OYEBANJI: THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE FOR CONTINUITY AND INCLUSIVE GOVERNANCE.

OYEBANJI: THE PEOPLE’S CHOICE FOR CONTINUITY AND INCLUSIVE GOVERNANCE.

By Osunmuyiwa Stephen

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As Ekiti State approaches another decisive political moment, one truth rings clear across towns and villages: Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is the undisputed choice of the people. His leadership has been marked by inclusiveness, transparency, and a rare humility that makes him not just a governor but a true servant of the people.

In less than three years, Governor Oyebanji has touched every facet of the Ekiti story — from roads and power, to water and education, to welfare and grassroots empowerment. These are not mere promises, they are visible testimonies that speak louder than politics.

PROJECTS THAT SPEAK FOR HIS MANDATE

Urban Renewal & Roads: From BOVAS Road in Ado-Ekiti to the Ikole Township Roads and the landmark Ring Road project, Oyebanji has proven that infrastructure is the backbone of development. Over ₦200 billion worth of road projects covering 350 kilometres have been spread across all 16 LGAs, ensuring no community is left behind.

Builders’ Market: The new Ekiti Builders’ Market in Ado-Ekiti boosts commerce, giving artisans, traders and builders a modern space to thrive.

Education First: Over 1,000 classrooms rehabilitated and 30 new ones constructed, alongside the Smart School initiative at Government College, Ado-Ekiti. This confirms Oyebanji’s belief that the future of Ekiti lies in her children.

Power & Water Access: The Ilumoba–Ijesa–Isu to Ikole 33kV line has improved electricity supply, while 121 boreholes rehabilitated and 110 solar-powered water pumps for schools and health centres guarantee safe water across the state.

Institutional Strength: The ultra-modern Ministry of Works complex at Ajilosun stands as a symbol of order and efficiency in governance.

A GOVERNOR FOR ALL GENERATIONS

What makes Governor Oyebanji different is not only the projects but his human touch. He has been consistent in caring for party members, recognising the sacrifices of stakeholders, and extending hands of kindness to the aged men and women across Ekiti communities. To him, governance is not about titles, but about people.

The elderly testify to his support, the youths celebrate his opportunities, and party members describe him as a leader who never jokes with their welfare. Truly, Oyebanji embodies the Omoluabi ethos — the hallmark of integrity, respect, and service.

THE CONTINUITY AGENDA

At a time when politics can often be divisive, Oyebanji has united Ekiti under the banner of inclusiveness. His Shared Prosperity Agenda has proven that development can be transparent, fair, and beneficial to all — regardless of political camp or social class.

The coming election is not just about another four years; it is about safeguarding the progress already recorded, protecting the investments already made, and ensuring continuity of governance that puts the people first.

THE PEOPLE’S MANDATE

From Efon to Ikere, from Ikole to Ise, the voice of Ekiti is one: Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji remains the best choice. He is not only the face of development but also the custodian of Ekiti values.

The delegates, the party faithful, and the good people of Ekiti must, therefore, unite once again to return this man of character, competence, and compassion. For Oyebanji, it is not about self, but service; not about power, but people; not about politics, but posterity.

By Osunmuyiwa Stephen

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OYEBANJI 2026: POSITIONING EKITI FOR GLOBAL RECOGNITION THROUGH CONTINUITY, DEVELOPMENT, AND VISIONARY LEADERSHIP.

EAF NEWS 

Written by:

Osunmuyiwa Stephen 

Powered by: 

Ekiti Advancement Frontier. 

OYEBANJI 2026: POSITIONING EKITI FOR GLOBAL RECOGNITION THROUGH CONTINUITY, DEVELOPMENT, AND VISIONARY LEADERSHIP.

As Ekiti State prepares for the 2026 governorship election, one truth is becoming clearer by the day: Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) is not only the people’s choice ,he is the tested and trusted leader uniquely positioned to project Ekiti into global relevance.

From infrastructure to agriculture, solid minerals to tourism, Oyebanji has laid a sustainable foundation that no rival in the coming primaries or general election can match. His re-election is not just a political necessity, it is a developmental obligation.

Infrastructure: Building Ekiti’s Backbone

Governor Oyebanji’s administration has embarked on ambitious road networks, including the Ekiti Ring Road project, massive road rehabilitations across communities, and strategic federal road partnerships. The ongoing airport project stands as a bold testament to his vision — unlocking business travel, tourism, and international trade for Ekiti. Power projects, ICT expansion, and improved water supply schemes are further evidence of his people-driven governance.

While opposition figures only talk about development, Oyebanji is delivering it in real time. Continuity is key, and Ekiti cannot afford to gamble with its future on untested promises.

Solid Minerals: Turning Resources into Wealth

Ekiti’s wealth beneath the soil has long been neglected. Under Oyebanji, new frameworks are being drawn to formalize artisanal mining, attract private investors, and establish mineral processing hubs. Granite, feldspar, kaolin, and tantalite deposits will no longer leave Ekiti in raw form — industries in ceramics, glass, and construction materials are already part of his roadmap.

No opposition aspirant has presented a workable blueprint for industrializing Ekiti’s resources. Governor Oyebanji is the only candidate with the credibility, contacts, and continuity advantage to make this vision a reality.

Agriculture: From Farm to Global Market

Agriculture has always been Ekiti’s strength, and Oyebanji is modernizing it for the 21st century. Cocoa, cashew, plantain, yam, and cassava are being repositioned for processing and export. Cold-chain systems, agro-industrial hubs, and farmer cooperatives under his policies are reducing post-harvest losses and multiplying farmer incomes.

The Governor’s passion for food security and export-driven agriculture is unmatched , a guarantee that Ekiti will soon rank among global producers of premium agro-products.

Tourism & Global Branding

Ekiti is home to the world famous Ikogosi Warm Springs, captivating waterfalls, and cultural heritage sites. Oyebanji’s administration is upgrading these attractions into tourism clusters, wellness resorts, and eco-parks. With the coming airport and modern hospitality infrastructure, Ekiti is being packaged as West Africa’s wellness and culture destination.

Rather than political noise-making, Oyebanji is building global brands like “Ekiti Cocoa” and “Ikogosi Mineral Water” that will put the state on the world map.

Human Capital & Good Governance

Ekiti is renowned for education and human capital. Governor Oyebanji has invested heavily in schools, teachers, digital training, and youth empowerment. His administration is nurturing talents for mining technology, agro-processing, ICT, and hospitality  ensuring that Ekiti’s future leaders are globally competitive.

Unlike his opponents, Oyebanji’s governance is inclusive, transparent, and people centered. Resignations or distractions from political job-seekers cannot erase the overwhelming evidence of his performance and the people’s love for his leadership.

Why Continuity is Key

The 2026 governorship election is not about empty promises. It is about sustaining the momentum of growth and positioning Ekiti for global relevance. BAO has proven beyond doubt that he is the bridge between the people’s dreams and their reality.

Opposition aspirants  whether within or outside the APC  cannot match his record, his international outlook, or his ability to unite Ekiti across divides. Their ambitions, though legitimate, pale against the weight of Oyebanji’s achievements.

Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s re-election is the guarantee that Ekiti State will rise from being a “Fountain of Knowledge” to a global hub of industry, tourism, agriculture, and innovation. He is not just the best man for the job,  he is the only one with the tested competence, continuity, and vision to lead Ekiti into a globally recognized future.

Ekiti 2026: Continuity for Prosperity. BAO is the Answer!. 

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APC 2026 Primaries: Kicking Around Mission Impossible.

APC 2026 Primaries: Kicking Around Mission Impossible.

By OSV

Politics, in layman’s terms, is the set of activities associated with making decisions in groups or in other forms of power relations among individuals, such as the distribution of status or resources.

Democracy, on the other hand, is a system of government in which power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or through freely elected representatives.

From these definitions, what is central to both politics and democracy is political power, the authority to administer the people and their resources. Political power simply means that an individual or group of individuals hold the authority in a national or sub-national government. Put differently, it is the process by which the sovereignty of the people is handed over to an elected individual or group to govern on their behalf.

Now, with the race for who clinches the sole ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) gathering momentum, the possibility of Governor Abiodun Oyebanji (BAO) emerging unopposed is high, given the overwhelming support he enjoys from relevant stakeholders within and outside Ekiti State.

Expectedly, however, there are desperate attempts to kick around fabricated narratives to discredit this popular choice ranging from outright lies, concocted innuendos, and baseless calls for his disqualification, to clamors for the cancellation of the yet-to-hold primaries. Some even go as far as referencing the Sarumi/Agbalajobi debacle or attempting to invoke the Ambode scenario in Ekiti.

But let’s be clear: in the absence of any valid reason or strategy to challenge Governor Oyebanji’s bid for re-election, resorting to such political blackmail is not only balderdash but also a mission impossible dead on arrival.

Unlike Ambode’s case in Lagos, Governor Oyebanji has, in less than three years, successfully carried on an all-inclusive style of governance that has endeared him to virtually all strata of society the elites, the middle class, and the average citizens. His government has ensured continuity, stability, and steady development, making it difficult for any rational opposition to dislodge his widespread acceptance.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, a shrewd democrat who understands the maxim that “there can be no leader without followers,” is well aware that virtually all political and apolitical leadership in Ekiti is firmly behind Governor Oyebanji’s re-election project in 2026 an alignment that also complements the President’s 2027 presidential ambition.

This is why all relevant stakeholders in Ekiti past governors, deputy governors, former National Assembly members, serving senators and House of Representatives members, all 25 members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, APC state, local government and ward executives, and well-meaning Ekiti sons and daughters both at home and abroad are united in their call for continuity. They recognize that sustaining the current momentum of good governance under Oyebanji is the surest path to further stimulate the state’s economic growth and political stability.

Anyone thinking otherwise is simply indulging in wishful thinking. The reality is clear: attempting to stop BAO in 2026 is nothing but mission impossible and such individuals should rightly be seen as enemies of progress in Ekiti State.

Slow and steady, they say, “wins the race, not the person who wants to climb the whole stairs in one stride.”

OSV

Ekiti 2026: Mobilise Electorates For Voter Registration - First Lady Charges EKSU Alumni.

Ekiti 2026: Mobilise Electorates For Voter Registration - First Lady Charges EKSU Alumni.

The wife of Ekiti State Governor, Olayemi Oyebanji.

The wife of Ekiti State Governor, Olayemi Oyebanji has charged the Alumni Association of Ekiti State University, under the aegis of EKSU Alumni Female BAO Support Group, to mobilise the electorates to get their voters card ahead of the 2026 Ekiti governorship election. 

The First Lady made the call on Tuesday in Ado-Ekiti during the stakeholders meeting and road show organized by the group to mobilise support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji's re-election. 

In her remarks, Oyebanji, who stressed the need to focus on mass mobilisation of Ekiti electorates including young women, young adults, highlighted the importance of voter registration ahead of the poll.

Her words: "We have to translate our words to actions by registering our children who are already 18 years, mobilise our neighbours so that when the time comes, we can all go out and cast our votes for one of our own."

She appreciated the entire EKSU Alumni body for their support behind the re-election of Governor Oyebanji, reassuring them that he would continue to make them proud as a Alumnus of the institution. 

"I appreciate your thoughtfulness and commitment behind this initiative and I commend the organizers for rallying women behind this noble course. This gathering is not about surpassing my dear husband, it is about reinforcing our shared responsibility to build the Ekiti of our dream. 

"His vision for Ekiti is rooted in inclusiveness, service and sustainable development. For this to be realised, women must remain active participants and lend their voices to strengthen governance. 

"I am delighted that this group is not only standing behind our dear governor, but it is also committed to rally support for his second term in office. Let the good work continue and ensuring that the gains are sustained from generation to generation. 

"Women have always been at the forefront of change whether in our families, communities or professional spaces. But by uniting under one umbrella as a group, you have demonstrated the power of collective action. Let us continue to amplify impacts, drive initiatives that touch lives and ensure that the renewed hope agenda in Ekiti State."

Director and Coordinator of the group, Bolu Adeoluwa, emphasised that the event themed: "Uniting Women to Impact BAO's Vision for Ekiti," is aimed at uniting women in Ekiti State in support of Governor Oyebanji's vision, fostering collaboration and shared purpose.

She reiterated that the Alumni body would continue mobilise themselves and Ekiti people to support the governor towards his victory at the primary and governorship elections.

She said: "We pledge our unflinching loyalty and dedication to the re-election project of your husband, our Governor, whose first term has been marked by people-oriented policies, infrastructural renewal, and inclusive governance, especially, the women inclusion in his governance is on notable recognition, Omoluabi proper which is demonstrated in his relationship with people. 

"The meeting affords us the platform to interact, brainstorm, and strategise as women leaders, supporters and influencers within our various communities. We believe that when women unite with one voice, no obstacle is insurmountable. Our collective energy, when channeled towards political mobilisation can tilt the scale of victory in any election to our side."

In her goodwill message, the State Deputy Governor, Monisade Afuye, represented by the Head of Service, Folake Olomojobi lauded the body for the move saying that "what you are doing is not just a campaign but an institution that wants to institute good education in the society." 

Ekiti State Head of Service, Folake Olomojobi

In the same vein, Director General, Bureau of Community Communications, Mary Omotosho, who is also an Alumnus of the institution, ascribed the feat to the governor's unprecedented achievements in office. 

She equally commended the group saying: "you are making a statement with this strong support and we will make history together. I am happy to be part of this. We will move together, mobilise together and canvass together."

The Director-General of Homeland Intelligence Agency in the State, Dotun Adetuberu, who represented the Director General, EKSU Alumni Solidarity Group for BAO,  Dipo Bamisaye,  said the exercise would, in no small measure, complement the efforts of the apex alumni body in garnering support for the governor. 

Ekiti State Director-General of Homeland Intelligence Agency, Dotun Adetuberu.

He explained that the body took their stand when they purchased both the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for the governor adding that no fewer than 24 different structures have been set-up to extend their support in all units and wards of the state.

EKITI HAS WITNESSED PHENOMENAL PROGRESS IN 29 YEARS, SAYS OYEBANJI.

EKITI HAS WITNESSED PHENOMENAL PROGRESS IN 29 YEARS, SAYS OYEBANJI.

...Congratulates Nigerians, Ekitikete on independence, State creation anniversaries.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed delight that the State has witnessed what he described as a "phenomenal progress" in the last 29 years of its existence as a political entity.

Reflecting on the journey since it was created on 1st October, 1996, Governor noted that God has been kind to Ekiti judging by the notable landmarks recorded in infrastructure, health, education, economy and social development.

The Governor made the remarks on Wednesday during a statewide broadcast aired on all electronic media channels to commemorate the 29th anniversary of Ekiti State and the 65th anniversary of the Nigerian independence.

Oyebanji also used the opportunity of the broadcast to appeal to the political parties, political leaders and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully as the state is already in the campaign mood ahead of the parties' primary elections later this year and the main governorship election in June next year.

He congratulate the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the anniversary of the Independence Day expressing the profound gratitude of Ekiti people for his support for the state and also rallied their support for the Renewed Hope Agenda "which has seen the economy on a positive trajectory never seen in almost two decades."

Reminiscing on the journey so far, Oyebanji stressed that the memory of the landmark speaks to the dream of Ekiti State founding fathers, the resilience of forebears, the sweat of its traditional rulers and the steely determination of the generations before which eventually became a reality.

The Governor used the opportunity of the broadcast to pay tributes to Ekiti patriots and distinguished citizens who were part of the vanguard for the creation of the state adding that while the state might not have gotten to its destination yet, considerable progress has been made on all fronts of development.

He said: "I pay homage to every man and woman who was part of the Movement for the Creation of our State. I thank all the leaders before me who have had the privilege to lead Ekiti at one time or the other. Many thanks to our dogged civil and public servants for staying the course; just as I commend the resilience of our people for keeping the dream.

"With our collective effort, Ekiti has witnessed a phenomenal progress in the last 29 years of her creation.  We may not roll out the drum for elaborate celebrations, but we have every cause to thank God in the life of our dear State. My message to you today as we celebrate the 29th anniversary of our State, is that we thankfully reflect on the journey so far. 

"As someone who had the rare privilege of being part of the Creation Movement, I have a very big reason to acknowledge that God has been kind to us in Ekiti. When we look back in time, it is undeniably clear that we have made some major landmarks in infrastructure, health, education, economy and social development. We may not have gotten to our destination, but we have recorded considerable mileage."

Appealing for peaceful electoral process ahead of the 2026 governorship poll in the state, the Governor added: "Ekiti kete, another governorship electoral cycle is here already and interested persons and parties are already in campaign mood. This is how it should be in a democracy. 

"I like to reiterate my earlier appeal to all political stakeholders in our State to remain peaceful as we enter into the electoral season. The political environment must remain peaceful, our contest must be for ideas and not for violence."

As his administration marks three years in office in few days time, the Governor expressed delight on the various achievements recorded across the six-pillar development agenda which he said has touched every community in Ekiti adding that he is proud of the fact that 

"Ekiti has sustainably and continuously been on a positive trajectory since we have been in the saddle."

The Governor disclosed that he would appear before the State House of Assembly to give ye full account of his stewardship on 16th October as required by law calling on Ekiti citizens at home and abroad for their continued support as the journey to shared prosperity continues.

He equally expressed his appreciation to the members of National Assembly under the leadership of Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, State House of Assembly members under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, the Judiciary under the leadership of the Chief Judge Hon. Justice Adekanye Lekan Ogunmoye for their support to his administration.

The Governor also thanked all our political, traditional and religious leaders, market men and women, artisans, professionals, farmers, labour and students unions, and all other stakeholders in the polity, for their support and unalloyed commitment to the success of his administration.

Agbeyewa Farms Strengthens Security Ties with Nigerian Army and NSCDC in Ekiti.

Agbeyewa Farms Strengthens Security Ties with Nigerian Army and NSCDC in Ekiti.

Agbeyewa Farms has deepened its collaboration with security agencies in Ekiti State as both the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) pledged stronger partnership to safeguard the company’s operations and contribute to national growth.

This was revealed during the visit of the Nigerian Army Company Commander Itapaji, Major G.M. Ado and the Deputy Commandant of NSCDC Ekiti Command, Femi Olowosejeje, who paid separate visits to Agbeyewa Farms in Ekiti State, where discussions centered on enhancing security support for the world’s largest cassava farm.

Welcoming the NSCDC delegation which also had the Deputy Commandant of Corps Rotimi Osuma, Agbeyewa Farms’ MD/CEO, Oska Seyi Aiyeleso, commended the corps for its sustained support through the Agro-Rangers Unit. He expressed appreciation for the professionalism of personnel deployed to the farm and emphasized the critical role security agencies play in Agbeyewa’s expansion drive.

“With Agbeyewa Farms positioned as the largest cassava farm globally, our growth trajectory requires even closer collaboration with security formations across Ekiti State,” Mr. Aiyeleso said. “Our operations are built on four pillars—cultivation, aggregation, processing, and agro-trading. As we advance, we envision an Agbeyewa Farms City, where staff and their families, alongside security personnel who support our work, will reside within the farm community. This will not only improve welfare but foster stronger integration.”

In his remarks, Deputy Commandant Olowosejeje praised Agbeyewa Farms’ Chairman, Mr. Niyi John Olajide, for his contributions to community development and reaffirmed NSCDC’s commitment to strengthening its collaboration with the company under the leadership of Commandant Toma Matthew Enya (PSLC).

Meanwhile, Major G.M. Ado of the Nigerian Army also paid a familiarization visit to Agbeyewa’s Gede Farm located along Itapaji Road, where the Army Company is based. He was received by Mr. Aiyeleso, Cavista Holdings’ Chief Security Officer, Dauda Ismail, Vice President of Operations, Agbeyewa, Antonia Attoh, and other senior management officials.

Both visits highlight Agbeyewa Farms’ ongoing efforts to build strong partnerships with security institutions in ensuring a safe and enabling environment for its agribusiness operations and broader economic contributions.

Ekiti State @29 and the Trajectory of a Journey of a Million Miles.

Ekiti State @29 and the Trajectory of a Journey of a Million Miles.

Ekiti State was created on October 1, 1996, from part of the old Ondo State during the regime of General Sani Abacha. Its creation came in response to the persistent calls by the Ekiti people for a separate administrative entity that would better address their unique socio-cultural and developmental aspirations.

Since then and following the sacrifices of past and living agitators, the state has continued to grow and evolve with a focus on governance, development, and the preservation of its rich cultural heritage. Over the years, Ekiti has recorded significant progress in areas such as economic development, infrastructure, education and technology, healthcare, housing and urban renewal, industrial growth, agriculture, and food security. These achievements have not only improved the lives of the people but have also positioned the state as a key factor in Nigeria’s political and economic space.

Politically, the democratic journey of the state began under the leadership of Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, the first civilian governor, who laid the foundation for progressive governance. Although the trajectory experienced setbacks at some point, when enduring values were traded for short-term populism under the guise of stomach infrastructure, Ekiti soon regained its progressive footing. The administration of Dr. Kayode Fayemi restored core values, introduced landmark initiatives, including a 30-year Development Plan, and bequeathed the state a worthy successor.

Today, under Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji BAO, Ekiti is experiencing steady and tangible growth across critical sectors. This seamless transition has created stability and continuity, which remain catalysts for the state’s steady development. It is this culture of continuity that has united stakeholders across the spectrum former governors, deputy governors, serving and past members of the National Assembly, the 25-member State House of Assembly, APC leaders at the state, local government, and ward levels, as well as well-meaning Ekiti sons and daughters at home and abroad all clamouring for the sustenance of this momentum under a stable political atmosphere.

As the saying goes, slow and steady wins the race, not the one who attempts to climb the whole stairs in a single stride. The development of Ekiti has been deliberate, step by step, not a journey of progress followed by regression. Indeed, the journey of a million miles begins with a single step, and Ekiti’s journey so far has proven that consistency and continuity are the surest paths to greatness.

As Nigeria celebrates another Independence Anniversary, Ekiti State also proudly marks 29 years of resilience, progress, and hope.

Happy Independence Day to Nigeria.

Happy Anniversary to Ekiti, our beloved motherland.

HC Ade

Writing from Ado Ekiti on behalf of OSV