EKITI SET FOR INDOOR SPORTS REVOLUTION AS OYEBANJI FLOATS ULTRA MODERN COMPLEX IN ADO EKITI.

EKITI SET FOR INDOOR SPORTS REVOLUTION AS OYEBANJI FLOATS ULTRA MODERN COMPLEX IN ADO EKITI.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

Ekiti State is stepping up the tempo in its sports renaissance with the ongoing construction of a state of the art Indoor Sports Complex in Ado Ekiti, a landmark project that further reinforces Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s BAO deliberate drive to deepen sports development and youth empowerment.

The ultra modern complex is designed as a multi purpose arena that will host a wide range of sporting activities including basketball, volleyball, handball, badminton, table tennis, gymnastics and chess, alongside combat and strength sports such as weightlifting, para weightlifting, boxing, judo, karate, kickboxing and kung fu. When completed, the facility is expected to serve as a breeding ground for grassroots talents, a high performance training centre and a venue fit for elite competitions.

Sports in Ekiti State have witnessed a massive transformation under BAO’s administration, a clear testament to the governor’s vision and game changing approach to development. A standout example is the wide improvement, rehabilitation and re equipping of the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, which now stands tall as the home of Ekiti United FC and Ekiti Queens FC, both flying the state’s flag in the Nigeria Professional Football League and the women’s league. The revamped stadium has restored pride, improved match day experience and provided a solid pitch for talent showcase and competitive football.

Beyond sports, the Oyebanji administration has continued to record wide ranging infrastructural development across critical sectors, reflecting a holistic governance strategy. In the health sector, construction work on the 80 bed multipurpose facility at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital EKSUTH is progressing steadily. The project underscores the Ekiti State Government’s strong commitment to upgrading healthcare infrastructure and expanding access to quality medical services for residents.

Governor Oyebanji has remained consistent in making deliberate investments in people centred infrastructure, ensuring that no sector is left behind. From sports to health and other key areas of development, the administration’s footprint is visible, measurable and impactful, aligning seamlessly with its Shared Prosperity Agenda.

This is a clear call to Ekiti Kete to gear up with massive support and love, to keep believing in purposeful leadership and to continue standing solidly with Governor Oyebanji. As the gains of continuity become more evident, the people of Ekiti State must embrace the shared prosperity vision, sustain the momentum and support, mobilise and vote BAO once again to consolidate these achievements and secure a stronger future for the Land of Honour.

With the whistle blown and development in full flow, Ekiti is winning on all fronts on the pitch, in the hospital wards and across the state’s development scoreboard.

©️Olamide Akinwumi writes from Ado Ekiti.

Celebration and Hope Take Centre Stage as Information and Civic Orientation Department Ushers in a Promising New Year.

Celebration and Hope Take Centre Stage as Information and Civic Orientation Department Ushers in a Promising New Year.

By: Asubiojo G. O.

The Information and Civic Orientation Department of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government on Monday ushered in the new administrative year in an atmosphere of joy, thanksgiving, and renewed hope, as management and staff converged for a colourful celebration marked by spirited praises, vibrant dancing, and heartfelt fellowship.

The occasion radiated unity and cultural elegance, with staff appearing in outstanding modern and traditional attire, beautifully complemented by distinctive headgears and caps. Under the leadership of the Director, Mr. Asubiojo, voices were lifted in praise and thanksgiving to God Almighty, acknowledging His grace, mercy, and divine protection throughout 2025, and for ushering the department into a promising new year in sound health and renewed opportunities.

Speaking at the event, the Head of Local Government Administration (HLA), Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, commended the department for its strong spirit of unity, cooperation, and mutual understanding. She described the gathering as a clear reflection of internal harmony, applauding the collective gratitude to God and the warm fellowship shared during the celebration.

Mrs. Akinbobola further charged staff to enhance their official efficiency and productivity by upgrading their professional qualifications. Drawing from her humble beginnings, she encouraged staff to remain steadfast in faith, emphasizing the power of absolute trust in God. She also assured the department that, given its exceptional performance—being one of the best in the Local Government—the provision of a more conducive, expansive, and aesthetically pleasing office space would be accorded top priority.

Delivering a pragmatic address on behalf of the Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, the Surveyor-General, Mrs. Adelola, expressed deep satisfaction with the unity and love displayed among members of the department. She described the atmosphere as impressive and motivating, urging staff to remain committed and responsive to their duties, just as they had demonstrated in previous years. She further assured that the request for a larger office space to accommodate the hardworking staff of the department would be presented to the proactive and kind-hearted Chairman for objective consideration.

In a collective response, staff members demonstrated remarkable camaraderie through cheerful interactions, humour, and positive engagement. The opportunity was also used to respectfully appeal for a more spacious and comfortable office environment to further enhance productivity in the new year.

Mr. Adedipe Olakitan, a benevolent staff member, rendered gratitude to the Holy Trinity for the success of the gathering, expressing confidence that the department would attain greater heights in the year ahead. He attributed this optimism to the efficiency, effectiveness, and brilliance of the Director.

Also speaking, Barrister Wale Fajuyigbe, a highly professional and articulate moderator, expressed delight at the occasion and appreciated Mr. Asubiojo for his inclusive leadership style and consistent encouragement of staff, both in official duties and personal development. He described the Director as morally supportive, accessible, and people-centred.

Mrs. Omolayo Okeowo expressed profound gratitude for her posting to the department, noting that her administrative focus and social life had gained renewed purpose and direction since joining the team.

In his characteristic manner, Mr. Augustine Tope offered prayers for increased love, divine grace, sound health, and excellent vision for all members of the department, expressing hope for even greater performance than the previous year.

Reflecting on his professional journey, Mr. Afolabi Sunday spoke of his long-standing relationship with the Director, stating that he had no regrets working in the department, having witnessed tangible achievements rooted in love, teamwork, and dedication over the years.

The NULGE Chairman, Comrade Aina Olawole, praised the establishment of the department and its notable achievements since inception. He commended the Director and the HLA for their unwavering support and commitment, describing the department—despite being one of the newest—as outstanding and officially impressive. He offered prayers for the Director’s elevation and for continued growth and upliftment of the department.

Similarly, Prince Adekunle expressed excitement and delight at the occasion, offering prayers for sustained excellence and greater achievements for the department.

The Deputy Director, Mrs. Salawu Esther, described the day as one that would remain eternally memorable in her life. She appreciated her colleagues for their love, dedication, and commitment to duty, while giving special commendation to the Director, whom she described as selfless, humane, altruistic, and exemplary in leadership.

In his closing remarks, the Director of the Department, Mr. Asubiojo, offered profound thanksgiving and adoration to God for His unwavering support over the years. He appreciated staff for their diligence, unity, and collective effort in turning vision into reality, expressing strong confidence that the new year would usher in greater excellence and glory.

The celebration concluded in a relaxed and refreshing atmosphere, featuring assorted fruit-flavoured wines, soft drinks, palm wine, sumptuous meals, snacks, and beverages. Music, singing, dancing, laughter, and warm conversations filled the air, making the event a memorable landmark in the history of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government.

As the echoes of praise gradually gave way to quiet reflections, the gathering stood as more than a celebration—it became a declaration of unity, faith, and renewed purpose. Anchored by gratitude for the past and strengthened by hope for the future, the Information and Civic Orientation Department steps confidently into the new year, poised to deepen its impact, elevate service delivery, and write yet another inspiring chapter in the progressive journey of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government.

Court Halts Installation of Yusuf Musa Opeyemi as Aro of Igbemo Ekiti.

Court Halts Installation of Yusuf Musa Opeyemi as Aro of Igbemo Ekiti.

...Ijomu Development Council Urges Ekiti Govt to Caution Onigbemo-in-Council.

The Ekiti State High Court sitting in Ado Ekiti has ordered the suspension of the proposed installation of Yusuf Musa Opeyemi Kalamu, a civil servant, as the High Chief Aro of Igbemo Ekiti, following a chieftaincy dispute over alleged violations of custom and tradition.

The order followed an application for an interlocutory injunction filed by members of the Aro Chieftaincy Ruling House, seeking to restrain traditional authorities and other parties from proceeding with the installation pending the determination of the substantive suit.

The claimants, Engr. Adeniyi Ige Kehinde and Mr. Adeniyi Pius Ojo, instituted the suit for themselves and on behalf of the Agbo Ule Aro Lagbaye Ruling House of Igbemo Ekiti. They maintained that their family is the rightful ruling house entitled to produce the Aro of Igbemo Ekiti in line with long-established customs.

Those listed as defendants include Alhaji Ogunmilade Yusuf, Mr. Yusuf Musa Opeyemi, and the Onigbemo of Igbemo Ekiti, Oba Daramola Adewumi, sued for himself and on behalf of the Onigbemo-in-Council.

The dispute arose from the alleged attempt to install the second defendant, a son of the first defendant, as High Chief Aro by the Onigbemo, a move the claimants said was carried out without due regard to customary procedures and the Ekiti State Ministry of Chieftaincy and Home Affairs Law. They insisted that the Aro chieftaincy title is exclusive to the Aro family and not the Ogunmilade Okunola Bada family.

In granting the interim relief, the court restrained the Onigbemo from taking any step to install the proposed Aro until the substantive issues before it are fully determined. The court also directed all parties to maintain the status quo to preserve peace and prevent actions that could complicate the resolution of the dispute.

Meanwhile, the Ijomu Development Council has called on the Ekiti State Government to caution the Onigbemo-in-Council over actions capable of escalating tension in the community. The council urged the state authorities, particularly the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Home Affairs, to ensure strict compliance with court orders and established customs.

The Secretary-General of the Ijomu Development Council, Amb. Ezekiel Ibikunle Jasper, said the court order had helped to ease tension in Ijomu Quarter. He appealed to residents to remain calm and warned them to stay away from the Onigbemo’s palace and the Ogunmilade compound to maintain peace and order.

Counsel to the claimants, Christopher Omokhodion Omokhafe, expressed confidence that the court would give full consideration to the historical and customary issues raised in the suit, urging the people of Ijomu to remain calm as the court remains the final arbiter.

The court has directed the defendants to enter appearance within the stipulated time, warning that failure to do so could result in proceedings continuing in their absence. The matter is expected to come up for further hearing as the court undertakes a detailed examination of the competing claims, a development observers say could shape the future handling of Aro chieftaincy succession disputes in Igbemo Ekiti.

Ojuawo Concludes Constituency Visit in Ise/Orun.

Ojuawo Concludes Constituency Visit in Ise/Orun.

The Honourable Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, has concluded his constituency visit to Ise/Orun Local Government Area.

During the visit, Hon. Ojuawo met with the Ise/Orun Local Government Executives and Councillors at the Legislative Chamber of the Council. The Chairman of Ise/Orun Local Government, Hon. Bamikole Ayodele, warmly welcomed the Federal Lawmaker and commended his pragmatic and exemplary leadership, describing it as worthy of emulation.

“I have followed your recent constituency visits to Ikere and Ekiti South West through the media, and seeing you repeat the same commitment here in Ise/Orun, your local government despite our regular interface, clearly demonstrates your leadership spirit and dedication. As you know, we stand solidly with BAO without any dissenting voice, and we shall remain steadfast. Ise/Orun is determined to deliver the highest percentage of votes from Ekiti South Federal Constituency I in the June 20 gubernatorial election,” the Chairman assured.

Similarly, the Leader of the Legislative Arm, Hon. Adeniyi Oluwasusi, reaffirmed the council’s commitment to the success of BAO in Ise/Orun. He assured Hon. Ojuawo, fondly known as O’nfo Loke, that all wards in the local government are secure. “Although the primary election has been concluded, we will not rest on our oars until June 20, when we shall deliver Ise/Orun in totality for BAO,” Hon. Oluwasusi stated.

In his brief remarks, Hon. Ojuawo expressed appreciation for the unity displayed by the council, which he noted was evident in the warm reception accorded him. He explained that his visit was to extend festive greetings and to encourage renewed commitment to the task ahead in the new year.

“We must roll up our sleeves and get to work. The task before us is to deliver BAO 100 percent in Ise/Orun, and this is a collective responsibility. Once the governorship is settled, the mantra of continuity will be firmly entrenched in the consciousness of our people. Once again, I wish you a happy New Year, and I urge us all to embrace unity in everything we do, regardless of our individual aspirations,” Hon. Ojuawo charged both arms of the council.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

IKOGOSI RESORTS: RAISING THE BAR BEYOND LOCAL LIMITATION.

IKOGOSI RESORTS: RAISING THE BAR BEYOND LOCAL LIMITATION.

For logistic reasons, my plan to take my family to Dubai or South Africa for a holiday in December, 2025, was not to be. Though my wife and kids looked forward to the journey, they showed understanding when they saw the effort I made and how it turned out to be a road to nowhere.

Then, one of my colleagues in the office suggested Ikogosi Warm & Cold Spring Resorts as a beautiful alternative. He disabused my mind of those ugly nostalgic memories I had about the resort and revealed how a private company came in three years ago and turned the place around. He also told me how world leaders, diplomats, top government functionaries, and business executives have been thronging the resorts in recent times for relaxation, meetings, and vacation. Much as he tried to market it with latest stories and visuals, my mind was fixed at what the resort looked like years ago when it was like a ghost town, with dilapidated buildings, occupied by reptiles and birds. Then, it was common to read in various national newspapers embarrassing headlines such as ‘Ikogosi: nature abandoned wonder’, ‘ A resort crying for help’, ‘ Who looted Ikogosi resorts?’, and so on.

Even when I hadn’t made up my mind, I was left with no option because of the growing interest of my kids. They had gone online to view things about the resorts and turned themselves to in-house marketers of Ikogosi Warm & Col Resorts. Then they ‘recruited’ their mother, and it became one against 4. I surrendered, and we fixed the date. We left Lagos on 26 December, and within a five hours drive from Lagos, we arrived at Ekiti State. A few minutes before entering Ikogosi through Ipole-Iloro, the ambience changed, and we were all gripped by excitement. I tried not to show it despite the blissful enthusiasm displayed by my family members. Then the unexpected happened. On arrival at the gate, I got carried away by the aesthetics, lightening, and welcoming landscaping into the resort, and I shouted ‘wow’. My people burst into laughter. “Daddy has been defeated” my nine year old girl, Iremide said.

With this, I began a journey into an adventure that opened my eyes and minds to the best of natural elements and modern facilities. Of course, whenever I find myself in a situation like this, I instantly go back to my first love -journalism. Hence, I started thinking and acting like a reporter. For three days, I pushed more questions than any other thing. Interestingly, I concluded before I finished the findings. I didn’t need anybody to tell me that the new Ikogosi Resorts is being handled by a private enterprise because everything there represents excellence. The structures, the workers, and the facilities are all in the class of their own. One more puzzle; I assumed a foreign firm would be in charge. Alas! I was wrong again, Ikogosi Warm & Cold Resorts is currently being managed by Glocient Hospitality (a subsidiary of Lagos based Cavista Holdings). According to the management of the resorts, it was taken over by Glocient Hospitality in 2022 from the Ekiti State government through a concession arrangement. Between 2022 and now, the new hospitality company has invested billions of naira to turn around the fortune of the place.

Today, Ikogosi stands transformed – a world-class destination, and according to the management, it has already twice been celebrated as Nigeria’s Best Holiday Resort (2023 & 2024). At this point, I will single out the Ekiti State government for applause. Kudos must be given to the state for being magnanimous enough to let go of the resorts and let a private entity handle it. With what I saw, Ekiti has thus demonstrated in practical terms that, indeed, the government has no business in business, except the provision of an amiable environment for business to thrive.

Today, beyond the cold and warm water that flows in rivulets, with each, at the point of intersection, still maintaining its thermal properties – warm and cold – the resort offers more in terms of facilities. Though the springs are the major selling points for the resort, facilities like the inviting mountain for hiking, the swimming pool, the spa, and the tree bar are the ice on the cake. In the area of accommodation, the resort is said to currently have 60 guest rooms, several chalets, a presidential villa, modern conference facilities, 24-hour power supply, and robust security. Interestingly, more than 70% of its workforce are drawn from the host community and other Ekiti towns.

For one to experience the coldness or warmth of the spring, it has to be touched, but there is a lot to see and feel in today’s Ikogosi without dipping your legs or hands in the spring. However, the spring sure remains the misery of the resort because it’s globally acclaimed as another wonder of the world.

No one has been able to explain this phenomenon, but some of the locals told me a story of what they believe was the cause of the hot and cold water cascading down and never mixing. According to the story, the two wives of the Oba were always at loggerheads, and while one was calm, the other was fiery tempered. It was so bad between them that even after their death, the calm wife became the cold spring, and the temperamental wife became the hot spring. Since no superior argument, either scientific or philosophical, has dismissed this, many people stick to the version of the story given by the locals.

For me, it’s the facilities and world-class standard of service that impressed me more. The reason is simple, the natural gift alone can not market the resort or attract the quality of fresh people currently visiting the resort. For instance, the rooms and foods are comparable to what is obtainable in a 5-star rated hotel anywhere in the world. The spa is not only sophisticated, it parades experienced hands. There is also a poolside bar that displaces top drinks brands, coupled with a mixologist who serves fantastic mimosas, cocktails, and egg, among other delicacies. Like in other global organisations, with global best practice, Ikogosi parades well-cultured staff members who are managing the customer service and front desks.

However, using Ikogosi as a case study, I can say with all confidence that Nigeria business is better off in the hands of private business owners. In fact, individuals and organisations do not need to look outside the shores of this country for the best place to hold their activities. With more patronage and converts like me, one can be sure again that nature has blessed Nigeria with so much for the country to earn appreciative revenue from tourism. As someone who enjoys traveling and visiting interesting places, my Ikogosi trip is one that I would love to repeat because it has left a lasting impression on me and I am so proud that it is in Nigeria.

While I appreciate the management of Glocient for ticking all the right boxes, one must commend the company’s chairman, John Olajide, for being patriotic enough to dam the consequence and put his hard-earned money in Ikogosi Apart from Glocient Hospitalities, Olajide’s Cavista also has ‘Agbeyewa Farms,’ said to be the largest cassava farm in Africa (also in Ekiti State), with over 10,000 hectares of land. There is also PayZeep, the Fintech company based in Abuja; and Cavista Technologies, a tech company that provides back-end software solutions and support to companies in the US, with offices in Nigeria, Botswana, India and the Philippines.

Finally, a mild and avoidable drama took place at the resort, which I think stakeholders should have nipped in the bud before now. There’s still a misconception out there that Ikogosi Warm and Cold Spring Resort is a public enterprise and so must be opened to all. This was the mindset of some people, mostly youths, who converged on the entrance of the resort with the entitlement mentality that the resort was a public utility that must be opened for them with little or no gate fee. In the fracas that followed the disagreement, the aggrieved members of the public almost pulled down the gate. I must commend the security personnel on duty for their professionalism and ability to apply emotional intelligence to calm the situation.

On this, I blame the state government, the management of the resorts and other stakeholders for not putting a good communication channel in place all this while, to inform and educate Ekiti people that their cherished natural heritage has been given to a private entity for effective management to boost the state revenue base as well as turning Ekiti to a major tourism destination.

With what I saw in Ikogosi, I can confirm and assure Ekiti people that the state government has done the best to lift the resort. Please, let us all live with this reality. We must all bear in mind that the resort’s current standard must have been both capital-intensive and operationally demanding. No wonder, today, the resort stands as one of Nigeria’s leading tourist destinations, attracting high-profile local and international guests. The testimonies from discerning visitors during the last Yuletide period strongly affirm that the resort is on the right path. Notably, the visit of the immediate past President of Botswana, His Excellency Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi is a powerful endorsement of the resort’s rising global profile.

For me and members of my family, it was an experience worth whatever we must have expended. It was so exciting that my kids had started mounting pressure on me before we left the resort when next we would return to Ikogosi. Jokes apart, we will come again.

Seriki, a media consultant, writes from Lagos.

Oyebanji launches 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance emblem, urges reflections on fallen heroes.

Oyebanji launches 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance emblem, urges reflections on fallen heroes.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has launched the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Emblem appeal fund, urging Nigerians to reflect on the significance of the occasion by honouring the bravery and supreme sacrifices paid by the fallen heroes.

Governor Oyebanji who launched the emblem at the Lady Jibowu Hall, Governor’s office on Thursday to mark the commencement of activities for the annual Armed Forces Remembrance Day, reiterated the commitment of his administration to supporting the welfare of the retired and serving personnel within the ambit of available resources through collaboration with the Nigerian Legion and other relevant bodies to ensure Improved support systems, empowerment opportunities, and programmes that restore dignity and hope to the veterans.

The Governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, called on Nigerians to recognize the need to embrace peace and tranquillity, exhibit love towards one another and encourage progressiveness rather than violence stressing that everyone has a duty to secure the society by joining efforts with the gallant soldiers and other security personnel for a peaceful society.

“As a government, it is our duty to prioritize security in order to make the society a safe environment. I must let you know that efforts had been made to improve the security operations in Ekiti State and more importantly in collaboration with other South Western States to create a more coordinated, tech-savvy and community supported security architecture (Amotekun Corps) in the overall interest of our people. Our plan is to secure the entire region and sustain same with modern technology to alert the States as well as support the security personnel in their onerous assignments. 

“Let me use this medium to commend our President, His Excellency, Asiwaju  Bola Ahmed Tinubu who work tirelessly amidst all challenges to ensure a safe and stable Nigeria.

The Governor, who launched the emblem with a sum of five million Naira used the opportunity to enlighten citizens that the emblem launch was meant to raise funds for the veterans to alleviate some of the pains and challenges being confronted in their daily lives as he also encouraged residents to donate handsomely and contribute generously to support the veterans, their widows and serving troops.

“I also call on every citizen- public servants, corporate bodies, traditional rulers, religious institutions, schools, unions, and community groups-to actively support this emblem appeal. Let us give generously. Let us participate wholeheartedly. Let us show our servicemen and women that their sacrifices are not forgotten and will never be forgotten.

“As we launch this emblem, let it be a visible pledge of remembrance. Let it be a symbol of unity that transcends tribe, religion, and geography. Let it remind us that freedom is not free, that peace is not accidental, and that the stability we enjoy today was purchased by the bravery of our armed forces, we all owe a debt that can never be fully repaid to our fallen heroes But we can honour them, support their families, stand with the veterans who once stood for us and we can build a nation worthy of their sacrifices”, The Governor stated.

Earlier, the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi described the occasion as avenue designed to remember, celebrate and honour the patriotic service of military personnel who dedicated their lives to defend the sovereignty of the country and the world at large through the civil wars, peace keeping missions across the globe, and other statutory duties.

Dr Olomojobi thanked Governor Oyebanji Governor for his giant strides across all sectors of the State especially in providing an enabling environment of peace, security, and good governance that allows everyone to peacefully and fittingly celebrate and honours our fallen war heroes adding that his administration's commitment to the welfare of serving and retired military personnel, as well as other security agencies, is worthy of special note and commendation.

The Head of Service further commended everyone at the event and urged them not forget the historical trajectory of Nigeria as it propels the people to continue to resist all forms of insurgencies and the need to maintain and sustain peaceful co-existence in their environment. She added “We all must sacrifice, remain committed to the growth of our state and ensure we promote unity and brotherly love rather than embracing any act capable of truncating the peace our state and Nation.

The Chairman, Nigerian Legion in Ekiti state, Mr Atoki abdurazak thanked God for giving their members a Governor like Mr Biodun Oyebanji who has been a pillar of support for the Legion in Ekiti praying to God to continue to protect and uplift him politically, spiritually with the promise that members of the legion are solidly behind the Governor.

The ceremony was also attended by the representative of the Speaker and the Chief judge as well as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Brig. Gen. Ebenezer Ogundana (Rtd.), members of the state executive council, Service Chiefs, Chairman, Ekiti state Council of traditional rulers, Oba Adu Alagbado, labour leaders and members of the legion among others.

Ojuawo Pays Courtesy Visit to Ekiti South West Leaders, Rallies Support for BAO’s Re-Election.

Ojuawo Pays Courtesy Visit to Ekiti South West Leaders, Rallies Support for BAO’s Re-Election.

Still in the festive spirit, the Honourable Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, Hon. (AVM Rtd.) Ojuawo Rufus Adeniyi, paid a courtesy visit to leaders in Ekiti South West Local Government Area as a mark of respect for the new year and to mobilise support for the re-election of Governor Biodun Oyebanji (BAO) in the forthcoming gubernatorial election.

Hon. Ojuawo was accompanied by Engr. Gbenga Omole (Ologbo), Comrade Femi Babalola, Engr. Bayo Olotin, Hon. Deji Ajayi, and other aides.

The visit commenced at the Legislative Chamber of Ekiti South West Local Government, where the delegation was warmly received by the Council Chairman, Hon. Richard Apolola (aka Sikira), alongside councillors of the local government.

In his welcome address, Hon. Apolola expressed gratitude to Hon. Ojuawo for the visit, describing it as a commendable gesture of respect to both the executive and legislative arms of the council.

“As Chairman and gatekeeper of Ekiti South West, we are united in purpose and sincerity of heart to welcome you. We appreciate your consistent support for grassroots development. Here in Ekiti South West, we are BAO, sealed,” he affirmed.

Speaking on behalf of the legislative house, the Spokesperson, Hon. Samuel Ogundola, appreciated Hon. Ojuawo for his continuous support, recalling the legislative training organised before their inauguration.

“It has been good news since then. On behalf of the House, I say thank you, sir, and we humbly request more of such opportunities,” he said.

Engr. Gbenga Omole also commended the Chairman and councillors for the unity and harmony within the local government, urging them to translate this cohesion into electoral strength for Governor Oyebanji in the coming election.

In his remarks, Hon. Ojuawo thanked his hosts and charged them to intensify mobilisation efforts ahead of the gubernatorial election.

“The agenda before us is BAO. The new year comes with responsibility, and that responsibility is to deliver incredible results for BAO. We must work together—no big man here. BAO is our symbol, and we must institutionalise continuity in Ekiti, just as it is done in Lagos. My mission is to felicitate with you and also to alert you that it is time to start working. Your requests are noted and are achievable,” he assured.

The federal lawmaker also visited Ogotun Ekiti, where he met with party members and paid a New Year homage to His Royal Majesty, Oba Adebayo Adesanmi, Atewogboye II, the Ologotun of Ogotun Ekiti. He informed the monarch that the sod-turning for the newly approved polling Station, as requested by the community, would soon take place. He further encouraged party members to remain focused, assuring them that party welfare remains a continuous priority.

At Igbara Odo, Hon. Ojuawo met with party leaders, reiterating that Governor Oyebanji has laid a strong foundation that allows citizens to thrive in a peaceful and inclusive environment.

“We must emulate the unifying spirit of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who has reinforced unity across the state. This spirit must be entrenched in all areas under our control. I also want to assure you that the channelisation of the Oruwo River will soon commence, as promised by FERMA,” he stated.

Responding on behalf of the leaders, Mr. Oluwole Ariyo (aka Gato), an APC chieftain, and Mrs. Bukola Olowolaju, Chairman of Igbara Odo/Ogotun LCDA, appreciated Hon. Ojuawo for his festive support, welfare interventions, and forthright leadership.

“You are an honest man who says what he means and means what he says. In Igbara Odo, we are solidly behind BAO,” Mr. Ariyo declared.

Mrs. Olowolaju also assured Hon. Ojuawo of the total and continuous support of Igbara Odo leaders for the APC, pledging to keep strengthening the party to greater heights.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM