By Peter Egwuatu

Members of the Aiyede Progressive Union (APU), have elected new executive officers to lead the association for the next four years, in what organisers described as a display of unity among Aiyede Ekiti indigenes.

The election, held on April 5, 2026, featured campaigns and a manifesto presentation session and was monitored by independent observers, including retired Comptroller of Customs Kolawole Arowojobe, educationist Dr. Felicia Ajayi, and accountant and tax practitioner Babatunde Daramola.

Voting was conducted using a hybrid system, combining physical and electronic methods. Observers and organizers declared the process free, fair, and credible.

According to a statement, the Electoral Committee was chaired by Oluropo Dada, the 13th President and Chairman of Council of Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), who provided experienced leadership throughout the electoral process. Other distinguished members of the committee included Ayo Amos, Felix Olaoye, Emiola, and Oladipupo Olarewaju.
Together, the committee ensured that the election was conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner, upholding due process and democratic principles. Their collective effort contributed to the credibility of the election and reinforced trust among stakeholders in the community.
“At the conclusion of the exercise, the following officers were elected: President: Architect. Michael Ayodele, Ilorin Branch, Vice President: Director of Finance, Ifeloju Local Government Authority, Ilupeju Ekiti, Lawrence Adekunle, Ado Branch, . Secretary General: Olanike Olatunji-Raji, Aiyede Branch, Vice Principal, Aiyede Grammar School, Assistant Secretary: Samuel Olugbenro , Ado Branch, Public Relations Officer; Engineer Babatola Ayodele, Ilorin Branch and Legal Adviser, Barrister Gani Fasoro, Ado Branch.

Following the election, the newly elected executives paid a courtesy visit to the Attah of Aiyede Ekiti, Oba Mununi Orisagbemi, to seek his royal blessings and guidance. The monarch warmly congratulated them on their successful emergence and emphasized the importance of preserving the integrity, unity, and collective progress of the town.
He further advised the leaders to prioritize inclusive development by engaging all stakeholders, both at home and in the diaspora, in meaningful dialogue and decision-making. Oba Orisagbemi encouraged them to focus on key areas such as improving infrastructure, supporting education, promoting youth empowerment, and strengthening healthcare services within Aiyede Ekiti.
The royal father also stressed the need for transparency, accountability, and visionary leadership in governance, noting that sustainable development can only be achieved through collaboration, peace, and a shared commitment to the welfare of the community. He urged the executives to build on existing efforts while introducing innovative initiatives that will attract investment and create opportunities for the people. In addition, he called for the preservation of the town’s cultural heritage, traditions, and values, as these remain essential to the identity and unity of Aiyede Ekiti.
Congratulatory messages have since been received from stakeholders and members of the Aiyede community, both locally and in the diaspora, commending the Board of Trustees, the Electoral Committee, and the newly elected officers on the successful conduct of the election” the statement added .