserves respect. Every genuine member must imbibe and uphold the supremacy of the party,” OSV stated.

Reaffirming Ekiti’s cultural values, the group added: “We are known for the ethos of Omoluabi as a people, and we must ensure we display this at all times.”

THE KAYODE OJO’S CAMPAIGN OF CALUMNY: SETTING THE RECORDS STRAIGHT.

THE KAYODE OJO’S CAMPAIGN OF CALUMNY: SETTING THE RECORDS STRAIGHT.

 

The Government of Ekiti State recognizes the right of every citizen and aspirant in a democracy to express their views and canvass for support , it also has a responsibility to the good people of Ekiti State to protect the sanctity of truth and the integrity of public information, being the bearers of the people’s mandate to transparently govern. 

Therefore, we are duty- bound and wish to categorically set the records straight regarding some spurious allegations leveled against the administration by the Kayode Ojo Campaign Organization, as follows:

 

1. ON ALLOCATIONS AND UTILISATION OF FUNDS

• The claim that over ₦286.23 billion in federal allocations and ₦70 billion in IGR have been mismanaged is false, misleading, and entirely unsubstantiated. The administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has consistently published audited financial statements, quarterly budget implementation reports, as well as procurement records required by law, and in line with the Open Government Partnership (OGP) commitments. This is why Ekiti State constantly ranks as the best state in fiscal transparency and accountability, and has come first in the last two quarterly rankings carried out by the well-respected BudgIT team.

 

• Major projects across the 16 Local Government Areas — including road construction, school rehabilitation, healthcare facilities, and rural electrification — are being executed with full transparency and due process. As a responsible Government, details of these projects are available on the State’s procurement portal for those who seek additional information. In addition to this, the Government’s unwavering commitment to agriculture has led to preparing over 4,000 hectares of land for farmers, constructing agric clusters for youths in agriculture, and many other interventions designed to make Ekiti, one of the smallest States by land mass, a food basket of the nation. 

 

 

• While our eminent former governors are able to defend themselves, the allegation of paying them between ₦50 million and ₦120 million monthly is not only preposterous but defamatory, and we challenge the Kayode Ojo Campaign to produce any shred of evidence to support this wild claim. 

 

2. ON LOANS AND THE ALLEGED ₦90 BILLION BOND

 

To allege that any bond was arranged in “connivance” with private individuals and an illustrious former Governor of the State is completely unfounded. The claim that Ekiti State took a N90billion bond is not only unsubstantiated but libelous. We challenge these individuals to provide any evidence of such a bond. It is on record that Ekiti’s State domestic debt has reduced from N118 billion in September 2022, to N51 billion as at March 2025, when the most recent domestic debt figures were released, due to the prudent management of the State’s finances. It is therefore ludcirous to suggest that the State has taken a N90 billion bond, when the total domestic debt reported by the Debt Management Office for Ekiti State is only N51 billion.

 

3. ON DELIVERY OF ROAD PROJECTS 

 

Suggesting that 90% of communities in Ado-Ekiti, the State Capital are without motorable roads and electricity supply shows a complete disconnect from facts on ground.

Till date, the State Government has awarded road contracts exceeding N200 billion, covering 350 kilometres across the State. Out of this, over N150 billion has been paid to contractors, with 126 kilometres conpleted, while the balance are at various stages of completion. These roads were carefully selected to connect commercial hubs, large communities, as well as to provide alternatives to Federal roads that are either being repaired or awaiting reconstruction. The overhead bridge project referenced in Ado-Ekiti is ongoing, not stalled, and is being executed in line with the agreed project plan. As at today, the project is at over 60% completion, and will be completed in Q1 2026, which is on track with the expected delivery date. This is outside of the rural agriculture roads being constructed under RAAMP, where 132 kilometres of rural roads are being constructed.

 

 

4. ON WORKERS’ WELFARE

 

Apart from the heavy investment in road infrastructure, the State spends an average of N5 billion per month on salaries and pensions, and has spent N40 billion on this since the beginning of the year. In addition to this, the State has paid N7.5 billion to State retirees and another N4. 3 billion to local government retirees, making a total of N11.8 billion. 

Apart from this, Ekiti State’s faithfully implemented the minimum wage adjustment and now pays an average of N5 billion per month in salaries and pensions. This is in addition to the payment of leave bonuses, and the regular replenishment of various loan schemes.

 

One of Governor Oyebanji’s widely celebrated attributes, especially within the labour community, is his regular engagements and open dialogue with labour leaders, and the associated remarkable record of honouring negotiated agreements.

 

5. ON SECURITY AND POLITICAL TOLERANCE

 

The allegation that supporters of a particular aspirant are being arrested for “fictitious offences” like kidnapping and armed robbery is completely false. Worse still, it casts a dark shadow on the reputation of our dedicated law enforcement agencies, and undermines their genuine efforts at combating crime. Politicisation of serious security matters should be off limits. The Government of Ekiti State does not, and will never direct security agencies to target any citizen for political reasons. 

 

Furthermore, all APC aspirants are free to campaign. There is no restriction, no threat, and no directive against the reception or mobilisation of supporters.

 

6. ON ALLEGED ENDORSEMENT RALLIES

The rallies held across the state are not government-funded but were organised by support groups, trade unions, and grassroots associations who are satisfied with Governor Oyebanji’s leadership and are exercising their constitutional rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.

 

To label these voluntary public endorsements as wasteful “endorsement rallies” is completely inaccurate, and may be interpreted as an attempt to silence the voices of fellow Ekiti people who are exercising their constitutionally guaranteed rights.

 

 

7. OUR POSITION ON THE APC PRIMARIES

Governor Oyebanji remains a loyal party man and has never declared the primary election a “do-or-die” affair. The Governor has expressed, repeatedly, that party supremacy will guide the process, and the choice of the people will prevail. The Governor respects every aspirant’s ambition and will support the party in every way to ensure that the primary election is free, fair, and credible.

 

CONCLUSION

 

This administration welcomes robust debate, but it must be based on facts, not fiction.

 

We call on the good people of Ekiti to remain vigilant, and not be misled by falsehood. 

 

We thank them for their continued support as we press forward in our commitment to their welfare, security, and progress.

 

Ekiti is working, and the Government’s commitment to its vision of shared prosperity is unwavering.

 

 

 

 

Signed:

Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun

Special Adviser to the Governor (Information)

27th August, 2025

AGBEYEWA FARMS EXPLORES COLLABORATIVE OPPORTUNITIES WITH AFE BABALOLA UNIVERSITY.

AGBEYEWA FARMS EXPLORES COLLABORATIVE OPPORTUNITIES WITH AFE BABALOLA UNIVERSITY.

Agbeyewa Farms, led by its Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Oska Seyi Aiyeleso, on Monday paid an official visit to Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), to explore avenues for collaboration in agricultural development. The delegation was warmly received by the University Bursar, Pastor Joseph Babalola.

Welcoming the Agbeyewa team, the Founder of ABUAD, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, engaged the visitors in a robust discussion on agriculture, drawing from his extensive experience in the sector. He highlighted ABUAD’s diverse agricultural initiatives, including a 1,000-hectare farm dedicated to crops such as cassava, vegetables, cashew, and mangoes, alongside livestock projects.

Aare Babalola, a renowned legal luminary and educationist, emphasized the importance of best agronomy practices for improved cassava yields, particularly through proper land preparation. He further commended Agbeyewa Farms for its role in creating employment opportunities within the local community.

Expressing optimism about the visit, Pastor Babalola lauded the impressive reports about Agbeyewa Farms and signaled the university’s willingness to pursue potential collaborations.

In his remarks, Mr. Aiyeleso, having delivered the Chairman, Mr John Olajide goodwill message for the last visit made to Aare a few days ago,  outlined Agbeyewa Farms’ ambitious growth plan, including the cultivation of 5,000 hectares of cassava by 2025, with a projection of expanding to 10,000 hectares by 2026. He noted that the company had increased its cassava varieties from four in 2024 to eight in 2025, including Ayaya, White Lion, TME 419, Dixon, OBJ 1 & 2, Game Changer, Baba 70, and Renewed Hope. With improved agronomic practices and systematic land preparation, the farm is currently achieving yields of up to 30 tons per hectare.

Speaking on the significance of the engagement, Agbeyewa’s General Manager of Farm Operations, Mr. Babatunde Akinsinde, said the visit was part of efforts to strengthen collaboration, particularly in the area of the Outgrowers Scheme for cassava farming.

The visit concluded with a guided tour of ABUAD’s expansive farm facilities, including Phase 1 of the university’s greenhouse projects, which cover crops such as bell peppers, cucumbers, lettuce, and habanero peppers.

On the Agbeyewa team included the Vice-President Operations Anthonia Attoh, Marketing and Communications Manager Rotimi Wusu, IT Specialist Busola Oloyede.

Oluwatuyi Signs GBV Prohibition Law, Vows Strict Enforcement in Irepodun/Ifelodun.

Oluwatuyi Signs GBV Prohibition Law, Vows Strict Enforcement in Irepodun/Ifelodun.

By Asubiojo G.O 

The Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Hon. Gbenga Oluwatuyi, on Monday assented to the Gender-Based Violence (Prohibition) Law 2025, with a pledge to ensure its strict enforcement across the council area.

Oluwatuyi, who signed the bill into law at the council secretariat, described the legislation as a landmark stride in safeguarding lives, rights, and welfare of residents, especially women, children, and other vulnerable groups.

He said, “This law is a bold declaration that our local government will no longer tolerate any form of gender-based violence. It provides the framework to protect victims, punish offenders, and ensure justice. With this, all relevant committees and agencies now have the legal backing to discharge their duties effectively.”

The council boss assured that his administration would drive full implementation of the law, stressing that it was a decisive step toward curbing the rising cases of gender-based violence in the locality.

He commended the council’s Legislative Arm for diligently scrutinizing and passing the bill, saying their commitment ensured the law was enacted without hitches.

In her remarks, the Leader of the House, Hon. Olagunju Yemisi, hailed the development as a major step toward restoring moral values and social order. She noted that the law not only prohibits all forms of gender-based violence but also guarantees maximum protection for victims, effective remedies, and stiffer sanctions for offenders.

With the signing of the bill, Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government has joined the league of councils aligning with both national and global frameworks in combating gender-based violence, promoting dignity, and ensuring security for every citizen.

Group Hails APC Leadership, Declares Oyebanji’s Re-election a “De Javu".

Group Hails APC Leadership, Declares Oyebanji’s Re-election a “De Javu".

The Oyebanji Street Vanguard (OSV), a grassroots mobilisation group, has applauded the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for their confidence in Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s administration, describing his re-election in 2026 as a “de javu” of political continuity.

In a statement signed by its Convener, HC Ade, the group commended Ekiti people for their maturity, resilience, and unflinching support for the present administration, urging them to sustain their doggedness in order to consolidate the State’s development.

The group noted that massive support for Governor Oyebanji’s second term would not only guarantee continuity of good governance in Ekiti but also position the State as a stronghold for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 presidential bid.

Their remarks followed comments credited to the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, who recently declared in an interview with Sunday Sun that the 2026 Ekiti governorship election would be a “walkover” for Oyebanji.

Basiru had dismissed claims of a tough contest in the State, stressing that Oyebanji’s popularity cuts across party ranks. According to him, “even those who have purchased expression of interest and nomination forms should know that there is effectively no vacancy in the Ekiti State Government House.”

He added: “There is no election in Ekiti because Oyebanji is going to continue. The election is going to be a walkover because all the former governors, deputy governors except one, all serving and former senators, are fully with him.”

The APC scribe further noted that Oyebanji’s performance has united the party behind him, adding that even if 10 aspirants contested the primary, the people themselves would reward a performing governor at the polls.

OSV, in its statement, showered encomiums on key leaders including the former Governor and Minister of Trade, Otunba Niyi Adebayo; immediate past Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele; and Minister of Mines and Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, for what it described as coordinated leadership in positioning Ekiti for greater political and economic relevance.

The group stressed that Ekiti’s seamless political transitions and stability under Oyebanji have created the right environment to attract federal projects and foreign direct investment.

“A vote for Governor Abiodun Oyebanji in the 2026 governorship election is a vote for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027,” OSV declared.

“The ship of political, economic, and social development of Ekiti has taken off, no going back. Forward ever, backward never.”

Oyebanji Extends Development Strides to Ekiti South West LGA.

Oyebanji Extends Development Strides to Ekiti South West LGA.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

The Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has further demonstrated his commitment to all-round development with a series of impactful projects executed across Ekiti South West Local Government Area. From education and healthcare to road infrastructure, agriculture, rural development, and workers’ welfare, the Governor’s footprint is visible in every sector, reinforcing his pledge that no Local Government in Ekiti State will be left behind.

In line with his administration’s pro-people agenda, Governor Oyebanji approved the payment of ₦1.1 billion in pensions to 672 pensioners and ₦239.4 million in gratuities to 83 retirees in the LGA. This, according to government sources, reflects his commitment to the welfare of senior citizens and the sustenance of dignity in retirement.

The education sector in the LGA has received attention with the construction and renovation of blocks of classrooms, offices, and facilities in schools located in Ilawe, Igbara Odo, and Ogotun. These interventions aim to enhance learning environments and promote quality education for students in the communities.

Health facilities are also being revitalized. The General Hospital, Ilawe, is undergoing renovation, while the Comprehensive Health Centre at Adin-Ilawe has been rehabilitated. A Basic Health Centre has been constructed in Ilawe, complemented by new pharmacy sections, solar-powered lighting, and procurement of medical equipment for facilities in Ogotun, Ilawe, and Igbara Odo.

The government has carried out desiltation works on Temidire River in Ilawe and Olooparun River in Igbara Odo, as well as the excavation of Aaye Quarters River in Ilawe. Motorised boreholes were drilled in Omi Odo Community and the Basic Health Centre in Ilawe, as well as in Ojurube Community, Ogotun. Additionally, culverts and drainage systems have been constructed in Ifesowapo Community, Ilawe, and on Alonge-Olorioko Road, Ogotun.

In terms of infrastructure, the Oyebanji administration has extended a 33KV power line from Ilawe to Igbara Odo (13km) to boost electricity supply.

Road construction and rehabilitation remain a major focus, with projects including:

●Rehabilitation of Ilawe–Igede Road and Ilawe–Erijiyan Road

●Reconstruction of Ikere–Igbara Odo Road and Ikere–Ilawe Road

●Rehabilitation of Igbara Odo–Ikogosi Road

●Construction of major concrete works on Ado–Ilawe–Igbara Odo–Ibuji Road

●Construction of the Ilawe–Erijiyan link road

To strengthen food security, the state government has cleared 170 hectares of land as farm clusters in different parts of the LGA. The construction of a farm dormitory for youths in agriculture is also ongoing.

On rural development, 4km of farm roads have been rehabilitated in Ilawe–Ilupeju and another 4km in Araromi–Aramoko, facilitating better access for farmers and rural dwellers.

In preserving cultural heritage, the government has commenced the renovation of the Oba’s Palace in Ogotun Ekiti, giving it a facelift that reflects both tradition and modernity.

Governor Oyebanji’s projects in Ekiti South West LGA, coming after similar interventions in Irepodun/Ifelodun, Ilejemeje, and Aiyekire/Gbonyin LGAs, reinforce his administration’s resolve to spread development across all 16 local government areas of Ekiti State.

“There is no local government in Ekiti State where Governor Oyebanji has not executed projects,” a government statement noted, emphasizing his continuity agenda and commitment to inclusive growth.

Ekiti 2026: Oyebanji’s Re-election Bid Faces No Threat, APC National Secretary.

Ekiti 2026: Oyebanji’s Re-election Bid Faces No Threat, APC National Secretary.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Ajibola Basiru, has declared that the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State will be a walkover for the incumbent, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

Speaking in an interview with The Sun Newspaper in Abuja, Basiru said the widespread support enjoyed by Governor Oyebanji from virtually all political stakeholders in the state makes his re-election bid almost unchallengeable.

According to him, all former governors, deputy governors, and both serving and former senators from the state except one are solidly behind Oyebanji.

“There is no election in Ekiti because Oyebanji is going to continue. Any reasonable person, including those who have purchased the expression of interest and nomination forms, knows that there is no vacancy in the Ekiti Government House,” Basiru said.

While acknowledging that the party will still conduct its primaries, Basiru stressed that the outcome is not in doubt.

 “Even if 10 aspirants participate in the primary, the truth remains that when you see a governor who is performing for the party, you will know he is a performer. It is the people who will do the voting, and I was in Ekiti to see what is going on,” he noted.

Basiru, however, welcomed the purchase of nomination forms by aspirants, saying it contributes to the financial strength of the APC.

Governor Oyebanji, who was elected in 2022, is seeking a second term in office, riding on his record of grassroots development and widespread acceptance among party stakeholders and the electorate.