President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has warned the political class in Ekiti State against distracting Governor Biodun Oyebanji with early declarations of interest in the 2030 governorship election.
President Tinubu said such early declaration is capable of causing internal contradictions and derailing governance.
He gave the warning at the second term inauguration thanksgiving service of Governor Oyebanji, held at the Cathedral Church of Emmanuel, Okesa, Ado-Ekiti.
President Tinubu, who was represented by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, said loyalty to Governor Oyebanji is loyalty to Ekiti State.
He stressed that anyone declaring interest in the governorship seat in the next three years is an enemy of progress, and urged politicians to consider the larger interest of the state.
The President commended Governor Oyebanji for ending his first term gloriously and urged him to remain focused, humble and accessible.
He said Governor Oyebanji was the first in the state to hand over to himself, describing it as grace, and urged him to work hard to ensure continuity.
In his response, Governor Oyebanji thanked Ekiti people for their support and assured that his second term will focus on industrialisation and shared prosperity.
Governor Oyebanji said his administration had put infrastructure in place in the first term to attract investors, noting that government alone cannot drive industrialisation without the cooperation of the people, especially traditional rulers on land matters.
The Governor promised to serve the state with humility, patience and in a manner that glorifies God.
In a homily, the Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Anglican Communion, Right Reverend Andrew Olusola Ajayi, urged Governor Oyebanji to see his position as a trust held for the people and to render selfless service.
He advised the Governor to maintain his integrity, remain principled and make the happiness of the people his utmost concern.
The thanksgiving service was attended by former Governors Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose, Segun Oni, and Kayode Fayemi who was represented by his wife, Erelu Bisi Fayemi.
Also present were members of the National Assembly, traditional rulers, faith leaders and other dignitaries.
Governor Oyebanji and his Deputy, Chief Monisade Afuye, were inaugurated on Friday at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, Ado-Ekiti, for a second term in office.
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