By John Odunayo
The chairmen of the 38 local governments and local council development areas in Ekiti State have hailed Governor Biodun Oyebanji for the developments witnessed in the state under his administration.
The chairmen, under the aegis of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Ekiti State Chapter, consequently expressed support for the continuity in office of Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term in office.
ALGON State Chairman, Oluwasegun Ojo, flanked by other members, who spoke at a meeting held in Ado Ekiti on Friday, said the support became imperative “in view of the need for continuation of the developments in all spheres, the grassroots inclusive and the autonomy enjoyed in the council areas during Oyebanji’s ongoing first term”.
A communique at the end of the meeting signed by Ojo and made available in Ado Ekiti on Saturday, stated that “the entire members of ALGON, Ekiti State Chapter hereby resolve to express our collective endorsement of Mr Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, for a second term in office”.
The communique stated, “Within his (Oyebanji’s) short time in office, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, profound commitment to the well-being of our people and has charted a clear vision for the future of Ekiti State.
“Mr Governor has kept faith with the six pillars of his administration. We have witnessed significant advancements in infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, and education, alongside a steadfast dedication to economic development and social justice.
“His handling of LGA/LCDA affairs has continued to receive accolades even beyond the shores of our state. Mr Governor’s inclusive policies and innovative initiatives have not only addressed immediate concerns, but have also laid a solid foundation for long-term prosperity and a brighter future.
“If granted a second term in office, Mr Governor will be able to sustain and consolidate these achievements for the overall benefit of our dear state. We hereby pass a vote of confidence in Mr Governor, Biodun Oyebanji,” the communique stated.
The ALGON chairman said that the endorsement for second term is to pay Oyebanji for his performance, saying, “We are not distracting him, we are rather encouraging him. If someone is performing, there is nothing bad if we encourage him. We are pleading with him to come back to ensure that he continues the job.
“We want him to sustain what he is doing. If he continues like this, Ekiti will continue to improve. We call on all Ekiti people to continue to support Mr Governor for us to have a state of our dream,” he said.
ALGON State Secretary and Chairman, Igbara Odo/Ogotun LCDA, Mrs Bukola Olowolaju, who, at the meeting, moved the motion for endorsement of the governor for another term, in a chat with journalists, said that the move was in view of the governor’s good works.
Olowolaju said, “What we have done is in tune with the minds of all sections of Ekiti people – marketwomen, civil servants, retirees, artisans and transporters. The people of Ekiti are impressed by the good works we are experiencing through the governor. I only appeal to Ekiti people that we should come together again and give the governor support for a second term so that the good works can continue”.
ALGON State Treasurer and Ikole West LCDA Chairman, Mosunmola Adeyemo, lauded Oyebanji, saying, “Our governor gave the local governments autonomy. He does not interfere with our funds and people have seen the attendant development in the councils. With Governor Oyebanji, we are progressing, we are doing well. Let us support him with all we have”.
