Ekiti Promoting Participatory Democracy, Says Ex-Commissioner

The Town Hall meeting and stakeholders’ engagement embarked upon by the Ekiti State government have been described as an action to elevate populist and participatory democracy in the state.
The immediate past state Commissioner for Youth Development, Hon. Adesola Gold Adedayo, who stated this, said the move will easily help the people take ownership of the government and order their projects according to priorities.

Speaking in Ado Ekiti at the weekend, Adedayo noted that the engagement held in Ijero, Ise/Orun and Otun Ekiti, located across the state’s three senatorial districts, was designed towards the preparation of the 2026 Budget.

The former commissioner posited that the state government has dismantled the endemic oligarchy in state governance and fully returned to participatory democracy, where all citizens are considered strategic development partners.
He added that Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s leadership style shows respect for the populace by seeking their input on the composition of the 2026 budget proposal. It is inclusive, transparent, and truly represents the people’s yearnings.

Adedayo commended him for implementing the 2025 appropriation Law to 75 per cent, saying this shows that the government is diligent in executing its fiscal responsibilities.

“I am elated that the voices of traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups, student leaders and other stakeholders further attested to the Governor’s commitment to participatory governance and satisfactory performance rating.

“The overwhelming support expressed by the people of Ekiti North, South and Central Senatorial Districts has once again underscored that Governor Oyebanji’s second term is not only secured but divinely ordained”.

Adedayo added that the Town Hall Engagement reaffirms the Oyebanji administration’s dedication to ensuring that the 2026 budget reflects the genuine needs and aspirations of the people, thereby sustaining the Governor’s vision of shared prosperity for all Ekiti citizens.