Team Oyebanji-Afuye: A partnership that works for Ekiti people

By Segun Dipe

In the intricate web of Ekiti State politics, few partnerships have generated as much buzz as the Oyebanji-Afuye combo. Governor Biodun Oyebanji and his deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, have been making waves, and the people of Ekiti are taking notice of the talismanic nature of the partnership and mutuality of relationship.

In Nigeria, the relationship between a state governor and his deputy is usually complex. The deputy governor is the second-highest-ranking official in the state, and their role is largely defined by whosoever is their governor.

According to Section 193 (1) of the Nigerian Constitution, the governor assigns responsibilities to the deputy governor, which can include overseeing specific government departments or attending public functions.

Governor Oyebanji has not held back in ensuring that this constitutional provision governs his relationship with his deputy. He, as a matter of fact, gives even more. He gives his all in terms of trust, while Afuye, the deputy also gives her all in terms of loyalty.

Oftentimes, the Governor would praise his deputy for her loyalty and support, describing their working relationship as “superb.” The deputy on the other hand hardly takes a credit for anything she does, she would smilely credit it to her oga, as she addresses her boss, the governor. Till date, going into the concluding part of their first term in office, no iota of friction has occurred between them.

The duo’s synergy is palpable, with each bringing their unique strengths to the table. Oyebanji, the charismatic leader, has been steering the ship with vision and purpose. Afuye, the affable deputy, has been the perfect foil, providing balance and stability.

Together, they have embarked on a journey to transform Ekiti State, and the results are telling. Their administration has been marked by bold initiatives, transparency, and a commitment to the welfare of Ekiti people.

From Oyebanji’s bigger picture approach to Afuye’s grassroots engagements, the duo has shown that they are in tune with the needs of the people. Their focus on infrastructure development, healthcare, education, youth and women development and agriculture has brought hope to many, and their popularity is a testament to their effectiveness.

Talking about Afuye, the deputy, her understanding of royalty has been of immense advantage to the administration. She is a proud princess from the royal family of Ikere Ekiti, holding the traditional title of Okinlua (Head of all Princesses). She knows how to navigate the troubled waters of various kingdoms in the state without courting troubles for her boss.

But like all successful partnerships, the Oyebanji-Afuye combo has its critics. Some have questioned their style, their policies, and their commitment to the people. Yet such cynics have been proved wrong time and time again with the combo sending a message of competence, reliability and loyalty to the people of Ekiti. The people of Ekiti also see through the noise of the naysayers, knowing that the duo is a focused one, not distracted a bit.

From the north to the central and to the south Senatorial Districts, the people of Ekiti have all endorsed Oyebanji and Afuye for a second term, citing their impressive performance in office, particularly in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and agriculture

They see a governor who is approachable, who listens, and who delivers. They see a deputy who is humble, dedicated, loyal and passionate about the welfare of the people. Together, Oyebanji and Afuye are a formidable team, and their impact is being felt across the state.

As Ekiti State looks to the future, the Oyebanji-Afuye combo is a partnership that deserves to be defended. They are the change that Ekiti needs, and their leadership is a breath of fresh air in a region that has seen its fair share of challenges. Both the governor and his deputy are the proverbial children of the garden who know how to pick the yam without unsettling the barn.

In defence of Oyebanji and Afuye, we say that their track record speaks for itself. They are a duo who have put the people first, and they deserve our support. As they continue to work tirelessly for the betterment of Ekiti State, we stand with them, and we urge others to do the same.

The Oyebanji-Afuye combo is a winning formula, and it’s a partnership that will take Ekiti State to its lofty heights. Let’s defend it, and let’s support them as they work to build a brighter future for all Ekiti people.

-Dipe writes from Ado Ekiti.