Oyebanji – The Convener of the Movement For Good Democratic Advancement (MGDA), Amb. Bunmi Orimogunje, has raised concerns over claims circulating in the political space regarding the alleged involvement of the Ekiti Governor, Biodun Oyebanji in the contest for the House of Representatives seat in Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Orimogunje said an aspirant from Efon-Alaaye Local Government had publicly alleged that Governor Oyebanji asked him to take care of certain political figures if he eventually emerged as the representative of the constituency at the National Assembly.
He explained that the allegation suggested the governor had asked the aspirant to take good care of Dele Jeje and Ronke Okunsanya if he became the lawmaker representing Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II.
According to Orimogunje, the claim raises several issues that require careful reflection from the people of Efon and the wider constituency.
He questioned whether a sitting governor could make such a statement when party primaries for the House of Representatives ticket had not yet been conducted.
Orimogunje noted that in a democratic system guided by due process and internal party democracy, it would be unusual and inappropriate for a governor to predetermine the outcome of a primary election that has not taken place.
He also raised concerns over the suggestion that only a few individuals were being recognized as leaders in Efon, noting that the community has many respected elders, political stakeholders, youth leaders and opinion moulders who have contributed to its development.
The MGDA convener stated that any narrative limiting the leadership structure of Efon to only two individuals undermines the contributions and dignity of other stakeholders within the community.
He further pointed out that Efon Local Government is not the only area that constitutes Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II, explaining that the constituency comprises several communities and local governments with diverse interests.
According to him, representation at the National Assembly should reflect inclusiveness, fairness and respect for all parts of the constituency.
Orimogunje advised that claims linking the governor to the alleged endorsement should be approached with caution to avoid misrepresentation of respected leaders.
He added that political ambition should not lead to distortion of facts or the use of the governor’s name for personal political advantage.
The MGDA convener stated that Governor Oyebanji is expected to maintain a leadership style based on inclusiveness, fairness and respect for democratic processes across the state.
He urged residents of Efon and the entire Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II to remain vigilant and discerning in evaluating political claims that could create division within the constituency.
