Ekiti 2022: APC chieftain, Adebayo denies eying governorship seat

By Ikechukwu Okaforadi

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Otunba Richard Adeniyi Adebayo, yesterday denied speculations that he is planning to contest the governorship race of Ekiti State in 2022.
The Minister, who first governed Ekiti State between 1999 and 2003 made this known on Monday in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Julius Toba-Jegede.
The Minister was reacting to the recent springing up of some billboards across Ado Ekiti, the state capital and other strategic locations across the state by some political groups, calling on him to join the race in view of what they described as his good leadership traits.
He said though he appreciates the various calls from the group and other pressure groups, he would rather be focused on his current assignment as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, where he is helping President Mohammadu Buhari to achieve his goals for all Nigerians during this second term.
“I am aware of the recent development of people agitating for me to contest the governorship of Ekiti State in 2022.
“With every sense of humility and respect, I want to thank them for believing in me. However, I must state clearly that I am not interested in the running for the office of governor of Ekiti State again.
“As a leader, it was a privilege to serve Ekiti as its First Executive Governor where I did my best leaving behind verifiable legacy projects.
“My interest now is to continue playing my leadership role of ensuring that our dear state is peaceful, well governed and to encourage the next generation of leaders to emerge.
“At the federal level, I am currently engaged with the responsibilities of my office as a Minister and how to ensure that the economic diversification goals of President Mohammadu Buhari for the country are achieved during this second term.
“’At all times, I will be available to offer my advice, support and encouragement to all Nigerians who are serving and those who crave to serve in various capacities, especially those of Ekiti extraction.” the Minister said.