The Ilupeju Development Association (IDA), Ado-Ekiti Branch, has elected a new executive committee with Mr. Dele Owolabi emerging as Chairman, following the expiration of the tenure of the outgoing leadership in line with the association’s constitution.
The election took place on Sunday during the Association’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the IDA Hall along Akeju Street, Ado-Ekiti. At the meeting, members also amended the tenure of elected executives to four years, renewable for a maximum of two terms, replacing the former two-year tenure,two terms arrangement.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Owolabi expressed appreciation to the immediate past executive committee for their commitment and sacrifices, assuring members that the new leadership would build on the solid foundation already laid. He called on all sons and daughters of Ilupeju Ekiti resident in Ado-Ekiti to support the new executive, stressing that unity, love and collective responsibility are essential to advancing the association’s goals.
The new chairman pledged to improve on existing achievements and prayed for divine guidance for the executive as they steer the affairs of the association.
Earlier, in his valedictory address, the immediate past Chairman, Elder Kayode Ogunyemi, reflected on his twelve years of service to the association, during which he served as Secretary, Vice Chairman and Chairman. He described the opportunity to serve as a privilege and expressed satisfaction with the steady progress recorded by the association despite prevailing economic and social challenges.
Elder Ogunyemi identified the advancement of the IDA Building Project as a major achievement of the outgoing administration, noting that the structure has become functional for meetings even as work continues towards its full completion. He attributed the progress to the collective vision, perseverance and sacrifices of members and past executives.
He also specially commended Honourable Sunday Adunmo for providing free accommodation for the association’s meetings at AB Hotel for almost five years, a gesture he described as rare and crucial to the association’s survival during a difficult period.
The outgoing chairman stressed that service to the association does not end with tenure or age, urging past leaders and elders to remain active and continue offering guidance and support. He advised the new executive to uphold unity, transparency and accountability, noting that leadership thrives on continuity and service.
On the financial status of the association, Elder Ogunyemi assured members that the association had been managed with prudence and transparency, while calling for sustained financial support to drive development initiatives.
Also speaking at the AGM, a retired Permanent Secretary, Mr. Sola Ogunmiluyi, praised the outgoing chairman for his dedication and effective leadership. He encouraged members to be willing to serve when called upon and commended the Ado-Ekiti branch for strictly adhering to the IDA national constitution on tenure, describing it as a mark of institutional maturity and respect for due process.
The newly elected executive members are:
Chairman: Mr. Dele Owolabi
Vice Chairman I: Engr. Awolusi
Vice Chairman II: Comrade Lawrence Ibitoye
General Secretary: Mr. Dada Emmanuel
Assistant General Secretary: Mrs. Babalola Tope
Financial Secretary: Mrs. Rachael Ajayi
Treasurer: Mrs. Ogunyemi Adenike
Auditor: Mr. Oladele Ibigbami
PRO I: Mr. Aribisala Kehinde
PRO II: Mr. Joseph Ojo
Chief Whip: Mrs. Daramola