Former Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State has publicly praised the performance of the current Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, highlighting his skill in uniting political leaders from various backgrounds within the state. Speaking in Ado Ekiti during the commissioning of two significant road projects—the Agric Olope-Odo Ado-Moferere road and GRA 3rd extension road—Fayemi noted that such unity among leaders is a rare talent that not all politicians possess, especially within a two-year timeframe. This commendation comes amid an era where collaborative governance is vital for peace and development, emphasizing that fostering unity is crucial for a functional political system.
Fayemi’s remarks extend further to complement Oyebanji’s adherence to the Ekiti State Transition Law, which mandates the continuation of uncompleted projects initiated by previous administrations. He referred to this commitment as a critical aspect of excellent leadership. The former governor expressed pride in the way Oyebanji has maintained and completed projects started during his tenure, mentioning that he has seen a significant effort from the current leadership in delivering essential services to the people of Ekiti. His approval also aligns with ongoing endorsements within various groups advocating for Oyebanji’s second term.
Addressing the continuity theme that Fayemi ran his campaigns on, he reflected on past experiences when uncompleted projects were left abandoned, emphasizing the value of ongoing development in the state. He noted that Oyebanji’s administration has continued many of the initiatives he had implemented, including key road projects and an initiative to provide minimum wage and timely salaries for government employees, retirees, and pensioners. Fayemi indicated that such steady and thoughtful leadership enhances the overall welfare of the populace and builds trust in governance.
In his response to Fayemi’s commendations, Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude for the strong foundation laid by his predecessor, stating that he inherited crucial projects that he aims to complete before embarking on his initiatives. He recognized Fayemi’s mentorship and support, indicating that the continuity of these projects reflects a shared commitment to the public good. Oyebanji asserted the importance of viewing these projects as belonging to the citizens of Ekiti, thereby reinforcing community ownership and accountability in governance.
The significance of the roads was further elaborated by the State Commissioner for Works, Mr. Sola Adebayo. He underscored that the newly commissioned roads play a vital role in enhancing transportation connectivity in and around Ado Ekiti, creating opportunities for local farmers, traders, and commuters, thus facilitating economic activities. Adebayo also reiterated the Governor’s commitment to building infrastructure that promotes employment generation and efficient service delivery in critical areas like health.
In a show of solidarity, community leaders, including Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello, expressed their appreciation for the new infrastructure, emphasizing its potential for transformation in their respective neighborhoods. They articulated a commitment to aiding Oyebanji’s re-election campaign to ensure the ongoing progress of the state. This community-driven approach speaks to the potential for sustainable development when government initiatives align with local needs and aspirations, thereby fostering a culture of civic participation and engagement in the political process. Overall, the collaborative spirit between outgoing and current leadership in Ekiti State is positioned as a model for governance that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens.
