Oyebanji Signs Two New Laws, as Assembly Marks Third Anniversary

…Restates Commitment to Effective Governance

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji has restated the commitment of his administration to a governance system anchored on strong institutions, justice and effective grassroots administration.

The Governor stated this on Thursday while signing into law the Ekiti State Local Government (First Amendment) law, 2026 and Ekiti State Administration of Criminal Justice (Second Amendment) Law, 2026, as part of activities marking the third anniversary of the Seventh Assembly at a brief event held at the Executive Council Chamber , Governor’s Office, Ado Ekiti.

Speaking shortly after assenting to the new laws, Governor Oyebanji described the two legislative instrument as critical reforms designed to enhance service delivery, promote accountability and improve institutional effectiveness across the state. He noted that the amendments reflect his administration’s commitment to building strong institutions capable of meeting the aspirations of the people.

The Governor stated further that the Local Government (First Amendments) Law, would enhance effectiveness of local government administration by establishing legislative departments at the local government level, improve governance at the grassroots and ensure that councils are better positioned to deliver democratic dividends to their respective to the citizens.

He stressed that strong local governments remain vital to sustainable development and inclusive growth.

Speaking on the Administration of Criminal Justice (Second bj Amendments) Law, the Governor explained that the amendment aligns the state with the global best practice by embracing the principle of restorative justice, adding that the law reflects a more humane approach to justice delivery, stressing that the people deserve a justice that does not only punish but also heal and restores.

While commending the Speaker and members of the seventh assembly for their diligence, partnership and commitment to the shared prosperity agenda of his administration, the Governor said they have demonstrated that the legislative and executive arms of government can work together without conflict.

“I’m honoured to join you today as we mark the third anniversary of the 7th assembly of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, three years ago, you received the mandate from the people of Ekiti and today that mandate is bearing fruit, this assembly has proven that effective law making is the backbone of good governance.

“The first as the speaker enumerated is the Local Government Administration Law of 2026 by establishing a legislative office department at the local government level. This law brings professionalism and structure to the very foundation of democracy. Local government are the closest arms of government to our people in the villages and towns, with trained legislative officers, our council will now make better laws, keep better records and deliver better services.

“The second is Ekiti State Administration of criminal justice, second amendment law, 2026. The amendment aligns Ekiti with global best practice by embracing restorative justice. Our people deserve the justice system that does not only punish but also heals and restore. A system where victims are heard, offenders are reform and communities are made whole again”. The Governor stressed.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, who commended Governor Oyebanji for what he described as purposeful and reform-driven governance, noted that the passage and assent to the amended laws reflect a shared commitment between the executive and legislature to strengthen institutions in the state.

He described the event as more than merely signing documents, but signing of the state’s resolve for stronger local government, a fair justice system and a brighter future for the state.

The speaker said that the two laws would further enhance the effectiveness of the justice system, promote speedy dispensation of fair justice as well as strengthen grassroots governance and improve the capacity of local council to deliver democratic dividends.