Governor Oyebanji’s Disappointment and the Dynamics of Political Loyalty in the Digital Age
The recent expression of disappointment by Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, regarding the conduct of some of his political appointees, has shed light on the evolving dynamics of political loyalty in the digital age. Governor Oyebanji’s criticism, centered on the appointees’ perceived inability to defend his administration on social media platforms, underscores the growing importance of online spaces in shaping public perception and political discourse. The governor’s remarks, captured in a widely circulated video, highlight the increasing expectation for political appointees to actively engage in online advocacy and counter-narratives, particularly in the face of criticism or misinformation.
Governor Oyebanji’s frustration appears to stem from a perceived lack of commitment from some appointees, whom he accuses of “eating from both sides” – implying a dual allegiance that prevents them from wholeheartedly defending the administration. This accusation suggests a potential disconnect between the governor’s expectations of loyalty and the actions of some within his inner circle. It raises questions about the motivations and pressures that might lead political appointees to adopt a more passive or ambivalent stance online, even when the administration they serve is facing scrutiny.
The governor’s pointed remark about appointees “collecting salaries every month” adds another layer to the issue, framing their perceived inaction as a breach of the implicit contract that binds them to the administration. This suggests that, in Governor Oyebanji’s view, accepting a government appointment carries with it a responsibility not only to perform assigned duties but also to actively champion the administration’s policies and defend its reputation, especially in the public arena of social media.
The governor’s warning that he is “marking them one by one” and will “come for them at the appropriate time” signals a potential reckoning for those deemed to be falling short of their expected loyalty and online engagement. This strong statement underscores the seriousness with which Governor Oyebanji views the matter and suggests that he considers online advocacy a key component of his appointees’ responsibilities.
The situation in Ekiti State reflects a broader trend in contemporary politics, where social media platforms have become crucial battlegrounds for shaping public opinion and influencing political narratives. Politicians and their appointees are increasingly expected to be adept at navigating these digital spaces, not only to disseminate information and promote their agenda but also to counter opposition narratives and defend against online attacks. This expectation places a significant burden on those in public office, demanding a level of online engagement that was not previously considered a core part of their roles.
Governor Oyebanji’s public rebuke of his appointees serves as a reminder of the evolving demands of political loyalty in the digital age. It highlights the growing importance of online advocacy and the expectation for those in positions of authority to actively defend their administrations and engage in the often-contentious world of social media discourse. The governor’s comments also underscore the potential risks for appointees who are perceived to be failing to meet these new expectations, suggesting that the consequences of online inaction can be significant in the contemporary political landscape.
