Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has promised to erect lasting legacies across the sectors worthy of pride.
He said his goal is to live in the hearts of the people through the implementation of people-oriented policies and programmes.
“I want to be remembered as a governor who always tells the truth. I don’t lie! My goal is to live in the hearts of Ekiti people, and I believe the key to achieving this is by staying connected with them and implementing policies that positively impact their lives.
“Ultimately, I aspire to be remembered as a governor who brought prosperity to our people, one who demonstrated responsible and responsive leadership,” he said in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.
The governor emphasised the importance of defending the legacies of the pathfinders, who promoted the welfare of the region in the past.
Oyebanji praised their vision and foresight, stressing that progressive governments should build on the firm foundation laid by the early political leaders.
He said: “Chief Obafemi Awolowo is remembered more for his revolutionary policies, such as Free Education, than for symbols like Cocoa House. To me, substance always trumps symbols. While constructing bridges and buildings is important, they must resonate with the people to have a lasting impact.
“This is why I’m committed to sustaining the agricultural revolution in Ekiti, empowering our youths to earn a responsible living.”
He added: “Interestingly, we’re renovating most of Awolowo’s Farm Settlements in the state, which were built decades ago. It is remarkable to think that Awolowo had such vision back then, and it’s our duty to build upon his legacy. By renovating these settlements, we’re ensuring they continue to benefit the people of Ekiti.
“Building on our existing efforts, we plan to establish six more Farm Settlements across Ekiti in 2025. This expansion will not only provide decent accommodations for our over 1,000 employed youths in the sector but also enable them to live on-site, work efficiently, and earn a decent income. Empowering our youths and promoting agricultural development are legacies I’m committed to leaving behind.
“My goal is to leave a lasting legacy that transforms the lives of Ekiti people. I envision a future where pregnant women can safely deliver their babies at well-equipped Primary Health facilities, staffed with skilled nurses and stocked with essential medications.
“I also aspire to create a world-class education system where our students can compete with their peers from anywhere in the world. This is the kind of legacy I’m committed to leaving behind.”
Oyebanji described his mandate in Ekiti as a divine assignment, saying that God gave him the opportunity to exercise power.
He said he remained grateful to God who ordered his steps and gave him the opportunity to serve Ekiti.
Oyebanji said: “As a deeply spiritual individual, I firmly believe my role as Governor of Ekiti State is a divine assignment. Those close to me can attest that my faith plays a central role in every aspect of my life.
“My life is grounded in the philosophy that everything I have is a gift from God, and what He gives, no one can take away. This guiding principle shapes my decisions and actions as a leader.
“In 2022, becoming the governor of Ekiti State was the furthest thing on my mind. As SSG (Secretary to the State Government), I was focused on my duties, looking forward to returning to my farm and spending time with my family. I genuinely believed my time in state-level politics had come to an end. “But fate had other plans. I’m often referred to as the ‘reluctant governor’ because my ascension to this role was unexpected, even to myself. I’m grateful for this opportunity, which I believe it’s a testament to the power of divine intervention.”
There is a festival of endorsement in the state, with stakehokders, including politicians, artisans, peasants, workers, women and youth groups calling for a second term for the governor.
Remarkably, four former governors- Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose, Segun Oni and Dr. Kayode Fayemi, tipping him for another term in 2026.
However, while acknowledging these gestures, Oyebanji said God is the ultimate decider, adding that his life and future are in His hands.
He said:“I recently addressed concerns about the 2026 elections, which many people have been inquiring about via text messages. However, I maintain that God will guide us in the right direction when the time is right.
“Honestly, I don’t believe I can determine my future. The only moment I control is the present, and I’ve chosen to trust in God’s plan and timing rather than worrying about things beyond my control, like the 2026 elections. This approach may be untypical for a politician, but it brings me peace. By focusing on the present and trusting in God’s guidance, I’m able to stay grounded and forward-thinking.”
In demystifying power, Oyebanji, a political scientist and former university teacher, has not allowed power to draw a wool across his eyes.
The governor adorns the garment of humility, which makes him accessible and grassroots oriented. It is easier for him to feel the public pulse, get feedback on government policies and programmes, and remain connected with the people.
Tendering and evidence of simplicity, he said: “I always remind myself and my wife that the life of a governor isn’t entirely real. To stay grounded, I’ve made conscious choices. I use a simple Kia as my official car, reserving armoured vehicles for security purposes only. I’ve also maintained existing vehicles rather than purchasing new ones, and kept my convoy small.
“Notably, I’ve opted out of using Police Despatch Riders to avoid adding to the artificiality of this life. Thankfully, my wife supports my approach, and I’ve found peace in staying true to myself.”
The challenges of governance are enormous. Oyebanji, for example, alluded to resource constraints. Despite these difficulties, his government has prioritised every sector and been prudent in spending public funds.
Much attention has been focussed on security. An important incident that resonates is the killing of two traditional rulers and abduction of school children by bandits and kidnappers. The governor is grateful to President Bola Tinubu’s timely intervention enabled the state to apprehend the perpetrators.
It was nevertheless, a moment of harrowing experience. He said: “I recall many sleepless nights during the kidnapping ordeal, waking up to ensure every effort was made to rescue the children. Thankfully, they were recovered, and we provided them with rehabilitation support. I’m grateful to God for the successful outcome.”
For 25 years, Oyebanji had garned invaluable skill and experience in governance and party management as a technocrat, politician and administrator.
He said: “I believe God has been instrumental in helping me cope with the challenges of governance. My 12-year preparation for this role has also been invaluable, as I dedicated myself to understanding governance at this level. I’m grateful for the guidance and advice of former governors, who have been generous with their counsel, providing valuable support when faced with tough decisions.
“As governor, I’ve also learned a valuable lesson: the power of listening more and talking less. A leader’s words carry significant weight, and people take them seriously. Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of what we say and when we say it. By listening more and speaking less, I’ve come to realize that sometimes silence is the most effective response. This approach not only helps me make more informed decisions but also fosters deeper connections with others.”
To analysts, Oyebanji is an embodiment of principle, reliability and transformational philosophy and agenda, with empathetic insight, candour and native intelligence
Under his leadership, Ekiti is peaceful. There is no hullabaloo. In fact, there is no inter-party tension as prominent Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leaders – Fayose and Bisi Kolawole – are openly rooting for his second term ambition.
However, is is more to accomplish for the state before the first term expires. His agricultural initiatives are laudable. So are his infrastructure battles across the pre-existing 16 councils. Ekiti is poor. A focus on integrated rural development programmes can achieve poverty reduction. Lagos does not need to go to Kebbi for rice production. Ekiti is available with vast arable land. Its people are industrious and honest.
The state has to return to its casj crop farming to boost an export-oriented economy. A reorientation in this area is required and local leaders should assist in making the youths more productive beyond okada business. Also, a local economy springing up from the cottage revolution is not a bad idea.
It is worthy of salutation that many rural roads are receiving attention. It will aid agriculture and commerce, and facilitate ease of movement.
It is gratifying that in Ekiti there is no predecessor-successor crisis that could divert the attention of the governor, unlike Rivers State. There is no need to look for trouble where there is none.
