OLURIN INCREASES WORKERS SALARY IN EKITI (28/11/2006) Administrator of Ekiti State, Brigadier-General Adetunji Idowu Olurin (rtd) has approved an increase in the salary of workers in the State Public Service. The increase which takes effect from December 1, 2006, is in fulfillment of the promise made by the Administrator during his maiden meeting with civil servants last October and his familiarization tour of local governments in the State earlier this month. As approved by the Administrator, workers in the State would as from December 2006 enjoy 45percent increase in rent allowance and 50 percent increase in transport allowance, while the basic salary remains the same. The minimum wage to be paid monthly by the State and Local Government is now N7,500.00. Following the assurance given the workers by General Olurin, a panel was constituted to look into the matter expeditiously on November 8, with the mandate to submit its report within two weeks. The committee submitted its report on Wednesday November 22, 2006 with its recommendations. Taking cognizance of other compelling needs in the face of limited funds, the Administrator expressed optimism that the workers would appreciate the gesture by being more dedicated and productive. The increase in salary is expected to increase the State’s monthly wage bill by N44 million Naira. OLURIN TO ENSURE SUCCESSFUL VOTERS REGISTRATION IN EKIT(28/11/2006) Ekiti State Government is taking urgent steps to ensure that the ongoing voters registration exercise is successful in spite of the initial hiccups. To this end, Ekiti state Administrator, Brigadier-General Adetunji Olurin had held a meeting with the Ekiti State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Gabriel Okafor, Local Government Chairmen, the Permanent Secretary of the State Ministry of Information and General Manager of Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State(BSEC) on ways of ensuring that all eligible voters in the State are registered. The Administrator charge the state ministry of Information and the Management of the (BSES) to provide adequate publicity for the voters registration exercise. While directing Local Government Councils in the State to provide logistic support to INEC on the exercise, Administrator Olurin also said Traditional Rulers in the State would be involved in mobilizing their subjects for the exercise. He urged the people of the state to exercise patience as INEC has assured that more registration machines are on the way to the state.Also speaking, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Ekiti State, Dr. Gabriel Okafor assured the people of the state that more registration machine would start arriving the state from the weekend, disclosing that INEC was not merging electoral units as being speculated by some quarters. Earlier, the 16 Local Government Chairmen pledged support for INEC in the registration Exercise. POVERTY ERADICATION: OLURIN TO PARTNER WITH NAPEP (27/11/2006) Official launch of the second phase of the Multi- Partner Micro- Credit Finance (MP-MF) scheme of the National Poverty Eradication Project (NAPEP) by the Ekiti Sate administrator, Brigadier- General Adetunji Olurin took place in Ado-Ekiti on 23/11/06. In his speech, the national coordinator of NAPEP, Dr. Magnus kapkol sought for a collaborative effort to eradicate poverty in the country. The national coordinator admitted that poverty war could be fought by all and sundry and maintained that NAPEP would do all it could to see that is reduced. “NAPEP was established by the federal government in 2001 as a demonstration of the Obasanjo administration’s seriousness to make life better for the populace”. In his address, Brig. Olurin praised the FG for working round the clock to see that poverty becomes a thing of the past in the country and assured that Ekiti State will not relent in partnering with the agency to eradicate poverty in the state. The administrator further stated that the loans would go a long way in empowering farmers, market women and small-scale industrialists advising them to take advantage of the loans to do something tangible. EKSG RELEASES N19M TO NURSING & MIDWIFERY SCHOOLS (28/11/2006) Ekiti State Government has released over N19million Naira to improve facilities at the School’s of Nursing and Midwifery, Ado – Ekiti. The State Administrator, Brig.-General Adetunji Olurin (rtd) who disclosed this during his visit to the Ministry of Health promised that government would also procure a 30-seater bus for each of the three health institutions in the State. General Olurin promised that budgetary allocation to the health sector will henceforth be released in full to enable it develop effective, efficient, affordable and equitable health care services and to promote the social and economic well being of the people. He added that his administration will henceforth release all counterpart funding to development partners to enable the state access the necessary assistance from them and stressed that government will give priority to training of health workers to enable them perform their duties effectively. General Olurin said government is already looking into ways of improving the welfare of staff by increasing their salaries of which health workers are among. He charged health workers in the State to be more dedicated and alive to their responsibilities of providing improved health care services to the people. OLURIN TO GIVE STATE HOSPITALS FACELIFT (28/11/2006) The Ekiti State Administrator,, Brig-General Adetunji Ilurin (rtd) said all the government owned hospitals in the state would be given a facelift in next year’s budget. The Administrator who stated this during his unscheduled visit to the State Specialist Hospital in Ado-Ekiti added that the Federal Government has assured solution to epileptic power supply stressing that work is going on, at the Ero Dam in Ikun to ease water shortage in the state. The State Administrator stated that the government will see to the encroachment of government lands around the hospitals in the State and stressed that the road, which linked the Board to the Doctor’s Quarter, would be catered for through ECROMA. PAY UP YOUR DEBT- OLURIN(28/11/2006)Ekiti State Administrator Brigadier- General Adetunji Olurin (Rtd) has charged members of the Road Transport Association who benefited from the buses provided under the Government Assisted Mass Transit Programme to adhere to the conditions of the loan repayment. General Olurin who gave the charge in Ado Ekiti while addressing Senior Staff of the Ministry of Finance and Budget, stressed the need for the beneficiaries to repay the loans in order to enable others benefit from the scheme. The Administrator warned that the buses would be withdrawn from beneficiaries who fail to pay loans within stipulated period and be given to those that would not default. He also called on civil servants in the State to work assiduously towards enhancing government’s development efforts. OLURIN BAGS UNIVERSITY CHANCELLOR (26/11/2006)The State Administrator, Brigadier General Adetunji Olurin is to be formally decorated as the pioneer chancellor of the Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijebu Ode during the Institution’s next convocation ceremony coming up later this month. The pro-chancellor and chairman of the governing council of the University, Professor Yenusa Oyeneye made this known when he and the management team of the Institution paid a courtesy visit to the State Administrator in his office in Ado Ekiti.Professor Oyeneye who congratulated Olurin on his recent appointment as Administrator of the state charged him to use the experience generated over the years as military governor of old Oyo State and ECOMOG field commander to bring the much needed development to the state.“You are not new in this job. You made your mark when you were military governor of old Oyo State and field commander of ECOMOG. We are confident that you are going to make a huge success out of your new assignment”, the pro-chancellor said.Responding, the administrator commended the Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel for his foresight in establishing the University. He described the pioneer University of Education as a positive experiment that was taking firm root in the development of Education in Nigeria.General Olurin said though his present assignment as administrator of the state requires a lot of time and attention, he would always create time to attend to matters relating to the University. Having pledged to contribute his quota to the development of the ivory tower to international standards. Olurin also promised to attend the institution’s next convocation coming up 28th of this month as his first official outing outside the state.The Tai Solarin university of Education Ijebu Ode was established on January 29, 2005 and was officially registered as a full-fledged University of Education by the National Universities commission on November 28, 2005. EKITI GET NEW SSG & AGCJ (21/11/2006)The Ekiti State Administrator, Brig.-Gen. Adetunji Olurin has sworn in the new Secretary to the State Government and the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice with a charge to the new appointees to be politically neutral and defend the Constitution and the Rule of Law. The new state officials sworn in were Chief Mrs. Abike Sonoiki who is the new SSG while the new Attorney-General is Mr. Gboyega Oyewole. At the swearing-in ceremony, which took place at the Conference Hall of the old Governor's Office, Administrator Olurin said the appointment of the two senior government officials was done to ensure the smooth running of government describing the two offices as crucial to the effective service delivery of his administration.Olurin who also noted that the competence of the new appointees is not in doubt describe the new justice commissioner's appointment as a "recognition of the youth" in the state adding both of them are not engaged in partisan politics and their experience both in public and private sectors would be needed by his administration. "You are welcome on board as we run this vision of total restoration of peace and order in the state relentlessly. You must strive to ensure total reconciliation by persuading all stakeholders in the state to embrace the spirit of forgiveness. You should also promote democratic values, transparency, accountability, social justice, love, good neighbourliness, equity, respect for elders, respect for one another and good governance.” Olurin charged He also used the opportunity to thank the people of the state for their wide acceptance of the emergency rule under his leadership and the rousing welcome accorded President Olusegun Obasanjo during his recent visit to the state. Olurin further stated that he welcomes suggestions on how the state can move forward during the emergency rule assuring that his doors are wide open for useful suggestions at all times. Responding on behalf of the new appointees, Chief Mrs. Sonoiki described their appointment as a call to service, which came at a crucial time in the history of the state. According to her, they are ready to serve the state with faithfulness, honesty and sincerity of purpose and pledged their loyalty and support to the administrator and appealed to civil servants for cooperation and understanding in a bid to move Ekiti forward. OLURIN TO PROMOTE SPORTS IN EKITI (17/11/2006)The Administrator of Ekiti State, Brigadier General Adetunji Olurin says the State Government is to set up a football club that would adequately represent it in major football competitions. The Administrator who made this known in Ado-Ekiti while presenting a 55-seater luxury bus to the State Sports Council also said his administration would adequately promote sports in the State. He said sports were particularly good for the young ones as it keeps them away from crimes and other vices.Gen. Olurin said the presentation of the luxury bus to the State Sports Council was one of the incentives that he intends to use to elevate sports in the State. He said his administration would work assiduously to ensure that the State gets its fair share of the glory that other States of the Federation were presently enjoying in sports today.Responding, the State Director of Sports, Mr. Kunle Falodun expressed appreciation to the Administrator for the gesture. MONARCH CALLS FOR PARTICIPATION IN VOTERS REGISTRATION (16/11/2006) The Onisin of Isinbode-Ekiti, Oba Adesoji Akinyemi has called on the people of Ekiti East LGA to participate en-masse in the on-going Voters Registration exercise in the State. The Monarch made the call during a press chat in his palace while advising politicians to play the game according to laid down rules and regulation by the Constitution. Oba Akinyemi who called on parents to caution their children not to be used as political thugs urged politicians not to use abusive words against each other during campaigns but to intimate the electorate on their manifestoes. UTILISE YOUR KNOWLEDGE-OBASANJO CHARGED EKITI PEOPLE(14/11/2006)President Olusegun Obasanjo has charged the people of Ekiti State to rise up and utilise their knowledge for the development of their State. The President made the appeal during an interactive session with the people of the State on the second day of his visit at Bishop Adetiloye Hall, Trade Fair Complex in Ado-EkitiThe president who attributed the poverty and backwardness of African countries and, indeed Nigeria, to the inability of the people to do the right thing at the right time, pointed out all these in his reaction to the address of the State Administrator, Brig. Gen. Tunji Olurin on the poverty in the State. Earlier, Administrator Olurin had told President Obasanjo that there “is palpable poverty in Ekiti State and the prognosis is not particularly exciting because of the lack of policy and practical initiatives for empowerment and poverty eradication.” He noted that in the whole of the state there is no single industry except the UAC Spring Water Bottling Company at Ikogosi, adding that “farming for which the people are known has not developed above the primitive stage”. But, President Obasanjo insisted that the people should look around their environment and exploit it for their own benefit. He further cited South Korea as an example of a country, which was at par with Nigeria at independence, but is now a generation ahead of us pointing out that the secret of their success was the ability to do the right thing at the right time. Speaking on the moribund Ado-Ekiti Textile Mills, the president affirmed that it died because it was wrongly established, saying if the company had been established in an area close to its raw material, the company would have continued to be in operation. He, however, said that any African country that got its bearing right and was doing the right thing in the best interest of its people, though initially might have to contend with opposition from the advanced countries, would eventually scale through the difficulties if it succeeded in what it had done.The President appealed to Gen. Olurin to do a follow-up on the ongoing 132KVA power station sited in the State if he wanted the power supply to be completed during his short tenure and charged people to cooperate with the administrator to achieve success during his tenure in the state. The occasion was attended by the Ogun State Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, the Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Agagu, Oyo State Governor Chief Adebayo Alao-Akala, others included Hon. Babalola Borisade, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) and other eminent sons and daughters of Ekiti State. OBASANJO APPROVES COMPLETION OF 132 KVA (14/11/2006) The President and commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has approved money for the completion of the 132 KVA electricity generating plant for the State. Chief Obasanjo said this while holding a meeting with eminent Ekiti sons and daughters at the Arch Bishop Abiodun Adetiloye Hall in Ado – Ekiti. The President who noted that electricity was part of essential ingredients for economic development enjoined the Administration to do a follow up with a view to completing the project on time. DO NOT ALLOW CHARLATANS TO TAKE OVER POWER - OBASANJO (10/11/2006)The President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo (GCFR) has urged all the disgruntled leaders in Ekiti State to sheath their sword and urged them not to allow charlatan to take over power in the State because according to him “We have been beaten once and we have to watch this time around.” Chief Obasanjo made this pronouncement at the palace of the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe on the eve of his arrival in the State while speaking to the Ewi-in-council and the mammoth crowd that came to the palace to welcome him, Obasanjo appealed to the monarch to forget the past about everything done against him by Mr. Ayo Fayose.The President who expressed his appreciation to the royal father and the people of the State for their patience and endurance during the turbulent period in the State, thanked them for receiving Adetunji Olurin who was sent to the State to maintain peace and described the Sole Administrator as a well brought up and disciplined person who respects the norms and the law of his land. Obasanjo further thanked all the South West governors for their positive role in making peace to reign in the State and charged them to learn from the lesson of Ekiti State.Speaking earlier, the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, commended President Olusegun Obasanjo for acting promptly when anarchy was looming in the State and prayed that God would always deliver him from danger.The Royal father said" We were about to have three governors in Ekiti State but with God and your wisdom, we were delivered from anarchy and chaos. We thank God we did not witness calamity in the land."The monarch thanked the leaders for their role in settling the matter particularly Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola and Senator Yinka Omilani who he said personally visited his palace over the matter on a number of occasions.Speaking on the new administrator, Ewi describe him as a listening type and added that he is a right person to be chosen during the time. "He is the right peg in the right hole. " In the president’s entourage are the South West Governors; Otunba Gbenga Daniel, Dr Olusegun Agagu, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola and Otunba Alao Akala. Others are the South West National Vice Chairman of PDP, Senator Yinka Omilani and some members of the Federal Executive Council. EKSG RELEASES STATUTORY ALLOCATION TO LGS (07/11/2006)Ekiti State Administrator, Brig-Gen Adetunji Olurin says the State Government has released the Statutory Allocation to the 16 Local Government Councils in the State for the month of October, 2006 in full. He said the state government had also released 10 percent Internally Generated Revenue and the entire amount allocated to councils from the excess crude accounts to 16 councils in the state. The Administrator made these known during his familiarization visit to Efon, Ijero, Ekiti West, Ido/Osi and Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Governments of the state. He charged the Council Chairmen to take advantage of the increased funding, to give a new lease of life to the people at the grassroots who are in need of development. The Administrator said in order to prevent wastage of council funds on frivolous projects, Council Chairmen must consult Traditional Rulers as well as opinion and Community Leaders before embarking on any new project. He added that Traditional Rulers and other Leaders in the Local Councils would also be involved in the monitoring and supervision of local government projects in their areas. Gen. Olurin who described peace as an important ingredient for development recalled the political developments that prompted the President to declare an emergency Rule in the state in October, 2006. He expressed happiness that the anxiety, fear, uncertainty and tension that pervaded the state before the declaration of a State of Emergency in the state had changed as all was now well in the state. He said the President would visit the state this week to assess the political situation, hold consultations and interactive sessions with the people of the state. The Administrator who said he had set up a committee to review the salaries of Civil Servants and other workers in the State Public Service also stressed the need for Council Chairmen to ensure that council staffs were properly trained to improve their efficiency.The poor state of infrastructure, cases of uncompleted and abandoned projects were among issues brought to the fore during the interactive session. Other issues raised include the problem of erosion at Efon Alaaye, poor supply of water, electricity as well as the deplorable condition of state and federal roads across the state. Click here for Pics EKSG ASSURES SUPPORT TO NEW CP(09/11/2006) The Administrator of Ekiti State, Brig-Gen. Adetunji Olurin has assured the new commissioner of Police, Mrs. Tinuke Koyi that the State Government would continue to support the Ekiti State Police Command in the task of maintaing law and order in the State. General Olurin who gave the assurance while playing host to the new Police Commissioner in Ado-Ekiti charged her to build on the successes recorded by her predecessor, Mrs. Uche Okoronkwo and to ensure that the good working relationship between the government and the State Police Command continues. Gen. Olurin assured the Police Commissioner that the State Government was ready to work closely with the State Command to ensure safety of lives and properties of the people. Earlier, the New Commissioner of Police, Mrs. Tinuke Koyi solicited the support of the State Government to enable her succeed in her new assignment. Mrs. Koyi who is a trained lawyer was until her appointment an officer in Zone 2 Lagos. PAVE WAY FOR PEACE, OLURIN ADVISES TRANSPORT UNIONS (07/11/2006) The three-transport union in Ekiti State has been advised to resolve their differences amicably in their own interest and that of the people of the state. Ekiti state Administrator Brigadier-General Adetunji Olurin (Rtd) gave the advice on Monday when he met leaders of the unions in his office. He said he was not happy with the information reaching him concerning the misunderstanding among the leadership and member of the unions.Present at the meeting were leaders of the state chapter of the Nigeria Association of Cooperative Transporters (NACT) and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN).The administration urged them to take the message of peace to leaders of the National Union Transport Workers who were absent at the meeting as he would not tolerate the aggresivation of their misunderstanding to public disorder in the State. “The people in the State have had enough disturbances” he stressed.Brigadier-Gen Olurin reminded them that under a State of Emergency, the Administrator has absolute powers, which he had resolved not to apply, but warned that “freedom is precious, don’t pave way to lose it”.Chairmen of the two unions in attendance, Chief Akin Oyebode for NACT, and Deacon Isaac Fatimehin (JP) of the RTEAN thanked the Administrator for his mature disposition and promised to heed his advice towards ensuring peace in the State.The administrator offered to intervene in the resolution of the raging misunderstanding, if the unions so desired, for peace to reign in the State in the interest of all. OLURIN LAUDS OUTGOING CP (07/11/2006)Ekiti State Administrator, Brig-Gen. Adetunji (Rtd), has said the promotion of the outgoing Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, Mrs. Uche Okoronkwo to the rank of Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) of Police was well deserved. Speaking when he granted audience to the outgoing Commissioner of Police in Ado-Ekiti, Gen. Olurin described her promotion as recognition of hard work and perseverance.“Your promotion is a reward for your hard work. You have done your possible best. Even in times of difficulties, you stood firm. I wish you well in your new assignment, the Administrator said”.Responding, AIG Okoronkwo expressed appreciation to the Government and people of the State as well as Officers and Men of the command for their support during her tenure. She said if not for their support she would not have made her mark as the first female officer to head a state command. She disclosed that another Female Commissioner of Police had been posted to replace her in the Ekiti State Command. AIG Okoronkwo is posted to Head zone 7, Abuja. NIGERIAN LEGION CHAIRMAN COMMENDS OBASANJO (01/10/2006)The Chairman of Nigerian Legion in Ekiti State, Col. Richard Ogunboyo (rtd.) has commended President Olusegun Obasanjo for acting decisively by declaring a State of Emergency in the State. The Legion Chairman who gave the commendation in Ado-Ekiti said the political events in the State last couple of weeks could have led to a breakdown of Law and Order. He described Brig. Adetunji Olurin as a round peg in a round hole in his new assignment as the Sole Administrator of the State. The Legion Chairman urged the people in the State to join hands with the Administrator to succeed in his task of taking the State to a greater height.Col. Ogunboyo (Rtd.) also advised members of the political parties to see themselves as one family stressing that they should always respect the interest of the people. The Chairman of Nigerian Legion enjoined the politicians in the State to allow political harmony among members of political parties in the State. Col. Ogunboyo (Rtd.) who appealed to the politicians not to see politics as a do or die affair also advised youths in the State not to allow politicians to use them as political thugs during the forthcoming 2007 General Elections. He also pledged the support of over 8,000 Leion members in Ekiti State to the administration of Brig. Gen. Olurin. OLURIN ADVISES MONARCH (30/10/2006) The Administrator of Ekiti State, Brigadier General Adetunji Olurin (Rtd.) has condoled President Olusegun Obasanjo and the people of Nigeria on the ADC Plane crash which occurred on Sunday killing 96 Passengers including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Maccido. In a statement in Ado-Ekiti, General Olurin (Rtd.) described the sad incident as a colossal loss and national tragedy of monumental proportion. The Administrator said it was most unfortunate that the event happened when the Federal Government had commenced the comprehensive reform programme of the Aviation sector with a view to repositioning the Industry and bringing it to International Standard. He noted that the Federal Government had committed huge resources into the provision of necessary infrastructures at the Nation’s Airports as part of efforts to make air travel safe. He also commiserated with the families of the deceased and prayed God to grant them the fortitude and strength to bear the irreparable loss. In a separate condolence message to the Sokoto State Governor, Alhaji Attahiru Bafarawa, the Administrator expressed shock at the incident, which claimed many lives. General Olurin said in times like this, only Allah could console the families of the deceased. He prayed God to grant the families the strength to bear the great loss. Meanwhile the Ekiti State Administrator has condoled the family of the foremost educationist and Leader of Yoruba Council of Elders, Pa Emmanuel Alayande who died in his residence in Ibadan, Oyo State last Friday.General Olurin described Late Pa Alayande as an honest and light-hearted man that was worthy of emulation. He said that the foremost teacher was a wonderful man who lived to serve humanity. While praying for the repose of the soul of the outstanding educationist, General Olurin prayed to God to grant the family of the deceased the fortitude to bear the loss. OLURIN CONSOLES NIGERIANS(30/10/2006) The Administrator of Ekiti State, Brigadier General Adetunji Olurin (Rtd.) has advised the newly installed Eisa of Ira-Ekiti in Moba Local Government Area, Oba Adeniyi Johnson Adeyinka to always take steps that would ensure the realization of his people’s hopes and aspiration. The Administrator who was represented at the ceremony by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Dr. (Mrs.) Modupe Alade reminded the Royal Father that the Traditional Institution is sacred and therefore, must be protected. He said that the Traditional Ruler must embrace all opinions within the Community to enhance proper development of the Community and its citizens. Gen. Olurin congratulated the Traditional Ruler, being the first in the town to be recognized by the State Government as well as whose appointment was not accompanied with bickering and rancor. The Traditional Ruler, Oba Adeniyi Adeyinka thanked the State Government for recognizing his stool and called his subjects both at home and in the Diaspora to join hands with him in his efforts to develop the Community. WE SHALL COMPLETE ON-GOING PROJECTS – OLURIN(02/11/2006) The Ekiti State Administrator, Brig-Gen. Adetunji Olurin says his administration would complete all on-going projects embarked upon by the previous administrations in the State. Speaking at a meeting with contractors handling state government projects in Ado-Ekiti. Gen. Olurin however said that he would not tolerate badly executed projects that are not done to specification. “Let me assure you that I am preferred to complete all on-going projects in spite of the limitations of available funds. But I want to make it clear that I will not hesitate to terminate any contract that is not properly executed and neither will I accept any job that is not done to specification. I will not allow contractors to cut corners because we cannot afford to waste the state’s resources on frivolous projects”, Administrator Olurin told the contactors at the meeting. General Olurin who frowned at the situation where a single contractor was handling 6 contracts at the same time said it would be difficult for such contractors to cope with the volume of work. He disclosed that following his directive that all illegal deductions in Local Government Funds be stopped some joint projects which hitherto were being funded by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy would now be funded by the concerned local councils.The Administrator charged contractors handling road projects to expedite action on the roads so that they can be complete on schedule. The contractors identified poor funding, slow processing of contract papers and lack of project vehicles as problem facing them. OLURIN BEGINS FAMILIARIZATION TOUR (26/10/2006) His Excellency, the Sole Administrator of Ekiti State Brig-Gen. Adetunji Olurin (Rtd.) has started familiarization tour of the 16 Local Government Areas of Ekiti State starting from Wednesday 25th, October 2006. The tour will afford the Administrator to meet with the Traditional Rulers and the people of the 16 Local Government Areas. The first if the visit takes the Administrator to Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti South West, Ikere, Ise/Orun and Emure Local Government Areas. Today Thursday 26th October, 2006, the Adminisstrator will visit Efon, Ekiti West, Ijero, Ido/Osi and Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Areas. While on Friday 27th October, 2006 Gen. Olurin will visit Gboyin, Ekiti East, Ikole, Oye, Moba and Ilejemeje Local Government Areas. The tour will take the Sole Administrator to palaces of Traditional Rulers in the various Local Government Headquarters and 16 Council Secretariats in the State. STOP ILLEGAL DEDUCTIONS FROM COUNCIL FUNDS; OLURIN ORDERS(26/10/2006) The Ekiti State Administrator, Brig.Gen.Adetunji Idowu Olurin (rtd) yesterday ordered the immediate stoppage of illegal deductions of allocations accruing to all the 16 local governments.Gen Olurin who met all the Council Chairmen and directed the Local Councils to commit at least 60 per cent of their allocations to developmental projects.Council funds were frequently deducted during the administration of the former governor, Dr Ayo Fayose in the name of joint projects between the State and Local Governments.According to the Administrator, he was aware that infrastructural development of the grassroots had been stalled by illegal deductions from the councils’ statutory allocations.Gen.Olurin directed that two strong monitoring units would be set up in the Governor’s Office to ensure fiscal discipline in the 16 Local Governments reminding the Chairmen of their constitutional duties of providing basic amenities to the grassroots. He said that one of the units will monitor Council records of expenditure to prevent financial recklessness of the Council bosses, charging them to embark on capacity building, maintenance of existing public utilities and other people-oriented programmes.Gen. Olurin told the Chairmen to utilise more funds that will now be made available to the Councils with the stoppage of the deductions to execute more projects before the expiration of their tenure. The Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Mr. Toba Adaramola, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, pledged their support and cooperation to the new administration, promising to judiciously use the funds to better the lots of the people at the grassroots. EKITI STATE ADMINISTRATOR DISSOLVES EXECUTIVE COUNCIL(25/10/2006) Following the declaration of a State of Emergency in Ekiti State and the subsequent appointment of a Sole Administrator to administer the State for the next six months, the Sole Administrator, Brigadier General Adetunji Olurin (Rtd.) has dissolved the executive Council of the State. Gen. Olurin who made the dissolution in Ado-Ekiti directed the Permanent Secretaries to take over the functions of the Commissioners and the Special Advisers. He urged the out-going Commissioners and Special Advisers to hand-over all government properties in their care to their respective Permanent Secretaries while the properties in care of the Governor and the deputy Governor should be handed over to the Head of service. He tanked them for the services rendered to the State during their tenure and hoped that they would accept any future responsibilities. Gen. Olurin who charged Civil Servants to be loyal and rededicate themselves to duty warned against indolence and other vices. The Administrator assured Ekiti people that all on-going projects across the State would be completed by his administration stressing that he had a track record of not abandoning projects. He disclosed that a committee would be set up to look into the possibility of upward review of workers salaries in the State. OLURIN SOLICITS PEOPLE’S SUPPORT.(25/10/2006) The Sole Administrator of Ekiti State, Brig. Gen. Adetunji Olurin (RTD) has appealed to Muslims in the State to join hands with him in the quest to bring the much desired development to the State. Administrator Olurin who made the appeal in his special Ed- El- Fitri Goodwill message to the people of the State in Ado- Ekiti urged Muslims to make perseverance, selfless services and righteousness their watchwords in accordance with the teachings of the Holy Prophet Mohammed. While congratulating Muslims for successfully observing the 30-day Ramadan fasting, Gen. Olurin urged them to abstain from sin, which is the main theme of the period. He told Muslims to look beyond the problems, which faced the State in the immediate past stressing that Ekiti was already on the path to greatness. The Administrator who commends Muslims in the State for their peaceful co-existence with members of their religious groups stressed that meaningful development could only take place in a peaceful atmosphere. Gen. Olurin urged Muslim faithful to support the ongoing reforms of the Federal Government and charged them to continue to pray for Ekiti State and Nigeria. He stressed the commitment of his administration to the welfare of the entire people of the State stressing that his main focus was to maintain peace, stability and security of the lives and property as well as to develop the entire length and breath of the State. GEN. OLURIN URGES EKITIS TO PARTICIPATE IN THE VOTERS’ REGISTRATION (26/10/2006) Citizens of Ekiti State who are 18 years old and above have been called upon to turn out enmasse for the Voter’s Registration Exercise. The Sole Administrator, Gen. Adetunji Olurin (Rtd.) made the call after registering at the Government House in Ado-Ekiti yesterday. Gen. Olurin who was registered by staffers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) led by the State Resident Electoral Commissioner for the State, Dr. Gabriel Okafor expressed confidence that the electronic voters register exercise would be immense benefit to the nation. He warned citizens not to engage in multiple registration and other acts that could ultimately lead to their being disqualified y the electronic voter registration machines. Speaking with newsmen, the State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Dr. Gabriel Okafor said the registration exercise, which has commenced in Ekiti State, would take place in 2,195 units across the State. He explained that one electronic voters registration machine would be used to register voters in 4 voting units. Dr. Okafor disclosed that the exercise would last for 40days. EKITI LG BOSSES DECLARE SUPPORT FOR EMERGENCY RULE(25/10/2006)Council Chairmen in Ekiti State said on Monday that they were in support of the declaration of a state of emergency in the state by President Olusegun Obasanjo.The State Chairman of ALGON and Chairman of Irepodun -Ifelodun Local Government Area of the State, Mr. Toba Daramola, said the President saved the State from the shedding of innocent blood that could have been the order of the day if the struggle for control of the apparatus of government by Mr. Ayodele Fayose, his deputy, Chief (Mrs.) Biodun Olujimi and the acting governor, Chief Friday Aderemi, was allowed to continue.Also, former commissioner for Information in Ekiti State, Mr Kayode Otitoju, said the people of Ekiti State were grateful to the President for the action taken to save the State from the political violence that was imminent. OBA LAUDS OBASANJO SWIFT ACTION ON EKITI (25/10/2006)Oba (Dr.) Samuel Adekanmbi Tella lll, the Olu Ilaro & Paramount Ruler of Yawaland has commended President Olusegun Obasanjo for his swift action in nipping in the bud the impending breakdown of law and order in Ekiti State. The monarch made the observation at his palace in Ilaro. He said the appointment of an administrator in such a situation goes a long way in saving the lives and properties of the people of Ekiti.Oba Adekanmbi who has just marked 30 years on the throne noted that he was very optimistic that the new administrator, Brig. Gen. Adetunji Idowu Olurin, an indigene of Ilaro would bring peace back to Ekiti State, judging from his past experience in the Army. Oba Adekanmbi called on his colleagues in Ekiti State to give their unflinching support to Gen. Olurin ”so that they could achieve together the set goals”. In another development, the Muslim communities in Ilaro on Friday offered prayers for Ekiti State and the new administrator so that peace and tranquility would reign in the land. BRIG. GEN. OLURIN (RTD.) BECOMES ADMINISTRATOR OF EKITI STATE (20/10/2006)Following the imposition of a State of Emergency for six months in the first instance, making it the second in the country to be clamped down on the confusion, irregularities, violence and constitutional breakdown in Ekiti State were resolved yesterday. President Olusegun Obasanjo who made this known in a nationwide broadcast early in the morning announced the appointment of Major. Gen. Tunji Olurin as the  Sole Administrator of Ekiti State. The Sole Administrator was immediately sworn in by the President in the Presidential Villa.President Obasanjo defended the imposition of a State of Emergency in Ekiti, saying it was taken in the overall interest of the State and the People and the need to halt the madness going on in Ekiti and strengthens the democratic practice, institutions and values that many Nigerians cherish. By the declaration, he said "the governor and his deputy and those who purported to be acting governors or deputy" as well as the State Lawmakers had ceased to be in charge of the affairs of Ekiti State.The President condemned the handling of the impeachment procedure by the state lawmakers, which led to the state of affairs in the state prior to the declaration of the state of emergency, describing it as unconstitutional. President Olusegun Obasanjo charged the new Administrator to unite the people of Ekiti within the six month.Speaking soon after his swearing in, the new administrator who was a military governor of Oyo State said: “I have a duty to perform and this is not a duty that one performs with joy in one’s heart, but all the same it is a duty that has to be carried out.” The newly appointed Administrator of Ekiti State, Major-General Olurin (Rtd), arrived Ado-Ekiti last night with a pledge that he would be objective in tackling the problems of Ekiti State, which necessitated the declaration of a state of emergency by the Federal Government. He said political activities should continue in the state but with “moderation” and “decency.” COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED BY EKITI STATE TRADITIONAL COUNCIL AT ITS EMERGENCY MEETING OF WEDNESDAY 18TH OCTOBER, 2006 ON THE POLITICAL SITUATION IN EKITI STATE (18/10/2006) Members of Ekiti State Traditional Council held an emergency meeting today 18th October, 2006 on the present political situation in Ekiti State. During the meeting members deliberated extensively on the situation on ground and resolved as follows;1. That the political stakeholders should tread with caution and allow peace to reign in Ekiti State.2. That all Traditional Rulers should endeavour to maintain peace in their various domains.3. That since there are pending cases in respect of the matter in court we should refrain from rumour mongering and allow the law to take its course.4. That the good people of Ekiti State should go into a 3-day fasting and prayer from Thursday 19th October to Sunday 21st October, 2006 for sustenance of peace in Ekiti State5. We appeal to the President and Commander-in- Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo to continue to beef up security in the State.6. We appeal to the good people of Ekiti State to maintain peace and go about their normal businesses without any fear of molestation.We pray that God will see us through this period. (Amen). FAYOSE, OLUJIMI REMOVED, RT. HON. ADEREMI SWORN IN(16/10/2006) The Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, and his Deputy, Mrs. Biodun Olujimi has been removed from Office. The State House of Assembly on Monday, 16th October 2006 endorsed the impeachment of the two chief executives. The Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Friday Aderemi has been sworn in as Governor to function for three months in accordance with the Constitution. Click here for details SUSPENSION OF EKITI CJ: THE CJ AND FAYOSE REACTS (12/10/2006)The Ekiti State Chief Judge, Justice Bamisile has reacted to his suspension by the State House of Assembly citing Section 292 to buttress the fact that it is only the Governor acting in agreement with the two-third of the House that has the power to suspend him. He described his suspension as an "illegality which is not supported by the Constitution".He also described the allegation of the N15 million scandal leveled against him as false, saying the "allegation was coming after how many months?" He denied pocketing the money saying he would never take a kobo from anybody in his life. Justice Bamisile, while reacting to the allegation of involvement in procuring vehicles for panel members, said he could not accommodate them in his residence and was not expected to convey them in his official vehicle. He said he had to take the step because the lawmakers were not around. Besides, he denied knowledge of the amount voted for the operation of the panel members, saying only the Chief Registrar could explain the budget for panel members.On empanelling members who are allegedly government cronies and sympathisers, Justice Bamisile declared his readiness to remove any of them found wanting if people bring convincing proof to him. Justice Bamisile insisted that the House has no authority to query his selection of panel members. He said the House can invite him but "not on issues they don’t have jurisdiction upon". In his reaction to the House resolution that Justice Aladejana should act as the CJ and constitute a fresh panel to investigate the allegations of gross misconduct against Fayose and Olujimi, he said he did not believe "another judge will take that risk". Justice Bamisile noted "there cannot be two captains in the same ship".Meanwhile, Governor Fayose yesterday described the suspension of Justice Bamisile as a "coup, which is no longer fashionable". The Governor, who also described the suspension as a joke, directed Justice Bamisile to continue in office, saying every attempt to remove him would fail. He also likened the move of the lawmakers to that of a "barking dog", saying their suspension of Justice Bamisile is unconstitutional as he (Fayose), remains the only person authorised by the Constitution to remove the Chief Judge.The Governor equally maintained that the CJ is the only person vested with the constitutional powers to set up a panel to investigate his alleged gross misconduct. He urged him not to be afraid as his position as the CJ subsists. Gov. Fayose also appealed to Justice Jide Aladejana whom the Assembly directed to constitute a fresh panel of seven persons not to allow himself to be used by people "who want to desecrate the Constitution". He called on the people of the state and Nigerians to see the Ekiti impeachment drama as a "Liberation War" calling on all he has offended in the course of administering the state to sheathe their swords and forgive him. He also urged the people to be patient and not to fight saying God that liberated the Israelites and made them passed through the Red Sea would see him through his on-going travails. EKITI ASSEMBLY SUSPENDS THE CHIEF JUDGE; APPOINTS ALADEJANA AS ACTING CJ (12/10/2006) The Ekiti State House of Assembly has suspended the State Chief Judge, Justice Kayode Bamisile in a motion passed by members on Wed, 11th Oct. 2006, Justice Aladejana was asked to act in that capacity. The State Accounts were also ordered to be frozen. Click here for details INVESTIGATIVE PANEL SUBMITS REPORT (12/10/2006) The 7man panel set up by the Chief Judge of Ekiti, Justice Kayode Bamisile has submitted its report to the State House of Assembly and absolves the Governor, Dr. Ayodele Fayose and his Deputy, Chief (Mrs.) Biodun Olujimi of all the allegations contained in the impeachment notice. Click here for details EKITI CJ INAUGURATES A 7-MAN PANEL (10/10/06)Ekiti State Chief Judge, Justice Kayode Bamisile has inaugurated a 7-Man Panel of Enquiry to investigate allegations of gross misconduct leveled against the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Ayodele Fayose and his Deputy, Chief (Mrs.) Biodun Olujimi. Speaking during the panel's inauguration in Ado-Ekiti, Justice Bamisile charged the Panel members to perform their duties with utmost honesty and dedication. The Chief Judge who explained that the panel members were carefully chosen on the basis that they were people of proven integrity urged them to be courageous, firm and fearless in the discharge of their duties. He charged members of the panel to exercise their functions according to the laid down rules, particularly section 188 of the Nigeria Constitution. The Chairman of the Panel, Barrister Remi Bamigboye who responded on behalf of the panel members, assured the people of the State hat Justice and fair play shall be the watchwords of the Pane Chairman of the panel to probe graft charges against Governor Ayo Fayose, Mr. Remi Bamigboye (left), members: Chief Olu Alade, Mr. Alli Apanisile, Mr. Segun Adisa, Mr. Segun Da Silva, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Olukogbon, Mr. Segun Adesuyi and Pastor Solomon Ajisafe, during the inauguration of the committee at the State's High Court 1, Ado-Ekiti.
FAYOSE REPLIES THE IMPEACHMENT NOTICE(09/10/06)  Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State (right)
presenting the reply to the impeachment notice to Mr. Tunde Famoyegun, Deputy Clerk of Ekiti State House of Assembly on Monday 9/10/06. With him is Chief (Mrs.) Biodun Olujimi (second right), Deputy Gov. of Ekiti State. Click here for details
EKSG PURCHASES FIVE BUSES FOR BOARD (06/10/06) Ekiti State Government has purchased five buses for the Board of Internal Revenue as part of efforts to increase the Internally Generated Revenue. The Commissioner for Finance and Budget, Chief Toyin Ojo made this known during the quarterly meeting with Treasury Cash Officers and Revenue Collectors in Ado-Ekiti. Chief Ojo explained that the renovation of offices for Treasury Cash Officers and Revenue Collectors across the state was also in the pipeline allowances have been approved to motivate them towards better performance. He urged the officers to reciprocate government’s gesture by putting in their best at ensuring continuous increase in the IGR to the coffers of the State for the benefit of all. Delivering a lecture entitled “Auditing in the private sector”, Dr. Wale Awe, said public sector audit has an important role to play in safeguarding public resources and ensuring proper accountability. The lecture is to make provision for capacity building as it affords participants the opportunity of proffering solutions to problems emerging from the discharge of their duties. FAYOSE LAUDS TEACHERS (06/10/06) The Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Ayodele Fayose, has appreciated the role of Teachers in the socio-economic development of the Country. Governor Ayodele Fayose made the remark during the 2006 Teachers Day Celebrations held at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado-Ekiti. He commended teachers in the State for their contributions to the transformation that had taken place in the educational sector since he became Governor in 2003 and urged them to improve on their performances. The Governor disclosed that the State Government is to review upwards the salaries of Teachers and Civil Servant in the State Public Service with effect from December this year assuring that the welfare of workers would continue to be given top priority by his administration. Dr. Fayose said the large turnout of teachers at the event was a clear indication that teachers in the State were still solidly behind his administration in spite of the plot to impeach him by the House of Assembly. The Governor said he was hoping on God to solve the present problems facing him because he never touched idolatry since he became Governor of the State. Earlier, in his address, the State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUJ), Comrade Joseph Arogundade said Teachers in the State would forever be grateful to Governor Fayose for turning around their fortunes with his people-oriented policies. Highlight of the occasion was the presentation of two Mazda 626 Saloon Cars to Mr. Solomon Oni from Orin-Odo Grammar School, Ikole Local Government as the best Secondary School Teachers in the State and Miss. Funke Emily Durojaiye from Ido/Osi Local Government Area who emerged as the best Primary School Teachers. DON’T SET EKITI ON FIRE - FAYOSE (05/10/06) Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti State, on Thursday, told members of the State House of Assembly not to set the State on fire through the subversion of the constitutional process. Besides, the Governor also attributed his current travails to his humble background and the fact that he had no godfather within the political circle. The lawmakers were said to have sneaked into Ado-Ekiti, the state capital on Thursday while the Governor was addressing the Teachers who thronged the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium for the World Teachers Day, and sat for few minutes during which they reportedly mandated the Chief Judge, Justice Kayode Bamisile to constitute a panel, after which they hurriedly left the state for their unknown destination. But Governor Fayose, while addressing the Teachers, reminded the legislators of the due process on the impeachment of a governor. If they are going to remove a governor, there is a due process. The due process says you must give me fourteen (14) days after serving the notice of impeachment. The notice had just been served me two days ago (Tuesday).”He decried the desperation and the calculated attempt of the lawmakers to forcefully remove him against the wishes of the ordinary people of the state and the spirit and letter of the Constitution. “What is not right is not right. I have just been told that any minute from now, the House will remove the Governor illegally. The lawmakers should tread softly. They should not set the state on fire. They should not cause chaos in view of their calculated attempt to set themselves against the people they are representing.” The Governor expressed his strong faith in God to see him these trying times, saying “God will not allow them. The spirit of the innocent people, the Teachers, the Workers, Artisans, Market Women who had been suffering before I came will not allow them. All the good things that God has used me to do in this State will frustrate their evil counsel.” Fayose said he has been having all these problems from day one of his government owing to the circumstances of his emergence as governor and the fact that he had no big names behind him. “Because I don’t have all the big names of this world behind me; because I am from a humble background and they don’t know how God managed to put me there in 2003, they have continued to wage war on my governmentsince I came. But God will have mercy on me,” he said.He commended the Teachers for their large turn-out which, according to him, was a demonstration of their support for his administration. Idowu AdelusiChief Press Secretary5th October, 2006 EKITI LG COUNCILLORS CONDEMNS IMPEACHMENT (04/10/06) Councilors in Ekiti State have dissociated themselves from impeachment moves of some members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly against Governor Ayodele Fayose and his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Biodun Olujimi. The Councillors made their position known when they paid a solidarity visit on Governor Fayose in Ado-Ekiti. The leader of Ikere Local Government Legislative Arm, Hon Sunday Asana who spoke on behalf of the 177 Councillors in the State said the impeachment move of the Legislators was borne out of greed and personal aggrandizement. He pledged the loyalty and support of the Councillors for the Governor because of the landmark achievement recorded in the State since he assumed office. Responding, Governor Fayose expressed appreciation to the Councillors for identifying with him during this period of difficulties. He urged the Councillors to impress on the Lawmakers to return to the State to continue their statutory duties of law making. Governor Fayose who recalled that he had a good working relationship with the State Legislators in the past said the present problems could be amicably resolved. EKSG REITERATES COMMITMENT TO DEVELOP EKITI STATE (03/10/06)Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Biodun Olujimi has reiterated the determination of the present administration to make the State the best in the country. The Deputy Governor stated this while chatting with pressmen during the 46th Independence Anniversary of Nigeria and 10th Anniversary of the creation of Ekiti State at Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado-Ekiti. Mrs. Olujimi expressed happiness for being part of the developmental team in the State and assured that this administration would continually embark on laudable projects that would reduce the poverty level in the State. She explained that the State is going through a lot of crisis presently and expressed optimism that the State would continue to move forward irrespective of all the oppositions. According to her, Fayose – led administration would not succumb to criticisms but would stand firm in the development of the State. She called the people of the State to live together in peace and assist in building the State. The Anniversary was attended by former Military Administrator of Ekiti State, Navy Captain Atanda Yusuf, Traditional Rulers, representatives from each Local Governments, PDP Leaders, Non-Governmental Organizations and associations across the State. FAYOSE, DEPUTY RECEIVE IMPEACHMENT NOTICE (03/10/06)Governor Ayo Fayose and his deputy, Chief Mrs. Biodun Olujimi has been served with impeachment notice. The impeachment notice signed by the Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon. Friday Aderemi, was received by the Governor today Tuesday 3 October 2006 at 11am. In a Press release, the Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Idowu Adelusi said, “the Governor is prepared to face any panel, we are not moved by any gang-up or conspiracy or by the trump up charges. On our reaction to whether Governor Fayose will resign, we don’t have any comment. However, we hold tenaciously to the word of God, our trust is in God only. Honestly, we are now at the Red Sea, like the Biblical Israelites, we are still, waiting to see the glory of God. Certainly, the evil machinations will fail, and we will laugh last.” “DEMOCRACY IS THE BEST FORM OF GOVERNMENT”- HON. TOBA DARAMOLA(03/10/06) Democracy has been described as the best form of Government the World ever had. The Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Hon Toba Adaramola gave the remark at Igede-Ekiti during the thanksgiving ceremony organized to mark the nation’s 46th independence and a decade of Ekiti State’s existence. According to him, democracy is that which gives room for the entire people to participate in governance therefore making it for better than the military. Hon. Adaramola who further stated that more dividends would be brought to the doorstep of the people urged all and sundry to continue to support the Government. The vicar in charge of the first Baptist Church, Igede-Ekiti, Revd Ola Ogundipe prayed for more breakthrough for the nation and urged government to provide more job for the citizenry. |
