OSV Urges Ekiti APC Members to Close Ranks Ahead of 2026 Poll

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By Ojo Ayodeji

A leading grassroots mobilisation group in Ekiti State, Oyebanji Street Vanguard (OSV), has called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to close ranks and sustain the prevailing unity within the party following the peaceful emergence of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji as the APC consensus candidate for the 2026 governorship election.

The group described the outcome of the delegates’ congress as a demonstration of internal democracy, maturity, and the progressive spirit that has continued to define the ruling party in the state.

In a statement signed by its Convener, HC Ade, after a strategic review meeting held in Ado-Ekiti, the Oyebanji Street Vanguard commended the governor for his humility, large-heartedness, and commitment to inclusive governance.

The statement noted that Governor Oyebanji’s decision to accept the people’s call to serve for another term, and his subsequent appeal for reconciliation among all aspirants, reflected uncommon leadership and genuine love for Ekiti people.

“The emergence of Governor Oyebanji as the APC consensus candidate is not only a victory for the party but also a triumph for peace, discipline, and unity of purpose. We commend the governor for leading by example and for extending hands of fellowship to all his co-contestants,” the statement read in part.

The group also lauded the APC leadership at the national and state levels for conducting a transparent and rancour-free delegates’ congress across the 177 wards on October 25, 2025.

According to the OSV, the exercise, which was monitored by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), journalists, civil society organisations (CSOs), and security agencies, reflected the growing maturity of the political process in Ekiti State.

The group praised the cooperation of all stakeholders, particularly the aspirants who placed the interest of the state and the party above personal ambitions, adding that their maturity had further deepened the democratic culture in Ekiti.

“The governor’s peaceful disposition and the inclusive approach of the party have once again proved that Ekiti APC remains the model for others across the federation. Together we are stronger, and divided we are weaker,” the OSV said.

While expressing optimism about the 2026 governorship election, the group urged APC members and supporters to intensify grassroots mobilisation and carry the present spirit of unity into the electioneering period.

“We must sustain the current atmosphere of peace and cooperation as we prepare for the 2026 governorship election and the 2027 general elections. The progressive family must remain one to consolidate on the achievements of the Oyebanji-led administration,” the statement added.

The Oyebanji Street Vanguard further reaffirmed its commitment to promoting good governance and continuity of development in Ekiti State, saying that Governor Oyebanji’s administration had demonstrated strong focus on infrastructure, human capital development, and community inclusion.

It appealed to all residents of the state to continue supporting the present administration and the APC-led government, assuring that sustained peace and collective effort would strengthen democracy and advance socio-economic growth.

“We, the members of Oyebanji Street Vanguard, remain steadfast in our belief that continuity under Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is the surest path to building a prosperous and united Ekiti State,” the group declared.