FARMERS in Ekiti State, under the aegis of All Farmers’ Association of Nigeria (AFAN) have donated a sum of five million naira to the re-election campaign of the state Governor, Biodun Oyebanji.
They argued the need for continuity of his positive disposition to agriculture development as well as developments in other critical sectors of the economy for their decision.
The farmers made the donation during an engagement with the governor in Ado-Ekiti on Monday also assured the Governor that no fewer than fifty thousand farmers will vote to re-elect him in the June 20 election as a way of demonstrating their appreciation and backing for his administration.
Speaking on behalf of the farmers, the National Vice President (Youth) and the State Chairman of AFAN, Chief Tunde Adeyemi and Mr Sunday Adekogbon respectively, cited the Governor Oyebanji’s tractorization programme, subsidized farm inputs, rural roads rehabilitation and construction as well as empowerment programme as some of the reasons for supporting his re-election.
The farmers said the Oyebanji administration from inception has been treating farmers like kings, having prioritized agribusiness development which has repositioned agriculture from subsistence level to an investment-driven venture.
‘As stakeholders in the agricultural sector, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting your administration’s vision. Together, we can strengthen food security, empower young people through agriculture, create employment opportunities, attract investment, and position Ekiti State as one of Nigeria’s leading agricultural states,’ they said.
While describing the governor as one of the most progressive subnational agricultural models in Nigeria through his deliberate policies, strategic investments, and consistent engagement with farmers, the farmers said Oyebanji has been able to turn the state into a reference point for agricultural development, food security advancement, and rural transformation.
The farmers also expressed their appreciation for Governor Oyebanji’s aggressive rural road infrastructure with particular emphasis to the construction and rehabilitation of the Aba-Ibadan-Igbara-Odo Road and the Agamo-Ipere-Iludun Road which have provided direct access to farms and significantly eased movement of farm inputs, equipment, and harvested produce to and from the farms.
Responding, governor Oyebanji expressed deep appreciation for the farmers’ financial support for his re-election bid and assured them that his administration will not relent in its efforts to reposition the sector as a pathway to job and wealth creation.
According to him, ‘What is happening today is a bit shocking to me and I get emotional when things like this happen because ideally, it should be people like us that should be supporting you, but when farmers congregate together and donate money to a cause, it speaks volume and I really want to thanks and say God bless you.
‘Things like this impose a lot of responsibility on me to ensure that I continue to do those things that are pleasing to God and to you.’
However, Muslim leaders across the 16 local government areas of the Ekiti State have pledged to mobilise and deliver no fewer than 150,000 votes for the re-election of Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term.
They cited his inclusive style of governance, commitment to the welfare of citizens and for championing religious harmony in the state for their decision.
The Muslim leaders disclosed this during an engagement with the governor at the residence of the Chief Imam and President-General of the League of Imams and Alfas in South West, Edo and Delta States, Sheik Jamiu Kewulere Bello.
The meeting was attended by Sheikh Bello, President Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Ahmed Bakare; members of the Supreme Council, Chief Imams from the 16 LGAs of the state, as well as representatives of the National Council of Muslim Youth Organisation (NACOMYO).
Speaking on behalf of the Muslim community, Sheik Bello commended governor 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 the development of Ekiti State without discrimination on religion or political affiliation.
The President-General noted that Oyebanji’s outstanding performance in office is a reflection of 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.
In his remarks, the President 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 the gesture as unprecedented in the history of the state and a clear reflection of fairness and inclusion.
Responding, governor Oyebanji expressed appreciation to the Muslim community for their prayers, loyalty and support for his administration.
He said the purpose of his visit was not to canvass for votes, but to convey his appreciation to them and seek continued prayers for the success of his administration and the forthcoming election.
Oyebanji said contrary to the belief that second term governors often underperform, he said he intends to deliver more impactful projects and programme across sectors in his second term.
According to him, ‘My coming here is not to canvass for vote because I know you will vote for me, I am here for three reasons: First is to come and thank you, second is to come and seek for your prayers, and the third is that 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 doesn’t not mean I should now take you for granted.’