Nigeria's governors: Halfway to where? (2)

According to Kolapo Olatunde, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ekiti State Chairperson, Oyebanji's achievements include prompt salary payments, pension defrayment, and welfare initiatives like car and housing loans for primary school workers.

- BY ABIODUN KOMOLAFE

He also implemented the N70,000 minimum wage, promoted graduate teachers and reinstated sacked workers. "BAO has showcased his commitment to workers' welfare and infrastructural development. He has our unalloyed support", the NLC Chairman concluded.

Adewale Adeoye, representing the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), praises Oyebanji's achievements, including affordable education, road construction and healthcare investment. He notes the governor's political tolerance and lack of salary arrears for workers and pensioners. These accomplishments, Adeoye argues, "make a strong case for Oyebanji's re-election, considering the state's available resources and population dynamics."

Samson Akinde, a priest, is of the strong belief that Ekiti State is evolving under Oyebanji's leadership. He further expressed his views, saying: "I commend his approach to politics, which has avoided unhealthy confrontations and power struggles. He has treated his predecessors with dignity, giving them their due respect." Akinde also shared feedback from friends who recently traveled through Ekiti en route to Abuja, praising the state's progress.

Idowu Ephraim Faleye, a native of Iloro-Ekiti and a social commentator, praises BAO's leadership. He notes:"Governor Oyebanji's humble leadership shines through people-centric projects. Thousands of youths have gained skills through initiatives like the Innovation Hub. His approach to governance, coupled with the recently empowered forest guards, may well be a model for other governors to follow, particularly in understanding the nuances of cooperation with the federal government."

In Olanipekun's words, "Oyebanji enjoys unprecedented acceptance, across the board, irrespective of political or other leanings in the state." He then added, "I wish most of our governors could learn from him, especially in human relations and governance."