By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Ibadan — Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has presented a brand-new Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) to gospel singer and broadcaster, Dr. Yinka Ayefele, following the recent fire incident that gutted parts of his Music House complex, which houses Fresh FM in Challenge, Ibadan.
The gesture, delivered through the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, was aimed at showing solidarity with Ayefele, whose radio station has become a household name across the South-West for its balanced programming and wide listenership.
Governor Makinde commiserated with Ayefele and staff of Fresh FM, noting that the media house has contributed significantly to entertainment, information dissemination, and job creation in Oyo State. He said the government recognizes the resilience of the founder, who despite living with a physical disability, has become one of Nigeria’s most successful music icons and broadcasters.
The Music House was engulfed by fire last week, destroying sections of the multi-million-naira complex, including offices and studio equipment. The cause of the fire is yet to be officially confirmed, but eyewitnesses reported that it spread rapidly before firefighters were able to bring it under control.
The Merit Newspaper reports that this is not the first time the Music House has faced adversity. In 2018, under the previous administration, parts of the building were demolished in controversial circumstances, sparking nationwide outrage. Ayefele, however, rebuilt the complex and expanded Fresh FM’s reach, with branches now operating in Lagos, Abeokuta, Ado-Ekiti, and Osogbo.
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Responding to the governor’s support, Ayefele expressed gratitude, describing the SUV as a symbol of encouragement for his continued service to the people through broadcasting and music. He assured listeners that Fresh FM would bounce back stronger after the setback.
Fresh FM, established in 2015, has grown into one of the most influential privately-owned radio networks in Nigeria, popular for its urban programming and community-driven content.
