Residents of Okemesi-Ekiti, headquarters of Okemesi/Ido-Ile Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Ekiti State, have launched a passionate appeal for the return of banking services to their community, more than a decade after a violent robbery incident forced the closure of the town's only bank branch.
The devastating 2013 robbery attack, which claimed two lives and left several others injured, resulted in the permanent shutdown of banking operations in the community, creating significant hardships for residents who have since lacked direct access to financial services.
Community's Economic Concerns
The call for reinstating banking services was a central focus at the third Socio-Economic Summit organized by The Likes Group (TLG), a prominent civic organization in the town. The event also featured the investiture ceremony of new executives for the 2025-2027 term.
Adesina Animasaun, Mayor of the group and former Deputy Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, emphasized the critical importance of functional banking facilities for sustaining economic growth in the community.
"The responsibility of The Likes Group transcends self-interest. We have a responsibility to help our community flourish. It's about lifting one another and facilitating opportunities where everyone can access the resources and support they need to realize their full potential," Animasaun stated.
He revealed that plans were underway to collaborate with a private university in the community to facilitate the return of banking operations, which would significantly benefit unemployed youth, students, farmers, traders, and artisans.
Royal Support and Government Recognition
The traditional ruler of Okemesi-Ekiti, Oba Gbadebo Adedeji, commended The Likes Group for their proactive role in promoting socio-economic advancement in the town. He described the organization as one of the most active civic bodies in the area and encouraged other community associations to adopt similar approaches to community development.
Oba Adedeji also expressed appreciation for Governor Biodun Oyebanji's contributions to the state's development, indicating that the governor had earned support for a second term in office.
Bayo Ajijola, Chairman/CEO of the Conference for Africa Studies and lead discussant at the event, praised The Likes Group for spearheading the movement for the town's economic renewal through initiatives like the Socio-Economic Summit.
The summit, described as "The Likes Club Reimagine dialogue," aims to serve as a catalyst for community transformation by addressing critical issues that impact collective well-being and future development through collaboration, learning, and empowerment.
For residents of Okemesi-Ekiti, the return of banking services represents not just a convenience but a crucial step toward economic revitalization after more than a decade of financial isolation.
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