Oyebanji Warns Ekiti LG Bosses Against Misuse of Financial Autonomy

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has urged local government chairmen to avoid reckless spending and mismanagement that could undermine the financial autonomy recently granted to councils in the state.

Speaking on Monday during the inauguration of projects facilitated by Felicia Ibiloye, Chairman of Ero Local Council Development Area, Oyebanji said that the intent of financial freedom was to enable councils to execute impactful projects at the grassroots.

He cautioned that the opportunity could be wasted if allocations were diverted or squandered.

“The cardinal focus of financial freedom is to ignite the execution of landmark and beneficial projects at the third tier of government. We hope that this opportunity wouldn’t be abused in the overall interest of our people,” he said.

Represented by Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, Oyebanji reminded the council bosses that autonomy was not a licence for frivolities, stressing that prudence and accountability must guide their use of public funds.

The governor noted that local councils in Ekiti had already begun to deliver in areas such as road infrastructure, healthcare, school renovation, market stall construction, and farming projects aimed at boosting food security.

He commended Ibiloye for the newly completed Ero LCDA Secretariat Complex, the launch of the Adire Ekiti Fabric initiative, and the BAO Aged Foundation outreach, which distributed clothing and rice palliatives to elderly residents.

Oyebanji also called on residents to support his second-term bid and to participate in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration exercise ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship election.

In her remarks, Ibiloye credited her administration’s achievements to the autonomy granted by the state government, highlighting projects such as erosion control works, solar power installation, culvert construction, and the establishment of an okada park.

She said the new secretariat was a “masterpiece” that would provide a more conducive working environment for council staff, while assuring that all projects would be completed before the end of her tenure.