SIR: In 2022, like a phoenix from the ashes, God helped to reposition Ekiti State when Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji emerged governor. Humble, humane and charismatic as a leader and an Omoluabi, Oyebanji, a thorough- bred grassroots politician with deep insights and empathy for the Ekiti Ketes beyond party lines and affiliations. The governor has since grown in status and pedigree as a unifier, a peacemaker, and a bridge builder. He encapsulates what political inclusivity means and represents in all aspects and ramifications. He remains the exact opposite of yesterday men of powers in the state without making any noise or stepping on toes, be it fragile or solid rock.
Abayomi Oyebamiji represents all that Ekitis wanted in a governor. He met all the criteria and appealed to our people, home and abroad. As an admirer of former Governor Kayode Fayemi, an enigmatic leader and brilliant administrator, I was worried about what would become of the state after his exit. Three years later, I can say without any contradiction that Governor Oyebanji has proved his mettle as a purposeful leader in more than a million times.
To those who are wondering why individuals and organisations are calling on Governor Oyebanji to start preparing for his second term in office, the reason lies in his achievements.Our governor has worked tirelessly to create an environment that is business-friendly, peaceful, serene and none toxic.
Coming to projects, he has touched almost all sectors: road infrastructure, educational development, health services, and agricultural revolution. For instance, he knew from day one that agro-business would lift Ekiti State out of poverty and years of subsistence farming and he has invested hugely in our youths to go into farming. His administration has made agriculture and rural development the cornerstone of genuine developmental governance strategy by recognizing the sector’s critical role in ensuring food security and driving economic growth.
Moved by the plight of Ekiti pensioners in the face of accumulated gratuities inherited from previous administrations, I’m aware that Gov. Oyebanji had paid billions of naira to offset part of the outstanding gratuities as well as payment of their regular monthly gratuities. Aside from supporting and equipping workers in the state to ensure a more excellent and efficient service delivery, Oyebanji has put smiles on the faces of Ekiti teachers when he directed that primary school teachers with degree qualifications should enjoy career progression to level 16 like others. This is in addition to extending car and housing loans to them, thereby bringing them out of an age-long policy that had deprived them. What else do we want?
A month ago, the timetable for the next gubernatorial election in our dear state was released. Given the nature of our politics, I was not surprised that the announcement has ignited some conversations about who will contest and who will not contest the primary election.
I want to appeal that Oyebanji remains focused and steadfast without allowing any distraction to derail him For me,I don’t need any chief priest or a diviner to tell me that the second term tenure for Mr performing Governor Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji will be a straight and smooth walk in the park, God willing.
Ctedit:The Guardian