Power, People and Purpose as Oluwatuyi Commands Waves Of Support At Historic Ekiti Rally.

Power, People and Purpose as Oluwatuyi Commands Waves Of Support At Historic Ekiti Rally.

...A Resounding Endorsement For PBAT, BAO / MCA At Ekiti Parapo Pavilion.

By: Asubiojo G.O

In what has been described as one of the most significant political mobilisations in recent Ekiti history, the Executive Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area, Hon. Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga (popularly known as Chenco), led a massive contingent of enthusiastic supporters to the high-profile endorsement rally for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT), Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) and Chief Monisade Afuye (MCA).

The rally, which took place at the expansive Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti, witnessed a record-breaking crowd, turning the venue into a carnival of solidarity, music, and political affirmation. The presence of Hon. Oluwatuyi and his loyal supporters added colour and momentum to the already vibrant atmosphere, as they danced, chanted, and marched in what many described as a show of unmatched grassroots strength.

Addressing the Information and Civic Orientation Department of the Irepodun/Ifelodun LG, led by Mr. G.O. Asubiojo, Hon. Oluwatuyi said the rally was the “most monumental mobilisation” he had witnessed in his political career.

“This rally is more than a gathering; it is a bold statement of support for the visionary leadership of President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji. The impact of their governance is felt across every ward and household in Ekiti,” Chenco said.

He praised President Tinubu as a “transformational leader” whose national economic and infrastructural strides are already resonating with the people. On Governor Oyebanji, he was emphatic:

“Governor Oyebanji’s administration has brought renewed hope through inclusive, transparent, and people-first governance. His love for Ekiti people is evident in every policy and project,” he added.

Also lending their voices to the resounding endorsement were the Vice Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun LG, Hon. Remi Alade, and the Secretary to the Local Government, Dr. Hon. Sule Fatai, who described the rally as a “clear endorsement of continuity and progressive governance.”

According to Hon. Alade, “This is an organic demonstration of loyalty to leaders who have kept faith with their promises. Today, we see the confidence of the people growing stronger.”

Dr. Fatai, on his part, noted that “the unity witnessed here is rare in our political space. This crowd is not hired; they are here willingly because of what PBAT, BAO, and MCA represent—stability, competence, and inclusiveness.”

In a heartwarming display of civil service solidarity, the Head of Local Government Administration (HLGA), Mrs. Akinbobola Deborah-B, lauded the overwhelming turnout of Irepodun/Ifelodun LG staff, who came out en masse in celebration, cheering and waving banners in what observers called an “epic show of love and loyalty.”

“The energy and excitement shown by our workers today is proof that public servants in Ekiti align with purposeful leadership. They have come to say thank you and to say ‘let the good work continue,’” Mrs. Akinbobola remarked.

The rally, seen as a major milestone ahead of future political realignments, has further cemented the strength of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State. Observers have already described the event as a symbolic declaration of victory ahead of 2026 and beyond.

Ekiti 2026 Guber: Endorsement Bells Ring For BAO.

Ekiti 2026 Guber: Endorsement Bells Ring For BAO.
..As Residents Root For Tinubu's Second Term.
By Wole Olujobi

Bells of endorsement calls rang through the length and breadth of Ekiti State Monday, July 28, 2025,  for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, as residents, in a blaze of pomp and drums, stormed Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, to seek the governor's nod to accede to their calls to offer himself for  further service to Ekiti people in the 2026 governorship election. This, they said, would enable him complete the execution of his development programmes encapsulated in his six-point agenda.

They also threw their weight behind President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to run for second term to enable him consolidate on his economic reform agenda to put Nigeria on a firm footing for the nation's developmental goals.

From Otun to Omuo, Efon to Ijan, Ikere to Ijero, and Ikogosi/Erinjiyan to Iye/Eda Oniyo and far-flung Ipao/Oke-Ako,  the innocence of the early morning serenity of the state capital was shattered by the sweating throngs of citizens trekking long distances, and who in colourful attires, stormed the streets of Ado-Ekiti to stage the biggest rally ever in form of a protest to seek a demand for just one thing: that Governor Oyebanji and Deputy Governor Monisade Christiana Afuye must offer themselves again for their services to Ekiti people, while also demanding a second term for President Tinubu as the elixir to firm up political justice, economic revival and peaceful co-existence in the nation's polity.

For the first time in Ekiti State, the calls were not from the partisan choruses of the ruling party members, but from across the various non-partisan segments of the society, including informal sectors in the artisans and tradesmen groups; civil servants, teachers, transportation unions,  professional groups and students bodies, among others, who joined multi-partisan platforms to converge on the Ekitiparapo Pavilion rally venue to urge Tinubu and the governor to spare more of their time to serve the people.

It was simply 'Ekiti Mandate' in one voice  and in both form and content!

The call on Oyebanji is not without basis, as the governor, besides recording sterling performance, has, for the first time, set a standard in inter-partisan mutual relationship, as members from across party lines have forged a common front as an essential element of productive governance to grow Ekiti State from the past acrimonious relationship founded on adversarial politicking. For them, a focus-based visionary agenda for the common good of Ekiti people is the way to go to serve the larger interest of the people.

The results so far have proven Ekiti people right in their decision to go with BAO for a fresh breath of air to see development in its stark form after years of ambushes propelled by partisan hostilities against the ruling party.

No wonder, owing to the unprecedented peace in the hitherto combustive state, the rally was co-led by some prominent members of opposition political parties, notably members of the main opposition PDP, and their counterparts in SDP, including leaders of other political parties that have presence in the state.

Former Governor Segun Oni  was present at the rally, the same with former Governor Ayodele Fayose, who stormed the rally with thousands of his supporters in t-shirts branded in Oyebanji's photograph.

Fayose had at several fora made it plain that BAO is the way to go. His argument is that though he is a member of PDP,  Oyebanji of APC represents the best hope for accelerated development and peaceful co-existence among various political tendencies in the state, insisting that Ekiti State is better managed in Oyebanji's hands than dwelling on the nuances of partisan rhetoric.

Their senior prefect and first Governor of Ekiti State, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, is always at the head of the table nodding in approval as support swells for Oyebanji among critical stakeholders, including the royalty and the yokel across the state, who urged the Governor to continue to bear the torch to light Ekiti way to the promised land.

The leaders seem to  echo a French novelist and playwright, Honore de Balzac, during his desperate moment for survival when he called out for a certain physician to save him, yelling: "Call me Banchioc, only Banchioc can save me now!"

And so in the etho governed by the community spirit to see more development for Nigerians and Ekiti people on particular, partisanship was interred on the alter of collective desire for more improved conditions of living among Nigerians.

Even though a month of unceasing rains, whether by lunar/phoebus conspiracy or sheer divine favours, the heavens smiled on Ekiti people, who shunned partisanship for collective destiny, as the weather was clement to enable them plough for bountiful harvests from Oyebanji's visionary leadership.

And so today,  Monday July 28, 2025, Ekiti people woke up to a morning that Oya, the goddess of rainstorms in her blanket of gaseous veil and with her cousin Jupiter by her side, had eclipsed the flaming tongues of great Phoebus, the god of the Sun, as Appolo himself stood guard to provide the comfort of July weather across Ado-Ekiti skylines. Even the heavily pregnant clouds refused induced delivery!

As early as eight o'clock, human and vehicular traffic snarls had formed by  huge crowds that pressed hard on the streets and choked life out of the ever-busy adjoining routes to the rally venue, as mammoth crowds of residents in their bright colours stormed the venue amid drumming and dancing to seek Oyebanji's hands in visionary leadership and collaborative governance scheme, to grow the largely agrarian Ekiti State to a technological and commercial hub for the development needs of Ekiti people.

In what looked like a crusade that draws large crowds in search of salvation, thousands of residents struggled to gain access to the venue of the rally, as crowds surged and surged  to be part of history as the clock ticks for the 2026 governorship ballot.

If the arrival of the former governors was dramatic, that of Governor Oyebanji was electrifying, as the deafening shouts of BAO rent the air and ruffled the gentle ambiance of the rally venue, providing an encore to the colour and charm that characterised the entire proceedings.

Former Deputy Governor Abiodun Aluko, who spoke on behalf of the political half of the organisers, said the event was not a political ceremony but a call across the segments of the Ekiti society to unite behind a common vision to urge Nigerians and Ekiti State people to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji to continue to deliver good governance in all ramifications.

He expressed appreciation to party leaders, Labour unions, market unions, youths, professional groups for believing in Tinubu and Oyebanji as demonstrated in their massive presence at the event.

Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who spoke on behalf of Ekiti people at the event where former Deputy Governor, Senator Biodun Olujimi, defected to APC, moved the motion seconded by Hon Femi Bamisile for the endorsement of Tinubu and Oyebanji for second term on account of their innovative governance to redirect the economy for a prosperous Nigeria and Ekiti's growth.

Speaker Aribasoye, on behalf of other Assembly members, spoke in the same vein, stressing the need for the President and Governor Oyebanji to continue their quality services.
Karounwi presented Tinubu and Oyebanji's endorsement letters to Basiru for onward presentation to the President and governor.

While assuring a level-playing ground for party's primaries to elect the governorship candidate, Basiru urged Ekiti people and entire Nigerians to support Tinubu in the 2027 Presidential election and support the governor to deliver quality service in Ekiti State.

The Senate Leader, Bamidele, said the endorsement of the two leaders demonstrated the appreciation the people had for them.
He praised Oyebanjo and Afuye for their quality service to the people.
He urged Ekiti people not to be deceived into joining ADC, saying the party represented a retrogressive vehicle that should be avoided like a plague.
Segun Oni said since Nigerians were rooting for Tinubu, Ekiti people must follow suit to support Oyebanji, stressing that Ekiti people must play frontline roles in Nigeria's project for progress, adding: "Ekiti's success story of our dream is coming with Oyebanji; Nigeria's success story of our dream is on the way with Tinubu."

Fayose who said even though he was not a member of APC "and will never be",  said as the record holder in Ekiti for winning all the 16 local governments in the governorship election, he was motivated by Oyebanji's records and Oni's soft spot for the governor to support him and deputy governor for second term.

Former Governor Adebayo, who delivered former Governor Kayode Fayemi's message, praised Tinubu and Oyebanji for quality service delivery.

He welcomed the new defectors to APC and urged other like-minded people in other political parties to come on board to work for the progress of the state and Nigeria.

Basiru urged Ekiti people to be resolute in their resolve to support Tinubu to enable him continue to deliver on his life-lifting schemes for the Nigerian youths and other critical segments of the nation.

Others who joined Olujimi to defect to APC included Obafemi Adewale (SAN) and former Ekiti State Attorney General; and Minority Leader in Ekiti State House of Assembly, Babatunde Omotayo.

Olujimi, who spoke on behalf of new members, praised the former governors of the state for their forthright leadership, even as she praised Oyebanji for quality delivery of service to Ekiti people. She assured that new members would contribute their quota to strengthen the party to win elections and deliver quality service to the people.

At the event anchored by Yemisi Ayokunle, Ayodeji Afolabi and Ojo Akinlade and where Olujimi formally joined the party, were former Governors Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose, Segun Oni, Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa of Ondo State, former Deputy Governors Biodun Aluko and Prof Dupe Adelabu; Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye.

Others are APC National Secretary of APC, Basiru Ajibola; Acting State Chairman of APC, Mr Sola Elesin; former State Chairman, Chief Jide Awe; Mr Alaba Abejide, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Reps Femi Bamisile, AVM Adeniyi Ojuawo, Sola Fatoba, Biodun Omoleye, Akin Rotimi and Akinlayo Kolawole.

Others included former Deputy Speakers, Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun and Oladapo Karounwi, Hons Peter Owolabi, Olanrewaju Ibrahim, Bamidele Faparusi, Ife Arowosoge, Folorunso Olabode, Chief of Staff, Niyi Adebayo, Kayode Babade, Remi Oguntuase, Bimbo Ogundipe, Chief (Mrs) Ronke Okusanya; Senators Ayo Arise and Tony Adeniyi, former Rep Oyetunde Ojo.

Others present at the rally are leaders of various political parties, chairmen and members of professional groups, leaders and members of market women, representatives of ethnic groups, youth groups and religious leaders.

Rounding off the programme, Oyebanji said he was delighted to part of the success of Ekiti State as planned by the Ekiti State Creation Committee in which he served as member.
He urged residents to register in the forthcoming voters registration exercise to enable them vote.

He who praised Tinubu for awarding the contracts for all federal roads in Ekiti State, revealed that 22 Road hospital projects, scholarship scheme, agricultural schemes, social investments, among others, are ongoing while regular salary and empowerment schemes are in place to address the development needs of the people.

He said he was encouraged by Ekiti people's call to continue to serve, stressing that he will work in humility  to ensure that Ekiti people do not know poverty again.

Delivering the President's message, he assured that Nigeria continue to make progress under Tinubu's leadership.

Oyebanji welcomed Olujimi and other new members, assuring that the party would provide them a level-playing field to make them contribute their quota to make the party stronger.

*#EkitiSpeaks*
*#EkitiKeteForPBATAndBAO*

Senator Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed Binani Celebrates Super Falcons' WAFCON 2025 Victory.

Senator Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed Binani Celebrates Super Falcons' WAFCON 2025 Victory.

 

Senator Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed Binani today extended her heartfelt congratulations to the Nigerian Super Falcons on their triumphant victory at the 2025 Women's African Cup of Nations (WAFCON). This remarkable achievement is a testament to the team's dedication, skill, and unwavering spirit.

"The Super Falcons have made Nigeria incredibly proud," Senator Binani stated. "Their performance throughout the tournament, culminating in this glorious win, is a shining example of the strength and resilience of Nigerian women. 

I am particularly thrilled to see the well-deserved recognition of our captain, Rasheedat Ajibade who earned the Woman of the Match award, and our exceptional goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie who was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament. They embody the excellence we know Nigerian women are capable of." We must also salute the goal scorers Esther Okoronkwo, Folashade Ijamulusi and Jenifer Echegini. They were all brilliant on the field.

Senator Binani, a staunch advocate for gender mainstreaming and the crucial role of women in national development, emphasized the significance of this victory. "This WAFCON win is not just a sporting achievement; it is a powerful symbol. It demonstrates that when women are given the opportunity, they can excel and achieve greatness in any field. This victory should encourage us all to continue creating spaces for women to thrive in all areas of Nigerian life – in politics, business, sports, and every other endeavor. We must continue to support and empower women to reach their full potential."

The Senator concluded by urging all Nigerians to celebrate this victory and to continue supporting the Super Falcons as they strive for even greater heights. "Let us celebrate this moment and look forward to a future where Nigerian women continue to lead and inspire," she said.

Gani Adams Decries Neglect by Governors, Urges Structured OPC Collaboration to Tackle Insecurity in South-West.

Gani Adams Decries Neglect by Governors, Urges Structured OPC Collaboration to Tackle Insecurity in South-West.                                      By Yusuf Bimbo 

The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has lamented the continued neglect of the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) by South-West governors despite the group’s pivotal role in regional security. He called for structured collaboration and increased government support to strengthen grassroots security across the Yoruba nation.

In a bold and passionate address during the National Coordinating Council Meeting of the OPC held in Ekiti State, Iba Gani Adams expressed his displeasure over the failure of the six South-West governors to respond to a formal proposal seeking a partnership between the OPC and the 14-member South-West Security Stakeholders Group (SSSG). He noted that despite repeated appeals, no response has been received, even as the group continues to provide critical security interventions during incidents of kidnapping and banditry.

Adams emphasized that although the OPC is frequently relied upon during attacks, the constitutional responsibility of safeguarding lives and property rests squarely on the shoulders of state governors as the chief security officers. He warned that insecurity in the region may persist unless traditional and grassroots solutions are embraced and adequately supported.

Highlighting the role of traditional institutions, Adams also urged governors to invest in local festivals and culture, noting that over 25 Yoruba cultural festivals annually serve not just as heritage preservation platforms but also as spiritual channels to seek divine intervention for Nigeria’s security crisis.

Speaking earlier, the Ekiti State Coordinator of the OPC, High Chief Idowu Folorunso, appealed to the government to formally recognize and support the OPC in its efforts to complement existing security structures. Folorunso, who also serves as the Akoda Awo of Ado Ekiti and National FinancialSecretary International Ifa/Orisa Spirituality, praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his continued support and described him as a reliable ally in the fight against insecurity.

He also lauded the leadership of Iba Gani Adams, describing him as a visionary whose influence has continued to unify and strengthen the group across the region. Folorunso encouraged OPC members not to be discouraged by misconceptions about the organization, stating that the group remains fully active and committed to safeguarding lives and preserving Yoruba culture.

Also speaking, former Ekiti State OPC Coordinator, Comrade Olusola Ojo, described Gani Adams’ visit as a “memorable and unifying moment” that helped resolve internal leadership challenges within the state chapter. He said the visit will foster greater collaboration among members and deepen the organization’s impact.

Also speaking at the meeting were Chief Okebiorun Omosola, Chief Adedeji Olusola (Abuja Coordinator), and Chief Asikolaye Dauda (National Administrative Officer), among others, who all echoed their support for stronger recognition of OPC’s role in regional peacebuilding and cultural identity.

The Owa of Ijero-Ekiti, Oba Joseph Adebayo Adewole, also lent his voice in praise of the OPC. He applauded the group’s commitment to preserving Yoruba culture and supporting traditional rulers, and described Iba Gani Adams as “a divine gift to the Yoruba race.”

The event underscored the OPC’s unwavering resolve to remain a strong pillar in security, cultural preservation, and youth empowerment, while calling on key stakeholders across the region to embrace indigenous models in confronting the nation’s security challenges.

Also speaking, the Director-General of the Ekiti State Tourism Bureau, Wale Ojo Lanre, applauded the OPC for its efforts in promoting Yoruba identity and community development.

Ojo Lanre dismissed long-standing stereotypes labeling OPC members as “thugs,” noting that professionals such as professors, lawyers, and medical doctors are among the organization’s members.

“If we abandon our traditions, foreigners will commercialize them, and we will end up paying to see what rightfully belongs to us.That is why we are reviving festivals across the South West to preserve our heritage,” he said.

Others pictures of the event are below:

NYC Southwest Chairmen Declare Unflinching Support for Dr. Raymond Edoh and Amb. Tosin Adesuyi for National President and Secretary.

NYC Southwest Chairmen Declare Unflinching Support for Dr. Raymond Edoh and Amb. Tosin Adesuyi for National President and Secretary.

As the National Youth Council (NYC) prepares for its highly anticipated National Congress and election scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, the Conference of Chairmen, Southwest Region, proudly declares our unflinching and total support for Dr. Raymond Edoh as National President and Amb. Tosin Adesuyi as National Secretary of the NYC.

Led by our Chairman, Aare Adedara Temitope Moses, we express our collective confidence in this visionary leadership duo, whose proven track records, deep commitment to youth development, and forward-thinking agendas make them the ideal candidates to steer the Council into a new era.

Dr. Edoh and Amb. Adesuyi have shown exceptional dedication to youth empowerment, inclusivity, and nation-building. Their leadership styles embody integrity, empathy, and the experience required to lead the NYC effectively on the national stage.

Both leaders have consistently demonstrated capacity through practical actions and initiatives that uplift Nigerian youths. Their collaborative and inclusive approach to leadership is a beacon of hope for the youth community nationwide.

We, the NYC Chairmen from the Southwest Region, firmly stand behind Dr. Raymond Edoh and Amb. Tosin Adesuyi. We pledge our unwavering support and will actively work towards their victory at the National Convention.

We are confident that under the leadership of Dr. Edoh and Amb. Adesuyi, the National Youth Council of Nigeria will witness transformational progress, renewed relevance, and impactful engagement with young Nigerians across the country.

This declaration is a testament to our belief in their ability to lead with vision and purpose. We look forward to working with them to build a stronger, united, and forward-moving Council for all Nigerian youths.

Signed:

Comr. Abdulfatai Legacy

Director of Media and Publicity,

Conference of NYC Chairmen, Southwest Region

Aare Adedara Temitope Moses

Chairman,

Conference of NYC Chairmen, Southwest Region

Oyebanji Street Vanguards Celebrate Tinubu, Oyebanji's Statewide Endorsement for Second Term.

Oyebanji Street Vanguards Celebrate Tinubu, Oyebanji's Statewide Endorsement for Second Term.

A pro-democracy group in Ekiti, Oyebanji Street Vanguards (OSV), has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Governor Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji on their statewide endorsement for a second term in office.

The group, in a press statement signed by its Convener, HC Adebayo, on Sunday, extended warm greetings to all sons and daughters of Ekiti State, both at home and in the diaspora, as they welcome the dual endorsement event taking place in the state today.

OSV also commended members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), progressive leaders across the state, and decampees from opposition parties who have recently joined the APC fold. The group assured the new entrants of equal opportunities and the inclusive spirit the ruling party is known for.

According to Adebayo, members of OSV from every street in the state are mobilising in large numbers to the state capital to participate in the celebration. He, however, advised that those unable to attend the event at the central venue should mark the occasion on their streets, while upholding the values of moderation, peace, and unity.

“We urge all our members to reflect the virtues of love, peace, and commitment to the rebuilding of a new Ekiti State — virtues which we have imbibed from our lead compatriot, Governor Abiodun Oyebanji, and other progressive leaders,” the statement read.

The group reaffirmed its unwavering support for the governor’s leadership and expressed confidence in the continued transformation of Ekiti under the APC-led government.

Hundreds of PDP Supporters Defect to APC in Ikere-Ekiti.

Hundreds of PDP Supporters Defect to APC in Ikere-Ekiti.

Hundreds of members of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) from all 11 wards of Ikere Local Government Area have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The defection ceremony, which took place on Sunday at the APC Party Office in Oke-Osun, Ikere-Ekiti, marks a significant political gain for the APC and reflects the growing support for the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, who hails from Ikere.

Led by Mr. Ogundare Banji, Mr. Adedara Kokumo, Mr. Oni Akinniyi, and other notable figures, the defectors cited the visible transformation across the state and the inclusive leadership style of Governor Biodun Oyebanji as their motivation for joining the APC.

They praised the sincerity, humility, and developmental strides of the APC-led administration in Ekiti State.

The new members were warmly received by prominent APC stakeholders, including the Ikere Local Government APC Chairman, Mr. Oyebode Ebenezer Olukayode; Commissioner for Special Duties, Otunba Dolamu Adeniyi; Deputy Chief of Staff in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Hon. Victor Adeniyi; Executive Chairman of Ikere Local Government, Hon. (Sqn. Ldr. Rtd.) Olu Adamolekun Egbejoda; and Executive Chairman of Ikere West LCDA, Hon Rufus Olorunfemi .

Commissioner Dolamu Adeniyi welcomed the defectors, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the party and encouraging them to retrieve their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in preparation for the upcoming elections.

The mass defection is seen as a major boost to the political alignment of President Bola Tinubu, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, and Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye across Ekiti State.

This development is expected to further strengthen the APC’s presence in Ikere and across Ekiti State ahead of the statewide endorsement rally scheduled for Monday, July 28.