EKITI STATE COUNCIL OF TRADITIONAL RULERS CONGRATULATES GOVERNOR ABIODUN OYEBANJI ON HIS REELECTION

PRESS RELEASE

 

 

EKITI STATE COUNCIL OF TRADITIONAL RULERS CONGRATULATES GOVERNOR ABIODUN OYEBANJI ON HIS REELECTION

 

The Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers held its Statutory meeting on the Tuesday, 30thh June 2026. During the meeting, Council considered among other things, matters of profound importance to Ekitiland.

 

Among the resolutions of the day, Council resolve:

 

I. To warmly congratulate the Governor of Ekiti State, Omoluabi Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji, on his reelection on the 20th June, 2026 for the second term in office as the Governor of Ekiti State.

 

II. Council commended his purposeful leadership, impressive achievements and his respectful disposition to the traditional institution.

 

III. Council noted the historical significance of his reelection as the first governor to break the jinx of second term succession, and urged him to continue to do his best for Ekiti people.

 

IV. Council pledged its solidarity, prayers and supports to the Governor at all times.

 

V. Council noted, with great satisfaction, the peaceful and orderly nature of the election which was without crises, chaos and cries of malpractices.

 

VI. Council noted that the election was first of its kind in the history of Ekitiland, where previous elections, since colonial era, had always been greeted with breakdown of law and order, and brutal destruction of lives and property among political opponents.

 

VII. Council commended all the contestants for their courage and spirit of sportsmanship, and urged them to work with the Governor for the overall progress of Ekiti State.

 

VIII. Council commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the security agencies, election observers, party leaders and other stakeholders for a job well done.

IX. Council prayed for the peace, progress and prosperity of Ekitiland.

 

 

 

 

Signed:

 

HM Oba Adejimi Adu Alagbado

 

Agirilala II,

 

Ogoga of Ikere-Kingdom &

Chairman, Ekiti Council of Traditional Rulers

 

July 01, 2026.

*Oyebanji targets 700,000 votes for Tinubu in 2027, pledges inclusive governance after historic re-election*

*Oyebanji targets 700,000 votes for Tinubu in 2027, pledges inclusive governance after historic re-election*

… Says opposition leaders will be carried along as politics gives way to governance

Backs speedy approval of state police, says governors ready for implementation

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Wednesday projected that the state would deliver between 600,000 and 700,000 votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election, expressing confidence that the target is achievable following the growing electoral support for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Speaking with journalists at State House after meeting President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Oyebanji, who was in the company of the Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, said the steady rise in the party’s electoral performance since 2022 showed that the President’s re-election prospects in Ekiti were “very bright.”

The governor, who recently secured a historic second term in office, said APC won about 187,000 votes in the 2022 governorship election, increased the figure to about 210,000 during the 2023 presidential election, and recorded about 318,000 votes in the just-concluded governorship poll.

He said, “The President’s chances are very bright. In 2022 when we first contested, we won with about 187,000 votes. Six months later, when the President contested and I had only been in office for a few months, we increased it to about 210,000 votes.

“This 2026 governorship election has produced about 318,000 votes. So you can extrapolate from that and see that our target in 2027 is between 600,000 and 700,000 votes, and it is doable”, he said.

Oyebanji attributed his unprecedented re-election victory, the first by any governor in Ekiti State, to what he described as God’s grace and President Tinubu’s support, saying both factors enabled his administration to fulfil its promises to the people.

“It is not about what I have done differently. It is about two factors: the grace of God, and the support of the President that enabled us to deliver on our promises to our people. These are the two factors that led to the result we saw two weeks ago”, he said.

The governor also pledged to run a more inclusive administration in his second term, stressing that the election was over and governance must now take precedence over politics.

He disclosed that he had already reached out to his major opponents after the election, saying he personally called both candidates and had already visited one of them alongside the chairman of his campaign council.

According to him, he would also visit the other opposition candidate on his return to Ekiti, adding that both had assured him of their cooperation in the interest of the state’s development.

“The election ended when the winner was declared. I phoned the two other candidates and, together with the chairman of the campaign council, we visited one of them. Once I get back to Ekiti, I will visit the other one.

“They have assured me of their cooperation because election has ended, politics has ended and we have to move back to governance. I told them I would need their wisdom, suggestions and advice in ensuring that we continue to deliver for our people”, he said.

On his agenda for a second term, Oyebanji said his administration would remain committed to implementing Ekiti State’s 30-year development plan, explaining that the long-term blueprint would continue to guide government policies, annual budgets and development priorities.

“We are not going to do anything differently because that 30-year development plan is the basis upon which our yearly budgets are built and upon which our manifesto is crafted. We will continue to diligently follow that plan”, he stated.

The governor also expressed support for the proposed establishment of state police, saying governors across the country were ready to fast-track its implementation once the constitutional amendment process was completed.

He said the National Economic Council had already deliberated on the issue and that most states had submitted their positions in support of the initiative.

“We are ready for state police. We are thankful to the National Assembly for the constitutional amendments, and we are waiting for them to be transmitted to the state Houses of Assembly.

“The governors have made up their minds that they are going to give it speedy approval so that we can start implementation”, Oyebanji added.

Owa Announces Plan to Establish Ijesa Mining Corporation, Says Enough is Enough

Owa Announces Plan to Establish Ijesa Mining Corporation, Says Enough is Enough

The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, has announced plans to establish the Ijesa Mining Corporation to drive economic development in his kingdom.

The declaration was made by the Owa Obokun when the Alase of Ilase, Oba Isiaka Adesina Ajarabiolu, accompanied by his chiefs, paid a courtesy visit to his palace.

The paramount ruler announced that the mining corporation will be officially registered under the joint ownership of the six Local Government Areas in Ijesaland and the Owa Obokun palace, thereby constituting seven shareholders.

The Owa Obokun recalled knowing some non-indigenous mining companies, notably GAMRA and Odutola, in the 1950s, before Segilola Resources Operating Limited, a leading mining company, commenced operations in the area.

Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup stated that the time has come for the Ijesas to assume control of their destiny by exploiting their God-given resources to foster development in the six Local Government Areas of Ijesaland.

He emphasized that ten percent of the revenue will be allocated to the community where the exploitations occur, while the remainder will be utilized for balanced development across the six local governments.

The paramount ruler of Ijesaland stated that the Owa in council is fully aware of all Complaints regarding the infiltration of certain northerners into some villages and towns, emphasizing that the palace committee on security is fully in charge of the matter.

He called upon the traditional rulers in Ijesaland to lend their support to the committee's endeavors to prevent impending crimes in the area

The Alase of Ilase Ijesa, Oba Isiaka Adesina Ajarabiolu, had earlier provided a progress update on Obokun University, Ilase, and alerted the Owa Obokun to the boundary dispute existing between Ilase and Osogbo.

Alase, a recently elevated Part One Traditional Ruler, notified the error in the naming of the military depot in Ilase Ijesa and sought the Owa's assistance in correcting the mistake at the Ministry of Defense.

Present during the meeting were the Alase in council, the president of Ilase National Union, Barr Dupe Ajayi-Gbadebo, Odole of Ilesa, High Chief Afolabi Makanjuola, the Loro of Ilesa, High Chief Lekan Foloruns, Looja Bode Owofade, Bajimo of Ilesa, Chief Amos Ogunbiyi, Saluwa of Ilesa Chief Samson Awe, Baseemi of Ilesa, Yeyerise of Ilesa , Chief Mrs Hannah Ojo, Yeye Loro, Yeyedofin, Yeye Bajimo, Yeye Sapaye, Yeye Lejoyi and Yeyebaodo.

Adamawa Progressive Elders Council Rallies Support for APC, Sets Sights on 2027 Electoral Victory

## Adamawa Progressive Elders Council Rallies Support for APC, Sets Sights on 2027 Electoral Victory

 In a significant move to consolidate its political foothold, the Adamawa State Progressive Elders Council (APEC) convened a high-level meeting at the Government House, Yola, on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. The gathering, which served as a unified signal of intent ahead of the 2027 election cycle, saw a convergence of the state’s political heavyweights to strategize on party cohesion and electoral dominance.

Presided over by the Chairman, Brig-Gen. MB Marwa (Rtd), the meeting drew an impressive roster of APC stalwarts. Notable attendees included former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Barr. Boss Mustapha; former Governor Bala James Nggilari; Senator Abubakar H. Girei; and elder statesman Alhaji Dahiru Bobbo. Also present were prominent party figures including Mrs. Olvadi Bema Madayi, Senators Bello Tukur, Binta Massi Garba, and Muhammed MoAllahyidi, alongside Ambassadors Fatima Balla Abubakar and Kevin Peter.

The Council opened the proceedings by extending its gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, for his stewardship as the leader of the APC in Adamawa State. By providing the Government House as a venue for the council's deliberations, the Governor underscored a collaborative spirit aimed at strengthening the party's machinery. The Council formally reaffirmed its unwavering loyalty to the Governor’s leadership, noting his active commitment to fostering the unity and success of the party. In a move to ensure seamless alignment, the Chairman was mandated to interface with the Governor to convene the next plenary session, ensuring that all tactical efforts remain in lockstep with the state leadership.

The APEC outlined a rigorous, data-driven approach to the upcoming 2027 elections. The Council called for a robust, all-inclusive Campaign Council headed by Governor Fintiri, with the clear objective of ensuring the victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the presidential level and the election of Alhaji Tijjani Ahmed Galadima as the next Governor of Adamawa State. Moving beyond traditional campaigning, the Council resolved to conduct a scientific survey to obtain an empirical record of the party's strength and to tailor campaign strategies to the specific needs of the electorate Furthermore, members of the Council have been tasked to act as "branding agents," personally connecting candidates with grassroots voters through people-centered engagement. The Council is also preparing a comprehensive mobilization drive for financial, material, professional, and intellectual resources, while pledging to lead the charge in voter registration and expanding the party's base by recruiting new members.

Recognizing the inevitable friction following nomination processes, the Council addressed the state of aggrieved members with candor. Brig-Gen. Marwa (Rtd) emphasized that a reconciliation process is already well underway and yielding positive results. The Council highlighted that while local and community-level efforts are ongoing, Governor Fintiri remains the central figure in driving a comprehensive peace process across the state.

"The meeting ended with a steadfast commitment to ensuring that the APC is strengthened in Adamawa State through unwavering unity and cohesion," stated Ahmad Sajoh, Head of Media and Publicity for APEC. As the 2027 cycle approaches, the Adamawa Progressive Elders Council has signaled that it is in addition to being a body of advisors, also an active, strategic arm of the party focused on securing victory from the grassroots to the national level.

Setting the Record Straight: Why Akinlayo’s Desperate Allegations Against Hon. Ibrahim Olarewaju Are Doomed to Fail

Setting the Record Straight: Why Akinlayo’s Desperate Allegations Against Hon. Ibrahim Olarewaju Are Doomed to Fail

The recent media theatrics by Hon. Kolawole Akinlayo, following his decisive defeat at the APC primary election for Ekiti North Federal Constituency II, represent nothing more than a desperate attempt to manipulate public perception after failing to secure the mandate of the people. It is unfortunate, though not surprising, that a sitting lawmaker would choose to resort to falsehoods and petty innuendo rather than accepting the verdict of his constituents.

For the sake of clarity and to protect the integrity of the process, we must set the record straight: Hon. Ibrahim Olarewaju, a man of integrity and deep respect for the rule of law, was never in violation of any electoral provision. His resignation as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters was officially effective March 31, 2026. This fact is a matter of public record, widely reported in the *Nation* newspaper on April 1, 2026, and further substantiated by his extensive interview with the *Tribune* on April 26, 2026. These documents are readily available; had Hon. Akinlayo been a serious contender rather than a purveyor of assumptions, he could have easily accessed facts of this letter through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. Instead, he chose the path of character assassination, attempting to discredit a candidacy that has received the overwhelming nod of stakeholders, party delegates and members.

It is laughable that Hon. Akinlayo, who lost in all three local governments within the constituency, now claims the election was "fraught with irregularities." One must ask: if the process were truly flawed, why did he wait until he was soundly rejected by the party members to lodge these complaints? His hypocrisy is laid bare by his own history, a man who reportedly entered the House of Representatives through the back door now assumes everyone else must follow the same dishonorable path.

While Akinlayo busies himself with ghost-chasing in the media, the reality on the ground is starkly different. We are reminded of the reports of cultists, thugs, and the use of weapons he intended to use to disrupt the election in areas where he feared defeat. These were not the actions of a democratic aspirant, but of someone desperate to subvert the will of the people. It remains a matter of public concern that those arrested for these planned violent disruptions are currently in Afao prison, and we urge the Inspector General of Police to expedite the investigation into Hon. Akinlayo’s involvement in these crimes.

In stark contrast, we commend Dr. Ayodeji Dada, a fellow contestant who has shown true statesmanship by congratulating Hon. Olarewaju and pledging his support to ensure the APC’s victory in 2027. Dr. Dada understands that politics is about service, not a "do-or-die" affair.

Hon. Ibrahim Olarewaju remains focused on the task ahead, bringing his legislative mastery and executive experience to bear for the benefit of the people of Moba, Ilejemeje, and Ido-Osi. No amount of mudslinging from a rejected politician will distract from the mandate he has rightfully earned. We advise Hon. Akinlayo to take a leaf from the book of his co-contestants, embrace the result, and join the party in the critical work of securing victory for our great party in the upcoming general elections.

The era of back-door politics is over; the era of authentic, grassroots-supported representation has begun.

Signed 

Hon. Ibrahim Media Office

OYEBANJI MOURNS DEATH OF APC CHIEFTAIN, SENATOR ADENIYI

OYEBANJI MOURNS DEATH OF APC CHIEFTAIN, SENATOR ADENIYI

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has mourned the death of a renowned lawyer and frontline leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Anthony Ademiyiwa Adeniyi (SAN). 

The late Senator Adeniyi, who represented Ekiti South Senatorial District in the Senate between 2011 and 2015, passed on Wednesday. He was aged 75 years. 

Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, described the death of the late Senator as a huge a loss to Ekiti State, and Nigeria as a whole, as well as the legal profession and the APC family. 

According to the Governor, the story of the restoration of the mandate of the progressives in Ekiti State, which culminated in the swearing-in of former Governor Kayode Fayemi in 2010 would not be complete without a generous mention of the legal expertise of the late Senator Adeniyi. 

Governor Oyebanji said the late senior lawyer gave a vibrant and result-oriented representation to the people of Ekiti South Senatorial District during his tenure as a Senator in which he championed issues relating to constitutional reforms, electoral reforms, independence of the judiciary, better services by telecoms service providers and attraction of investment into the nation's economy.

Describing the late Senator Adeniyi as a consummate Bar leader, the Governor hailed the deceased for being a faithful officer in the temple of Justice with roles as Chairman of the Akure Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) between 1990 and 1992 and a National Executive Committee member of the association for many years.

He also hailed the tenure of the late Senator Adeniyi as the Chairman of the Board of the defunct Omega Bank during which the bank grew in capital base, expansion and corporate services to the banking public in Nigeria.

The Governor said the Ikere Ekiti-born legal luminary will be remembered for the worthy legacies he left behind and his selfless service for a greater Ekiti and a more prosperous Nigeria during his national service.

“The death of Senator Adeniyi is a huge loss to Ekiti and Nigeria as a whole. We lost a decent politician, a distinguished senior advocate of Nigeria and an illustrious son of the Land of Honour. 

“While we pray that the Lord grant him eternal rest, I encourage his children and members of his family to be comforted with the fact, the late Adeniyi lived a fulfilled life of service and leafy behind a good name and legacies that outlive him. May God grant him eternal rest”, the Governor added.

Tinubu nominates FUOYE exVC as ambassador

 

 

President Bola Tinubu has nominated the immediate-past Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Prof. Abayomi Fasina appintment as a non-career ambassador/high commissioner. 

The nomination was conveyed ina letter read on the floor of the Senate on Thursday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. 

Tinubu said the nomination was made in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). 

“In accordance with the provisions of Section 121, subsections 2, 3, and 4 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, I am pleased to present for confirmation by the Senate the nomination of Prof. Abayomi Sunday Fashina as non-career ambassador/high commissioner designate,’ the letter reads. 

“Attached herewith is the nominee's curriculum vitae.” 

“While I hope that the Senate will consider and confirm the nominee expeditiously, please accept distinguished Senate President and distinguished senators, the assurances of my highest consideration.” 

Following the reading of the letter, Akpabio referred the nomination to the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs for further legislative action. 

The Senate President directed the committee to report back to the chamber within one week.

Ekiti 2026: House of Assembly Candidate, Barr. Tajudeen Olutope Ahmed, Congratulates Governor on Historic Re-Election, Receipt of Certificate of Return

Ekiti 2026: House of Assembly Candidate, Barr. Tajudeen Olutope Ahmed, Congratulates Governor on Historic Re-Election, Receipt of Certificate of Return

Following the landmark outcome of the Ekiti State gubernatorial election, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Ekiti East Constituency II House of Assembly seat, Barr. Tajudeen Olutope Ahmed (TOA), has extended his warmest congratulations to the Executive Governor of Ekiti State on his successful re-election and formal presentation of the Certificate of Return for a second term.

In an official statement dated July 23, 2026, Barr. Ahmed described the Governor’s victory as a historic milestone in the political evolution of the state, noting that achieving a consecutive second term represents a novel and unprecedented feat in Ekiti State’s democratic history. According to the legal practitioner turned politician, the victory is a resounding validation of the Governor’s impactful leadership over the last four years.

Barr. Ahmed emphasized that the renewal of the Governor’s mandate by the electorate is a direct reflection of the deep-seated confidence the people of Ekiti have in his administration. He noted that it stands as a clear testament to the confidence reposed in the Governor's leadership by the good people of Ekiti State and a true reflection of his enduring service to the State.

As an active player in the state’s political landscape and a flagbearer for the ruling APC in Ekiti East Constituency II, Barr. Ahmed expressed profound gratitude to the Governor for his unwavering support and mentorship, stating that he has personally benefited from the Governor's benevolence and leadership support. He joined countless well-wishers across the nation to commend the Governor’s resilience, dedication, and steadfast commitment to driving progress in the "Land of Honour."

Looking forward to the next four years, the House of Assembly candidate expressed absolute confidence that the second term will serve as an era of consolidation, bringing sustainable development, deeper unity, and widespread prosperity to every nook and cranny of Ekiti State. While pledging his unalloyed loyalty and continued support to the administration, Barr. Ahmed prayed for a successful, peace-filled, and impactful second term as the Governor steers the affairs of the state until 2030.

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.