A group, the Forum for Good Governance and Probity, has stressed the need for peace in Ekiti State if it wishes to achieve meaningful development.
The group, in a communique after its meeting on Monday in London, said the recent escalation of political unrest in the state has become a cause for concern for everyone.
It blamed the crisis on the ambition of some people to unseat Governor Ayo Fayose, saying the governor was not only validly elected, he is also loved by his people.
The communique said: “On June 21, 2014, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) conducted the governorship election in Ekiti State, of which, People Democratic Party (PDP) got 203,090 votes representing 62.77% of total votes cast compared to All Progressive Congress of 120,433 votes. Of all the states in the Southwest Nigeria, it was on the record that PDP won the 2015 Presidential election in Ekiti State with approximately 59.46% of total valid votes cast, while at the State House of Assembly election, PDP won all the available seats across the Fountain of Knowledge.
“It is obvious that the majority of Ekiti people love Governor Ayo Fayose which was evidenced in his resounding victory in every electoral contest at all levels. The victory of the governor at the 2014 election was also upheld by the Supreme Court. The level of ongoing crisis in the state due to attempt to unseat the Governor Ayo Fayose for alleged constitutional breaches is uncalled for.”
The FFGG said after a thorough review of the contending issues, it has come to the conclusion that it is time for the aggrieved lawmakers to sheath their swords and all peace to reign.
It admonished Fayose to call a meeting of all stakeholders in the state for the resolution of contending issues.
It added: “The interest of the people of the State should take priority seat before either individual or political affiliations come to play. We urge the 19 lawmakers and their party to see the issue at hand as learning space. In four years time, another round of elections will be calling, we advice them to go and strategise and allow peace to reign. Those who have lost out in the electioneering process at any levels, should be preparing for future electoral opportunities
“The hired or acclaimed loyalists who volunteered to cause social unrest should engage themselves in productive activities that will promote overall economic development of the state. The Governor should make appropriate corrective measures and caution his aides so as to deescalate the tension in the state.”
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