The Unshakeable Mandate: Why Ekiti South Stands Firm with "Agbaman".

The Unshakeable Mandate: Why Ekiti South Stands Firm with "Agbaman".

In the landscape of Ekiti politics, loyalty is not just a word, it is a debt of honor. Today, as the drums of the 2027 and 2031 cycles begin to beat, a clear voice rises from the hills of Omuo to the valleys of Ilawe. It is a voice that rejects political opportunism and celebrates a man who has proven that leadership is about presence, not just power.

Senator Yemi Adaramodu is not a "political migrant." He did not wait for the weather to be fair before joining the ship. While others jumped from platform to platform in search of convenience, "Agbaman" remained the steady hand through the evolution of our progressive fold, from Alliance of Democracy (AD) to Action Congress (AC), Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), and now the All Progressive Congress (APC). He didn't just join the party; he helped build the house. To those now "jostling" for a ticket after barely six months in our ranks: If you could not make your former party a home, how can you claim to lead ours? A true home-maker stays to fix the roof when it leaks; they don't run to a neighbor's mansion when the storm gets tough.

Let the records speak. In 2023, the people of Ekiti South made a choice that shook the political establishment. Sen. Yemi Adaramodu didn’t just defeat an incumbent; he dismantled a legacy of underperformance. He won in the "strongholds" of his opponents, Gbonyin/Aiyekire and Ekiti East, proving that the people value a representative who dines with them over a "Berlin-wall" politician. To the "political neophytes" being cajoled with tales of "Presidency endorsement": know that Senator Oluremi Tinubu, a woman of peerless integrity and party loyalty, does not endorse "political Merchant" who like to reap where they didn't sow. She respects the mandate of the grassroots. In Ekiti South, the mandate has already been signed, sealed, and delivered by the people themselves.

Governance is a team sport, and Sen. Yemi Adaramodu is the ultimate team player. It is no secret that when it came time to safeguard the future of Ekiti, it was the South, under Adaramodu’s leadership, that first raised the banner for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO). He didn’t wait for others to lead; he set the pace, ensuring the South became the bedrock of the Governor's endorsement. Those scheming for 2030 should remember: Only God knows who will see tomorrow. To play "demi-god" today is to invite the humility of the heavens. Our focus is 2026 election, and our focus is Gov. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and Senator Yemi Adaramodu in 2027.

Why is Ilawe-Ekiti like a "Mecca and Medina" when Sen. Adaramodu returns from Abuja? It isn't because of the title of "Senate Spokesman." It is because he is accessible; his living room is a public square. He eats, dances, and cracks jokes with the very people who gave him their thumbprints. He is impactful; from monthly stipends to food distribution and strategic employment, he has turned "empowerment" from a campaign slogan into a daily reality. He knows his onions; as the voice of the 10th Senate, he has brought prestige to Ekiti South, proving he is a heavyweight in the hallowed chambers of Abuja.

To the schemers and the "Vuvuzelas" of latecomers: Ekiti South is not for sale. We will not trade a performer for a passenger. We will not trade a builder for a tenant. Sen. Yemi Adaramodu has earned his seat through sweat, loyalty, and unmatched grassroots connection. Any affront on his mandate is an affront on the choice of the people. We stand with the man of the people. We stand with Agbaman!

Abraham Seunfunmi Writes from Omuo Ekiti

VENITE UNIVERSITY MOVES TO STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP WITH OAU IN DRIVING ACADEMIC GROWTH AND INNOVATIONS.

VENITE UNIVERSITY MOVES TO STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP WITH OAU IN DRIVING ACADEMIC GROWTH AND INNOVATIONS.

Management of Venite University Iloro-Ekiti has paid a strategic working visit to Obafemi Awolowo University Ile Ife as part of ongoing efforts to build strong academic partnerships across critical disciplines.

The Vice Chancellor of OAU, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, received the delegation alongside members of his management team and expressed delight at the visit.

Leading the Venite University delegation was the Pro Chancellor and Chairman of Governing Council, Professor Olabisi Aina, who described the visit as both historic and deeply symbolic. She stated that it was with great honour and a deep sense of institutional pride that she led the Venite management team on the strategic working visit to OAU, which she described as the referee mother university to Venite University as designated by the National Universities Commission.

Professor Aina expressed profound gratitude for the role played by the leadership of OAU in the academic and institutional development that has translated to global university partnership.

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https://veniteuniversity.edu.ng/2026/04/23/venite-university-moves-to-strengthen-partnership-with-oau-in-driving-academic-growth-and-innovations/

Ekiti Govt Reaffirms Support for Youths in Agriculture, Promises Improved Farm Access.

Ekiti Govt Reaffirms Support for Youths in Agriculture, Promises Improved Farm Access.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

The Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Ebenezer Boluwade, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting youth participation in agriculture.

Boluwade gave the assurance during the closing session of a three-day training programme organised under the Bring Back Youth into Agriculture (BBYA) initiative in Ado-Ekiti.

The commissioner, who had earlier visited other training centres outside the state capital, said the government would continue to provide the necessary support and create a conducive environment for young farmers ahead of the 2026 farming season.

He also disclosed that the road leading to the Ado-Ekiti BBYA farm would be considered for rehabilitation to improve accessibility and boost agricultural productivity.

Boluwade urged the participants to remain disciplined and conduct themselves responsibly, noting that several opportunities abound for them through partnerships and agricultural programmes facilitated by the state.

He commended YSJ Farms Limited for successfully organising the training, describing the initiative as a significant step towards engaging youths in agriculture and enhancing food security in the state.

VENITE UNIVERSITY SECURES NUC FULL ACCREDITATION FOR HER PROGRAMMES.

VENITE UNIVERSITY SECURES NUC FULL ACCREDITATION FOR HER PROGRAMMES.

Venite University Iloro Ekiti has received NUC applause and Full score accreditation status!!! following the October and November 2025 accreditation exercise.

According to the official communication issued by the Commission, the accredited programmes include Computer Science, Cyber Security, and Software Engineering, all of which were granted Full Accreditation. All other programmes from Venite university are also verified.

This accreditation, affirms that the programmes meet quality academic standards required for university education in Nigeria and beyond as stipulated under the relevant provisions of national education laws.

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https://veniteuniversity.edu.ng/2026/04/23/venite-university-secures-nuc-full-accreditation-for-her-programmes/

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Rising Drug Abuse Threat: Ekiti Intensifies Campaign as Stakeholders Demand Rehab Centres, Stronger Family Role.

Rising Drug Abuse Threat: Ekiti Intensifies Campaign as Stakeholders Demand Rehab Centres, Stronger Family Role.

Worried by the growing impact of substance abuse on families and communities, stakeholders in Ekiti State have called for urgent preventive measures, including the establishment of rehabilitation centres, as the government steps up advocacy to curb the menace.

The call came during the “BAO for Healthy Families Outreach” held at the King’s Palace Town Hall in Efon-Alaaye, where government officials, health experts, traditional rulers and community leaders highlighted the dangers of drug abuse and the need for collective action.

Speaking at the event, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, described substance abuse as a major societal problem that has ruined many lives and families.

He urged parents to be vigilant, especially when their children exhibit unusual behaviour, noting that timely intervention could prevent avoidable consequences. 

In her welcome address, the programme facilitator and Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, said the outreach was aimed at addressing the far-reaching consequences of substance abuse, which she described as a serious public health issue and social challenge.

She explained that the initiative, organised in collaboration with the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Dayo Apata (SAN), aligns with the Oyebanji administration’s focus on human capital development and family wellbeing.

Mrs Babafemi stressed that substance abuse leads to health crises, broken homes, disrupted education, and increased crime, but noted that recovery remains possible with proper intervention and support.

Providing medical insights, a Consultant Gastroenterologist, Prof. Deji Ajayi, warned that drug abuse could result in severe health complications such as addiction, brain damage, cancers of the liver, lungs, and digestive system, as well as mental health disorders and suicide.

He advocated the establishment of rehabilitation centres in Ekiti State, stressing that prevention remains the most effective strategy in tackling the crisis.

Also speaking, a Clinical Psychologist, Dr Dotun Ajiboye, explained that prolonged use of alcohol and psychoactive substances alters brain function, leading to dependency, impaired judgement and emotional instability.

He noted that substance abuse often triggers domestic violence, neglect and economic hardship, thereby perpetuating cycles of vulnerability, and emphasised the need for early intervention and psychological support.

An Addiction Physician, Dr Abayomi Oshatimi, highlighted that effective treatment requires structured approaches involving detoxification, therapy and medication, adding that recovery is gradual and requires patience and sustained support.

He also called for expanded access to rehabilitation services and the reduction of stigma, which discourages many victims from seeking help.

In his remarks, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Dayo Apata (SAN), described substance abuse as “the mother of all abuses,” noting that it destroys individuals mentally, physically, spiritually and financially.

He recalled instances where drug abuse denied applicants employment opportunities, stressing that rescuing the younger generation requires collective efforts and sustained public enlightenment.

Mr Apata also appreciated Governor Oyebanji and his wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, as well as the Alaaye of Efon Kingdom and other stakeholders for their support of the initiative. He commended the Women Affairs Commissioner for championing the programme.

The State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr Sunday Aina, expressed concern about the absence of a rehabilitation centre in the state and called on the government to urgently establish one.

He noted that drug abuse is a global problem linked to crime and social instability, adding that tackling it requires collaboration among parents, communities and relevant agencies.

Speaking on behalf of the Efon Development League, the former Permanent Secretary of the Ekiti State Ministry of Information, Mr Kola Ajumobi, assured that the group would incorporate substance abuse awareness into its youth education programmes.

Also contributing, the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi, and the former Commissioner for Culture, Arts and Tourism, Chief Ronke Okusanya, described the programme as timely, stressing that involvement in hard drugs is incompatible with a successful future and urging parents to monitor their children closely.

The Alaaye of Efon, Oba Emmanuel Adesanya Aladejare, commended the organisers and pledged continued support for enlightenment initiatives aimed at building a progressive and healthy society.

Similarly, the Chief Whip of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Bose Olowokere, lauded the initiative and assured that such programmes would continue to receive support and be sustained.

The event also had in attendance key government officials, including the Commissioner for Works, Hon. Sola Adebayo; Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola; Special Adviser/Director General, Office of Transformation and Service Delivery, Dr. John Moyo Ekundayo; Dr. Olamide Obe, who represented the Commissioner for Health; and the Chairman of Efon Local Government, Hon. Segun Ezekiel Afolabi.

Other participants were market women, students, transport workers, artisans, civil society groups and security agencies. 

Stakeholders unanimously agreed that addressing substance abuse requires a multi-sectoral approach involving government, families and communities, with renewed calls for policies that prioritise prevention, treatment and rehabilitation.

Ekiti Gov Poll: Celestial Church Declares Support for Oyebanji, Deputy.

Ekiti Gov Poll: Celestial Church Declares Support for Oyebanji, Deputy.

...To hold statewide revival ahead of poll.

As a way of demonstrating clear  fraternity with one of their members in government, Celestial Church of Christ in Ekiti State, has declared readiness to back the re-election of Governor Biodun Oyebanji and his Deputy, Chief (Mrs)  Monisade Afuye, in the June 20 governorship election.

The church members expressed joy over the performance rating of Governor Oyebanji and the way he had  operated frictionlessly with Mrs Afuye, who is  a top ranking  member of the church, since the advent of the government on October 16, 2022.

Besides total endorsement of the governor, the church leaders, promised to hold a statewide revival and thanksgiving to offer prayers and supplications for Oyebanji and his  Deputy to emerge victorious in the poll and for Ekiti to witness an election devoid  of crisis and bloodshed on June 20. 

The CCC gave the declaration on Tuesday, during a courtesy  visit by a powerful delegation of church leaders to the office of the Deputy Governor, in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State Capital. 

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, a high profile church member and former Ekiti State Acting Governor, Rt Hon. Tope Ademiluyi, disclosed that the entire celestial church family are proud of the outstanding humility and loyalty being  displayed by the Deputy governor. 

Ademiluyi said the support for Oyebanji/Afuye joint ticket didn't stem solely from the deputy governor's membership of the church, but for the performance the two leaders have demonstrated in their first term, that was widely adjudged superlative by Ekiti residents. 

"We are very proud of the Deputy Governor as a member of the celestial Church of Christ, ditto Governor Biodun Oyebanji. In fact, the two of you are a perfect match for governance. Everybody knows that the two of you are well behaved and humble individuals. 

"We are happy that you have done well and nobody has ever had any cause to settle any rift between you. We have been in politics in this state for a while and we knew the happenings in the past. Your government has done well to the extent that the opposition was giving you credit and saluting you.

"In Ekiti today, nobody is being forced to endorse your second term ambition. It was being given freely. This is a hallmark of leadership. 

"We are assuring you that on June 20, all the Celestial Church members that have reached adulthood will file out to vote for you. Your first term has been so excellent that the people were begging you to come and serve again. You have done well and we are confident that your second term will be better".

Speaking for the youth wing of the church, Leader Yomi Oso, clarified that members haven't committed any grave blunder for the endorsement, saying it was a clear way of supporting one of their own and show solidarity to a government that has performed creditably well.

Oso said the delegation comprises all the existing parishes in the state, which he said underscored how united the members were in their backing for the governor and his deputy. 

In her submission, a member of the church and the Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso Omotoso, added that the endorsement was freely given and not by coercion, saying other similar actions had been taken by some churches who have interest in the governor's performance.  

"The vision behind this  is for Celestial Church members to show solidarity with one of their own. The Deputy Governor, Mrs Monisade Afuye is a mother-in-celestial, who has done admirably well. We can't afford to abandon her. 

"We are not stopping at that, we will continue to help this government with prayers and that is the essence of the statewide prayers and thanksgiving that we are planning for the government".

In his exhortation at the parley, the leader of the delegation, Assistant Most Superior Evangelist Akinola Abraham Aladeseye,  appealed to the two leaders to continue to embrace love in their leadership, warning that no nation can grow when people are locked in perpetual enmity, acrimony and crisis .

Evangelist Aladeseye stated that the proposed statewide revival and prayers would attract members across the 16 local governments and would be a congregation of anointed church members and veritable platform to intercede for Ekiti's liberation and greatness under Governor Oyebanji's leadership. 

Commending the celestial Church for the solidarity, the Deputy Governor, Mrs Afuye, declared readiness to serve selflessly, describing the endorsement as an impetus that would make her work more assiduously and committedly for radical transformation of the state.

Mrs Afuye promised not to betray the confidence reposed in her by the celestial Church nationally, saying she was quite aware of the high expectations from her spiritual leaders, which she vowed never to dash. 

The Deputy Governor stated that her boss has ensured religious equality and tolerance since ascension of office, pledging that the government won't discriminate against anyone on account of  religious inclination. 

"I am indeed joyous to be in your midst today. In fact, I appreciate this recognition for me and my boss. That I am part of you is a glory to the celestial Church in Ekiti and Nigeria. Governor Oyebanji honours and values your support and what you are doing today, you are really making history. 

"The governor is not just doing well because he knows it all, it is your prayers that have sustained us this far. I beg you, go back to your individual churches and continue to pray for the success of this government. We are for you and the entire Ekiti citizens. 

"I am proud to be part of you. Nobody can be listening to preachings in celestial churches and messed up if given any position in government. I am assuring you, I won't disappoint you. On behalf of the governor, we appreciate this support and solidarity", she added.

Mastercard Foundation, IDH Partner Ekiti to Deepen Cassava Value Chain Development.

Mastercard Foundation, IDH Partner Ekiti to Deepen Cassava Value Chain Development.

The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing a secure and enabling environment for agribusiness investors, as the Mastercard Foundation and IDH Netherlands visited the state’s Special Agro-Processing Zone (SAPZ) to assess progress in cassava value chain development.

In Pic: Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade.

The Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, gave the assurance during the visit, describing the organisations as critical partners in the state’s drive to boost agricultural productivity and economic growth.

Boluwade said the government would continue to support investors and ensure adequate security for farming communities to enhance sustainable agribusiness operations.

He added that the state was also prioritising support for programme participants, particularly young women, through the provision of mechanisation services aimed at improving productivity and efficiency.

The assessment tour took the delegation to Itapaji and Iyemero Ekiti in Ikole Local Government Area, where youths participating in the Mastercard Foundation-funded WISE programme turned out in large numbers to receive the visitors.

The delegation included the Country Director of Mastercard Foundation in Nigeria, Ms. Rose Fynn, and the Global Director of IDH Netherlands, Mr. Kebba Coiley. They inspected project sites at Promise Point Farm in Itapaji and FMS Farms Ltd in Iyemero.

Speaking during the visit, Fynn commended the participating youths for their commitment and performance, noting that their level of engagement was encouraging.

In the same vein, Coiley expressed satisfaction with the implementation of the programme and the positive feedback from beneficiaries.

The WISE (Women in Sourcing Enterprise) programme is designed to create employment opportunities for youths, especially women aged between 18 and 35, within the cassava value chain.

No fewer than 7,500 beneficiaries are currently participating in the programme through four partner organisations in the state: FMS Farms Ltd, Promise Point Farm, ABAAS and Value Ingredients Ltd.

Funded by the Mastercard Foundation and implemented by IDH, the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to promote inclusive and sustainable agricultural development in the state.

IDH, an international organisation established in 2008 in the Netherlands, partners with public and private sector stakeholders to develop sustainable agricultural markets, improve smallholder livelihoods and promote fair working conditions.