Politics
First Back-to-Back Governor Admits Hardship in Ekiti
By Joseph Sunday
History was made on Friday as Mr Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, the first man to be elected Governor of Ekiti State back-to-back, publicly acknowledged the hardship facing citizens of the state shortly after taking the oath of office for a second term at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti.
Speaking at his inauguration ceremony, Governor Oyebanji said his administration will build on its achievements, correct its shortcomings, and seek practical solutions to the hardship still experienced by the people.
“Where we have done well, we will build further. Where we have fallen short, we will make corrections. Where our people still face hardship, we will keep seeking practical answers,” he said. “Four years ago, we set out to keep Ekiti working. In the four years ahead, we must make sure that our work yields more for our people.”
The Governor said the task ahead is enormous but familiar, expressing confidence that with God’s guidance and the support of Ekiti people, his administration will succeed.
“I know the task ahead is enormous, but it is now a familiar terrain. With God’s guidance and the people by our side, I know that we will not walk alone. Ekiti-Kete, we will do this together. Together with you, our dream of shared prosperity will be achieved,” he stated.
Oyebanji said his second mandate brings greater responsibility, noting that public trust must be earned afresh every day. He promised to remain accessible, listen to the people, welcome honest counsel, and work across political and social divides to take the state to its promised land.
He pledged his administration’s commitment to technology, innovation and the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, adding that institutions and businesses would be encouraged to solve real problems, develop useful products and prepare young people for emerging opportunities.
The Governor further said his second term would focus on connecting education more closely to enterprise, practical skills and the needs of a changing economy, a vision he said is behind the ongoing construction of the Ekiti Knowledge Zone (EKZ).
He stressed the need to create greater opportunities for women entrepreneurs, traders, artisans, people with disabilities and young people whose abilities exceed available opportunities, noting that every part of Ekiti has something to contribute.
Shortly after taking the oath of office, Governor Oyebanji inspected the Guard of Honour and Parade mounted by officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force, riding on the ceremonial police Land Rover amid cheers from the enthusiastic crowd.
