In Ekiti State, recent efforts by Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji to bridge political divides and foster collaboration among leaders from different parties have sparked criticism from disgruntled members of the PDP. These dissenting voices have raised questions and voiced concerns regarding the motives and implications of the newfound political alliances.
Among the critiques are reservations about the frequency and nature of Governor Oyebanji’s interactions with prominent figures from the opposition, particularly former Governors Ayo Fayose, Segun Oni, and Senator Biodun Olujimi. Some skeptics within the PDP have expressed suspicions of a potential agenda to establish one-party dominance.
Governor Oyebanji’s approach represents a departure from divisive and bitter politics, signaling a shift towards a more inclusive and constructive political environment.
“Ekiti is a homogeneous state where we are family, irrespective of political or religious affiliation. Governor Biodun Oyebanji is ushering in an era free from bitter politics, where the incumbent governor would lord himself over all and opposing figures would throw stones at the government.
“We can only thrive as a state in an atmosphere of love, unity, and understanding, which is what we are experiencing under Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s leadership. Ekiti politics is gradually evolving from the ‘do or die’ syndrome to a state where all political figures see themselves as one big family, regardless of their party affiliations.
“One thing is certain and well-established: Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is a good manager of human resources. He honors, respects, and values everyone and associates with all.”
Additionally, the Centre condemned any form of disrespectful behavior towards elder statesmen and leaders such as Governor Fayose and Senator Olujimi, stressing the cultural value of respect in Ekiti society. They called for a more respectful and nuanced discourse, urging all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to inflammatory rhetoric or personal attacks.
“It is the height of political rascality for these disgruntled elements in the PDP to be attacking former Senator Biodun Olujimi and former Governor Ayo Fayose because of their closeness to Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and his government. It shows a lack of home training, as no well-brought-up Ekiti man would disrespect his elders in the manner these individuals have been coming against the personalities of these political figures.”
” Governor Biodun Oyebanji will not, because of their pettiness, throw away his Omoluabi ethos in the dustbin. And he won’t stop fostering unity and developing Ekiti state.
“Instead of devoting their time to crying over the monumental peace and unity accord and the developmental stride of the governor, they should inject their energy into reviving their dead and dismantled political party.”
As political tensions continue to simmer and public discourse evolves, the role of media outlets becomes increasingly crucial in shaping public understanding, dispelling misinformation, and promoting a culture of respectful and informed political engagement within Ekiti State.