OYEBANJI, DEPUTY RECEIVE CERTIFICATE OF RETURN FROM INEC

OYEBANJI, DEPUTY RECEIVE CERTIFICATE OF RETURN FROM INEC

…Re- elected Gov Promises Greater Service to Ekiti People

Ekiti State Governor and candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in last Saturday’s governorship election, Biodun Oyebanji, on Tuesday received his Certificate of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), pledging to deepen good governance and accelerate sustainable development across the State.

The National Commissioner in charge of Oyo, Ekiti and Lagos States, Mr Sam Olumekun, presented the certificate to Governor Oyebanji at a brief ceremony held at the INEC State Office in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital. His running mate and incumbent Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, also received her certificate at the event.

Governor Oyebanji, won the June 20 governorship election with a total of 319,224 votes, becoming the first governor in Ekiti State’s history to secure two consecutive electoral mandates. A large crowd of supporters thronged the INEC office complex and adjoining streets to witness the historic event.

Speaking shortly after receiving the certificate, Governor Oyebanji, accompanied by his wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, expressed profound appreciation to the people of Ekiti State for renewing his mandate. He described the outcome of the election as a strong vote of confidence in his administration.

The Governor stated that his second term would focus on consolidating existing achievements while implementing policies aimed at improving citizens’ welfare, stimulating economic growth, and strengthening infrastructure across the State.

He commended INEC, security agencies, and electoral officials for their professionalism and commitment to delivering a peaceful, free, and credible election, noting significant improvements following amendments to the Electoral Act.

Governor Oyebanji also lauded the people of Ekiti State for their peaceful conduct before, during, and after the election, emphasizing that the victory belongs to all residents of the State. He called on other contestants to join hands with his administration in advancing the development of Ekiti.

“Let me first appreciate God for His faithfulness; today would not have been possible without Him. After God, I must acknowledge the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly for his courage in signing the new Electoral Act into law.

“This election is the first to be conducted under the amended Electoral Act, and the improvement in INEC’s performance is evident. The Commission deserves commendation for its professionalism, fairness, and transparency.

“I also commend the security agencies and the good people of Ekiti for ensuring a peaceful process. As a State just 29 years old, this stands as one of our most peaceful elections, reflecting the positive reforms shaping our political culture,” the Governor said.

Earlier in his remarks, the National Commissioner, Mr. Olumekun, praised the peaceful conduct of Ekiti residents, describing the election as a model of democratic practice. He also appreciated security agencies and stakeholders for their roles in the successful conduct of the poll and reaffirmed INEC’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy through credible and inclusive elections.

Similarly, the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ekiti State, Dr Bunmi Omoseyindemi, congratulated Governor Oyebanji on his victory, noting that the Certificate of Return symbolizes not just electoral success but also the trust and expectations placed on him by the people.

Dignitaries at the event included the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Adeoye Aribasoye; Senator representing Ekiti North and Director-General of the Campaign Council, Senator Cyril Fasuyi; APC State Chairman, Barrister Sola Elesin; Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habitat Adubiaro; Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi; Chief of Staff, Niyi Adebayo; members of the State Executive Council, members of the stete house of Assembly, and local government chairmen, among others.

HAUSA COMMUNITY CONGRATULATES GOV. OYEBANJI ON HISTORIC VICTORY, PLEDGES UNALLOYED SUPPORT

HAUSA COMMUNITY CONGRATULATES GOV. OYEBANJI ON HISTORIC VICTORY, PLEDGES UNALLOYED SUPPORT

The Hausa community in Ekiti State has extended its warmest congratulations to Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji following his historic victory at the polls, describing the triumph as well-deserved and a direct reflection of his inclusive governance. In a joint statement co-signed by the Chairman of the Hausa Community, Alhaji Adamu Liman, and the Sarkin Hausa of Ekiti, Abdulahi Yusuf, the community noted that the Governor’s victory came as no surprise given his track record of fostering unity and supporting non-indigenous tribes within the state.

According to the community leadership, the Hausa population in Ekiti had received clear directives ahead of the election to turn out en masse and vote for the progressive governor. The leaders stated that they were not expecting anything less because they actively instructed their people to march out and vote for a governor who has consistently been friendly, accessible, and supportive to them and other non-indigenous tribes in the state. Reaffirming their commitment to the current administration, the community pledged their unalloyed and continuous support to Governor Oyebanji, emphasizing that they stand by him firmly as he steers the affairs of Ekiti State to greater heights.

The community also used the medium to express profound gratitude to several high-profile northern governors who contributed significantly to the construction of the Hausa community Mosque at the Shasha Market in Fagbohun. The donations were made during strategic solidarity visits to the community on the eve of the election. Recognized for their immense contributions were Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, and Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State.

The leadership noted that this timely support, alongside the numerous interventions they have continuously enjoyed under Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, is something they will never take for granted. The statement concluded with a prayer for the leaders, asking that Almighty God continues to guide and be with them, and that Allah grants them sound health, wisdom, and the ultimate reward of Al-Jannah Firdaus for their generosity and leadership.

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI THANKS EKITI PEOPLE FOR POLL VICTORY, PEACEFUL CONDUCT

GOVERNOR OYEBANJI THANKS EKITI PEOPLE FOR POLL VICTORY, PEACEFUL CONDUCT 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed profound gratitude to the people of the state for their overwhelming support, which culminated in his re-election in the June 20 governorship poll.

Governor Oyebanji said he remains deeply appreciative of Ekitikete for standing united in giving him a renewed four-year mandate and for ensuring that the election was conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner across all the 16 local government areas of the state.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, the Governor said he is indebted to the people not only for the historic re-election but also for setting what he described as a benchmark for peaceful elections in the country.

The Governor noted that Saturday’s election was peaceful because of the exemplary conduct of the people before, during, and after the electioneering period, which lasted about three months. He added that commendation must go to leaders and stakeholders across all segments of society for their roles in sustaining peace.

Governor Oyebanji also invited the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, Dr Wole Oluyede and candidate of the African Democratic Party (ADP), Ambassador Dare Bejide, to join hands with him in the task of building a more prosperous Ekiti State. 

The Governor said in the statement, “ I owe all Ekiti sons and daughters, at home and in the diaspora, a debt of gratitude for their overwhelming support and for the fresh mandate to serve for another four years. This is truly humbling, and I do not take the trust for granted.

“Very importantly, I thank Ekitikete for their deliberate commitment to ensuring a peaceful election, devoid of violence or bloodshed, thereby setting a new standard for electoral conduct.

“Our profound appreciation goes to our traditional rulers for promoting peace in their domains, as well as to leaders of political parties and religious bodies for preaching and exemplifying peaceful coexistence.

“We also extend our sincere gratitude to former Governors of the state—Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Chief Ayodele Fayose, Engr. Segun Oni, and Dr. Kayode Fayemi—for their support for the administration and commitment to the unity and progress of Ekiti State.

“Special thanks to serving and former members of the National and State Assemblies, members of the State Executive Council, the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), and the Campaign Council led by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele.

“We commend the heads and personnel of all security agencies, including the Army, Police, DSS, and other paramilitary bodies, for their professionalism and for the effective inter- agency collaboration in ensuring peace before, during, and after the election.

“We are equally grateful to members of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), for their dedication and magnanimity in victory, as well as to leaders of labour unions, workers, teachers, local government employees, the media, youth and students’ bodies, artisans, market women, transport unions, and commercial motorcyclists.”

Governor Oyebanji also noted the significant improvement in the conduct of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing it as a marked advancement over previous exercises in the state. He attributed this to the dedication of INEC staff and the impact of the new Electoral Act signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The Governor reiterated his commitment to working harder and more efficiently to deliver greater dividends of democracy in his second term. He also expressed gratitude to God for the successes recorded by his administration over the past three years and eight months.

AFAN Congratulates Oyebanji on Historic Re-election

*AFAN Congratulates Oyebanji on Historic Re-election* 

The All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Ekiti State Chapter, has congratulated Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and his deputy, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Christianah Afuye, on their victory in the June 20 governorship election.

In a statement issued in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, the State Chairman of AFAN, Mr.Sunday Adekogbon described the Governor's re-election as a clear endorsement of his administration's developmental strides, particularly in the agricultural sector.

Oyebanji made history by becoming the first democratically elected governor in Ekiti State to secure a second term in office, winning in all sixteen local government areas and polling 319,224 votes as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

According to AFAN, the overwhelming support received by the Governor reflected the confidence reposed in him by farmers, rural dwellers, market women and other stakeholders who have benefitted from his administration's Agriculture for Food Security and Prosperity agenda.

The association commended the Governor's achievements in agriculture, including land development and input support programmes, youth engagement initiatives in agriculture, the establishment of the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport and his inclusive approach to governance.

AFAN further pledged its continued support for the administration's second-term agenda and expressed readiness to partner with the government in advancing mechanisation, irrigation, affordable agricultural credit, value-chain development and other initiatives aimed at boosting food production.

The association also prayed for wisdom, strength and good health for Governor Oyebanji as he continues to lead the state towards greater food security, economic prosperity and sustainable development.

"With Governor Oyebanji's re-election, Ekiti farmers can look forward to continuity, stability and greater opportunities for growth," the statement added.

#EkitiDecides2026: Reps Candidate Olarewaju Congratulates Oyebanji, Hails Re-elected Governor as ‘Jinx Breaker’

#EkitiDecides2026: Reps Candidate Olarewaju Congratulates Oyebanji, Hails Re-elected Governor as ‘Jinx Breaker’

 Following the landmark outcome of the gubernatorial election, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Ekiti North Constituency II (House of Representatives), Hon. Ibrahim Kunle Olarewaju, has warmly congratulated Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji on his historic and resounding re-election victory at the polls.

In an official statement, Olarewaju, a former presidential aide, described the Governor’s sweeping triumph across all 16 local government areas and 177 wards as a well-deserved validation of his people-centered, impactful governance over the last three and a half years.

Hon. Olarewaju particularly lauded Governor Oyebanji for breaking a major political jinx in Ekiti State. Since the state’s creation 30 years ago, no single democratically elected governor had successfully completed two straight four-year terms back-to-back under the same administration, a trend Olarewaju noted had previously hindered long-term infrastructural planning and continuity.

"By securing this second consecutive term, Governor Oyebanji has rewritten the political history of our state," Olarewaju remarked. "This record-breaking feat will not only sustain the socioeconomic progress recorded so far but will also heavily enhance the progressive values of the APC and maximize human capital development across the state."

Reacting to the final results declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), where Governor Oyebanji pulled a landslide **319,224 votes**, the House of Representatives hopeful noted that the figures represent the highest number of votes ever recorded by a winning gubernatorial candidate in the history of Ekiti State. According to him, this landslide victory serves as an undeniable testament to the Governor's soaring popularity and deep connection with the grassroots.

Olarewaju further extended his congratulations to the First Lady of the State, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, noting that her retention of the role for an uninterrupted eight-year stretch is a major win for grassroots welfare. He emphasized that this continuity would allow her office to expand on life-changing initiatives targeted at women, widows, orphans, people living with disabilities, and vulnerable children.

The former presidential aide also commended the national and state leadership of the All Progressives Congress. He recalled that the APC had already made history in the state when Governor Oyebanji successfully succeeded his predecessor, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, marking the first time a ruling party smoothly transitioned to its own successor in Ekiti. With this latest election, the party has broken yet another glass ceiling.

While thanking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and security agencies for ensuring a peaceful, smooth, and orderly democratic process, Olarewaju declared the general populace of the state as the true beneficiaries of the election.

"This unprecedented victory is not just for the Governor or the party; it is a victory for assured sustainability, policy consistency, and tangible development in Ekiti State.

The Ekiti of our collective dreams is now fully on track to becoming a reality with this second-term mandate secured in the bag," he concluded.

“I will work harder, smarter and serve you better”, Oyebanji tells Ekiti people

“I will work harder, smarter and serve you better”, Oyebanji tells Ekiti people

 

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Sunday thanked Ekiti people for re-electing him for a second term of office during Saturday’s governorship election in the state, promising to work harder and serve them better in his second term.

Governor Oyebanji also said his election is a validation and general acceptance of the economic policies and reforms of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration, which freed resources for sub-nationals to deliver on their promises to the electorates.

The Governor stated this on Sunday in his acceptance speech, at the Gvernment house, Ado-Ekiti, a few hours after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced him winner of the Ekiti Governorship election with a total 319,224 votes.

“There is no doubt that this is an unprecedented electoral outcome in the history of our State, and indeed Nigeria , You have spoken loudly and unequivocally and I have heard you clearly.

“We have heard your voice. We have accepted the challenge which this unity mandate has thrown upon us Your electoral preferment of us is truly humbling, and we do not take it for granted.

“I can only assure you that the best has just begun. We will rededicate ourselves even more strongly in implementing our shared prosperity agenda. We will work harder and smarter to serve you better”, he added.

Oyebanji, maintained that President Tinubu’s reforms which freed resources to sub-nationals provided the necessary platform for his government to attend to the yearnings of the citizens, adding that the increased federal allocations to states, empowered his government to fund key projects and social programmes which had greatly impacted the lives of the citizens.

The Governor used the opportunity to further commend President Tinubu for his foresight in assenting to the amended electoral law, which, according to him, has brought about a seamless outcome of the election, adding that the amended law is a direct improvement in the electoral climate and the legal framework previously known to the country.

 

Governor Oyebanji commended residents of the state for their renewed confidence in him as expressed through the fresh mandate given to him. He promised to rejig his efforts on the poverty alleviation programmes of his administration that will tend towards making lives better for the people irrespective of their status in the society.

The Governor disclosed that he has extended olive branch to the candidates of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Wole Oluyede and his African Democratic Congress (ADP) counterpart, Ambassador Dare Bejide by personally calling them and hope to visit them later to discuss on how they can join hands with him to move the state forward.

 

According to him, “a while ago, Mr. President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR called to congratulate me after the official announcement of the 2026 Ekiti Governorship election. I have also called the candidates of the People Democratic Party (PDP) Dr Wole Oluyede and African Democratic Congress (ADC) Ambassador Dare Bejide.”

The governor, who hailed the voters for his huge volume of votes totaling 319,224, winning in all the 177 wards and in almost all the 2,245 units, and in the 16 local government areas of the state, added “there's no doubt that this is an unprecedented electoral outcome in the history of our dear state and indeed Nigeria, for a party to have won in all the wards in a particular state, I’m not sure it has happened in the history of this country.

“It is not just a watershed, it is a remarkable shift in the political culture of Ekiti people, unlike the previous electoral cycles which were marked with disturbing violence and apprehensions, the election has come and gone without a single violent incident, with this, it has taken a new course and it's the dawn of a new era where consensus building, peace and harmony has become the trading currency of our political engagement.

“I want to specially thank the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR for his fatherly support. This victory is a validation of his administration and a vote of confidence in him by Ekiti people. I have no doubt that a better outcome will be replicated in the January 2027 Presidential election. I want to commend him for the foresight that has brought about better electoral practice and procedures through the amended electoral law.

 

The seamless outcome of this election is a direct result of the improvements in the electoral climate and the legal framework.

 

“I am grateful to my brother-governors across Nigeria, especially the Progressive Governors’ Forum under the leadership of the Governor of Imo State, Sen. Hope Uzodima, for their support and encouragements. He stated.

Fayemi Congratulates Gov Oyebanji On Re-election, Calls On Rivals, Ekiti People to Rally Round Governor

*Press Statement*

*Fayemi Congratulates Gov Oyebanji On Re-election, Calls On Rivals, Ekiti People to Rally Round Governor* 

Dr Kayode Fayemi, the immediate past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), has congratulated Governor Biodun Oyebanji on his re-election as Governor of Ekiti State, describing the victory as a clear endorsement of his administration’s performance by the people of the state.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the Fayemi Media Office, Fayemi said the outcome of Saturday’s governorship election, in which Governor Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) swept all sixteen Local Government Areas of the state, was a resounding vote of confidence that reflected the high regard in which Ekiti people hold his leadership.

“I join other well-meaning Ekiti citizens and friends of our dear state in congratulating Governor Biodun Oyebanji on his decisive re-election. This victory is a powerful statement by our people that they recognise and appreciate purposeful governance. 

‘’I commend the people of Ekiti for coming out, once again, to exercise their civic responsibility peacefully,” Fayemi said.

The former governor commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for the largely peaceful conduct of the election, and urged the governor not to relent in the task of consolidating the gains already recorded in his first term, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture and human capital development.

Fayemi also extended a hand of fellowship to the candidates who contested the election, including those of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other political parties, urging them to see the outcome of the election as the verdict of the people.

“Elections are contests, not wars. I urge the other candidates who contested this election to take the lessons from it in good faith and join hands with Governor Oyebanji in the task of building our state. 

‘’Ekiti is bigger than any one of us, and it is only by working together, across party lines, that we can give our people the development they deserve and which they have consistently asked for at the polls,” he stated.

He further called on all Ekiti people, irrespective of political affiliation, ethnic or religious leaning, to rally round Governor Oyebanji and support his administration in the new term, stressing that the unity and cooperation of the people remain indispensable to the state’s progress.

“Our state has always thrived when we set aside our political differences and worked together for the common good. I therefore call on all Ekiti sons and daughters, at home and in the diaspora, to continue to support Governor Oyebanji and his administration as he begins this new term, so that together we can sustain the legacy of good governance that our people have come to expect of Ekiti Kete,” Fayemi added.

Signed 

Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, 

Head, Fayemi Media Office, Abuja

June 21, 2026

Governor Oyebanji Votes in Ikogosi, Commends Process

Governor Oyebanji Votes in Ikogosi, Commends Process

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Saturday voted at his Ikogosi Ekiti country home, commending the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) for a well-organized process and the security agencies for a hitch-free election.

The Governor, who arrived at his Unit 003, Ward 6, Okelele Street, Ikogosi Ekiti at about 11:20 am in company of his Wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, cast his vote at about 11:30 after going through the variation process. 

It took the Governor and his wife less than 20 minutes to get accredited and cast their votes due to the effectiveness of the BVAS machine at the unit.

Addressing Journalists shortly after casting his vote, the Governor expressed satisfaction at the large turnout of Ekiti people across the state to exercise their franchise. 

He said reports from across the state indicated that the election was progressing smoothly in a peaceful atmosphere.

Governor Oyebanji said the peaceful atmosphere and the encouraging turnout is a reflection of the commitment of Ekiti people to democracy, adding that he is pleased with the level of participation witnessed so far.

While appealing to the electorates to be patient with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), acknowledging that minor operational glitches could occur during the process, the Governor said he is confident that the electoral body would promptly address any challenges and ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to cast their votes.

“The report across the State has been positive, the election is going on smoothly, people are exercising their franchise, they are happy, voters turn out is impressive and I am so happy and glad people listen to call that they must come out and exercise their franchise. So, far so good everything is going on well.

“Definitely, I am satisfied and I want to appeal to our people to be patient with INEC, for all processes there will be glitches, INEC has assured me and I believe them that all the minor glitches will be attended to.

The Governor said he is optimistic that that the Stete might record the target 500,000 votes if a good percentage of all registered voters come out to vote within the stipulated period.

Governor Oyebanji said: “If the processes continue as peacefully as it is and everybody votes, we should cross that line with what I am seeing here today”.

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.