The Ekiti State governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has been commended for his leadership style which has brought stakeholders together in the development of the state.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu gave the applause on Sunday during the thanksgiving service held at the Emmanuel Cathedral Church, Anglican Communion, Okesa, Ado Ekiti, in commemoration of the governor’s second year in office, saying Oyebanji’s style has brought needed development to the state.
The president, who was represented by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, promised to support the governor in making a greater positive impact on the people of the state, while urging him to continue in his statesmanlike approach to governance which has elicited citizens’ interest across all spectrum of the state.
“I don’t want to stand here and tell the governor that the president loves him. You already know he loves and supports you. I have assured those raising concerns about the new flyover you are constructing that it shouldn’t be a worry. I told them you are enjoying special presidential intervention.
“I have also assured them that you will continue to create opportunities for Ekiti across other sectors by working tirelessly. Our governor has performed well, and he deserves our support to succeed,” Bamidele said.
First state in Nigeria with a consensus governorship candidate
The senator, who chairs the Ekiti Caucus of the National Assembly, noted that the state was the first where all APC members and political leaders would agree on a consensus candidate for governor, assuring Oyebanji of their readiness to partner with him in efforts to rapidly develop the state.
“You are a statesman. Please remain one. Stay focused and allow politicians to play their games. Don’t be distracted. Be ready to double up and deliver for the people of Ekiti,” he counseled.
Former governors praise Oyebanji
The event was attended by dignitaries across the religious, social and political divides, including the former governors of the state – Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose, and Kayode Fayemi.
Oyebanji’s predecessor, Fayemi, spoke on behalf of the former governors, thanking God for the peace and development the state has enjoyed under Oyebanji’s leadership.
“We are grateful that Oyebanji is now a source of pride to us. We thank God we did not install someone who would bring shame to us. Without peace, there can be no development, and without development, there can be no peace.
“All the former governors share the same view. We thank God for the harmony the governor has promoted. I pray that God will continue to guide him, as the people of Ekiti will ultimately benefit from the harmony in the state.
“I love how the governor seeks advice from those of us who previously held the office. He has included all of us in governance. I pray he continues to grow in wisdom,” Fayemi said.
In their respective speeches, the other former governors also took turn to emphasize Oyebanji’s focus on governance, rather than personal ambition which, they said, has earned him their endorsement for a second term.
Bishop admonishes Oyebanji
The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Ekiti, Most Rev. Andrew Ajayi, in his sermon, extolled the governor’s ‘compassionate and aggressive efforts’ to develop the state through extension of roads, electricity, and other public utilities to many communities.
He urged the governor to follow the path of equity and justice, reminding him to make good use of his privileged position to ensure a memorable and rewarding post-governorship life.
“As a leader, do what is right. Your duty is to create an environment where people can excel. Think about how many people you have uplifted. That is your joy after leaving office. Leaders rely not on their power, but on God, who gives and takes power. With this spirit in you, you will excel. You should thank God for making you a good ambassador,” he said.
In his brief remark, Governor Oyebanji said he was particularly grateful to President Tinubu for his support for his administration. He also praised the former governors, national and state assembly members, and other stakeholders for joining hands with him to move the state forward.
