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…Candidate Says State Needs Practical Solutions, Not Political Rhetoric Ahead of June 20 Election
With less than two weeks to the Ekiti State governorship election, the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Otunba Peter Obafemi, has called on political actors to shift attention from partisan exchanges to substantive discussions on the economic and social challenges confronting the state.
In a statement released ahead of the June 20 governorship poll, Obafemi said the future of Ekiti State depends on practical, sustainable solutions capable of addressing unemployment, poverty, food insecurity, infrastructure deficits, healthcare concerns, educational challenges and security threats.
According to the SDP standard-bearer, interactions with residents across the state have revealed widespread concern about the state of the economy and the limited opportunities available to many citizens.
“As Ekiti State prepares for the June 20, 2026 governorship election, it is important that public discourse remains focused on the issues that directly affect the lives and livelihoods of our people,” he stated.
The governorship hopeful disclosed that he had engaged with “residents, community leaders, farmers, traders, civil servants, students, artisans, professionals, and members of the private sector across various parts of the state,” adding that a recurring concern from those consultations was “the need for practical and sustainable solutions to the economic and social challenges confronting Ekiti.”
Obafemi identified youth unemployment as one of the state’s most urgent challenges, warning that the continued migration of skilled professionals and educated young people could undermine future development.
“One of the most pressing issues is youth unemployment and the increasing migration of skilled professionals from the state,” he said.
“Ekiti continues to produce highly educated graduates and talented individuals, yet the absence of sufficient industries and large-scale employers has limited opportunities for gainful employment. This situation has contributed to the movement of many of our young people to other states and cities in search of opportunities.”
He stressed that reversing the trend would require deliberate government intervention aimed at stimulating economic growth and attracting investment.
“Addressing this challenge requires deliberate investment in economic development. The state must create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, encourage entrepreneurship, support innovation, and attract investments capable of generating employment opportunities.”
The SDP candidate specifically identified agriculture, technology, manufacturing, tourism, and small and medium-scale enterprises as sectors capable of driving economic transformation and creating jobs for thousands of young people.
On food security and poverty, Obafemi expressed concern that many communities continue to experience economic hardship despite the state’s vast agricultural resources.
“Poverty and food insecurity also remain significant concerns. While Ekiti possesses vast agricultural potential, many communities continue to experience economic hardship,” he noted.
He advocated greater investment in modern agriculture, access to financing, storage facilities, value-chain development and market access for farmers.
“There is a need for greater investment in modern agricultural practices, access to credit for farmers, improved storage facilities, value addition, and better market access. Strengthening the agricultural value chain will not only improve food security but also create jobs and stimulate rural development.”
Obafemi also warned against the state’s continued dependence on federal allocations, describing economic diversification as a critical requirement for long-term development.
“Another critical issue is the state’s reliance on federal allocations. Sustainable development requires a stronger local economy and a broader revenue base,” he said.
According to him, efforts should focus on expanding economic activities, promoting investment, supporting private-sector growth and improving institutional efficiency.
Turning to infrastructure, the SDP flagbearer acknowledged ongoing improvements in road development but maintained that many rural roads still require urgent intervention.
“Infrastructure remains central to economic growth. Although progress has been recorded in road construction and rehabilitation, many rural and intra-community roads require attention.”
He added that improved transportation infrastructure would enhance commerce, facilitate agricultural productivity and strengthen inter-community connectivity.
The governorship candidate further drew attention to persistent challenges in water supply and sanitation across several communities.
“Access to potable water and sanitation remains a challenge in several parts of the state. Given Ekiti’s unique topography, innovative and sustainable solutions are required to expand water supply systems and improve sanitation infrastructure.”
Describing clean water as fundamental to public health and development, he called for strategic investments that would guarantee sustainable access for residents.
On security, Obafemi emphasized the need for stronger cooperation among security agencies, traditional rulers and local communities.
“The safety of lives and property remains a prerequisite for economic growth and social stability,” he said.
“Strong collaboration among security agencies, local communities, traditional institutions, and relevant stakeholders is essential in addressing emerging security challenges and maintaining public confidence.”
The SDP candidate also advocated increased investment in healthcare, particularly in rural communities where access to quality medical services remains limited.
“The healthcare sector requires renewed focus, particularly in rural communities where access to quality healthcare services remains limited,” he stated.
He called for the strengthening of primary healthcare centres, improved medical infrastructure and expanded preventive healthcare programmes.
On education, Obafemi urged stakeholders not to allow the state’s celebrated educational heritage to decline.
“Education, which has historically been one of Ekiti’s greatest strengths, must remain a priority. The state has earned a reputation as the Fountain of Knowledge, but current realities call for renewed investment in educational infrastructure, teacher development, student support systems, and policies aimed at reducing school dropouts and improving learning outcomes.”
As campaigns enter their final phase, the SDP candidate urged political parties and candidates to focus on policies and governance issues rather than distractions.
“As the governorship election approaches, I believe it is important for candidates, political parties, and stakeholders to engage citizens on substantive policy issues and practical solutions. Elections should provide an opportunity to discuss ideas, evaluate plans, and consider the future direction of our state.”
Obafemi expressed optimism that the state’s challenges could be overcome through effective leadership and prudent management of resources.
“The challenges facing Ekiti are significant, but they are not insurmountable. With responsible leadership, strategic planning, prudent management of resources, and the collective efforts of all stakeholders, the state can achieve sustainable economic growth, improved social welfare, and greater opportunities for its people.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to policies that promote development, inclusion and shared prosperity, pledging to continue contributing to conversations aimed at building a stronger and more prosperous Ekiti State.
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