The governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the June 20 election in Ekiti State, Wole Oluyede, has described the state’s annual budgetary allocation to the health sector as inadequate.
Speaking during a radio interview in Ado-Ekiti on Wednesday, Oluyede emphasised that the provision of accessible and quality healthcare is a fundamental responsibility of government. He pledged to generate N72 billion annually from the sector if elected, though he declined to disclose details of his strategy.
The PDP candidate also expressed concern over the current economic hardship and rising insecurity in the state, assuring residents that his administration would implement policies to drive growth, create wealth, and attract investors.
Oluyede stated that he does not rely on any political godfather, attributing his support base to “God the Father” and the backing of the people. He cited the recent restoration rally held in Ikere-Ekiti as evidence of growing grassroots support.
Addressing issues of equity, Oluyede lamented that the Ekiti South Senatorial District has not produced a governor since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999. He noted that leaders such as Niyi Adebayo, Kayode Fayemi, Ayodele Fayose, Segun Oni, and Biodun Oyebanji have all emerged from the Central and North districts.
He described the situation as unfair and called for power rotation to the South, insisting that it is time for the zone to produce the next governor.
The candidate, a former member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and African Democratic Congress (ADC), said he joined the PDP after becoming dissatisfied with internal democracy in his previous parties. He added that his political experience across parties has broadened his support base.
Oluyede also outlined key policy priorities, including improved security, quality education with emphasis on science and technology, agricultural development to ensure food security, and enhanced welfare for civil servants and pensioners.
He further promised to establish an Independent Power Plant to guarantee stable electricity supply in the state.
Reaffirming his commitment to issue-based campaigning, Oluyede urged voters to support him in the forthcoming election, pledging to deliver on his promises if elected.
