President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, for his statesmanlike approach to governance, urging him to continue with his leadership style.
The President also promised to support him in making a greater positive impact on the people of Ekiti State.
Tinubu gave the assurance in Ado Ekiti on Sunday during a thanksgiving service commemorating Oyebanji’s second anniversary, held at the Emmanuel Cathedral Church, Anglican Communion, Okesa, Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital.
The congregation was most thrilled by the presence of former Governors Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose, and Kayode Fayemi at the church service, while both Christian and Muslim clerics offered prayers for the governor and the state government.
The President, who was represented by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, expressed his satisfaction with the strides Oyebanji has made in developing the state. He also praised the governor’s leadership style, which has attracted more citizens to participate in governance.
“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’re enjoying special presidential intervention,” Bamidele said.
“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, who chairs the Ekiti Caucus of the National Assembly, added that Ekiti will be the first state where all APC members and political leaders will agree on a consensus candidate for governor. He assured that lawmakers are ready to partner with Oyebanji to develop Ekiti.
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“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,” Bamidele added.
In his brief address, Governor Oyebanji, visibly elated, thanked the former governors, national and state assembly members, and other stakeholders for their support. He specifically expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for supporting his administration.
Speaking on behalf of the former governors, Fayemi thanked God for the peace and development the state has enjoyed under Oyebanji’s leadership. He, along with former Governors Niyi Adebayo and Ayodele Fayose, emphasized that Oyebanji’s focus on governance, rather than personal ambition, has earned their endorsement for a second term.
“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,” Fayemi stated.
He continued, “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 concluded.
In his sermon, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Ekiti, Most Rev. Andrew Ajayi, praised the governor for his compassionate and aggressive efforts to develop the state by extending roads, electricity, and other public utilities to many communities.
The Bishop 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.
Similarly, the Catholic Bishop of Ekiti, Most Rev. Felix Ajakaye, described the governor as a bridge builder, attributing his widespread support across Ekiti and political lines to this quality.
