Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has again, reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring a fair representation of Muslim community in his cabinet as a means of building a government that reflects the rich tapestry of the state population and promote inclusivity and diversity in governance.
Governor Oyebanji stated this on Sunday at a Ramadan Lecture organized by the National Council of Muslim Youth Organization of Nigeria (NACOMYO), Ekiti State Chapter, in honour of the late former Commissioner in the state, late Alhaji Yakubu Oladoro Sanni at the Obafemi Awolowo civic and convention center, Ado Ekiti.
Acknowledging the significant contribution of the Muslim community to the state’s development, the Governor said his administration is committed to creating an inclusive government that reflects the demographics and values of the state.
Governor Oyebanji, who lauded the late Alhaji Oladoro Sanni for his significant contribution to politics, public service, and religion, promised to continue to fulfil the electoral promises he made to the Muslim community.
He assured them that more appointments would be allocated to Muslims to uphold equity and political balance as well as build more political icons within the Muslim society in replica of the late Alhaji Sanni.
The Governor said he will continue to engage with Muslim leaders and organizations to identify individuals who can serve in different capacities in his administration as he emphasizes meritocracy as a guiding principle for appointment to his cabinet.
While appreciating the Muslim community for their support for his administration, Governor Oyebanji charged them to continue to pray for peace and harmony of the state, stressing that unity is key to ensuring political stability and fostering inclusivity for the welfare of all citizens in the State.
“I will continue to support the work of God and I thank you for the people you nominated to work with me in my cabinet, I don’t have any cause to complain about them, they are doing so so well and we’re going to have more, but I’m praying for your blessings. I won’t appoint any Muslim to position without your consent, because this government is government of the people.” the Governor asserted.
In his own remarks, the President of the League of Imams and Alfas in the Southwest, Edo, and Delta, Sheik Jamiu Kewulere Bello commended Governor Oyebanji for his giant strides in the development of the state and appointment of Muslims into his government
He noted that the current administration had changed the narratives of political marginalization of the Muslims society by giving them various key appointments as promised before the election. He added that Ekiti Muslims have never had it so well.