EKSG Debunks Kayode Ojo’s claim of N80m fire station donation to Ekiti Airport.

EKSG Debunks Kayode Ojo’s claim of N80m fire station donation to Ekiti Airport.

Ekiti State Government has dismissed claims by an All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant, Engr. Kayode Ojo, that he donated a fire service station worth N80 million to the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport project. 

The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor,  Mr Yinka Oyebode, described the claim which was made during a press briefing by Kayode Ojo’s campaign organisation in Ado-Ekiti earlier in the week, as untrue, misleading, and designed for self-glorification. 

Oyebode who spoke at the 2025 Press Week and Annual Public Lecture of the Correspondents' Chapel of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, also urged journalists to always scrutinize claims made by political office seekers and separate the truth from falsehood before going ahead to publish or broadcast as news. 

Oyebode said the state government has a record of total spendings on the airport project, adding that there is no record of any donation of a fire station by Engr Ojo.

“I can say categorically here that the claim by Engr Ojo on that fire station is incorrect, false and misleading. Available records in the Governor’s Office and the Office of the Technical Adviser on Airport Project show that the claim of false. 

“The only individual who made personal contributions to the Airport project is our revered leader and founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola (SAN).  In spite of the fact the elder statesman didn’t want his donations to be made public, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, had at different forum acknowledged Aare Babalola’s contributions. 

“The records of project and spending at the airport are very clear. The project has remained a product of the state government’s vision to grow our agro-economy and open Ekiti to the world.

“The claim by Engr Ojo is baseless and there is no record of such contribution either by the immediate past administration or the incumbent administration. And if indeed Engr Ojo made such a contribution, let him come forward with evidence of the contribution, including the receipt and the name of the person that received the donation on behalf of government. 

“What I do know and confirm from the office of the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Airport Project, AVM Sunday Makinde (rtd) is that the fire station was completed at the airport last year July, fully paid for by the Government. 

The Governor’s aide also challenged Ojo and other aspirants in the governorship race to present tangible records of their contributions to Ekiti’s growth and development prior to their aspiration. He also urged them to toe the path of honour by making claims they can substantiate and make their campaign issue- based. 

“Many of those jostling for the governorship seat today have not contributed meaningfully to the development of their local communities, let alone the state. It is not enough to make unsubstantiated claims during electioneering; the people deserve to see real evidence of service and contribution.

“At this critical period as the state moves closer to the governorship election, we appeal to journalists to always fact-check politicians’ claims before publication.” , Oyebode added at the event which was also attended by former Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters, Senator Babafemi Ojudu; Special Adviser on Information to the Governor, Rt Hon Taiwo Olatunbosun, representative of Oluyin of Iyin, Oba Adeola Ajakaye and other dignitaries.

Oyebanji Mourns passing of Alara of Aramoko, Oba Adegoke Olu-Adeyemi.

Oyebanji Mourns passing of Alara of Aramoko, Oba Adegoke Olu-Adeyemi.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has expressed condolences over the passing of the Alara of Aramoko-Ekiti, Oba Adegoke Olu-Adeyemi. 

The first class traditional ruler passed on August 8, 2025, aged 82 years old. 

The Governor, in a condolence message, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Yinka Oyebode, described the late monarch as a “father figure, a pillar of support, and an excellent administrator” who was deeply committed to the development of his town, his subjects and Ekiti State at large.

The Governor praised the late monarch for his exemplary leadership, passion for development and quality thought process,  through which he inspired the people during his reign as Alara of Aramoko Ekiti.

Governor Oyebanji acknowledged the late Oba’s unwavering support for the Government of Ekiti and the old Ondo State as a public servant, who rose to the position of a Permanent Secretary and served meritoriously in several ministries. 

The Governor also noted Oba Adeyemi's leadership as Chancellor of the Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, among other leadership positions, further distinguished the late traditional ruler as a visonary leader and lover of education. 

“Kabiyesi Alara was a father figure and a role model, who gave his people and humanity his best all and used wisdom to lead his people and attracted development to Aramoko community."

Governor Oyebanji condoled with the people of Aramoko, the Arakale royal family, and the entire traditional institution in Ekiti State, saying, “We will miss him dearly, but his impact on our lives and the development of Ekiti State will never be forgotten.”

“On behalf of the government and people of Ekiti State, I condole with the good people of Aramoko Ekiti, the Alara-in-Council, the immediate and extended family. May God grant our dear departed Kabiyesi eternal rest “, the Governor added.

TCN Power Project: Oyebanji Pays N503m to 1,050 Land Owners.

TCN Power Project: Oyebanji Pays N503m to 1,050 Land Owners.

....Urges beneficiaries to reinvest, rebuild for future.

In a bid to boost power generation in Ekiti State and expand the frontiers of the economy, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, has paid a staggering sum of N503 million to 1,050 land owners, whose lands were acquired for the execution of the 132/133 power project in the state.

Oyebanji assured the citizens that no effort will be spared to connect all the towns to national power grid, for improved economy, trade and commerce, as well as enhanced security, saying whoever that releases his land for such project will be compensated in commensurate terms.

The governor spoke in Ado Ekiti, on Wednesday, during the payment of compensation to owners of land covered by Transmission  Company  of Nigeria (TCN) Right of Way for the 132/133KVA power transmission line in Ekiti State.

Addressing the claimants, the governor, described the project as a critical national infrastructure that must be undertaken to boost power supply for overall development of the state, calling on the citizens to partner the contractor handling the project. 

Oyebanji said the project was owned by the federal government, but facilitated by his administration, through consistent interfacing with all relevant agencies, as part of his strategic interventions to ensure that all parts of the state are connected to the national power grid.

"The TCN project, is a critical national infrastructure that will significantly improve electricity transmission, not only in Ekiti, but across the region. The economic , industrial and social benefits that will accrue from this project cannot be overstated.

"By ensuring stable and expanded power supply, we are laying a solid foundation for sustainable industrial growth, job creation and improved livelihoods of our citizens.

"To the beneficiaries, I want you to make judicious use of this compensation. While we can't replace sentimental value attached to ancestral land and heritage, we trust that these funds will go a long way in cushioning the impact and helping you to rebuild and reinvest for the future".

The governor clarified that, though, the first tranch of the payment covers Ijan and Ikere Ekiti, with an assurance that all other communities shall be duly compensated in due course, urging those yet to be captured not to entertain any fear. 

The Special Adviser on Land Matters, Prof James Olaleye, applauded the land owners for releasing their lands willingly to execute the landmark project, saying with this, they have demonstrated uncommon sense of patriotism, understanding and love.

 Olaleye added that the project was intended to propel necessary power infrastructures for rapid industrialisation, economic empowerment and improved standards of living, which will impact and bolster agro processing plants, livestock production and more regular supply of power for artisans to operate effectively.

"More reassuring is the fact that this project is intentionally designed for reliability and more regular supply of power by connecting to two power supply lines , one from Benin and another from Osogbo, while the two intersect at Ikere. We appreciate you for allowing this line to pass over your farms. 

"It is in appreciation of your sacrifice that the governor quickly approved this payment. Please, make good use of this opportunity".

Speaking for the claimants, Chief Bode Ajisefini, promised that they would cooperate with those executing the project to prevent any case of kidnapping , vandalism and disruption that could hinder speedy completion of the project.

Ajisefini appreciated the state government for expeditiously granted the approval for the payment, saying this signposted that Oyebanji's government is deeply concerned about the welfare of the masses.

Hon. Oluwatuyi, others mobilise citizens for CVR in Irepodun/Ifelodun.

Hon. Oluwatuyi, others mobilise citizens for CVR in Irepodun/Ifelodun.

By Asubiojo G.O. 

The Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, alongside the Vice Chairman, Hon. Remi Alade, the Executive Secretary, Hon. Dr. Sule ’Tunji, and the Head of Local Administration, Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, have urged residents of Igede-Ekiti and Awo-Ekiti to turn out in large numbers for the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Speaking at the council headquarters, Oluwatuyi emphasised that voter registration was not just a civic responsibility but also a vital tool for citizens to shape governance at all levels. He noted that only by obtaining a voter’s card could residents effectively contribute to the democratic process and benefit from government programmes.

He said, “Participation in the CVR is a direct way of securing your voice in the governance process. As a people, we must not disenfranchise ourselves. The Permanent Voter Card remains the only ticket to influence leadership and protect our collective interest.”

The Vice Chairman, Hon. Remi Alade, called on the youth and first-time voters to seize the opportunity to register, stressing that active political participation was the foundation of a stronger democracy. According to him, the present administration in Ekiti State had demonstrated commitment to inclusive governance, and citizens should not be left behind in sustaining that vision.

On his part, the Executive Secretary, Hon. Dr. Sule ’Tunji, urged residents to see the exercise as a way of consolidating the developmental strides of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s administration. He maintained that by registering and collecting their PVCs, citizens would be better positioned to safeguard continuity and strengthen good governance in the state.

Addressing the council staff, the HLA, Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, stressed the need for workers to lead by example in the ongoing CVR exercise. She reminded them that as drivers of government policies at the grassroots, their participation would not only enhance the credibility of the electoral system but also encourage the larger community to follow suit. She further appealed to women and other underrepresented groups within the workforce to take advantage of the registration.

The officials unanimously assured that supporting the ongoing exercise aligns with the people’s desire to sustain the continuity of governance under Oyebanji, whom they described as a governor deeply committed to grassroots development.

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.