“I Won’t Tolerated Lapses Again” — Oyebanji Issues Stern Warning at Top Aides’ Swearing-In

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has sent a clear message across the state’s political landscape: his second-term administration will operate under zero tolerance for administrative lapses or complacency.

Speaking at a brief swearing-in ceremony at the Governor’s Office Conference Hall in Ado-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji officially administered the oath of office to reappointed Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, and Chief of Staff, Mr. Oyeniyi Adebayo.

Addressing the duo, Governor Oyebanji made it clear that while their first four years served as a learning phase, their reappointment comes with far higher expectations and strict accountability.

“This reappointment is proof that the reward for good work is more work. But I will be dishonest if I do not acknowledge that there were areas in need of improvement. You have no reason to grope around. The burden that comes with this is that I will be less tolerant of lapses than I was in the first administration because you cannot claim inexperience again,” the Governor warned.

Personal Choice, Higher Responsibility

Clarifying the nature of their appointments, Governor Oyebanji pointed out that while political stakeholders across the state can nominate candidates for commissioners and special advisers, the positions of SSG and Chief of Staff remain his personal, direct choices.

He commended both officials for their steadfast loyalty and dedicated service since the inception of his administration four years ago, describing them as steady administrative hands. However, he warned them against becoming overconfident or comfortable in their positions.

Key directives from the Governor included:

• Immediate Administrative Support: Multitasking and overseeing administrative functions across vacant portfolios pending the inauguration of a full cabinet.
• Humility and Public Courtesy: Remaining humble, accessible, and respectful when dealing with members of the public.
• Service Over Privilege: Remembering that the electorate remains the ultimate employer of government officials.

“Treat our people with courtesy; be compassionate, humble, fair, and God-fearing. It is their votes that brought us here. So, by extension, they are our employer. We cannot get to office and assume to be lords over them,” Oyebanji added.

Pledge of Loyalty and Redoubled Commitment

Responding on behalf of the reappointed officials, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Oyebanji for the renewed trust reposed in them.

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She praised the Governor’s compassionate leadership style and highlighted the developmental milestones achieved during his first term as a solid foundation for second-term progress.

Prof. Adubiaro assured the Governor and the people of Ekiti State that they would redouble their efforts, maintain high administrative discipline, and work tirelessly to justify their reappointments.