….Technical Adviser rewards Efon Alaaye faithful with N400k, household items for massive voter turnout; declares community’s 100% backing for Governor’s second term bid
In a move that has further endeared him to the grassroots, the Technical Adviser on Local Government Project Monitoring and Evaluation to the Governor, Engr. Olabode Adetunji, popularly known as “Water No Get Enemy,” on Sunday stormed Ward 4 in Efon Alaaye with cash and gifts as a heartfelt appreciation for the people’s unwavering dedication.
The community leader, in his characteristic style, doled out a whopping N400,000 alongside household essentials to party faithful, celebrating their massive turnout during the recent state-wide voter registration and verification exercise. He described their enthusiasm as a resounding vote of confidence in the leadership of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO).
Addressing the elated crowd, Engr. Adetunji declared the impressive mobilization as a testament to the people’s commitment to ensuring the continuity of the BAO administration beyond the June 20 governorship election. He charged them to remain steadfast and take full advantage of the extended exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“You have shown the world that Efon stands with BAO! But we cannot stop now,” he urged. “Let us complete the process. Ensure you get your PVCs so that no one is disenfranchised. Our governor has done well, and we must back up our words with action.”
Taking advantage of the gathering, Engr. Adetunji sensitized the community on INEC’s new technological innovations, including the critical step of linking the National Identification Number (NIN) to their voter credentials. He emphasized that the massive infrastructural developments being witnessed across Efon Local Government and the state deserve more than just verbal support.
“Good governance is not supported by funfair alone,” he asserted. “It is protected by your voter’s card. I remain committed to your welfare and to making Efon the pride of this state.”
The distribution of the largesse sparked joyous celebrations, with community leaders lining up to pledge their loyalty to the Oyebanji-led administration.
The Ward Chairman, Mr. Oluwasegun Sunday, who received the items on behalf of members, lauded Engr. Adetunji’s consistency, describing him as a rare breed who refuses to abandon his roots. He highlighted the Adviser’s numerous unseen interventions as a benchmark that sets him apart from other political actors.
“We are not surprised by this gesture; it is his lifestyle,” Mr. Monday stated. “But more importantly, we see the hand of Governor Oyebanji in all of this. From the massive road constructions linking our streets to the renovation of our palace, BAO has delivered. I pledge on behalf of this ward: we are giving him a 100% vote. No shaking!”
The women’s wing was not left out in the chorus of praise. The Local Government Women Leader, Deaconess Abiola Orire, alongside Chief Ayeni Funke, reeled out a litany of achievements, specifically mentioning the Alanoka Road, the Iloro-connecting road, and various empowerment schemes championed by the Governor’s wife, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji.
“We have a performing governor,” they chorused. “Why would we change a working system? BAO needs no campaign in Efon; his projects are campaigning for him.”
Speaking for Youth, Mr. Olaleye Sanmi echoed the sentiment, stating that the Governor has already won the war for their hearts, making a massive campaign unnecessary. “A good turn deserves another. The Governor has touched our lives, and we are ready to show him love on June 20.”
The most emotional testimony, however, came from the senior citizens. A retired civil servant, Mr. Adedayo Ojo, who spoke on behalf of the elders, broke down the Governor’s financial prudence, noting the unprecedented payment of seven months’ pension arrears within a single year. He also highlighted the regular N20,000 monthly payments to local government retirees, a feat he described as unmatched in the state’s history.
“We call him a Governor with a heart of gold,” Mr. Ojo said passionately. “He paid us our arrears, he pays us monthly, and even gave us a Christmas gift of N20,000! No governor in the history of Ekiti has done this. We are old, but our votes are strong, and they are for BAO!”
Engr. Adetunji’s latest outreach is being hailed as another strategic step in a series of deliberate interventions aimed at solidifying the All Progressives Congress (APC) base in Efon, ensuring that the dividends of democracy are felt by all ahead of the crucial governorship poll.
