Matters Arising: The Need To Elect a Better Representative for Ekiti North Senatorial District in 2027

— (from above) Ekiti Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, Sen. Cyril Fasuyi, Sen. Bunmi Adetunmbi, Sen. Ayo Arise

By Johnson Adegboyega

As the next political dispensation approaches and preparations for the 2027 general elections begin to gather momentum, I feel compelled as a media practitioner, citizen of Ekiti State, and concerned constituent of Ekiti North Senatorial District to address this message to All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders, loyalists, and the entire electorate of the district.

Before delving into the core of this discussion, I urge the public particularly politically conscious and concerned citizens of Ekiti North to critically evaluate the performance of Senator Cyril Fasuyi over the past three years.

Recently, during a visit to my hometown to check on my aged mother, I took time to tour several communities within the district.
As an investigative journalist, I felt it necessary to observe firsthand the level of development in the area. What I saw was deeply concerning.

Despite the visible infrastructural strides made by Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) across Ekiti State, I struggled to identify any significant project facilitated by the current senator representing Ekiti North.
This observation raises an important question: What exactly has Senator Cyril Fasuyi been doing in the Senate?

When Cyril Fasuyi first emerged as the senatorial candidate for Ekiti North, many people already had reservations. His previous role as Director General of the Ekiti State Microcredit Scheme, under former Governor Segun Oni, ended in controversy as the scheme reportedly collapsed under heavy debts due to unredeemed loans.

Although the matter faded from public discourse after the administration left office, the experience raised serious concerns about leadership and management capacity.

This background prompted my decision to educate and remind our people of the need to make wiser choices in future elections.
History has shown that when candidates are imposed or delegates are induced, the result is often poor representation, exactly what many believe Ekiti North is experiencing today.

The Contrast with Previous Representation:
During the tenure of Senator Ayo Arise (2007–2011) under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ekiti North witnessed what many stakeholders still describe as a golden era of representation.
Some of the landmark achievements during his tenure include:
Federal University, Oye Ekiti (FUOYE)
Senator Arise played a significant role in influencing the establishment of the university in Ekiti North.

Today, FUOYE stands as a major educational and economic driver for the region.
Multi-Campus Development
The university development strategically benefited several communities including Ikole, Itapa, Ilupeju, and Ayegbaju, ensuring widespread impact across the district.
Technology and Digital Advocacy
With his background as a certified hardware engineer and Microsoft professional, Senator Arise promoted digital infrastructure and electronic commerce in Nigeria.
He also served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Privatization during the 6th Senate.
Even in recent years, he has remained vocal on national issues, including his advocacy for State Police to improve Nigeria’s security architecture.

Similarly, Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi, who represented the district afterward, facilitated several developmental initiatives, including:
Employment opportunities in federal agencies such as the Fire Service, Immigration, Civil Defence, and Nigerian Customs Service
Construction of township roads and drainage systems
Installation of solar-powered streetlights
Provision of boreholes across communities.
These initiatives significantly impacted the lives of the people.

Unfortunately, the same cannot be confidently said of the current senator, Cyril Fasuyi.

Concerns About the Current Representation:
After more than three years in office, many constituents believe that Ekiti North cannot point to any major infrastructure, empowerment programme, or transformative project facilitated by the senator.
Observers argue that his representation appears inactive and disconnected from the needs of the people.

One controversial episode cited by critics occurred during the leadership contest of the 10th Senate, when divisions emerged between supporters of Godswill Akpabio and Abdulaziz Yari. Allegations surfaced that one senator from the South worked behind the scenes with the opposing camp.
Some stakeholders believe such political maneuvering may have affected opportunities for constituents, raising questions about loyalty and representation.

Comparison with Other Senators
Across Nigeria today, several senators are actively empowering their constituencies.
Examples frequently cited include:
Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi) – Ogun West
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan – Kogi Central
Senator Ned Nwoko – Delta North
Senator Aliyu Wadada – Nasarawa West
Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno – Borno North
Even within Ekiti State:
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central).
Senator Yemi Adaramodu (Ekiti South) have been visible through projects, legislative activities, and empowerment initiatives.

Critics argue that Ekiti North deserves no less.Token Gestures Versus Meaningful Empowerment

Some observers point to the senator’s widely publicized distribution of 4,000 GCE forms to students as a major empowerment effort.

However, many constituents believe such gestures, though helpful, fall short of the scale expected from a federal lawmaker.
In other districts, senators facilitate: Skill acquisition programmes, Job placements in federal agencies, Grants for small businesses, Empowerment tools for artisans, Vehicles and equipment for transport operators.
These initiatives significantly improve livelihoods.

Voices from the Youth:
Recently, student leaders from Ekiti North added their voices to the growing concerns.
The Federation of Ekiti State Students’ Union (FESSU National) and various Local Government Student Union Presidents reportedly expressed disappointment over unfulfilled promises of student empowerment.

According to their statement, the senator had earlier requested a list of twenty students from each local government for empowerment programmes, but months later no initiative had materialized.
For many young people, this raised questions about commitment and accountability.

A Call for Political Consciousness:
As citizens, we must avoid the dangerous culture of short-term inducements during elections.

The popular slogan “d’ibo ko s’ebe” (vote and collect money to cook soup) may provide temporary satisfaction, but it ultimately destroys the future of our communities.

Ekiti is a state known for education, intellectualism, and political awareness.
We must therefore choose leaders based on competence, vision, and track record—not temporary handouts.

Commendation for the Governor:
While expressing these concerns, it is also important to acknowledge the efforts of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO).
Across Ekiti State, his administration has delivered visible developmental projects and governance reforms, helping to drive economic and infrastructural growth.
In many cases, these achievements have inadvertently masked the absence of senatorial impact in Ekiti North.

Final Thoughts:
The role of a senator goes beyond occupying a seat in the National Assembly. A senator is expected to:

Facilitate development projects.

Advocate for the needs of constituents.

Sponsor impactful legislation
Secure opportunities for citizens
Promote empowerment and economic growth.
Many residents believe Ekiti North has not received this level of representation in recent years.
As the 2027 elections approach, the people of Ekiti North must carefully assess their options.
Our future—and the future of generations yet unborn—depends on electing leaders who will genuinely represent the interests of the people.
As a journalist and concerned indigene of Ekiti North Senatorial District, this article is simply my way of encouraging civic awareness and responsible political choices.
I seek no political office and support no particular aspirant.
But I believe strongly that Ekiti North deserves better representation.

— Adegboyega Johnson

Media practitioner, Chief Editorial Officer, Metropolix Magazine and Online.