Ekiti At 30 State Broadcast by H.E. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.

Ekiti kete, it is THIRTY YEARS since our Great State was created by the Military Government of General Sanni Abacha. On the morning of October 1, 1996, many Nigerians clutched to their radio, awaiting the announcement of the new States to be created. Many people did not think Ekiti State creation idea stood a chance, as we stood against more formidable contenders from the South West geopolitical zone seeking the only slot for the zone. But to the glory of God, we made it! In many respects, the creation of Ekiti State 30 years ago, and one hundred and twenty years after Kiriji War, completed the epic struggle of independence that our forebears began in the liberation war of 1877-1893. A day like this is, therefore, not just historic to us as a people bound by common geography, culture, language and aspiration, it is our day of Independence and Thanksgiving. It is therefore my pleasure to congratulate all Ekiti sons and daughters and all peoples of the world for whom, Ekiti has become home, on the 30th Anniversary and the 66th National Independence Day celebration. I also want to congratulate members of the Committee for the creation of Ekiti State, who are still alive on seeing these 30 years of incredible transformation of Ekiti, in fulfillment of their dreams. Permit me to use the Chairman of the Committee, Chief Oladeji Fasuan and Aare Afe Babalola to express my profound gratitude and appreciation to them and the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti as a point of contact to our Royal Fathers who were the incubators of the State creation struggle. Similarly, we remember with fond memories, the patriotic sacrifices of many of the heroes and heroines of the creation struggles, who have joined our ancestors. Even, in their graves, they would be proud that their efforts were not in vain and that their vision of a prosperous Ekiti is on a high pedestal. It also gladdens my heart that as the then Secretary of the Committee for Ekiti State Creation, through the grace of God and the benevolence of Ekiti kete, I am in the saddle today when the State turns 30. This is very humbling and I return all Glory to God.