Tinubu Warns Against Early 2030 Ekiti Race

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu cautioned Ekiti State politicians against distracting Governor Biodun Oyebanji through early declarations for the 2030 governorship contest.

Speaking on Sunday at a special second-term inauguration thanksgiving service held at the Anglican Cathedral of Emmanuel in Ado Ekiti, Tinubu emphasised that premature ambitions create internal friction that undermines governance.

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, representing the President, urged politicians to prioritise state progress: “Whoever says he wants to become the governor in the next three years is an enemy of progress. Let us bear in mind that the moment you declare interest in governorship, there will be distraction.”

Governor Oyebanji, alongside Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, commenced his second term following an official swearing-in ceremony at the Ekitiparapo Pavilion.

Addressing the congregation, Oyebanji pledged to accelerate economic transformation, tackle poverty, and drive industrialisation across the state.

“I promise before God and man today that I will serve you with humility, listen to you and connect with you,” Oyebanji stated, appealing to traditional rulers and local communities for cooperation regarding land acquisition for incoming industrial investors.

In his homily, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Ekiti, Rt Rev Andrew Olusola Ajayi, commended the governor’s initial record while reminding him that public office remains a sacred trust.

The bishop urged citizens to support state development by paying taxes and respecting the rule of law, while calling on Oyebanji to maintain his core principles and integrity throughout his second tenure.

Prominent dignitaries who attended the service included former governors Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose, and Segun Oni.