Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has declared that contrary to the belief that second-term governors often underperform, he intends to deliver more impactful projects and programs across all sectors during his second term. This assurance came as Muslim leaders across the 16 local government areas of the state pledged to mobilize and deliver no fewer than 150,000 votes for Oyebanji's re-election, citing his inclusive governance style, commitment to citizen welfare, and promotion of religious harmony.
The Muslim leaders made this known during an engagement with the governor at the residence of the Chief Imam and President-General of the League of Imams and Alfas in Southwest, Edo, and Delta States, Sheik (Dr.) Jamiu Kewulere Bello. The meeting was attended by Sheikh Bello, President of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji (Dr.) Ahmed Bakare, members of the Supreme Council, chief imams from the 16 local government areas, and representatives of the National Council of Muslim Youth Organisation (NACOMYO).
Speaking on behalf of the Muslim community, Sheik Bello commended Oyebanji for carrying all segments of the state along in governance, describing him as a leader who has demonstrated fairness, humility, and a genuine commitment to Ekiti State's development without discrimination based on religion or political affiliation. The President-General noted that the governor's outstanding performance reflects his sound upbringing, vast experience, and proper political tutelage. He described him as a well-prepared leader who understands the demands of governance, stressing that his impressive achievements across various sectors had earned him the confidence of the Muslim community. He assured the governor of full support from Muslims to ensure his second term.
In his remarks, the President of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Ahmed Bakare, said the Muslim community had never had it so good in the state. He noted that over 50 Muslims currently hold various positions in the current administration, describing this as unprecedented in the state's history and a clear reflection of fairness and inclusion. In separate remarks, the Chief Imam of Ansar-ur-deen in Ado Ekiti, Sheik Abdulai Mutoib, and the Coordinator of NACOMYO, Mudasiru Yusuf, said the Muslim community has already identified over 150,000 Muslims with valid voter cards and has set up a machinery to track and ensure they vote for the governor as a demonstration of appreciation for his inclusive governance style and people-oriented policies.
In his response, Governor Oyebanji expressed appreciation to the Muslim community for their prayers, loyalty, and support. He said the purpose of his visit was not to canvass for votes but to convey his appreciation and seek continued prayers for the success of his administration and the forthcoming election. He urged the Muslim faithful to continue supporting his administration's efforts in building a more prosperous and united Ekiti State for present and future generations, adding that his government remains committed to sustaining peace, religious harmony, and inclusive governance. He stated, "My coming here today is not to canvass for votes because I know you will vote for me. I am here for three reasons: first, to come and thank you; second, to seek your prayers; and third, I don't want to take you for granted. I see all you are doing, and I know you are ready for the election, but that does not mean I should now take you for granted. From what the Alfa said, there is a genuine fear that most governors, when elected for a second term, believe they are not contesting again and might not perform well. But whoever knows there is tomorrow will not do that. The second term is the most critical; it is better to serve once and leave than to mess up in the second term."
