Ijero Local Government Leaders, Youth Stakeholders Unite at Inaugural Leadership Summit to Chart Path for Development

Ijero Local Government Leaders, Youth Stakeholders Unite at Inaugural Leadership Summit to Chart Path for Development

 The atmosphere at Adebomi’s Hall, Ojuoro, Aromoko Road, was electric as political leaders, traditional rulers, and youth advocates gathered for the maiden Ijero Local Government Leadership Summit and Stakeholders Engagement. The high-profile event, which centered on the theme of “Collaborative Leadership for Lasting Impact,” served as the official unveiling of The Ijero Local Government Youth Vanguard, a new coalition dedicated to mobilizing grassroots talent for the socio-economic advancement of the local government area.

Setting the tone for the engagement, the keynote speaker, Dr. Femi Thomas, Chairman of the Council of the Ekiti State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ijero, delivered a stirring address on the necessity of synergy. Dr. Thomas challenged the status quo, identifying a lack of collaboration as a primary bottleneck to local progress. Drawing a compelling comparison between the current state of Ijero and the rapid transformation of Abu Dhabi, UAE, he urged a shift in perspective. "Leadership is not an individual pursuit; it is the act of guiding others toward a common goal," Dr. Thomas remarked. "If we want to build the Ijero of our dreams, we must arise as youths, unite as leaders, and allow our traditional institutions to mediate. Synergy is the key to yielding bountiful results for our people."

The summit featured a robust panel session where Princess Adetoun Funmilayo Agboola, Special Adviser to the Ekiti State Government on Special Education and Social Inclusion, emphasized the importance of human capital development. Princess Agboola advocated for an inclusive approach to governance and growth, stating, "We must pool all our collective talents together to maximize our potential. Development is a collective responsibility and should not be left solely to those in political offices."

In recognition of their contributions to community development and leadership, both Dr. Femi Thomas and Princess Adetoun Agboola were honored with Awards of Excellence during the event.

The event’s centerpiece was the official inauguration of the Ijero Local Government Youth Vanguard, an initiative platformed by the Federation of Ijero Local Government Students Union (National Government). Engr. Gbenga Afeni, the Team Lead of the Vanguard, who delivered the opening remarks, expressed profound appreciation for the elders and leaders who turned out to support the youth-led initiative. The Vanguard, which aims to bridge the gap between youth energy and policy execution, is led by a dedicated executive committee comprising Team Lead Gbenga Afeni, Secretary Benson Adebayo Olawale, and members Ayeni Micheal, Aniyikaye Aduragbemi, Kayode Bukunmi Stephen, Agunbiade Elizabeth, and Ajisafe Ezekiel Oluwatosin.

His Imperial Majesty, Oba Joseph Adebayo Adewole, the Owa Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, commended the organizers for the initiative. In his address, he made a passionate plea for unity, urging political leaders, members of the academia, civil servants at both state and federal levels, and all sons and daughters of Ijero Ekiti, regardless of their specific towns, to come together to bring development and "goodies" to the Local Government. The monarch offered prayers for the organizers and the entire citizenry of Ijero across the globe, while also assuring the youth of his continued support for future iterations of the summit.

The event drew a wide array of stakeholders, signaling strong support from both the state government and traditional institutions. Notable dignitaries in attendance included HRM Oba James Kolade Oladipupo, the Olupoti of Ipoti Ekiti (represented by Mr. Garba Arogundade); Hon. Kole Ayeni, Chairman, Eso-Obe LCDA; Dr. Olufemi Bamise, Rector, ESCOTECH; Hon. Ojo Atibioke, Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Home Affairs (represented by Mr. Oluwafemi Erinle); Barr. Babatope Adeniyi Aboloyinjo; Hon. Folorunso Adeniyi Ajayi, S.S.A on Local Intelligence; and Mr. Gabriel Adesoji (AngelGabby), Special Assistant on New Media to the Governor of Ekiti State, among others.

The summit concluded with a unified commitment from all parties to prioritize dialogue and collaborative efforts, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing quest to transform Ijero Local Government into a model of development and effective local leadership.

TOA Celebrates Senator Biodun Christine Olujimi on Prestigious National Legislative Award 2026

TOA Celebrates Senator Biodun Christine Olujimi on Prestigious National Legislative Award 2026

The Nigerian political landscape is currently abuzz with celebrations following the conferment of the prestigious National Legislative Award 2026 upon the distinguished Senator Biodun Christine Olujimi. This notable recognition highlights her exceptional contributions to legislative governance, democratic development, and her unwavering commitment to the empowerment of women and youth across the nation.

Among the prominent voices celebrating this milestone is Ahmed Tajudeen Olutope (TOA), Esq., the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Ekiti East Constituency II. In a heartfelt congratulatory statement, the aspirant lauded the Senator for her remarkable record of public service and her enduring dedication to the welfare of the Nigerian people.

Highlighting the inspiration Senator Olujimi provides to the next generation of leaders, the APC candidate remarked that her impactful representation at the National Assembly and her commitment to advancing good governance serve as a model for all who aspire to serve with integrity and purpose. He further noted that her achievements have brought significant honor not only to their shared roots in the Ekiti East Local Government area but to Ekiti State and the entire country.

As Senator Olujimi receives this national honor, constituents and well-wishers have expressed that the award is a fitting tribute to a leader whose career has been defined by selflessness and high-impact service. The celebration serves as a collective acknowledgment of her legacy, with many looking forward to her continued contributions toward the development of the nation.

OYEBANJI RETAINS GOVERNING COUNCILS OF STATE-OWNED TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS

OYEBANJI RETAINS GOVERNING COUNCILS OF STATE-OWNED TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has approved the retention of the governing councils of all state-owned tertiary institutions for another term, citing their outstanding performance in repositioning higher education in the state.

The Governor said the decision is aimed at sustaining stability, strengthening institutional governance, and consolidating the gains recorded across the education sector.

Governor Oyebanji made this known on Monday while receiving members of the Governing Council of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti, led by its Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Patrick Aina, at his office in Ado-Ekiti.

According to the Governor, the decision will ensure continuity, policy consistency, and sustained progress in the administration of tertiary institutions across the state.

The Governing council of institutions affected by the decision include Ekiti State University, AdoEkiti; Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti; Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan-Ekiti; and Ekiti State College of Health Science and Technology, Ijero- Ekiti. 

Governor Oyebanji expressed satisfaction with the performance of the councils, noting that their visionary leadership, experience, and dedication have significantly improved academic standards and infrastructure development within the institutions.

While noting that his first term will conclude in October, the Governor emphasized the importance of sustaining initiatives and governance structures that have delivered positive outcomes. He added that retaining the councils would further strengthen institutional governance and prevent any disruption to the ongoing developmental momentum.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for tertiary institutions to thrive, stressing that education and human capital development remain top priorities of his government.

“On behalf of the Government of Ekiti State, I am extremely grateful to you for your contributions to the growth of BOUESTI. I am proud of the strides recorded, and it is clear that the future is bright.

“I am aware that this administration is winding down by October, but when a system is working, there is no need to disrupt progress. But let me say this, I am retaining all the governing council of our institutions, I need to say this so that people don't start winding down. I am retaining all of them - BOUESTI, EKSU, lsan Poly and College of Health Science and Technology, Ijero. I am proud of the quality of the council members in those institutions and when a system is working you can't just retard the progress. 

“So, SSG when you are making your announcement, leave these councils out. I don't want to truncate or limit the progress that is going on in those institutions. If there is one appointment I made and I'm so proud of, it is the quality of our governing council members”, the Governor said . 

Earlier, Prof. Aina congratulated the Governor on his re-election victory, describing it as a clear affirmation of the trust and confidence the people of Ekiti State have in his leadership, vision, and commitment to development.

He described the re-election as a historic and record-setting achievement, reflecting widespread acceptance of the administration’s people-centered policies and notable accomplishments across critical sectors.

Prof. Aina also noted that BOUESTI has witnessed significant growth and development under the Governor’s leadership, driven by sustained investment and support.

Other officials present at the meeting included the Secretary to the State Government, Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Niyi Adebayo; Commissioner for Education, Olabimpe Aderiye; and Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode. BOUESTI’s Vice Chancellor, Prof Babatunde Omojola and other principal officers of the institution were also in attendance.

Fayemi Congratulates Soyinka on 92nd Birthday

*Press Statement*

*Fayemi Congratulates Soyinka on 92nd Birthday*

Dr Kayode Fayemi, immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), has extended warm greetings to Nobel Laureate and literary icon Professor Wole Soyinka on the occasion of his 92nd birthday.

In a statement issued on Monday, Fayemi described Professor Soyinka as a towering symbol of intellectual excellence, courage, and cultural pride whose contributions to literature, human rights, and democratic ideals continue to inspire generations of Nigerians and Africans across the globe.

“Today, as Professor Wole Soyinka celebrates his 92nd birthday, I join millions of admirers in wishing this distinguished son of Africa a very happy birthday filled with joy, robust health, and continued fulfilment,” Fayemi said.

The former Ekiti Governor noted Soyinka’s enduring friendship and support over the years, describing it as a source of immense personal and intellectual enrichment.

He said, “Prof. Soyinka has been a consistent voice of conscience, a mentor, and a steadfast friend whose guidance and solidarity I have deeply valued. His commitment to truth, justice, and the defence of human dignity remains a shining light for our nation.''

Fayemi commended the literary giant for his lifetime of advocacy and creative output, which have earned him global acclaim, including the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, and urged younger generations to draw inspiration from his exemplary life of principle and purpose.

Fayemi prayed for continued good health, strength and longevity for the literary icon, expressing confidence that Soyinka's wisdom and voice would continue to guide Nigeria's public discourse for many more years.

"On behalf of my family and me, I wish Kongi a joyous 92nd birthday, in continued good health, robust vigour and abundant grace. Nigeria remains richer for his presence and his enduring legacy," the statement concluded.

Signed

Mallam, Ahmad Sajoh

Head, Fayemi Media Office, Abuja

July 13, 2026

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI MOURNS APC CHIEFTAIN, PA OMODARA

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI MOURNS APC CHIEFTAIN, PA OMODARA

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed deep condolences over the death of a prominent leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Prince Gabriel Omodara, popularly known as “Baba QC”.

Pa Omodara, a former Chairman of the defunct Ekiti Central Local Government, passed away in the early hours of Sunday, at the age of 93 years.

Governor Oyebanji, In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the late elder statesman’s passing as a significant loss to the APC, the progressive family in Ekiti, the Ado-Ekiti community, and the state at large.

The Governor noted that Pa Omodara was one of the most dedicated leaders of the party, who worked tirelessly with other stakeholders to build a strong and enduring political structure for the APC in the State.

He further described the deceased as a man of integrity and wisdom, whose counsel and leadership would be sorely missed.

Governor Oyebanji also commended Pa Omodara’s invaluable contributions to the development of Ado-Ekiti and Ekiti State, particularly during his tenure as Chairman of the then Ekiti Central Local Government, (which comprised Ado and Ifelodun/Ifelodun Local Government Areas). He added that the late politician devoted his latter years to community development and mentoring a new generation of leaders.

Recalling his last meeting with Baba QC, the Governor said the late leader showed no signs of ill health at the time. He, however, emphasized that Pa Omodara lived a fulfilled life, served selflessly, and left behind a legacy of honour, integrity, and enduring impact.

The Governor urged the family of the deceased to take solace in the exemplary life he lived and the lasting legacies he left behind.

“On behalf of the Government and the good people of Ekiti State, I commiserate with the immediate family of our departed leader, Pa Omodara, the APC and progressive family in Ekiti, and the people of Ado-Ekiti. We pray that God grants Baba eternal rest and gives the family the strength to bear this irreparable loss,” the Governor said.

Gov Oyebanji, Niger Governor Bago, Others Bid late Chief Daramola Farewell*

*Gov Oyebanji, Niger Governor Bago, Others Bid late Chief Daramola Farewell* 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji and his Niger State Counterpart, Mohamed Umaru Bago, on Friday joined other dignitaries to pay last respect at the final burial ceremony of renowned educationist, Chief Francis Adebayo Daramola.

The late Chief Daramola, father of former member of House of Representative, Hon. Bimbo Daramola, was a frontline member of the Ekiti Council of Elders, and the first elected Chairman of Oye Local Government between 1991-1993. 

Other dignitaries at the funeral include, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afute, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, former Governor Segun Oni, former Governor Ayodele Fayose, Candidate of the People’s Democratic Party at the Just Concluded Ekiti Governorship election, Dr Wole Oluyede, members of the National and State Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, among others.

Speaking at the burial service held at the St John’s Church, Anglican Communion, Ire Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji described the late Chief Daramola as one of the distinguished educators who helped shape the foundation of quality education in the old Western Region and Old Ondo State, adding that the deceased lived a fulfilled life marked by integrity, service to humanity and commitment to the development of his community, the state and the country at large.

The Governor noted that the commitment of the late Daramola to education, mentorship and community service had left an enduring impact on countless lives and would continue to serve as a beacon for future generations .

Also in his remarks, Niger State Governor, Mohamed Umaru Bago described the funeral as a celebration of a life well spent, saying the late Chief Daramola lived an exemplary life devoted to education, community service and the development of humanity

Noting that attaining the age of 99 years with such an enduring legacy was a testament to God’s grace and impactful life the deceased lived, the Niger Governor urged the children and family of the deceased to take solace in the outstanding legacy left behind

In his homily, the Bishop of Ekiti Anglican Diocese, Rt Revd Andrew Olusola, described the late Chief Daramola as an accomplished educationist and devout Christian whose life was marked by selfless service, integrity and commitment to the growth of the church, education and humanity. He added that the deceased lived a fulfilled life, impacting countless lives through his dedication to mentoring young people and serving his community

While noting that the late Chief Daramola’s enduring legacy of discipline, humility, and service to humanity would continue to speak for generations to come, Bishop Olusola reminded the congregation that life on earth is temporary and charged everyone to live purposefully with eternity in view.

The Ire Ekiti community hailed the late Daramola as a pace setter and a source of inspiration being the town’s first University graduate. They prayed for the repose of his soul. 

Other groups including the old students of Christ’s School, Ado Ekiti; Ekiti Elders Coucil, Inland Club, among others also paid tributes to the late educationist.

OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES SWDC BOSS, AKINOLA ON 70TH BIRTHDAY

OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES SWDC BOSS, AKINOLA ON 70TH BIRTHDAY 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has congratulated the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of South West Development Commission (SWDC), Dr Charles Akindiji Akinola on his 70th birthday.

The Governor in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, said Dr Akinola has made a great impact as a multi-sectoral technocrat, public servant and public policy strategist of note.

Reflecting on the antecedents of the birthday celebrant, Governor Oyebanji said Dr Akinola can look back with pride and fulfillment and thank God for 70 years of fruitful and result-oriented contribution to statecraft and nation building.

He hailed Dr Akinola for his selfless service to his native Osun State which he served meritoriously as Chief of State to the Governor between 2018 and 2022, where he was central to policy coordination, governance reforms and executive decision-making.

Governor Oyebanji pointed out that Dr Akinola's worth and pedigree were appreciated by his fatherland with his appointment as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Marine and Blue Economy with an unforgettable role in shaping Nigeria's emerging ocean economy agenda, maritime governance and economic diversification.

The Ekiti helmsman added that Dr Akinola's emergence as the pioneer Managing Director/Chief Executive of South West Development Commission further demonstrates President Bola Tinubu's faith in his competence and capacity to drive a coordinated policy thrust to make the geopolitical zone a model in the key sectors and better standard of living for its people.

He expressed delight that Dr Akinola since his assumption of office as the SWDC boss has been using the position to champion regional integration, economic renewal and institutional innovation in Nigeria to the applause of his countrymen and women.

The Governor charged Dr Akinola to use the occasion of his milestone birthday to rededicate himself to continued service of mankind, the nation, and the South west geopolitical zone in years ahead.

He prayed God to grant Dr Akinola long life, sound health and energy to continue to be a great asset to the nation and its people.

“On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I congratulate this great achiever and wish him many more productive years in the service of our great nation”, the statement added.

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPROVES RECONSTRUCTION OF ADO-IJAN-ILUMOBA-IKOLE ROAD

PRESIDENT TINUBU APPROVES RECONSTRUCTION OF ADO-IJAN-ILUMOBA-IKOLE ROAD

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the reconstruction of the Ado-Ijan- Ilumoba- Ikole road.

The road project is to be funded through the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Project Fund of the Federal Government. 

The letter communicating the President’s approval for the road construction was dated July 1, 2026, addressed to the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr Dave Umahi, Chairman of Nigeria Revenue Service, Mr Zach Adedeji and copied to Govenror Biodun Oyebanji. 

The new development. Is coming barely seven months after construction work commenced on the Itawure-Aramoko-Ado Ekiti road following the President’s approval. 

The Ado-Ijan-Ilumoba-Ikole road, which connects the South West region with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and provides access to the Federal Polytechnic, Afe Babalola University, Ekiti Agro Allied International Cargo Airport, Ekiti Knowledge Zone, and Federal Institute of Transport Technology, has been in a deplorable condition for many years following persistent neglect by previous administrations. 

President Tinubu, had in a recent meeting with Governor Oyebanji and the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, promised to prioritize the construction of the road through its inclusion in the Renewed Hope Projects. 

Governor Oyebanji thanks President Tinubu for fulfilling his promise to intervene on the road. He describes the development as another evidence of the President’s love and support for Ekiti State, as well as his commitment to the infrastructure upgrade across the country in line with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Road infrastructure is a critical aspect of the development agenda of the Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji administration. The administration had, in the last three and a half years, constructed over 285 kilometers of inter- city and intra-city roads including the 1.2 kilometers flyover. It has also constructed 135km of rural roads through RAAMP. This is in addition to recently awarded road contracts at different stages of completion. 

The State is also collaborating with the Federal Government and international development partners for road infrastructure upgrade in line with the Shared Prosperity Agenda of the administration.

Olayinka Oyebode

Special Adviser on Media to the Governor, Ekiti State 

08-07-2026

Dr Ayodeji Ayodele Dada Declare Total Support for Hon Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju.

Ekiti North Federal Constituency 2, 2027

Dr Ayodeji Ayodele Dada Declare Total Support for Hon Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju.

A Major Contender in The Just concluded APC House of Representatives Primaries in Ekiti North Federal Constituency 2, Ido Osi,Moba and Ilejemeje, 

Dr Ayodeji Ayodele Dada dissolve his campaign structure and declare total support for the candidate of All Progressive Congress Hon Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju (IBO).

Yesterday, Saturday 4th July 2026 was a remarkable day at Dr. Ayodeji Dada Orin Ekiti country home, Where all his supporters and followers were charged to support and work for Hon Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju in the forthcoming National Assembly Election.

Dr Ayodeji Ayodele Dada who came Second in the just concluded APC Primary Election for Ekiti North constituency 2, He whole heartedly accepted the outcome of the Exercise and Congratulate the winner of the primary election, Hon Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju (IBO), in the spirit of sportsmanship, he declared total support for IBO in the coming presidential and National Assembly Election.

In the spirit funfair, He use the medium to thank his supporters for the work done to ensure that Mr Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji BAO was reelected and promise that the governor will continue to foster unity and perform well for the good people of Ekiti State.

Present at the meeting, The Director General of the Team , Mr Owolade Dimeji, Frontline Politician, Pastor Fagbemile Oluremi , Hon Femi Omobepade and host of others.

Representative of Hon Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju IBO, at the meeting,Hon Adebayo Famoroti commends Dr Ayodeji Ayodele Dada sportsmanship spirit and also for embracing peace and see the contest as a call to serve.

 

 Hon Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju IBO will not let the people of Ekiti North Federal Constituency 2 Down he said.

Oyebanji Visits Freed Eda Oniyo Kidnap Victims, Warns Against Politicising Security Issues

Oyebanji Visits Freed Eda Oniyo Kidnap Victims, Warns Against Politicising Security Issues

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Sunday visited victims of the Eda Oniyo kidnap incident at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti, where they are currently receiving treatment following their release.

The Governor’s visit came barely 24 hours after the victims were admitted to the hospital on his directive.

Governor Oyebanji, who was received by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Human Services, Mrs. Olusola Gbenga-Igotun, and the Acting Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee, Prof. Oladele Olatunya, strongly condemned the incident, assuring residents that decisive steps are being taken to safeguard lives and property, as well as make the state hot for criminal elements.

He cautioned residents against politicising security and kidnapping issues, stressing that matters of security must not be trivialised.

While commiserating with the victims at their wards, the Governor expressed gratitude to God for their safe return. He described their ordeal as painful and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

Governor Oyebanji reiterated that the state government would bear the full cost of the victims’ medical treatment and provide psychological support to aid their recovery and reintegration into society. He also commended Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support in strengthening security architecture across the states.

The Governor praised security agencies for their coordinated efforts that led to the successful rescue and also appreciated traditional rulers, community leaders, and members of the Eda Oniyo Community Development Association for providing valuable intelligence during the operation.

Describing the incident as unfortunate, the Governor said it was unacceptable for individuals to be attacked while worshipping, adding that collective responsibility is required to ensure safety.

He expressed satisfaction with the victims’ condition, noting that all of them were stable and responding to treatment, including a child who had earlier been unconscious but had regained consciousness.

On behalf of the victims, a relative, Mr. Akin Oluwayemi, expressed appreciation to the Governor and security agencies for their efforts, while calling for a sustained security presence in border communities to prevent future occurrences.

The victims, who were abducted in Eda Oniyo, a boundary community in Ilejemeje Local Government Area, regained their freedom after over 60 days in captivity following a joint security operation.

In a related development, Governor Oyebanji also settled the medical bills of three indigent patients at the hospital who had been unable to pay after discharge.

The Governor, who noticed the patients while leaving the ward, immediately offset their bills—amounting to over two million naira—and directed that they be discharged to reunite with their families.

Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Fasuba Taiwo expressed gratitude to the Governor and offered prayers for his family and administration.

EKITI STATE COUNCIL OF TRADITIONAL RULERS CONGRATULATES GOVERNOR ABIODUN OYEBANJI ON HIS REELECTION

PRESS RELEASE

 

 

EKITI STATE COUNCIL OF TRADITIONAL RULERS CONGRATULATES GOVERNOR ABIODUN OYEBANJI ON HIS REELECTION

 

The Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers held its Statutory meeting on the Tuesday, 30thh June 2026. During the meeting, Council considered among other things, matters of profound importance to Ekitiland.

 

Among the resolutions of the day, Council resolve:

 

I. To warmly congratulate the Governor of Ekiti State, Omoluabi Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji, on his reelection on the 20th June, 2026 for the second term in office as the Governor of Ekiti State.

 

II. Council commended his purposeful leadership, impressive achievements and his respectful disposition to the traditional institution.

 

III. Council noted the historical significance of his reelection as the first governor to break the jinx of second term succession, and urged him to continue to do his best for Ekiti people.

 

IV. Council pledged its solidarity, prayers and supports to the Governor at all times.

 

V. Council noted, with great satisfaction, the peaceful and orderly nature of the election which was without crises, chaos and cries of malpractices.

 

VI. Council noted that the election was first of its kind in the history of Ekitiland, where previous elections, since colonial era, had always been greeted with breakdown of law and order, and brutal destruction of lives and property among political opponents.

 

VII. Council commended all the contestants for their courage and spirit of sportsmanship, and urged them to work with the Governor for the overall progress of Ekiti State.

 

VIII. Council commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the security agencies, election observers, party leaders and other stakeholders for a job well done.

IX. Council prayed for the peace, progress and prosperity of Ekitiland.

 

 

 

 

Signed:

 

HM Oba Adejimi Adu Alagbado

 

Agirilala II,

 

Ogoga of Ikere-Kingdom &

Chairman, Ekiti Council of Traditional Rulers

 

July 01, 2026.

*Oyebanji targets 700,000 votes for Tinubu in 2027, pledges inclusive governance after historic re-election*

*Oyebanji targets 700,000 votes for Tinubu in 2027, pledges inclusive governance after historic re-election*

… Says opposition leaders will be carried along as politics gives way to governance

Backs speedy approval of state police, says governors ready for implementation

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Wednesday projected that the state would deliver between 600,000 and 700,000 votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election, expressing confidence that the target is achievable following the growing electoral support for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Speaking with journalists at State House after meeting President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Oyebanji, who was in the company of the Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, said the steady rise in the party’s electoral performance since 2022 showed that the President’s re-election prospects in Ekiti were “very bright.”

The governor, who recently secured a historic second term in office, said APC won about 187,000 votes in the 2022 governorship election, increased the figure to about 210,000 during the 2023 presidential election, and recorded about 318,000 votes in the just-concluded governorship poll.

He said, “The President’s chances are very bright. In 2022 when we first contested, we won with about 187,000 votes. Six months later, when the President contested and I had only been in office for a few months, we increased it to about 210,000 votes.

“This 2026 governorship election has produced about 318,000 votes. So you can extrapolate from that and see that our target in 2027 is between 600,000 and 700,000 votes, and it is doable”, he said.

Oyebanji attributed his unprecedented re-election victory, the first by any governor in Ekiti State, to what he described as God’s grace and President Tinubu’s support, saying both factors enabled his administration to fulfil its promises to the people.

“It is not about what I have done differently. It is about two factors: the grace of God, and the support of the President that enabled us to deliver on our promises to our people. These are the two factors that led to the result we saw two weeks ago”, he said.

The governor also pledged to run a more inclusive administration in his second term, stressing that the election was over and governance must now take precedence over politics.

He disclosed that he had already reached out to his major opponents after the election, saying he personally called both candidates and had already visited one of them alongside the chairman of his campaign council.

According to him, he would also visit the other opposition candidate on his return to Ekiti, adding that both had assured him of their cooperation in the interest of the state’s development.

“The election ended when the winner was declared. I phoned the two other candidates and, together with the chairman of the campaign council, we visited one of them. Once I get back to Ekiti, I will visit the other one.

“They have assured me of their cooperation because election has ended, politics has ended and we have to move back to governance. I told them I would need their wisdom, suggestions and advice in ensuring that we continue to deliver for our people”, he said.

On his agenda for a second term, Oyebanji said his administration would remain committed to implementing Ekiti State’s 30-year development plan, explaining that the long-term blueprint would continue to guide government policies, annual budgets and development priorities.

“We are not going to do anything differently because that 30-year development plan is the basis upon which our yearly budgets are built and upon which our manifesto is crafted. We will continue to diligently follow that plan”, he stated.

The governor also expressed support for the proposed establishment of state police, saying governors across the country were ready to fast-track its implementation once the constitutional amendment process was completed.

He said the National Economic Council had already deliberated on the issue and that most states had submitted their positions in support of the initiative.

“We are ready for state police. We are thankful to the National Assembly for the constitutional amendments, and we are waiting for them to be transmitted to the state Houses of Assembly.

“The governors have made up their minds that they are going to give it speedy approval so that we can start implementation”, Oyebanji added.

Owa Announces Plan to Establish Ijesa Mining Corporation, Says Enough is Enough

Owa Announces Plan to Establish Ijesa Mining Corporation, Says Enough is Enough

The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, has announced plans to establish the Ijesa Mining Corporation to drive economic development in his kingdom.

The declaration was made by the Owa Obokun when the Alase of Ilase, Oba Isiaka Adesina Ajarabiolu, accompanied by his chiefs, paid a courtesy visit to his palace.

The paramount ruler announced that the mining corporation will be officially registered under the joint ownership of the six Local Government Areas in Ijesaland and the Owa Obokun palace, thereby constituting seven shareholders.

The Owa Obokun recalled knowing some non-indigenous mining companies, notably GAMRA and Odutola, in the 1950s, before Segilola Resources Operating Limited, a leading mining company, commenced operations in the area.

Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup stated that the time has come for the Ijesas to assume control of their destiny by exploiting their God-given resources to foster development in the six Local Government Areas of Ijesaland.

He emphasized that ten percent of the revenue will be allocated to the community where the exploitations occur, while the remainder will be utilized for balanced development across the six local governments.

The paramount ruler of Ijesaland stated that the Owa in council is fully aware of all Complaints regarding the infiltration of certain northerners into some villages and towns, emphasizing that the palace committee on security is fully in charge of the matter.

He called upon the traditional rulers in Ijesaland to lend their support to the committee's endeavors to prevent impending crimes in the area

The Alase of Ilase Ijesa, Oba Isiaka Adesina Ajarabiolu, had earlier provided a progress update on Obokun University, Ilase, and alerted the Owa Obokun to the boundary dispute existing between Ilase and Osogbo.

Alase, a recently elevated Part One Traditional Ruler, notified the error in the naming of the military depot in Ilase Ijesa and sought the Owa's assistance in correcting the mistake at the Ministry of Defense.

Present during the meeting were the Alase in council, the president of Ilase National Union, Barr Dupe Ajayi-Gbadebo, Odole of Ilesa, High Chief Afolabi Makanjuola, the Loro of Ilesa, High Chief Lekan Foloruns, Looja Bode Owofade, Bajimo of Ilesa, Chief Amos Ogunbiyi, Saluwa of Ilesa Chief Samson Awe, Baseemi of Ilesa, Yeyerise of Ilesa , Chief Mrs Hannah Ojo, Yeye Loro, Yeyedofin, Yeye Bajimo, Yeye Sapaye, Yeye Lejoyi and Yeyebaodo.