VOX POPULI

A chieftain of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State, Lere Olayinka, has said that the State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, needs all the concentration he desired to remain on the path of good governance that he has started. Olayinka, who was the PDP House of Representatives candidate for Ekiti Central Federal Constituency 2 in the last general elections, said gone were the days of politics of bitterness that held Ekiti State down for a long period, adding that "As for me, Governor Oyebanji is doing well and I won't be blinded by politics not to acknowledge that." Speaking during a meeting with some PDP leaders in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday, he said those who abandoned the party during the last year governorship election and this year's general elections cannot be the ones to take the front stage and act as spokespersons of the party. The former PDP Reps candidate said there was no pretending as to the fact that Governor Oyebanji has brought his per

By John Kayode AYODELE The Leadership of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Ekiti State Chapter, visited the office of the Senior Special Assistant (Community Communications): Mrs. Mary Oso-Omotoso to appreciate the Governor's concern towards the Communities development and other projects in the State. In his address, the State Chairman of the Youth Council in Ekiti State: Ambassador James Oluwasegun Bankole appreciated Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and other members of his cabinet for their developmental projects in the State. He lauded the Governor for the recruitment of 1,300 Primary School Teachers, distribution of Cars and other developmental projects. Amb. James Bankole spoke about the Quiz Competition that was organized among the Secondary Schools in Ekiti State and assured the Governor's Senior Special Assistant (Community Communications) that the Youth Council under his watch shall continue to partner with the State Government to achieve successes in

By Faith Kayode OGUNLADE The Leadership of National Youth Council of Nigeria NYCN Ekiti State Chapter through the Council's Directorate for Education and Training  on Monday launched the maiden edition of their proposed Annual Quiz Competition for the Secondary Schools in Ekiti State. The event, which was dedicated to Governor Biodun Abayomi OYEBANJI for his love for Ekiti Youths had in attendance Public Secondary Schools, Mission Schools and Private Secondary Schools. In his address, the State Chairman of the Youth Council in Ekiti State: Amb. James Oluwasegun Bankole appreciated Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and the members of his cabinet for the love they have for Ekiti Youths.  He reiterated that the Youth Council in Ekiti shall continue partnering with the State Government to achieve the proposed plans of the State Government for Ekiti Youths. He emphasized the importance of improving social engagements for students, keeping them updated with the hap

By Abiodun OLOFE The founder of TZAR Foundation Mr Abdurasaq Temitayo Zubair  has felicitated with all Muslims both home and in diaspora on the occasion of this year's Sallah celebration urging them to use the period to pray for peace and prosperity of the country.  This was contained in a release signed by the foundation's Director of Media and Publicity, Mr Abiodun Olofe and made available to newsmen in Ado Ekiti. Mr Zubair called on Muslims to continue to imbibe the spirit of sacrifice, love, kindness and peace as exemplified by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him).  The Ado-Ekiti born Marketing Communication expert, further implored Nigerians to use the opportunity of the period to seek God's face for unity, peace, prosperity and stability of the country. He appealed to Federal and State Governments to make the welfare of the citizens a topmost priority noting that all efforts must be towards giving Nigerians the much needed dividend of Democracy. T

PRESS RELEASE The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ekiti State Chapter, extends its warmest congratulations to the commissioners - designate unveiled by the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye.  We also take this opportunity to express our heartfelt appreciation to Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for selecting such highly qualified individuals to run the affairs of our dear state. This exceptional lineup of nominees is a testament to Governor Oyebanji's exceptional leadership prowess and commitment to the development of Ekiti State. The NYCN Ekiti State Chapter commends Governor Oyebanji for his careful consideration in selecting individuals with a proven track record of competence, integrity, and dedication to public service.  We believe that the nominees possess the necessary skills and expertise to make significant contributions towards the growth and progress of Ekiti State. Their diverse backgrounds and wealth of experi

By John-Ralph Ayodele           Oba Adekunle Adeayo ADEAGBO NYCN delegates with the Monarch His Royal Majesty: Oba Adekunle Adeayo ADEAGBO , the Ilufemiloye I, Okinbaloye II and Adifagbade II, the Oore of Otun-Ekiti gave his Royal blessings to the newly elected Officers of the National Youth Council of Nigeria Ekiti State Chapter during  a courtesy visit to him on Wednesday 21st September, 2022. The Youth delegates led by the outgoing Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria Ekiti State Chapter: Comrade Eyitayo FABUNMI appreciated the Royal Father for the blessings he gave before the election which prompted the thank you visit. The Youth delegates appreciated Governor John Kayode FAYEMI led Administration for the wonders the Council got during his Second Term in Office. The likes of Senator Michael Opeyemi BAMIDELE was also appreciated by the leadership of the Council. The Youths believe much in the ability and understanding of the Governor elect: Biodun Abayomi OYEBANJI that

By John Kayode Ayodele Catholic Diocese of Ekiti has drawn the attention of the general public to some people moving round the State, claiming to be Priests of the Roman Catholic Church  In a press release from the office of the Director of Social Communications, Catholic Diocese of Ekiti, Rev. Fr. Anthony Oluwole IJASAN explained some of the ways to identify these fake Priests. "These people go about deceiving people with fake prophesies and visions claiming to be Priests of Catholic Family Prayer Altar Nigeria and Catholic Family Prayer Alter WhatsApp Ministry" They are fake, and they do not belong to One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church. Fr. Ijasan added. The Director of Social Communications however encouraged the general Public to avoid them and stay away from their so called WhatsApp Ministry because they are fake Prophets and not in anyway related to the Catholic Diocese of Ekiti.

We have followed with consternation the viral story of the purported 114% increase in the salary of the President, Vice President, elected Federal and State political office holders and judicial officers.  We state without any equivocation that President Bola Tinubu has not approved any salary increase, and no such proposal has been brought before him for consideration.  While we recognise that it is within the constitutional remit of Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission to propose and fix salaries and allowances of political office holders and Judicial Officers, such can not come to effect until it has equally been considered and approved by the President.  It is important to note that RMAFC, through its Public Relations Manager, has responded to this fake story being circulated and has already set the record straight.  However, that this unfounded story gained prominence on social media and in a section of mainstream media, again, brings to the fore the

COMBO Photo of Governor Biodun Abayomi OYEBANJI and Amb. James Oluwasegun BANKOLE Your Excellency, On behalf of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Ekiti State Chapter, we extend our warmest congratulations to you on receiving the prestigious Most Labour Friendly Governor Award from the Nigerian Union of Allied Health Professionals (NUAHP). This recognition is a testament to your unwavering commitment to the welfare and betterment of workers in Ekiti State. Your exemplary industrial relations policy and the inclusion of union members in your cabinet showcase your dedication to fostering positive relationships and creating an enabling environment for workers to thrive. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed, and we applaud your exceptional leadership in prioritizing the welfare of health professionals and workers in general. We are delighted to see your passion for improving the lives of the Ekiti citizenry and your determination to ensure better healthcare facilities

COMBO Photo Dr. John Kayode Fayemi and Amb. James Oluwasegun BANKOLE Dear Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, On behalf of the National Youth Council of Nigeria Ekiti State Chapter, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on the momentous occasion of receiving an honorary doctorate from Lagos State University. This prestigious recognition is a testament to your exceptional contributions, outstanding leadership, and unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on society. Your dedication to public service and tireless efforts in various domains, including governance, education, and social development, have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals. Your visionary leadership and ability to inspire change have made you a true role model for aspiring leaders and an embodiment of excellence. By bestowing upon you this honorary doctorate, Lagos State University acknowledges not only your remarkable achievements but also your invaluable c

By John Kayode Ayodele The Leadership of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Ekiti State Chapter, on Tuesday visited the Ministry of Youths and Sports Development (Ekiti State), the office of the Senior Special Assistant (Special Duties) to the Governor of Ekiti State, and some other personalities in the State to brief them of their upcoming events. The delegation led by the State Chairman of the Council: Ambassador James Oluwasegun BANKOLE had in attendance: The General Secretary, Deputy Secretary, Treasurer, Director of Sports, Financial Secretary, Organizing Secretary (North), Internal Auditor, Director of Education and Training, and some other Officers. In his address, Ambassador James Oluwasegun Bankole appreciated Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and other members of his cabinet for their developmental projects in the State. He lauded the Governor for the recruitment of 1,300 Primary School Teachers, distribution of Cars and other developmental projects. Amb. James

By Funke OYERINDE   The Special Adviser to the Governor on infrastructure and Public Utilities, Prof Mobolaji Aluko has   called for  greater  synergy between the Ekiti State Fire Services Department and the  Federal Fire Services in promptly responding to fire outbreaks and other emergencies in the State. The Special Adviser  gave the charge   during a meeting with  the Directors of both fire services in Ado-Ekiti, and  urged the two government agencies to make greater collaboration  and effective service delivery their topmost priorities as part of   ultimate efforts to reduce cases of  casualties and fatalities as well as  damages caused by fire out breaks in the state.  He said that with greater   collaboration the two agencies can effectively perform their regulatory functions and respond to cases of  fire outbreak and emergencies in any part of the State. Aluko also stressed  that the state Government would take urgent steps towards the  repair of  all faulty fire eng

COMBO Photo of Hon. Barr. Olarewaju Kunle Ibrahim (SSA National Assembly Matters, House of Representatives) and Amb. James Oluwasegun Bankole (Chairman, NYCN Ekiti State Chapter) CONGRATULATIONS TO HON. BARR. OLAREWAJU KUNLE IBRAHIM ON YOUR APPOINTMENT AS SENIOR SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO PRESIDENT TINUBU ON NATIONAL ASSEMBLY MATTERS, HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES I am writing on behalf of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) Ekiti State to extend our heartfelt congratulations on your recent appointment as Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly matters. It is with great pleasure that we commend your dedication, expertise, and achievements in serving our nation. We are immensely proud of your accomplishments, particularly as an Ekiti-born lawyer and former Member of the House of Representatives. Your extensive experience and knowledge will undoubtedly make a significant impact in your new role, where you will be instrumental in fostering effective communication a

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,  has approved the immediate retirement of all Service Chiefs and the Inspector-General of  Police, Advisers, Comptroller-General of Customs from Service as well as their replacements with immediate effect.  The newly appointed Officers are:  Mallam Nuhu Ribadu:  National Security Adviser   Maj. Gen. C.G Musa:  Chief of Defence Staff Maj. T. A Lagbaja: Chief of Army Staff Rear Admirral E. A Ogalla: Chief of Naval Staff AVM H.B Abubakar: Chief of Air Staff DIG Kayode Egbetokun: Acting Inspector-General of Police Maj. Gen. EPA Undiandeye: Chief of Defense Intelligence Mr President has also approved the following appointments: Col. Adebisi Onasanya: Brigade of Guards Commander Lt. Col. Moshood Abiodun Yusuf: 7 Guards Battalion, Asokoro, Abuja Lt. Col. Auwalu Baba Inuwa: 177, Guards Battalion, Keffi, Nasarawa State Lt. Col. Mohammed J. Abdulkarim: 102 Guards Battalion, Suleja, Niger Lt. Col. Olumide A. Akingbesote: 176 Guards Battalion, Gwagwal

L-R: Combo photo of: Dr. Isiaka Yahaya (Director, Public Affairs Department), Mrs. Evelyn Arinola Olanipekun (Director, Census Department) and Dr. Inuwa Jalingo at the briefing I am pleased to welcome distinguished gentlemen of the press to this briefing to clear the air on the needless controversies being generated around the expenditure on the preparatory activities for the 2023 Census. However, my first task today is to express the profound appreciation of the Commission to the Nigerian media for the robust and professional manner they have consistently disseminated information and educated the general public on the next census. The positive and incisive reporting of the census preparatory activities so far has placed the 2023 Census at the centre of national discourse thereby mobilizing Nigerians for its successful conduct. In what ordinarily could be regarded as an open display of transparency aimed at assuring Nigerians and the international community that the journey

From the Office of the Chairman, National Youth Council of Nigeria, Ekiti State Chapter It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that we, the members of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ekiti State Chapter, offer our sincerest condolences on the passing of Chief George Akosile. We mourn the loss of an exceptional leader, a visionary, and a true champion of Ekiti State. Chief George Akosile's contributions and dedication to the development of Ekiti State have left an indelible mark on our community. His extensive career, including his service as the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance during Chief Adekunle Ajasin's administration and his role as the Chairman of the Alliance for Democracy in Ekiti State, showcased his unwavering commitment to public service and his unwavering loyalty to our great state. Throughout his life, Chief Akosile demonstrated remarkable leadership qualities and played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape o

By Seyi EBENEZER The Chairman of The National Youth Council of Nigeria Ekiti State Chapter: Comrade James Oluwasegun BANKOLE, on Thursday led the officers of the Youth Council to meet with the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly (EKHA), Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, to discuss matters of utmost importance concerning the youth of the state. The visit, which included a congratulatory gesture and fruitful discussions, highlighted the commitment of both parties towards the welfare and development of Ekiti State's vibrant youth population. The visit began with a warm congratulatory gesture extended to the Speaker on his well-deserved emergence and the inauguration of all members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly. The NYCN Ekiti State Chapter expressed their felicitations and wished the Speaker and his team a successful tenure. The meeting provided a platform for in-depth deliberations on crucial matters concerning the youth in the state. The NYCN Ekiti State Chapter

By Damilola OGUNDIPE L-R: Combo Photo of Dele Alake, Nuhu Ribadu and Wale Edin President Bola Tinubu on Thursday named eight persons as special advisers, said State House Director Information, Abiodun Oladunjoye. In a statement, Oladunjoye said the President appointed Dele Alake as his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communications and Strategy and Yau Darazo as Special Adviser on Political and Intergovernmental Affairs. Tinubu also appointed Nuhu Ribadu as his Special Adviser on Security and Wale Edun P Special Adviser on Monetary Policies. The President appointed Olu Verheijen as Special Adviser on Energy and Zachaeus Adedeji as Special Adviser on Revenue. Others are John Uwajumogu (Special Adviser, Industry, Trade and Investment), and Salma Anas (Special Adviser, Health). The appointments are with immediate effect, the statement concluded. The fresh appointments followed the Senate’s approval of Tinubu’s request for 20 Special Advisers on June 6, 2023. On June 2, 2023

By Damilola OGINDIPE The Nineth Speaker of the House of Representatives: Rt. Honestly. Femi Gbajabiamila has resigned his membership as a member of the 10th House of Representatives. Gbajabiamila's resignation came as a result of his new appointment as the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed TINUBU GCFR. Earlier before his resignation, the immediate past Speaker, had the privilege to move the first motion in the new House which was on the need to prepare to avert the negative effects of the forecast of heavy flooding in some parts of the country. The resolution was however passed accordingly. The 10th Speaker of the House: Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas read Gbajabiamila's resignation letter and declared his seat vacant. Hon. Gbajabiamila reaffirmed his readiness to work with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR in delivering his Renewed Hope agenda for Nigeria.

By Oluwafunmilayo ADEKUNLE Justice Inyang Ekwo of the Federal High Court, Abuja on Thursday, June 15, 2023, again suspended the planned arraignment of a former Minister of Aviation, Stella Oduah and others on alleged N7.9 billion fraud charges, citing security reasons. According to the judge, the court will not continue with the trial until it is certain and satisfied that the security and safety of the persons involved in the trial is assured. At the last adjourned date, Justice Ekwo had complained about receiving private messages regarding the case from persons whose identities he did not disclose, while warning them to desist from intruding on his privacy. At today’s proceeding Justice Ekwo voiced his anger that the prosecution failed to fish out the culprits. “I want you to find out who that character is, arrest him and bring him to court on the next date. I am not going to go on with this trial until I am certain and satisfied that the security and safety o

By Oluwafunmilayo ADEKUNLE The Management and Staff of Vox Populi News has congratutulated her Director (Administration) Comrade Agnes Damilola OGUNDIPE on her birthday celebrations today. Speaking on behalf of the Management, the editor-in-Chief: Comrade John-Ralph Kayode AYODELE lauded Comrade Damilola for her humanitarian services, doggedness, Openness to criticism, Transparency and Accountability. The Management however fixed the celebrations to a later date when the celebrant would be around.

By Agnes Damilola OGUNDIPE President Bola Tinubu has approved the indefinite suspension from office of the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), AbdulRasheed Bawa, to allow for proper investigation into his conduct while in office. According to a statement by the Director of Information at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Willie Bassey, the action follows “weighty” allegations of abuse of office levelled against him. “Mr Bawa has been directed to immediately handover the affairs of his office to the Director, Operations in the Commission, who will oversee the affairs of the Office of the Chairman of the Commission pending the conclusion of the investigation,” the statement said.

By Funke OYERINDE The Sustainable  Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme in Ekiti State has inaugurated Grievance Redress  Committees (GRC) in 51 Communities spread across nine (9)  Local Government Areas of the State. The inauguration which was conducted in communities with SURWASH intervention projects in  Ado,Ijero, Oye,Ikole, Ekiti West, Aiyekire, Ilejemeje,Moba and Irepodun Ifelodun Local Government Areas have  a  maximum number of eight members each,  and saddled with the responsibility of receiving complaints and handling  any misunderstanding  that may likely come up within the Communities during implementation of the projects. The SURWASH Programme is designed to strengthen relevant institutions, sectors and policies to ultimately increase and improve access to Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene in the state. It is to be  noted that the  GRCs  being constituted  are one of the  key aspects to be considered under Environmental an

By Omolara BANJI "I thank the Nigerian Association of Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mining and Agriculture (NACCIMA) for the honour bestowed not only to me but also to the people and government of Ekiti State for choosing a son of the soil as her 22nd president". This was made known by His Excellency Mr Biodun Oyebanji, at the 63rd Annual General Conference and the Investiture of Barr. Kelvin Dele Oye Esq. as the 22nd President of NACCIMA, which held at the Alfa Belgore Hall of the Afe Babalola University (ABUAD), Ado-Ekiti with the theme "Promoting public-private partnership for National Development". He pledged the commitment of the government of Ekiti State to partner NACCIMA in steering the ship of the association to the shore of fortune. Oyebanji stated that Public-private partnership serves as a bridge that connects the government and private sector towards a common goal of national development.  He spoke extensively on the benefits of

By Yinka BABALOGBON In its concerted efforts to combat HIV/AIDS in the state, the Ekiti State Government in Collaboration with National Agency For the Control of AIDS (NACA) Abuja, were in the state to conduct checklist monitoring on prevention of HIV, mentoring and supportive supervisory visits to the line Ministries and other stakeholders. Receiving the visiting team, the General Manager of EKSACA,  Dr.Charles Doherty, who was represented by Mr Kunle Akinfemisoye said the NACA visit to the state was timely,  noting that the importance of the supervisory checklist visit was to know the effectiveness of the stakeholders and to eliminate the spread of the virus in the society. Doherty stressed that the assignment was a national one, put in place  basically to carry out national response on HIV Prevention. Earlier at the debriefing meeting, the Assistant Chief Confidential Secretary who led the NACA team to the state, Mrs Roseline Akinola said the objective of the

By Sade OGUNRINMADE Ekiti State Governor, His Excellency, Biodun Oyebanji has reiterated his commitment to Tourism development in the state. Governor Oyebanji, made this known while hosting the representatives of the National Association of Tourr Operators ( NATOP) in his office in Ado Ekiti. The NATOP delegates, led by the NATOP National President, Mrs Ime Udoh, payed a courtesy visit to the Governor in preparation towards their upcoming year 2023 Annual General Meeting (AGM). which will be hosted by Ekiti State Government on July. Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who emphasized on Tourism as one of the six pillars of his administration, said that Ekiti has a lot of tour sites that can boost the economy of the state.  He therefore assured the delegation that strong collaboration of Ekiti State Government and NATOP is guaranteed as the state is ever ready to improve it's economy. Governor Oyebanji however disclosed that Bureau of Tourism will be created separately