Ekinrin-Adde Day 2025 in Focus

 

The 2025 Ekinrin-Adde Day celebration was a vibrant showcase of culture and unity, with Rt. Hon. (Dr) James Abiodun Faleke once again stealing the spotlight as the pride of the people of Ekinrin-Adde.

The event was graced by the Executive Governor of Kogi State, ably represented by his Deputy, H.E. Joel Salifu Oyibo. The Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, served as the Chief Launcher of the Day.

Other notable dignitaries in attendance included:

Distinguished Senator Sunday Karimi, Senator representing Kogi West

Hon. Akinlayo Davidson Kolawole

H.E. Dr. Silas Agara, Director-General of the National Directorate of Employment and former Deputy Governor of Nasarawa State

Dr. Habibat Omolara, Secretary to the State Government of Ekiti State

The event was well-attended by several other well-meaning Nigerians who came to celebrate and honour the rich cultural heritage of Ekinrin-Adde.

Furthermore, the celebration also marked the commencement of the New Yam Festival, with an impressive display of fresh farm produce that captivated all in attendance.

©️ Media Office of Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke

Just In: Suspected Bandits Informant Takes Own Life in Kogi State

A shocking incident has unfolded in the Odo-Ape community, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, where a suspected bandits informant known as Ujah, took his own life.

He was reportedly named among individuals suspected of providing information and logistics support to bandits operating in the area, particularly in the recent kidnapping of retired Army Major, Pastor Joe Ajayi.

According to reports, Ujah learned that security operatives were looking for him after visiting his house, prompting him to commit suicide before they could apprehend him.

This incident has sparked public debate on why some individuals would support such criminal activities, essentially betraying their own community.

In a similar incident in Abuja, a suspected kidnapper’s informant took his own life after being surrounded by police in Kuje Area Council.

The suspect reportedly stabbed himself in the stomach with a knife.

The Kogi State incident is currently under investigation, with many suspects already apprehended and undergoing interrogation.

The goal is to unravel the network of individuals collaborating with bandits to cause crisis in the area.

Reps Salman Idris Mourns Major Joe Ajayi, Says Constituency Will Overcome Insecurity

The Member Representing Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency, Hon. Salman Idris, has strongly condemned the kidnapping and eventual death of a community leader in Odo-Ape, Pastor Joe Ajayi, in kidnappers’ den.

In a statement, the lawmaker described the actions of the kidnappers as wicked and unfortunate. The tragic death of Major Joe Ajayi, a respected community leader, retired Army Major, and devoted Pastor, is extremely painful considering the circumstances surrounding it.

Major Ajayi was kidnapped from his residence in Odo-Ape, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area, on May 21, 2025. Despite a ransom payment of N10 million, his lifeless body was later found.

Hon. Idris vowed to work with the Kogi State Government, security agencies, and stakeholders to ensure justice is served and those responsible are brought to book. “We will win the battle against kidnappers and bandits in our constituency,” he declared. “We will not rest until our people are safe and secure.”

Hon. Idris extended his deepest condolences to the family, friends, the Christian Association of Nigeria, and the Odo-Ape community, praying for their strength and comfort during this difficult time.

The loss of Major Joe Ajayi serves as a painful reminder of the dangers our communities face daily. We stand in solidarity with the family of Pastor Joe Ajayi as we pray for peace in our constituency. He prayed for the eternal repose of the soul of Major Joe Ajayi.