Ojuawo Supports Local Government Candidates with Financial Assistance.

Ojuawo Supports Local Government Candidates with Financial Assistance.

In a strategic move aimed at easing the nomination process for local government candidates within his constituency, Hon Rufus Adeniyi Ojuawo, Member representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency I, has provided financial support to the Chairmanship, Vice Chairmanship, and thirty-two (32) Councillorship candidates across the constituency.

Hon. Ojuawo, an Air Vice Marshal (Rtd) explained that the gesture was intended to assist the candidates in completing their nomination processes at Ekiti State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC), ahead of the forthcoming local government elections.

He described the intervention as part of his continuous commitment to strengthening grassroots governance and ensuring a smooth, inclusive, and participatory democratic process at the local government level. According to him, empowering candidates at this critical stage will enable them to focus more on issue-based campaigns and effective engagement with their constituents.

Speaking on behalf of all the beneficiaries, Hon. Olu Adamolekun, the Chairmanship candidate for Ikere Local Government, expressed profound gratitude to Hon. Ojuawo—fondly known as O’nfo Lókè—for his timely support. He described the gesture as a demonstration of genuine leadership and selfless service to the people. He offered prayers for continued success, strength, and greater achievements for Hon. Ojuawo in all his endeavours.

OJUAWO MEDIA TEAM

Ekiti Moves to Align Cocoa Production with Global Standards Under TRACE Programme.

Ekiti Moves to Align Cocoa Production with Global Standards Under TRACE Programme.

The Ekiti State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has said it will enforce stricter standards in cocoa production as part of efforts to align the state with global best practices under the TRACE project.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade, announced this at a two-day stakeholders’ workshop organised in collaboration with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

The event brought together cocoa farmers, processors, regulators, and industry stakeholders to discuss sustainable production and traceability requirements.

Mr Boluwade described cocoa as central to Ekiti’s rural economy and said the government was determined to reposition the sector to meet international market standards, particularly in environmental protection, responsible land use, and product traceability.

He said the TRACE initiative would educate stakeholders on modern production techniques and compliance with global supply chain standards while discouraging encroachment on protected forest reserves.

“Strict adherence to due process will enhance the credibility of Ekiti cocoa in the international market, improve farmers’ incomes and strengthen investor confidence,” he said.

The commissioner noted that the initiative forms part of Ekiti State’s broader strategy to modernise its cocoa industry and strengthen cash crop production in line with global best practices.

According to him, the Oyebanji Administration is making conscious efforts to revive and expand the cocoa sector — historically one of the state’s key agricultural strengths — through several state-led programmes, including the distribution of subsidised and improved cocoa seedlings to farmers.

He said a major initiative provides up to 50 per cent subsidy on cocoa and other tree crop seedlings to encourage planting, replace old or burnt trees, and attract new farmers, particularly youths, into cocoa farming. 

The government also supports farmers with agrochemicals and pest/disease control inputs to boost yields. Noting that other measures taken the administration include modernisation, training, and capacity building for farmers on climate-smart and modern agronomic practices aimed at improving productivity, sustainability, and resilience.

Mr Boluwade added that Ekiti had been selected as a model state for the European Union’s Deforestation-Free Cocoa Initiative (EUDR), which ensures cocoa produced for export complies with sustainability standards, including being grown without deforestation. The state’s forestry regulations and land management plans are being aligned to meet these requirements.

Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr Babatope Ojo, said compliance challenges were largely linked to limited awareness among farmers. He said the ministry would intensify extension services and capacity-building programmes to bridge knowledge gaps.

Mr Ojo also highlighted collaboration with the Ekiti State Forestry Commission to prevent illegal farming in protected areas and ensure cocoa expansion does not undermine environmental sustainability.

The ministry’s Director of Tree Crops, Tope Alao, said the workshop provided practical guidance on traceability systems, including farm mapping, record keeping, and compliance procedures. He noted that clear documentation of cocoa origin and supply chains is increasingly required to access premium international markets.

Mr Wale Awoyemi, representing the USDA under the TRACE project, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting productivity, quality improvement, and traceability mechanisms in the state.

Participants described the workshop as timely and pledged to adopt the new standards, comply with traceability requirements, and support efforts to protect forest reserves while increasing cocoa output.

The Workshop marks a significant step towards the Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji's agenda on cash crop production in conformity with the global best practices. 

“Your Promotion Centres on Affirmation of Hard Work, Accountability and Total Commitment” —Mrs Akinbobola.

“Your Promotion Centres on Affirmation of Hard Work, Accountability and Total Commitment” —Mrs Akinbobola.

By Asubiojo G. O.

In the quiet dignity of service and the sacred corridors of responsibility, the Administrative Head of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah Bosede, delivered a charge that resonated beyond celebration — a message that stirred conscience and awakened purpose.

Addressing both newly promoted junior staff and senior cadres across all departments, she described promotion not as a ceremonial gesture, but as a divine affirmation of diligence, discipline, and unwavering dedication.

Promotion, she noted, is responsibility elevated,cum integrity acknowledged.

It is commitment brought into the light.

She urged staff to embrace renewed dedication and steadfastness in their official duties, reminding them that every action taken in service becomes a legacy written in time.

“You are building a future fortress for yourselves and your families while in service,” she declared. “Your records today will serve as a reference point for the coming generation.”

Her words carried both warmth and firmness — a reminder that no officer should engage in any conduct capable of tarnishing the noble image of the Local Government Service or jeopardizing their destiny.

Mrs. Akinbobola further aligned the moment with the broader progressive vision of His Excellency, Governor Abiodun Oyebanji (BAO), whose administration continues to prioritize timely approval of promotions for deserving staff across Local Governments and State Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. A leadership she described as humane, pragmatic, and people-centered.

She also expressed profound appreciation to the Chairman of the Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission, Chief Samuel Abejide, for his visionary stewardship and unwavering commitment to strengthening the Local Government system. She commended the Commission’s prompt implementation of promotion approvals for both junior and senior cadres, alongside the consistent payment of outstanding deductions, salaries, and leave bonuses — actions that reinforce dignity within the service.

According to her, such responsive governance must be met with heightened productivity, loyalty, and excellence from beneficiaries.

Adding his administrative perspective, the Director of Administration, Prince Peters Adegoke, encouraged staff to remain punctual, disciplined, relevant, and forthright in the discharge of their responsibilities. He emphasized that trust between management and staff is not accidental — it is built on integrity, diligence, and consistent performance.

The Prince Adegoke concluded with a solemn reminder: "Promotion is not an arrival; it is an ascent. It is not a resting place, but a higher altar of service."

Indeed, in Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, promotion is more than advancement — it is  affirmation.

2027 Election: Oyebanji, Fayose Woo Ekiti Voters for President Tinubu.

2027 Election: Oyebanji,  Fayose Woo Ekiti Voters for President Tinubu.

.....as APC receives PDP defectors.

 

As the All Progressives Congress (APC) perfects its political strategies ahead of the June 20 Ekiti State governorship poll and the 2027 general elections, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has urged Ekiti people mobilise maximum support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office.

The re-election of President Tinubu for a second term, according to Governor Oyebanji, would further boost the fortunes of  Ekiti State and Nigeria as a whole, adding that the President would, in his second term, have ample opportunity to consolidate the gains of the various economic reforms he has introduced, which  have accelerated growth and development in the country.

Governor Oyebanji who stated this at a rally in Ikere-Ekiti, on Monday where a former House of Representatives Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Mr Henrich Akomolafe, was received into the APC fold together with hundreds of his supporters, said he was confident that he will emerge victorious on account of his impressive performance and level of  acceptability by the people.

He, however urged the people of the state to double the volume of votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the January 20, 2027 presidential poll, stressing that the era of delivering about 300,000 votes in presidential election is no longer acceptable.

“For us to show our love and support for President Tinubu, we should target about 600,000 votes for him. This will only be possible if we all go out and get our voters cards and mobilise from house-to-house canvassing support for the President. Anything less than 600,000 votes is not good enough for us in Ekiti. So, we have a lot of work to do.

"Our votes shouldn't be less than 600,000 in the coming governorship election to give us a hope about what will happen in the presidential poll, because President Tinubu has tried for us in Ekiti.

"All that we are seeing in terms of projects today were made possible because of the support I get from President Tinubu. We can't afford to give him 300,000 votes or less, we must up our game and deliver nothing less than 600,000 votes.

"To achieve this, our people should go and get their PVCs to be able to deliver massively for the party", Oyebanji added.

At the event, attended by political heavyweights across party divides, former Governor of the state, Dr Peter Ayodele Fayose, who is a leading light in the PDP, said he had no regret supporting Governor Oyebanji in his effort to develop Ekiti State, adding that while he would not join APC, he would mobilise support to ensure Oyebanji got a second term in office.

Similarly, Fayose, who said nothing could stop President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in January 2027 polls, said he would continue to mobilise support for the President’s electoral victory.

"With or without defections, President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji have won their elections. They have done creditably well and Ekiti people are not ingrates. We will repay them with electoral victories.

"I have called my colleague former Ekiti governors before I came here. I am here representing their interests. Governor Oyebanji has made it easier for President Tinubu to have higher votes in Ekiti in the 2027 elections. Governor Oyebanji is really an Omoluabi governor and a unifier and we are ready to support, not minding what anyone will say.

"The governor has no opposition in this coming election. But there are records to break. Nothing stops you from winning back- to -back, and win all the wards with exceeding votes. Looking at it critically, you have locked down everywhere, especially Ado and Ikere-Ekiti. So, nobody should come here and talk about rigging. It is obvious, we have no opposition to Governor Oyebanji here in Ekiti and Mr President has our total support in the 2027 elections". Declared Fayose

The former Governor, who is Akomolafe's political  leader, said he will continue to encourage whoever wishes to defect to APC to back Oyebanji, and the President to do so,  especially those that have value to add.

Speaking further, Governor Oyebanji explained that electioneering campaign was being delayed because of the fasting being undertaken by Muslims and Christians across the globe.

The Governor also urged APC members and candidates of other political parties to tow the path of peace during the electioneering.  "Please, in this election, we don't want bloodshed and violence. They will lie against us, but don't worry, we will reply them with votes". 

Oyebanji assured the Akomolafe and all his supporters of unfettered access to all the rights and privileges inherent in APC, saying the party doesn't pander to primordial sentiment of one being a new comer or a decampee.

Commending Akomolafe for his political strength, Oyebanji, said: "You a practical and influential politician. You are a young man who has done well and I am proud of you. I will surely take care of your interest and I thank former Governor Fayose for allowing you to join us. I am grateful.

"This is the first time since I became the governor that I will receiv someone into the party. If it is winning election, I can predict we have won. But we can't be delivering 300,000 votes this time, we must be looking at over 600,000 votes to send a signal to President Tinubu that we are solidly behind him".

Describing his defection as a child of necessity, the defector, Mr. Henrich Akomolafe, disclosed that he was spurred to join the APC owing to the accelerated development being witnessed under the Oyebanji administration.

Earlier, the Special Adviser on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe, who represented the State Chairman of the party, Barr Sola Elesin, commended Akomolafe for his aggressive mobilisation and grassroots connection.

Elesin added that other resourceful  people in opposition parties are trooping into APC owing to the party's accommodating spirit, urging those who are still left behind to join the train and back the moving vehicle being piloted by Governor  Oyebanji.

Dignitaries at the political gathering were: Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Chairmen of Ikere Local Government, Hon Olu Adamolekun, Ikere LCDA, Hon Rufus Olorunfemi,   Commissioners, Special Advisers, political leaders, members of the State Working Committee, among others.

OGUNGBEMI CHARGES INDIGENES TO INCULCATE CORE VALUES OF THE EKITI BRAND AT EKITI FUTURE AGENDA ROUNDTABLE 2026.

OGUNGBEMI CHARGES INDIGENES TO INCULCATE CORE VALUES OF THE EKITI BRAND AT EKITI FUTURE AGENDA ROUNDTABLE 2026.

The Executive Chairman of Ajoni Local Council Development Area, Amb. Prince Michael Ogungbemi, FCPA, has called on Ekiti indigenes at home and in the diaspora to consciously preserve and promote the enduring values that define the Ekiti identity.

Prince Ogungbemi made this charge while serving as Lead Discussant at the Ekiti Future Agenda Awards and Roundtable 2026, themed “Sustaining Our Values as an Ekiti Man: Reigniting the Spirit of Our Forebears.”

Reawakening the Spirit of Our Forebears:

In his compelling opening address, the Chairman emphasized the urgent need to safeguard the moral, intellectual, and cultural foundations that have historically distinguished Ekiti people across generations.

Drawing from history, he referenced the heroism demonstrated during the Kiriji War (Ekiti-Parapo Liberation War), highlighting the legendary bravery of Fabunmi of Okemesi as a timeless symbol of courage, resilience, and principled leadership.

According to him, the struggle of that era was not merely about territorial defense, but about dignity, self-determination, and collective honor—values that must remain central to Ekiti’s development trajectory today.

Core Pillars of the Ekiti Ethos.

As Lead Discussant, Prince Ogungbemi articulated the foundational pillars that define the Ekiti brand:

●Integrity (Omoluabi)

●Intellectual Excellence

●Hard Work and Industry

●Communal Solidarity

●Courage in the Face of Adversity

He reminded participants that Ekiti’s revered reputation as “Ile Iyi, Ile Eye” was earned through discipline, scholarship, moral uprightness, and an unwavering commitment to truth.

A Call for Strategic Action:

The Chairman stressed that sustaining Ekiti’s noble heritage requires:

●Deliberate and sustained investment in education.

●Ethical and transparent leadership.

●Youth empowerment and mentorship.

●Stronger collaboration among communities and institutions.

●Cultural preservation anchored on honor and accountability.

He warned that contemporary challenges—including moral decline, political intolerance, and cultural erosion—demand a renewed and collective commitment to the principles handed down by Ekiti forebears.

A Charge to Leaders and Citizens:

Prince Ogungbemi urged Ekiti sons and daughters worldwide to see themselves as custodians of a proud and enviable heritage. He charged leaders to model integrity and citizens to prioritize collective advancement over personal ambition.

His intervention set a clear and inspiring tone for the Roundtable deliberations, reinforcing the Ekiti Future Agenda’s commitment to preserving identity while driving progressive development.

Building a Resilient and Prosperous Future:

The Ekiti Future Agenda Awards and Roundtable 2026 reaffirmed that sustaining Ekiti values is not a nostalgic exercise—it is a strategic imperative for building a resilient, united, and prosperous Ekiti State.

As conversations continue beyond the Roundtable, the message remains clear:

"The future of Ekiti lies in the faithful preservation of its values and the bold pursuit of collective progress"

Signed:

Oyebola Oluwaseun 

Media & Publicity Assistants,

Office of the Chairman,

Ajoni LCDA.

ARCHITECT TOPE OGUNLEYE: EPITOME OF CHEERFULNESS IN HUMANITY.

ARCHITECT TOPE OGUNLEYE: EPITOME OF CHEERFULNESS IN HUMANITY.

Architect Tope Ogunleye is a man of many attractive colours. His presence always radiate happiness into the minds of those who are fortunate to be around him. He is ever ready to put smiles on the faces around him with strong believe that such smiles radiates joy into his own soul. That is to say he is ever willing to give in cash and kind to whoever is in dare need. It's evidently proved that GIVING is his ministry. A cheerful giver in the spirit of agape love. Wonderful!!!

From his profile, much has been said about him even as an home breed Politician. His profession, Architecture that promotes and showcases the beauty of people and habitat has encouraged him alot in his service to humanity:

  

Architect Tope Ogunleye represents the biblical Joseph who kept on helping people even when in pain because service to humanity was paramount.

 Therefore a trust in him can never be a regret. His activities remind me of the Chinese Prisoners who were rendering service to fellow prisoners who were in danger instead of using the opportunity to escape. For more clarity about the Chinese Prisoners; hundreds of Prisoners in China's quake-hit southwestern province of Sichuan have had their jail terms reduced for courage shown in relief and rescue work when national disaster struck in 2008.

A Prison Officer was reported to have said that: *"Hong knew that the roof of the building could collapse any moment, but he ignored the danger to his own life to save a person who was crying for help."*

This is exactly what Architect Tope Ogunleye stands for. He is part of the masses and among those who have chance to leave those who are in needs, but always stay around them to be their comfort. Since God is love, each time we walk in love, we cannot fail. This is his believe, so he always put others first even if it's inconvenient for him. He is just like Joseph who helped others to interpret their own dreams which paved way for his own delayed dreams to be baptized with favour, and was made to run with speed!!! No wonder that Washington Carver once said: *"How far you will go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, sympathetic with the striving and tolerant of the weak and the strong; because someday in life you will have been all of these."* This is exactly Architect Tope Ogunleye believes in, and that which makes him so dear to people. With this we believe Architect Tope Ogunleye is the best to represent Ekiti Central Constituency 1 come 2027.

RST ITESIWAJU

TOPE DE IRORUNDE

I’ll abide by Electoral Act, says Gov. Oyebanji.

I’ll abide by Electoral Act, says Gov. Oyebanji.

…Urges other candidates to do same.

As the June 20 Ekiti State governorship election approaches, the incumbent Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has assured Ekiti people that he would abide by the provisions of the Electoral Act, even as he called on candidates  of other political parties to do same by campaigning within the ambit of order and electoral decency.

Governor Oyebanji  who stated this on Friday during the monthly Evening of Praise and Worship  programme, at Jibowu Hall, Government House, stressed the importance of peace during the coming election, urging politicians to shun violence and campaign of calumny that are capable of disrupting the peace of the state.

The Governor, in a short address to the congregation, also coveted prayer for the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration as well as the re- election of the President in 2027 polls. 

Commenting on his recent awards  of Governor of the Year (2025) by some reputable media organizations, Oyebanji said he dedicated all the awards and recognitions to Ekiti people, stressing that he was able to receive the awards because of the mandate given by the people as well as their sundry support for the programmes and policies of his  administration.

“I sat down there when the Chaplain was reeling out the awards, the awards are not for me, they are for you- the good people of Ekiti. So, whatever assignment I'm given as Governor of Ekiti State, it  is on behalf of Ekiti people, because if you have not elected me to be here, nobody will recognize me. 

“So, all those awards, to the glory of God, belong to all of you. Your support and prayers made it happen and I still covet your prayers that in all those assignments, I will do things that will make God proud.

“As INEC announced the campaign timelines, let's continue to live in peace, let's continue to preach peace to everyone, and let us live with one thing in our mind- that a man cannot receive anything unless God wills it. 

“It's good for us to aspire, It's good for us to try, but once you aspire, you try and it doesn’t come to you, just accept it, next time it will come. We don't have to bring down the roof of the house. I'm talking to my politicians friends, that a lot of aspiration will come, there's no problem with aspiring, but it's only God that gives power to whom he wills at His own time. So, our time will come at the fullness of time.

“As we move towards June 20, I can assure you that as the candidate of my  party -APC, I am bound by the electoral act. I'm not going to trouble the State, we will campaign with all decency because we know that power belongs to God. And I also invite all my co-contestants to find their ways within the limits of order and  decency. If you want to rule our people, you should not trouble them, the people will decide and God will guide us aright there's nothing to fear, June 20 will come and go without any problem. 

 “As we pray for Ekiti State, I beseech you brethren to also continue to pray for the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you know we have a President that means well and pulling himself from all sides to serve the people and carry the burden of this country. This is a man who has been gracious to us in Ekiti. So, as you pray for the Governor, please pray for him”. Governor Oyebanji stated.

The February edition of the monthly programme featured ministrations by guest artiste- Minister Dunni Praise and the choir of African Church, Ikere Ekiti. 

Dignitaries in attendance at the event include the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; members of the state House of Assembly, members of the state executive council; members of body of permanent secretaries; Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria ( CAN) Ekiti State chapter, Rev Emmanuel Aribasoye, Chaplain of the Government House Chapel, Pastor Segun Awolumate; top government officials and clerics from different denominations .