Poll boosts hospitality industry in Ekiti

The hospitality industry in Ekiti State has received a boost as thousands of visitors converged in Ado-Ekiti for Saturday’s gubernatorial election.

The News Agency of Nigeria correspondents, who visited some hotels in the state capital on Friday, report that hotel personnel were busy with  party officials, supporters, journalists, observers and other visitors registering for accommodation.

NAN checks  revealed that most of the hotels could not cope with the influx, with  many seeking  accommodation in suburbs of Ado-Ekiti such as Iyin-Ekiti, Afao-Ekiti, Igede-Ekiti and  Ikere-Ekiti.

At the Abba Hotel, the receptionist told NAN that the facility could only provide room for  one night as all guests were expected to check out by noon on Friday.

Also at the Soterial Hotel in the GRA of Ado-Ekiti, guests were directed to check out following an alleged order that all rooms had been paid for.

The Manager of Ajibade Garden and Hotel, Mr Bamidele Adebayo, told NAN that the few rooms at the facility had been booked.

“We are overstretched by the quantum of visitors seeking accommodation in our hotel,  unfortunately we could not accommodate all of them.

“We have no option than to turn back some visitors as there is no more room for them.

“I believe many have gone to nearby towns for accommodation,” he said.

NAN reports that many visitors, including journalists and observers, were still battling to secure accommodation for the period of the election.

NAN reports that other hotels where politicians and other stake holders jostled for accommodation include Pathfinder, Prosperous, Midas, Anisulowo,Alex, Blis Titand and  Dave.

Operators of eateries, restaurants and other leisure outlets in the metropolis were not left out as they also expressed delight over the boost in business.