…Says He Can’t Afford to Let Ekiti People Down

By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has commended Ekiti elders for their efforts in reawakening culture and tradition through the publication of a new book that highlights the Yoruba ethos of Omoluabi.

Governor Oyebanji gave the commendation on Thursday during the presentation of the book, Yoruba Renaissance: Challenges and Prospects, by the Ekiti Council of Elders.

The book, written by Sir Lawrence Egunjobi, was a major highlight of the meeting, which took place at the Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office, Ado-Ekiti.

Acknowledging the council members for their critical role in offering guidance and support to his administration, Oyebanji described the elders as a pillar of strength and a source of wisdom for the state.

The governor commended them for producing a book that would reshape Yoruba culture and tradition in light of the nation’s current realities. He also appreciated their frequent position papers on government policies and their provision of alternative viewpoints.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to serving Ekiti people with utmost dedication, integrity, and selflessness, noting that he could not afford to let down those who entrusted him with their mandate.

The governor affirmed that he ascended to power through the goodwill of the people and owed them a duty to perform credibly and uphold their trust.

He added that his achievements within a short period were the result of seeking divine wisdom daily to lead the state. He stressed that his administration remains intentional about making decisions that deliver the shared prosperity promised to the people, regardless of religious or political affiliations.

While assuring the senior citizens of his government’s commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with them, he urged them to enrol in the state’s free elders’ health insurance scheme to improve their well-being.

“I have listened to and read the address of the President, and I don’t think I have a choice other than to serve Ekiti people. I cannot be raised by a team of people like you and fail to do well. I am always conscious that if I act otherwise, it will bring disgrace to many, especially you, my parents, my children, my wife, and those dear to me. That is why I always pray to God for wisdom to do the right thing,” he said.

“And I must thank the Council of Elders for your frequent position papers on government policies. You have written to me on security and education, and I can say you are one of the few in the state who provide alternative perspectives on governance. That speaks to the role of elders in society,” the governor added.

Earlier, the President of the Ekiti Council of Elders, Prof. Joseph Oluwasanmi, commended Oyebanji for the dexterity he had displayed in governance since assuming office over two years ago. He described the governor as a leader who had combined divine wisdom with sound administration to take the state to its current enviable position.

According to Oluwasanmi, the book encapsulates Yoruba socio-cultural and political values, rooted in the Omoluabi philosophy. Given its national relevance, he revealed that the Yoruba Council was collaborating with the Ekiti Council to present and launch the book to prominent Yoruba traditional and political leaders.

Dignitaries at the event included Deputy Governor Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, and Chief of Staff Mr Niyi Adebayo, among others.