In a surprising turn of events in Ekiti State’s opposition politics, the former governor and Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, Segun Oni, joined Governor Biodun Oyebanji for Sunday worship at the Government House Chapel.
Accompanied by members of his immediate family and political associates, Oni arrived at the chapel within the Government House complex in Ado-Ekiti at 9:55 am. He was warmly received by the incumbent Governor Oyebanji.
Oni revealed that he had attended the service to fulfill a promise made to Governor Oyebanji to worship with him at the Government House Chapel, following his absence at the special thanksgiving service held on October 22 to mark the latter’s first anniversary in office.
Reflecting on his last visit to the chapel on October 15, 2010, the day he was removed from office by the Court of Appeal, the former governor extended a call to stakeholders in the Ekiti project to unite with Governor Oyebanji.
Addressing the congregation, Oni emphasized the importance of participating in elections, challenging outcomes in court, and subsequently moving forward. He urged everyone to come together with Governor Oyebanji to advance the state, stating, “We should run politics; politics should not run us.”
Furthermore, Oni commended the governor for his various infrastructure projects and ongoing efforts to complete all abandoned projects, including the Ado-Ifaki road. He expressed, “I will say he has been very impressive; he is a gift to us as a people, and I believe that he has the perfect composure to move us forward.”
Responding to Oni’s visit, Governor Oyebanji expressed gratitude for the remarkable gesture, considering it a demonstration of Oni’s love for him and the state. He emphasized Oni’s selflessness and the genuine affection Ekiti people have for him, acknowledging Oni’s unwavering support after the court case ended.
High-ranking government officials present at the service included Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, Speaker of the Assembly Adeoye Aribasoye, and Head of Service Sunday Komolafe.
