How Oyebanji Transformed the Fate of a Flood-Homeless Widow

One undeniable truth is that rain is a blessing bestowed upon humankind by God and serves as a sign of His affection. Rain plays an indispensable role in sustaining life on Earth by supplying the water needed for plant growth and prosperity, thus acting as a natural gift that supports ecological balance. This sentiment is beautifully encapsulated in Acts 14:17, which states, "For He has shown His kindness by giving you rain from heaven and causing your crops to grow in due season; He provides you with ample nourishment and fills your hearts with gladness."

This is commonly thought, yet occasionally, rain can turn into a "bane" when it pours excessively, leading to floods, destroying properties, displacing residents, and transforming a helpful natural event into a harmful one; this tends to happen more so in regions unprepared for significant water surges.

During the 2024 rainy season in certain areas of Ekiti State, severe thunderstorms devastated homes and left numerous individuals without shelter. One severely impacted individual was Mrs. Modupe Ajayi Alufoge, an octogenarian widow from Igbara-Odo Ekiti. Like everyday, Mrs. Alufoge—a small-time vendor who sold goods along the street—awoke full of energy and prepared for another trading session. However, just then, what started off sunny transformed abruptly into overcast skies accompanied by rapidly cooling temperatures. Wind velocities escalated, and darkening clouds signaled imminent rainfall.
Mrs. Alufoge, similar to others nearby, hastily gathered her merchandise anticipating favorable weather conditions. Yet their expectations were dashed instantly when light drizzles quickly intensified into torrential downpours causing unprecedented flooding. Once the storm ceased, word spread throughout the community that Ms. Alufoge’s residence had sustained irreparable damage due to the deluge.

Within a few minutes after the rain stopped, the house of the octogenarian had become like a Mecca sort of as scores of sympathisers had assembled to console her. According to the old woman, the more they consoled her, the more tears rolled down her cheeks.

She stated, "People arrived from all corners to comfort me, yet their attempts to soothe me only caused my thoughts to shift further away from despair into utter emptiness. Although I have faith in God and recognize His omnipotence, I couldn't fathom how He might perform a miracle substantial enough to reconstruct my home as a mere mortal. This mental turmoil persisted for several days until Governor Abiodun Oyebanji appeared, reminiscent of a divine savior."

According to statements from community leaders, Mama Alufoge has consistently supported BAO. Whenever the governor's motorcade passes through Igbara Ondo-Akure Road, she joins fellow traders like Alufoge in lining up alongside the street to greet the governor. In response, he acknowledges their welcome and occasionally stops for a chat with them.

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Following the disaster that struck the elderly lady, she retreated into seclusion within her dwelling and resumed her routine duties. One typical afternoon, as expected, the governor arrived at Akure Airport heading towards Igabra-Odo; once more, the vendors gathered to welcome him with enthusiasm. Upon descending from his vehicle, he acknowledged their support yet observed that Mama wasn’t present among them. The governor then inquired specifically about Mrs. Alufoge, prompting the merchants to recount the hardships faced by this woman. When questioned regarding her residence, he promptly proceeded toward her home despite her despondent state. Seeing Governor BAO, whom she held dear, brought an undeniable surge of joy even amidst her sadness, causing her spirits to lift briefly before succumbing fully back to despair. They shared warm greetings initially until tears welled up in her eyes during storytelling sessions where she detailed refusing abandonment of her abode. Instead, relocating belongings solely inside the partially undamaged chamber allowed continuous habitation therein post-disaster.

Impressed by Mama Alufoge’s narrative, BAO directed one of his assistants to contact an engineer for inspecting her home with the intention of constructing a new three-bedroom cottage as part of the initiatives undertaken by the Abiyamo Esther Oyebanji Foundation. This organization was founded personally by Governor Oyebanji along with his brothers and sisters in memory of their departed mother, the esteemed Chief (Mrs) Esther Oyebanji.

So far, through their foundation, the family has supported three significant initiatives aimed at benefiting mankind. In the previous year, the governor requested the construction and donation of a cutting-edge maternity unit to Aramoko General Hospital and presented an ultramodern multi-purpose hall to First Baptist Church in Ikogosi Ekiti. Additionally, the foundation has assisted numerous underprivileged individuals and is currently undertaking two key projects within the state.

The transfer of a completely equipped three-bedroom cottage to the widow in Igbara-Odo Ekiti stands as an additional act of empathy and communal assistance from the foundation, particularly under the leadership of the governor. Before Mama Alufoge’s circumstances improved through BAO, this street vendor was at risk of losing her home and facing despair.

While presenting the house keys during a short ceremony, Governor Oyebanji, who was represented by his spouse Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, emphasized that this act highlights his dedication to enhancing the well-being of disadvantaged individuals throughout the state and making sure nobody gets overlooked in his developmental plans. Dr. Oyebanji further contributed personally to assist the widow, considering her fortunate and blessed.

The governor characterized the action as an emblem of empathy, unity, and the conviction that nobody should weather life’s challenges unaided. He stated that the house embodies the concern and backing his administration extends to the citizens of the state.

As he congratulated Mama Alufoge on her new house, the governor stated that his administration continues to uphold a dedication towards building a community where nobody gets left out, with special emphasis on supporting those who are most at risk. He also affirmed his commitment to spreading the message of shared prosperity throughout the region.

I feel profoundly honored to be standing here today, speaking on behalf of my spouse, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, as we officially open a home crafted with love, empathy, and devotion for Mrs. Ajayi, an exceptionally strong and elderly widow hailing from Igbara Odo.

Mama Ajayi, who runs a small business along the road, encountered an unexpected crisis when her dilapidated house was demolished by a severe thunderstorm, putting her at risk of becoming homeless. However, due to the empathetic guidance provided by Governor Biodun Oyebanji, this difficult situation has transformed into a promising new beginning.

"Today, I am honored to present this newly constructed, completely equipped facility to Mama Ajayi on behalf of the Abiyamo Esther Oyebanji Foundation. It stands as a testament to our empathy, unity, and conviction that nobody should endure life’s challenges without support," said the First Lady.

In individual goodwill statements, Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Peju Babafemi; Chairperson of Igbara Odo/Ogotun LCDA, Mrs. Bukola Olowolaju; and the Araso of Igbara Odo Ekiti, Oba Edward Jayeola, each praised the governor’s kindness. They asserted that this act underscores the governor's commitment to enhancing the well-being of residents in Ekiti State.

With heartfelt appreciation, Madame Alufoge conveyed her thanks to the governor for the transformative present, referring to the act as nothing short of a miracle.

Describing her harrowing experience following the collapse of her home during the intense rainfall, Mrs. Alufoge praised the governor’s compassionate actions, calling them an exemplary display of accountable leadership. She expressed joy at having found solace, stating that she can once more lead a normal life. "I am immensely grateful to BAO. I believe my gratitude echoes through prayers," she stated.

Akingbolu sent this message from Ado-Ekiti.

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