…I’ll serve with more humility, patience, Oyebanji assures

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has warned politicians in Ekiti State against declaring their governorship ambitions for 2030 prematurely, saying such moves could distract Governor Biodun Oyebanji and undermine effective governance.

Tinubu gave the warning on Sunday during a special thanksgiving service held at the Anglican Cathedral of Emmanuel, Okesa, Ado-Ekiti, to mark Oyebanji’s inauguration for a second term.

The President urged members of the political class to prioritise the development of Ekiti State over personal political ambitions, stressing that early manoeuvring for the governorship could create unnecessary divisions and hinder the delivery of democratic dividends.

Oyebanji and his deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, were sworn in for a second term on Friday at a ceremony held at the Ekitiparapo Pavilion, New Iyin Road, Ado-Ekiti, attended by Tinubu and other dignitaries.

Represented at the thanksgiving service by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Tinubu commended Oyebanji for completing his first term successfully and urged him to sustain his inclusive leadership style.

Addressing politicians, the President described any attempt to begin a premature campaign for the 2030 governorship election as detrimental to the state’s progress.

The President also urged Oyebanji to remain humble, accessible and committed to the principles that characterised his first administration.

According to him, the governor should consolidate on the achievements of his first term and work towards ensuring continuity in the state’s development.

Oyebanji Promises Better Second Term

In his remarks, Governor Oyebanji thanked the people of Ekiti State for their support and pledged to deliver more democratic dividends during his second term, with particular emphasis on industrialisation, job creation and shared prosperity.

He expressed confidence that the investments in infrastructure during his first term would help attract investors and create an enabling environment for industries to thrive.

Oyebanji, however, said achieving the industrialisation agenda would require cooperation from traditional rulers and communities, particularly on land acquisition for investment projects.

He added that government alone could not achieve the desired economic transformation without the cooperation of the people.

Oyebanji said he was committed to serving the people with humility, patience and a willingness to listen to their concerns.

Bishop Urges Governor to Maintain Integrity

In his sermon, the Bishop of the Diocese of Ekiti, Anglican Communion, the Right Reverend Andrew Olusola Ajayi, urged Oyebanji to regard his position as a responsibility entrusted to him by the people rather than a personal possession.

The cleric commended the governor for completing his first term and encouraged him to remain committed to service, integrity and the welfare of the people.

Dignitaries Attend Thanksgiving Service

The thanksgiving service featured a special musical performance by the Ekiti State First Lady, Professor Olayemi Oyebanji, and her team of choristers.

Former governors Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose and Segun Oni attended the service, while former Governor Kayode Fayemi was represented by his wife, Erelu Bisi Fayemi.

Other dignitaries included Senators Yemi Adaramodu and Cyril Fasuyi, as well as members of the House of Representatives, including Femi Bamisile, Sola Fatoba and Biodun Omoleye.

Former commissioners, special advisers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, organised labour representatives, traders and civil servants were also present at the event.