BREAKING: Two Arrested with Weapons During Attempted Kidnap in Igede Ekiti

NaijaPulse 

There was tension earlier today in Igede-Ekiti, Ifelodun/Irepodun Local Government Area, as two young men were arrested in connection with an attempted kidnapping incident.

The suspects, both known loyalists and local coordinators of governorship aspirant, Engr. Kayode Ojo, were reportedly caught with guns, cutlasses, and fetish items. They were apprehended after the victim raised an alarm that drew the attention of residents and the police.

According to eyewitnesses, the men were intercepted after a victim raised alarm during the attempted attack. Residents quickly mobilised and alerted security operatives, leading to the arrest.

Security sources confirm that investigation is ongoing to unravel the full extent of their operation and possible affiliations.

Calm has since returned to the area.

More details shortly…

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Ojudu Backs Oyebanji for Second Term, Credits Peaceful Leadership for Ekiti’s Growth

NaijaPulse

Senator Babafemi Ojudu, CON, has declared his full support for the second-term bid of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, as members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across the 16 local government areas of Ekiti State converge in Ado Ekiti to endorse the governor.

In a statement personally signed on Sunday, Ojudu said although he could not attend the event due to engagements outside the state, he stands firmly with the decision of the party faithful.

“I wholeheartedly align myself with this collective aspiration. I believe he has earned the trust and confidence of the people and deserves the opportunity to continue his work,” the former presidential aide stated.

Ojudu, who was present at the Central Senatorial District’s earlier endorsement of the governor, described Oyebanji as a focused and effective administrator who has made tangible impact despite limited resources.

He particularly praised the governor’s role in maintaining peace and political stability in the state.

“Since taking office, Ekiti has enjoyed an unprecedented atmosphere of political calm. There have been no reports of political assassinations, targeted violence, or harassment of opponents, whether within or outside our party,” he noted.

Ojudu urged stakeholders to preserve the peaceful environment as the 2026 election season approaches. He stressed the importance of free and fair competition, allowing every aspirant to campaign without fear or intimidation.

“Democracy thrives when all voices can be heard. Let the people decide at the ballot box-freely and fairly,” he added.

He concluded by expressing confidence that the governor’s performance and goodwill will earn him a second term.

“Let us keep the peace, strengthen our democracy, and move Ekiti forward,” Ojudu said.

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A Story of Leadership and Endorsement

Byy Steve Oribamise 

As I watched the preparations for the joint endorsement rally for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji, scheduled for July 28th in Ado Ekiti, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and optimism. The event, which was initially set for July 23rd, has been rescheduled to allow for better logistical coordination and robust attendance.

President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji have demonstrated remarkable leadership qualities that make them ideal candidates for a second term. 

Both leaders have shown a clear vision for the country and the state, driving development and progress through their policies.

Governor Oyebanji's administration has prioritized the welfare of Ekiti people, investing in critical infrastructure and promoting inclusive growth.

President Tinubu's leadership style emphasizes discipline and integrity, earning him respect and admiration from many Nigerians.

Governor Oyebanji's achievements in healthcare, sports, and infrastructure development have transformed Ekiti State, making him a deserving candidate for re-election .

The people of Ekiti should support President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji for their remarkable achievements and commitment to development. Thousands of Ekiti residents are expected to attend the rally, demonstrating their collective decision to support both leaders for a second term.

Surveyor Abiodun Aluko, Chairman of the State-wide Endorsement Committee, emphasized that the endorsement is driven by the people's satisfaction and confidence in Governor Oyebanji's leadership, citing his performance across all aspects of governance ¹.

The joint endorsement rally is a testament to the people's confidence in President Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji's leadership. With their visionary leadership, people-centered approach, and commitment to development, they deserve the support of the people for second term.

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Efon APC Leadership Apologizes to Oyebanji Over Local Member’s Criticism, Highlights Development

 ...to set up disciplinary committee 

In a meeting held at Efon Alaaye on Wednesday, the local government chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Efon, Hon. Ojo Idowu, popularly known as Miracle, has publicly apologized to Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Abayomi Oyebanji on behalf of the All Progressives Congress (APC) members in Efon. This apology comes in response to a critical article written by Goke Olajide, a former member of the Ekiti State House of Assembly.

The meeting, which had top echelon of the party in the LG in attendance, also resolved to set up a disciplinary committee from Efon Ward 1 through the LG to the Ekiti State chapter of the All Progressives Congress(APC). Goke Olajide hails from Efon Ward 1.

In a video doing the rounds on social media, Hon. Ojo condemned Olajide's actions, stating that they were unwarranted given the significant benefits that the Efon local government has received from the Oyebanji administration. He highlighted various achievements, including improved infrastructure and human capital development in Efon. "Whatever personal issues Olajide has with our party or the governor could have been handled in-house and not in the media," Ojo remarked, emphasizing the positive impact of the current administration's initiatives, such as the high-quality healthcare facility that he described as one of the best in Ekiti.

Ojo also pointed to the employment opportunities created for young people and the enhancement of road conditions in Efon, praising the active involvement of local citizens in the administration's successes. 

In a show of unity, the Efon APC executive committee announced plans to invite Olajide for discussions, with the intent to understand his perspective and realign his views with the party's agenda. Ojo firmly stated that opposing the governor publicly without exploring internal resolution channels is inappropriate and should be condemned.

Further supporting Ojo's sentiments, Hon. Babajide Odunayo, the Chairman of Efon APC Ward 1 where Olajide hails from, urged the governor not to take offence over Olajide's remarks, proposing the establishment of a committee to investigate the matter comprehensively. 

Additionally, Hon. Olamide Owolabi, the Chairman of Ward Chairmen in Efon, echoed the disapproval of Olajide's actions, asserting that they were unjustified in light of the governor's commendable performance.

Concluding their remarks, the Efon APC local government executive committee appealed to Governor Oyebanji to extend forgiveness to Olajide, clarifying that his criticisms did not represent the views of the Efon people but were solely his individual opinions.

Other local government party chiefs present at the meeting are: 

* EFON LG APC Secretary: Mr Ojo Sunday 

* EFON LG APC Woman leader: Hon. Mrs Orire Rhoda

* EFON LG APC Youth Leader : Hon. Oluwafemi Gbenga 

* Ward 2 Chairman: Mr Ajayi Joseph 

* Ward 3 Chairman: Mr Aladegbola Adeboki

* Ward 4 Chairman: Mr Olusegun Sunday 

* Ward 5 Chairman: Mr Sunday Adeniji

* Ward 6 Chairman: Mr Owolabi Olamide

* Ward 7 Chairman: Mr Olaniran Ilesanmi 

* Ward 8 Chairman: Mr Obi Sunday 

* Ward 9 Chairman: Mr ilesanmi Jacob

* Ward 10 Chairman: Mr Sunday Olowokere

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Sawmillers to BAO: You Gave Us Back Our Forests, We’re Giving You Our Endorsement

Naija Pulse 

July 16, 2025 

The Biodun Oyebanji administration has once again received another strong endorsement from the grassroots, this time from the Ekiti State Sawmillers and Timber Association, who declared open support for the Governor, citing the restoration of security in the forests where their trade operates.

The association made this known during the inauguration of its newly elected state executives held at the Governor’s Office, Ado Ekiti, on Monday. 

The members, led by the new State President, Chief Adeyeye Adekanbi, were received by the Director-General, Bureau of Community Communications, Mrs. Mary Oso-Omotosho.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Chief Adekanbi said the association’s support for Governor Oyebanji’s government was a direct response to the renewed sense of safety they now enjoy while carrying out their daily business activities in the forest reserves.

“Our endorsement of Governor Oyebanji is not based on politics, but on lived reality,

“Before now, we could not freely enter the bush to work. There was fear of kidnappers, attacks, and insecurity. Today, that has changed. We now go about our work without fear, and we are witnessing improvement in access roads across the state. It would be unfair to pretend not to notice what this government has done,” he said. 

He described the restoration of peace and access in the forests as a major turnaround for the timber industry in Ekiti, noting that the safety of their members had been a long-standing concern prior to the intervention of the present administration.

In her response, the Director-General of the Bureau of Community Communications, Mrs. Mary Oso-Omotosho, commended the association for recognising the genuine efforts of the Oyebanji-led government. 

She assured them of the Governor’s continuous commitment to providing enabling conditions for all sectors to thrive.

“The Governor is deliberate about ensuring that every Ekiti citizen, no matter their trade or location, feels the impact of government. We are glad that you are seeing the difference and speaking out about it,” she said.

The endorsement adds to a growing list of public support for the Governor from trade associations, professional groups, and various sectors who have continued to acknowledge the impact of the administration’s people-centred policies.

For the timber sector, where daily survival once meant confronting the fear of abduction or extortion, the renewed security presence put in place by the Governor Oyebanji's administration has restored confidence and also given them back their dignity in labour.

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Ekiti First Lady Leads in Governance While Staying True to Her Profession

First Lady of Ekiti State, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has returned fully to the classroom after a brief sabbatical to support her husband, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, during the 2022 governorship election.

Spotted recently at the University of Ibadan, Dr. Oyebanji resumed lectures with the same calmness, depth, and professionalism she’s always been known for.

She currently teaches EME 407 (Management Behavior in Organizations) and EME 202 (Principles of Educational Administration), two demanding courses that require academic brilliance and real-life experience, both of which she brings in abundance.

It should be recalled that the First Lady took a properly approved sabbatical to stand by her husband, not as a politician, but as a supportive partner. Now, staying true to herself, she has returned to class while still remotely supporting her husband.

It is also worth noting that Dr. Oyebanji, out of love and passion for her profession, has at different times lectured in higher institutions across Ekiti, including Ekiti State University and Afe Babalola University, both in Ado-Ekiti.

Students who sat in her class spoke glowingly of her. 

“She teaches like someone who never left. Very engaging, practical, and sharp.” one of them said. 

Her return is a strong reminder to young women that it is possible to support your family and still remain grounded in your own calling. True leadership shows in how you stay committed to purpose, whether in public service or personal profession.

Outside the classroom, Dr. Oyebanji continues to quietly touch lives through her various social impact programmes focused on widows, orphans, the elderly, and vulnerable groups. Yet, she has never tried to interfere in party structures or hijack political roles.

It should be unequivocally stated, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji is not a politician. She is a distinguished academic, an Associate Professor, and a woman of profound principles. Those attempting to embroil her in political intrigue are evidently chasing shadows.

Naijapulse salute her quiet strength, her loyalty to purpose, and the way she balances public service with her professional life. She is truly a role model, not just for Ekiti daughters, but for women across Nigeria.

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Ekiti Guber Race: Segun Oni Debunks Rumours about his Ambition

As 2026 governorship race hots up in Ekiti, an elder statesman and Former Governor of Ekiti State, Chief Ṣẹgun Oni, has debunked reports of his interest in the race.

Chief Ṣẹgun Oni made this known through his spokesman,  Moses Jolayemi earlier today.

A statement  was issued in reaction to an incident of campaign posters that flooded the capital city of Ekiti, Ado Ekiti from anv unknown source.

The statement that was issued signed by Moses Jolayemi reads, "Our attention has been drawn to the posters apparently pasted overnight suggesting that Asiwaju Segun Oni is running in the next governorship election in Ekiti state under the umbrella of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

"We wish to state categorically that this did not emanate from us and we have no idea who the sponsors are.

In debunking this, Oni said "this could be out of love or out of mischief, but whatever it is, I did not authorize it and I am not part of it" he said, adding "I, Segun Oni, cannot be stampeded into taking any actions".

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Kayode Ojo in Fresh Trouble as ADC Fires Warning Shot

Kayode Ojo in Fresh Trouble as ADC Fires Warning Shot

...says, “Our Ticket Not for Serial Losers, Perpetual Defectors”

Engr. Kayode Ojo’s fresh bid for the Ekiti governorship under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) may have hit a serious roadblock, and this time, the fire is coming from within the party's state chapter.

Top ADC chieftains in Ekiti have kicked against Ojo’s quiet romance with the party’s national leadership, warning Abuja not to fall for who they described as “a habitual defector, a serial loser, and a politician with no ideological consistency.”

“We know him too well in Ekiti. He’s highly unstable, desperate, and self-centered. He once dragged his former party to court up to the Supreme Court simply because he lost a primary. The national leadership must be careful,” a senior party stakeholder cautioned.

Echoing this sentiment, another top ADC official stated, "Our ticket is not for serial losers and perpetual defectors.

"The party is looking for candidates with impeccable character, whose Omoluabi ethos can rival that of the incumbent Governor. A consistent and loyal person, not fair-weather aspirants like Kayode Ojo."

Ojo’s decision to pitch his tent with the ADC after previously seeking nominations in other parties has raised fresh questions about his political credibility and stability.

Critics say his moves reflect a lack of ideological depth and a pattern of putting personal ambition above party principles.

To make matters worse, it was learned that Prince Akin Olayisade, a key supporter of Kayode Ojo, reportedly withdrew his backing about three days ago. According to sources, this decision followed his realization that Kayode Ojo's claimed support and capabilities might be overstated.

The backlash has triggered heavy speculation about Ojo’s standing within the party. Will he be able to convince ADC leaders that he’s genuinely committed to the cause, or will his past come back to haunt him?

Still, Ojo remains upbeat. In a statement, he said, “I’m confident my ambition will prevail. I’ve been working tirelessly to convince ADC leaders and members that I’m the best candidate for the job.”

With the ADC primaries fast approaching, uncertainty looms over his fate. Can he turn the tide in his favour, or will the ghosts of his past affiliations and courtroom battles return to shut the door on his ambition?

As his camp continues to rally support, urging the national leadership to give him a chance, the mood from the top seems unmoved, leaving Ojo’s future in ADC hanging by a thread.

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Kayode Ojo in Talks to Join ADC as APC Door Closes, Enlists Atiku Ally as DG

Ikoro-Ekiti-born entrepreneur and politician, Engr. Kayode Ojo, is poised to transition to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) amid intensifying uncertainties regarding his prospects within the All Progressives Congress (APC). 

Ojo divulged this information to his loyal supporters in what is being characterized as a courageous political realignment, prompted by recent high-profile endorsements for incumbent Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji within the APC.

Reliable sources indicate that strategic discussions are currently underway between Ojo and prominent ADC stakeholders in both Abuja and Port Harcourt, with notable political luminaries such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, former Osun Governor Rauf Aregbesola, and Senator David Mark participating in these deliberations.

It appears that the opportunities available to Ojo within the APC have substantially diminished.

Governor Oyebanji presently enjoys extensive institutional support, leaving Ojo with scant room for maneuverability.

Nevertheless, he remains steadfast in his resolve to challenge the prevailing order, with his aspirations now firmly anchored in the ADC platform.

Spearheading Ojo’s new political trajectory is Hon. Lanre Fayemi, a former Minority Leader of the Ekiti State House of Assembly (PDP, 1999) and a close confidant of Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

Although Fayemi is from Ifaki Ward 2, his political endeavors in the town have been less than impressive over the past two years. 

His last known party affiliation was with the Social Democratic Party (SDP), although his current political orientation remains ambiguous.

Other prominent members of Ojo’s entourage include Hons. Ropo Ige, Taju Gidado, Motunde Fajuyi, and Olusola Omolayo. 

These key individuals, who all rallied behind Ojo during the 2022 APC primaries, left the APC and have not rejoined the party since then. 

Hon. Olusola Omolayo, in particular, contested the House of Assembly seat under the SDP banner against the current Speaker of the House. As of today, he and others like Ropo Ige of Ikoro-Ekiti remain steadfastly outside the APC, despite Ojo's subtle attempts to project a mainstream status.

Hon.(Mrs) Motunde Fajuyi contested the Ekiti Central senatorial seat against the current Senate Leader, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele(MOB) under the ADC platform in 2023 and remains a towering figure in the party till today. 

Despite setbacks in the 2018 and 2022 APC primaries, where he was defeated by Governor Kayode Fayemi and Governor Oyebanji, respectively, Kayode Ojo is banking on his political network, financial resources, and renewed support from national figures to reinvigorate his ambitions under the ADC banner.

Previously, certain blocks within the APC have consistently called for the expulsion of the Kayode Ojo Group from the party, citing a blatant disregard for the section of the party constitution that prohibits members from dragging party representatives before the courts until all internal remedies have been exhausted.

With the political climate in Ekiti becoming increasingly charged, all eyes are on Kayode Ojo’s forthcoming actions as he prepares to mount a formidable opposition and reassert his significance on a new political stage.

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A Heartfelt Salute to a True Leader: Oribamise Reacts to First Lady's ₦1 Billion Donation

Sir Steve Oribamise, is compelled to express his deepest admiration for the selfless act of compassion and generosity displayed by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

 Her N1 billion donation to support internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Plateau State is a shining example of her unwavering commitment to the welfare of Nigerians, he said.

According to him, this remarkable gesture, made through her Renewed Hope Initiative, will undoubtedly bring hope and relief to many families who have been displaced by conflict and violence. 

"The initiative's efforts, including economic empowerment programs and support for persons with disabilities, demonstrate her dedication to uplifting humanity.

"I commend the First Lady's leadership and vision, which have inspired a beacon of hope for many Nigerians. Her call for peace and development in Plateau State, particularly in unlocking the state's immense tourism potential, is a timely reminder of the importance of unity and progress.

Sir Oribamise noted that as a nation, we must come together to support our fellow citizens in need. "I urge all Nigerians to join me in saluting the First Lady's compassion and generosity. 

"Her efforts are a testament to her character and commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians.

"I pray that this gesture will inspire others to follow in her footsteps, and together, we can build a brighter future for our nation", he said.

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