Oyebanji: Without Abacha, Ekiti State Would Not Have Been Created

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has said the state owes a debt of gratitude to former military Head of State, General Sani Abacha, for its creation in 1996.

Oyebanji made the remark at the ‘Ekiti at 30 Future Summit’ in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, where he reflected on the history and struggles that preceded the creation of the state.

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Ekiti State was created on October 1, 1996, from the old Ondo State during the military administration of Abacha. The governor said the people of Ekiti had distinguished themselves in education, public administration, commerce, agriculture, culture and national service, while their leaders persistently advocated for the creation of a separate state.

He acknowledged the contributions of traditional rulers, community leaders, professionals, academics, political actors and women’s organisations to the agitation for state creation, but singled out Abacha for his role in approving the creation of Ekiti State.

Oyebanji said, “Some people will not like to hear my next statement but that is the truth, we owe a debt of gratitude to Gen. Sani Abacha who was the Head of State when the state was created.”

The governor added, “Without that man, Abacha, we will not be here. Kabiyisi will tell you what they contended with but God used Abacha and we are grateful.”