OYEBANJI STANDING TALL BETWEEN OMOLUABI AND PERFORMANCE.

OYEBANJI STANDING TALL BETWEEN OMOLUABI AND PERFORMANCE.

By Adekoya Lateeph Adewumi

On Sunday, October 6, 2024, at 6 pm, I received a congratulatory call from a friend regarding my recent appointment. It had been a while since we last spoke, December 2023 to be exact, but I was familiar with his interest in getting political forecasts from me.

After exchanging pleasantries and inquiring about my family, he swiftly shifted to the topic at hand: "Your Governor is asking for a second term." I sought clarification, "You mean BAO?" He confirmed, distinguishing Governor Biodun Oyebanji from Lagos State's Governor Sanwo-Olu, who had already begun his second and final term.

As I prepared to respond, I overheard his wife reminding him to accompany her to fellowship. I seized the moment to offer advice: "Attend fellowship with your wife and take some time to study Proverb 16:7. We'll discuss it further when you return." His curiosity was piqued, "What does Proverb 16:7 have to do with this? Is BAO's name mentioned?" I encouraged him to explore the verse and its relevance. Two hours later, my friend called back, eager to resume our discussion on Governor Oyebanji's second-term bid. "Adekoya, why are your people supporting BAO's re-election when he's only halfway through his first term?" he asked.

Well, my dear brother, I know you’re eager to hear my thoughts on the buzz surrounding Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s second term. I appreciate your interest in Ekiti State’s affairs, despite not being from here. You’ve always been passionate about politics, even if you’re sceptical about the players. Let me tell you, BAO is a unique leader. His wealth of experience has shaped him into a pragmatic, humane, and level-headed individual. As you’re not based in Ekiti, your perspective on him might differ from ours. Allow me to share some of the notable infrastructure projects underway.

Upon assuming office, BAO promised to complete his predecessor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi’s, unfinished projects before initiating new ones. He’s been steadfast in keeping that promise. For instance, the Cargo Airport is nearing completion, with ongoing construction of Control Tower, Emergency Operations Office, Fire Service Station, Car Parks, Weather Stations, Power House with a brand-new 500KVA generator

The airport’s operational launch will soon boost agriculture, investment, and our state’s economy. There’s also the new ring road, a first-of-its-kind policy initiative, linking Iworoko to the Ekiti State International Cargo Airport and the Ekiti Knowledge Zone. It will traverse Iworoko, Are, Afao, Araromi Obo, Igbogun and terminate at Aso Ayegunle and Ijan Ekiti area. This road will: Enhance Trade and Commerce, Promote Tourism and Facilitate Easy Movement of Agricultural Produce.

Additionally, the flyover construction at Ijigbo junction to the old garage area in Ado Ekiti has commenced. Our Ikogosi Warm Spring has been revitalized, attracting local and foreign tourists, and hosting business meetings, conferences, and exhibitions.

Ekiti State was selected for the Nigerian Investment Certification Programme for States (NICPS) pilot program, launched by the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). With the European Union’s support, this initiative aims to transform Ekiti into an investor-friendly haven, driving economic growth . Our state boasts the highest number of professors in Nigeria, 1,825 out of 12,600, making us rich in skilled workforce. Through comprehensive assessments, streamlined administrative processes, and enhanced investor communication, the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC) aims to bolster Ekiti’s ease of doing business. Governor Biodun Oyebanji (BAO) is committed to establishing robust institutions that will sustain growth and development, much like those in the renowned State of Aquatic Splendour. Ekiti is now open for business in various sectors, including: Tourism, Agriculture Economy, Technology Advancement, Art and Culture  and Job Creation.

The “Bring Back Youth into Agriculture” program has already inspired hundreds of young people to engage in high-yield crop production through mechanization. Cluster farms have been established across the state, covering: North (Oke Ako, Iyemero, Igede, and Ayede) Central (Aramoko) South (Emure and Ikere). This initiative will generate employment, income, and food surplus through commercialization.

Ore, are you there? I’m with you, he replied after many minutes of dead silence from his end. It is pertinent let you know that  Ekiti State ranks first in ease of doing business with a score of 61.27%, surpassing major states like Lagos (52.73%), Kaduna (59.76%), Kano (49.81%), Ondo (53.75%), and Oyo (51.29%). To mitigate the effects of fuel subsidy removal and economic hardship, BAO has introduced economic measures worth over 12 billion naira. These measures will have a far-reaching impact on salary earners, micro, and small business owners, increasing their disposable income coupled with the new minimum wage coming on board.

As a commited APC member, I firmly believe that BAO’s administration has demonstrated exceptional leadership, earning the respect of opposition leaders, including Ayo Fayose and Chief Segun Oni. BAO’s commitment to “Ekiti First, Ekiti Together, and Ekiti Forward” has brought peace and cooperation among stakeholders, a testament to his humble and visionary leadership. Like I told you before your wife dragged you to fellowship, Proverb 16:7 says when a man’s ways pleases the Lord, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.  Meaningful growth and development can’t thrive in an atmosphere of political turmoil, mistrust, and unrest. Genuine progress requires a peaceful environment, and this is a principle Governor Oyebanji, a seasoned political scientist, firmly grasps. His demonstration of respect and humility, reflecting the values of Omoluabism, towards elders across party lines, showcases his impeccable upbringing and training.

I recall our discussion before the February 2023 election, where I analysed Asiwaju’s chances against Atiku and others. You disagreed with my perspective, but the outcome vindicated my stance. When you asked why I was already advocating for Oyebanji’s second term, halfway through his first, I emphasized that it’s due to numerous reasons. Chief among them is his exceptional capacity for meticulous governance, proactive responses to issues affecting our daily lives, businesses, and well-being.

For instance, in a couple of months ago,  Oyebanji swiftly addressed the gruesome murder of two monarchs in Ekiti North and the kidnapping of school children in Emure Ekiti, ensuring the perpetrators were apprehended. Such decisive actions demonstrate his commitment to security and justice. Furthermore, we aspire to replicate the unbroken progressive governance that has made Lagos a model institution, worthy of emulation by other states.

Happy 2nd anniversary to Ekiti Kete!