The Ekiti Progressives Assembly (EPA) has raised concerns over governance in Ekiti State, urging Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji to address what it described as challenges in healthcare, infrastructure, and sustainable economic growth.
Speaking at a press conference in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, the Convener of the group, Mr. Babajide Alofe (Ekiti West LGA), and Secretary, Mr. Kehinde Oni Oloke (Oye LGA), said the Assembly’s position was not partisan but aimed at safeguarding the dignity and progress of the state.
The group acknowledged the reported rise in the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from about ₦650 million to ₦2.3 billion monthly within three years—an increase that ranked Ekiti among the fastest-growing states in revenue generation nationwide. However, it questioned the sustainability of the growth, noting that over 80 percent of the revenue came from personal income tax, while agriculture and industrial development had not been significantly improved.
“The citizens bear the brunt of this taxation-driven revenue growth rather than benefit from it,” the group said.
The Assembly also pointed to abandoned healthcare facilities in Iropora-Ekiti and Igede-Ekiti, and expressed concern over the state of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, which it said needed urgent attention to meet the needs of residents.
On infrastructure, the group faulted the neglect of some strategic roads, particularly the Ado–Aramoko route, even as other road projects were being commissioned. It described the situation as selective development that leaves vital areas underserved.
The EPA further criticised the condition of schools and healthcare facilities across the state, saying many remained under-equipped despite budgetary provisions. It also raised concerns about land disputes, particularly the controversy over Agbeyewa Farms in Ikole, warning against policies that appear to favour multinational companies over local farmers.
While acknowledging government assurances on plans to renovate more than 100 health facilities across the 16 local government areas under the World Bank–supported IMPACT programme, the group urged quicker implementation so that citizens could feel the benefits.
Calling on different stakeholders, the Assembly urged youths to demand genuine opportunities in education and enterprise, women to insist on inclusion beyond patronage, and civil servants to uphold professionalism. It also tasked the media to continue exposing corruption and amplifying citizens’ concerns.
“Ekiti deserves empowerment, not crumbs,” the group declared, adding that real transformation requires infrastructure and services that directly impact the lives of the people.
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
