I ‘ll always respect Ekiti People as My Benevolent Employer, says Oyebanji

I ‘ll always respect Ekiti People as My Benevolent Employer, says Oyebanji 

...as PWDs hail gov's recruitment policy at town hall meeting 

As engagement with stakeholders entered the second day in preparation for the 2027 Budget in Ekiti State, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, has declared that he will continue to respect every Ekiti indigene, no matter the status, saying he considered the citizens as his employer who deserve attention at all times. 

The Governor commended the citizens for their sacrifices and support for his administration in the last four years, stressing that the landmark achievements of his administration were as a result of the support of the people. 

Governor Oyebanji stated these on Thursday, during the Town Hall Meeting with stakeholders from Ekiti South Senatorial District as part of preparations for the 2027 Budget, held in Igbara-Odo, Ekiti Southwest Local Government Area of the State. 

At the all-inclusive engagement, traditional rulers, community leaders, people living with disabilities and other stakeholders across the district, pledged stronger support for the Governor’s administration in his second term, which begins on October 16, 2026, to ensure speedy delivery of his shared prosperity agenda.

Speaking at the interactive session, Governor Oyebanji said his administration would reintroduce five kilometre roads execution across the local government areas as a way of boosting accessibility and economic development in the rural areas. 

The Governor also promised to fastrack action on the disbursement of funds to market men and women to power commerce and productivity, adding that human capital development will remain a top priority of his administration.

On the consistent agitations for more development in Ekiti East Local Government Area, Governor Oyebanji, alluded to the council as Ekiti's gateway to the Northern region and promised to devise ways of wooing private developers to boost development projects in the area. 

"I have absolute respect to Ekiti people and will never disrespect them. You put us in this job. You are our employer, your voices needed to be heard and listened to. So this engagement is not a waste of time. It is designed to get your input to the development agenda of the government through your involvement in budget preparation. 

"I have listened to you patiently. I agree with our communities that we need to intensify efforts and provide more electricity facilities , effective road connectivities and more educational facilities that improve the welfare and wellbeing of our people". 

Justifying the second term ambition of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Oyebanji boasted that those planning to rig the election and botch the reelection will fail in their evil plot, adding that Ekiti voters will stand by the President on account of his performance and the success of his economic policies.

"You have heard some people boasting that they will win the forthcoming election even without election. This is not going to work in this Tinubu's election. You saw what happened during our governorship election here in Ekiti. The election outcome would have been better, but the BVAS malfunctioned in some areas and some of our elderly people had to go back home after waiting for hours. 

"But in this coming presidential election, we are going to give double of what you gave to us to President Tinubu. I know that we can do it easily. 

"Let me say this emphatically, it is only him that can do this restructuring. He wouldn't have been able to do anything if he wants a second term at all costs, or if he is someone that is not strong willed. This is why he is being commended globally. Our people in Ekiti shouldn't disappoint him". 

Cataloguing the desires of their citizens, representatives of Ayekire Local Government and Onimesi of Imesi Ekiti, Oba Olatunji Olatunde, that of Ekiti Southwest Council, Chief Gbenga Agbona and Deacon Kayode Falola for Ekiti East, called for the revival of the five kilometre road projects to boost people's access, as well as uplift the aesthetic values of each town. 

To buffer flooding and associated disasters, they called on the government to expedite actions on erosion control in some towns in the area, while also help in extending electricity, healthcare facilities, educational utilities and siting of a higher institution in the zone to spur access to higher education.

In the same fashion, representative of Ikere Local Government and Sapetu of Ikere, Prof. Femi Babatola, that of Ise/Orun, Elder Tunji Falana, and Chief Abegunde Adedayo, who spoke on behalf of Emure council's budgetary needs, appealed for increased investments in power, road, health and education sectors, to open a vista of economic prosperity for the populace.

They appealed to government to focus copious attention on security development of the porous border posts , by engaging in consistent forest combing, to dislodge the criminal elements. 

Lauding Governor Oyebanji's recruitment policy, Mr. Damola Ogunleye, who spoke for the People Living With Disabilities, saluted the governor for ensuring that 5 percent of recent teacher’s recruitment were reserved for its members, as recommended by the Governor. He described this as a masterstroke that had helped in alleviating poverty and strengthen the doctrine of inclusivity. 

Revealing the government's efforts to entrench functional education in the system, the Education Commissioner, Dr. Olabimpe Aderiye, said the state now has a total of 958 primary and 200 secondary schools, with actions being taken to tackle dropout through free education and robust partnership with private institutions. 

Prominent personalities at the event were: the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo; Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi; members of the State Executive Council; local government chairmen; traditional rulers; political leaders; and representatives of various communities.

MY SECOND TERM PROJECTS ‘LL BOOST COMMERCE, PRODUCTIVITY , SAYS OYEBANJI AT TOWN HALL MEETING ON 2027 BUDGET

MY SECOND TERM PROJECTS ‘LL BOOST COMMERCE, PRODUCTIVITY , SAYS OYEBANJI AT TOWN HALL MEETING ON 2027 BUDGET

…Says Ekiti’ll take Tinubu’s re-election seriously

…As monarchs, youths pledge more support for governor

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has assured that projects to be executed in his second term will be deliberately targeted at boosting commerce, enhancing productivity and stimulating sustainable business growth, with a view to deepening value addition and positioning the state’s economy on a higher trajectory.

The Governor also declared that Ekiti State would take the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 presidential poll very seriously, pledging intensified mobilisation to increase the President’s vote tally in the state.

Governor Oyebanji spoke on Wednesday during a Town Hall Meeting with stakeholders from Ekiti North Senatorial District as part of preparations for the 2027 Budget, held in Ifaki-Ekiti.

At the engagement, traditional rulers, community leaders, youth representatives and other stakeholders across the district pledged stronger support for the Governor’s administration in his second term, which begins on October 16, 2026, to enable the delivery of his shared prosperity agenda.

Reiterating his commitment to inclusive governance, the Governor said the consultative approach adopted by his administration would be strengthened in the second term to deepen public participation and reinforce unity across the state.

He emphasized that government investments would be strategically channelled into critical sectors such as healthcare, electricity, road infrastructure and water supply, noting that such interventions would improve living standards and drive economic productivity.

“In our second term, whatever we are going to do must add value, because resources are limited. There must be value addition. We must catalyse productivity and ensure our people are productive. It is only when there is value that artisans like welders and auto mechanics can thrive and become prosperous,” the Governor said.

On local economic development, Oyebanji noted that his administration had made efforts to expand electricity access to some communities, adding that progress had been constrained by existing legal frameworks that limit states to power generation without distribution authority.

He reaffirmed his belief in participatory governance, stressing that community inputs would guide project prioritisation.

“Governance is about the people. We are what we are today because of you. You gave us your mandate, and we must continue to seek your counsel in delivering good governance,” he added.

The Governor also commended traditional rulers for their support, particularly in intelligence gathering, which he said had contributed significantly to improved security in the state. He, however, urged continued vigilance among residents.

Speaking on the 2027 presidential election, Oyebanji called on Ekiti voters to reciprocate President Tinubu’s support for the state by delivering higher votes.

He cited key federal appointments and infrastructure interventions benefiting Ekiti, including the emergence of top-ranking public office holders from the state, as evidence of the President’s commitment.

“We must show appreciation. It will not be enough to repeat previous figures. We must do more in the next election,” he said.

On infrastructure, the Governor disclosed that ongoing collaboration with the Federal Government had facilitated the award of major road projects, including the Ado-Ijan-Ilumoba-Ikole and Ado-Aramoko-Ita-Ore roads, adding that other critical roads would be addressed subsequently.

Providing sectoral updates, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Oyebanji Filani, revealed that over 300 nurses and 1,500 health assistants had been recruited in the last four years, alongside significant upgrades of primary and secondary healthcare facilities. He added that three new general hospitals had been approved for Ipao, Ikogosi and Awo-Ekiti.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Infrastructure and Public Utilities, Prof Bolaji Aluko, disclosed that over 500 boreholes had been constructed across the state, with an additional 110 proposed to ensure equitable water distribution.

In their remarks, traditional rulers and community representatives from across Ekiti North Senatorial District commended the Governor for ongoing development efforts and outlined priority needs for the 2027 Budget, including roads, electricity, water supply, healthcare and security.

They particularly praised the completion of key road projects and recent security interventions, while appealing for accelerated attention to infrastructure deficits in their respective communities.

Speaking for Ikole Local Government, the Alaaye of Oke Ayedun, Oba Femi Aribisala, appealed to government to speedily intervene in the council in the area of road, water and electricity sectors, lamenting that lack of good road access and poor electricity supply were constituting impediments to the growth of local economy. 

Representatives of Moba Local Government and Obaleo of Erinmope, Oba Sunday Aniyi, that of Ido/Osi and Olojudo of Ido Ekiti, Oba Ayorinde Ilori-Faboro and that of Oye Local Government and Onisan of Isan Ekiti, Oba Gabriel Adejuwon, called for more attention on roads, electricity, security and water supply to enhance the welfare and well-being of the populace in the 2027 budget.

Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo; Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi; members of the State Executive Council; local government chairmen; traditional rulers; political leaders; and representatives of various community groups.

OYEBANJI HANDS OVER 100 NEWLY PURCHASED OPERATION VEHICLES TO SECURITY AGENCIES

OYEBANJI HANDS OVER 100 NEWLY PURCHASED OPERATION VEHICLES TO SECURITY AGENCIES

 ….Vows to sustain Ekiti State’s status as Safest state in Nigeria 

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining the state’s status as the safest state in Nigeria, assuring residents that his government would continue to strengthen the security architecture of the state to ensure security of lives and property across the state

The Governor gave the assurance on Monday in Ado Ekiti while presenting 100 newly purchased operational vehicles to security agencies in the state to further enhance their capacity to combat crime and respond effectively to security challenges. 

The beneficiary security agencies include the Nigerian Police, Department of State Service (DSS), Nigeria Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service, Federal Road Safety Corps, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency , Nigeria Prison Service, and the Amotekun Corps. 

Speaking during presentation ceremony held at Osuntokun Pavilion, Government House, Aso Ekiti on Monday, Governor Oyebanji said the initiative is part of his administration’s sustained commitment to protecting lives and property as well as ensuring that Ekiti maintains the accolade of the safest and most secure state in Nigeria.

The Governor maintained that security had remained a top priority of his administration since assumption of office, noting that his government had, over the years, provided various forms of support to security agencies, including patrol vehicles, armoured personnel carriers, military vests, helmets and other protective equipment.

According to him, the latest provision of 100 security vehicles would further enhance the operational capacity of security personnel, particularly in patrol and field operations.

He added that the intervention is in addition to other investments and monthly financial support provided by his administration to security agencies operating in the state.

The Governor also used the opportunity to commend all security agencies operating in the state for their professionalism, skills and dexterity at combating crime as he urged them to intensify their activities ahead of the forthcoming inauguration slated for October and the presidential election in January. 

Governor Oyebanji, who stressed the need for increased visibility, faster response and greater operational agility added, “To our security chiefs, I say to whom much is given, much is expected. With the introduction of these vehicles, I expect to see increased action, strategic visibility, faster response and greater operational agility on the part of our men and women.”

He further urged security chiefs to ensure that the vehicles and other resources provided by the government were deployed effectively to protect residents and maintain security across Ekiti State.

“Today’s occasion is testament to the resolve of our administration to ensure the security of lives and property in Ekiti State remains the number one priority of our government. Since our assumption in office, we have shown serious commitment to the security of the citizens and this has led to the selection of Ekiti State as one of the most secured States in the country. 

“Two years ago, we also distributed patrol vehicles, armoured personnel carriers, military vests, helmets and other protective equipment to security agencies. Today, we are providing 100 units of security vehicles, primarily for the operations and monitoring of personnel and the implementation of the state’s security initiatives.

“Apart from the vehicles we are providing today, our administration will continue to support security agencies with all necessary resources allocated to their work. We remain committed to our regular monthly financial support to all the agencies, while also enhancing the capacity of our state-owned security institutions. He stated.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Special Adviser Security Matters. Brig. General Ebenezer Ogundana (rtd), who said Governor Oyebanji’s administration has continued to demonstrate in practical terms strong commitment to the safety of lives and property in the state as evident in peace the state had continue to enjoy, maintained that the peaceful atmosphere had attracted positive developments to the state.  

While explaining that the sustained peace has also contributed to Ekiti being ranked among the most peaceful and safest state in the country, Gen. Ogundana added that the new operational vehicles would enable security agencies to respond promptly to security challenges and further improve their mobility and effectiveness in protecting lives and property across the state.

In their separate goodwill messages, the representatives of the Commissioner of Police, DCP Mohammed Musa and the Commanding Officer, 148 Battalion, Ikere, Lt. Col. Dimka expressed their appreciation to the Governor for his continued support and cooperation with the security agencies in the state. They said the Governor’s commitment to strengthen the security architecture has contributed immensely to the relative peace and security being enjoyed across the state.

They assured the Governor that the vehicles would be deployed appropriately to further enhance their mobility, responsiveness and operational effectiveness of security personnel particularly in situations where prompt response is critical.

Also at the event were, the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo and Service Chiefs, among others.

OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES TINUBU'S WIFE ON 66TH BIRTHDAY

OYEBANJI CONGRATULATES TINUBU'S WIFE ON 66TH BIRTHDAY 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has congratulated the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on her 66th birthday.

The Governor in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, said the 66th birthday of the wife of the President offers an opportunity to celebrate her virtues, worth, impact and legacies.

Governor Oyebanji said Senator Tinubu has acquitted herself well in her role as the Mother of the Nation and her compassion has given succour and positively changed the lives of many Nigerians since she became First Lady in 2023.

Governor Oyebanji described Senator Tinubu as a pillar of support for the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, GCFR over the years and in the quest for a better, stronger and more prosperous nation.

He hailed the impact of Senator Tinubu as a teacher who contributed to the nation's manpower development, politician, first lady of Lagos State, a distinguished Senator in the National Assembly and now as the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Governor Oyebanji noted that the First Lady, through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), has touched many lives in virtually all parts of the country in the areas of education, poverty alleviation, empowerment of the vulnerable citizens like the orphans, physically challenged, the aged, market men and women, among others.

He emphasized that beneficiaries of the Senator Tinubu's legacies abound in Ekiti State noting that students from the state benefited from scholarships and laptops computers, female farmers got financial support and farming inputs while widows and senior citizens received foodstuff, cash grants and other largesse through Renewed Hope Initiative.

These, according to him, are in addition to the ICT centre facilitated for the Ekiti State University, Ado- Ekiti by the First Lady, whom he described as a good friend of Ekiti and a strong supporter of the administration’s development efforts in the State. 

The Governor noted that Ekiti State has benefited from Senator Tinubu's milk of human kindness through her personal generosity and the platform of her pet project citing her recent visit to the State during which thousands of traders were empowered and the inauguration of a state-of-the-art ICT Centre at Ekiti State University under the Renewed Hope Initiative.

Governor Oyebanji prayed God to spare the life of the First Lady and grant her long life, sound health and wished her many happy returns of the day on behalf of the government and the good people of Ekiti State.

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI TO PRESENT OPERATIONAL VEHICLES TO SECURITY AGENCIES

PRESS RELEASE

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI TO PRESENT OPERATIONAL VEHICLES TO SECURITY AGENCIES

In a bid to further strengthen the security architecture in Ekiti State, the State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, will on Monday present newly acquired operational vehicles to security agencies in the State.

The presentation ceremony, which will involve the formal handover of the vehicles to heads of the various security agencies, will take place at the Osuntokun Pavilion, Government House Grounds, Ado-Ekiti.

The provision of the operational vehicles underscores the determination of the Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji administration to rid the State of crime and criminality by equipping security agencies with the necessary logistics and operational support.

This initiative is part of the BAO administration’s sustained investment in the safety, welfare and overall wellbeing of residents, in line with its Shared Prosperity agenda.

Signed

Olayinka Oyebode

Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor

20-09-2026

Erelu Bisi Fayemi Calls for Dismantling Structural Inequality at the 5th Annual Gender and Inclusion Summit

Erelu Bisi Fayemi Calls for Dismantling Structural Inequality at the 5th Annual Gender and Inclusion Summit

Former First Lady of Ekiti State and prominent women's rights leader, Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi , delivered a compelling call to action at the recently concluded fifth annual Gender and Inclusion Summit (GIS), convened by the Policy Innovation Center (PIC).

Commending Dr. Osasuyi Dirisu, Executive Director of the PIC, and the organization’s leadership for an exemplary convening, Erelu Fayemi played a central role in the program by chairing the high-level Economic Inclusion session on the opening day and delivering the closing remarks at the Women in Leadership Breakfast meeting on Day 2.

Addressing stakeholders under this year’s theme, ‘From Agenda to Action: Making Innovations Count for the Last Mile,’ Erelu Fayemi challenged participants to confront an uncomfortable reality: Why does the economic empowerment gap between women and men continue to widen, or at best remain stubbornly persistent, despite numerous federal and sub-national interventions?

Erelu Fayemi emphasized that while various programs have been introduced over the years, innovation must target the underlying systems producing exclusion rather than simply helping women navigate a fundamentally unequal environment. She urged leaders to evaluate critical structural questions, including why women still possess less control over productive assets, why they remain underrepresented where economic decisions are made, what drives persistent barriers to finance, markets, and technology, and why unpaid care work is treated as invisible alongside discriminatory social norms.

"Unless we address these structural issues, we risk designing better programmes around fundamentally unequal systems. Innovation should not simply help women navigate inequality; it should help dismantle it," Erelu Fayemi stated.

Expanding on the intersections of society and economy, Erelu Fayemi stressed that a woman cannot be economically empowered in the marketplace while being denied basic personhood elsewhere. She forcefully argued that gender-based violence, unpaid care burdens, restrictive social norms, unequal household power dynamics, lack of property rights, and limits on mobility are not peripheral "gender issues", they are fundamental components of economic infrastructure. She noted that women cannot exercise economic agency where fear defines their daily lives, insisting that women's safety must be integrated directly into economic policy rather than treated as a separate social concern.

Concluding her engagements at the summit, Erelu Fayemi maintained that economic programs alone cannot transform women's lives. Sustainable progress requires stronger institutions, robust legal implementation, accountability systems, political representation, lifelong learning, and elevated women's leadership. She underscored that true institutional innovation requires the political will to make gains sustainable, concluding that ambition must be bigger than simply getting more women into the economy to build a society where women hold the rights, safety, resources, voice, and agency to determine their own terms of participation.

Joyful Moments at Irewolede LCDA as Hon. Modupe Bakare Marks 60th Birthday with Massive Food Palliative Outreach

Joyful Moments at Irewolede LCDA as Hon. Modupe Bakare Marks 60th Birthday with Massive Food Palliative Outreach

It was an atmosphere filled with immense joy, gratitude, and celebration at Irewolede LCDA as the Executive Chairman, Honourable Mrs. Modupe Bakare, brought broad smiles to the faces of elders and widows through a well-coordinated food distribution initiative. The event, which drew massive excitement from community members, was organized to mark the landmark celebration of her 60th birthday. Rather than hosting an exclusive celebration, the celebrant chose to share her milestone joy directly with the vulnerable segments of the population, reflecting her deep-seated commitment to grassroots development and humanitarian service.

Marking a significant highlight of the day, more than 100 elders and widows were presented with substantial food palliatives. This outreach served as the inaugural humanitarian project of the newly launched Fakehinde Bakare Divine Hand Foundation. Designed with a clear mission to provide continuous support and uplift the living standards of elders, the less privileged, and widows within the community, the Foundation made a resounding first impression by ensuring that vulnerable households had direct access to food relief during these challenging economic times.

Beneficiaries expressed profound appreciation as they received their food items, noting that the intervention came at a time when relief was most needed. Mr. Gbabe Joseph, one of the appreciative elders from Temidire within Irewolede LCDA, described the palliative as a timely source of relief. He warmly commended Hon. Dupe Bakare for her unwavering consistency in taking care of the elderly and ensuring they are never forgotten. He concluded his remarks by offering heartfelt prayers for the continued growth and success of the Fakehinde Bakare Divine Hand Foundation.

Echoing similar sentiments, Mrs. Adeola Racheal radiated happiness as she shared her joy over the palliative support received. She emphasized that the timing was perfect, stating that it aligned precisely with the period she needed assistance the most. Mrs. Racheal showered fervent prayers on the Honourable Chairman of Irewolede LCDA, thanking her for consistently extending numerous goodies, development opportunities, and welfare packages to the entire populace of Irewolede LCDA.

As the remarkable event concluded, leadership of the Fakehinde Bakare Divine Hand Foundation hinted that this outreach is only the beginning of a larger vision. Organizers announced that another set of food palliatives will be distributed to more community members before the current year runs out. With such visionary leadership and impactful grassroots initiatives championed by Hon. Mrs. Modupe Bakare at 60, the future looks exceptionally bright for the vulnerable residents of Irewolede LCDA.

DR DARE OWOTOMOBI MOURNS ,COMMISERATES WITH ABDUL’AZIZ YARI OVER DEATH OF HIS MATERNAL AUNT.

DR DARE OWOTOMOBI MOURNS ,COMMISERATES WITH ABDUL’AZIZ YARI OVER DEATH OF HIS MATERNAL AUNT.

The Global Chairman, Bola Ahmed Tinubu Solidarity Vanguard Campaign Council (PCC) has commiserated with with the Director-General of our Principal Presidential Campaign Council, Senator Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar, over the death of his maternal Aunt ,Hajiya Rukiya(Rakkiya)Jibril, Zamfara State. 

The deceased gave up the ghost at Uthman Danfodio University Teaching Hospital in Sokoto in the evening of Tuesday, 15th September, 2026 after a brief illness.She is the immediate younger sister to the mother of Senator Abdul’aziz Yari

The condolence message charged Senator Yari to see her demise as will of Allah, who is the giver and taker of live and implore the immediate family to take consolation in the good life and the legacy of their Matriarch.

Dr. Owotomobi said it is hard to lose a beloved one,even though she died at a ripe age of 85 years, but we pray for the repose of her soul.

 The BATSV Boss said ,this kind of moment always provide an opportunity for us to refects on the supremacy of our God Almighty and ephemeral of all of us mortals that we shall definitely return to show our scores card to our creator one day.

The Bola Ahmed Tinubu Solidarity Vanguard worldwide stand in solidarity with Senator Yari and his family at this moment of grief.And we are praying for the repose of the deceased’s soul and asking Almighty Allah to grant the family the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.

We therefore charged our,His Excellency, Senator Yari, to be strong in faith as a dedicated moslem in this moment ,as he continues to forge ahead with wisdom in his new assignment.

Signed:

Ambassador (Dr.) Dare Owotomobi, fcpa 

Global Chairman, 

Bola Ahmed Tinubu Solidarity Vanguard, 

Nigeria & Diaspora

Abuja

17th September, 2026

EKSU Governing Council Appoints Dr. Jadesola Babatola as 7th Substantive Registrar

EKSU Governing Council Appoints Dr. Jadesola Babatola as 7th Substantive Registrar

 The Governing Council of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, has announced the appointment of Dr. Jadesola Taiwo Babatola as the 7th substantive Registrar and Secretary to the Council. The appointment, which follows the Council’s regular meeting held on Thursday, September 17, 2026, is for a single term of five years and takes effect from Monday, October 5, 2026, according to a statement issued by Mayowa Ogunlola, Deputy Registrar and Head of the Directorate of Information and Corporate Affairs at EKSU.

Born into the eminent family of the late Chief Dr. J.E. Babatola, the Olora of Ado-Ekiti and a renowned educator and politician, Dr. Babatola’s academic and professional journey is deeply rooted in excellence. He attended the historic Christ's School, Ado-Ekiti, before proceeding to the then-Ondo State University (now EKSU), where he earned a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) degree in History in 1990. He further obtained a Master of Science degree in Political Science (Public Administration) from the University of Ibadan in 1997 and a Ph.D. in History and International Studies from EKSU in 2019.

A consummate university administrator and higher education manager, Dr. Babatola began his career with a brief stint in the private sector before joining the services of Ekiti State University as an Administrative Officer I in 2001. Over the decades, he has carved a formidable niche as an historian, public analyst, and institutional leader.

Dr. Babatola brings a wealth of leadership experience to his new role. His track record of institutional governance includes serving as Registrar & Secretary to Council at the National Institute for Educational Planning and Administration (NIEPA), Ondo (2017–2018); Federal Polytechnic, Ekowe Island, Bayelsa State (2018–2021); and Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo (2021–2025). He has also previously served as a Commissioner in the Ekiti State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and provided institutional leadership as the Global Alumni President of EKSU in 2007. Prior to his latest appointment, he served as a Deputy Registrar at EKSU.

Dr. Babatola is heavily invested in professional development. He holds fellowship and membership statuses in numerous prestigious bodies, including the Nigerian Institute of Management (FNIM), Chartered Institute of Administration (FCIA), Institute of Management Consultants, Institute of Corporate Administration, Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM), Association of Nigerian University Professional Administrators, Association of University Administrators (UK), and the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators.

Widely traveled and a holder of several honorary chieftaincy titles across various communities, Dr. Babatola is happily married to Chief Mrs. Modupe Babatola, and they are blessed with grown-up children. As he steps into his new office, the university community joins the Directorate of Information and Corporate Affairs in wishing Dr. Babatola a remarkable, impactful, and successful tenure as he steers the administrative machinery of Ekiti State University.

Gov. Oyebanji Charges Ekiti Youth Parliament on Integrity, As Hon. Ibrahim Olarenwaju Trains 5th Assembly on Effective Representation

Gov. Oyebanji Charges Ekiti Youth Parliament on Integrity, As Hon. Ibrahim Olarenwaju Trains 5th Assembly on Effective Representation

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has charged members of the state's Youth Parliament to cultivate strong leadership skills, uphold high ethical standards, and embrace selfless service in discharging their legislative duties. Represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Oyeniyi Adebayo, during a one-day capacity-building training for the 5th Assembly held at the Governor’s Office in Ado-Ekiti, the Governor emphasized that the parliament offers a vital platform for youths to gain governance experience and serve their constituents effectively. He noted that since October 2022, his administration has heavily invested in education, agriculture, sports, and youth development, including the establishment of a full-fledged Ministry of Youth Development, to ensure young people become self-reliant and productive citizens.

Delivering an insightful keynote teaching titled “The Art of Effective Representation: From Constituency Needs to Legislative Action,” Keynote Speaker and facilitator Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarenwaju drew from his national legislative experience to school the young lawmakers. He detailed the three core constitutional functions of the legislature, law-making, oversight, and representation, while cautioning them against common hurdles such as bureaucratic delays, resource constraints, and competing interests. Hon. Olarenwaju urged the participants to look beyond physical projects and master how to translate grassroots needs into tangible legislative outcomes through proper motions, bills, and continuous community engagement.

In his goodwill message, Technical Advisor on Youth Inclusion, Hon. Ayo Ojo, commended Governor Oyebanji for putting together such a remarkable program, noting that legislative processes and governance demand deep discipline, integrity, and intellectual maturity. He challenged the young parliamentarians to approach the training with utmost seriousness and ensure that the knowledge acquired translates into purposeful contributions on the floor of the House and positive impacts on the lives of Ekiti youths.

Adding his voice to the encouragement, Dr. John Moyo Ekundayo, Director-General/Special Adviser Office of Transformation and Service Delivery (OTSD), urged the parliamentarians to put their best foot forward as a very bright future awaits them. He advised them to listen attentively, take comprehensive notes, put lessons into daily practice, and embrace the continuous cycle of learning, unlearning, and relearning.

Setting a strong administrative tone for the assembly, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Adesola Gold Adedayo, officially welcomed stakeholders and participants to the conference hall. Highlighting the administration's steadfast commitment to youth empowerment, Hon. Adedayo underscored that the training was a strategic investment in democratic governance. He reminded the 5th Assembly members that their conduct must consistently reflect the core values of discipline, intellectual maturity, accountability, and respect.

The high-impact capacity-building event drew an array of distinguished personalities, key government functionaries, and stakeholders. Those who attended and added immense value to the program includes the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tertiary Institutions, Prof. Azeez Akeem; Director General Bureau of Community Communication, Hon. Mary Oso-Omotosho, Ministry of Youth officials; and members of the 5th Assembly of the Ekiti State Youth Parliament.

In concluding the robust engagement, stakeholders reiterated that the quality of leadership desired for Ekiti State tomorrow heavily depends on the character, discipline, and legislative capacity built among young leaders today. The program successfully closed with renewed commitments from both the state government and the youth parliamentarians to deepen the foundations of grassroots democracy, transparency, and people-oriented representation across all constituencies.

Ekiti State Welcomes Newly Crowned Queen Moremi of SWAD, Queen Abiodun Idowu Wonderful

Ekiti State Welcomes Newly Crowned Queen Moremi of SWAD, Queen Abiodun Idowu Wonderful

The Special Adviser to Ekiti State Governor on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola, has formally received the newly crowned Queen Moremi of the South West Association of the Deaf (SWAD), Queen Abiodun Idowu Wonderful.

Queen Idowu was warmly ushered into the office of the Special Adviser by a delegation of prominent female deaf leaders, notably Mrs. Omoniyi Omotanwa Obadare, a respected member of the Ekiti State Disability Board and Mrs. Omoboja Ogunkuade Former Woman Leader of Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) among Others.

The royal pageant, which showcased the rich cultural heritage and brilliance of the deaf community, took place on August 6, 2026, at the Badagry Grammar School Hall. The fiercely contested competition featured twelve exceptional contestants, two representing each of the six Southwest states: Ekiti, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos.

During the event, contestants dazzled the audience and judges by demonstrating their unique cultural dance skills as recommended by the panel. Participants also engaged in a rigorous question-and-answer segment, selected via a random number-picking process.

Standing out amongst the stellar lineup of twelve contestants, Queen Abiodun Idowu Wonderful from Ekiti State clinched the prestigious title by securing the highest score of the competition. She won through her striking bold appeal, outstanding performance, and unshakable confidence throughout all phases of the event.

Receiving the newly crowned queen, Princess Adetoun Agboola heaped commendations on her for her stellar and exceptional performance at the pageant. She also congratulated the female deaf leaders for their dedication and mentorship, assuring them of the continuous support of the state government through her office. Princess Agboola further expressed her profound excitement, noting that the Governor would be filled with immense joy to see that his most cherished constituents, Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in Ekiti State, are standing out and excelling brilliantly among their contemporaries from other states.

Highlighting a glowing legacy of excellence, Princess Agboola recalled that the state's disability community has consistently brought immense pride to Ekiti. She noted that at the last National Sports Festival that was held in Ogun State, athletes from the disability community secured the state's only gold medals. Furthermore, she celebrated the academic and creative brilliance of students from the Government Special School, Ido-Ekiti, and the Government Special School, Ikoro-Ekiti, who triumphed in state art competitions. Among them, Mr. Eniola Awelewa stood out remarkably, advancing to the national level where he proudly clinched a prestigious fourth-place finish for Ekiti State.

This royal visit and these landmark achievements further reinforce the Ekiti State Government's steadfast commitment to championing social inclusion, empowering persons with disabilities, and celebrating the remarkable accomplishments of citizens across all walks of life.

Ekiti Guber Tribunal Slams SDP Over Lack of Diligent Prosecution of Case

Ekiti Guber Tribunal Slams SDP Over Lack of Diligent  Prosecution of Case 

Miffed by display of lacklustre spirit to  prosecute its case, the Ekiti State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal on Tuesday, slammed the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and 1st petitioner over unnecessary delay in presentation of witnesses for speedy trial of the petition.

The Chairman of the three-man tribunal, Justice Abubakar Idris Kutigi, expressed disappointment and anger over the way the petitioner's counsel, Ebenezer Akingbule, who stood in for the lead counsel, Adebayo Adewole,  was foot-dragging and adopting  delay  tactic in the presentation of witnesses.

After the tribunal's adjournment, the court premises became charged, as SDP members, who considered themselves the real owners of the party made spirited efforts to attack those they described as "impostors" parading themselves as witnesses. 

Policemen on guard had to quickly intervened and urged the party members to go outside the court's premises to resolve their internal wranglings, which was a replica of the internal crisis that played out on Monday when the party's candidate withdrew his case. 

The SDP and 1st petitioner in the case, is challenging the victory of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress in the June 20 election, claiming that the conduct of the poll didn't  substantially comply with the Provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026.

During the tribunal's proceeding held on Monday, the party's candidate and second petitioner in the matter, Amb Isaac Adedayo Alade, had withdrawn his petition, leaving behind only the SDP to prosecute the case. 

The candidate of the People's Democratic Party and runner up in the poll, Dr Wole Oluyede, had during the tribunal's inaugural sitting of last Monday, withdrawn his petition and was struck out accordingly. 

At the trial on Monday, Justice Kutigi could not hold back his disappointment at the counsel to the petitioner over inability to present witnesses in court and for craving for adjournment to do same, after telling the panelists that the witnesses were ready. 

Speaking pointedly, Justice Kutigi, emphasized the imperative of the counsel closing his case, if he realises that his witnesses are no longer available, rather than to tactically waste the precious time of the tribunal.

Justice Kutigi, who frowned at the action, said the SDP lawyer must make up his mind and ensure the matter is not stalled unnecessarily, saying procrastination could constitute serious snags and impediments to the electoral trial. 

"We can't continue to indulge you or allow you to tender apology over flimsy excuses. You can't continue to waste the time of the court here. Why are you behaving as if you are not ready for this case? Any serious  practitioner must have put his house in order. You don't know the volume and even the serial number of exhibits and witnesses. We are not going to indulge you again. 

"Do you think we are here to play. You are deliberately wasting our time because you knew that your witnesses are not around. You knew that the petitioner has internal crisis. You can't say at one breath that they are ready and the next time you are saying they are not available. 

"Why can't you just say the truth and ask for adjournment to be able to put everything in order. You said they were here, have they now  disappeared?  Later you said they are here, but not within range. What are you trying to say?

"Our own is for you to do the right thing and you can go and take care of your internal crisis later. If you know you can't get witnesses, then close your case within reasonable time, so that you won't waste our time".

However, Justice Kutigi granted adjournment sought by the counsel to the petitioner and ordered him to present the witnesses on Wednesday, September 16 unfailingly. 

Meanwhile, perceiving  the enormity of the infraction he had committed and how furious the jurists were over his conduct, Akingbule tendered apology to the Tribunal for the delay, saying he has 11 witnesses to call , but were not within range due to unforeseen circumstances. 

"I was with the witnesses till around 1:00 am this morning. I want you to indulge me till Wednesday , so that I can assemble them. I was only cut in the web of this SDP internal  crisis. Please, give me a day adjournment to be able to do the proper thing". 

The petitioner's counsel also craved  for short adjournment over the petition  filed by the Action Alliance, to present the witnesses in alignment with the pre- hearing orders. 

Prior to Justice Kutigi's  intervention, the  counsel to Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and 1st respondent, Barr Suleiman Ibrahim, described the petitioner's lacklustre approach to the speedy trial of the case as disturbing, urging the tribunal to order them to present their witnesses, so that the matter can proceed expeditiously.

"I don't think they are ready for this matter . They have flouted  the pre- hearing orders that witnesses must be brought to court as ordered . They are not keeping to this promise. The petitioner had breached the schedules of witnesses, because it was supposed to be within 24 hours. If he serves us today about those to be called tomorrow, it will still not be up to the 24 hours as required by the Electoral Act. 

"My lord,  if you look at their conduct properly, you will know that  the petitioner is not substantially prepared to continue with this case. He has breached the pre- hearing order and I will invoke this provision to ask that he closes his case to save the tribunal's time". 

The counsel  to Governor Oyebanji, Adetunji Oso, maintained similar position outlined by the INEC's lawyer ,stating that the petitioner can't continue to take the tribunal for granted, by clutching onto weak straws to frustrate the trial. 

"In any petition of this nature, The level of preparedness of the petitioner  will determine our own readiness too. Even up to now, they  are still using Abuja address and yesterday, the tribunal told them to use a specific address within this jurisdiction, but they flouted this order".  

On the internal crisis rocking the SDP, which was having a toll on the trial's velocity, Oso, said: "They displayed that they have  internal crisis here yesterday(Monday). Some SDP members  were chanting and accusing the counsel to the petitioner of bringing impostors to the Tribunal as witnesses. We have the video, we can play it here.

"They should blame their poor performance on internal crisis, instead of blaming the state government. We are not objecting to his adjournment, but he has just six weeks to prosecute his case and there may not be any extension of time".

TOA INAUGURATES MANDATE ORGANIZATION IN EKITI EAST CONSTITUENCY II

TOA INAUGURATES MANDATE ORGANIZATION IN EKITI EAST CONSTITUENCY II

…Distributes campaign posters, handbills, banners and caps; pledges quality representation and empowerment for youths and women

The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Ekiti State House of Assembly in Ekiti East Constituency II, Hon. (Barr.) Tajudeen Olutope Ahmed (TOA), has inaugurated the TOA Mandate Organization (TMO) to strengthen grassroots mobilisation across the constituency.

The colourful inauguration, held on Sunday, 13th September 2026, also featured the distribution of campaign posters, handbills, banners and caps across the seven wards of Ekiti East Constituency II.

In a statement issued by the TOA Media Team and made available to journalists in Ado-Ekiti, the event attracted APC leaders, political stakeholders, serving and former public office holders, youths, women and supporters from across the constituency.

Speaking at the event, the APC Chairman in Ekiti East Local Government, Chief Clement Ojo, urged party members to remain united and work collectively towards securing victory for all APC candidates.

He called on the people of Ekiti East to replicate the overwhelming support given to Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji during the recent governorship election by voting massively for APC candidates in the forthcoming elections.

The State Chairman of the APC Elders’ Forum, Chief Oni, described Barr. Tajudeen Ahmed as an Omoluabi and an accomplished lawyer whose experience, integrity and political influence would be deployed towards attracting meaningful development to Ekiti East Constituency II.

Similarly, the Chairman of the APC Elders’ Forum in Ekiti East Local Government, Alhaji Tiwonloju Bello, appealed to constituents to vote massively for TOA, expressing confidence in his ability to provide effective representation.

He described TOA as a brilliant lawyer and urged the people not to misconstrue the professional demands of legal practice, noting that lawyers have a duty to defend their clients within the ambit of the law.

The APC chairmanship candidate for Ekiti South-East LCDA, Hon. Adenike Ogunleye, congratulated Barr. Tajudeen Ahmed on the establishment of the TMO. She urged voters across the constituency to support all APC candidates, including herself, in the forthcoming elections.

In his remarks, the APC Chairman of Ward 10, Ilasa-Ekiti, Hon. Segun Abejide, expressed appreciation to Governor Oyebanji for creating a level playing field and providing opportunities for political inclusion.

He noted that Ward 10 had never simultaneously produced candidates for the chairmanship of the LCDA and the State House of Assembly in the political history of Ekiti East Local Government, describing the present opportunity as significant.

He therefore appealed to the other wards to support Barr. Tajudeen Ahmed and all APC candidates seeking to represent the people at the House of Representatives, Senate and presidential levels.

The inauguration was also attended by the serving member representing Ekiti East Constituency II in the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Lateef Akanle Kongo, and a former member of the House of Assembly, Hon. Dare Pelemo, who is also the Local Government Chairman of the Iruwa-Ogiriwa Group.

Hon. Pelemo, a leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), assured the gathering that Wards 10 and 11 would deliver overwhelming support for TOA at the polls.

He called on political stakeholders and residents of Omuo-Oke, Kota, Isaya, Araromi-Ugbesi and Ahan-Ekiti to embrace unity and support candidates from the constituency whenever it is their turn to contest for political office.

A respected APC leader from Ilasa-Ekiti, Chief Bayo Arowofila, appreciated party leaders and stakeholders for coming together to support Barr. Tajudeen Ahmed. He urged other political leaders and stakeholders across the constituency to rally behind TOA and support his aspiration to represent the people effectively.

In his address, Barr. Tajudeen Olutope Ahmed thanked the party leaders, stakeholders, supporters and well-wishers who attended the inauguration. He also expressed appreciation to the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for providing a level playing field and promoting inclusive political participation.

He explained that the TMO was established to complement the activities of the APC Campaign Council when constituted and to provide an additional platform for effective grassroots mobilisation across the constituency.

According to him, early mobilisation had become necessary because various political and interest groups, as well as members of other political parties, including the PDP and African Democratic Congress (ADC), had expressed their readiness to work with the TMO.

Barr. Ahmed reiterated his commitment to initiatives promoting community development and the empowerment of youths and women. He assured constituents that their views and interests would remain central to his representation.

He also promised to engage party leaders and constituents regularly through town hall meetings and other consultative platforms to ensure inclusive and people-oriented representation.

Youths from across the constituency attended the inauguration in solidarity with the TOA candidacy. Speaking on their behalf, Mr Adeyeye Tosin David appealed to the candidate to involve young people in the formulation and implementation of programmes and policies, stressing that meaningful youth participation was essential for effective representation and sustainable development.

The youths pledged their commitment to working towards delivering all seven wards of Ekiti East Constituency II for TOA at the polls.

Other prominent personalities at the event included renowned journalist Comrade Olawale Ezekiel Ogunyebi; the Secretary of the APC in Ekiti East Local Government, Hon. Joseph Ayewa; former two-term APC Chairman in the Local Government, Hon. Kehinde Oluwatuyi; and the Secretary of Ekiti South-East LCDA, Hon. Yemi Alala, popularly known as Yemite.

Also in attendance were APC ward chairmen, serving councillors, councillorship candidates, party leaders, community stakeholders, youth leaders, women leaders and other notable personalities from across the constituency.

Several political leaders and stakeholders sent representatives or tendered apologies, including Engr. Sunday Komolafe of Ward 3; the Chairman of Ekiti South-East LCDA, Hon. Anthonia Omonusi; the APC House of Representatives candidate, Rt. Hon. Femi Bamisile; Hon. Marcus Alo; the co - contestant with TOA at the House of Assembly party primary election, and Chief Joshua Ajayi Omo-Iya, who was commended for his continued support for the TOA Mandate Organization.

The event recorded an impressive turnout, with women’s groups adding colour and excitement through songs, chants and traditional music as supporters expressed solidarity with the TOA candidacy.

The inauguration marked another significant step in the mobilisation drive ahead of the election, with the TOA team reaffirming its commitment to building broad-based support across the seven wards of Ekiti East Constituency II.