𝐎𝐲𝐞𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐣𝐢'𝐬 𝐕𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲, 𝐄𝐝𝐚-𝐎𝐧𝐢𝐲𝐨'𝐬 𝐊𝐢𝐝𝐧𝐚𝐩: 𝐖𝐡𝐲 "𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬" 𝐈𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐘𝐞𝐭 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭

In politics, victories are often measured by endorsements, alliances, and electoral prospects. By those standards, Governor Biodun Oyebanji is currently enjoying a remarkable season sequel to his victory at the gubernatorial election that took place in Ekiti state on the 20^th June, 2026. No doubt, the wave of support from political stakeholders across Ekiti State and beyond has reinforced his growing reputation as a leader whose style of governance has earned widespread acceptance.Yet, at this very moment, there is a reason why congratulations should wait.

The kidnap of sixteen worshipers at Eda-Oniyo about two months ago should bring about a sobering reality into what is seen as a season of celebration. While politicians and supporters exchange pleasantries and commendations, some families are living through uncertainty, friends are gripped by anxiety and an entire community is reminded that insecurity remains one of the greatest threats to public well-being.

This is not an attempt to diminish Governor Oyebanji's achievements. Indeed, his administration has recorded notable successes in infrastructure development, public service delivery, workers' welfare, and stakeholder engagement. The broad-based support he currently enjoys did not emerge by accident. It is largely a reflection of deliberate efforts at inclusive governance and responsible leadership. However, governance is ultimately judged not only by what is built but also by what is protected.

The kidnapping of any citizen is a direct assault on the social contract between government and the governed. It sends a message of fear where there should be confidence. It creates anxiety where there should be peace. Most importantly, it reminds us that no amount of political goodwill can substitute for the fundamental responsibility of securing lives and property.

The unfortunate reality is that insecurity has become increasingly democratic in Nigeria. Communities once considered safe are now vulnerable. Criminal elements have become more daring, exploiting gaps in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and law enforcement. No state can afford to assume immunity from this national challenge.

For Ekiti, a state long admired for its relative peace and stability, incidents of insecurity such as the abduction of worshipers at Eda-Oniyo is particularly disturbing. It raises questions that demand urgent answers. How did this happen? What measures are being taken to secure their release? What additional steps are necessary to prevent future occurrences? These questions matter far more than political calculations.

At times like this, leadership is measured less by the number of endorsements received and more by the speed, effectiveness, and compassion with which crises are managed. Citizens are not looking for political rhetoric; they are looking for reassurance. They want to know that their government understands the gravity of the situation and is deploying every available resource to guarantee safety. This is why congratulations are not yet important.

The true celebration will be when Eda-Oniyo kidnapped victims regain freedom and return safely to their loved ones. The true victory will be when communities can go about their daily activities without fear of abduction. The true endorsement will come not from politicians but from citizens who feel secure in their homes, farms, businesses, and places of worship. Until then, the moment calls for vigilance rather than celebration, action rather than applause, and collective resolve rather than political fanfare.

Governor Oyebanji may well deserve the commendations he is receiving. But at a time when some of Ekiti's own remain in the hands of kidnappers, the most meaningful message is not "Congratulations." It is: "Bring our people home safely."

Michael Olaogun, a policy researcher and democracy observer wrote from Abuja.

michaelolaogun2014@gmail.com