A former Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on Political Matters,Senator Babafemi Ojudu, has declared his support for the reelection of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for a second term in office.
The endorsement was made during an expanded meeting of the political group “Ekiti Rebirth Organisation (ERO)” held on Sunday in Ado-Ekiti.
The meeting was attended by the Director General of the group, Hon. Femi Adeleye, Secretary Barrister Toyin Oluwasola, and members representing all 16 Local Government Areas of Ekiti State. During the session, the group announced its decision to back Oyebanji’s bid for a second term.
Ojudu stated that the organization has closely observed the political landscape since Governor Oyebanji took office in October 2022. The group concluded that the governor deserves support to continue his “shared prosperity” agenda for Ekiti.
Reflecting on the political instability, violence, and unrest that plagued the state before 2022, Ojudu noted that under Oyebanji’s leadership, the state has seen a period of peace, stability, and growth. The inclusive leadership style of the governor has been central to fostering a more secure and developed Ekiti.
Ojudu expressed confidence in the governor’s leadership and called for continuity. He emphasized that the group’s endorsement is a commitment to partnership, with a shared responsibility to build a better Ekiti together. He also highlighted that the group’s decision was not driven by personal gain or political convenience but by a genuine desire to see the state progress.
The former presidential aide praised the governor for his inclusive approach to governance, which stands in stark contrast to previous administrations that silenced opposition through violence and intimidation. He also commended the governor for initiating policies and programs focused on improving the lives of citizens, such as infrastructure development, support for small businesses, and investments in agriculture to improve food security.
Ojudu noted that under Governor Oyebanji, Ekiti has experienced unprecedented political stability, with no politically motivated violence or attacks. He stressed that the state has become a safer place for residents and visitors, with people now able to conduct business without fear.
While endorsing the governor for a second term, Ojudu urged the people of Ekiti to support Oyebanji’s reelection to ensure that the progress made so far is sustained and built upon. He also called on the governor to remain committed to improving the state’s economic situation and assured that the group would continue to engage critically with the government, pushing for further improvements and accountability.
“We believe in Governor Oyebanji’s leadership. We see progress and we want continuity. However, our endorsement is not a blank cheque, it is a commitment to partnership – to work alongside his government in building a better Ekiti.
“For a long time, our group has chosen to remain on the sidelines of Ekiti politics-not out of indifference, but out of disappointment. We saw a state drifting away from its ideals, overtaken by deceit where there should have been honesty, inaction where there should have been progress, and personal enrichment where there should have been public service.
“We are here to endorse Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for a second term and to call on the good people of Ekiti State to give him the opportunity to continue steering Ekiti towards growth and prosperity.
“This decision is not based on blind loyalty, personal benefits, or political convenience. We are not sycophants. We are not “bread-and-butter” politicians. We are Ekiti patriots who have sacrificed over the years to guide our people toward meaningful development.
“We received him with cautious optimism, over the last two years, his leadership has reassured us that Ekiti can finally embark on the path of true development.
“For the first time in decades, Ekiti is witnessing leadership that values inclusion over exclusion.
“Unlike in the past , dissent is not met with violence or intimidation; opposition figures and critics have not been attacked or silenced, even when he (Oyebanji) is abused, insulted and lied against, he maintains a dignified posture.”
He continued, Under Governor Oyebanji, Ekiti has enjoyed unprecedented political stability, no assassinations, no politically motivated attacks, no acid baths, no intimidation, this is in stark contrast to previous administration.
“Today, that era of fear is over. People visit and conduct business in Ekiti freely, without looking over their shoulders. This is what leadership should guarantee – peace and safety.
“The renowned journalist however called on the governor to remain dedicated and committed in improving the state’s economic fortunes, assuring the people that the group would continue to critically engage the government.
“While governor Oyebanji has made remarkable strides, no administration is perfect. There are areas that require further attention and as a progressive organization, we will continue to push for improvement.
“We are not here today praise- we are here to support with critical engagement. We will call our shortcomings, demand accountability and ensure the governor stays on track. That is the role of responsible citizens,” Ojudu concluded.
