Gov. Oyebanji holds Iftar for Muslims leaders, hails religious harmony in Ekiti

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has commended the Muslim community in the State for their unalloyed support for his administration as well as their demonstrated commitment to religious harmony and peaceful coexistence with adherents of other faiths.

The Governor said the support of the Muslims has been a major tonic driving development in the State, adding that peaceful coexistence among the citizens remains a viable platform upon which real development is built.

The Governor, made these assertions on Monday during the Iftar (breaking of fast) he hosted for Muslim leaders across the 16 local government areas of the State at the Jibowu hall, Government House, Ado Ekiti on Monday.

Governor Oyebanji, who also called for continued support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noted that the various achievements of his administration was made possible because of the support he received from the President, stressing that President Tinubu has fulfilled all the promises he made to the State during the electioneering campaign in 2022.

While thanking the President for giving provisional approval for the construction of Itawure- Aramoko -Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji said the road is capable of improving the socio-economic development of the State as well as serve as impetus for electoral victory in the June 20 Governorship election and the January 2027 presidential election.

He added that the contractors handling the project have promised to move to site in the next two weeks.

Governor Oyebanji at the event, spoke glowingly about the excellent performance of the Muslims serving in his government, stressing that he would cede more appointive positions to members of the Muslim community if re-elected for a second term.

“There is no doubting the fact that the support from the Muslim community is unadulterated. I know you love us genuinely. I promise to continue to do more for you because all the Muslims in my government are doing creditably well from the Secretary to the State Government and that is the reason it is possible for us to be counting fifty-one of them.

“Every achievement in Ekiti is due to the support of President Tinubu, please, as you are praying for me, pray more for the President because when he came here for campaign, he made some promises. He has fulfilled all the promises he made, even the one I thought may be impossible before election, that Itawure – Aramoko- Ado road, I am glad to say that the contractor received provisional letter of award two weeks ago to commence work pending the ratification by Federal Executive Council. The contractor has promised to move to site immediately after the Ramadan to commence work.” He said.

Presenting the Iftar lecture, the Imam of Ansar-Ud-Deen, Ado Ekiti, Sheikh Abdullahi Abdulmutali, called on Muslims to live their lives in the fear of God by doing what is right all the time, stressing that that is the only way they could receive heavenly reward.

The President-General, League of Imams and Alfas for South West, Edo and Delta states, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello, who prayed for the State, the Governor and President Tinubu, hailed the two leaders for creating atmosphere of peace and shared prosperity.

Also present at the programme were former Senator Babafemi Ojudu, Muslims members of the state House of Assembly and Executive Council, representatives of Muslim community from the sixteen local government areas among others.

2026 IWD: Stakeholders Highlight Women’s Role in Development, Rally Support for Oyebanji

2026 IWD: Stakeholders Highlight Women’s Role in Development, Rally Support for Oyebanji 

Stakeholders in Ekiti State have called for increased support for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji ahead of the June governorship election, as the Wife of the Governor, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, reaffirmed her commitment to women's empowerment at the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration.

The collaborative event between the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development and the Office of the First Lady was held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti. It brought together women leaders, civil society organisations, government officials, and development partners to highlight the importance of gender equality and inclusive development.

Speaking at the programme, Dr Oyebanji emphasised that empowering women remains central to sustainable growth, noting that this year’s campaign slogan, “Give to Gain,” underscores the benefits of investing in women.

She commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for declaring 2026 as the Year of Families and Social Development, describing it as a step towards prioritising women, children, and vulnerable groups.

The First Lady also highlighted ongoing initiatives by the state government under Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, including partnerships with Development Agencies on programmes such as the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) and the Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up.

She added that her Office, through platforms like the Widows, Aged and Orphans Hope Support Foundation, would continue to support women, children, and vulnerable groups across the state.

Dr Oyebanji further appealed to women to sustain their support for the current administration, especially as the State prepares for the governorship election.

Also speaking, the Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye, commended the First Lady for driving positive change among women and urged more support for Governor Oyebanji’s second-term bid.

Similarly, former Senate Minority Leader, Senator Biodun Olujimi, stressed the critical role of women in society and called for strategic voter mobilisation to ensure continuity in governance.

The State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Dayo Apata (SAN), expressed appreciation for the efforts of the First Lady and the Deputy Governor in advancing women-focused initiatives, pledging his Ministry's continued support.

In her welcome remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, said the Oyebanji administration had prioritised women’s welfare through empowerment programmes, social protection, and various efforts to combat gender-based violence.

She noted that beneficiaries across the State received tools, financial support, and access to education through various interventions, while survivors of gender-based violence are being provided with medical, legal, and psychosocial support.

Also lending her voice, the Special Adviser on Gender Empowerment and Mobilisation, Chief (Mrs) Kemisola Olaleye, commended the First Lady for her dedication to women’s welfare and called on female political stakeholders to mobilise grassroots support for the Governor.

The keynote speaker at the event, Professor Kemi Ogundana from the Ekiti State University (EKSU), described the “Give to Gain” slogan as a call for collective action, stressing that investing in women leads to economic growth, improved health outcomes, and stronger communities.

She urged individuals, organisations, and policymakers to intensify efforts in mentorship, funding, and advocacy to advance gender equality.

Ijidale Halts Assembly Campaign, Urges Supporters to Focus Solely on Gov. Oyebanji’s Reelection

Hon. Lekan Ijidale, the Director General of the Bureau of Local Content, has issued a definitive call to action for his supporters, urging them to immediately cease all campaign activities related to his potential bid for the Gbonyin/Ayekire House of Assembly seat. This appeal, directed at both online and offline Supporters, comes as a strategic move to align with current legal frameworks and the broader political priorities of the state.

Ijidale emphasized two primary reasons for this directive. First, he pointed out that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has not yet lifted the ban on campaigning for House of Assembly elections, making any current promotional activities legally premature. Second, and more importantly, he stressed that the collective focus must remain squarely on the reelection of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. According to Ijidale, the success of the Governor’s administration is the paramount goal, and all political energy should be channeled toward ensuring his continued leadership.

In a firm stance to maintain order among his followers, supporters and Lovers, the Director General explicitly dissociated himself from anyone who continues to campaign in his name against these instructions. He highlighted that his current commitment is to the mandate given to him at the Bureau of Local Content. Ijidale reiterated that he will not allow any personal political ambitions to distract him from the confidence Mr. Governor has reposed in him or from his duty to deliver his absolute best in his current role. For our people of Gbonyin/Ayekire, the message is clear: the priority is Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji's second term bid.

POLITICAL STALWART HON. DE-LAW BRANDS CAMPAIGN VEHICLE FOR GOV. OYEBANJI’S RE-ELECTION BID; PREACHES PARTY LOYALTY AND CONTINUITY

POLITICAL STALWART HON. DE-LAW BRANDS CAMPAIGN VEHICLE FOR GOV. OYEBANJI’S RE-ELECTION BID; PREACHES PARTY LOYALTY AND CONTINUITY

 In a powerful demonstration of party loyalty and commitment to the "continuity" agenda in Ekiti State, a prominent grassroots Students' leader and former chairmanship aspirant, Hon. Comr. Lafiaji Lawrence Aanuoluwapo (popularly known as Hon. De-Law), has branded a campaign vehicle to support the re-election of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO). Hon. De-Law, a native of Ward 4 in Ayegbaju, Oye Local Government, unveiled the branded vehicle this week, citing the Governor’s "good governance and responsiveness to the needs of the masses" as the primary motivation for his support.

Despite recently vying for the Chairmanship of Oye Local Government and not securing the ticket, Hon. De-Law emphasized that his dedication to the All Progressives Congress (APC) remains unshaken. He stated that he is not discouraged by any temporary setback, noting that his belief in the party and the visionary leadership of Governor Oyebanji is far greater than any personal aspiration. He expressed a strong desire for continuity, citing the visible impact of the Governor’s work as the reason for his active involvement in the campaign.

Hon. De-Law is no stranger to public service and organizational management, bringing a wealth of experience to the campaign trail. He has previously served as the former national Speaker for the Education Students Association of Nigeria (ESAN), the former NANS (South West) Zone D Treasurer, and the former Stakeholders Chairman of Ekiti State University (EKSU). Beyond his political and student unionism background, he is also a successful entrepreneur as the CEO of DE-LAW MULTI RESOURCES COMPANY LIMITED.

The branding of this vehicle is seen as a significant morale booster for the BAO campaign within Oye Local Government. Hon. De-Law has pledged to do even more in the coming weeks, promising to mobilize voters across Ayegbaju and beyond to ensure a landslide victory for the incumbent Governor at the June 20, 2026 polls. By prioritizing the party’s collective success over personal political outcomes, "De-Law" continues to demonstrate selfless support for the leadership of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

Ekiti 2027: Hon. Ijidale Emerges APC Consensus Candidate for Ayekire/Gbonyin Constituency

Ahead of the forthcoming Ekiti State House of Assembly elections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken a decisive step toward unifying its front in the Ayekire/Gbonyin Constituency. In a unanimous decision by party leaders and executives, Hon. Olalekan Stephen Ijidale has been affirmed as the consensus candidate to fly the party’s flag.

The announcement, made on March 12, 2026, has sent waves of optimism through the constituency and marks a strategic move by the APC to ensure a formidable outing in the general elections.

Reacting to the affirmation, Hon. Ijidale expressed profound appreciation to the Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. Ijidale described the Governor’s role as pivotal, citing his "uncommon support and encouragement" as a driving force for the party’s internal cohesion.

"I remain humbled by this trust and opportunity to serve. This is not just a victory for me, but a testament to the unity of our great party under the visionary leadership of Governor Oyebanji," Ijidale stated.

The consensus was reached following extensive consultations with key stakeholders in the Ayekire/Gbonyin local government area. Hon. Ijidale specifically lauded the leadership of Hon. Femi Awe, the Commissioner for Rural and Community Development, for his unwavering support and leadership, and Hon. Tokunbo Akinyeye, the LGA party chairman, who presided over the process that prioritized the collective interest of the people.

The candidate also extended his gratitude to the party executives at the grassroots and state level, noting that their confidence in his capacity would be met with dedicated service and representation.

Looking ahead to the main polls, Hon. Ijidale sounded a note of confidence, declaring that the APC is poised for victory. He emphasized that his mission in the House of Assembly would be centered on progress, development, the wellbeing of the people, and continued growth, aligning the constituency’s needs with the broader "Shared Prosperity" agenda of the Oyebanji administration.

"By the grace of Almighty God, we shall emerge victorious in the general election," Ijidale added. "We will continue to work tirelessly for the development and wellbeing of our people. I thank you all for your support and your prayers."

Political analysts in Ekiti suggest that the emergence of a consensus candidate in Ayekire/Gbonyin significantly reduces internal friction and positions the APC as the party to beat in the upcoming legislative race. With the backing of both the state executive and local party heavyweights, Hon. Ijidale enters the race with a powerful mandate.

Oyebanji unveils 5,000 canvassers for Tinubu’s re-election

Oyebanji unveils 5,000 canvassers for Tinubu’s re-election 

…hinges administration’s success on President’s support

Ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship and January 20, 2027 presidential election, Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Friday inaugurated a group of 5,000 community canvassers as a significant step towards a massive mobilization of votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

Governor Oyebanji at the event, hinged the success of his administration to the massive support the he received from the president.

Addressing the crowd at the colourful event which took place at the Fajuyi pavilion, Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji emphasized the importance of the two elections at both the state and national levels noting that the June 20, 2026 election would stand as a litmus test of strength for the January 2027 presidential election.

Governor Oyebanji also stressed the need for the party to consolidate its dominance in the state as well as nationally saying he will continue to leverage on his government’s achievements in infrastructural development, agriculture and food security, welfare programmes among others to win over voters during the two elections.

He added that the community canvassers are being inaugurated in preparation for a strong campaign, focusing on grassroots mobilization, door-to-door engagement, and youth-driven strategies with each of the 5,000 canvassers targeting in at least 25 voters each.

The Governor, who commended the genuineness and the patience of the canvassers stressed the need for them to be connected with the electorate to enable them achieve their mandate of 25 voters per canvasser as he was confident that APC will corner no fewer than 500,000 votes in the governorship election and at least 700,000 votes for president Tinubu in 2027.

While also affirming that elections have gone scientific, the Governor posited that the person to person communication would allow the canvassers identify the voters before election and be able to ensure that they all come out physically during the election.

“You are not APC members, you are volunteers, people that were brought together by conviction and by the need to continue with the government that mean well, you have put yourself together, nobody has contributed money towards this, you have put resources together to put this in place and on behalf of my party and the national leader, the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and we are grateful to him.

“I listen to the DG’s speech and she said something that touched my heart, when I was being sworn in as governor of Ekiti state three and a half years ago, I made a promise that I will sit with you, I will listen to you and I will be accessible and God has helped me to keep to those promises. One thing that is clear to me, and I need to tell all of us in political business, is that democracy has an expiry date, every democracy will expire every four years, and there will be need for a renewal of that mandate. If you are conscious that your own term will expire one day and you’ll need to go back to the people, you will listen to them, you will see them, and you will be accessible to them. And today, what we are reaping is the benefits and the gains of the accessibility.

“I listened to all our speakers when they said we have performed and I said yes we have performed, but as a government in Ekiti state, there are two people that we need to give glory to, God almighty for making this possible and president Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support for our government in Ekiti state, everything you have seen in the state as achievements wouldn't have been possible without the support, the guidance and the advice of the President. He is a father to all the governors in this country and that is why those governors mostly are now falling in and come into APC because we have a leader that's intentional. For the first time in the history of this country, we have a president that wanted to be president and became president. So, I can assure you that we continue to fire to deliver on our promises to Ekiti people.

“And like one of the speakers said, if you have a President that has done well today, the only way we can say thank you to him is to come out on June 20th to test the microphone at the governorship election with 500,000 votes, that is the minimum we are expecting. So, President, will now know that when it comes to January next year, we will go out and do 700,000 votes. 

“Winning the elections is not the problem, the margins and the numbers we are able to make out for the presidential election, we don't want to leave anybody behind”, He stated.

Earlier, the convener of the event and the Director-General of the Bureau of Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso-Omotoso said the gathering was not just about politics of election but in support of a trusted leadership that has positively affected and touched lives of many and need to reciprocate that good gesture with initiative capable of returning the governor and president to power.

Mrs Omotoso, who disclosed that the canvassers were drawn from communities, groups, and grassroots structures that have made up their minds by conviction added that the initiative has its roots in genuine grassroots support with some generous hearts donating to make this event possible to achieve collective community progress.

According to her, “What we celebrate today in Ekiti is not merely governance, we celebrate a rare kind of leadership that you exude and exemplify. You do not only run an inclusive government; you run a humanitarian government, a government that has saved many from untimely death through timely intervention, a government that has revived forgotten destinies, a government that has restored hope where despair once lived.

In their separate goodwill messages, representatives of private sector development organization, Olabanji Ojo; artisans, Sunday Ogunyebi, Christian Community, CAN chairman, Rev. Dr Aribasoye; Muslim Community, Sheik Jamiu Kewulere; Youth, Ajibola and people with disabilities, Agboola Foluso, non-indigenous ethnic group, Alhaji Sheu Sampam commended the governor for his altruistic postures and promised to come out in their numbers to massively vote for him and the president by intensifying voter outreach, engage stakeholders as well as mobilise support at the community and faith levels.

Also at the event were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, members of the state House of Assembly, Executive council

Oyebanji unveils 5,000 canvassers for Tinubu’s re-election

Oyebanji unveils 5,000 canvassers for Tinubu’s re-election 

…hinges administration’s success on President’s support

Ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship and January 20, 2027 presidential election, Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Friday inaugurated a group of 5,000 community canvassers as a significant step towards a massive mobilization of votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

Governor Oyebanji at the event, hinged the success of his administration to the massive support the he received from the president.

Addressing the crowd at the colourful event which took place at the Fajuyi pavilion, Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji emphasized the importance of the two elections at both the state and national levels noting that the June 20, 2026 election would stand as a litmus test of strength for the January 2027 presidential election.

Governor Oyebanji also stressed the need for the party to consolidate its dominance in the state as well as nationally saying he will continue to leverage on his government’s achievements in infrastructural development, agriculture and food security, welfare programmes among others to win over voters during the two elections.

He added that the community canvassers are being inaugurated in preparation for a strong campaign, focusing on grassroots mobilization, door-to-door engagement, and youth-driven strategies with each of the 5,000 canvassers targeting in at least 25 voters each.

The Governor, who commended the genuineness and the patience of the canvassers stressed the need for them to be connected with the electorate to enable them achieve their mandate of 25 voters per canvasser as he was confident that APC will corner no fewer than 500,000 votes in the governorship election and at least 700,000 votes for president Tinubu in 2027.

While also affirming that elections have gone scientific, the Governor posited that the person to person communication would allow the canvassers identify the voters before election and be able to ensure that they all come out physically during the election.

“You are not APC members, you are volunteers, people that were brought together by conviction and by the need to continue with the government that mean well, you have put yourself together, nobody has contributed money towards this, you have put resources together to put this in place and on behalf of my party and the national leader, the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and we are grateful to him.

“I listen to the DG’s speech and she said something that touched my heart, when I was being sworn in as governor of Ekiti state three and a half years ago, I made a promise that I will sit with you, I will listen to you and I will be accessible and God has helped me to keep to those promises. One thing that is clear to me, and I need to tell all of us in political business, is that democracy has an expiry date, every democracy will expire every four years, and there will be need for a renewal of that mandate. If you are conscious that your own term will expire one day and you’ll need to go back to the people, you will listen to them, you will see them, and you will be accessible to them. And today, what we are reaping is the benefits and the gains of the accessibility.

“I listened to all our speakers when they said we have performed and I said yes we have performed, but as a government in Ekiti state, there are two people that we need to give glory to, God almighty for making this possible and president Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support for our government in Ekiti state, everything you have seen in the state as achievements wouldn't have been possible without the support, the guidance and the advice of the President. He is a father to all the governors in this country and that is why those governors mostly are now falling in and come into APC because we have a leader that's intentional. For the first time in the history of this country, we have a president that wanted to be president and became president. So, I can assure you that we continue to fire to deliver on our promises to Ekiti people.

“And like one of the speakers said, if you have a President that has done well today, the only way we can say thank you to him is to come out on June 20th to test the microphone at the governorship election with 500,000 votes, that is the minimum we are expecting. So, President, will now know that when it comes to January next year, we will go out and do 700,000 votes. 

“Winning the elections is not the problem, the margins and the numbers we are able to make out for the presidential election, we don't want to leave anybody behind”, He stated.

Earlier, the convener of the event and the Director-General of the Bureau of Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso-Omotoso said the gathering was not just about politics of election but in support of a trusted leadership that has positively affected and touched lives of many and need to reciprocate that good gesture with initiative capable of returning the governor and president to power.

Mrs Omotoso, who disclosed that the canvassers were drawn from communities, groups, and grassroots structures that have made up their minds by conviction added that the initiative has its roots in genuine grassroots support with some generous hearts donating to make this event possible to achieve collective community progress.

According to her, “What we celebrate today in Ekiti is not merely governance, we celebrate a rare kind of leadership that you exude and exemplify. You do not only run an inclusive government; you run a humanitarian government, a government that has saved many from untimely death through timely intervention, a government that has revived forgotten destinies, a government that has restored hope where despair once lived.

In their separate goodwill messages, representatives of private sector development organization, Olabanji Ojo; artisans, Sunday Ogunyebi, Christian Community, CAN chairman, Rev. Dr Aribasoye; Muslim Community, Sheik Jamiu Kewulere; Youth, Ajibola and people with disabilities, Agboola Foluso, non-indigenous ethnic group, Alhaji Sheu Sampam commended the governor for his altruistic postures and promised to come out in their numbers to massively vote for him and the president by intensifying voter outreach, engage stakeholders as well as mobilise support at the community and faith levels.

Also at the event were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker, Ekiti state House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, members of the state House of Assembly, Executive council

Fayemi Salutes Awolowo’s Enduring Legacy on Posthumous Birthday

*Press Statement*

*Fayemi Salutes Awolowo’s Enduring Legacy on Posthumous Birthday*

Dr Kayode Fayemi, the immediate-past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), has paid glowing tribute to the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, on the occasion of his posthumous birthday, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most visionary leaders whose ideas continue to shape the country’s development even today.

In a statement issued on Friday by the Fayemi Media Office, Fayemi said Awolowo’s life was an example of principled leadership and commitment to the welfare and progress of the Nigerian people.

The former governor noted that Awolowo’s contributions to governance, particularly his pioneering social policies as Premier of the old Western Region, remain among the most enduring legacies in Nigeria’s political history.

According to him, the landmark introduction of free primary education by the Awolowo-led administration transformed the social and economic landscape of the region and laid the foundation for the emergence of generations of professionals, scholars and leaders who have continued to contribute to national development.

Fayemi said Awolowo’s visionary leadership demonstrated the power of progressive ideas and people-centred policies in building a prosperous and progressive society.

“On this posthumous birthday anniversary, we celebrate the life and legacy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a statesman whose ideas, courage and foresight helped shape modern Nigeria,” Fayemi said.

“He understood early that the true wealth of any society lies in the education and empowerment of its people. His introduction of free primary education was not merely a policy initiative; it was transformative and expanded opportunity for millions of people.”

The former governor also described Awolowo as a moral compass in Nigerian politics, noting that his commitment to integrity, discipline and ideological clarity remains a model for current and future leaders.

Fayemi urged Nigerians, particularly those in leadership positions, to draw inspiration from Awolowo’s life of service, sacrifice and dedication to the common good.

“As we remember him today, we must recommit ourselves to the values he represented, such as good governance, social justice, and the pursuit of a fair and inclusive society,” he added.

He prayed that Awolowo’s legacy would continue to inspire Nigerians to work towards building a nation anchored on justice, equity and shared prosperity.

Signed 

Mallam Ahmad Sajoh

Head, Fayemi Media Office, Abuja

Friday, March 6, 2026

Fayemi Salutes Obasanjo at 89, Hails His Service to Nigeria

*Press Statement*

 

*Fayemi Salutes Obasanjo at 89, Hails His Service to Nigeria*

Dr Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ekiti State and the immediate-past Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), has congratulated former President Olusegun Obasanjo on his 89th birthday, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most consequential statesmen whose service to the nation will never be forgotten.

In a statement on Thursday, Fayemi paid tribute to Obasanjo’s decades of dedication to Nigeria’s unity and advancement of democracy in Africa.

According to the former Ekiti governor, Obasanjo’s leadership at critical moments in Nigeria’s history, including his stewardship of the country as Head of State and later as a democratically elected President, helped shape the nation’s political and institutional trajectory.

“Chief Obasanjo remains a towering figure in Nigeria’s public life and a statesman whose commitment to the unity, stability and progress of our country has been steadfast over the years”, Fayemi stated.

He noted that Obasanjo’s contributions extend beyond Nigeria, citing his consistent advocacy for peace, democratic values, and development across the African continent.

Fayemi said the former President’s courage, forthrightness and willingness to speak truth to power have continued to enrich national discourse and strengthen democratic culture in Nigeria.

“As he marks his 89th birthday, I join family members, friends, associates and countless admirers across Nigeria and the world in celebrating a life devoted to service. 

‘’We remain grateful for his sacrifices and his continuing role as a mentor to many within and outside public life,” he added.

Fayemi prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the elder statesman, wishing him many more years in good health, wisdom and strength in service to Nigeria and humanity.

Signed

Mallam Ahmad Sajoh

Head, Fayemi Media Office, Abuja

February 5, 2026

BAO 2026: Governor’s Political Adviser Inaugurates Community Outreach Team for Second Term Bid

The campaign for the re-election of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) gained significant momentum today, Thursday, March 5, 2026, with the official inauguration of the Community Outreach Team for BAO (2026). The inauguration ceremony took place during a strategic meeting between the team, led by Erelu Tosin Aluko Ajisafe, and the Special Adviser on Political Matters to the Governor, Chief Jide Awe.

In her opening address, Erelu Tosin Aluko Ajisafe expressed deep gratitude to Governor Oyebanji for his unwavering support of the outreach team’s initiatives during previous election cycles. She specifically lauded Chief Jide Awe, describing his guidance as "fatherly and exceptional" throughout their past field operations. While presenting the newly structured 2026 campaign team, Erelu Ajisafe reaffirmed the group's dedication to grassroots mobilization and their readiness to hit the ground running.

Responding to the delegation, Chief Jide Awe commended the team’s track record, noting that their previous efforts were instrumental to the administration's success. However, he challenged the members to elevate their performance for the upcoming contest, stating that the task ahead requires even stronger commitment and selflessness to ensure a landslide victory for Governor Oyebanji’s second-term bid.

Chief Awe officially inaugurated the team, reiterating the party’s unflinching support to ensure effective and efficient service delivery.

 The event marks a formal mandate for the Community Outreach Team to bridge the gap between the administration and local communities, ensuring a seamless transition into the 2026 election cycle.

Oyebanji Reaffirms Commitment to Ekiti Women’s Empowerment, Says Effective Implementation of NFWP-SU is Non-Negotiable

The Ekiti State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to women’s economic empowerment through the Nigeria for Women Programme Scale-Up (NFWP-SU), describing the initiative as a strategic platform for inclusive growth and sustainable development. Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is deeply passionate about implementing this program, viewing it as a significant step toward grassroots transformation. The administration is investing in the NFWP-SU because of its firm belief that when a woman is empowered, she is positioned to uplift her home, leading to the overall development of the community and the state at large.

The Chairman of the State Multi-Sectoral Coordinating Structure and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Oyeniyi Adebayo, gave this assurance at the opening session of a three-day team-bonding workshop organised to strengthen networking and collaboration among NFWP-SU officials. Adebayo reiterated Governor Oyebanji’s strong support for the project, noting that the administration remains committed to policies that advance women's economic independence. He emphasised that the effective implementation of the scale-up phase requires the right attitude, professionalism, and teamwork, urging all actors to remain focused on achieving a measurable impact on livelihoods. 

In her keynote address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Olapeju Babafemi, described the programme as a transformative intervention designed to empower grassroots and improve household livelihoods through the Women Affinity Groups (WAGs) and other platforms. She charged participants to uphold transparency, accountability, and integrity, ensuring that the resources invested by the state government reach the intended grassroots beneficiaries. This focus on integrity was echoed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs Sola Adeluyi, who highlighted the importance of institutional synergy and strict adherence to operational guidelines to ensure the initiative's long-term success and sustainability.

The Ekiti State Project Coordinator, Mrs Toyin Familoni, explained that the ongoing training aims to enhance unity and coordinated service delivery. The event also featured a delegation from Ogun State, led by their Project Coordinator, Mrs Bolanle Fadairo, who shared best practices to promote inter-state learning. By fostering this environment of collaboration and rigorous field coordination, the Ekiti State Government is ensuring that Governor Oyebanji’s vision for a prosperous "Land of Honour" begins at the household level, where empowered women serve as the primary drivers of socio-economic progress.

SCANDAL ROCKS MINISTRY OF YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AS "CONSULTANT" BIMBO OLAJUMOKE ADENIYI ACCUSED OF ₦25 MILLION CONTRACT FRAUD

The Ministry of Youth Development has been drawn into a brewing scandal following a formal legal complaint against a woman identified as Bimbo Olajumoke Olawumi Adeniyi, also known as Mrs. Abimbola. A petition filed by Whitehat Law Practice on behalf of Alhaji Bashir Adamu Bakori reveals a pattern of alleged deception and high-stakes financial exploitation. According to the legal documents, Adeniyi allegedly posed as a consultant and staff member of the Ministry, claiming she had the authority to facilitate the award of multi-million naira government contracts for youth development centers across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

The report suggests that Adeniyi used the 2025 Federal Government budget as a lure, convincing her victim that she could secure lucrative slots for contractors. Under this guise, she is accused of soliciting and receiving a staggering ₦25,000,000 from Alhaji Bakori. Since the payment was made, however, Adeniyi has reportedly failed to provide any evidence of project progress and has become elusive, leading to accusations that the entire operation was a calculated fraud.

The legal firm has now petitioned the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Development to officially verify if Bimbo Olajumoke Olawumi Adeniyi is indeed an employee or an accredited consultant. They are also seeking clarification on whether she has any legal mandate to solicit funds on behalf of the government. As the authorities look into these claims, the case serves as a massive red flag regarding the activities of individuals who use high-level government connections to defraud unsuspecting investors of tens of millions of naira. With the victim prepared to provide payment evidence and push for an internal investigation, Adeniyi’s reputation and legal standing are now under intense fire.

‎EKSU Alumnus, Ajayi Olwatosin Empowers 220 Widows with Cash Support in Gboyin-Ayekire

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‎An alumnus of Ekiti State University, Mr Ajayi Sunday Olwatosin, (ASO) has empowered widows in Gboyin-Ayekire Local Government Area of Ekiti State with cash support to boost their livelihoods.

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‎At a brief ceremony held in the council area, Mr Oluwatosin presented ₦20,000 to twenty widows from each of the 11 wards in Gboyin-Ayekire Local Government Area, bringing the total number of beneficiaries to 220. 

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‎Speaking during the presentation, the benefactor said the gesture was borne out of his desire to make life easier for struggling members of the community.

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‎He explained that the initiative was also aimed at encouraging well-meaning individuals to extend a helping hand to the less privileged.

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‎Mr Oluwatosin added that the support was designed to complement the efforts of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, in providing relief for the aged and widows across the state. 

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‎He expressed optimism that the funds would help the beneficiaries expand their small businesses and become more financially stable.

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‎In his remarks, the Director-General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Local Content, Mr Olalekan Ijidale, used the event to commend Governor Oyebanji for what he described as the transformative impact of his administration in Gboyin-Ayekire. 

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‎He noted that Mr Oluwatosin’s empowerment programme aligns with the governor’s grassroots-focused vision of supporting the aged and vulnerable.

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‎Also speaking, the APC Chairman in Gboyin-Ayekire Local Government, Pastor Olatokunbo Adeyeye, lauded Mr Oluwatosin for the intervention, describing it as a demonstration of compassion and commitment to community development. 

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‎He said the initiative would inspire others to emulate similar acts of generosity.

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‎Some of the beneficiaries, including Mrs Victoria Akinola and Mrs Oluwalusi Ajayi, expressed appreciation for the support and prayed for the continued success of Mr Olwatosin, saying the money would be used to expand their businesses. 

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‎The empowerment programme attracted party leaders, community stakeholders and residents of the area.