AGBEYEWA FARMS LIMITED DEBUNKS ODO-ORO COMMUNITY'S LAND ENCROACHMENT ALLEGATIONS.

AGBEYEWA FARMS LIMITED DEBUNKS ODO-ORO COMMUNITY'S LAND ENCROACHMENT ALLEGATIONS.

Agbeyewa Farms Limited, a leading agricultural company, has addressed recent allegations of land encroachment made against it by the Odo-Oro community. In the petition written to the State Governor, His Excellency, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, in which a copy was also shared with the press, the community alleged that Agbeyewa Farms encroached its land and destroyed all her economic trees.

 

In a response to this allegation, the company firmly believes these allegations are completely false, unfounded, misguided, and misdirected, aiming to gain public sympathy and tarnish the company's reputation.

 

In a release addressed to the press in Ado-Ekiti and signed by the company's Director of Corporate Communications and Community Engagement, Dauda Lawal, the company said it followed due diligence in the acquisition of the 5,001 hectares of land allocated to it by the government of Ekiti State.

 

"We followed all due process and due diligence in the acquisition of the 5,001 hectares of land in 2021. According to the document and mapping at the state Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, we were made to know that the 5,001 hectares of land covered five communities, namely, Ipao, Odo-Oro, Itapaji, Esun and Oke Ako. We made all necessary monetary payments directly to government accounts, and a Certificate of Occupancy (CofO) was issued to us by the state government. The entire process of this land acquisition was made possible through the State Ministry of Agriculture and the State Directorate of Land Bureau."

 

Lawal emphasized that Agbeyewa Farms did not engage in any destruction of any economic trees as alleged in the Odo-Oro petition.

 

"We have been operating with due regard to all interests on the land, and we never engaged in any destruction of economic trees nor engage in any under-the-table transactions or sign agreements outside official government channels as the Odo-Oro community alleged in their petitions."

 

"Also, we never signed any Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Odo-Oro or any community on compensation. Instead, such a claim of compensation should have been directed to the state government, which had earlier assured all communities that compensation would be paid to all the affected communities whose land was part of the land dealings."

 

Lawal claimed that since 2021, Agbeyewa Farms has been operating within the allocated 5,100 hectares, which also fall within the government-gazetted Special Agro-industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ).

 

"The company has not worked outside this area covered in the CofO issued by the state government, so one would ask: On what basis is the allegations of encroachment by the Odo-Oro community?" Lawal stated.

 

Regarding compensation issues, Lawal stated that the government is the only entity that can address these concerns. However, he said Agbeyewa Farms would continue to dialogue and engage with the people of Odo-Oro and other communities within their operations area.

 

"As a responsible corporate citizen, Agbeyewa Farms remains committed to promoting sustainable agriculture, job creation, economic growth, and community development engagement."

 

"Our company has been operating in Ekiti State for over three years, cultivating and aggregating cassava, while providing employment opportunities for over 1,000 people directly and indirectly. We have plans to create thousands of more jobs and forge partnerships for shared prosperity and wealth creation. Our Corporate Social Responsibility effort is also top-notch, and evidence is available across the state to judge us."

 

Lawal harped that Agbeyewa Farms is a multi-billion private investment initiative that must be protected by the government and its agencies while the company would continue to build on its community development initiatives across all host communities for shared prosperity.

 

"We are driving this initiative in partnership with the Ekiti State Government while also collaborating with multilateral development partners to establish the biggest Cassava Processing Plants in Nigeria in Ekiti State before the end of 2026. It is on record today that Agbeyewa is the biggest cassava farm in Nigeria while hoping to be the biggest agro-allied investments company in Africa," Lawal stated.

 

Agbeyewa Farms urges the Odo-Oro community to direct its concerns to the Ekiti State government, which allocated the said land. The company believes that no development can take place nor thrive in an atmosphere of crisis and unclear land disputes with communities.

University of Ibadan decorates Oyebanji as UI@75 Ambassador.

University of Ibadan decorates Oyebanji as UI@75 Ambassador. 

Ekiti State Governor Mr Biodun Oyebanji has been decorated with the prestigious University of Ibadan UI@75 Ambassador in recognition of his exemplary leadership and outstanding contributions to the development of education, good governance, community welfare, as well as national development.

Presenting the award at a brief ceremony at the Executive Council Chamber, Governor’s Office, in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Kayode Adebowale, said the honour was in recognition of the Governor’s visionary leadership, which has led to the implementation of several educational reforms, infrastructure upgrade as well as provision of critical resources for schools and universities in Ekiti State.

He noted that the Governor’s efforts have had a positive impact on the academic community, not just in Ekiti, but across the nation. This , he said have impressed the management of the University, leading to his decoration as an ambassador.

Prof Adebowale maintained that in less than two years as Governor, Oyebanji had demonstrated capacity and redefined governance in the state through his inclusive governance approach which has mobilized elites, traditional institutions, artisans women, and youth for the development and progress of the state.

While congratulating the Governor on the recognition, the Vice Chancellor expressed confidence that the Governor would continue to be a model, inspiring the next generation of leaders as well as continuing to represent the university well as an ambassador of the higher citadel of learning.

Governor Oyebanji, in his acceptance speech, expressed his deep gratitude to the management of the University of Ibadan and the entire University community  for the recognition, stating that it was a reflection of the collective effort of the people of Ekiti State and his administration who had given him a platform to serve.

 

Emphasizing the importance of education as the key to unlocking the full potential of the nation’s youth and affirming his administration’s continued support for policies aimed at boosting the quality of education, Governor Oyebanji  pledged to strengthen collaborations with institutions of higher learning, particularly the University of Ibadan, to enhance academic research, innovation, and capacity building.

The Governor who disclosed that he had a sentimental attachment to the University of Ibadan, not only because he did his master’s degree at the University, but because a good number of his family- including his father, wife and two children are also products of the Premier University. He added that he also met his wife at the University.

Acknowledging the role of the University of Ibadan in shaping the intellectual and leadership landscape of Nigeria, especially the institution’s rich history of producing distinguished scholars and professionals who have contributed immensely to the country’s development, Governor Oyebanji urged the university to continue its mission of excellence and innovation, particularly in addressing the challenges facing the Nigerian educational system.

 

While assuring them of his commitment to carry on with his good works and continue representing the institution in a good manner, the Governor promised to work closely with the university and other stakeholders to drive initiatives that will ensure sustainable educational growth and development in Nigeria.

“Let me start on a note of appreciation for the honour done Ekiti people today, I am extremely grateful to the management and the chairman of the anniversary committee for counting Ekiti lucky to receive this award, I am also grateful to my wife who convinced me to accept this, because, this is the first award I will personally receive.

“My family has a long history with University of Ibadan, I was just telling the VC that my father graduated from UI, I also had the privilege of doing my masters in UI and my wife did her first degree there and I also convinced all my children to attend UI, so, we had that history with UI.

“I am also aware that to have been decorated as an ambassador of UI will impose great responsibility on me, I have listened deeply to your speech sir in terms of my conduct, character, and performance. I promise you, God helping me that I will not bring to disrepute, the reputation of the institution. I also know that the reward for hard work is more work and this will impose a lot of responsibility on me

 

Also at the event were, Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Wife of the Governor, Dr. (Mrs.) Olayemi Oyebanji, Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Members of the State Executive Council, University of Ibadan Management team, among others.

No fewer than 15 alumni of the University holding various senior positions in the government of Ekiti State graced the event.

Oyebanji's Achievements in Agriculture and Rural Development: A Path to Food Security and Prosperity.

Oyebanji's Achievements in Agriculture and Rural Development: A Path to Food Security and Prosperity.

By Olamide Akinwumi. 

Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s administration has made agriculture and rural development a cornerstone of its governance strategy, recognizing the sector’s critical role in ensuring food security and driving economic growth. Food security has remained a key priority of this government. "We believe strategic investments in our agricultural resources, accompanying investments in our rural areas, will position our state for sustained growth and prosperity," says Governor Oyebanji.

To this end, the administration has embarked on the following interventions:

Agricultural Development Initiatives:

● Signing of MOU with Cavista Holding to boost cassava farming and develop offtake markets for farmers in Ekiti State

● Allocation of 1,535 hectares of arable land to 66 farmers and investors across the two farm settlements and fivefarm centres

● Payment of N60M as counterpart funding for the World Bank-financed L-PRES counterpart contribution to develop the livestock sector, and the activation of $800,000 support from the World Bank

● Collaboration with FG to commence registration of farmers for the FG National AGRO pocket scheme (NAGS-AP) and distribution of inputs

● Mapping and profiling of livestock farmers. (11,000 farmers has been profiled)

● Set up of Grievance Redress Platforms in each of the Local Government to the State level to address the friction between herders and farmers 

● Subsidized mechanization services at 50% rate to more than one thousand beneficiaries

● More than 15,000 kg of improved maize seeds; 3,000kg of faro 44 and 59 rice seeds; 20,000 seedlings of oil palm; 20,000 cocoa seedlings; and 10,000 cashew seedlings were distributed to farmers

● Agro chemicals worth N80m and 18,000 bags of assorted fertilizer to all farmers within the state at no cost to the farmers.

 

*Fadama Ekiti CARES Interventions:*

● Procurement of Agricultural production asset/ small-scale processing Equipment to 469 farmers

● Distribution of 38,507-day-old chicks to farmers

● Distribution of 3,618 bags of poultry feeds to farmers

● Distribution of 10,000 bags of maize to livestock farmers

● Distribution of 42,150 fish seeds to farmers

● Distribution of 1,017 goats to farmers

● Distribution of 580 pigs to farmers

● Rehabilitation of 62 km of farm roads across the State

● Upgrade of 7 wet markets across the State.

 

*Youth in Agriculture:*

● Engagement of 120 participants in the Ekiti Broilers Production Scheme (EBOPS) for cohorts 1 and 2. The first cohort (20 youths) raised and produced 40,000 table sized chicken and made profit of more than N20m which has served as the seed capital to set them as poultry owners

● Engagement of 125 participants in horticultural production

● Donation of farmers hub and greenhouse by Syngenta Foundation

● Desiltation of dams and laying of pipes from the dam to the farm plots in Erifun to ensure all the year vegetable production

● Renovation of Agricultural building and furnishing of befitting accommodation for youths at Erifun

● Engagement of 913 youths in the Bring-Back-the-Youth into Agric Programme in Partnership with YSJ Limited, cultivating various crops in land clusters across the State.

*Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP):*

After the paymnent of our counterpart contribution of almost N1 billion, the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP), has commenced and is now delivering on the following road construction/rehabilitation projects:

● Construction of 8.4 Enu Odi-Itaeku-Igirigiri road

● Construction of 5.70km Omisanjana-Ben Folarin-Oke Aso road

● Construction of 7.21km Ikogosi-Aba Osun-Aba Oriokuta-Ikogosi road

● Construction of 8.77km Oye-Are road

● Construction of 1.93km Afolu-Odofin road

● Construction of 6.68km Erinmope-Irare-Ikosun road

● Construction of 3.10km Ilupeju-Igbo Egan- Ayede road

● Construction of 4.60km Igbole-Egan-Iropara road

● Construction of 5.31km Ise Road-Imola

● Construction of 2.85km Owode-Anaye road

● Construction of 3.40km FMS-Oke Ako road

● Construction of 2.05km Ara-Ekameta School road

● Construction of 5.10km Iye-Isapa-Olopomeji-Ikun road, and

 Additionally 32 Farm clusters have been created for communities and cooperatives within the state. The state government borne the cost of land clearing and provide other support to activate the clusters. The clusters and beneficiaries are listed below: 

 

*INFRASTRUCTURE AND INDUSTRIALIZATION:*

To continue to maintain our upward trajectory in the ease of doing business, expand access to opportunities for our people, attract investments, and ease the life of our people, infrastructure development is crucial. To this end, we continue to invest massively in infrastructure development, targeting industrialization as a key focus area. This has remained a major focus of this administration since its inception. Our aggressive drive to massively improve infrastructure and industrialize the state has impacted multiple vital sectors of the economy including power, transportation, housing, environment, water and sanitation. 

 

*Power Infrastructure:*

Given how pivotal power supply is to economic and industrial development, we are making very determined efforts to ensure that Ekiti is set on a sustainable path of improved power. To achieve this, we have embarked on the following power infrastructure projects: 

● Establishment and transfer of regulatory control of the electricity market to Ekiti State Electricity Regulatory Bureau

● Identification of 4 Meter Assess Providers (MAP) and collaboration the MAPs BEDC and Ekiti State to provide prepaid meters for households at affordable cost, starting with 5 pilot communities, Erinmope, Ode, Aisegba, Imesi, Ipole-Iloro.

● Issuance of an Order on tariff setting for Ekiti State customers under BEDC/IBEDC services Areas in Ekiti State.

● Issuance of an Order on mandatory metering of electricity customers by the Discos

● Issuance of an Order on Standardization of Electricity matters of testing and certification of electricity projects for connection to all grids for all electricity distribution company operating in Ekiti State.

● With a view of increasing the commercial hours andsecurity across the state, several solar streetlight projects were executed to enhance security and increase the business hours for State’s economy

● Extension of 33KV network from 132KV Omisanjana Transmission substation to Baptist High School and Connection of Ilawe 33KV line to Erijiyan and Ikogosi to boost industrialisation and tourism in Ekiti State

● Extension of electricity and installation of transformer at Aba Iya Medi and adjoining communities, Ado Ekiti

● Replacement and installation of transformers in various communities

● Rehabilitation of 33KVA network from Ilumoba to Ikole Ekiti

● Extension of 33KVA electricity network from Ilawe to Igbara Odo Ekiti

● Extension of electricity to Abegunde Avenue and Akeju Lane in Emure 

● Extension of 33 low tension concrete poles (8.33m) 0.415kv 3 phase of neutral line at Olorunsogo street, Ise/Orun Local Government, Ise-Ekiti

● Rehabilitation and connection of Erijiyan, Ikogosi back to the National Grid

● Rehabilitation and connection of Ipole Iloro back to the National Grid 

● Rehabilitation and connection of Ijan, Ilumoba, Aisegba, Agbado, Imesi, Ode, Isinbode, Egbe, Iro Ayeteju and Omuo in Aiyekire back to the National Grid

● Extension of electricity from Omuo Ekiti to Eda Ile, Ikun Oba, Araromi and Ilasa Ekiti  

● Extension of 33KV line from Eruku Kwara State to Agricultural Zone in Iyemero/Installation of transformer

● Extension of IPP to Textile Industry, Basiri, Ado Ekiti,Elders Person’s Resort, Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State and other strategic locations

● Extension of Electricity and installation of Transformer at Efon Alaye Water Treatment Plant (WTP) of Ekiti State Water Corporation to enhance water supply (on-going).

● Purchase of 16Nos. 500KVA transformers for distribution.

 

*Transportation Infrastructure:*

To improve our transportation infrastructure, we have embarked on several critical transportation projects.  These projects are vital for the development of our state, and betterment of the lives of our people. Some of the projects include: 

● Reconstruction of Ikere-Igbara Odo Road

● Construction of Ekiti Ring Road Phase 1

● Construction of flyover bridge from Ajilosun (Union Bank) to Okeyinmi (First Bank), Ado-Ekiti

● Construction of Obisesan – Oke Ala – Basiri Road, Ado Ekiti

● Rehabilitation of Ikere-Ise-Emure Ekiti Road

● Rehabilitation of Ilawe-Erijiyan Road

● Construction of dual carriageway on GRA III Extension — State Pavilion Road

● Rehabilitation of Ado — Iworoko— Ifaki Road

● Rehabilitation of Igbara-Odo-Ikogosi Road

● Re-construction of Ilawe-Ikere Road

● Re-construction of Itapa-Omu-Ijelu Road

● Re-construction of Ilukuo-Ijurin-Ipoti Road

● Re-construction of Ikole-Ara-Isinbode Road

● Rehabilitation of Igede-Ilawe Roao

● Repair of several roads within Ado Ekiti

● Completion of all necessary civil works and installation of relevant navigational equipment at the Ado Ekiti Airport

● Agric Olope, De-Head/Faglo and GRA Extension Phase Iroads will be commissioned in the course of our second year anniversary. All the roads are complemented with solar street lights for illumination.

These achievements highlight Governor Oyebanji's commitment to driving food security, fostering prosperity, and ensuring a thriving, sustainable future for Ekiti State.

Our Govt Adopting Unique Rural Policy to Combat Devt. Deficit – Oyebanji.

Our Govt Adopting Unique Rural Policy to Combat Devt. Deficit – Oyebanji.

….Fayemi rates governor’s performance index high.

The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has declared that his government deliberately adopted unique Rural Development Policy to unlock the potentials of all towns and ensure that none of the 140 communities in the State suffer neglect.

This came as former Governor Kayode Fayemi commended Governor Oyebanji for his stunning performance in the last two years, describing him as a pride to the progressive fold.

The governor spoke on Saturday, at the 32nd edition of Isan Day ceremonies and launching of N250 million development fund, held in Isan Ekiti, in Oye Local Government Area of the State.

Oyebanji, represented by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, said his love for community development spurred the even distribution of projects he spearheaded across the three Senatorial districts to ensure that no town suffer unwarranted neglect.

For his development strategies to spiral and garner expected traction and acceptability, Oyebanji appealed to the communities to promote the concept of self -development, by aggressively pursuing projects that could complement government’s efforts

“These also reflected in the quantum of intra and inter-town road infrastructures, opening of access rural roads to boost agriculture, establishment of cluster farming in Ipao and Emure axis, engagements with towns to help build their potentials in arts and culture, and many others”, the governor stated

Underscoring the kernel of peace to sustainable development , the governor posited that Isan Ekiti has no alternative to peace and unity, being the host community to public institutions of interest across the country.

“Don’t forget that your town is a host to a fledging Ekiti State Polytechnic, Isan Ekiti and The Nigerian Army College. Under this context, we expect that the town must unite to promote and maintain the peace you have always enjoyed, so that more dividends of democracy can be extended to your doorsteps under the current government”.

Saluting the town for sustaining the ceremony to promote self development concept being encouraged by his administration, Oyebanji, said he had demonstrated uncommon passion for the growth of Arts, Culture and Tourism, as thematic areas of policy thrust of his administration.

Oyebanji reiterated support for the occasion of this nature geared towards celebrating the unity and cultural richness of their people, as well as mapping out strategies for development, describing this as veritable avenue to support the government in its peace- building initiatives.

Emphasizing the imperative of peace and unity to development, former Governor Kayode Fayemi, urged his kinsmen to continue to support Oyebanji’s government to attract more development to Isan Ekiti and the state at large.

“Our governor has done well in the last two years, though I am not saying he has done everything. Whoever says he hasn’t done anything must have his eyes examined medically. No governor can do everything, is a gradual and steady process.

“The governor has surprised us by his contributions to development through series of projects. If there are areas yet to be touched, I know he must have been told and he will do the right thing to touch those places at the appropriate time”, he said.

In his submission, the Onisan of Isan Ekiti, Oba Gabriel Ayodele Adejuwon, appreciated Governor Oyebanji and all the sons and daughters of the town for their invincible passion to peace and unity of the community,

Particularly, Oba Adejuwon applauded the governor for donating a transformer to the town for improved electricity generation .

Oba Adejuwon, appealed to his subjects to rededicate themselves to unity and peace that can bolster the existing partnership with the government to ramp up the development being witnessed in the kingdom.

“Governor Biodun Oyebanji also donated a building and utility vehicle to our Command School. He also donated fund for us to be able to fence our palace. So, we are solidly behind his second term bid, so that he can complete his good and positively impactful projects”, the monarch said.

Present at the occasion are: Former First Lady, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, a House of Representatives member representing Ekiti North Constituency 1, Hon. Akin Rotimi, Ekiti State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dayo Apata(SAN), politicians, community leaders, among others.

Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Chairman, Hon Oluwatuyi, Boosts Agriculture with Affordable Yam Harvest Sales.

Irepodun/Ifelodun LG Chairman, Hon Oluwatuyi, Boosts Agriculture with Affordable Yam Harvest Sales.

The Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Honourable Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, popularly known as Chenco, has set a new benchmark in agricultural development within the local government. Under his leadership, the LG successfully harvested numerous sizes of yams, which were sold at subsidized rates to residents of Igede, Awo, and neighboring towns.

The initiative, aimed at promoting food security and providing affordable produce to residents, has been widely praised by stakeholders and community members.

Speaking on the success of the program, the Director of Agriculture, Mr. Adesanya O.C., described the initiative as a progressive step towards agricultural revitalization. He commended the chairman's innovative approach to addressing food scarcity and high prices.

Prince Oladimeji Adegoke, the Head of Local Administration (HLA), applauded the chairman's efforts, emphasizing the importance of agriculture in improving the local economy and enhancing the livelihoods of residents.

The Leader of the Legislative Arm, Honourable Mrs. Olagunju Yemisi, also expressed her support for the program, describing it as a "transformative initiative" that has brought relief to many families. She noted that such programs reflect the chairman's dedication to the well-being of the people.

Comrade Aina Olawole-Festus, the NULGE Chairman for Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, expressed appreciation for the new agriculture investments being introduced by the Chairman, highlighting their positive impact on the community. In a similar vein, two market women who benefited from the subsidized yam sales have also commended the initiative, acknowledging the significant relief it has brought to their businesses and the local economy.

Honourable Chenco, while addressing residents, reaffirmed his administration's commitment to implementing more programs that prioritize the welfare of the people. He assured the community that plans are underway for additional agricultural projects and other development initiatives.

The yam harvest initiative has been hailed as a model for grassroots agricultural development, positioning Irepodun/Ifelodun LG as a leader in innovative and inclusive governance.

Asubiojo G.O

Information and Civil Orientation Department. 

Gov Oyebanji felicitates Oba Adejugbe on 79th birthday.

Gov Oyebanji felicitates Oba Adejugbe on 79th birthday.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has congratulated the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, HRM Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, as he celebrates his 79th birthday, describing the first class monarch as an exemplary leader, who has been supportive of development efforts in the state. 

The Governor said standing strong, healthy and focused at seventy- nine with enviable record of accomplishments calls for celebration.

Governor Oyebanji, In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described Oba Adejugbe as a visionary leader who deploys his extensive contact, goodwill and influence in the development of Ado-Ekiti as a prosperous town and a befitting capital city.

Governor Oyebanji said Oba Adejugbe’s love and comittment to the development of Ekiti State reflects in all his actions and cooperation with the state government, adding that the monarch is always ready to take on any responsibility that would fast track the development of the state. 

He added that Oba Adejugbe’s resourcefulness and generosity of spirit have also endeared him to all former chief executives of the state as well as political

leaders based on his reputation for always providing wise counsels and interventions aimed at ensuring the state move in the right direction. 

The Governor also recalled the roles played by Oba Adejugbe during the struggle for the creation of Ekiti State in the nineties, stressing that the monarch is truly a great leader with huge and positive influence and who is untiring in championing good causes. 

“Oba Adejugbe’s life has been a blessing not only to Ado - Ekiti indigenes but to the non indigenes as well. He is father- figure to all, who is deserving of all the honour and celebration. 

“Kabiyesi’s exemplary leadership contributes in no small way in making Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, a peaceful and accommodating town where people from different parts of the country live, work and invest without any fear whatsoever. 

” Today, Ado-Ekiti is home to everyone regardless of tribe, language, culture or religion. This accounts for the tremendous transformation and prosperity being witnessed in the town and we remain thankful to Kabiyesi for his exemplary leadership. 

“On behalf of myself, my wife and the good people of Ekiti State, I congratulate Kabiyesi, HRM Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe and wish him good health, long life and more impactful years on the throne of his forebears,” the statement added.

Who is Afraid of an Automatic Ticket?

Who is Afraid of an Automatic Ticket?

By Dr. JMO Ekundayo and Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, on behalf of BAO BACKERS 2030.

The concept of an automatic ticket for an incumbent governor or president refers to a situation where a sitting governor or president, as a member of a political party, seeks re-election and is typically guaranteed the party's nomination without facing significant competition in a primary election. While the notion of incumbents receiving an automatic ticket is not new, it has precedents in established and advanced democracies globally.

It is a truism that certain critics view automatic ticket for an incumbent as an aberration that hampers internal democracy or competition within viable party members. They argue that competitive elections foster a sense of participation, inclusion and engagement within the party. However, it is essential to recognize that an automatic ticket policy does not inherently preclude internal discussion or engagement. A well-structured party can uphold democratic processes through thorough vetting and consensus-building among its members, even when there is no contested primary. This has happened in mature democracies around the world with the political parties of the incumbent waxing stronger. The fear of implosion within the ruling party if a consensus candidate is endorsed is therefore jejune, pedestrian and puerile.

Saliently and succinctly stated, it is indeed possible to unite behind a capable incumbent, while still fostering internal harmony and inclusion. In a typical friendly and dynamic political landscape, where apparent opposition to the incumbent is seemingly silent, supporting the incumbent governor can enhance party cohesion, allowing members to unanimously work together toward common goals rather than entrenching unhealthy competition against one another within the same party.

This scenario often arises due to several factors, including the governor's established political popularity, strong party loyalty, and perceived effective governance. In Ekiti, for instance, His Excellency, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, popularly call BAO by his numerous adherents and admirers, has distinguished himself as a unique political figure who understands the essence of collaborative and inclusive governance. He has displayed exemplary leadership acumen to most Ekitikete in colour, context and content, than any other man in the saddle since the creation of Ekiti State. His strategic and humane engagement with political personalities, regardless of their party affiliations, has endeared him to a broad spectrum of Ekiti residents. Furthermore, his uncommon style of interaction with the creme la creme of Ekiti such as the likes of Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, Barrister Femi Falana, SAN, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, Senator Adeyeye, Senator Olujinmi, etc. is unique and uncommon in the political disposition in the land of honour.

Remarkably, Governor Oyebanji has maintained close rapport with party leaders while initiating populist projects and sustainable programmes, along with various community development initiatives in the trajectory towards the *shared prosperity* mantra of his administration. He has successfully cultivated a near-perfect relationship with political stakeholders in Ekiti, earning unprecedented loyalty, even from members of opposition parties. This unyielding acceptance further solidifies the case for his automatic adoption across party lines.

Ultimately, endorsing an automatic ticket for him within his party could be a strategic decision, yielding significant benefits for both the party and the State. Contrary to the concerns that automatic ticket policy undermines internal democracy, it is crucial to reaffirm that such a policy does not diminish internal dialogue or engagement. A unified front around a capable incumbent, like Governor Oyebanji, can still foster internal cohesion whilst channeling party efforts and resources towards collective and rewarding objectives.

Additionally, the claim that eliminating competitive primaries will negatively impact economic activity is an oversimplification. It is widely known globally that good governance engenders and enhances economic activities much more than ephemeral gains that organizing a local primary election can garner for a set of people. In this vein, while campaigns naturally stimulate economic activity, the primary focus should be on effective governance at all times. Going this route will ensure resources tied up in lengthy primary battles could be redirected toward community development, building infrastructure, and programmes that directly benefit constituents. Political parties can also seek alternative funding methods and engagement strategies that do not depend exclusively on candidate campaigns for economic stimulation.

Concerns about power dynamics, particularly the risk of fostering an overly powerful incumbent, merit consideration, but an automatic ticket does not inherently lead to autocracy. An accountable incumbent, like Governor Oyebanji, can maintain transparency and governance structures that prevent the erosion of democratic practices. His proven trustworthiness and rapport with party members reduce the need for competitive pressures typically faced by lesser-known challengers.

While some may view a guaranteed re-election as a pathway to complacency, this does not universally hold true. An effective leader strives for excellence, motivated by a desire to fulfill campaign promises and enhance his legacy — traits Governor Oyebanji has consistently demonstrated. He has also shown a willingness to listen to critiques and comments from constituents, party members and opposing politicians, using this feedback mechanism to remain engaged and responsive to the electorates' needs.

The fear that an adoption policy will create internal division is unfounded, yet it is essential to emphasize that unity can thrive through shared vision and collective goals. The APC leadership—both in Ekiti and nationally— has fostered an inclusive environment, supporting various aspirations while promoting collaboration through effective relationship management. This was clearly manifested in the consensus endorsement of the erstwhile President Muhammadu Buhari for the second term ticket of the ruling APC in the 2019 presidential election.

Those raising concerns about potential legal challenges surrounding the adoption policy must remember that the APC is a living party, adhering to constitutional provisions and adopting potential amendments that allow for consensus around a sole candidate. By ensuring all voices are heard in the decision-making process, the party can limit the risk of legal disputes while enhancing its legitimacy.

On the topic of political evolution and youth engagement, the automatic adoption of Governor Oyebanji will inject new life into youth inclusion in governance and policymaking. His advocacy for youth involvement bridges the gap between traditional power structures and the aspirations of younger generations, fostering a future-oriented political landscape. Initiatives that prioritize youth engagement within the party will counteract any perceptions of exclusion that may emerge from the adoption policy.

Concerns about setting a dangerous precedent through an automatic ticket are unfounded. Recent examples from around the world demonstrate that incumbents can run with little opposition due to their popularity and party support. For instance, several incumbents in the United States, such as Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis and Iowa’s Governor Kim Reynolds, faced minimal challenges in their Republican primaries.

Given the unique political context of Ekiti, the apparent lack of opposition parties supports the strategic decision to adopt a candidate who has demonstrated both leadership and effectiveness. An automatic ticket for a respected incumbent like Governor Oyebanji serves as a pragmatic response to the current political landscape, emphasizing stability rather than monopolization of power.

In conclusion, while the adoption of an automatic ticket raises legitimate questions regarding democracy, governance, and party unity, it also presents an opportunity for strategic maneuvering that can enhance the effectiveness of both the party and governance in Ekiti. Ultimately, striking a balance between ensuring democratic practices and promoting effective leadership that addresses constituent needs is vital. Open dialogue and inclusive governance can mitigate concerns, resulting in a stronger, more cohesive party that effectively serves the people of Ekiti. The adoption of an automatic ticket policy is not a dismissal of democracy but rather a tactical approach to party politics aimed at promoting stability, unity, and efficiency. By eliminating unnecessary competition, the party positions itself to face the general election with strength and purpose, allowing the incumbent to focus on delivering good governance.

Ours is Ile-iyi, Ile-eye, and an automatic ticket can serve as a tool to uphold this vision and prevent APC Ekiti State from unnecessary internal political bickerings. Hence, automatic ticket for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) is good for the soul of the ruling party, APC.

- By Dr. JMO Ekundayo and Barrister Wale Ojo-Lanre, on behalf of BAO BACKERS 2030.