As the 2026 governorship election approaches in Ekiti State, Dr. Wole Oluyede, former African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the 2022 election, has called for a shift away from reliance on federal allocations. Oluyede, an Australia-based medical practitioner, emphasized that only a productive and self-sufficient government can truly address the state’s challenges.
In a recent meeting with members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Ikere-Ekiti, Oluyede criticized both past and current governments for their over-reliance on federal funds, which he claims has perpetuated poverty in Ekiti State. He argued that the state has not effectively utilized its abundant resources, resulting in stagnation and underdevelopment.
Oluyede pointed out, “God has blessed us with a lot of resources in Ekiti. The stones and other materials I used in building this house were bought in Ekiti. We are richly blessed in Ekiti, yet we complain of poverty.”
He lamented that the state’s dependence on federal allocations has been detrimental, saying, “The day Ekiti started spending federal allocation was the beginning of our problem. Our old schools and infrastructure were not built with federal funds.”
According to Oluyede, previous administrations have failed to harness local resources effectively. He noted, “When we were growing up, Ado-Ekiti was more prosperous. We had businessmen and industrialists who contributed to the state’s economy. We must return to a productive economy and stop relying on federal handouts.”
Oluyede further asserted that a productive government would create wealth and eliminate poverty. He challenged all past and present leaders of Ekiti, stating, “Only a foolish man eats his yam seedlings. We must stop consuming our resources and instead focus on production.”
Oluyede pledged that if elected governor, he would prioritize the state’s development and not engage in corruption. He stated, “I will not steal a kobo. My goal is to make Ekiti prosperous and self-reliant.”
He also addressed PDP members, urging them to unite and work together to reposition the party for future success. Oluyede emphasized the importance of grassroots organization and expressed his commitment to strengthening the party’s position in the state.
Regarding his own political future, Oluyede clarified that he has not yet declared his candidacy for the governorship but is open to the possibility. He urged the PDP to focus on rebuilding and preparing for the upcoming elections.
In attendance at the meeting were prominent PDP leaders, including former Speaker of the State House of Assembly Pastor Kola Oluwawole, former state chairman Barr. Gboyega Oguntuase, and several former commissioners and local government chairmen.
Oluyede’s remarks highlight a broader discussion on the need for local resource utilization and self-sufficiency as key elements in addressing the developmental challenges facing Ekiti State.
