Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has cautioned local government chairmen across the state to avoid financial mismanagement and wasteful spending that could undermine the financial autonomy recently granted to the councils.
Speaking through his Deputy, Monisade Afuye, during an event held in Igogo Ekiti, Ero Local Council Development Area, on Monday, the governor said financial freedom at the grassroots was aimed at facilitating meaningful development through landmark and people-oriented projects.
Oyebanji stressed that the intention behind granting autonomy was not for the funds to be diverted or squandered on frivolous activities, warning that such abuse would defeat the very essence of the policy.
“The main goal of financial autonomy is to empower local governments to carry out impactful projects for their people. This will be impossible if council funds are misappropriated,” he warned.
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In a related development, the deputy governor urged residents of the state to support Oyebanji’s second-term ambition, saying the administration needs more time to sustain and expand its developmental programmes across all communities in the state.
As the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti draws closer, Oyebanji also urged citizens above the age of 18 to take part in the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“To participate in the upcoming June 20, 2026 governorship election, eligible citizens must register with INEC. Your vote is your voice,” he added.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to good governance, accountability, and grassroots development, promising that every local government would feel the impact of responsible leadership.
