By Damilola Atunramu
A cross-section of Ilawe Ekiti residents has voiced its unflinching support for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s second term bid, describing it as long overdue. The residents, in an overwhelming display of endorsement on Tuesday, during a community update report by JIROLTV reporter Damilola Atunramu unanimously pointed to the governor’s lofty legacies and initiatives which cut across all ages, tribes, gender, and social status. These impactful projects span critical sectors including road infrastructure, education, and health, and extend to the prompt payment of allowances for ward executives of the party, solidifying his popularity at the grassroots level .
Mr. Tope Arowosegbe, a commercial bike rider popularly known as “Okada,” explained that Governor Oyebanji has been instrumental in fostering continuous harmony among commercial transport organizations. He highlighted the significant reduction in the burden of costs usually incurred on roads when they were in a poor state. “Now that the Governor has repaired all linking roads within the community, it is a strong reason for his 100 percent endorsement from us,” Arowosegbe stated. He further praised the governor for his consistent care for party members at the ward level, acknowledging the pivotal role they play in party unity through the prompt payment of their dues.
The sentiment of fulfillment was echoed by Pa Oyewole Rufus, an octogenarian, who noted the historic construction of the Ikere-Ilawe road. This vital artery had been repeatedly rejected and abandoned by previous governments with empty promises. Pa Rufus commended Governor Oyebanji for not only promising to construct the road but doing so unprecedentedly with quality materials, a move that has boosted inter-community trade and socio-economic activities. “He announced that the whole of Ilawe is solidly behind his second term even beyond,” the report noted.
A similar point was echoed by the duo of Mrs. Apata and Felicia Modupe, who highlighted the reconstruction of the General and Primary Healthcare hospital, which has restored confidence in affordable and seamless public health services. They also applauded the prompt payment of teachers’ salaries and improved welfare packages, including the recent approval of an increased retirement age, grade upscaling, housing, and car loans, signifying a governor who fulfills his promises.
The residents remain unapologetic about their support and have reassured the governor that the Ilawe community will repay his developmental efforts with their votes on election day. Party members have also pledged their unwavering support in the primaries slated for the 27th of this month, confident that victory for Governor Oyebanji is assured.
