Oyebanji hails Adebayo at 68, credits ex-gov with Ekiti’s political foundation
By Boye Oyeyemi –
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has described the first democratically elected governor of the state, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, as a central figure in Ekiti’s political evolution.
Oyebanji, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, congratulated the former governor on attaining the age in sound health and high spirits, noting that his life of service continues to inspire leaders across generations.
The governor said Adebayo remains one of the pillars of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic, crediting him with laying a solid foundation for Ekiti’s socio-economic growth and political stability during the formative years of the state.
According to Oyebanji, the former governor brought integrity, humility, and discipline into governance, virtues he said earned him widespread respect and enduring relevance in Ekiti and beyond.
“He is a father, teacher, mentor, and role model who has been rightly described as an Omoluabi worthy of emulation by both contemporary and future leaders,” the governor said.
Oyebanji noted that history would be kind to Adebayo for successfully steering the affairs of the state at a time of limited financial resources, yet recording notable achievements that helped shape Ekiti’s development trajectory.
He also described the former governor as the father of progressive politics in Ekiti State, adding that his leadership legacy was evident in the emergence of two successors from the same ideological background.
The governor further commended Adebayo’s contributions to national development, citing his roles as former National Vice-Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, former Chairman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria Board, and former Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment.
