President Bola Tinubu has warned Ekiti politicians against declaring their governorship ambitions for 2030 too early, saying such moves could distract Governor Biodun Oyebanji from delivering on his second-term promises.
Tinubu gave the warning on Sunday at a thanksgiving service marking Oyebanji’s inauguration for a second term at the Anglican Cathedral of Emmanuel, Okesa, Ado Ekiti. He was represented by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele.
The President urged political actors to prioritise the state’s development over personal ambitions, warning that an early succession contest could create divisions and undermine governance.
He described anyone seeking to launch a governorship bid within the next three years as an enemy of progress, urging politicians to support Oyebanji rather than focus on who would succeed him.
Tinubu also advised the governor to remain humble, accessible and inclusive in his second term, saying his re-election offered an opportunity to consolidate the gains of his first administration.
Oyebanji, in his remarks, promised to make his second term better than the first, with industrialisation, job creation and shared prosperity as major priorities.
He said his administration had invested in infrastructure to attract investors and was working with traditional rulers to address land acquisition challenges that could hinder the establishment of industries.
The governor stressed that government could not drive industrial growth alone, calling on communities to cooperate with efforts to attract businesses and create employment.
Oyebanji also thanked residents for their support during the election, saying he would serve with greater humility, listen to the people and remain accessible.
He said his administration would work to tackle poverty, unemployment and deprivation while improving economic opportunities across the state.
In his sermon, the Bishop of the Ekiti Diocese of the Anglican Communion, Andrew Olusola Ajayi, urged Oyebanji to see his position as a trust held on behalf of the people and to govern with integrity and selflessness.
The cleric also called on residents to pay their taxes and levies and obey laws guiding governance.
Oyebanji and his deputy, Monisade Afuye, were inaugurated for a second term on Friday at the Ekitiparapo Pavilion in Ado Ekiti.
Former governors Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose and Segun Oni attended the Thanksgiving service, while former governor Kayode Fayemi was represented by his wife, Bisi Fayemi. Other attendees included members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, religious leaders, labour representatives and civil servants.
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