Adebayo Adenrele
The Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibril has drummed support for the Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji over his immense efforts particularly in infrastructure and social transformation, as the state prepares for 2026 gubernatorial election.
Speaking with journalists in Iyin-Ekiti over the weekend after being conferred with the Chieftaincy title of Agba Akin of Iyin Kingdom, Jibril commended the giant strides of the State Governor particularly in infrastructure and social transformation.
He praised the governor over his administration’s massive and impressive transformation across the state which has impacted lives of the residents positively.
Vanguard reports that the ancient town of Iyin-Ekiti came alive at the weekend as eminent Nigerians converged to celebrate the 2025 Iyin Day and the 5th Coronation Anniversary of the Oluyin of Iyin Kingdom, Oba Adeola Ajakaye, with a resounding message of unity, development and community-driven progress.
Among those who graced the colourful ceremony were the the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele who bagged the Chieftaincy title of Olu-omo of Iyin Kingdom, former Governor of Ekiti State, Niyi Adebayo as Asiwaju of Iyin Kingdom, Senator Tunde Igbinsagba as Aare Bobajiroro of Iyin Kingdom, the Lawmaker representing Ogun West and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation, Senator Solomon Adeola popularly known as Yayi, among others
The Deputy Senate President urged the people of Ekiti State to continue supporting the current political administration under the leadership of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
He also lauded Oba Ajakaye for organizing what he called mini-Nigeria, noting that the event showcased the nation’s cultural diversity and unity.
His words, “He’s doing very well in transforming the state. We’ve seen the road that we passed through to the event we attended, well constructed and in excellent condition. I was here a few months ago, but I’ve seen a lot of new developments that weren’t there at that time. The governor is doing a wonderful job. The transformation is massive and very impressive.
“Besides that, at the event we attended, I must commend the Kabiyesi because, as I said, it was like a mini-Nigeria, every tribe was represented: the Hausas, the Igbos, the Itsekiris, the Urhobos and many others. Almost all ethnic groups were present.
“And this is exactly what we want in this country, events that promote unity, encourage us to visit one another, and strengthen our sense of nationhood. Beyond that, the ceremony itself was a huge and impressive tourist attraction. It beautifully showcased our heritage and tradition, very colourful and symbolic.
“So, I commend the Kabiyesi and the people who made it possible. It was a reflection of Nigeria’s unity in diversity and that is what we need to keep encouraging. Everyone should feel at home wherever they find themselves in this country. I also commend the Kabiyesi for sustaining this yearly event and I promise to attend again next year. We truly enjoyed our time in the state.
“My message is simple vote for the governor. He has done very well and continues to deliver impressive results. As I mentioned, I was here several months ago and I can see tremendous improvements. Look at the roads brand new, well-constructed and durable. There are so many other structures coming up; it’s almost like a construction site everywhere you turn.
*What more could anyone ask for? The essence of leadership is to provide for the people, bring prosperity and drive development and that’s exactly what he’s doing.
“The federal government is also supporting the sub-nationals. Look at the new university, the University of Iyin which Senate Leader has brought here, as well as the new police station that has been approved. Ekiti is lucky, very lucky. From the centre to the state, both levels of government are working hand-in-hand for the progress of the people. So, I say: vote APC all the way”.
Addressing the gathering, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele described the Chieftaincy title as a challenge and a chance to contribute more to the growth and development of the town.
Bamidele, representing Ekiti Central Senatorial District promised to further contribute his quota to the advancement of Iyin-Ekiti.
On his part, Senator Yayi congratulated the people of Iyin-Ekiti on what he called an epic and historic celebration.
He further commended the Senate Leader and Senator representing Ekiti Central, Opeyemi Bamidele, for his tireless commitment to community advancement and grassroots empowerment.
In his address, the Oluyin of Iyin Kingdom, Oba Adeola Ajakaye highlighted a series of remarkable achievements recorded in recent years, ranging from infrastructural renewal to advancements in education and healthcare.
He noted that the Iyin Palace has undergone a complete facelift with the construction of a magnificent new palace gate, an ultra-modern Market and other essential facilities that have restored both the cultural pride and administrative efficiency of the traditional institution.
The Oluyin further disclosed that electricity supply in the community has significantly improved through the installation of prepaid meters, ensuring greater efficiency and accountability.
In healthcare, he said the Town has sustained annual medical outreaches and free eye surgeries over the past five years.
Oba Ajakaye also commended the establishment of the Federal University of Technology and Environmental Sciences in Iyin-Ekiti, which he said embodies President Bola Tinubu’s deep commitment to education.
“The palace has undergone a much-desired transformation, with the construction of a magnificent palace gate an ultra-modern Market and other essential facilities. Electricity supply has also improved through the prepaid meters, ensuring greater efficiency and reliability.
“In the area of healthcare, we have recorded significant progress, including annual medical outreaches and free eye surgeries over the past five years. These interventions reflect our belief that health and the well-being of our remain our top priorities.
“Education has always been the foundation of our greatness. Accordingly, we have sustained a strong educational support system through scholarship awards and academic competitions, such as essay writing and quiz contests during community celebrations”. He added
