Traditional Wedding Coordinators in Ekiti Celebrate Leadership, Bestow State Elder Honour on Mrs. Olaide Adu

In a colourful celebration of remarkable members and leadership, the Association of Professional Traditional Wedding Coordinators of Nigeria (APTWECON), Ekiti State Chapter, has honoured Mrs. Olaide Temitope Adu, Vice Chairman of the Achievers Zone, Ado Ekiti, with the distinguished title of State Elder/Leader.

The recognition, conferred during a ceremony in Ado Ekiti, placed Mrs. Adu alongside nine other distinguished members drawn from the 10 zones of the association across the state.

Explaining the significance of the award, the Ekiti State Governor of APTWECON, Olori Adesina Oluwafunke, said the recipients were carefully selected based on their dedication to the growth and progress of the body. 

She described Mrs. Adu as a passionate trailblazer whose selfless service had strengthened the association.

“Engagers are the life of traditional wedding ceremonies. Without their coordination, the celebration lacks colour and excitement. Mrs. Adu has shown exceptional leadership and wisdom, qualities that make her worthy of guiding the association as State Elder,” Olori Oluwafunke remarked.

Responding to the honour, Mrs. Adu expressed gratitude to God and the state chapter of APTWECON for the recognition, pledging to redouble her efforts to unite members, strengthen their relevance at the national level and foster harmony within the body.

“Our work as traditional wedding coordinators brings joy to families. We must, therefore, uphold love, cooperation, and integrity while avoiding anything that could bring disrepute to the association,” she advised.

Balancing her multiple roles, Mrs. Adu, who also serves as the Principal of the Government Special School for the Deaf, Ikoro Ekiti, assured members that her official duties would not hinder her new responsibility. 

“My role in the association is mostly at weekends, while my school duties are on weekdays. This honour only challenges me to do more. I will not let the association down,” she promised.

A founding member of APTWECON in Ekiti, Mrs. Adu has also distinguished herself as President of the Home Economics Teachers Association in the state. 

In her new role, she is expected to provide guidance, moral and financial support to the association, represent Ekiti at national engagements and defend the state’s interests within the organisation.

Unanimously endorsed by members, she has been widely praised as a competent leader and a role model who embodies both professional excellence and elder statesmanship.

Senator Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed Binani Expresses Deep Concern and Condolences Following Devastating Floods in Yola

 

Senator Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed Binani has expressed profound sorrow and concern following the early morning floods that ravaged parts of Yola town, including Modire, Yolde Pate, and Shagari Housing Estate. The Senator offered her deepest condolences to the families who have been affected by this tragic event particularly those who lost their loved ones. May Allah's Rahma descend upon the departed and may their loved ones be comforted.

"My heart goes out to all those who have been impacted by the devastating floods in Yola," Senator Binani stated. "The loss of lives, homes and the displacement of families is a heartbreaking situation, and I share in the grief of our community during this difficult time."

Senator Binani assured the affected residents that she understands exactly what the affected communities are going through because in all of her political career she has never disconnected from her constituents and the challenges they face. "We are committed to further connecting with all our communities in the state to assess the vulnerabilities within them and continue to advance solutions that will mitigate such occurrences" she said. 

"We will continue to advise relevant government agencies and humanitarian organizations to ensure that the displaced are swiftly catered for and assisted to return to their places of abode as soon as possible. "We should be collectively concerned about the health effects of such floods including the dangers associated with the release of harmful reptiles in such circumstances"

The Senator also urged residents to remain vigilant and heed the warnings of authorities. "As we move forward, it is crucial that we prioritize the safety and well-being of our people," she emphasized. "I urge everyone to take necessary precautions and to cooperate with the authorities as they work to manage the situation and prevent further loss of life or property."

Senator Binani concluded by reiterating her commitment to standing by the affected communities and working towards long-term solutions to mitigate the impact of future flooding events. "We will work tirelessly to ensure that our people are safe and that Yola can recover from this tragedy," she said. "My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected."

Signed:

 *Senator Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed Binani* 

Yola - Nigeria 

27th July, 2025

Ekiti State Government Launches Landmark Reforestation Initiative in Partnership with MBH Global Resources Limited

In a monumental step towards ecological restoration and sustainable development, the Ekiti State Government has officially launched a new Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiative focused on reforesting significant areas within the state. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed recently with the innovative timber and agriculture company, MBH Global Resources Limited. This partnership aims to plant thousands of trees in deforested areas, preserve existing forested regions, create hundreds of job opportunities, and expand the state’s revenue base.

The ambitious project will involve the replanting of up to 1,000 hectares of deforested landscapes with a diverse mix of exotic and indigenous economic trees. This collaborative venture will be jointly managed by MBH Global Resources Limited and the Ekiti State Forestry Commission, starting with an immediate focus on planting 100 hectares within the Ise Forest Reserve located in the Ise-Orun Local Government Area.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, signed on behalf of the government. Additionally, Mr. Adekunle Sunday, the Executive Secretary of the Ekiti State Forestry Commission, also signed the MOU, reinforcing the state's commitment to the initiative. During the signing ceremony, Governor Oyebanji expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “The green economy is a great opportunity for Ekiti to shine. Our natural assets can provide livelihoods while protecting our environment. This investment signifies confidence in our efforts to rejuvenate rural development and discover innovative pathways in the green economy.” 

Echoing the Governor’s sentiments, Prince Adebanjo Adejuwon, CEO of MBH Global Resources, praised the administration’s dedication to sustainable projects: “Governor Oyebanji’s commitment to green investment is inspiring. This partnership reflects a modern approach to governance that prioritizes environmental responsibility and fosters long-term economic growth.”

The agreement, spanning 30 years, ensures a consistent revenue stream for the state, as 30% of the timber's value will be remitted to Ekiti State’s coffers. The reforestation effort will feature both popular commercial species and the indigenous trees that once established the state as a hub for Nigeria’s timber industry, contributing to ecological balance and enhanced economic benefits.

The forestry initiative is expected to generate at least 100 jobs during its establishment phase, transitioning to approximately 40 full-time roles and 10 seasonal positions focused on key activities such as planting, weeding, and maintenance. In addition to job creation, the project will support continual management and protection of the area, curbing illegal activities, preventing erosion and fire risks, and promoting ecological restoration adjacent to the nationally significant Ise Forest Conservation Area.

Hon. Tayo Adeola, Ekiti State Commissioner for Industry, Trade, and Investment, remarked, “This partnership is a testament to our administration's commitment to attracting reputable investors. I am optimistic about the economic and environmental benefits this collaboration will bring to Ekiti.”

Using cutting-edge satellite Land Use Land Cover maps, facilitated by the UK FCDO Propcom+ programme under the Africa Sustainable Commodities Initiative, the Ekiti State Government identified optimal locations for the reforestation project to maximize impact. The approach will adhere to global standards to safeguard culturally significant sites, wetlands, and existing vegetation.

With the **Ekiti State Forestry Law 2016** incentivizing private plantation development through reduced fees, the state is fostering a thriving forestry sector for the future. Hon. Tayo Adeola stated, “Our forests possess immense potential for environmental protection and entrepreneurial prospects. We are enabling responsible growth in our forest sector while promoting private sector participation and safeguarding our natural resources.”

Prince Adebanjo Adejuwon articulated the rationale behind this initiative: “Our decision to invest in Ekiti is grounded in the state’s vast environmental potential, suitable land access, and a rising national recognition of sustainable development. By reintroducing fast-growing species like Gmelina alongside rare indigenous varieties, we aim to contribute to ecological restoration and rural development.”

He further emphasized the importance of forestry as critical for Nigeria’s future: “Forestry has a significant role to play in environmental restoration, economic diversification, job creation, and sustainable development.”

The significance of this partnership transcends economic benefits. It represents a collective commitment to healing the earth, nurturing ecosystems, and investing in Nigeria’s green future.

Ekiti State Empowers Women with Disabilities Through Comprehensive Mental Health Initiative

The Ekiti State Government recently hosted a pivotal Mental Health Programme specifically tailored to empower women with disabilities. Organized by the Office of the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, the event, held at the PWD Centre in Ilokun, Ado-Ekiti, drew over 200 participants from diverse groups, including individuals with albinism, physical disabilities, and those with hearing and visual impairments.

The transformative seminar featured insightful presentations aimed at promoting holistic well-being. Mrs. Olawumi Famuyiwa, Director-General of Civic Orientation and Citizenship, addressed critical aspects of family life, sex, marriage, and self-dignity. Dr. Adedamola Igbindale, a Senior Registrar Psychiatrist at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido-Ekiti, spoke on "Stronger Together: Mental Well-being and the Power of Peer Support for Women with Disability," underscoring the vital role of community and mutual support in fostering mental wellness.

Participants actively engaged with the speakers, discussing strategies for navigating life's challenges, particularly within family and relationship contexts. A key component of the program was a mental health assessment session, led by Samuel Oyewole Ajayi, founder of Change Maker Mind Care, and anchored by Dr. Adedamola Igbindale. They administered questionnaires to evaluate attendees' mental well-being, providing counseling and follow-up support to those in need.

Adding a significant dimension to the event, Mrs. Toyin Adepoju, Special Adviser on Political Matters in the Office of the First Lady of Ekiti State, encouraged participants to obtain their voter's cards in preparation for the upcoming elections. She emphasized that this active participation would help them sustain such beneficial programs, which they frequently enjoy from the government of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. Mrs. Adepoju also received the community's appreciation to the First Lady for consistently involving women with disabilities in various empowerment initiatives from her office.

In her closing remarks, Princess Adetoun Agboola, Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, urged participants to prioritize their mental health and resist societal stigma that could diminish their self-worth. She highlighted the benefits of engaging in activities like exercise and dance to uplift spirits and cultivate a sense of community.

The program culminated in a significant act of empowerment, with over 100 participants receiving ₦50,000 empowerment grants to support their businesses. Additionally, individuals in need of specific tools to enhance their livelihoods received assistance, while unemployed women were noted for further support, which would be communicated shortly. The event concluded on an uplifting note with a vibrant dance session, symbolizing hope and resilience among the women with disabilities.

The government's unwavering commitment to upholding the rights and welfare of individuals with disabilities was reaffirmed by the presence of Dr. Ebenezer Ogunlade, Chairman of the Board of the Disability Agency, alongside Mrs. Olabisi Fatoba, Senior Special Assistant on Rehabilitation and Mental Health, who ably coordinated the program.

This Mental Health Programme marks a significant step, setting a positive precedent for future initiatives in Ekiti State aimed at fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for women with disabilities.

Traditional Rulers Back Oyebanji’s Social Inclusion Outreach as Ekiti Govt. Expands Drive, Empowers Hundreds of PWDs

In a human-centred move that underscores Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s commitment to inclusive governance, the Ekiti State Government has expanded its outreach to People With Disabilities (PWDs), delivering life-changing support across several communities in the state.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, reached hundreds of PWDs in Erijiyan, Ikogosi-Ekiti and Ipole-Iloro, offering everything from mobility aids and eye care referrals to vocational training and financial empowerment.

The outreach, which is part of the ongoing BAO Social Inclusion initiatives, goes beyond mere welfare as it signals a strategic, long-term investment in the social and economic participation of a marginalised group often ignored in development planning.

In Erijiyan, dozens of PWDs received mobility devices such as wheelchairs, crutches and guide canes, while others were referred to eye specialists for corrective treatment. 

Financial support was provided to petty traders to boost their businesses and those in livestock farming and needed farm inputs and processing equipment like smoking kilns to scale their operations were attended to. 

Children with disabilities were recommended for enrollment into special schools suited to their needs, while adults, both skilled and unskilled, were mapped for vocational training. 

Those without existing skills will also benefit from a three-month intensive programme at the PWD Skill Acquisition Centre in Ado-Ekiti, with accommodation, daily meals, monthly stipends, and start-up tools upon completion.

In her remarks, Princess Agboola, who led the delegation, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering every Ekiti citizen, regardless of physical ability. 

She emphasised that disabilities, especially in children, could often be corrected or properly managed with early intervention and community support.

Citing the example of Eniola, a physically challenged Ekiti indigene who recently won a national art competition, Princess Agboola stated that disability should never be a limitation, saying it is a collective expectation to equip and uplift, not to pity. 

She added that the financial support given to PWDs was for strengthening their means of livelihood, while food and clothing needs were separately addressed.

Princess Agboola also pledged consistent follow-up to ensure that the beneficiaries not only receive aid but are also monitored for progress and impact.

The outreach received royal endorsements from traditional rulers in the visited communities. At Erijiyan, the Olohan of Erijiyan, HRM Oba (Dr.) Adegoroye Oluwadare Omosebi, described the social inclusion efforts as a blessing to the people, praying for the continuity of Governor Oyebanji’s policies through 2030.

At Ipole-Iloro, the Olupole, HRM Oba Ezekiel Oladele, also praised the initiative and commended the governor for recognising the dignity and potential of PWDs, urging community members to support the governor’s second-term ambition, describing him as “a listening leader who backs his words with action.”

For beneficiaries like Mr. Kehinde Adebusuyi, who received crutches, food items, and financial help, the outreach was more than a government gesture—it was personal. 

“We’ve never seen this kind of direct intervention before, i urge all PWDs to get their voter cards ready and support Governor Oyebanji. He has shown that we matter,” he said.

The ongoing social inclusion drive under Governor Oyebanji’s watch is fast becoming a reference point in participatory governance as he has laid the foundation for a more inclusive, productive society by investing in the welfare, education and economic empowerment of PWDs. 

Fayemi Mourns Buhari, Says He Was a Tenacious Leader Misunderstood by Many

Dr Kayode Fayemi, the immediate-past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London on Sunday after a brief illness.

In a statement personally signed by him on Monday, Fayemi extended condolences to the Buhari family, the government and people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians, calling for prayers and support during this period of national mourning. 

He described the late President as a man of deep conviction and great tenacity, who never gave up on his dream of leading Nigeria democratically, despite suffering several electoral defeats before his eventual victory in 2015.

“President Buhari’s life was defined by resilience and an unyielding belief in the Nigerian project,” Fayemi said. “He contested and lost multiple presidential elections but never gave up on his commitment to the ideals he believed in. His eventual victory in 2015 and re-election in 2019 were testaments to his perseverance and the trust millions of Nigerians placed in his leadership.”

Fayemi, who served in Buhari’s cabinet as Minister of Mines and Steel Development and also chaired the APC Presidential Primary Convention that produced Buhari as the party’s flagbearer in 2014, noted that the former president left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s infrastructure landscape.

“His administration undertook some of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in recent Nigerian history, including massive road constructions, the revitalisation of rail transport, and the Second Niger Bridge. He believed in building for the future, and his legacy in this regard will long outlive his time in office,” Fayemi stated.

While acknowledging the challenges Buhari faced during his tenure, which ranged from economic instability to security issues, Fayemi emphasized that the late leader was “a fundamentally good man, often misunderstood, yet driven by a genuine desire to see Nigeria succeed.”

“History will be kinder to him than the moment allowed. He faced enormous trials, both as a man and as president, yet remained steadfast in his commitment to Nigeria’s unity and progress,” he said.

Fayemi concluded: “President Buhari has finished his course and fought the good fight. Yet his vision of a stable, united, and prosperous Nigeria remains unfulfilled. It is now our collective responsibility as leaders and citizens to ensure that his dreams for our great nation are realised. 

‘’We must build upon the foundation he laid and work tirelessly to achieve the Nigeria he envisioned.

"As we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate his life and contributions. 

‘’May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may God Almighty grant his family and our nation the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.’’

Signed

Dr Kayode Fayemi (CON)

Former Governor of Ekiti State

July 14, 2025

Amana State Movement Demands Redemption of 64-Year-Old National Promise

— DG Sali Bello tells House Committee: “We’re victims of a broken pledge made in 1961”

The Director-General and leader of the Amana State Movement, Alhaji Sali Bello (Dan Amar Mubi), made an impassioned plea for the creation of Amana State with Mubi as its capital, citing a historical promise made to the people of the former Northern Cameroons 64 years ago.

He made the plea, during a public hearing convened by the House of Representatives in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Saturday, July 12, 2025

Speaking before the committee, Alhaji Bello described the persistent denial of statehood and capital status for Mubi as a “grave national injustice” and called on lawmakers to redeem Nigeria’s solemn pledge made during the 1961 United Nations-supervised plebiscite that merged the Northern Cameroons with Nigeria.

“Our people voted to join Nigeria in 1961 based on clear promises of autonomy and equal status for Mubi with other provincial capitals like Kano, Maiduguri, and Katsina. But six decades later, we remain a forgotten people; stateless and sidelined,” Bello lamented.

He contrasted Nigeria’s treatment of the Northern Cameroons with that of Cameroon’s approach to the Southern Cameroons, who also took part in the plebiscite. 

According to him, while Cameroon created two full regions, North West and South West, for the Southern Cameroonians with Buea and Bamenda as their capitals, Nigeria has yet to grant similar recognition or autonomy to the Northern Cameroon, which is now part of Adamawa and parts of Borno.

“Out of 10 regions in Cameroon, Southern Cameroonians got two. Out of 36 states in Nigeria, we have none. That is not justice,” he added.

Alhaji Bello explained that the name “Amana”, which means “trust”, was carefully chosen to reflect both the historical roots and moral foundation of their quest, emphasising that the movement had fulfilled all constitutional requirements and was ready to work with all willing communities within the proposed territory.

He also extended appreciation to the people of Uba Chiefdom in Borno State for supporting the call for Amana State and urged other neighbouring communities to join what he described as a movement built on “trust, fairness, equity and justice.”

Reaffirming the group's loyalty to Nigeria, Alhaji Bello stressed that their agitation is not secessionist, but rather a demand for fairness within the Nigerian federation.

“We are loyal citizens of Nigeria, committed to her unity and progress. But we will never give up on our demand for the recognition of Mubi as a state capital; because that promise must be redeemed,” he said.

Alhaji Sali Bello submitted his points by dedicating the movement’s ongoing struggle to the memories of his three late predecessors who led the Amana State campaign before him, expressing hope that the current National Assembly and government will finally correct the historical oversight.

The public hearing is part of a wider consultative process by the House of Representatives on constitutional and structural reform, including state creation.

Hon. Deji Ajayi Lauds Rep Member for Solar Streetlights, Highlights Community Benefits

The Honourable Federal Commissioner representing Ekiti State at the National Population Commission (NPC), Mr. Ayodeji Ajayi, has conveyed the appreciation of landlords on Ooreofe Akintayo Street in Egbewa Estate, Ado-Ekiti, to Hon. Sola Fatoba, member of the House of Representatives for Ado/Irepodun-Ifelodun Federal Constituency for providing solar streetlights to the area.

Speaking in a statement, on behalf of the landlords, Mr. Ajayi thanked Hon. Fatoba for installing solar-powered streetlights in the area, describing the gesture as a thoughtful contribution that will improve security and quality of life in the community.

He commended the lawmaker for his continued support of the administration of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and for being a dependable partner in efforts to improve the lives of Ekiti residents.

Mr. Ajayi further encouraged other elected officials and private individuals to collaborate with the government in delivering projects that promote shared prosperity across the state.

The landlords of Ooreofe Akintayo Street pledged to safeguard the solar streetlights and all other public assets within the estate.

Fayemi Mourns the Passing of the Olubadan of Ibadanland

Dr Kayode Fayemi, the immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), has expressed sadness over the passing of the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd traditional ruler of the city. 

In a condolence message on Tuesday in Abuja by the Fayemi Media Office, Fayemi commiserated with the royal family, the Olubadan-in-Council, the government of Oyo State, and the people of Ibadan, describing the death of Oba Olakulehin as a monumental loss to the Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole. 

He further stated that the reign of the monarch, though short, was marked by ‘’peace, unity, and a commitment to cultural preservation.”

Fayemi said, ‘’The passing of His Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin is not just the loss of another traditional ruler, but of a statesman, an intellectual, and a bridge-builder who brought honour and foresight to the traditional institution.’’

He recalled that before ascending the throne, the late Olubadan had distinguished himself in the militarybusiness,ss and politics, bringing this rich experience to bear in his leadership of Ibadanland.

“Oba Olakulehin’s reign, though brief, was impactful in substance. He was a progressive royal father who believed in using tradition to support good governance, social development, and the unity of Nigerians,” he stated.

 

The former Ekiti governor prayed for the peaceful repose of the late monarch’s soul, and urged the people of Ibadan to take solace in his worthy legacies and the enduring institutions he helped to strengthen.

“May his soul rest in perfect peace,” Fayemi concluded.

Signed:

Mallam Ahmad Sajoh

Head, the Fayemi Media Office, Abuja

July 8, 2025

Governor Oyebanji Denies False Allegations of Defection to ADC

 

The attention of the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has been drawn to a false and misleading report being circulated online by some unscrupulous individuals.

The faceless individuals in the said report, alleged that Governor Oyebanji, alongside some leaders and office holders in the state, were being led to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), by the immediate past Governor of the State, Dr Kayode Fayemi.

Ordinarily, one would have ignored the highly puerile write-up, which is nothing but another tissue of lies from the camp of some disgruntled elements in the state. But, keeping quite in the midst of such a bare-faced falsehood would amount to a disservice to the good people of the state, some of whom could be hoodwinked into believing the misleading report.

For the avoidance of doubt, Governor Biodun Oyebanji and the public office holders mentioned in the report, remain firmly rooted in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and have no link, neither do they have any plan whatsoever to join the ADC. 

While Dr Fayemi and other leaders of the party mentioned in the report are eminently qualified to defend themselves, it is on record that Dr Fayemi attended the recent APC Caucus meeting held in Iyin- Ekiti, where the caucus endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji for a second term, a decision that was widely published in the print, broadcast and online media.

It should also be noted that Governor Oyebanji, had since inception of the Fourth Republic in 1999, remained in the progressive fold. He is one of the very few that has never moved out of the progressive movement in Ekiti State.

We are aware of a deliberate attempt by some mischief makers to weaponise Governor Oyebanji’s association with Dr Fayemi in a bid to cause a rift between the Governor and President Tinubu. Unfortunately for these jesters, Mr President is a strategic politician who can see through their shenanigans and hidden agenda.

Ekiti people are urged to disregard this childish media attack which is being sponsored by some desperate politicians interested in contesting the Governorship election in the state. While these desperate politicians have no clue about how to market their candidature to the Ekiti electorate or connect with the people, they have resorted to attacking the Government on social media and heaping up every unimaginable and unintelligent lies against the Governor in order to mask their frustrations.

Now that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the date for the primary election, we expect them to be bold enough to come out and sell their candidature to party members and Ekitikete rather than seeking an ignoble way to gate crash.

Signed

Olayinka Oyebode 

Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Ekiti State 

07- 07-2025

Oyebanji Inaugurates Ogunmoye as Chief Judge of Ekiti State

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Monday swore in Justice Lekan Ogunmoye as the sixth substantive Chief Judge of the state, with a charge to uphold justice with courage, integrity, and a strong sense of duty

 

Justice Lekan Ogunmoye who had served as the Acting Chief Judge since November 5, 2024, following the passing of his predecessor, Hon Justice Oyewole Adeyeye, was formally ratified by the Ekiti State House of Assembly on July 3, 2025 following a recommendation by the judiciary committee.

Speaking while performing the swearing-in at the Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office in Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji, who described the judiciary as the last hope of the common man, affirmed that his administration would continue to support the judiciary by prioritizing the welfare of its members and giving the Judge all the needed support to carry out his duties diligently.

Acknowledging the long standing reputation of excellent and dignity of the state judiciary and emphasizing the need to preserve this heritage, the Governor urged the new Chief Justice to continually raise the bar of excellent and ensure prompt and efficient service delivery that meet global standards.

The Governor said: “Your Lordship, history will judge you not by the accolades you receive today, but by the legacy you leave behind after your tour of duty. In this position, courage and integrity must be your constant companions. Let it be said in years to come that under your leadership, the judiciary of Ekiti State reached a higher standard—one that ensured justice for all, regardless of status, gender, or circumstance.

While congratulating the new Chief Judge on his deserved elevation, Oyebanji said his administration remains committed to the independence of the judiciary and will continue to support judicial reforms, provide resources for improved infrastructure, and promote initiatives that will enhance the delivery of justice across the state.

 “The position of Chief Judge is not a mere title—it is a sacred trust. The judiciary is the last hope of the common man because of the institution that guarantees the equality of all before the majesty of the Law. The institution must therefore, be guided, not by sentiment, fear, or favoritism, but by the Constitution and the dictates of the Law. As the most sacred, conservative and apolitical arm of Government, the Judiciary must be manned by persons of unimpeachable integrity, profound legal knowledge and astute administrative capability. These qualities therefore place upon the occupier of this exalted position, a sacred duty to uphold justice at all times regardless of whose interest is involved.  

“I therefore implore Your Lordship to be guided by a sense of duty flowing from your years of experience beginning as a State Counsel, and later the Solicitor-General of Ekiti State and much later a Judge of the High Court. It is delightful that one can attest to your unblemished record as a Judge of the High Court for nearly two decades and your eighth months in acting capacity as Chief judge. 

“The Ekiti State judiciary has a great reputation, one of excellence and dignity. This is a heritage we are proud of, and one we must protect and advance. I therefore, wish to say that there is more to be done in order to continuously raise the bar and to ensure prompt and efficient service delivery that meet global standards” the Governor asserted.

Earlier in his opening remarks,  the Attorney General and commissioner for Justice, Mr Dayo Apata (SAN), who commended Governor Oyebanji for his unwavering commitment to due process and the rule of law, said the Governor has continually demonstrated respect for independence of the judiciary

Mr Apata, who explained that the appointment of the new Chief Judge as the substantive Chief Judge was in compliance with the provision of law, stated that the Governor acted in accordance with the law, which empowers the State Governor to appointed a Chief Judge on the recommendation of the National Judiciary Council and subjected to the confirmation of the State House of Assembly

In his response, the new Chief Judge, Justice Lekan Ogunmoye, who expressed his gratitude to the Governor for the confidence reposed in him, acknowledged the Governor’s commitment to the independence and growth of the judiciary and promised not to betray the trust of the government and the people of the state.

Justice Ogunmoye stated that his vision for the Ekiti State Judiciary is to fully embrace digital transformation in order to enhance efficiency and speed in the administration of justice, stressing that his goal is to modernize court process through technology, making judicial service more accessible to the public while ensuring greater transparency and accountability across all levels of the judiciary

Also at the event were, President, Ekiti State Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Monisade Abodunde, Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi, members of the State House of Assembly, members of the State Executice Council, members of the Judiciary, Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejuyigbe, and stakeholders from across the state’s legal comunity.

IGP DEPLOYS CPs, TASKS THEM TO TAKE DECISIVE ACTIONS AGAINST CRIMES AND CRIMSLITIES

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, charges newly posted Commissioners of Police to uphold professionalism and quality leadership in their respective commands. He urges them to take decisive action against criminal elements threatening national security across the country.

A statement by the Force confirms that the new postings, which take immediate effect, align with the IGP’s vision to strengthen leadership in key areas and enhance operational performance. The deployments include CP Naziru Abdulmajid to Borno, CP Bello Afegbua to Cross River, CP Dahiru Mohammed to Jigawa, CP Adebowale Lawal to Ondo, CP Ibrahim Gotan to Osun, CP Eloho Okpoziakpo to Training and Development, and CP Olusegun Omosayin to FCID Annex Gombe.

The IGP reassures Nigerians of the Police Force’s commitment to public safety and national security, calling for sustained public cooperation in the ongoing fight against crime.

LASU GOVERNING COUNCIL APPROVES DISMISSAL OF PROFESSOR ABANIKANNDA AND DR KAREEM-IBRAHEEM

The Lagos State University (LASU) Governing Council at its 143rd Statutory Meeting held on Thursday, 3rd July 2025, approved the *DISMISSAL* of two academic members of staff, following allegations of serious misconduct bordering on Inhumane Treatment of Students, Sexual Harassment, and Financial Impropriety.

The Council considered the Report of the Joint Council-Senate Disciplinary Committee and upheld its recommendations in respect of:

1. *Prof. Olatunji Tajudeen Fasasi Abanikannada*, Dean, School of Agriculture, Epe Campus.

 

Prof. Abanikannda was dismissed over multiple allegations, including:- 

a. Subjecting 400 Level students of the School of Agriculture to inhumane treatment by keeping them on the farm from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. without break, food, and water even during torrential rainfall that lasted between 4:45 p.m. to after 6:00 p.m., an action prejudicial to the security of the University. 

b. Sexual harassment of female students of the same school.

c. subjecting staff members and students to emotional and physical trauma using threats, curses, derogatory utterances, and profane expletives on them, an act unbecoming of a public officer of the University.

d. Unauthorised collection of money from staff and students of the School of Agriculture, contrary to University regulations.

2. *Dr Khadeejah Olufunke Kareem-Ibraheem*, Lecturer I/Coordinator, Department of Animal Sciences, School of Agriculture, Epe Campus.

Dr kareem-Ibraheem was dismissed for:

a. Dereliction of duty as Coordinator, Department of Animal Sciences, by failing to adhere to the University’s approved guidelines, procedures and curriculum for Farm Practical Year (FPY), thereby exposing the students to hard labour on the farm.

b. Failure to remit to the University coffers, proceeds from sale of farm produce (amounting to over ₦10.6 million), which was kept in her personal bank account, as against the University guidelines.

These acts, tantamount to *“Serious Misconduct”,* are in contravention of the University's Conditions of Service for Senior Staff (2017, as amended).

*Both DISMISSALS take effect from Thursday, 3rd July 2025*.

The University Management reaffirms its commitment to maintaining the integrity of academic and administrative standards.

We are LASU, We are Great!

_Signed_

Emmanuel A. *FANU*

Registrar and Secretary to Council, Lagos State University