Dare Babalola
The Grand Imam of Ekiti State, Alhaji Jamiu Kewulere Bello, has praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration for its inclusive approach to governance and politics.
Speaking at a special Ju’mat thanksgiving service to commemorate the governor’s third anniversary in office, Alhaji Bello attributed the administration’s success to its commitment to fairness and meritocracy.
The prayer session was held on Friday at the Central Mosque, Oja Oba, Ado Ekiti.
“I want to appreciate Governor Biodun Oyebanji and his Deputy for their humility. Many governors had ruled Ekiti, but we have a lot of lessons to learn from this Governor. He got experience by receiving tutelage from some former governors. He is not a leader you can deceive. He doesn’t listen to sycophants or talk down on people anyhow,” Alhaji Bello said.
The Imam commended the governor’s efforts in improving road infrastructure, paying salaries and pensions, and providing social services to the people.
He continued, “We have seen what he did in road infrastructures, in payments of salaries, pensions, gratuities and social services, particularly his help for the sick and needy in the society. He is indeed a leader you can trust and count on anytime.”
Alhaji Bello further advised the governor to continue on the path of humility and inclusiveness.
“No wonder, all the four former governors are supporting him and pronouncing it openly. If you are in position of authorities and you are humble and accommodating like Governor Oyebanji, it will be easy for you to govern well. People will support you. Arrogance can’t take you anywhere as a leader. He deserves our support.
Let us continue to pray for him. Nobody is infallible, he can’t do it all. But for him to succeed, he must continue in this good direction. He shouldn’t derail from his focus,” the cleric added.
The Imam charged the governor and his team to continue to be steadfast and be fair to all indigenes, regardless of political and religious leanings.
In response, Governor Oyebanji thanked the Muslim community for their support and prayers.
Oyebanji said, “I will beg all of us in politics not to be vindictive. We can’t victimize anyone because of his political interest. We all have interest to become good in life and all APC members must stand united. I don’t begrudge people based on political interest. Let us spread a hand of love and fellowship to those who don’t support us, they can support us tomorrow.”
The governor also appreciated the Chief Imam and Muslims in Ekiti for their support and prayers, saying, “I appreciate the Chief Imam and Muslims in Ekiti for their support and prayers. I will continue to stand with you.”
The event was attended by top government officials, including the Deputy Governor, Speaker of the House of Assembly, and Secretary to the State Government.
