OGILO SKOPE (the speaking pen 🖊️)

Ekiti Queens Surge to Safety With Dominant 2-0 Win Over Ibom Angels Ekiti Queens Football Club secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Ibom Angels Football Club on April 22, 2026, marking a third win back-to-back, on Matchday 16 of the Nigeria Women Football League 2025/2026 campaign. The Baoress Babes returned to the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium Ado Ekiti as they built on their previous triumph with another commanding home performance. Heading into the encounter, coach Jacob Vandi side had amassed 16 points and were determined to strengthen their fight against relegation. The hosts started brightly at 4pm, with the attacking trio of Ismail Zainab, Olamide Olanrenwaju and Joke Adeyemo causing constant problems for the visitors. Ekiti Queens took an early lead in the 9th minute when a handball inside the box led to a penalty, which was calmly converted by Odunayo Olaleye to make it 1-0. The midfield trio of Olaleye, Patience Yaro and Endurance Omoraka controlled proceedings, breaking up play...

EKITI GOVT WARNS AGAINST STADIUM VIOLENCE AS EKITI QUEENS RETURN HOME The Ekiti State Government has reiterated its zero tolerance for stadium violence ahead of the return of Ekiti Queens FC to the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado Ekiti, for their Matchday 15 clash against Pacesetter Queens. This was made known by the Technical Advisor on Sports Development to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Dr Mrs Olusola Osetoba, who cautioned fans and supporters to maintain order and decorum during the encounter. According to the team's media officer Tosin Popoola, Ekiti Queens will be playing in front of their home crowd for the first time this season after being banished to the MKO Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State since December 10, 2025. The Coach Jacob Vandi-led side will face their southwest rivals, Pacesetter Queens of Ibadan, in what is expected to be a highly competitive derby at 4pm on Wednesday, April 15, 2026. The hosts go into the fixture with confidence following a 2-0 victory in the first leg ...

BAORESS BABES’ RESILIENCE SHINES AS EKITI STUN NAIJA RATELS WITH COMEBACK VICTORY IN BWARI Tosin Popoola  Ekiti Queens produced a spirited comeback to defeat Naija Ratels 2-1 in a thrilling Matchday 14 encounter of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) played at the Bwari Township Stadium, Abuja, on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. The visitors, nicknamed the Baoress Babes, showed character and tactical discipline to overturn a first-half deficit, handing the home side a painful defeat in front of their supporters. Naija Ratels had taken the lead in the 37th minute through Paulina Orshio, who calmly converted from the penalty spot after a foul by Ekiti Queens centre-back, Foluke Opeyori. The goal gave the hosts confidence as they pressed for more before the break. Coach Jacob Vandi’s side, however, responded with urgency, launching wave after wave of attacks in search of an equaliser. Despite their dominance in possession, the first half ended with Ekiti Queens trailing by a lone g...

EASTER MESSAGE: OYEBANJI CALLS FOR PEACEFUL POLL, SPIRITUAL RENEWAL IN EKITI Oyebanji   Governor Biodun Oyebanji has extended Easter greetings to Christians in Ekiti State and across Nigeria, urging renewed commitment to faith and peaceful coexistence. The Governor described the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ as the ultimate sacrifice for the redemption of mankind and a cornerstone of Christian belief. He emphasized that the significance of Easter should inspire believers to embrace humility, love, perseverance, and compassion in their daily lives. Governor Oyebanji called on residents of Ekiti and Nigerians at large to use the Easter period as a time for deep reflection and fervent prayers for peace, progress, and national unity. He specifically urged citizens to seek divine guidance ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in the state, stressing the need for a peaceful and credible process. The Governor appealed to political actors, including aspirants, party leade...

Ekiti Para Athletes Set Records, Return from 2026 National Games The Ekiti State para-athletes contingent has returned home after an impressive outing at the 2026 National Para Games held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, where they recorded historic achievements. The games, which ran from March 26 to April 3, 2026, saw Ekiti athletes compete in six sporting events, securing medals across multiple categories and setting new milestones for the state. Notably, the contingent made history in wheelchair basketball, para soccer, and para swimming—events in which Ekiti participated for the first time and still emerged with medals. In individual performances, Taiwo Olasunkanmi clinched gold in para karate, while Araomo Oladapo Stephen secured silver in the same event. The wheelchair basketball team also delivered a strong performance, earning a silver medal. Ajimati Modupe won bronze in para powerlifting, while Olaniyi Joshua claimed bronze in shot put. Ofere Modupe added another bronze...

  Biography of (Sade) Helen Folasade Adu, known professionally as Sade, is a Nigerian-born British singer and songwriter celebrated for her distinctive voice, refined style, and enduring influence on global music. She was born on January 16, 1959, in , into a multicultural family.  Her father, Adebisi Adu, was a Nigerian lecturer of Yoruba heritage from , while her mother, Anne Hayes, was an English nurse.  This heritage firmly connects Sade to Ikere-Ekiti by lineage, even though her upbringing took place largely outside Nigeria.  Following her parents’ separation when she was four, she moved to England with her mother and brother, growing up in and later. Sade’s early interests were in art and design. She studied fashion at in London and briefly worked as a model before transitioning into music. Her career began as a backing vocalist for the band Pride, where she formed a creative partnership with . This collaboration laid the foundation for the formation of he...

  Ekiti United Apologizes to Fans, Vows Strong Finish to Season Ekiti United Football Club has issued an official statement apologizing to its fans, supporters, and stakeholders over a disappointing run of results away from home this season, assuring them of renewed commitment as the campaign draws to a close. In the statement dated March 30, 2026, the management, staff, and players expressed deep regret over their recent performances, particularly the outcome of their last away fixture against Akwa United FC, which they admitted fell short of expectations. The club acknowledged the emotional investment of their supporters, noting that they understand how much the results mean to the fans and have taken full responsibility for not delivering the desired outcomes on the road. Ekiti United further appreciated the unwavering support they have continued to receive both home and away, admitting that such loyalty deserves better performances and results than what has been delivered s...

Ekiti Para Athletes Depart For 2026 National Para Games Ekiti State has officially flagged off its participation in the 2026 National Para Games, as the state’s contingent of para athletes departed Ado-Ekiti for Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, on Thursday, March 26, 2026. The team, made up of athletes, coaches, and officials, left from the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium amid excitement and optimism, signaling their readiness to compete with other contingents from across the country in the highly anticipated national event. In a farewell address, Technical Adviser to the Governor on Sports Development, Dr. , reaffirmed the strong commitment of Ekiti State Governor to promoting inclusivity and improving the welfare of Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) through sustained investment in sports development. She charged the athletes to conduct themselves with discipline and pride, urging them to serve as worthy ambassadors of the state while representing Ekiti on the national stage. Dr. Ose...

Ekiti State Government Makes History with Chartered Flight for Ekiti Queens Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has approved a landmark first-ever chartered flight for Ekiti Queens to honour their NWFL Match Day 11 fixture in Yola. The approval, conveyed through the Technical Adviser on Sports Development, Dr Mrs Olusola Osetoba, underscores the administration’s firm commitment to player welfare and safety. The Baoress Babes are set to face Adamawa Queens in Yola, with the decision eliminating the dangers associated with the long and arduous road journey from Ado-Ekiti. Governor Oyebanji emphasised that he will not risk the lives of players and officials, especially considering prevailing security concerns along the travel route. Ekiti Queens, currently sixth in Group A with 10 points from nine matches, will be aiming to build on the historic backing with a strong performance.

Osetoba Blasts “Malicious Propaganda,” Vows to Defend Integrity, Professionalism in Ekiti Football (Tosin Popoola) The Technical Adviser on Sports Development to Governor , Dr Mrs Olusola Osetoba, has fiercely condemned what she described as a coordinated smear campaign by disgruntled elements bent on assassinating her character, declaring that no amount of propaganda will derail her commitment to professionalism, discipline and sportsmanship in Ekiti football. The reaction follows the circulation of a selectively edited video clip from a Yoruba sports programme on anchored by Bernard Fagbemiro, in which she metaphorically stated that she could not allow anyone to defeat her in “her father’s house,” a remark now being mischievously twisted to falsely suggest she was inciting violence or promoting a reckless must-win-at-home mentality. Addressing journalists in Ado Ekiti, Osetoba described the interpretation as dishonest, malicious and deliberately misleading, stressing that her sta...

  Ekiti Government Cracks Down on Stadium Violence, Warns Troublemakers of Arrest TA Sports: Dr Osetoba   The Ekiti State Government has issued a stern warning to football fans and residents over rising concerns of crowd violence at match venues, declaring that anyone found engaging in hooliganism or related offences at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado Ekiti will be arrested and prosecuted. The warning follows recent incidents of crowd disturbances recorded in different league centres across the country, as well as intelligence reports suggesting that some disgruntled individuals were plotting to attack players and officials of the state-owned football clubs over match outcomes. Speaking during a radio programme in Ado Ekiti, the Technical Adviser on Sports Development to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Dr Mrs Olusola Osetoba, said the government would not tolerate any form of violence, harassment, possession of arms or other illegal acts at the stadium. Osetoba said the govern...

Ado Ekiti Gears Up for Outsiders Block Party Kick-Off Edition Excitement is building in as party lovers prepare for the much-anticipated Outsiders Block Party, themed “The Kick Off Edition,” which is set to hold on February 21 at the popular Ball ‘N’ Ball Lounge in the heart of the city. The event, packaged by Euphoria Entertainment and spearheaded by MC Balo and his team, is designed to bring together fun seekers, creatives and nightlife enthusiasts for an evening of music, networking and vibrant social interaction in a relaxed but energetic atmosphere. According to the organisers, the venue—Ball “N” Ball Lounge, located off University Road, Adehun, Ado Ekiti—will host a lineup of top local DJs including Vdj Youngest, Cool DJ Lee and DJ T-Mighty, alongside hypemen Hypeboy Don, Hypeman Smith and Hypeman Shadow, all set to keep the crowd on their feet throughout the night. The entertainment roster also features performances from rising artistes Joemania, Boii Brizzle and Sheystyle,...

Osetoba Commends Oyebode’s Support as Ekiti U-17 Cricket Teams Head for National Championship The Technical Advisor to the Governor of Ekiti State on Sports Development, Dr. Olusola Osetoba, has praised the Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Akin Oyebode, for his sustained philanthropic support towards the growth of cricket in the state. Dr. Osetoba gave the commendation while addressing the sponsorship of Ekiti’s male and female teams to the National U-17 Cricket Championship scheduled to hold in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from February 18 to 21, 2026. She described Mr. Oyebode as a passionate sports enthusiast and a dependable pillar of support whose contributions have significantly strengthened Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s vision for sports development in Ekiti. According to her, Mr. Oyebode, who also serves as Chairman of the Ekiti State Cricket Association, has transformed the sport in the state. She noted that cricket in Ekiti has witnessed remarkable prog...

  SWAN @ 62: Ekiti Sports Writers Tour Facilities, Laud Oyebanji’s Youth-Focused Drive In commemoration of the 62nd anniversary of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), the Ekiti State chapter undertook a guided tour of major sports facilities across the state, led by the Technical Adviser on Sports Development to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Dr Mrs Olusola Osetoba. The tour commenced at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado-Ekiti, which is currently undergoing refurbishment, where sports journalists were briefed on the scope and purpose of the ongoing upgrade. The delegation, led by SWAN Ekiti Chairman, Qozeem Oladapo, alongside the Vice President of SWAN South-West, Deji Ogunsakin, was exposed to the administration’s strides in repositioning sports infrastructure in the state. Dr Osetoba explained during the tour that Governor Oyebanji’s administration has prioritised sports as a strategic tool for youth development, empowerment and social inclusion in Ekiti State. At the...

Free Health Care Registration Now Open Across Ekiti State If you live in Ekiti State and you or someone around you is pregnant, caring for a child under five, living with conditions like sickle cell, or elderly, this message is especially for you. These groups are considered most vulnerable, and the state has made provisions to ensure they get the care and attention they deserve without financial stress. Across all 177 wards in Ekiti State, Primary Health Care centres are open and ready to register eligible residents for this free health care programme. Please take advantage of this opportunity by visiting the nearest PHC to you, because early registration can make a real difference in protecting health and saving lives. Source: Omoluabi 

Ekiti United Threatens Legal Action Over “Deliberate Lie” on Alleged Attack of Coach, Labels Report Criminally Misleading Ekiti United Football Club has issued a stern, uncompromising and final rebuttal to a malicious, defamatory and deliberately false report circulated on social media by X user Olaiya Azeez Lawal, which falsely alleged that supporters attacked Head Coach Idris Bolarinwa during a training session. The club has described the publication as a calculated falsehood, a reckless act of misinformation and a dangerous abuse of social media, warning that it reserves the right to pursue full legal redress against the author and any platform or individual who continues to propagate the lie. In a categorical statement, Ekiti United confirmed that the team resumed training peacefully at exactly 7:00 a.m. on Monday January 26 ahead of the second stanza of the Nigeria National League (NNL), which commences on February 14, and that no incident remotely resembling an attack or protest ...

  Ekiti United Resume Training as NNL Second Stanza Beckons Ekiti United Football Club have announced the resumption of players and officials ahead of the second stanza of the 2025/2026 Nigeria National League (NNL) season as preparations intensify for the decisive phase of the campaign. The club’s management directed all players and backroom staff to report to the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado-Ekiti, by 7:00 a.m. on Monday, January 26, for the commencement of full training and tactical drills. League organisers have confirmed that the second stanza of the NNL season will kick off on February 14, with Ekiti United scheduled to host First Bank FC a day later in what will serve as their opening fixture of the round. The Ekiti-based side ended the first stanza in fourth position on the league table with 15 points and remain optimistic about improving their standings as they chase a strong finish and possible promotion. Speaking through the club’s media channel, Team Secretary Mr. B...

Oluyemi Kayode Stadium Founding Committee Member, Chief Daramola Hails Sports Development in Ekiti, Confers “Orente” Title on Dr. Osetoba Chief Dr. Francis Adebayo Daramola, Secretary to the Committee that transformed the former Community Centre into the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado-Ekiti, on Tuesday visited the facility alongside the Technical Advisor on Sports Development to the Ekiti State Governor, Hon. Dr. Mrs. Olusola Osetoba. During the visit, Chief Daramola commended the level of development recorded at the stadium under the current administration, expressing satisfaction with the quality of work and visible improvements at the sports complex. The elder statesman, who is also the father of former House of Representatives member Hon. Bimbo Daramola, shared his experience as a former footballer and recalled visits to stadiums across several countries. He noted that strict regulations govern sports facilities globally, stressing that the ban on bottled drinks and alcohol in stadium...

  Olawale Omoyeni Resigns as Ekiti FA Media Officer Olawale Omoyeni has officially stepped down from his position as the Media Officer of the Ekiti State Football Association, as contained in a resignation letter dated January 19, 2026. In the letter addressed to the Association and the general public, Omoyeni stated that his decision was taken to enable him pursue other life opportunities and further his professional career. He expressed sincere appreciation to the Ekiti State Football Association for the privilege to serve and for the opportunity to contribute to the development of football in the state. Omoyeni also wished the football family in Ekiti State sustained success under the leadership of Aare Oluwole Oloworemo and thanked all stakeholders for their support during his tenure.

Ismail Zainab Finishes Second as NWFL Matchday Six Top Performer Award Is Decided Ismail Zainab of Ekiti Queens has once again demonstrated her growing influence in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), finishing second in the voting for the Matchday Six Top Performer Award . The official results, released after the conclusion of fans’ voting across nine centres, placed Zainab just behind the winner in a highly competitive contest that attracted massive participation from supporters nationwide. Zainab polled an impressive 1,170 votes , a strong showing that underlines her consistency and popularity among football fans. Her performance during Matchday Six stood out as one of the most impactful of the round and earned her widespread recognition. In a message to her supporters, Zainab expressed deep appreciation to the fans who voted for her. “I sincerely thank all my fans for their support and for believing in me. Your votes mean a lot to me, and I promise to keep giving my b...