By Idowu Adebomi, Ado Ekiti
As the build-up to the June 20, 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State intensifies, Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, has cautioned political appointees against disloyalty and acts of betrayal that could tarnish their integrity and damage internal cohesion within the government.
Speaking in Ado Ekiti on Sunday during the burial thanksgiving service in honour of her late mother, Olori Esther Iyalaje Adegboye, held at the Government House Chapel, Mrs Afuye described loyalty as a crucial political virtue. She said it would be a disservice for anyone entrusted with public office to act as a saboteur, particularly after being given the opportunity to serve by Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
The late Olori Adegboye, who passed away on 18 February 2025 at the age of 97, was laid to rest on 27 June at her Ikere Ekiti hometown. The thanksgiving ceremony drew attendance from across the political and social spectrum, including the First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, government officials, traditional rulers, and high-ranking politicians.
In her remarks, the Deputy Governor expressed gratitude to Governor Oyebanji, the First Lady, members of the political class, traditional rulers, and the people of Ekiti for their support in ensuring the funeral was successful and dignified.
Alluding to the approaching 2026 governorship race, Mrs Afuye called for unity and steadfastness within the ranks of government, urging political appointees to remain faithful to the administration and appreciative of their roles, no matter how small.
“Let us be committed to the government in whatever position we are given. You might be holding a small position; be contented with it and be loyal to that cause,” she advised.
She continued, “We thank God that Ekiti is peaceful under Governor Oyebanji and moving forward in all aspects. This has been recognised near and far, not only in the South-West alone, but across Nigeria, that our governor is performing and delivering.”
The Deputy Governor noted that criticism from detractors is to be expected but called on insiders to remain focused and loyal. “There is nothing the governor can do that can please the adversaries. That is why you are seeing those negative comments coming. You can’t but expect them. To those of us who are inside, let us be loyal and do what is right at all times.”
Expressing optimism for the future, she added, “I know that by this time of next year, we will be jubilating and rejoicing in the life of Ekiti State and our Governor by the grace of God.”
In his sermon, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ekiti State chapter, Dr Emmanuel Aribasoye, cited Psalm 17:1–12 and implored citizens to live upright and honest lives, stating that righteousness is the pathway to national progress.
Prayers for the deceased’s family, Governor Oyebanji, Ekiti State, and the country at large were led by the Government House Chaplain, Pastor Segun Awolumate.
