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Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has officially declared his intention to seek re-election, following what he described as overwhelming public endorsement and cross-party political support across the state.
Governor Oyebanji announced this on Monday during a meeting with members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Central Working Committee at the party’s secretariat in Ado-Ekiti. He said the decision to pursue a second term was driven by the desire to consolidate on the achievements of his first tenure and continue delivering quality governance.
According to the Governor, “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.”
He acknowledged the broad-based support his administration has received from stakeholders across the state, including traditional rulers, professional associations, civil servants, artisans, youth organisations, market women, transport unions, and political leaders from different affiliations.
Expressing gratitude to the APC leadership for their trust and confidence, Oyebanji highlighted his administration’s accomplishments within three years, asserting that he has kept all promises made during his initial campaign.
“I appreciate you for your support, endurance and for holding the party together,” he said. “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.”
He credited President Tinubu’s economic policies for accelerating development in Ekiti State. “The President’s economic policies have helped the state develop more rapidly,” he added.
Reiterating his commitment to internal party democracy, Oyebanji stressed that the APC in Ekiti remains united and open. “Let me also assure you that there is no crisis in the leadership of APC. Our topmost leader is former Governor Niyi Adebayo, followed by former Governor Kayode Fayemi. There is no crisis in the leadership,” he said.
The Governor further stated that the party’s doors remain open to any aspirant wishing to contest the 2026 governorship ticket. He also urged residents to ensure they obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in preparation for the election.
On the role of elder statesmen in the APC, Oyebanji reaffirmed his respect for past governors of the state, describing them as foundational pillars of the party. “Their contributions to the growth and stability of the APC in Ekiti are invaluable,” he said, promising to continue giving them the recognition they deserve.
His declaration was met with thunderous applause from attendees at the meeting.
In his opening remarks, the Ekiti State APC Chairman, Barrister Sola Elesin, praised the Governor for his inclusive leadership style and commitment to both party unity and state development. He described Oyebanji as a bridge-builder whose humility and performance have endeared him to party members and the broader public.
“Under Governor Oyebanji’s leadership, the party has remained strong and united,” Elesin said, adding that the prevailing peace within the APC was due to the Governor’s respect for party structures and his consultative approach to governance.
Also present at the meeting were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Speaker of the 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 on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe, among others.
