…Exploring the clamour for Governor Oyebanji’s second term amidst criticisms and the hopes of Ekiti people for sustained progress.
By Fémi Èsan
The BAO L’ekansi dictum has evolved into a symbolic household phrase across Ekiti State, symbolizing the growing call for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) to extend his stewardship and transformative leadership into a second term. This groundswell of support is not merely aspirational but is firmly rooted in the substantial impact of his administration’s policies and programs.
Even before the commemoration of his two-year anniversary in office, Ekiti citizens have vociferously clamoured for continuity in leadership. The chorus of support has been unequivocal, with many articulating their desire for Governor Oyebanji to remain at the helm of state affairs beyond his first term.
Despite the avalanche of appeals and endorsements, Governor Oyebanji has refrained from declaring his intention to seek re-election. Instead, he has consistently emphasized that “there is a time for everything,” underscoring his unwavering focus on governance and his commitment to delivering on his mandate of steering Ekiti State toward shared prosperity.
One remarkable trait of Governor Oyebanji is his unassuming nature. He neither perceives himself as a political messiah nor regards his developmental strides as acts of magnanimity. Even after affirming that his administration has fulfilled over 90% of its campaign promises, he remains grounded, acknowledging the impossibility of addressing every challenge or satisfying every individual.
His governance style is methodical and deliberate, characterized by a meticulous prioritization of the state’s needs. He remains unfazed by the cacophony of opposition voices that attempt to downplay his achievements. The governor’s confidence is buoyed by the overwhelming support of the majority of Ekiti people who daily witness and benefit from his transformative initiatives. For these citizens, the evidence of progress is incontrovertible, etched into the streets, communities, schools, healthcare facilities, and empowerment programs that have redefined the state’s developmental narrative.
Governor Oyebanji’s leadership is not driven by a quest for accolades but by an unyielding commitment to results. His administration’s achievements resonate louder than the criticisms of detractors, affirming his focus on service rather than applause.
That said, the road to a prosperous Ekiti isn’t far from complete. While the challenges of governance are multifaceted, Governor Oyebanji recognizes that sustainable development is a continuum, a relay that requires consistent effort, strategic planning, and collective resolve. His administration has laid a solid foundation for progress, ensuring that the trajectory of growth remains unbroken.
Governor Oyebanji exemplifies the essence of true leadership, not in grandiloquent promises but in actions that resonate with the needs and aspirations of the people. While critics persist in their dissent, the indelible legacy of his administration will remain etched in the annals of the State’s history.
Certainly, history will remember the results, and the people will always cherish a governor who spoke the truth and prioritized their welfare above all else. Governor Oyebanji is not merely leading; he is sculpting a legacy of inclusivity, progress, and impact, a legacy destined to withstand the test of time.