Princess Adetoun Agboola Named Among Nigeria’s 100 Most Admirable Educators.

Princess Adetoun Agboola Named Among Nigeria’s 100 Most Admirable Educators.

The Special Adviser to the Ekiti State Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Funmilayo Agboola, has been honoured as one of Nigeria’s 100 Most Admirable Schools, Teachers and Educators (M.A.S.T.E.R.S) Class of 2025, in recognition of her exceptional contributions to inclusive education and disability advocacy.

The award, powered by Thesis Education Group, celebrates educators, institutions and innovators transforming Nigeria’s education sector through creativity and commitment to positive change.

Princess Agboola, who holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Special Education from the University of Ibadan and a Cambridge International Certificate in Educational Leadership, has spent over two decades championing the cause of children with special needs.

As Special Adviser to the Governor, she has spearheaded and played key roles in several transformative reforms, including the enforcement of disability laws, the creation of Nigeria’s first public inclusive school and the establishment of a state therapy centre for children with profound disabilities.

Under her leadership, the Ekiti State Government also introduced mandatory pre-enrollment assessments, classroom accommodations and other innovative programmes that have strengthened special schools and improved access to quality education for children with disabilities in the state. 

Beyond public service, Princess Agboola is the Founder and Director of Plumcare Educational Services, where she pioneered early identification and intervention systems for learners with special needs and developed professional training programmes for teachers.

Her unwavering commitment to inclusion and her visionary leadership have earned her national and international recognition as one of the foremost advocates for disability awareness and equitable education in Nigeria.

According to the Chief Executive Officer and Team Lead of Thesis Education Group, Mr Bosman Adedokun, The innovation, "100 M.A.S.T.E.R.S" was created to spotlight and connect trailblazers shaping the future of education in Nigeria and across Africa.

He explained that the platform is aimed at recognizing outstanding teachers, rewarding innovation and amplifying inspiring stories of educators who are redefining learning in their communities.

Mr Adedokun commended Princess Agboola and other honorees, describing them as the vanguard of innovation, dedication and transformation in Nigeria’s education landscape.

World Teachers’ Day: Oyebanji Extends Ekiti Teachers’ Retirement Age to 65 years.

World Teachers’ Day: Oyebanji Extends Ekiti Teachers’ Retirement Age to 65 years.

…Presents  N46 Million cheques to Outstanding Teachers.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has approved the immediate extension of the retirement age of teachers in the state from 60 years to 65 years and service year raised from 35 to 40 years.

The Governor also rewarded outstanding teachers in the state with cash gifts totalling N46 million, approved upward review of Science Teachers and Head of Department allowances, as well as immediate payment of 2019 leave bonus areas to further motivate the teachers. 

The Governor made this declaration on Sunday during the 2025 World Teachers’ Day celebration held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavalion, Ado Ekiti. No fewer than 5,000 teachers attended the colourful event which was turned into a carnival as teachers across different cadres adorned in Ankara uniform sang and danced in appreciation of the Governor’s teacher-friendly policies. 

Governor Oyebanji, who thanked the teachers for their invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the state, described them as the foundation upon which the future of the state is built. He affirmed that the gesture was part of his administration’s efforts to motivate teachers, recognize their immense contribution to the development of education, and enhance their welfare in line with the shared prosperity agenda of his administration.

While explaining that the extension of the retirement age was in fulfilment of his promise to reposition the education sector and retain competent and experienced hands in the teaching profession, the Governor said a committee would be set up to oversee the elongation of the service year and ensure that only the agile individuals enjoy the privilege.

Governor Oyebanji further assured the Teachers that his administration would continue to prioritize their welfare and continue to create an enabling environment for effective teaching and learning. 

The Governor also informed the gathering that he will be seeking a re-election for a second term and solicited for their continue support.

“Let me respond to the request by the TUC Chairman, I have been told  now that 2019 leave bonus was paid yesterday and you will start receiving the alert by tomorrow.

“I have heard your yearnings with respect to the mandatory age for retirement and this has been approved as recommended but only for able and willing teachers. On the issue of science and head of departments’ allowances, I know that the Head of Service is doing the review of the allowances and I have instructed her to bring it by next week for approval”. 

“My dear friends, this will be the only opportunity to meet in a group like this before the next governorship election. I therefore want to officially inform you that I will be seeking a re-election into the office of the Governor for a second term. I have been greatly encouraged by the overwhelming goodwill, enthusiasm and support that you have shown me. I want to assure you that, for you, it will always get better. I am resolutely committed to my pact with you and all Ekiti workers. I therefore solicit for your sustained support and prayers going forward. The Governor stated.

Earlier in her opening remarks, the Commissioner for Education, Dr (Mrs) Olabimpe Aderiye expressed her gratitude to the Governor for his efforts at repositioning the education sector and ensure that the teachers’ welfare are taken care of.

The Commissioner highlighted various efforts of the Governor at improving the general well-being of teachers in the state to include, release of over N1.6 billion as running grant to schools in the last three years, payment of over N6.2 billion as UBEC counterpart fund to ensure renovations of schools in the state, payment of over N1.5 billion for WAEC in the last years of the Governors administration as well as prompt payment exam fees for students, placement, BECE and SS2 exams among others.

In their separate goodwill messages, the National President of ASUSS, Comrade Sola Adigun, Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), represented by Mr Lateef Adesiyan, and Ekiti State NUT Chairman, Comrade Adedeji Egbeyemi, all commended Governor Oyebanji for his continue demonstration of love and passion for teachers and the teaching profession in the state.

They commended and appreciated the Governor for his significant achievements in the education sector which include,. Sustenance of free and compulsory education in the state, appointment of retired teachers as political office holders, massive renovation of schools across the state, approval of career progression of graduate teachers, upward review of gratuities paid to retired teachers, employment of 1500 primary school teachers and 2500 secondary school teachers, among others.

Also at the event were, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Secretary to the state Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi, Chief of Staff, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo, members of the State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, among others.

First Lady Tinubu Distributes 370,000 Sanitary Pads Nationwide, 10,000 to Ekiti Girls.

First Lady  Tinubu Distributes  370,000 Sanitary Pads Nationwide, 10,000 to Ekiti Girls.

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched a national menstrual health project under her Renewed Hope Initiative, tagged “Flow with Confidence.” with the distribution of 370,000 sanitary pads to teenage girls across the county. 

The programme is aimed at empowering schoolgirls, promoting menstrual hygiene, and restoring their dignity during their menstrual cycle.

At the Ekiti State flag-off ceremony held at Lady Jibowu Hall, Ado-Ekiti, Senator Tinubu was represented by the state’s First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, who also serves as the State Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Initiative. She disclosed that Ekiti received an allocation of 10,000 sanitary pads to be distributed equitably across the state, particularly in rural communities where many girls struggle to access such products.

Dr. Oyebanji described the programme as a timely intervention to address the challenges faced by adolescent girls, especially the stigma, ridicule, and loss of self-confidence that often accompany menstruation in schools.

“It is wrong for girls to miss school during their periods because they cannot afford sanitary pads or fear stained clothes. Through this initiative, young girls will not only receive sanitary pads but also gain the confidence to embrace their education without disruption. This gesture is about health, dignity, and self-esteem.” She said.

She urged beneficiaries not to sell the pads but to use them properly, emphasizing that the project was designed to safeguard their health and prevent infections linked to unhygienic alternatives such as rags or tissues.

Also speaking at the launch, the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, represented by his Deputy, Chief Monisade Afuye, commended Senator Tinubu’s compassion and dedication to the welfare of women and girls nationwide. He noted that the initiative would reduce school absenteeism among girls and protect their dignity.

 “This is a laudable step towards ensuring menstrual health, reducing the risk of infections, and enabling our girls to stay in school with confidence. We appreciate the First Lady of Nigeria for extending this support to every state, and we are particularly grateful for the 10,000 pads allocated to Ekiti.” He said.

The event also featured a lecture delivered by Dr. Olukemi Akinyemi of the Department of Guidance and Counselling, University of Ibadan, who encouraged the girls to view menstruation not as a source of shame but as a natural process and a sign of strength.

“Menstruation is not something to hide or be embarrassed about. It is part of womanhood. Use your sanitary pads correctly, maintain good hygiene, and talk to your mothers, sisters, or trusted adults whenever you need guidance. Above all, never let menstruation hold you back from achieving your dreams.” She said.

The gathering, which was attended by state officials, members of ALGON, women’s groups such as the Amazons, and schoolgirls, underscored the importance of menstrual health in sustaining girls’ education. Beneficiaries expressed joy and gratitude, noting that the pads would help them attend school regularly and boost their confidence among peers.

APC in Ekiti, and the loud sound of voice of wisdom from the elders towards 2026/27 ~ OSV.

APC in Ekiti, and the loud sound of voice of wisdom from the elders towards 2026/27 ~ OSV.

Elders are source of wisdom, experience, and stability in a world that is constantly changing. Words of elders in politics refer to the valuable insights, advice, and influence that experienced and respected individuals, often with a wealth of knowledge and life experience, bring to the political arena to shape the direction of politics. These elders often play strayegic, and significant role in shaping policy, promoting peace, and advocating for human rights and social justice.

Yoruba will say  “agba kii'wa loja, kori omotuntun wo", tomode basi'ungegi nigbo, agba timonbi tomaa wosi"

Below are a few words of wisdom for us in Ekiti State towards the coming governorship and Presidential elections come 2026 amd 27.

I met with Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State to review progress on agriculture, infrastructure, security, and economic growth initiatives.

“Governor Oyebanji’s clear vision, prudent management, and focus on empowering the good people of Ekiti State to deliver his ‘Vision of Shared Prosperity’ reflects the spirit of our party, the All Progressives Congress and the Renewed Hope Agenda". ~President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, gcfr, The President and Grand Commander of Federal Republic of Nigeria (13th August, 2025).

“For you in Ekiti, you have never had it so good,”

“As Martin Luther King rightly said, we either learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools. I am quite delighted, the crème de la crème of Ekiti have aligned themselves with the governor for the greater good of Ekiti state.”

honestly I am very proud of Governor Oyebanji. He exhumes humility, he exhumes acceptability and accessibility. He has been able to carry all the tendencies in Ekiti State.

“We need Governors like Oyebanji in Nigeria. Governors that will work with everybody regardless of their political differences, Governors that will not chase shadows; Governors that have the capacity to be humble even at the height of their glories" ~ His Excellency Kashim Shettima gcon former Distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, two term governor of Borno State and the current Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (June 9, 2024).

“Ekiti has spoken and I agree in totality with everything Ekiti has said. I stand before you to endorse our President, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his second term in office."

“I also stand before you to endorse our Governor and his Deputy, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and Princess Monisade Afuye for a second term in office. Ladies and gentlemen, these endorsements are not for the fun of it.

“We have here, for the first time, all the former Governors of Ekiti standing here to endorse our Governor. Governor Fayemi sends his apologies for not being able to be here with us, but I have no doubt that he joins us in this endorsement as well. What I say, Governor Oyebanji has been working hard...... Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo,  the first executive governor of Ekiti State and former Honourable M8nister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (28th July, 2025).

Governor Oyebanji is a worthy Ekiti son who upholds the state's culture and traditions, and he always maintains the vision of the founding fathers ..... Baba Aare Afe Babalola, Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR). Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON). Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, University of Lagos (2001-2007). Founder and Chancellor, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), (19th March, 2024)

“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" ..... Senator Ajibola Basiru, the National Secretary of All Progressive Congress (APC), 25th October, 2025

“there is no contest in Ekiti State , whoever is contesting with the Governor is only embarking on giveaways . I congratulate you people in advance . Governor Oyebanji is not only Asiwaju’s son , he is also our favorite at the National Assembly. He has performed well . He is God fearing and  humble . He is one of the Governors who stood by me to become Senate President and so I will stand by him now" ..... Senate President,  His Excellency (Senator Akpabio) 27th October, 2025

“You have tested Governor Oyebanji and find him suitable as a governor. He has done excellently well in the last three years. You know that if given a second term, he will do more. I know you will not let him down, he too will not disappoint you, be rest assured about this” Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, the Deputy Governor of Ekiti State (15th July 2025)

Oyebanji’s performance in critical sector in the state such as infrastructure, education, agriculture, human capital development has distinguished him as a visionary leader that should be supported and encouraged to continue in the best interest of Ekiti people. ....... Senate Leader of the 10th National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Senator  (Dr) Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (21th August, 2025)

“My personal comment is that Gov. Biodun Oyebanji is doing remarkably well. He has fulfilled his responsibilities effectively and I am fully in support of his re-election bid"

 ...... Senator Yemi Adaramodu. 

The Distinguished Senator Representing the good people of Ekiti South Senatorial District and the spokesperson for the Senate and Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs (13th July, 2025).

“Because the Governor has done well, he has over performed and we have all seen him, this is the first time we are having this kind of a thing where all political parties will endorse a sitting Governor. He has delivered on all the six pillars of his administration and Ekiti North has felt his presence, we have felt his impact in all the five local governments in Ekiti North and a good turn deserves another".

“So, I Senator Cyril Fasuyi, representing the good people of Ekiti North move a motion today the 29th of April, 2025 for the endorsement of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji to continue and contest for second term from 2026 to 2030” .....  Senator Cyril Oluwole Fasuyi, The Distinguished Senator Representing Ekiti State North Senatorial District (29th April, 2025).

 “I am a democrat, so I cannot discourage anybody from contesting for the party’s ticket. Anybody who feels he is capable can contest for the party’s ticket.“

“What I am saying is that *as for me and my entire family, we are for Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s second term in office.”

We have all agreed that our governor is an Omoluabi who has performed exceedingly well within the last two years. And we all agreed that if we support him as our candidate, the people of Ekiti will joyfully follow us. So, the best thing to do is to rally support for him so he can continue the good governance till 2030. ...

 Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, the immediate executive governor of Ekiti State and two term governor of the State.  A world-class renowned writer, orator, Diplomat etc and former Honourable Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria  (26th Decemeber, 2025).

“With the structures already put in place by Governor Oyebanji and the determination of practitioners like us, Ekiti is no longer just a state with potential—it is the new face of tourism in Nigeria. We are proud to be part of this unfolding history.”.... Dr. Shayo Olowookere, The executive council of Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN), 

“Let us all acknowledge the exemplary leadership of our Governor. In my eyes, he epitomizes a refined and gracious demeanor,"

“I have never been one to lavish praise on politicians, but Governor Oyebanji is the exception. I hold him in high regard and am honored to publicly commend his leadership". ~ Chief Wole Olanipekun, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), recipient of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), an Ikere Ekiti born Legal luminary, former President of Nigeria Bar Association  of Nigeria and former Attorney General of Ekiti State. (29th November,  2024)

“Governor Oyebanji’s commitment to good governance, saying his inclusive approach to governance had fostered unity and peace in the state, thereby creating an environment conducive to growth and prosperity". ~ Chief (Engr) Olusegun Adebayo Oni, the forner governor of Ekiti State (12th August, 2024)

“Oyebanji has succeeded in according great respect to Ekiti leaders as well as serving as a unifying bridge to all politicians, irrespective of their political inclinations". ~ Chief (Engr) Olusegun Adebayo Oni, the forner governor of Ekiti State (18th February, 2025)

Oyebanji has been endorsed as the sole candidate for the next election slated for 2026.

For clarity, this doesn’t abridge the rights of other APC members to contest for the plum seat. What the endorsement means, is that Oyebanji will get full and solid backing of all APC members in the senatorial district in the coming poll. ~ Prof Modupe Adelabu, former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Chairman, Ekiti Central APC Stakeholders and the mother of every responsible youth in Ekiti State (17th February, 2025)

Governor Oyebanji has endeared himself to Ekiti people with his superlative performance evident in the various people-centred projects in different parts of the state.

His Excellency has been doing extremely well as Governor of Ekiti State and am so proud of what he has accomplished in less than two years, and I’m convinced that Ekiti will attain greater heights under his watch” 

Her Excellency Erelu Bisi Adeleye Fayemi, our multi-talented two term First Lady and The Mother-General of Ekiti State (14th August, 2024)

the shared objective is to ensure the continuity of governance at both state and federal levels, with President Bola Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji being supported for second terms.

the governor of Ekiti should also continue the good works and the humility and extreme commitment he has to Ekiti state ~ Distinguished Senator Biodun Christine Olujimi, former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, former Senatr Minority Leader (29th July, 2025)

A leader has two choices, to embrace peace and development or encourage crisis which will lead to stagnation, destruction and pains. When God gave me a unique opportunity to serve in this state for eleven years before I became the governor , that should count for something.

When I find myself on this seat ,I made up my mind that I will seek peace with everybody*l..... Governor Abiodun Oyebanji, the Executive Governor of Ekiti State (16th October 2024)

History is written by the victors, be one of the victors, go out today, revalidate your APC membership card, register for your PVC, transfer your PVC to Ekiti State to enable you be part of history in making in voting in good governance anchored on political stability and continuity. 

Be part of this history!!!

forward ever, backward never

OSV☝️👌👍

Ekiti State 2026; Breaking the jinx, removing the lid on our development, and looking to the future with optimism ~ OSV.

Ekiti State 2026; Breaking the jinx, removing the lid on our development, and looking to the future with optimism ~ OSV.

Since the advent of democracy in Nigeria and the creation of Ekiti State, our dearest State we love calling little Nazareth is presently witnessing a rendezvous of political atmosphere and taking her rightful position as the most peaceful, secured, and displaying a political maturity and setting the pace for others to follow all over the nation uner the leadership of Governor Abiodun Oyebanji, the Executive Governor of Ekiti State.  This remarkable feat is courtesy, the solid progressive democratic foundation and seamless transfer of stable political structure bequeathed us by our immediate past Governor, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi (PhD).

This progressive democratic welfarist culture was also as a result of a draw down from one of the  legacies bequeathed us by our late sage, Late, Chief Obafemi Awolowo through Pa Adekunle Ajasin, late Chief Bola Ige, late Pa Abraham Adesanya, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, consolidated by Dr. Kayode Fayemi to produce the incumbent 

 Governor Abiodun Oyebanji, the present Senate Leader of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator (Dr) Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, and all our National and State Assembly Members. 

All the Executive Committees members of All Progressives Congress (APC) of Ekiti State, the 16 Local Government and all the 177 Wards deserve a resounding commendation for the sustainance of this culture without wavering in following this political progressive norm and standing solidly behind the re-election of Governor Biodun Oyebanji and HE. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu _GCFR_ come 2026 and 2027 Ekiti State and General and  election Respectively.

This commendation was necessary in view of the massive support this has garnered for the seamless re-election of President Tinubu and His Excellency,  Governor Abiodun Oyebanji on every nooks and crannies of Ekiti State. 

The foremost Ekiti State grassroots sensitisation and mobilizing movement for the sustainance of good governance however, commended the entire All Progressive Congress (APC) leadership across the State,, Local Government and Ward EXCO for displayimg an exceptional and uncommon leadership in micro-managing the affairs of the party towards the popular yearning of the masses.  The group said in a press release in Ado Ekiti, the State capital yesterday that maintaining a winning team is a surest path to continious political relevant at both the national and sub-national levels and an immediate shortest path in breaking the jinx of discontinuity in project and policy completion in the State, which is the major bane of our stunted economic growth and development. 

Finally, the group urge all the State, Local Government and ward EXCO of our great party to continue towing this line of progressive foundation laid by progressive political leaders and complement this with the landmark and landslide victory for His Excellency Governor Biodun Oyebanji and  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,  come 2026 and 2027 General Election.

*_No good coach dare change a winning team without paying heavy punishment for it while slow and steady wins the race, not a man who plans to climb the entire stairs case at once_*

Signed:

_OSV_

Ekiti 2026: Ondo Gov, Aiyedatiwa Urges Ekiti People to Re-elect Oyebanji.

Ekiti 2026: Ondo Gov, Aiyedatiwa Urges Ekiti People to Re-elect Oyebanji.

Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa has called on Ekiti people to re-elect Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term in office, in order to ensure continuity of people-oriented policies and programmes that have transformed the State in the last three years of the Oyebanji administration. 

Governor Aiyedatiwa made the call on Friday during  the funeral ceremony of High Chief Mathew Okunola,  father of Justice Oyebisi Omoleye of the Court of Appeal, held at St Paul’s Anglican Church, Ikole Ekiti.

Describing Governor Oyebanji as a dependable leader whose administration has brought stability, unity and development to Ekiti State, Governor Aiyedatiwa said a second term would avail the Governor the opportunity to deepen the people-oriented programmes that have touched lives across the State. 

Stressing the importance of continued support for Governor Oyebanji, whom he described as a "divine blessing" guiding the state towards progress and development, Governor Ayedatiwa called on Ekiti people within and outside the state to intensify their prayers for the progress and development of the State under Oyebanji till 2030.

"The Governor said I should speak on behalf of the two of us and the only thing I want to say is that, please continue to support Governor Oyebanji because he has performed excellently well and if given another chance he will do more. 

“This our work is a big one and we cannot do it alone that is why I am requesting for the support of all of you. The things we are doing are not what can happen within one month, it will take a while, every one wants it to get to them immediately and it is not possible. Just be patient with us”, Ayedatiwa said.

While commiserating with Justice Omoleye and her family on the death of their patriarch, whom he described as a highly respected community leader, Governor Aiyedatiwa prayed for the repose of the deceased and urged the family to uphold his legacy of integrity and service.

"The deceased did well and that is why we see everybody here today and those of us alive at this time, let us do well while we are alive, whatever position we occupy, let us put in our best just as my brother Governor Oyebanji is putting his best and am also trying my best in my state" the Governor asserted.

Earlier in his remarks, Governor Oyebanji, who described the deceased as a trail blazer and an achiever in several fronts, said the late Chief Okunola would be remembered for his dedication to community development and positive influence on the Ikole traditional Council, the Church and the society at large, where he served with distinction in different capacities.

While commiserating with the family of the deceased and the entire Ikole people, Governor Oyebanji urged them to take solace in that fact that the deceased lived a fulfilled life of impact.

In his homily, the Vicar in charge of St Silas, Anglican Church, Omuo Ekiti, Venerable Ajao Mathew described the late Chief Mathew Okunola as a true lover of God and His work, adding that he lived his life in the service of the Church and humanity.

The Venerable who noted that the deceased was known for his wisdom and godly counsel, stressed that his guidance in times of need and his words of encouragement had touched many lives within the community and beyond.

Also at the event were, the Attorney General of the State, Mr. Dayo Apata (SAN); Chief Judge of Ekiti State, Justice Lekan Ogunmoye; Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi, and members of the Bar and Bench in large numbers.

Move for Re-election of Gov Oyebanji Gathers Momentum in Ekiti.

Move for Re-election of Gov Oyebanji Gathers Momentum in Ekiti.

As someone with a strong link with Ekiti where I had my primary and secondary school education, I have always taken deep interest in the state and her political development. Between 1999 and 2022, the state could be grouped among the states that recorded the highest bad press, majorly because of rivalry and in-fighting within the political class.

But since Oyebanji came on board, he has not only changed the narrative but has united all the warring parties. To his credit, all the former governors and political leaders from different political lineages are today working together to ensure stability and continuity. This is strange in our land and that’s why I believe politicians from Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and even our own Kwara should borrow a leaf from Ekiti.

As I write, I’m aware there is a crisis in Ogun among DapoAbiodun, Gbenga Daniel and IbikunleAmosun. The trio are members of the All Progressive party. In Kwara, BukolaSaraki Group and AbduramanAbdulRasaq group don’t see eye to eye. Aside the existing crisis between the political family of the late governor of Ondo State, RotimiAkeredolu and that of the current governor, Lucky Ayedatiwa, rumour has it that a fresh crisis is brewing between the governor and the Minister of Interior, OyetunjiOjo.

In Kaduna, the state governor, Senator Uba Sani and his erstwhile godfather and former governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai are at war.

In Osun State, the story is the same; things have fallen apart. Of course, the Rivers State case between the suspended state governor, Sir SiminalayiFubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, NyesomeWike is still fresh in our minds. Till date, the Rivers case still remains a marriage of inconvenience.

Under Oyebanji, Ekiti has witnessed the peace that has not been experienced in the state for decades. The governor has demonstrated in clear terms that indeed, leadership is the driving force behind positive transformations in society.

Throughout history, we have seen numerous influential figures emerge who displayed extraordinary qualities of vision, courage and determination to steer their nations towards progress. Some of the greatest leaders of the world all time include Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr., and Winston Churchill – those who led non-violent movements for independence and justice. In the 20th century, icons like Jawaharlal Nehru, Kwame Nkrumah, Jomo Kenyatta and Julius Nyerere were instrumental in guiding many newly independent African nations.

In Ekiti, Oyebanji is leading a movement to cleverly salvage the state and use it as standard for political stability, development and progress. No wonder, everybody has united behind him, regardless of political affiliations. No doubt, the younger generations in Ekiti will continue to look up to Oyebanji as a visionary figure, who sees the future and lays the foundation today.

He is driving revolutionary ideas in agriculture, infrastructural development, technology, digital transformation and education. Like Mahatma Gandhi, Oyebanji has led the non-violent movement for Ekiti development, advocating principles of truth and non-violence. His philosophy has inspired collective responsibility and by the time he finishes his eight year term, he would have left an indelible mark on the struggle for justice and equality.

The Wednesday’s show in Abuja, where he submitted his nomination form for the 2026 governorship election, at the National secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Abuja, was the peak of his acceptability across boards.

For us who are friends of the state, we were excited that the governor was accompanied by an unprecedented huge number of state and national leaders, elected officials and critical stakeholders in the State. In particular, the fact that the Senate Leader, Senator OpeyemiBamidele, the first civilian Governor of the State, OtunbaNiyi Adebayo, and others went with the governor to the office of the National Chairman of the party, Prof. NentaweYilwatda and thereafter submitted the nomination form, was enough to convince everybody that Oyebanji’s approach to governance should be studied and adopted by other state governors.

The array of leaders and stakeholders at the APC Secretariat to be part of the epoch event include: four former Deputy Governors of the state- Chief Paul Alabi; Surveyor AbiodunAluko; Senator AbiodunOlujimi and Prof ModupeAdelabu, as well as all the nine current members of the National Assembly from Ekiti.

Also at the APC Secretariat was the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2022 governorship election, Hon BisiKolawole, who led members of the political family of former Governor AyodeleFayose to solidarise with Governor Oyebanji at the event.

Also present were all members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon AdeoyeAribatise; members of the state executive council, all chairmen of the 16 local government and 22 Local Council Development Area (LCDAs); former members of National Assembly, appointees of the President from Ekiti; leaders of organisedlabour in the State, representatives of students body, youths and women, members of APC Elders Forum as well as members of Alumni Association of Ekiti State university (the Governor’s alma mata).

The first Civilian Governor of the State, OtunbaNiyi Adebayo spoke on behalf of all former Governors of the State at a brief ceremony at the party secretariat, while Senate Leader, Senator Bamidele spoke on behalf of National Assembly members.

Governor Oyebanji, while addressing the gathering, which included the Deputy National Chairman of the party, Chief Emma Eneukwu; National Vice Chairman, Dr. D.I. kekemenke, National Secretary, Senator BashiruAjibola and other NWC and NEC members, urged the national leadership of the APC to align with the wishes of the people of Ekiti State to halt the trend of instability of governance and policies.

For me, the feedback is that political observers were wowed seeing how the party has extended such a warm embrace to Governor Oyebanji as he formally returned his Expression of Interest and Nomination form as the prelude to contesting the forthcoming Gubernatorial election on the platform of the Party. This is unprecedented and I think Governor Oyebanji must have done a lot for his people to earn their trust this much. From the feelers I got daily from Ekiti, the governor’s developmental strides have cut across every facet of the state; the artisans, the civil servants, the students and even the party. In fact, I have read in many reports that his party, the APC, has not been more peaceful in the history of the state than now. It has also been reported that nearly all estranged persons that Oyebanji inherited as liabilities in the party had been reunited with the party almost seamlessly, a testament to the political maturity, sincerity, all inclusive attitude and dexterity of BAO. 

It is not only the Omoluabi ethos that won Ekiti people for Oyebanji but his simplicity and homegrown personality which makes him approachable to an average Ekiti man or woman. According to my findings, as a Governor, BAO still finds time to attend party’s ward meetings alongside party members’ events, which was an experience that party members had not seen before from anybody in that position. Oyebanji was said to be doing this frequently in the spirit of the recognition of the place of the party and her people like the mother that must be cared for in return for the love shown.

At this stage, I agree perfectly with the governor that the inability of any political party to produce a governor for a stretch of two terms in office has become a stain and a jinx that must be broken in order for the State to witness more rapid development and stability that will make it a model in Nigeria. To this end, I will appeal to a few elements within and outside the APC in Ekiti, who still feel they should try their luck to pause and allow Oyebanji to finish his two terms, in the interest of Ekiti State. He has set a standard that must not only be upheld but must be sustained.

-Adio writes from Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.