Ekiti House of Assembly Speaker, Adeoye Aribasoye, has urged citizens of the state to approach the new year with a high and hopeful attitude, even as he assured them of more mass-friendly legislation.

Mr Aribasoye, in a state statement issued by his special adviser on media, Babajide Agbeyo, on Monday in Ado-Ekiti, expressed optimism that 2024 would be a year of comfort for the citizens of the state.

He said that the legislature, under his watch, would continue to place priority on bills that would advance the interests and welfare of the masses.

The speaker congratulated the people of the state for witnessing another year, promising continued commitment to service by him and his colleagues in the 7th Assembly.

“I extend my heartfelt New Year wishes to the resilient people of Ekiti State.

“Thanking God for His mercies, my colleagues and I are steadfastly committed to serving you with unwavering dedication and integrity as we embrace the promise of the new year.

“Our unyielding commitment to fulfilling our legislative duties, working tirelessly to represent and amplify people’s voices, upholding transparency and advancing the welfare of our community shall be sustained,” he assured.

Mr Aribasoye thanked the residents for their patience and perseverance in 2023 due to the prevailing economic situation across the country.

He said that the assembly would do everything within its capacity to support anything that would lessen the burdens of the masses in the new year.

“This new year will be different positively for us in Ekiti, by the grace of God.

“The Seventh Assembly that I’m privileged to lead is absolutely and resolutely committed to making laws that are pro-masses.

We are aware of the sacrifices of Nigerians, of which the Ekiti people are part, in the face of the effects of fuel subsidy removal.

“The least we could do for our people at a time like this is to ensure that bills and motions related to cushioning the effects of the harsh economy get our nod,” he said.

The speaker said that the Governor Biodun Oyebanji-led administration was committed to delivering on its electoral promises.

He, however, stressed the need for key stakeholders and relevant arms of government to continue to support the present administration in the state.

“Governor Biodun Oyebanji is a people’s governor. He has not hidden his passion to make life more comfortable for the Ekiti populace. For this, I will always cooperate with him in the best interest of Ekiti,” he said.

Mr Aribasoye, however, called for more prayers from the people of the state so that happenings would align with expectations for those at the helm of affairs in the new year.

“The place of prayer is essential to the blueprint of any mortal.

“I call on the Ekiti people to fervently pray for this government and the state so that happenings in the new year will fuel the lovely and lofty visions of government for the people.

“Pray for Ekiti State; pray for those of us in government; and pray for all decision-makers and influencers. This will go a long way in our 2024 journey as a state,” he said. 

(NAN)