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Tag: Fayemi

  • Fayemi at 60: He’s a committed comrade in fight for democracy, says Tinubu

    Fayemi at 60: He’s a committed comrade in fight for democracy, says Tinubu

    • Celebrator, Oyebanji exchange appreciation at thanksgiving service

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said former Ekiti State governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, is “an able lieutenant, an invaluable ally, and a committed patriot” in the struggle to protect democracy in the country.

    In a heartfelt birthday wish he personally signed on yesterday’s celebration of the former governor’s 60th birthday, President Tinubu reflected on his association with Dr. Fayemi, which he said began during the pro-democracy struggles in the 1990s.

    The President lauded the former governor’s brilliance, commitment, and strategic skills, particularly in the fight against military dictatorship.

    “During the challenging General Sani Abacha era, civil rights and pro-democracy activists, especially those in exile, had to rely on their ingenuity to survive. Kayode’s brilliance, commitment, and strategic skills were invaluable to our cause,” President Tinubu said.

    The President acknowledged Fayemi’s instrumental role in establishing Radio Kudirat, a pro-democracy radio station which amplified the resistance against the Sani Abacha regime and honoured the slain activist, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola.

    Following the deaths of Abacha and Bashorun Moshood Abiola in 1998, President Tinubu recalled that Dr. Fayemi transitioned from activism to academia and governance. Upon returning to Nigeria in 1999, he founded the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) to promote democratic values and peace-building across Africa.

    The President noted that Fayemi forayed into politics in 2006, when he contested for the Ekiti governorship under the defunct Action Congress (AC).

    Though initially denied victory in the 2007 elections, Fayemi persevered through a protracted legal battle that lasted over three years before he was declared the rightful winner in 2010.

    President Tinubu also acknowledged that the former Ekiti governor’s impact extended beyond state politics. He credited Fayemi with playing a pivotal role in the historic 2013 merger of opposition parties, which led to the formation of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Fayemi also chaired the panel that conducted the APC presidential primaries in 2014, which produced then-candidate Muhammadu Buhari.

    “Our party’s victory in the 2015 presidential election, defeating an incumbent president and a ruling party that had vowed to rule Nigeria for 60 unbroken years, was a fitting reward for the hard work, teamwork, and capacity demonstrated by Fayemi, other campaign council members, and party leadership,” President Tinubu said.

    After serving as Minister of Mines and Steel Development in Buhari’s first term, Fayemi returned as Ekiti State governor in 2018.

    The President acknowledged the former governor’s contributions to governance, despite some economic challenges, stressing that Fayemi “made his mark in the governance of Ekiti State”.

    The President also lauded Fayemi’s sportsmanship during the APC presidential primaries ahead of the 2023 general election. A fellow aspirant to Asiwaju Tinubu during the primaries, Fayemi ultimately stepped down on the convention night, an action the President described as a demonstration of “remarkable humility and comradeship”.

    Beyond politics, President Tinubu also lauded Fayemi’s contributions as an academic, author, administrator, and development expert.

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    “As he turns 60, I wish him continued health and fulfillment in the years ahead,” the President added.

    Dr. Fayemi yesterday said he enjoys a cordial relationship with Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

    The former governor noted that their relationship is based on mutual love and respect as well as shared commitment to the development of the state.

    He expressed pride in Oyebanji who he said has made him proud by his exemplary leadership and demonstrated capacity in all-round development of the state.

    Fayemi spoke yesterday at a thanksgiving on his 60th birthday at St. Martins’ Catholic Church in Isan-Ekiti.

    The former governor hailed his successor for his inclusive leadership style, saying this has fostered stability, progress, and development across the state.

    He said: “I am a product of grace and I have so many reasons to be thankful to God at 60. I also want to thank our governor for making me proud. It could have been otherwise.

    “Things could have gone awry, but he is also a product of grace. That is why in spite of the travails that one might experience in the world of politics, we have a very cordial relationship based on mutual love and mutual respect.

    “So, all these things you read in social media are for your entertainment.

    “Many will wonder why Governor Segun Oni is here. When he was celebrating his birthday, I spent the entire day with him and (former) Governor Ayodele Fayose too would have been here without hesitation, if he was around.

    “That is Ekiti. The vision we have always had is a state that will not be separated by political divide. We might belong to different political parties, but there is one party that we collectively belong to, that is the Ekiti party, Ekiti Progressive Party, and our governor is carrying on with that.”

    Oyebanji described Fayemi’s 60th birthday as a celebration of life dedicated to service and excellence.

    The governor lauded his predecessor’s visionary leadership and unparalleled contribution to the state.

    “The only thing I am going to say is to thank you for your support and for handholding me.

    Thank you so much for all you have done for Ekiti people. Thank you so much for all that you have done for your mentees all over the world. I thank Erelu Bisi Fayemi and Folajimi for sharing you with us.

    “We are proud of you; Ekiti people are immensely proud of your achievements. It has been 60 years of progressive impact,” he said.

  • Tinubu hails Fayemi as ‘Invaluable ally’ on 60th birthday

    Tinubu hails Fayemi as ‘Invaluable ally’ on 60th birthday

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, as “an able lieutenant, an invaluable ally, and a committed patriot,” in a heartfelt tribute marking his 60th birthday.

    In the tribute he personally authored on Sunday, President Tinubu reflected on his decades-long association with Dr. Fayemi, which began during the pro-democracy struggles of the 1990s. 

    He praised the former governor’s brilliance, commitment, and strategic skills, particularly in the fight against military dictatorship.

    “During the challenging General Sani Abacha era, civil rights and pro-democracy activists, especially those in exile, had to rely on their ingenuity to survive. Kayode’s brilliance, commitment, and strategic skills were invaluable to our cause,” Tinubu said.

    The President highlighted Fayemi’s instrumental role in establishing Radio Kudirat, a pro-democracy radio station that amplified the resistance against the Sani Abacha regime and honoured the slain activist, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola.

    Following the deaths of Abacha and Chief MKO Abiola in 1998, Fayemi transitioned from activism to academia and governance. 

    Upon returning to Nigeria in 1999, he founded the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) to promote democratic values and peace-building across Africa.

    Read Also: Pi-CNG woos Nigerians as another conversion centre opens in Lagos

    Tinubu recounted Fayemi’s foray into politics in 2006, when he contested for the Ekiti governorship under the Action Congress (AC). 

    Though initially denied victory in the 2007 elections, Fayemi persevered through a protracted legal battle that lasted over three years before being declared the rightful winner in 2010.

    The former Ekiti governor’s impact extended beyond state politics. Tinubu credited him with playing a pivotal role in the historic 2013 merger of opposition parties, which led to the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC). 

    Fayemi also chaired the panel that conducted the APC presidential primaries in 2014, which produced then-candidate Muhammadu Buhari.

    “Our party’s victory in the 2015 Presidential election, defeating an incumbent president and a ruling party that had vowed to rule Nigeria for 60 unbroken years, was a fitting reward for the hard work, teamwork, and capacity demonstrated by Fayemi, other campaign council members, and party leadership,” Tinubu said.

    After serving as Minister of Mines and Steel Development in Buhari’s first term, Fayemi returned as Ekiti State Governor in 2018. 

    Tinubu acknowledged his contributions to governance despite economic challenges, noting that Fayemi “made his mark in the governance of Ekiti State.”

    The President also commended Fayemi’s sportsmanship during the APC presidential primaries ahead of the 2023 elections. 

    A fellow aspirant, Fayemi ultimately stepped down for Tinubu on the convention night, an action the President described as a demonstration of “remarkable humility and comradeship.”

    Beyond politics, Tinubu lauded Fayemi’s contributions as an academic, author, administrator, and development expert.

    “As he turns 60, I wish him continued health and fulfillment in the years ahead,” Tinubu concluded.

  • At 60: Is Fayemi slowing down or revving up?

    At 60: Is Fayemi slowing down or revving up?

    • By Segun Dipe

    All journeys have secret destinations for which the traveler is unaware. -Martin Buber_.

    Indeed, life has been kind to Dr John Kayode Fayemi, CON. The democracy in Nigeria is favourable to him too, as he clocks 60 years.

    The two-term governor of Ekiti State (2000-2014 and 2018-2022 respectively) was adequately compensated for the forefront role he played in wresting power from under the jackboots of the military dictators and restoring democracy back to Nigeria. His was a voice that counted in the pro-democracy years and his voice has not stopped counting still.

    Or so it seems. Not that the journey was smooth for him though. He won an election but was denied the victory for three and half gruesome years until the judiciary, which he put his trust in eventually paid off for him.

    He also was shoved out in a controversial election, four years later, only to return four years after and consolidated on the governorship position for the party, All Progressives Congress, APC, culminating in his handing over power to a successor from the same party for the first time in the history of Ekiti State.

    The second term of Dr Fayemi as governor was not only eventfull but peaked superbly.

    The Nigeria Governors’ Forum, NGF will not forget him for it, for that was the time Fayemi became the chairman and changed the face of the forum for good. Before the Fayemi chairmanship, the forum was the punching bag of the country’s critic.

    It was seen as the lap dog of the federal government and the bastion of political corruption in Nigeria.

    Fayemi changed all that for good, making the forum to engage in advocacy and setting a clear agenda to chart an independent path from that of the federal government.

    And as if to compensate him for changing the face of the NGF, Fayemi emerged the President of the Forum of Regions of Africa, FORAF, in September 2022, about a month he was to hand over the baton of governorship of Ekiti to his successor in office, Gov. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

    The Forum brought together for the first time the Presidents of regions, counties and federal states of more than 20 African countries that have a second level of decentralised territorial government, including Nigeria, South Africa, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Madagascar, Mali, Niger, etc.

    Turning 60 after having crossed such a reasonable threshold of success should therefore be a big deal.

    Read Also: Ekiti 2026: Fayemi endorses Oyebanji for second term

    It should be a momentous occasion that deserves to be celebrated with heartfelt words and back-patting amidst pomps and pageantry. It should be a time for deep reflection too.

    But, I bet, the likes of Fayemi will not see such as a reclining time.

    He won’t see it as a big deal or time to slow down.

    To him, 60 is a number that must be accounted for, just the way of other numbers.

    Be assured that Dr. Fayemi will prioritise a lecture on national discourse to be delivered in his honour more than clinking of glasses.

    After all, that is what he had devoted his quality years to, and it shouldn’t stop abruptly.

    Fayemi will trust the partying, jollification and social do to the organisational ability of his bosom wife and fellow traveller through the Odyssey of life.

    That is the motherly Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi.

    For Fayemi, the only thing that will count as people share the day with him is new experience.

    He has too much still in his heart and head for the country Nigeria, the continent of Africa and the entire globe to want to see 60 as his resting year.

    He is convinced he has not poured out enough regarding national development, he has not written half the books he intends to write.

    He still wants to storm life with more intellectual disposition.

    He is still busy searching for that yet unsaid words that he must say for things to turn around 360° positively for the betterment of his environment, especially his country Nigeria.

    In the words of Arthur Ashe, success is a journey, not a destination.

    The doing is often more important than the outcome.

    So, to answer the question as to whether Fayemi will be slowing down or revving up as he clocks 60 years, which is often associated with retirement and senior citizenship, we may need to compare him with a vehicle.

    Slowing down a vehicle involves braking, which converts kinetic energy into heat energy.

    Revving up a vehicle’s engine increases its speed while the car is stationary.

    In other words, whichever way Dr. Fayemi has chosen to celebrate his 60th sojourning years on Planet Earth, his energy remains intact and cannot wane even a bit.

    May he continue to find grace to fulfil his dreams of giving his best to life.

    Happy Birthday, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, CON.

    May the lines continue to fall for you in pleasant places.

  • Fayemi: reconsider bicameral legislature

    Fayemi: reconsider bicameral legislature

    Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi. has called for reconsideration of Nigeria’s Bicameral Legislature to enhance good governance.

    Fayemi made the suggestion while speaking at the Sixth Justice Aderemi Lecture Series (JAALS) held in  Ibadan.

    The lecture was titled Bicameralism, Democracy, and Good Governance in Nigeria: Some Reflections, an offshoot of the conference topic Bicameralism and Good Governance. An Oxymoron?

    Drawing on historical context, Fayemi explained that bicameralism, comprising a Senate and a House of Representatives, provided a system of wider representation for pluralist societies.

    He noted that approximately 45 per cent of democracies worldwide practise bicameralism, including most federal entities like the United States, Canada, and Australia.

    Fayemi argued that while bicameralism offers potential benefits such as preventing hasty legislation, promoting division of labour, and providing checks and balances, these were not amply manifested in the context of Nigeria.

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    He emphasised that the country’s legislative arm remains underdeveloped, partly due to its interruptions during military rule, which has affected its independence and effectiveness.

    Fayemi was critical of the current perception of Nigeria’s National Assembly, often viewed by the public as a “rubber stamp” institution subservient to the executive branch.

    He was concerned that the Senate had become a haven for retired politicians who make little or no contributions at all, wondering if the current structure of a bicameral legislature was deepening democracy or bettering governance.

    Fayemi called for a re-evaluation of Nigeria’s governance system, particularly the need for devolution of powers to the country’s federating units.

    He argued that the core issue is not merely the type of legislature but the structure of Nigeria’s federalism, which had failed to serve the best interests of the nation.

  • Fayemi’s wife advises students on reading culture

    Fayemi’s wife advises students on reading culture

    The wife of former Ekiti state governor, Bisi Fayemi has called on students to nurture reading habits to enhance their mental capabilities.

    Mrs Fayemi described reading culture as the best remedy to pervasive trends of poverty, illiteracy, and oppression being experienced by Nigerian citizens.

    The ex-First Lady made the call during a book reading organised by the Ministry of Youth Development, in partnership with the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) held at the Adetiloye Hall, Trade Fair Complex, Ado Ekiti Capital City.

    She appealed to the students to develop reading skills and refrain from an obsession with false life, as typified by the youths who are exploring social media either for fun or criminal activities, saying “These can’t build a brighter future for anyone.”

    “Don’t get engaged in those things that can’t add value to your lives. Develop a strong passion for reading and knowledge-seeking. Make sure you get the right skills and read widely to get useful information that is relevant to self-development. Social media is good, but don’t misapply it wrongly”.

    She appealed to policymakers to make education more highly competitive to ignite improved standards, expressing resentment about the reduction in the cut of marks for entry into universities by the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB).

    She restated the call for the removal of all social injustices hindering female folks from realising their potential, saying sound education, through improved reading culture, remains a panacea to the endemic exclusion and class differences the females suffer in society.

    The chairman of the occasion and Ekiti State First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, said the demands which Mrs Fayemi sought in the new book were self-awareness, social justice, rights, and unobtrusive economic space, regardless of class and race.

    Read Also: ‘Fayemi’s wife an advocate for right of African women’

    Oyebanji saluted the former First Lady for being an unrepentant advocate of social justice and gender equality, saying these had helped in breaking the socio-cultural, economic, and political barriers against girl child education in the African continent.

    “Erelu Bisi Fayemi has joined the league of those who are using their writings to change the face of our society and create a conducive atmosphere where people can think. Cultivating a reading habit by youths is a foundation for a brighter and more prosperous future.”

    The Ekiti State Commissioner for Youth Development, Gold Adesola Adedayo, advocated an aggressive reading culture among youths, saying this is desperately required for Nigeria to attain the much-sought quality education status that can propel the economy.

    Adedayo said the programme, which prominently featured the First Lady of Ekiti State, Erelu Bisi Fayemi and the launching of her book titled: “Demand and Supply”, was conceptualized to promote a reading culture and role modelling in the state.

    “In promoting a culture of reading in a society facing numerous challenges like ours, it is crucial to emphasize the concept of role modelling. This is vital for the growth of education, as our youth, many of whom are transitioning from adolescence, need practical motivation to develop the intuition that guides critical thinking.

    “It is on this premise that we invited our Mother-General, Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, whose legacy in education and the academic world extends far beyond the borders of Ekiti State and Nigeria. Her presence here today is intended not only to inspire our youth but also to allow them to tap into her vast reservoir of knowledge.”

  • ‘Fayemi’s wife an advocate for right of African women’

    ‘Fayemi’s wife an advocate for right of African women’

    The wife of Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has described her predecessor, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, as an advocate for the right of African women.

    She said Mrs. Fayemi was a voice for the voiceless and a passionate crusader for the right of girl-child to quality education.

    Speaking at a book reading and conversation around the writings of Erelu Fayemi in Ado- Ekiti, which was organised by the Ekiti State chapter of the Association of Nigeria Authors (ANA), Dr. Oyebanji described her as a fertile literary mind, who had done a lot through writing to impact the society.

    Read Also: Minister urges commitment to promoting Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria

    She congratulated Erelu Fayemi on the publication of her latest book from which she read and shared her thoughts on issues.

    She emphasised the importance of cultivating a culture of reading and intellectual engagement among youths.

    “With her passion for writing and reading, Her Excellency has heeded the recommendation of Benjamin Franklin, “Either write something worth reading or do something worth writing (about).” She has written for us in ‘Demand and Supply’ something worth reading, and her passion for the education and empowerment of Africa’s womenfolk is something worth writing about,” Oyebanji said.

  • Fayemi, others call for public accountability

    Fayemi, others call for public accountability

    Feminist activist and policy advocate, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, media entrepreneur, Simon Kolawole, Tv host, Kadaria Ahmed and others have pushed for accountability for a better country.

    They spoke at the weekend at a forum organised by Akin Fadeyi Foundation (AFF) tagged: ‘The Impact Series with Kole Shettima.’

    They described MacArthur Foundation Director in Nigeria, Dr. Kole Shettima as a blessing as stakeholders in the country strive for a better society.

    Erelu Fayemi who is the wife of the last governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Shettima is one man who has created a way to make Nigerian leaders accountable despite the challenges associated with such endeavours in the country.

    She said: “Today is special for me because we all gather on this platform to speak about one man who has done a lot to change our country’s narrative. Dr. Shettima is one man who has created a way to make Nigerian leaders accountable despite the challenges associated with such endeavour. Shettima has made it possible for us to look power in the face and ask questions where necessary. To me, he is a real hero and we must all begin to learn one or two things from him to further impact our various societies.”

    She described him as a brother and friend who has done a lot to lift Nigeria and make leaders accountable and commended AFF for organising the impact series in honour of Shettima, while he’s still alive. She urged everyone to begin thinking of how best to celebrate their loved ones and leaders while they are alive.

    Fadeyi said the programme was put together not only to celebrate the anti-corruption crusader but to create a forum for members of the civil society community to engage, evaluate and give advice where necessary on good governance and fight against corruption. Fadeyi described Dr, Shettima as one change agent who lives and wakes with a thought on how to better Nigeria.

    Kolawole, who is the Publisher of The Cable Online, commended Dr. Shettima’s contribution to advance of press freedom and media development, and made a quick reference to the various leadership qualities in Dr. Shetima which all leaders who wish to succeed must imbibe.

    He said: “Beyond Dr. Shettima’s contribution to society growth, especially his commitment to training journalists in the area of investigative reporting and provision of equipment and tools for the media, one more thing I have found very exciting about Dr. Shettima is his simplicity. He has a listening here, he operates an open door policy -no fence around him and he picks calls and replies messages promptly. These are attributes I think all leaders who want to govern well and succeed should emulate.”

    A priest, who also doubles as the Executive Director of Lux Terra Leadership Foundation, Rev. Fr. George Ehusani, while commending Dr. Shettima for his contribution to humanity, said he was personally impressed that Dr. Shettima is accessible. According to him, he had only read or heard of his name prior to when he (Shettima) called and suggested an area of collaboration. According to Rev. Fr. Ehusanni, that singular call has created a lot of opportunity for his foundation and helped it in the area of behavioural engagement and direct mentorship.

    Publisher of Premium Times, Dapo Olorunyomi, said what Dr Shettima is doing could be traced  his undergraduate days.

    “As an undergraduate, Kole is committed to the betterment of Nigeria. Kole is thoughtful, culture blind and his humility personified despite the power and influence he wields. I must also add that Kole Shettima is one of the few people we should appreciate for the growth and development of investigative journalism and media in general in this modern age,”

    Read Also: Gov. Oborevwori, Fayemi, Kachukwu others, pay tribute to late Gbagi

    A Professor from Bayero University, Kano, Radda Sadiq Isah, said Dr. Shettima is one man whose contribution to Bayero University is difficult to forget. He also commended him for all his intervention initiatives which helped his organisation to monitor government activities and control corruption during the Buhari administration.

    “It will be difficult, if not impossible to talk about progressive activism in Nigeria without talking about Kunle Shettima. He is one person who is doing a lot without attracting unnecessary publicity. His concern every day is hinged on what can be done to make Nigeria great,” Prof Isah added.

    Dr. Shettima said what AFF did was nothing but a bloodless coup and commended the organisers and appreciated all for their generous contributions.

    He also applauded the contributions of his team members for the impact he has made, adding that without their support he couldn’t have done it alone.

    He said: “The kind of people you work with always make the difference. Pay attention to the people you work with. I personally always care a lot about people and the foundation has helped me actualise my dreams.”

  • Káyọ̀dé Fáyẹmí àti Afẹ́ Babalọlá: Ó yẹ ẹni gbogbo kó dín owó aró kù kò yẹ atọ̀ọ́lé

    Káyọ̀dé Fáyẹmí àti Afẹ́ Babalọlá: Ó yẹ ẹni gbogbo kó dín owó aró kù kò yẹ atọ̀ọ́lé

    Sina Fadare

    L aipẹ yii ni ede-ai-yede waye laarin gomina ana nipinlẹ Ekiti, Ọmọwe Kayọde Fayẹmi ati agba ọjẹ ninu imọ ofin ati oludasilẹ Yunifasiti Afẹ Babalọla, Aarẹ Afẹ Babalọla nipa ọrọ ti baba yii sọ nigba to n ṣe agbeyẹwo awọn gomina to ti jẹ ni ipinlẹ Ekiti.

    Ninu akiyesi Babalọla, o sọ pe ko si gomina to gbe igbesẹ akin lati tun ipinlẹ Ekiti ṣe bii Gomina Biọdun Oyebamiji ninu gbogbo gomina to ti jẹ nipinlẹ yii. Bo tilẹ jẹ pe ninu gbogbo gomina ti Babalọla dari ọrọ rẹ si, Ọmọwe Kayọde Fayẹmi lo fesi si ọrọ ti baba yii sọ. Ṣugbọn ohun to sọ ko muna doko rara nitori pe ki i ṣe Fayẹmi ni yoo fẹnu ara rẹ sọ pe ohun to ṣe gẹgẹbi gomina ipinlẹ Ekiti bi ko ṣe awọn eeyan ni yoo gbe e wo boya o fẹrẹ tabi wuwo lori oṣuwọn wọn.

    Ninu awijare Fayẹmi, baba Babalola ti dagba ati pe ko mọ nnkan to n ṣe mọ. Ede ti Fayẹmi pe yii ku diẹ kaato. Nilẹ Yoruba, ohun meji lo ṣe pataki ti Yoruba pọnle pupọ, ọjọ ori ati ipo agbara. Ti eeyan ba tilẹ kere ṣugbọn ti Ọlọrun gbe e ga sipo aṣiwaju, ọba, oloṣelu bii gomina tabi ọmọ ile igbimọ aṣofin apapọ, wọn yoo fun onitọhun ni apọnle to yẹ.

     Yoruba bọ wọn ni o yẹ ẹni gbogbo ko din owo aro ku, ko yẹ atọọle. Ko yẹ ko jẹ iru Fayẹmi ni yoo tabuku baba Afẹ, ti Oke lbadan yoo ba gba maalu, ki i ṣe ẹnu alagbaro ni wọn yoo ti gbọ ọ. Ni ilẹ oni to mọ, ko si ẹni to le gbagbe ipa ribiribi ti Afẹ Babalọla ko nipa dida ipinlẹ Ekiti silẹ, gbogbo ohun to wa ni ikapa rẹ lo ṣe to si lo lati jẹ ki ipinlẹ Ekiti waye eyi ti Fayẹmi ni anfani lati ṣe gomina rẹ. Inu igbo ni ọbọ Fayẹmi wa nigba ti ewurẹ Babalọla ti n ṣogo ninu ile.

    O jẹ ohun iyalẹnu lọpọlọpọ pe Fayẹmi ko beṣu-bẹgba lati sọ oko ọrọ si baba to ti le ni aadọrun ọdun, ṣe wo ni ko too woni ni tabi woyan ni ko too woyan, kin ni aṣeyọri ti Fayẹmi ṣe fun gbogbo Ekiti ni gbogbo ọdun mẹjọ to fi ṣe gomina yatọ si owo ijọba to na, ti a le fi we ohun ti Babalọla ti gbe ṣe fun gbogbo Ekiti ati awọn to ni anfaani lati ran lọwọ gẹgẹbi agbẹjọro to gunyan fun ẹgbẹ to tun gbawo bọ ninu iṣẹ ofin.

    Ti ọmọde ba kọ iyan alẹ, awọn agba yoo fi itan balẹ, ọmọ to si sọ pe ọbẹ ti baba oun se ko dun, itan bi iya rẹ ṣe lọ lo fẹẹ gbọ. Yatọ si oyinbo bii ọpẹẹrẹ ti a mọ Fayẹmi si nigba to wa lori aga gomina, meloo ninu awọn ọmọ Ekiti to le tọka si pe oun tun igbesi aye wọn ṣe lai pariwo tabi lai lo owo ijọba, ko bọ sita ko waa sọ.

    Gẹgẹbi oniroyin onitọpinpin fun ọpọlọpọ ọdun, oju tole, bẹẹ loju toko, bẹẹ ni itan ko ni i gbagbe awọn iṣẹ akanṣe ti ijọba Fayẹmi pati bii aṣọ to gbo, ti ọpọlọpọ owo gọbọi si wọlẹ si i. Ṣugbọn eleyii ki i ṣe ohun a mu jiroro ni akoko yii, bi ko ṣe ọjọ mi-in ọjọ’re.

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    Yunifasiti Afẹ Babalọla ti o n gbe ipinlẹ  Ekiti larugẹ lọwọlọwọ bayii jẹ ohun ti awọn ọba ati ọtọkulu ilu nipinlẹ Ekiti rin ọpọlọpọ irinajo si lbadan lati parọwa fun baba yii pe gbogbo awọn iṣẹ akanṣe ti ko lafiwe to ti ṣe si awọn Yunifasiti kaakiri Naijiria gbọdọ jẹ ṣiṣe ni Ekiti naa.

    Bo tilẹ jẹ pe Babalọla ko ni in lọkan lati da ileewe yii silẹ, ṣugbọn awọn aworo ṣaṣa eyi ti gomina nigba kan l’Ekiti Onimọ-ẹrọ Ṣẹgun Oni ko sodi, parọwa fun baba yii pe ile ni abọ isinmi oko ati pe awọn yoo fun un ni gbogbo iwuri to nilo lati ri i pe yunifasiti yii di dida silẹ. Gbogbo iyooku ti dọrọ itan lonii.

    Yatọ si eleyii, ninu ero Fayẹmi, iṣẹ ribiribi ti oun ṣe lakoko ti oun jẹ gomina lo jẹ ki awọn eeyan ipinlẹ Ekiti dibo fun ẹgbẹ Onigbaalẹ eyi ti oun ṣe aṣoju rere fun. Nipa ti eleyii, ero Fayẹmi nikan ni, omi n bẹ lamu ti a ba ni ki a da a silẹ ki a tun un sa nipa awọn itẹsiwaju to ti ba ipinlẹ Ekiti lati ọdun diẹ sẹyin.

    Ninu iwoye wọn nipa gbọn mi si omi ko to yii to wa laarin awọn ọmọ Ekiti meji yii, ẹgbẹ kan ti ki i ṣe tijọba ti wọn pe ara wọn ni ‘Ekiti Patriotic Consultative Forum’ sọ pe ede agọ gbaa ni Fayẹmi pe lati sọ pe ọjọ ori n da baba Afẹ Babalọla laamu ati pe ohun lo jẹ ko sọ ohun to sọ.

    Ẹgbẹ yii ninu atẹjiṣẹ to fi sita eyi ti akọwe ẹgbẹ naa, Amofin Oluwagbenga Babawibẹ, fọwọ si sọ pe ki Fayẹmi ma dunnu rara pe oun ṣe ohun manigbagbe ni ọdun mẹjọ to fi wa gẹgẹbi gomina ipinlẹ Ekiti nitori awọn aleebu rẹ n tọ ọ lẹyin.

    “Fun Fayẹmi lati maa fi  idibo to gbe Gomina Biọdun Oyebanji wọle gẹgẹbi imu yangan iṣẹ to ṣe ti awọn eeyan Ekiti fi dibo, eleyii ki i ṣe ara rẹ rara. Wiwọle Oyebanji kọja Fayẹmi, ti oun funrarẹ gan-an mọ ati pe to ba jẹ pe orukọ rẹ ni Oyebanji ba fi polongo ibo ni, ofo ọjọ keji ọja ni ki ba jẹ ati pe gbogbo awọn ọmọ Ekiti lo han si gbangban pe owo ijọba Ekiti lo fi ṣe agbatẹru ipo aarẹ to ro pe oun yoo ri gba ṣe ki wọn too fi ohun ti oju ọdalẹ n ri han an.”

    Bo tilẹ jẹ pe ẹgbẹ yii sọ pe ki Fayẹmi tọrọ aforiji fun aṣiṣe to ṣe, ṣugbọn Yoruba sọ pe wọn ni ki oro ma sọko mọ, ṣugbọn eyi to wa lọwọ rẹ yii nkọ? Ohun to daju ni pe ọmọde to n jẹ eewọ, awọn baba wa ni ko mura si i ko maa jẹ ẹ, to ba ya ohun to n bini ko ni i ṣalai bini.

    O daju ṣaka pe Fayẹmi ti ṣe aṣiṣe yii, eyi to mọ-ọn-mọ ṣe, ṣebi ewurẹ to le kigbe ju kọ ni ebi n pa ati pe o di dandan ki ọmọde Fayẹmi fi ọjọ mẹta sunkun ko too le fọwọ kan ẹyin abuke.

  • Get involved in student govt, campus politics – Fayemi urges students

    Get involved in student govt, campus politics – Fayemi urges students

    …as maiden students’ legislative summit ends

    Former governor of Ekiti state, Kayode Fayemi has urged students to get involved in student government and campus politics, saying it would provide a hands-on opportunity for them to learn about governance structures and decision-making processes. 

    He spoke in a keynote address at the 2day Students Legislative Summit powered by the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin.

    Fayemi was represented at the event by the majority leader, Ekiti State Assembly, Engr. Tolulope Ige.

    He said: “By participating in student councils, legislative bodies, and policy discussions, we can gain valuable experience in leadership and governance.”

    Speaking at the end of the Summit, the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin described the Students Legislative Summit as a huge success.

    He said the turn out was impressive while the resource persons were brilliant and insightful.

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    Ogundoyin said: “The maiden edition of Adebo Ogundoyin Students’ Legislative Summit has been concluded. To God be the glory as the 2day event lived up to expectation. I am very happy that in the last two days, we have been able to expose the students to the nitty gritty of lawmaking and it impact in nation building. 

    “It was well attended by students from 65 tertiary institutions across the Southwest Nigeria while the array of experienced speakers, panelists and moderators who attended the summit gave beautiful and brilliant presentations. I will like to say again that, the summit provided opportunity for the delegates to air their views on critical sectors of the economy. 

    “I must say that, the summit has further convinced me of the need to create more training programs and avenues for the youths to garner experiences and also learn from the elders. We must allow them to be part of national discourse.

    “They should be able to express themselves, and we should let their suggestions and views count. This will give them a sense of belonging and will make the government policies acceptable to them.”

    Highpoint of the final day event was the division of the delegates in different syndicate groups. 

    This afforded the opportunity to discuss, appraise and share their views on key components of national development which included power, education, true federalism, healthcare, agriculture and food security, technology, employment and human capital development, environment, culture and tourism.

  • Oyebanji, Fayemi, others mourn as Ekiti APC chairman dies

    Oyebanji, Fayemi, others mourn as Ekiti APC chairman dies

    The Ekiti state chapter of the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) was thrown into mourning following the demise of its state chairman, Paul Omotoso.

    Announcing Omotoso’s demise, the APC state publicity secretary, Segun Dipe said the incident occurred around 9 pm on Tuesday, March 5, after a brief illness.

    Dipe added that the deceased was actively present in the office till the close of work on Tuesday complained of a slight fever and was rushed to a government hospital in Ado-Ekiti, where he later died.

    He said: “We are sad to announce the passing of the State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ekiti, Barrister Paul Ayodele Omotosho. The sad news broke yesterday Tuesday, March 5, at about 9.00 pm.

    “Barrister Omotosho was still actively present in the office yesterday till the close of work. His death could not be immediately traced to any sickness. He, however, complained of fatigue and fever at about 4.00 pm and opted to go home to rest. He was to be rushed to the hospital later when the pain increased but gave up the ghost after.

    “Barrister Omotosho will be remembered for the positive contributions he made to the party, especially during his tenure as the Chairman from 2018 till he breathes his last. He ran the affairs of the party commendably with consecutive victories at the poll”, he added.

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    In his reaction, Ekiti state governor, Biodun Oyebanji, expressed shock over Omotoso because he did not show any sign of illness during their last meeting.

    Governor Oyebanji who said he is yet to come to terms with the demise of the APC chairman, described Omotoso as a dependable brother and ally, who was a great and invaluable asset to the APC family as well as the government.

    According to him, Omotoso would be eternally remembered as the first party chairman in the state to achieve a back-to-back victory for a party in the political history of Ekiti State.

    Governor Oyebanji said the deceased’s selflessness and sacrifices contributed to the internal cohesion which made the Ekiti APC an unstoppable election-winning machine in local government, state, and national elections conducted during his chairmanship.

    “We have lost a dependable pillar in Ekiti’s development and partner in our development effort as a government. We have lost a great leader, a peacemaker, a humble servant of the people, and an altruistic party organiser.

    “On behalf of the Government and the good people of the state, I express condolences to the immediate family of our late chairman and the people of Imesi Ekiti and the entire members of APC.

    “Our prayers and thoughts are with the family of the deceased. May God grant them and every one of us the fortitude to bear this great loss. And may God grant our dear departed brother eternal rest”, the statement added.

    Similarly, former Governor of Ekiti State Dr Kayode Fayemi, expressed sadness over the APC Chairman’s death, saying his sudden exit has created a significant gap within the APC family and among all those familiar with him.

    Fayemi, in a condolence message by the Head of his media office, Ahmad Sajoh, on Wednesday, described Omotosh as a dedicated leader and unwavering advocate of the APC’s principles and agenda in Ekiti State.

    He said: “Under his stewardship, our party achieved significant victories in recent elections, gaining the trust of our people. This would not have been possible without his commitment to uniting our members and working selflessly for the greater good of our state and nation.’’

    “Omotoso’s contributions and sacrifices for our party will never be forgotten. He was a man of integrity who led by example, inspiring the party faithful with his passion for service and dedication. His leadership kept us united and focused on our mission even in the face of challenges.

    “Ekiti State and the APC have lost a pillar, a grassroots mobilizer, and a committed leader. We mourn this devastating loss, but we take solace in the lasting legacy and sterling example he leaves behind.

    The Peoples Democratic Party in Ekiti condoled with the APC over the death of its State Chairman, stating that it shared in the pain of the families and friends of the late APC leader.

    The opposition party in a statement by the State Publicity Secretary, Mr Raphael Adeyanju described Omotosho as a patriot who placed the interest of Ekiti State above partisan politics,

    He said: “On behalf of all members of our great party PDP, we express our condolence with the Government of Ekiti State and the families of Barrister Omotosho over the untimely demise of a promising Ekiti State son.

    “Our only consolation is that the late APC leader lived a well-fulfilled life as a God-fearing man, a responsible family man, a dedicated community leader, and a committed party man.

    “The party wishes the families, friends, and political associates of the late patriot continued support and guidance of the Almighty God.”