Frolic with Opponents, Face the Axe, Oyebanji Warns Cabinet Members
Frolic with Opponents, Face the Axe, Oyebanji Tells Cabinet Members
Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has sent a clear and firm warning to his cabinet members and political appointees. He told them that any act of disloyalty, especially through secret dealings or unnecessary closeness with political opponents, will not be tolerated. According to him, such behavior is a direct threat to the unity and progress of his administration and will be met with immediate dismissal.
Oyebanji, who spoke during a political meeting in Ado-Ekiti, reminded his team that they were chosen to serve the people under a shared vision, not to pursue personal interests at the expense of the government’s stability. He emphasized that loyalty and commitment are the foundation of any successful administration, and anyone caught working against the collective goal should be prepared to face the axe.
The governor’s comments come at a time when political maneuverings are beginning to gain momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections. He said his government has made significant progress in areas such as infrastructure, youth empowerment, and healthcare, but warned that internal sabotage or mixed loyalty could derail the gains already made. He described his cabinet as a team of trusted individuals who must remain focused on service delivery rather than political games.
Many analysts believe the governor’s statement was a response to growing reports of some appointees holding private meetings with opposition leaders. In Nigerian politics, such moves are often seen as early signs of betrayal or shifting allegiance, especially when elections are on the horizon. Oyebanji’s stance reflects his determination to protect his administration from instability and distraction.
He also called on his appointees to always put the interest of Ekiti people first. According to him, the people of the state deserve leaders who are fully committed to their welfare, not politicians who play double games for personal advantage. He stressed that his government would only keep those who are willing to work in honesty, transparency, and total loyalty to the cause of the administration.
Supporters of the governor have applauded his boldness, noting that firm leadership is needed to prevent division and ensure continuity in governance. They argue that political loyalty is not just about standing by a leader, but also about showing consistency in public service and decision-making.
However, critics say that while loyalty is important, the governor should also focus on creating an environment where constructive criticism and healthy political engagement are not mistaken for disloyalty. They believe that shutting down every form of engagement with opponents could discourage inclusiveness and democratic dialogue.
Despite these views, Oyebanji made it clear that his cabinet is not a place for divided interests. He urged his appointees to always remember the oath they took and the responsibilities they owe to the people of Ekiti. According to him, governance is a serious business that requires focus, discipline, and loyalty, and anyone who cannot live by these values has no business being in his team.
The governor concluded by urging his political family to remain united, as unity is the only way the administration can continue to deliver meaningful projects to the people. He called on them to resist distractions and avoid giving room to political enemies who may want to sow discord.
The message was simple but powerful: any cabinet member who chooses to frolic with opponents will face the axe. Oyebanji’s warning has now set a new tone in Ekiti politics, signaling that loyalty will remain a key determinant for survival in his administration.