In a rare show of unity and appreciation, labour union leaders in Ekiti State have endorsed Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term.
They lauded his exceptional commitment to workers’ welfare and the overall development of the state.
The endorsement came during a Labour Round Table Meeting held at Lady Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado-Ekiti.
NLC leaders pledged continued support for the governor’s policies and programmes, which they described as instrumental to the state’s transformation and the fulfilment of the ‘shared prosperity’ agenda.
In their remarks, Kolapo Olatunde (NLC), Sola Adigun (TUC), and Oluseye Babatunde (NULGE) praised Oyebanji for prioritising workers’ welfare.
They cited achievements such as the clearance of over nine months of salary arrears, prompt payment of salaries, pensions and gratuities, timely promotion approvals, and the implementation of one of the best minimum wage structures in the country.
They noted that the payment of the N70,000 minimum wage without prolonged negotiation reflects the Governor’s deep understanding of the economic pressures facing workers and his sincere efforts to ease their burdens.
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“This is the first time since the creation of Ekiti State that workers are getting what is due to them without protest or confrontation,” the union leaders said.
“Governor Oyebanji is an answer to the prayers of workers in this state.”
Reflecting on past struggles, they recalled the difficulty of negotiating an N13,000 minimum wage in earlier years and contrasted it with the smooth and swift approval of the current N70,000 wage.
“When we saw the figures, I told the panel that my people would rejoice. Thank you, Mr Governor, for making us proud,” one of the leaders remarked.
Also speaking at the event, the Head of Service, Folakemi Olomojobi, commended the governor’s unwavering focus on workers’ wellbeing
She disclosed that over N30 million was approved in the last 12 months to address health challenges among public servants.
The Special Assistant on Labour Matters, Kayode Fatomiluyi, also applauded the governor for honouring all promises made during his campaign.
However, Oyebanji expressed gratitude for the endorsement, describing it as an ‘uncommon gesture’ from labour leaders.
He said their support inspires greater dedication and acknowledged that much of the progress made was possible due to the economic reforms of President Bola Tinubu.
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“Beyond God, we must thank President Tinubu for the bold and visionary steps he has taken, which have freed up resources and enabled states like ours to meet the needs of the people,” Oyebanji said.
“If such funds are coming into Ekiti, they must be used in a way that benefits both those in government and the general populace.”
