The dynamics of opposition politics in Ekiti State took an intriguing turn as Segun Oni, the former governor and Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate in the recent governorship election, made a surprising appearance at the Government House Chapel during Sunday worship alongside Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
Arriving at the chapel in Ado-Ekiti with his immediate family and political allies at 9:55 am, Oni was warmly welcomed by Governor Oyebanji. He clarified that his presence was to fulfill a prior commitment made to worship with Oyebanji at the Government House Chapel, having missed a special thanksgiving service on October 22 marking the governor’s first year in office.
Reflecting on his past, Oni shared that his previous visit to the chapel dated back to October 15, 2010, coinciding with the day he was removed from office by the Court of Appeal.
During his address to the congregation, Oni urged stakeholders involved in the Ekiti project to unite and collaborate with Governor Oyebanji.
“It is good to contest an election. It is also good to challenge the outcome in court. And after that, you move on. We should run politics; politics should not run us. This is the time we should all join hands together with Governor Oyebanji to develop the state,” he admonished.
He commended the governor for various infrastructure projects as well as his ongoing efforts at ensuring all abandoned projects are completed, including the Ado-Ifaki road.
“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,” he said.
Responding, Gov Oyebanji said: “I thank Your Excellency for this remarkable visit, which I consider a demonstration of your love for me and for our dear state. For you to come around and worship God with us shows you love and support our development efforts.
“One thing remarkable about you is that you love Ekiti people and Ekiti people love you. You are selfless and you live in the hearts of the people.
“That I won the election does not mean I am better than you. It is by God’s grace. And you have been a pillar of support for us, immediately after the court case ended.”
Other top government officials who attended the service include Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, Speaker of the Assembly Adeoye Aribasoye, and Head of Service Sunday Komolafe.
