How stakeholders rally behind Oyebanji ahead of 2026 Ekiti governorship election

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By OSV

A growing number of political leaders and elder statesmen across Ekiti State and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have continued to throw their weight behind Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s re-election bid ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

The endorsements, described as the “loud voice of wisdom from the elders,” highlight the governor’s inclusive style of leadership, humility, and impressive performance across critical sectors including infrastructure, education, agriculture, and human capital development.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was among the first to commend Oyebanji’s administration, praising his “clear vision, prudent management, and commitment to shared prosperity” during his visit to the state on August 13, 2025.

Vice President Kashim Shettima also lauded Oyebanji for uniting the political class in Ekiti, describing him as a “humble and accessible leader who has carried everyone along.”

Former Governor and Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, speaking on July 28, 2025, said all former governors in the state had united in support of Oyebanji’s second term bid.

“For the first time, all former governors of Ekiti are standing together to endorse our governor. He has worked hard and deserves continuity,” Adebayo said.

Elder statesman and education icon, Aare Afe Babalola (CON), also described Oyebanji as “a worthy Ekiti son who upholds the vision of the state’s founding fathers.”

APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, said on October 25, 2025, that there was “effectively no vacancy in the Ekiti Government House,” while Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended Oyebanji’s performance and loyalty to the party.

“Whoever contests against Oyebanji is embarking on a fruitless race. He is a God-fearing and humble governor who deserves our full support,” Akpabio said.

Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, and Senate Leader, Senator Michael Opeyemi Bamidele, also joined the chorus of praise, describing Oyebanji as “a visionary leader whose performance has transformed the state.”

Similarly, Senators Yemi Adaramodu and Cyril Fasuyi, who represent Ekiti in the National Assembly, expressed confidence in Oyebanji’s leadership and moved for his formal endorsement as the APC candidate for 2026.

“A good turn deserves another. We have felt his impact across all parts of Ekiti North,” Fasuyi said.

Other leaders, including former Governors Kayode Fayemi, Segun Oni, and Modupe Adelabu, as well as former First Lady Erelu Bisi Fayemi and Senator Biodun Olujimi, have also voiced support for Oyebanji’s continuity in office.

Legal luminary Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) described the governor as “a refined and gracious leader who epitomizes humility,” while tourism expert Dr. Shayo Olowookere hailed him for positioning Ekiti as “the new face of tourism in Nigeria.”

Governor Oyebanji, in his recent remarks, reiterated his commitment to peace and inclusive development, stressing that leadership should be about “building bridges and fostering unity for progress.”

The endorsements are seen within APC circles as a strong indication of the party’s readiness to retain power in Ekiti through a united front built on performance, continuity, and shared prosperity.

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