Ekiti Guber: Media Juggernaut Slams PDP Aspirant Over Unauthorized Use of State Emblem

NaijaPulse 

A seasoned media professional, Hon. Raheem Akingbolu, has taken a swipe at Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship aspirant, Dr. Oluyede, for what he described as a blatant misuse of the Ekiti State official emblem in campaign materials.

In a strongly-worded statement, Akingbolu lambasted Dr. Oluyede’s campaign strategy, calling it a "farrago of missteps and mixed messages." While acknowledging the aspirant's right to seek office, he argued that Oluyede’s recurring approach every election cycle reflects desperation and a lack of strategic depth.

"Now, I have just observed a blunder in your poster. Constitutionally, the state insignia can only be used for official matters and documents. But now, you have undermined that straightforward protocol," Akingbolu pointed out.

He further warned that Ekiti people are politically conscious and will not tolerate any form of impunity or disregard for due process.

"Oga Doki, this is Ekiti, we are no fools, and we know our right from our left. Play the game by the rules. It’s not about gangsterism or unnecessary sloganeering; it’s about credibility, trust, and strategy. Nobody can enter Oke Bareke through the backdoor, as this poster appears to suggest. Again, play by the rules," he cautioned.

The use of state emblems in political campaigns remains a contentious issue, as legal provisions restrict their usage to official government purposes. Dr. Oluyede is yet to respond to the criticism.

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Ekiti 2026: Adeleke, Ekiti PDP and the Impending Disaster

The appointment of Mr. Dare Adeleke as the Caretaker Chairman of the PDP in Ekiti was welcomed with enthusiasm by members of the Ekiti PDP believing that his coming will bring a breath of fresh air to the party.

Events in recent times has shown that Adeleke is not bringing a breath of Fresh air but polluted air into the party. 

First was the issue of the people he selected to man the affairs of the party at the Local government/ward level which stirred up criticisms and protest across the party.

Recent actions of the Caretaker Chairman has now revealed the selection was intentional to achieve a sinister motive of ensuring a particular candidate said to be a bosom friend of Osun State Governor emerge as the Governorship candidate of the PDP in 2026.

The continuous postponement of the State Congress was altogether part of the plan to ensure the current Caretaker Committee will conduct the Governorship primary of the party to deliver a particular candidate being sponsored by the Governor of Osun State and his counterpart in Oyo State.

Mr Dare Adeleke should be cautioned by all members and lovers of Ekiti PDP to not further disintegrate the party that we are trying to resuscitate after its collapse, which was also caused by imposing an unpopular Candidate on the party in 2022 by Mr. Ayo Fayose.

There are many popular aspirants jostling for Ekiti PDP ticket. Some of these candidates have been keeping the party together in Ekiti since its last defeat. They have used their personal resources to finance the party as well as cater for some of the financial burdens of party members in times of need. Neglecting these aspirants and foisting an unpopular, arrogant and boastful aspirant as candidate of the party in Ekiti will be more catastrophic than the loss of 2022 Governorship election, which foundation of failure was laid by Ayo Fayose. 

There has been reports of frequent visits by Mr. Adeleke to Osun State Governor's office in recent times purportedly to fine-tune the machinations of ensuring victory for the most unpopular aspirant in the party in the Governorship primary and the Caretaker Chairman has been reportedly been receiving monetary support towards the project. 

All lovers or PDP must rise up to demand a fair and transparent Congress that will lead to a fair and transparent primary if we're are serious about winning Ekiti 2026. The time to speak up is now.

Taiwo Ogunmola, a devoted PDP member, writes from Ijero Ekiti

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‘The BAO Walk’ Initiative Gains Momentum

NaijaPulse 

February 14, 2025 

Walking is not only a simple and effective way to maintain good health, but it is also becoming a movement for progress in Ekiti State.

The ‘The BAO Walk’ initiative, championed by Hon. Bimbo Daramola, is blending fitness with political engagement, encouraging residents to embrace regular walking while showing support for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) and his development agenda.

Health experts recommend walking at least 30 minutes daily to improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, reduce body fat, and boost endurance. 

It is a weight-bearing exercise that reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis, and some cancers. Walking is also a great way to manage stress and enhance mental well-being.

Apart from the fitness campaign, The BAO Walk initiative is also a movement designed to mobilize grassroots support for Governor Oyebanji.

The initiative encourages Ekiti residents to walk for both personal health and collective progress because health is wealth. 

And beyond its health benefits, ‘The BAO Walk’ serves as a platform to interact with residents, discuss government achievements, and reinforce support for BAO’s policies. 

As the initiative is gaining traction across local communities, building unity and civic participation, participants are encouraged to wear comfortable footwear, stay hydrated, and walk in groups for safety. Sun protection and proper warm-up routines are also advised to prevent injuries.

While walking is generally safe, individuals over 40, those with health conditions, or those who have been inactive for long periods should consult a doctor before joining the walks.

'The BAO Walk' initiative is setting a new trend in Ekiti, combining health, fitness, and political engagement. As residents walk for their well-being, they also walk for progress, ensuring continued support for Governor Oyebanji’s vision of a better and healthier Ekiti State.

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Oyebanji Has Done Well: Kayode Ojo Commends Ekiti Airport

NaijaPulse 

Former APC governorship aspirant, Engineer Kayode Ojo, has praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji for the successful execution of the Ekiti State Airport project, describing it as “money well spent.”

Speaking after taking his first flight from the airport, Ojo acknowledged the project’s economic significance and the vision behind it.

“This is a good project, one of the landmark initiatives the state needs to embark on,” he said.

He also revealed discussions with former Governor Niyi Adebayo on ways to support air travel in Ekiti.

“I was having a conversation with Otunba Niyi Adebayo about this airport, and he suggested that maybe a few of us who have the privilege can come together, buy aircraft, and lease them to airlines. That way, we can have discounted flights for Ekiti people,” he said.

Asked if he fully supported the project, Ojo responded, “Absolutely, 100 percent.”

His remarks reinforce the strides being made under Oyebanji’s leadership. Even within the APC, members acknowledge the administration’s achievements. If a potential challenger in 2026 can admit progress, why change a performing government?

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The Futility of Kayode Ojo’s Pursuit Against Governor Oyebanji

Debola Akingbade 

The APC governorship primary election that produced Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) as the party’s candidate on January 27, 2022, was a defining moment in Ekiti politics.

Conducted through the direct primary system, it saw Oyebanji emerge victorious with 101,703 votes, a process which included the now barking, Kayode Ojo. 

Dissatisfied, Ojo pursued legal action, seeking to overturn Oyebanji’s victory. However, his efforts did not alter the course of history, Oyebanji not only secured the APC ticket but went on to win the June 18, 2022, governorship election resoundingly, earning the overwhelming support of the people.

If Kayode Ojo could not stop Oyebanji in 2022 when he was not yet in power, how does he intend to achieve that now that Governor Oyebanji enjoys the power of incumbency, the endorsement of critical stakeholders, the backing of the Presidency, and most importantly, the support of the Masses? 

Beyond institutional support, Governor Oyebanji’s unimaginable connection with the people makes any opposition effort a mere shadow chase. He does not only enjoy the backing of political elites; he is deeply rooted in the hearts of the people, whose lives he has positively impacted through meaningful and laudable achievements.

The support for Governor Oyebanji transcends political affiliations, his leadership has earned him the loyalty of civil servants who appreciate his commitment to their welfare. The Teachers who benefit from his education-focused policies. The Artisans and traders whose businesses thrive under a stable economic environment. The general populace who witness the tangible progress across various sectors.

Governor Oyebanji is a leader and movement, driven by performance, people-oriented policies, and absolute dedication to progress. His re-election is not a matter of struggle, it is a natural course of continuity, endorsed by those who truly matter: the people of Ekiti State.

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BAO, WhatsApp Opposition, and 2026

The future belongs to God, but as stewards of the present, we shape the outcome of tomorrow. In Ekiti State, it has become abundantly clear that the 2026 gubernatorial election will not be a contest but an affirmation of the exceptional leadership and governance of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO).

As an ardent supporter of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), who has been deeply supporting the party since its inception, it is appalling to see what the party has become today. The party has now inexplicably been reduced to a mere carcass of the once-robust party with glorious memories and a proud history.

A party that once prided itself on being the largest in Africa. A party that produced three presidents and ruled Nigeria for 16 years. A party that was once the darling of the people at the state level. Today, we are nothing more than a shadow of those illustrious times.

Many factors have contributed to the party’s decline, and Nigerians are fully aware of the reasons for our loss of radiance and purpose.

What happened at the national level is reflected here in Ekiti. Selfishness, greed, indiscipline, and infighting for the soul of the party have all compounded the PDP’s downfall. The party in Ekiti is as good as dead.

In their futile attempt to revive it, the national leadership of the PDP ended up sealing its fate by appointing a caretaker committee led by an Ibadan NURTW boss. 

And, true to form, this man ensured the party’s final burial by alienating former Governor Ayo Fayose, the rallying point of the party in Ekiti. This, my friends, is why I said the PDP is dead in the state.

Even more troubling is the quality of aspirants the PDP has put forward for 2026. Two individuals have so far shown interest, and neither inspires trust or confidence.

One of them was disqualified in the 2013 party primary because he couldn’t provide the NYSC discharge certificate he claimed to have.

The other, in a shocking display of inconsistency, declared after the 2022 governorship election that he regretted contesting and vowed never to run for office again in Nigeria.

These are the choices raising up their heads in the PDP for 2026 election. A party that once prided itself on producing credible leaders is now plagued by aspirants with questionable credibility and track records.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14tDbCv5Kx/

As these internal squabbles rage on in the opposition camp, the Ekiti APC has been dazzling, radiating with full strength. Governor Oyebanji, a political scientist with an acute understanding of the political landscape, has become a beacon of excellence.

His stupendous performance, inclusive governance, welfare packages, and political ideology have set a new standard, earning him admiration across the state.

Governor Oyebanji’s performance and style of governance have made it near impossible for any right-thinking Ekiti citizen to find fault with him. His administration has already transformed the state and continues to improve the lives of Ekiti citizens. 

The endorsement for his second term is not just inevitable, it’s unanimous. Even those within the PDP, those of us who passionately love Ekiti's development, know that you don’t replace a head coach who’s winning.

Those of us still in the PDP know the writing is on the wall, Governor Oyebanji is destined for a resounding second term victory in 2026. And make no mistake, his victory will come with an unprecedented margin, one that will make history in Ekiti.

It’s not rocket science, it’s basic political calculation. In 2022, Governor Oyebanji trounced a formidable PDP, leaving them a distant third. Now that the PDP is in worse shape, divided, visionless, and riddled with internal strife, it’s hard to imagine how they could pose a serious challenge.

In ekPDP, we know that the Ekiti civil servants, whose welfare has been Governor Oyebanji’s priority, will never turn their backs on him.

We know the retirees, whose families and communities are directly impacted by his leadership, will continue to support him.

We know the local contractors who see him as their messiah will never join forces with us to pull him down. And the list goes on. 

Some of us, without political mischief, have aligned with the will of the people, but others still believe their WhatsApp rants can resurrect a dead party.

Like a dying horse throwing its last, futile kick, these WhatsApp agitators are throwing all decorum into the wind. They have nothing meaningful to offer as opposition because, in all honesty, there’s nothing left to oppose.

For Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, the 2026 election is not a contest; it’s an affirmation of his leadership and progress. From those of us in the PDP who still love our state and appreciate the work being done, we wish the people’s governor the best as he continues his journey until 2030.

Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has set a course for progress, and the people are ready to affirm his mandate. The future belongs to those who plan, act, and deliver, and in Ekiti, the choice is already made, because as you lay your bed, so you shall lie on it. 

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Kidnapping of PDP Chieftain's Brother Exposes Deepening Insecurity in Ekiti

The Okemesi/Ido Ile axis of Ekiti State is grappling with a disturbing wave of insecurity following the kidnapping of Mr. Adeleye Ola, brother of Hon. Abraham Olusegun Adeleye, the 2023 PDP candidate for House of Assembly Ekiti West Constituency 2.

Sources suggest the kidnapping may be linked to the aftermath of the March 2023 election. The family spokesman, Mr. Olaleye Sunday, revealed that their lives are under perpetual threat due to Hon. Adeleye's opposition to the ruling party. "Our lives are in perpetual threat because of my brother's stand against the ruling party," he said, adding that Hon. Adeleye lives in constant fear of attack while in exile.

The insecurity has crippled economic activities in the community. Travelers are avoiding the region, business activities have plummeted, and the population has decreased as people seek safer areas. Local businesses are struggling to survive, and the economic situation is dire.

The Chairman of Okemesi/Ido-Ile Local Council Development Area, Hon. Ajibade Sunday Owolabi, has ordered security agencies to intensify efforts to clear out criminals and kidnappers. Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has expressed concern and urged collaboration to end crimes in the area.

This incident is part of a broader security crisis in Nigeria's rural areas. Former Governor Peter Obi has warned that "no one is currently spared from the dangerous wind of many kidnappings and killings blowing through many parts of the nation." The situation demands collective action to address the root causes of insecurity and ensure the safe return of those held captive.

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