Temisan Olaifa
The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has formally declared his intention to seek a second term in office, following an overwhelming wave of public endorsement and political support across the state in recent times.
Governor Oyebanji, who made his intention known on Monday during a meeting with members of the Central Working Committee of the All Progressive Congress (APC) held at the party secretariat in Ado-Ekiti, cited the need to consolidate on the gains of his first administration and to continue delivering quality governance as well as the encouragement and overwhelming support he had received across the state which include traditional rulers, professional bodies, civil servants, artisans, youth groups, market women, drivers unions and political leaders across party lines.
Expressing his appreciation to the party leadership for their trust and confidence in his administration and highlighting his administration’s achievements in less than three years in office, Governor Oyebanji maintained that he has fulfilled all his campaign promises to the party leadership and the people of Ekiti State.
While emphasising his commitment to the principles of democracy and internal democracy within the party, the Governor noted that the APC in Ekiti remains one big family, stressing that there is no division in the party.
Governor Oyebanji, who also reaffirmed his loyalty and respect for former governors of the State, who he described as “the leaders of the party”, noted that their contribution to the growth and stability of the APC in Ekiti remains invaluable.
He assured that his administration would continue to accord them the honour and recognition they deserve as elder statesmen and foundational pillars of the party.
The governor assured the party leadership that his government would ensure that the APC remains attractive to the people.
He also said that any interested governorship aspirant within the party is free to contest for the party’s ticket.
He urged Ekiti citizens to obtain their Permanent Voters Cards ahead of the June 2026 governorship electio to be able to vote and ensure that their voices arelection.
He also thanked the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support for Ekiti State. He said the President’s economic
Policies have helped the state develop more rapidly.
“Let me start by appreciating you, thank you for your support, endurance, and for holding the party.
“On behalf of myself, the Deputy Governor, and other political office holders, we are extremely grateful for your prayers and understanding. I also thank you on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the endorsement.
“Let me also assure you that there is no crisis in the leadership of the APC, our topmost leader is former Governor Niyi Adebayo, followed by former Governor Kayode Fayemi. There is no crisis in the leadership.
“I will also use this opportunity to inform you that I have listened to you and I am formally informing the party that I will run for a second term.
“So, I plead for your support and prayers, and by His grace, I will continue to respect you”, the governor affirmed.
His declaration was greeted with thunderous applause by those in attendance at the meeting.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Ekiti, Barrister Sola Elesin commended Governor Oyebanji for his leadership style and commitment to the growth and development of the state and the party. He described the Governor as a unifying figure whose humility, accessibility, and performance in office had endeared him to party members, Ekiti leaders, and the general public.
He explained that the party remains stronger and united under Oyebanji’s leadership, adding that the peaceful atmosphere in the party was a result of the Governor’s inclusive approach and respect for party structure.
Also at the meeting were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo, Special Adviser Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe, among others.
