Ekiti Governor Biodun Oyebanji Mourns Deaths of Two Prominent Seniors

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji attended the burial of Chief Francis Adebayo Daramola, a 99‑year‑old educationist hailed as a pioneer of quality education in the Western Region. The ceremony at St John’s Church in Ire Ekiti gathered dignitaries including Niger State Governor Mohamed Umaru Bago, the Deputy Governor, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele and former governors Segun Oni and Ayodele Fayose. Oyebanji praised Daramola’s legacy of mentorship, community service and integrity.

Earlier in the week, the governor and the Ekiti Council of Elders expressed grief over the death of Prince Gabriel Omodara, a 93‑year‑old APC chieftain and former chairman of the defunct Ekiti Central Local Government. Oyebanji described Omodara as a dedicated progressive whose political and community work left an enduring impact on Ado Ekiti and the state. Elders highlighted his role in grassroots mobilisation and his blend of Christian faith with Yoruba traditions. Both deaths prompted widespread mourning across Ekiti’s political and civic circles.