By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti

The re-election bid of the Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, gained further traction on Tuesday as members of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP) endorsed him for a second term in office, commending his impactful programmes aimed at alleviating poverty and neglect among citizens.

The retirees based their endorsement on Oyebanji’s impressive performance, his commitment to promises, inclusive governance, and consistent payment of their statutory entitlements, including pensions and gratuities.

The governor was represented at the event, held at the NUP Secretariat, Oke Ori, in Ado Ekiti, by his Deputy, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye. The event was attended by top NUP officials, including members of the State Executive Council.

Justifying the endorsement, the NUP Chairman, Ekiti State Chapter, Comrade Tope Popoola, said the governor made history in Nigeria by appointing the first Special Adviser on Pension Matters—making Ekiti the pioneer in this regard.

With a thunderous “yes” response from members when he posed the endorsement vote, Popoola praised the governor for prioritising the welfare of retirees, which has helped reverse the previously high morbidity and mortality rates among them.

“This endorsement is total. All members have unanimously agreed to endorse the best governor in Nigeria, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, for initiating the regular payment of monthly pensions, gradual clearance of inherited gratuity arrears, settlement of pension backlogs, and the N10,000 palliative fund for our members.

“The governor’s personal donation of N15 million towards our guest house project, and the appointment of a Special Adviser on Pension Matters—the first in Nigeria—have directly impacted our lives. We are happy that you made promises and fulfilled them.

“While thanking you for all you’ve done to improve the welfare of pensioners, we have come with one voice to adopt you and reciprocate your good deeds with unwavering support in the next elections.”

Supporting the Chairman’s remarks, the NUP National Vice President, Comrade Ayo Kumapayi, also commended Oyebanji for restoring the respect and dignity of pensioners in the state.

“I remember a time when our members were so poor that we became objects of ridicule in the market. But today, Oyebanji has reversed that trend and restored our dignity. We now go to the market and buy whatever we need. God bless our governor,” he said.

Describing the endorsement as a motivation to accelerate development efforts, Oyebanji thanked the pensioners for their unwavering support, saying it affirms that his government has not disappointed the people.

Oyebanji added that since retirees had devoted their productive years to serving Ekiti State, it is only fair and humane that the government prioritises their needs to support their livelihoods.

“I wish to assure you that the interests of our senior citizens—and indeed the people of Ekiti State—are paramount to us, and we will not relent in the good works we have begun. We remain committed to addressing the challenges faced by our senior citizens.

“We understand the importance of timely payment of pensions, gratuities, and access to quality healthcare to improve your quality of life. These actions reflect our vision for a society that values and uplifts its elders.

“Your wellbeing is not just an obligation; it is a priority that aligns with our vision of inclusive governance and commitment to shared prosperity. We shall continue to pursue this within the limits of available resources.”