Ekiti Election: NYCN Chairman Amb. Segun Bankole Urges Youth to Champion Peace and Unity

THERE IS A TIME FOR EVERYTHING UNDER THE EARTH

"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven." — Ecclesiastes 3:1

Tomorrow, the people of Ekiti State will once again participate in one of the most important pillars of democracy—the right to vote and determine the future direction of our dear state.

As Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ekiti State Chapter, I wish to appreciate all Ekiti youths, both at home and in the diaspora, for their commitment to the democratic process and their unwavering love for our state.

I am particularly grateful to the thousands of Ekiti sons and daughters who have travelled from different parts of Nigeria and across the world to return home and participate in this important civic responsibility. Your sacrifice, patriotism, and dedication to the progress of our dear state demonstrate that the future of Ekiti remains a collective responsibility.

The enthusiasm, awareness, and active participation displayed by our youths throughout this electoral period have been commendable. It is encouraging to see young people taking ownership of the democratic process and showing genuine interest in the development of their communities and the state at large.

As we approach election day, I urge every eligible voter to conduct themselves peacefully and responsibly. Let us remember that elections are temporary, but the peace, unity, and development of Ekiti State are permanent priorities that must be protected by all.

I call on all youths to reject violence, vote-buying, hate speech, misinformation, and any act capable of disrupting the peaceful conduct of the election. Let us instead demonstrate the values of integrity, tolerance, and mutual respect for which Ekiti people are known.

Regardless of political affiliation, we must remain brothers and sisters before, during, and after the election. Our collective desire should be a peaceful, credible, free, and fair electoral process that reflects the will of the people.

As young people, we have a duty not only to vote but also to serve as ambassadors of peace in our various communities and polling units. Let us be vigilant, law-abiding, and respectful of constituted authorities throughout the electoral process.

The future of Ekiti is bigger than any individual, group, or political interest. Therefore, let us continue to work together in the spirit of unity, progress, and development for the benefit of present and future generations.

May tomorrow's election be peaceful, credible, and successful.

May God bless Ekiti State.

May God bless the youths of Ekiti State.

May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Amb. Segun Bankole

Chairman, National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN)Ekiti State Chapter

Arewa Community in Ekiti Endorses Oyebanji, Tinubu for Second Term

**Arewa Community in Ekiti Endorses Oyebanji, Tinubu for Second Term**

The Arewa Community in Ekiti State has declared its support for the re election of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, citing what it described as his inclusive leadership and commitment to the welfare of both indigenes and non indigenes resident in the state.

The endorsement was made during an interactive session organised by the Governor of Kaduna State and National Chairman of the APC Campaign Council for the Ekiti Governorship Election, Senator Uba Sani.

Government House Reporter, Yemi Olajutemu, reports that Senator Uba Sani, who was represented by the Kaduna State APC Chairman, Mr Atiku Sankey, commended Governor Oyebanji for promoting unity and ensuring that residents, irrespective of their ethnic background, enjoy equal opportunities and protection.

He said the governor had consistently demonstrated fairness and inclusiveness through policies that recognise the contributions of northern residents to the development of the state.

Mr Sankey cited the allocation of land for the Hausa Market in Ado Ekiti, the appointment of northern residents into political offices and their employment in the state public service as practical examples of Governor Oyebanji's people centred leadership.

He urged members of the Hausa Community and other ethnic nationalities of northern extraction resident in Ekiti State to reciprocate the governor's goodwill by voting massively for his re election.

Also speaking, prominent northern political leaders, including Senator Binta Garba, Mrs Yetunde Adeniji and Senator Yerima, and the Special Assistant to the Governor on Hausa Matters Mr Hussein Bawa appealed to members of the Arewa Community across the state to come out in large numbers and support Governor Oyebanji at the governorship election.

Leaders of various northern ethnic groups also shared testimonies on the impact of the governor's administration, describing him as a leader who has improved the welfare of non indigenes and created an atmosphere of peaceful coexistence in the state.

They said the administration had given every resident a sense of belonging, regardless of ethnic or religious affiliation, and pledged the community's continued support for his government.

The gathering concluded with a unanimous endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji for second terms in office, with members expressing confidence in their leadership and commitment to national and state development.

ZENITH LABOUR PARTY GOVERNORSHIP CANDIDATE STEPS DOWN FOR GOVERNOR OYEBANJI

ZENITH LABOUR PARTY GOVERNORSHIP CANDIDATE STEPS DOWN FOR GOVERNOR OYEBANJI       

Governorship Candidate of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), Adetunji Victor Damilola, has stepped down for Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC).   

Shortly after making public his decision to step down for the Governor, the Zenith Labour Party’s candidate visited Governor Oyebajji , accompanied by the state Vice chairman of the party, Ayo Ipinlaye and Secretary, Aladeyelu Sehinde Damilola.    

He was received by Governor Oyebanji in company with the visiting Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas.  

The ZLP candidate cited Governor Oyebanji’s impactful governance and commitment to excellence as reason for stepping down for the incumbent governor.

The Candidate of the Allied People’s Movement (APM), Joseph Anifowose, had last month stepped down for Governor Oyebanji while the State working committee of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) last week announced their decision to work for the reelection of Governor Oyebanji, urging all its members to vote enmasse for the Governor.

Ekiti APC primary dispute: Appeal Court affirms Oyebanji's candidacy

Ekiti APC primary dispute: Appeal Court affirms Oyebanji's candidacy 

Dismisses Olawumi's Appeal for being incompetent 

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has affirmed the candidacy of Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State in the forthcoming governorship election as it dismissed the appeal by a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mrs. Abimbola Olawumi who challenged the outcome of the party's primary.

In a unanimous judgment on Thursday, a three-member panel of the appellate court, led by Justice Adebukola Banjoko, held that the appeal filed by Mrs. Olawumi was incompetent.

The Court of Appeal found that the appellant's brief of argument was filed in contravention of the court's rules, having exceeded the numbers allowed and proceeded to hold that the appeal was unsupported by any arguments and therefore incompetent.

Justice Banjoko, who read the lead judgment, allowed the objection raised by the respondents - the APC, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Governor Oyebanji to the competence of the appellant's brief of argument, filed on April 30.

The judge held that Mrs. Olawumi's brief violated Paragraph 14(a) of the Electoral Proceedings Practice Direction 2023.

She held that the brief, having been filed in violation of the court's rules, is incompetent and liable to be struck out.

Justice Banjoko further held that with the appellant'a brief struck out, the appeal becomes unsupported with any arguments, making it incompetent as well and liable to be dismissed.

She rejected the appellant's request that the court invokes its power under Section 15 of the Court of Appeal Act to activate its trial jurisdiction to hear the case on the merit on the grounds that the substance of the case revolves around the the internal screening and eligibility process of the party.

Justice Banjoko held that Mrs. Olawumi's case would have also failed even if her brief was not incompetent because issues in dispute are internal affairs of the political party and the suit statute barred, having been filed out of time as found by the trial court.

She dismissed the appeal and upheld part of the judgment of the Federal High Court, Abuja which earlier held among others, that the suit was filed out of time, that issues raised were not justiciable and that Oyebanji was duly nominated to contest the June 20 governorship election as the candidate of the APC.

The Court of Appeal allowed the cross-appeal filed by Governor Oyebanji to challenge part of the judgment of the Federal High Court delivered by Justice Peter Lifu.

Justice Oyebiola Oyewumi, who read the lead judgment, held among others, that the trial judge was in error when he found that the first cross respondent (Mrs. Olawumi) was an aspirant.

She resolved the sole issue identified for determination against the Mrs. Olawumi and set aside the finding by the trial judge that she is an aspirant within the contemplation of the constitution and electoral act 2022.

#EkitiDecides2026: SA on Hausa Matters, Bawa Husseini rallies Ekiti Hausa Community for Oyebanji’s Re-election

#EkitiDecides2026: SA on Hausa Matters, Bawa Husseini rallies Ekiti Hausa Community for Oyebanji’s Re-election

 Ahead of Saturday's highly anticipated governorship election in Ekiti State, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Hausa Matters, Hon. Hussein Isiaka Bawa, has taken the re-election campaign of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) to the grassroots of the Hausa community across major markets and hubs in the state capital.

In a series of strategic mobilization meetings held on Wednesday, Hon. Husseini engaged community members and traders at key locations, including Oja Oba, Shasha BAO Market (Agric Olope), Shasha Market (Fagbohun), and Sabo Lekeleke.

Addressing the large gatherings, the Special Assistant urged the Hausa population in Ekiti to turn out in large numbers to cast their votes for Governor Oyebanji, emphasizing that the current administration has demonstrated an unprecedented level of inclusivity and fairness to non-indigenous communities.

 "Governor Biodun Oyebanji has proven himself to be a leader for all residents of Ekiti State, regardless of ethnic background," Husseini stated. "His administration has consistently carried the Hausa community along in governance, policy-making, and welfare."

Husseini further assured the community that a second term for the incumbent governor would guarantee even greater economic opportunities, empowerment programs, and structural representation for the Hausa population within the coming administration.

The community leaders and traders at the various markets expressed their appreciation for the Governor’s continuous support and promised a robust turnout at the polls on June 20 to secure BAO’s continuity in office.

Eso-Obe LCDA Chairman Ayeni Empowers 200 Constituents with Business Tools, Backs Gov Oyebanji’s Re-election Campaign

Eso-Obe LCDA Chairman Ayeni Empowers 200 Constituents with Business Tools, Backs Gov Oyebanji’s Re-election Campaign

In a major boost to local economic development and grassroots political mobilization, the Executive Chairman of Eso-Obe Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Moses Ayeni Bankole, has empowered 250 constituents with vital business assets and financial support. The massive empowerment program, held at the LCDA Secretariat, was designed to support the re-election campaign of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, by directly complementing the state government’s community-focused initiatives.

The event, which drew a large crowd of community leaders and beneficiaries, was attended by top traditional figures. The Olukoro of Ikoro-Ekiti, Oba Dr. Olarewaju Adebanji Adeleye, was represented by his wife, Eyesorun Veronica Iyabo Adeleye. Speaking on behalf of the Kabiesi, Eyesorun Adeleye commended the LCDA Chairman and the state government for their relentless efforts in uplifting the people. She declared that the entire Ikoro community has unanimously resolved to vote overwhelmingly for Governor Oyebanji in the upcoming Saturday election to ensure a victory by a massive margin, while appealing to the state government to sustain its developmental strides in the next dispensation.

A wide array of items was distributed to over 50 artisans and farmers during the event, including generators, solar lights, sewing machines, hair clippers, hair dryers, grinding machines, and agricultural sprayers. Additionally, Hon. Ayeni announced financial support for 150 people, while his wife, Mrs. Ayeni Olayinka Adunni, supplemented the initiative by distributing food materials to aged women across the local council area. A key highlight of the intervention is the "Operation Light the Farmstead" initiative, which will see solar electrification panels installed across various farm settlements in the Eso-Obe axis to boost agricultural productivity and security.

According to Hon. Ayeni, who is also the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Ijero Constituency House of Assembly in the 2027 election, the gesture is aimed at giving back to the community, boosting local businesses, and appreciating farmers and Artisans for their unwavering support. He noted that this marks his fourth major intervention, having previously organized "Back to School" empowerment programs for primary and secondary school students. Echoing this sentiment, the Secretary of the LCDA, Hon. Aremu Olaitan, stated that the local government is committed to making life more meaningful for the populace and complementing the Governor’s overarching vision for Ekiti State.

Beneficiaries at the event expressed profound gratitude and optimism ahead of the weekend polls. Mr. Ojo Temitope, an aluminum fabricator who received a generator, noted that the equipment would significantly enhance his productivity and affirmed his readiness to support the government. Similarly, hairdressers Mrs. Alade Adeola and Mrs. Ajewole Bola Mary expressed immense joy, stating that the new hair dryers and tools would instantly elevate their businesses. With enthusiasm running high, Hon. Ayeni assured that the upcoming Saturday election would deliver a resounding victory for Governor Oyebanji, describing the empowerment as definitive proof of a people-oriented administration.

Oyebanji Came Well Prepared for Leadership, He Deserves Another Term, Tinubu Tells Ekiti Voters

Oyebanji Came Well Prepared for Leadership, He Deserves Another Term, Tinubu Tells Ekiti Voters

...As 18 Govs, 24 senators, Others Storm Ekiti for Oyebanji

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji for having successfully demonstrated to Ekiti people that he came solidly prepared for leadership that benefits the citizens through his excellent performance, appealing to Ekiti voters to re-elect him in the June 20 governorship poll.

Tinubu spoke in Ado- Ekiti at the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s mega rally staged in support of Governor Oyebanji’s re-election held at the Ekitiparapo pavilion in Ado Ekiti, the Ekiti State Capital, on Tuesday.

The 12,000 capacity Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, venue of the rally was filled to the brim, as party faithful and political allies from other political parties, stormed the arena to show solidarity with Governor Oyebanji, whose second term ambition has garnered solid backing among political, religious and ethnic divides.

President Tinubu, represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, applauded Ekiti citizens for standing firmly by the party through its political trajectory, pointing out that Ekiti is blessed and fortunate to have a leader like Oyebanji at this auspicious time.

The President stated that the Governor has exhibited through actions and policy formulations as well as execution that leadership is truly about the people and not to oppress the poor or subvert their rights.

"Governor Oyebanji is a man who understands the nitty gritty of leadership. He believes you have to be in good accord with the farmers, traders, students and even the downtrodden as a leader. He has carried himself with humility and lead with patience. He came prepared for governance. He came as a. Governor and gave respect to leaders and traditional rulers. I am happy that He has kept machinery of governance focused on the people.

 

"I came to Ekiti recently to commission some projects, I saw one of the longest flyovers in the country in Ekiti, which attested to the fact that he had served you well. His being in good terms with all the oast governors and political leaders showed how beneficial his leadership has been.

"I have gone round, I didn't see the posters of any opposition standing. This attested to his acceptability and inclusivity spirit. On Saturday, go out and reelect this humble and peaceful man to further serve you better".

In a symbolic fashion, suggesting that the victory was already at sight, Tinubu at the occasion handed over Oyebanji to all the past governors and first ladies and tasked them to work assiduously and deliver victory for him in the election.

 

In his contribution, the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, described Oyebanji as a peaceful, humble and gender friendly governor, adding that his performance has resonated across every corner of the country, adding that his unification spirit and ingenuity surpassed that of his peers. 

"I know you are all happy with your governor. Governor Oyebanji is trustworthy, he is a good performer and gender friendly. The market women, traders, traditional rulers, students have all said so. He is the most parliamentary friendly governor in Nigeria. On Saturday, don't sit back at home. Go out and vote for him and by next year, you go out again and vote for President Tinubu. May God reward you as you vote for him and honour our party".

The Chairman of the APC National Campaign Council and Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, was upbeat that victory is sure in the poll, describing Oyebanji's popularity as electrifying and command high regards among Ekiti citizens.

Sani said the governor surpassed every other governor that had superintended over the state in the area of education, workers' welfare, transportation, human capital development, and road construction, urging the people to raise the bar of votes for him in this election for the dividends of democracy to continue unabated.

Also, the Chairman of the APC Governor Forum/Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, said all the governors on the platform of the party are solidarising with Oyebanji, saying the organic support he is getting across the strata of the state attested to his acceptability.

 

"In this election, only the APC is visible. It is the only party that has campaigned market to market and house to house. No other party does this and they shouldn't blame anybody if they fail in this election. I have seen many things that attested to his popularity and performance. For the first time we are seeing a flyover that is more than a kilometre. Please, go out and campaign for him". He added.

Exuding confidence that victory is sure for APC, the National Chairman of the party, Prof Yilwadta, said the party is winning not on the basis of APC being the ruling party, but on the pedestal of the governor's robust connection to the populace.

"Governor Oyebanji, you have done well. You constructed road, take a bow and take your votes. You gave out scholarship, take a bow and take your votes. You have built hospitals and other monumental projects, take a bow and take your votes. On Saturday, you will only wake up , take your bow and take yours votes. All your people are speaking and defending you. You are winning this election".

 

The visibly elated Governor Oyebanji, flanked by his Wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji and his Deputy, Monisade Afuye, said he wasn't banking on the federal might to triumph in the poll, but on his superlative performance and for keeping fidelity with electioneering promises and social contract he signed with Ekiti people in 2022. 

Oyebanji urged the populace to be peaceful on election day, stressing that he has done marvelously well in his service to the state and deserves reelection. He assured the people that his second term will be more remarkable than what he has done in three and half years.

A former Governor of the State and leader of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Ayodele Fayose, while speaking as an opposition leader at the rally, said he decided to back Governor Oyebanji because of his unification spirit, lauding his political ingenuity in being able to unite all warring political heavyweights in the state.

Fayose urged Oyebanji to continue to be magnanimous in victory and keep uniting Ekiti people as he has always done being. He said the Governor will attain a new record on Saturday as the first Governor of the State to win a re-election back to back.

 

Other high profile dignitaries at the event were: Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, APC National Chairman , Prof Nentawe Yilwadta, Governor of Edo state, Senator Monday Okpebholo; Kogi, Usman Ododo; Ogun, Dapo Abiodun; Imo, Hope Uzodima; Borno, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum; Nasarawa, Engineer Abdullahi Sule; Yobe, Hon. (Dr.) Mai Mala Buni; Bayelsa, Governor Duoye Diri; Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Lagos, Babajide Sanwoolu.

 

The list included: Former governor of Osun state, Gboyega Oyetola, Former governor Niyi Adebayo, former Governor Kayode Fayemi, ex-Governor Segun Oni, former Governor or Ayodele Fayose, former Ekiti First Lady, Erelu Bisi Fayemi, Senator Dayo Adeyeye, National Secretary of APC. Senator Bashiru Ajibola, Senator representing Ogun West, Olamilekan Adeola, Senate leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, Minister of Solid minerals, Mr Dele Alake; Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, among others.

VP Shettima arrives Ado- Ekiti for APC mega rally

VP Shettima arrives Ado- Ekiti for APC mega rally 

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima arrived Ado Ekiti Airport, an hour ago to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the APC mega rally holding at the Ekiti parapo pavilion.

The Vice President touched down at the airport in a Nigeria Air Force aircraft with registration number 5N-FGW at exactly 12.41pm.

He was received by Gov. Biodun Oyebanji, who is also the flag bearer of the party in Saturday's governorship election, his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye as well APC governors across many states and top echelon of the APC. 

Immediately after the airport formalities, Senator Shettima left the airport in a motorcade to the palace of the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Dr Adeyemo Adejugbe to pay a courtesy visit to the frontline traditional rulers. 

Senator Shettima is also expected to hold a parley with Ekiti traditional rulers in the state at the Lady Jibowu hall, Government House before proceeding to the pavilion for the rally.

Other Eminent personalities who received the Vice President include the national chairman of APC Prof Nentawe Yikwatda, Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, the chairman of the campaign council and the governor of Kaduna state, Senator UBA Sanni, state Governors, other members of the campaign council and National Assembly members.

The visit marks VP Shettima’s second visit to Ekiti State within one week. The Vice President was in the state last week to turn the sod for the Ekiti Knowledge Zone (EKZ) and commission the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu Flyover, one of the legacy projects of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

Ekiti LG Workers reaffirm plan to mobilize 200,000 votes for Gov. Oyebanji

Ekiti LG Workers reaffirm plan to mobilize 200,000 votes for Gov. Oyebanji

Ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti state, workers in Ekiti local government service have reassured Governor Biodun Oyebanji of their support in the forthcoming election to deliver no fewer than 200,000 votes at the poll.

The workers under the aegis of Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) reststed their position at the grand finale of Ekiti state Local Government mega rally in support of the re-election of the governor in Ado- Ekiti on Monday. They vowed to mobilize themselves and members of their households to vote massively for the governor’s re- election.

The President of NULGE in Ekiti state, Mr Oluseyi Olatunde, who spoke on behalf of the local government workers commended the governor for delivering the needed change which has repositioned local government administration in the state by ensuring conducive working environment for them.

The NULGE President also stressed that the single act of the governor has restored pride and efficiency to the body responsible for managing the career of thousands of local government workers by strengthening their leadership and career progression. 

The NULGE president also maintained that the appointment of six staff of local government as Permanent Secretary and others as Executive Secretary positions has opened the frontiers of leadership and new hope for members demonstrating that competence and dedication would always be rewarded by his administration. 

In his response, Governor Oyebanji thanked the entire local government staff from the 16 local government areas for reaffirming their commitment to his administration as well as their determination to ensure the return of his government for a second term in office. 

Governor Oyebanji, who accepted the offer of the grand patron of NULGE in Ekiti state, said he believes strongly that the state is lucky with the quality of the staff at the local government level judging from the level of development that is taking place in all the local governments as he promised to continue to provide necessary impetus for them to thrive in the discharge of their duties.

“You know one thing is that whatever might have been our achievements in the last three years and seven months, you know you can do more because the problem we have solved in the local government during our first term, we are not coming back to those problems in our second term, we will do more.

“Let me, on behalf of myself, my darling wife, and the government that we are leading, express my profound appreciation to NULGE, from day one that you made up your mind that you are going to support us, you have never wavered. I'm extremely grateful to you, and it's not that we have done everything for you, but you see the sincerity in our hearts, you see how committed we are to serving our people, and you are ready to make adjustments. 

“You know, I'm extremely grateful to you. I listened to the NULGE president very well, and he said something that is my summary of why we are here today, he said, local government workers are ready to deliver on Saturday, that is my takeaway and I know that, as he have said it, everyone has heard, and so shall you be.

“Let me say this, everything we have achieved in the last close to four years, after God almighty, the glory goes to Mr President who has provided the enabling environment and the resources for all the sub-nationals.” He added 

The National President of NULGE, Comrade Aliyu Haruna Kankara described Governor Oyebanji as a visionary leader who was well prepared for the leadership position he found himself.

The National President, who was represented by the Vice President (Southwest) Comrade Rufus Babalola said he was happy to identify with the Governor’s unprecedented achievements within a spate of less than four years traversing all sectors and most especially in local government service.

He also commended him for his commitment to the development of local government systems and prioritizing the welfare of the workers.

Also present at the rally were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Chairman, Local Government Service Commission, Chief Alaba Bejide, ALGON Chairman, Chief Oluwasegun Ojo, NLC Chairman, Comrade Kolapo Olusola and array of local government leadership and staff.

HOW TINUBU MADE GOVERNANCE EASIER FOR ME- OYEBANJI

HOW TINUBU MADE GOVERNANCE EASIER FOR ME- OYEBANJI

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji at the weekend said he owes President Bola Tinubu a debt of gratitude for making governance easier for him, as well as other governors. 

Speaking in Ado- Ekiti at an interactive session with journalists, Oyebanji narrated how his administration had struggled for almost six months to attend to the State's wage bill and capital projects until the emergence of Tinubu as president.

The Governor stated that the various interventionist programmes of the President made more resources available to all States including Ekiti State; enabling his administration to implement its shared prosperity agenda with ease. 

At the interactive session which was attended by heads of media outfits in the state, and journalists across from the print, electronics and digital media, Oyebanji said the ongoing construction works on three of the federal roads linking the State have eased up pressure from citizens who have been calling on his government to fix the roads.

He said the cost of award of the recently approved concrete pavement on Ado-Itawure road is higher than the State's budget for 2023; noting that without the president's intervention on the road, there was no way the State could have embarked on its construction.

"I became Governor six months before the inauguration of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu as president. In those six months, I had sleepless nights thinking about how to meet the wage bill and also implement the shared prosperity agenda. We have completed the airport now. Our focus is on roads. Thanks to the President, Ado-Akure road is almost done. He has also awarded Ado-Itawure road. The value of that contract is bigger than our budget for two years. If not for the president that cares, there is no way we could have done those roads", he said.

The governor stated that the increased allocation from the Federal Government has enabled his administration to increase subvention to the State's tertiary institutions three times and meet the demands of the labour force, thereby fostering industrial harmony in the State.

Speaking further, Governor Oyebanji said his administration has paid over 85 Billion Naira in gratuities and pension since his administration came on board in 2022.

He asserted that the endorsement of his administration by Ekiti people has been largely as a result of the sterling performance of his administration which is being facilitated by Tinubu's presidency.

He also thanked the media in the state for being professional in the discharge of their duties/ enlightening the public and holding the government accountable when necessary. 

While urging Ekiti people to support Tinubu's re-election, Oyebanji said the president is repositioning Nigeria on the path of greatness and should be given the benefits of the doubts.

"The president deserves commendations. It is not possible to make omelette without breaking eggs. The progress and stability that he has brought to the economy and everything, it takes someone who has courage and confidence to do it. He is trying to fix things that have gone wrong in the last 30 years. If someone is sick and you give him an injection, does he get well instantly? Mr President deserves our support and understanding. I have sat with him many times and I can see that he has clarity of intention and how to put the country on the right footing", Oyebanji said.

"I Didn’t Authorize Any Message" — FCT Minister Wike Denies Backing PDP’s Oluyede in Ekiti

The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has strongly denied authorizing any message of support for Dr. Wole Oluyede, the PDP governorship candidate in Ekiti State.

In a formal statement signed by his spokesperson, Lere Olayinka, the Minister clarified that he has absolutely no knowledge of the message read at the rally and remains entirely focused on his official duties as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

Minister Wike advised Dr. Oluyede to focus on his election campaign rather than dragging his name into Ekiti politics, particularly against Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, whose positive impact and good work in the state have been well noted.

The Minister's statement emphasized the importance of political structure and local leadership, questioning how a candidate expects outside support while remaining at odds with key party figures at home:

 "I don't know how you will be fighting your leader from your state, former Governor Ayo Fayose, who is also my friend, but you want me, someone who is not from Ekiti, to support you. It has never worked that way, and it won't work like that. If you want me to join your campaign, it is your state leader, Ayodele Fayose, who would invite me, not you. That is exactly why I boycotted yesterday's grand finale campaign."

JUNE 12: OYEBANJI URGES NIGERIANS TO KEEP FAITH IN DEMOCRACY

PRESE RELEASE 

JUNE 12: OYEBANJI URGES NIGERIANS TO KEEP FAITH IN DEMOCRACY 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has urged the people of the State and Nigerians in general to keep faith in democracy as a platform to deepen their participation in governance as patriotic citizens.

Governor Oyebanji said Democracy Day offers an opportunity for sober reflection on the journey so far and to deepen their resolve to sustain the ideals of democracy and commitment to a stronger state and a prosperous nation.

The Governor, in a statement marking Democracy Day which was signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, noted that June 12 marks a watershed in the nation's political history and chequered democratic journey. 

He said it is a day set aside to commemorate the 33rd anniversary of June 12, 1993 presidential election which has been widely regarded as the freest, fairest and the most peaceful national election in the history of Nigeria which was won by the business mogul, the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.

The Ekiti Governor paid tributes to the June 12 symbol, Chief Abiola; his wife, the late Alhaja Kudirat Abiola and other heroes and heroines of democracy who paid the supreme price for Nigerians to breathe the air of freedom from military dictatorship.

Governor Oyebanji also paid tributes to other pro-democracy patriots who fought for the revalidation of the June 12 and witnessed the dawn of democracy in 1999, notably the President , Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as one of the pillars that sustained the democratic struggles. 

He also hailed the nation's immediate past President, the late Muhammadu Buhari who gave official recognition to June 12 as Democracy Day in Nigeria.

Governor Oyebanji recalled that June 12 symbolised the people's readiness to set aside ethnic, religious, lingual and cultural differences to enthrone democracy in which their freedom of choice and sacredness of the ballot is respected irrespective of the odds.

While admitting that democracy may not be totally perfect, Governor Oyebanji maintained that it remains the best form of government and offers every citizen opportunities to contribute to decision making and have their say in the choice of their leaders.

Governor Oyebanji said every Nigerian has a role to play in strengthening the nation's democracy, adherence to constitutionalism, rule of law and building stronger institutions to make good governance to thrive to the beneift of the country and its people.

He congratulated Nigerians and the people of Ekiti State for witnessing this year's Democracy Day and 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule, the longest in the nation's political history..

EKITI 2026: Gov Oyebanji’s Special Adviser, Princess Adetoun Agboola, Empowers 50 Ijero Business Owners with POS, Cash Grants; Preaches Unity Ahead of June Polls

EKITI 2026: Gov Oyebanji’s Special Adviser, Princess Adetoun Agboola, Empowers 50 Ijero Business Owners with POS, Cash Grants; Preaches Unity Ahead of June Polls

In a strategic move to boost grassroots economy and solidify party presence ahead of the June 20 gubernatorial election, the Special Adviser to the Ekiti State Governor, Princess Adetoun Agboola, has empowered 50 small business owners and vulnerable residents in Ward A, Ijero Local Government Area.

The empowerment program, which featured the distribution of Point of Sale (POS) machines, startup capital, and direct cash grants, was heavily anchored on a message of absolute party unity and total mobilization for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s (BAO) re-election bid.

Breaking down the intervention, Princess Agboola presented POS machines paired with operational cash backing to 22 beneficiaries from Ward A to launch them into the financial services sector. Additionally, another 28 residents received direct cash grants to scale up their existing micro-businesses.

Recognizing the diversity of the community, the Governor's aide extended her hand of fellowship beyond party lines by distributing high-quality clothing materials to non-APC members within the ward. In a further show of structured support, organized groups present at the venue, including the female youth wing, male youth wing, and community elders, were supported with 50,000 Naira respectively to foster communal development.

Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Princess Agboola reminded party faithful of the benevolence of the current administration, noting that Ijero Local Government has been uniquely blessed with numerous high-profile appointments spanning from the State Executive Council down to critical boards and commissions. She emphasized that the greatest reward the community could offer the Governor is a unified front and an overwhelming turnout at the polls.

 "Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has consistently been a symbol of peace and a united front for our great party. He preaches unity everywhere he goes, and we in Ward A must fully emulate this. We must remain indivisible as we approach the June 20 election," Princess Agboola charged the constituents.

She urged the electorate to come out en masse to deliver an undeniable, landslide victory for the Governor, stating: "We want Ward A to proudly stand tall when the final results are announced, knowing we contributed robustly to the over 500,000 votes targeted for BAO’s historic victory."

The event drew praise from top political stakeholders in the region, who described Princess Agboola's consistent philanthropy as an inherent reflection of her royal heritage and unwavering loyalty to the Governor’s agenda. The APC Chairman for Ekiti Central Senatorial District, Hon. Jekoyemi Raphael Bankole, expressed his profound satisfaction with the Special Adviser’s performance as an exemplary representative of Ijero in the state executive cabinet.

"When the Governor appoints you, the question is: what have you done positively to impact lives? It is only when you have impacted your people that you can confidently return to ask them to vote for your principal. This is exactly what Princess Adetoun is doing," Hon. Bankole remarked.

He lauded her humility, her selflessness in reaching out to non-politicians and religious bodies across Ijero town, and her stellar efforts in facilitating employment opportunities for Ijero indigenes at the state level. He further appealed to those who did not benefit from the current batch to remain patient, reassuring them that subsequent phases would capture more residents.

In their separate remarks, Hon. Kole Ogunleye, Chairman of Ward A, Ijero, applauded the Princess for her relentless grassroots interventions, affirming that this gesture was merely a continuation of her long-standing history of reaching out to the vulnerable to project the good works of Governor Oyebanji.

The Vice Chairman of Ijero Local Government Hon. Bose Jalo described the massive empowerment as a testament to Princess Adetoun's noble upbringing, expressing ultimate confidence that her generosity would remain sustainable. In the same vein, Hon. Adeola Adeyemo, Former Chairman of Ijero LG, testified to how the Special Adviser has strategically used her office to uplift the entire Ijero Local Government beyond her immediate ward, noting that she possesses the capacity to excel remarkably if entrusted with even higher responsibilities in the future.

The event concluded with a strong renewal of commitment from community leaders, artisans, and youth groups, who pledged their unalloyed support and votes to ensure the continuity of the Oyebanji administration come June 20.