In a striking turn of events, three former Ekiti State Governors, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, Chief Ayodele Fayose, and Dr. Kayode Fayemi, have jointly declared their endorsement of Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term in office. Their support is rooted in Oyebanji’s remarkable leadership style and notable achievements during his first year in office.
Speaking on behalf of the trio, Fayose stated that they had thoroughly evaluated Governor Oyebanji’s performance and concluded that he deserved a second term. Fayose emphasized that Oyebanji had successfully united various political and religious groups in the state and mobilized the population for substantial development.
This extraordinary endorsement took place during a special thanksgiving service to commemorate the first anniversary of Governor Oyebanji’s administration at the Cathedral Church of Emmanuel Okesa in Ado Ekiti. The event drew distinguished personalities from all walks of life.
In a significant development, the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, expressed his eagerness to lead Oyebanji’s second-term Re-election Campaign Council. Senator Bamidele highlighted the Governor’s substantial impact, asserting that he had earned the people’s trust and confidence for a second term.
The endorsements of former Governors Adebayo, Fayose, and Fayemi sent ripples of excitement through the congregation. In their speeches, each former governor expressed unwavering support for Governor Oyebanji, emphasizing the need for continuity and celebrating his inclusive leadership.
First to address the gathering was Dr. Fayemi, who acknowledged the importance of hierarchy among Ekiti’s former governors and deferred to Otunba Adebayo. Adebayo graciously invited Ayo Fayose to speak, signaling their unified stance.
Fayose stated emphatically, “We are all together for Abiodun Oyebanji, I am not a member of your party (APC) and I will not be. I am with you (Oyebanji) 100 per cent. You are doing it differently, and you will get a different result. This church will pray for you, and you will do it (governorship) a second time.”
The former Governors lauded Oyebanji’s approach, which transcends the traditional practice of a sitting Governor targeting the predecessor. Fayose added, “On your matter, all of us are unanimous in our support for you. You are doing well, your leadership style is different, and I am not surprised your performance has been excellent. Ekiti will do well to have you for eight years.”
Adebayo concurred, stating, “This is the position of we, the former governors. Thank you very much.”
In his earlier remarks, Senate Leader Bamidele emphasized Governor Oyebanji’s pivotal role in fostering unity and the culture of performance in Ekiti State. He declared that the state was poised for further progress under Oyebanji’s leadership.
Bamidele highlighted the Governor’s humility, asserting that Oyebanji had introduced a new political order that united diverse groups. He concluded, “I am looking forward to being the chairman of your re-election campaign, if Jesus Christ tarries in his coming and God spares our lives.”
In his anniversary service sermon, the Rt. Rev. Olusola Ajayi, Bishop of the Diocese of Ekiti, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, commended Governor Oyebanji for positively impacting the lives of the state’s residents. He lauded the Governor for executing 295 projects within one year, emphasizing the significance of compassionate and purposeful leadership.
The Governor expressed his gratitude and attributed the achievements of his first year in office to divine grace, assuring the people of Ekiti that their welfare remains a priority. He pledged to ensure that the 2024 Federal Budget incorporates the necessary funds for the rehabilitation of federal roads in the state.
In conclusion, Governor Oyebanji underscored his commitment to serving the people, declaring, “What struck me in the sermon by the bishop is what God has done in our state, and we return all the glory to God.”
Dignitaries at the thanksgiving service included Senator Ajibola Basiru, APC National Secretary; Mrs. Monisade Afuye, Ekiti Deputy Governor; Mr. Adeoye Aribasoye, Ekiti Assembly Speaker; Erelu Bisi Fayemi, former Ekiti First Lady; Prof. Modupe Adelabu, former Ekiti Deputy Governor; and Yemi Adaramodu, Senator representing Ekiti South, among others.
