The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Otunba Richard Adeniyi Adebayo has turndown a call by some groups asking him to contest in the Governorship race of Ekiti State in the year 2022.
Adebayo, while reacting to speculation from some quarters dragging his attention to contesting for the Governorship seat said, he would rather focus on his assignments as a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and work to achieve the goals of President Muhammadu Buhari for all Nigerians at this moment.
He however, assure his supporters of his readiness to work for the development of Ekiti State and give encouragement to all Nigerians who are serving and those who crave to serve in various capacities.
“I am aware of the recent developments where people are agitating for me to contest the Governorship of Ekiti State in 2022.
“With every sense of humility and respect, I want to thank them for believing in me. However, I must state clearly that I am not interested in the race for personal reasons.
“As a leader, it was a privilege to serve as the first Executive Governor of the State where I did my best leaving behind verifiable legacy projects.
“My interest now is to continue playing my leadership roles of ensuring that our dear State is peaceful, well governed and to encourage the next generation of leaders to emerge.
“At the Federal level, I am currently engaged with the responsibilities of my office as a minister and how to ensure that the economic diversification goals of President Muhammadu Buhari for the Country are achieved during this second term.
“At all times, I will be available to offer my advice, support and encouragement to all Nigerians who are serving and those who crave to serve in various capacities especially those of Ekiti extractions.”
Modupe Arotolu
