Tinubu warned Ekiti politicians against premature ambitions to become governor in 2030

President Bola Tinubu has urged politicians in Ekiti State to refrain from declaring their intention to replace Governor Biodun Oyebanji in 2030, warning that a premature succession campaign could distract the governor and undermine effective governance.

The president issued the warning as Oyebanji began his second term, and vowed to shift greater attention towards industrialization, job creation and economic prosperity following his administration’s initial investments in infrastructure.

Oyebanji and his deputy, Monisade Afuye, were sworn in for another term on Friday at the Ekitiparapo Pavilion, New Iyin Road, Ado Ekiti, the state capital.

Speaking on Sunday at a special thanksgiving service marking the inauguration, held at the Emmanuel Anglican Cathedral, Okesa, Ado Ekiti, Tinubu urged political stakeholders to prioritize the collective interests of the country over individual ambitions.

The President, represented by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, congratulated Oyebanji on completing his first term in office and encouraged him to maintain an inclusive approach to leadership.

He called on politicians to support the government rather than starting a campaign for the governor’s seat years before the current term ends.

Tinubu said, “To the political class, let us show love to this government. Let us show love to Ekiti. Loyalty to Governor Oyebanji is loyalty to Ekiti. When we are loyal then we will not divert his attention or start claiming to occupy his seat so quickly.

“Let me say this: anyone who says he wants to be governor in the next three years is an enemy of progress. Remember that the moment you express interest in the governorship, there will be distractions. Let us not see politics as the only industry in Ekiti. Let us think of other things and look at the bigger picture and the interests of Ekiti.

“I urge you, continue to be yourself. Let no one, whether traditional rulers, former governors, the political class, civil servants, women or youth groups, change who you are. You are not the first governor to run for a second term, but for the glory of God, you are the first to surrender. Others are fighting hard to come back. This is a gift.

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“Whoever breaks the curse of a second term after you will take you as a reference point. There is strength in continuity, so you must work hard to ensure continuity under these circumstances. God will help you to do better.”

In his remarks, Oyebanji thanked the people of Ekiti for their support during the elections, and promised to justify their trust through humble and responsive leadership.

The governor said his first term will focus on infrastructure development to create a supportive environment for investors, while his second term will concentrate on developing an industrial economy capable of creating jobs and raising living standards.

He appealed to traditional rulers and communities to cooperate with the government, especially in land acquisition, which he said was an important factor in attracting industry to the country.

“Let me assure you that my second term will be better than the first, with an emphasis on industrialization and prosperity for our people. In the first term, we have built infrastructure to attract investors to the country. With industrialization, jobs will be available, and everyone will prosper.

“But the government alone can’t do it, so we partner with our traditional rulers on land issues. Investors won’t come if the community isn’t ready to give up the land, and if there’s no cooperation from the community, there will be problems. There are sacrifices we have to make to bring industry here.

“I know I am faced with the burden of 87.7% of the total votes you gave me in the last election. I know that the only way I can do this is to serve Ekiti in a way that glorifies God. I promise before God and man today that I will serve you with humility, listen to you, and connect with you.

“It is my wish that after I come out, I can walk upright like my predecessors did,” he said.

Delivering the homily, Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Anglican Communion, Rt. Pastor Andrew Ajayi reminded the governor that public office is a responsibility entrusted to the people.

Ajayi commended Oyebanji for completing his first term in office and urged him to remain conscious of the expectations attached to his new mandate.

The cleric also called on citizens to support effective government by fulfilling their civil obligations, including paying taxes and levies and complying with applicable laws.

Among the dignitaries who attended the thanksgiving service were the First Lady of Ekiti State, Prof. Olayemi Oyebanji; former governors Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose and Segun Oni; and Erelu Bisi Fayemi who represents her husband, former Governor Kayode Fayemi.