Matters Arising: The Need To Elect a Better Representative for Ekiti North Senatorial District in 2027 By St. 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 representations where many amenities and infrastructures like, employment opportunities, loans and grants, empowerment facilitities were provided and constituents really enjoyed the dividends of democracy

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.

Johnson Adegboyega, a Lagos based media practitioner is the Chief Editorial Officer of Metropolix Magazine/Online and Ekiti Metropolix

saintjohnx7@gmail.com, metropolixofficial@gmail.com