From Priscilla Ediare, Ado-Ekiti
The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has cautioned communities engaging in fierce squabbles over the siting of the Federal College of Education in Ekiti not to drag him into raging crisis between Omuo and Ilawe Ekiti, which have been embroiled in battle over the matter.
Oyebanji posited that the Federal Government enjoys the exclusive rights to site the Federal College of Education in any town it deems fit, stressing that as Governor, he has no power to manipulate the process in favour of any particular town.
Speaking on Tuesday in Ikere Ekiti, during the second day of the Town Hall Meeting With Stakeholders in Ekiti South Senatorial District, the Governor urged the monarchs of the two communities not to allow the siting of the College strain the harmonious relationship between them.
He said, “We have nothing to do with the federal College of Education. It belongs to the federal government and Ekiti people shouldn’t be dragged into it.
“As Ilawe is laying claim to it, Omuo community is laying claim to it, so the way some people are speaking suggested that they are trying to drag me into the crisis, but I won’t be part of it. I know that the Federal Government has the power to site it wherever it likes. But wherever it is sited, either Omuo or Ilawe, it is still Ekiti.
“Olomuo, Oba Noah Omonigbehin and Alawe, Oba Ajibade Alabi are brothers, the two communities should continue to live together in harmony. Nothing should be allowed to divide you. I know and I am confident that this matter will be resolved amicably.”