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Tag: Oyebanji

  • Cleric seeks Oyebanji’s intervention on prolonged black out in Ekiti communities

    Cleric seeks Oyebanji’s intervention on prolonged black out in Ekiti communities

    A cleric, Prophet Adegboyega Ologbonyo, has requested urgent intervention of Ekiti Governor, Abiodun Oyebanji over eight-month blackout in Ise-Orun and Emure communities in Ekiti State.

    He lamented the communities have been plunged into agonising blackout for the past eight months.

    Speaking at the 16th anniversary of CAC Boanerges, Ologbonyo, who is the Zonal Superintendent, said the prolonged lack of electricity has not only jeopardised countless businesses in the communities, which has led to significant financial losses, but also thrust many families into unimaginable hardship, struggling to meet basic financial needs.

    He said: “As someone who has lived and served in these communities for more than 26 years, I bear witness to the persistent challenges that residents face daily. Throughout these decades, the absence of functioning pipe-borne water has been a constant struggle as I have not witnessed any that produces water for the people. 

    “Our people are forced to expend valuable time, energy, and resources in search of their own water sources, a basic necessity that should be readily available.”

    He said aside lack of electricity, the state of roads network in Ise-Orun and Emure Ekiti was also deplorable, which according to him is hindering economic activity and making daily commutes a burden. 

    He noted that majority of people in Ise-Orun, Emure communities are farming, adding that providing motorable roads that connect the farms to the cities would go a long way in boosting the economy.

    According to him: “The roads connecting Uso, Ijan and Agbado to Ise Ekiti, as well as Emure Ilé to Ọwọ are extremely important to the agricultural economy of the people. At present, the deplorable state of these roads has not only hindered the economic activities, but it has made the roads to become terrifying hide-outs for kidnappers, making the security situation to become increasingly alarming, and causing fear and uncertainty among the citizens. 

    “This situation would not encourage the attraction of investors into these communities, and may truncated the economic potentials of the communities. 

    “I know our Governor to be a good listener, a leader who truly has the welfare of his people at heart. It is this conviction that emboldens me to lay these pressing issues before you. I humbly implore you, Your Excellency, and all relevant stakeholders, to urgently address these critical concerns. 

    “Restoring electricity, providing access to clean pipe-borne water, improving our road infrastructure, and bolstering security are not just desires; they are fundamental rights that will significantly uplift the lives of our people. 

    “The government can consider embracing the use of modern technology like drones and other viable solutions that are being used in the Western world to enhance the government’s efforts in guaranteeing the security of its citizens. 

    “I pray the Lord continues to bless His Excellency and every other stakeholder involved in the governance of our state. Your efforts to improve the lives of Ekiti citizens are deeply valued.”

  • Stakeholders set to appraise Gov Oyebanji’s performance

    Stakeholders set to appraise Gov Oyebanji’s performance

    Ahead of the next year governorship election in Ekiti State, a non-governmental cross-generational organization, Ekiti Future Agenda is set to engage relevant stakeholders in Ekiti State sociopolitical system in an objective evaluation of the incumbent administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who is obviously seeking a reelection into the office. 

     This is going to be in the organization’s periodic Special Roundtable scheduled for July 10th in Ado-Ekiti, the State capital.

    According to the organizers of the event, Adesina Adetola, the Convener of Ekiti Future Agenda, “the event, which is aptly titled; Approaching 2026: How Far, How Well, So Far? is BAO’s 6 Pillars Of Administration, is principally to genuinely evaluate the Governor Oyebanji’s administration’s achievement so far, based on its 6 pillars of administration; which are; Governance, Youth Development and Job Creation, Human Capital Development, Agriculture and Rural Development, Infrastructure and Industrialization as well as Arts, Culture and Tourism. This will be done with relative objectivity, sincerity devoid of partisanship.” 

    Read Also: Ekiti communities endorse Oyebanji for second term

    The event which will have a good number of political stakeholders, union leaders, youths, students, professionals, artisans, market women, pressmen, members of the opposition parties among others as participants will be chaired and moderated by the State’s Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun while, the Director General, Office of Transformation and Service Delivery (OTSD), Engr. John Moyo Ekundayo will be the Lead Discussant.

    “The choices of Olatunbosun and Ekundayo are for obvious reasons, they are to give appropriate facts and figures for the participants to evaluate and appraise. Someone outside the government circle wouldn’t be able to provide this adequately.” Adetola said.

    Over the Years, Ekiti Future Agenda has initiated and executed numbers of activities, projects and interventions in Ekiti State. Typically, in giving back value to the State, these are in form of advocacy, schemes and education, which have become defining moments in the annals of the state’s development. The Ekiti Future Agenda Roundtable since 2010 is primarily a conversation on development of Ekiti State with the main aim and objective of serving as a rendezvous of ideas and strategies towards development of Ekiti State in all areas.

  • Ekiti communities endorse Oyebanji for second term

    Ekiti communities endorse Oyebanji for second term

    • Governor has lived to expectation, says Mimiko

    Ahead of next year’s governorship election in Ekiti State, the leaders of Ekiti West Constituency II,  comprising Okemesi and Ido-Ile communities have endorsed Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term in office.

    The endorsement took place  in Ido- Ile.

    According to the communique, a former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Wale Fapohunda (SAN) moved the motion for the adoption of the resolutions while the Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode seconded the motion.

    The communique was signed by Member, representing Ekiti West Constituency 2 in the Ekiti State House of Assembly,  Johnson Oyekola Bode-Adeoye ; Chairman, Ekiti West Constituency 2, Chief Ilesanmi Ajibade; Secretary, Ekiti West Constituency 2, Mr. Sunday Adegbaye and the Chairman, Communique Drafting Committee, Dr. Tai Oguntayo

    The leaders explained that the administration of Governor Oyebanji in two and a half years has positively impacted on lives of the people across the 16 Local Government Areas of the state especially in the constituency.

    The leaders acknowledged the governor’s developmental projects in the two communities including road infrastructures, human capital development, health care, education and agriculture.

    Read Also: FG moves to curb illegal migration, economic desperation among youths

    They called on party members to be united and work towards the progress of the party and solicited the support of the people for the administration of Governor Oyebanji in his quest to deliver on his shared prosperity agenda for the state.

    It reads:” The meeting noted the unprecedented developmental projects that are ongoing in the Constituency, specifically in the areas of road infrastructure, agriculture, health care, and human capital  development, including  an impressive number of political appointments.

    “It is in the interest of the Constituency to continue to support Governor Biodun Oyebanji in furtherance of the socio- economic development of Okemesi- Ido ile communities as well as other communities in the state.

    “We support the state wide clamour for a second term tenure for Mr. Governor in view of his sterling performance in office. We will immediately begin the mobilization of all the different interest groups in the constituency  on a continuous basis to ensure 99.9 per cent of votes cast for the Governor in 2026 governorship  poll.

    Mimiko urges support for Ekiti governor

    Also, former Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko h praised Oyebanji for his impactful leadership and dedication to the state’s  development, stressing that the state has witnessed unprecedented progress under his leadership

    Mimiko, who gave the commendation in Ado Ekiti during a courtesy visit to the Governor’s office said Oyebanji has successfully combined competence and character to drive meaningful development in the state.

    Mimiko applauded the giant strides made by Governor Oyebanji in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment.

    He said Oyebanji’s rare blend of qualities has enabled him to implement impactful policies, foster unity among stakeholders, and prioritize the welfare of the people.

    Reflecting on his long-standing relationship with Oyebanji even before the creation of Ekiti State,  Mimiko expressed satisfaction with the pace of progress in Ekiti, noting that Oyebanji had shown preparedness for governance, having undergone the required tutelage and imbibed essential political values.

    “What I have seen in terms of outcomes, I am not disappointed. I feel good about it and like I said Biodun Oyebanji is prepared for the job, he went through required tutelage because apart from the technical competence, there is also the character. This is a man who is good in the head and is good in his heart and that has translated to the transformation we can see in the state.

    “The governor has also deployed his personality cachet which is why every past Governor in the state irrespective of political persuasion have endorsed him for second term which speaks a lot about what he has been able to achieve and also his relationship with people, I am very proud of him.”

    Oyebanji, who expressed gratitude to the former Ondo Governor for the visit, described Mimiko as his political mentor and the leader  who discovered his political talents, said the visit was long anticipated.

    Oyebanji, while explaining how Mimiko introduced him to politics and instilled in him values of honesty, competence, and integrity, attributed much of his leadership style, including his simplicity and focus on people-centred governance to the mentorship re received from Dr Mimiko.

    He said: “Governor Mimiko is a mentor to me and I used to tell people that if Ekiti State was not created, I would have been a critical part of his government. I worked with him closely and I studied him. He was my first political contact and he instilled some values in me. Values of honesty, values of competence, of been satisfied  with little, and values of living for the people were picked from him.”

  • 2nd Anniversary: Nigeria making progress under Tinubu, says Oyebanji

    2nd Anniversary: Nigeria making progress under Tinubu, says Oyebanji

    Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State says President Bola Tinubu has provided remarkable leadership in the last two years.

    Oyebanji hailed the President for stabilising the ship of the state which, he said has been “successfully anchored with life-changing policies” that were having positive effects on the economy and other key sectors.

    The Governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, made this known in a statement in Ado-Ekiti on Thursday.

    Oyebanji lauded the courage exhibited by the President in tackling the myriads of problems he met on ground, noting that the right solutions provided have brought some relief to Nigerians.

    He noted that Tinubu’s visionary leadership and conscientious pursuit of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda has been yielding dividends and strengthened the polity to the admiration of many Nigerians.

    According to him, it is fulfilling and heart-warming to note that under two years of the Tinubu Presidency, Nigeria is now in a better shape than at any time in the past decade based on microeconomic and macroeconomic indices on ground.

    The governor applauded Tinubu’s investment in agriculture, mining, blue economy, tourism and other key sectors which he believes would translate to better standards of living and generate more jobs for Nigerians.

    Read Also: Oyebanji: Brighter future awaits our children

    Oyebanji also commended the President for his economic reforms, which is making more resources available to the sub nationals, thereby enhancing growth and development across the states of the federation.

    He further expressed gratitude to the President for assisting the state with empowerment initiatives, capital projects, appointments of deserving indigenes into prominent positions and siting of a new Federal University among several other benefits.

    The governor urged the people of Ekiti at home and in Diaspora to keep supporting the President in working to realise his vision for a greater and more prosperous Nigeria in years to come.

    “On behalf of the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I wish the President a happy anniversary and pray that God Almighty continues to guide and order his steps aright,” Oyebanji stated.

    (NAN)

  • Oyebanji: Brighter future awaits our children

    Oyebanji: Brighter future awaits our children

    Ekiti  State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji yesterday congratulated children  as they celebrate this year’s Children’s Day.

    Oyebanji said his administration appreciates the value of children and would stop at nothing to invest in their human capital development, for them to be well positioned as leaders and frontliners in different spheres of life.

    This is made known in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode,  describing children as special gifts from God that must be nurtured in the right way for the society to benefit from their God-given potentials.

    The governor who assured that a brighter and rewarding future await Ekiti children, said there is need for synergy between government, private sector, families, corporate and religious organizations to invest in the future of children for the betterment of the society.

    READ ALSO: Neglected Lagos roads

    He noted that his administration has committed and still commits enormous resources to child care and development in the areas of education, healthcare delivery, safe learning environment, Rights protection and other forms of support to expose them to better standard of living.

    He stressed that the free education policy in the state, provision of instructional materials and top-notch infrastructural facilities at public schools are aimed at ensuring that all children have access to qualitative education.

    Oyebanji stated that his administration rigorously implements constitutional and legal frameworks to protect the rights of children, which made the state a model in ensuring that the dignity of children is upheld.

    He urged parents, guardians and teachers to collaborate with his administration to give the children platforms to realize their dreams of becoming great men and women in the future.

  • Ekiti APC leaders endorse Oyebanji for second term

    Ekiti APC leaders endorse Oyebanji for second term

    Leaders and members of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Ekamefa communities, Ajoni Local Council Development Area of Ekiti State, have endorsed Governor Biodun Oyebanji to continue the governance of the state till 2030.

    The leaders under the banner of the Abejide political dynasty from Ekamefa being spearheaded by the Chairman, Ekiti State Local Government Service Commission, Chief Alaba Abejide, said they took the action to reciprocate Governor Oyebanji’s outstanding delivery and leadership style.

    They arrived at the unanimous and overwhelming decision on Thursday, at a well-attended political gathering held at Ipao Ekiti Country home of Chief Abejide and attended by critical stakeholders and members of the party.

    Other high-profile leaders that constitute the political movement are: Chairman, Ajoni LCDA, Hon. Prince Michael Ogungbemi, ex-Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dele Olugbemi, Technical Advisor to the Governor, Hon Muyiwa Olukosi, SSA on Agric Processing Zone, Pastor Kehinde Ajayi and a Special Assistant, Femi Andero, among others.

    Moving the endorsement motion, the Technical Advisor on Policy Evaluation, Hon. Olukosi, said Oyebanji has delivered exceedingly well via completion of the Ele bridge along Itapaji/Iyemero Road, siting of the Agriculture  Processing zone in Ekamefa, the ongoing reconstruction of Ayedun-Irele road, relief materials to rainstorm victims and fairness in terms of political appointments to Ekamefa.

    At the leaders’ prodding, the motion was seconded by the Senior Special Assistant on Agriculture Processing Zone, Mr. Kehinde Ajayi.

    Read Also: Ekiti 2026: Ex-deputy gov Aluko heads committee for Oyebanji’s second term

    Ratifying the endorsement, the leader of the political movement, Chief Samuel Abejide, said the move was a reciprocation of Oyebanji’s goodness to Ekamefa and a request for more dividends for the residents.

    “This is a reciprocation of the Governor’s performance. But we are pleading that the governor should appoint a member of the State Executive Council from this area. We are passionate about this, because our support here is total. We have a one-party here in Ekamefa”, Abejide said.

    A leader of the group and Chairman of Ajoni LCDA, Michael Ogungbemi, commended Governor Oyebanji for not disappointing the citizens, saying they would reciprocate further with votes in the 2026 governorship poll.

    “We have never wavered in our support, we will never deviate from our progressive ways. We are with Chief Abejide, who is a strong supporter of Governor Oyebanji. When things were tough and rough, we delivered, and I know that it will be easier this time”, Ogungbemi said.

    The Ekamefa Central Coordinator, Hon. Afeez Adeyemo, declared that Ekamefa has always been in the progressive fold, saying the area will deliver overwhelmingly for Oyebanji in the next election.

    In his acceptance speech, Governor Oyebanji stated that he was overwhelmed by the quantum of endorsements he was enjoying in Ekiti, describing this as a propelling force that will make him rev up the pedal of delivery to benefit more citizens.

    The governor, represented by the Director General, Bureau of Community Communication, Mrs Mary Oso Omotoso, stated that he was thrilled by the inclusiveness in the party’s mobilisation structures at Ekamefa, which makes the endorsement more worthwhile and exhilarating to him.

    “Let me assure you, Governor Oyebanji will continue to serve you. This gathering shows how much love you have for your government. You know he has always been inclusive; nobody is neglected in this government. I know you have felt his impact in this axis.

    “I am grateful that before the election, Ekiti people have been showing appreciation for the governor’s performance and inclusiveness. He is happy that you show readiness to vote for him. I have no doubt that you will work hard and deliver for us. You have shown the evidence, and we are happy about this.

    “The governor will never disappoint you. He is a people-loving Governor and a friend of the masses”.

  • Ekiti 2026: Ex-deputy gov Aluko heads committee for Oyebanji’s second term

    Ekiti 2026: Ex-deputy gov Aluko heads committee for Oyebanji’s second term

    Former Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Abiodun Aluko, has been named to head the committee for the statewide unified endorsement of the incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji for a second term in office.

    The political move followed unanimous endorsements of Governor Oyebanji’s second term by stakeholders from each of the three senatorial districts, various groups and individuals, including the State caucus of All Progressives Congress (APC), which is the highest organ of the party in the state.

    The committee was constituted in Ado Ekiti at a meeting of critical stakeholders, including key political leaders, opinion leaders, and community leaders across the state.

    Members of the committee tagged “BAO State Endorsement Committee” include former deputy governor, Prof Modupe Adelabu, and Elder Alaba Bejide as co-chairmen, while Hon. Karounwi Oladapo, Hon. Folorunso Olabode, and Hon. Seun Afuye will serve as Secretary, Treasurer, and Welfare Officer, respectively.

    The Leader of the ninth Senate, Michael Opeyemi, representing Senators from the State, and Femi Bamisile, representing Members of the House of Representatives from the State, are also members of the committee.

    Others are: Barr. Sola Elesin, party’s State Chairman, Hon. Dele Fatile, Comrade Segun Dipe representing the APC State Exco, Evang. Ayo Kolawole, Chairman, North Senatorial District; Hon. Bankole Odekun, Chairman, Central Senatorial District; Chief Akindele Akinbobola, Chairman, South Senatorial District; Hon. Michael Akinleye representing the APC Local Government Party Chairmen; Hon. Olusegun Ojo representing ALGON in the State.

    Read Also: Oyebanji: A festival of endorsement in Ekiti

    They also include Mrs. Caroline Egunlusi, the party’s State Women Leader, Mrs. Akinwale Kikelomo, Mrs Omolabi Bolanle representing party women and Women Stakeholders, High Chief Olajide Awe, Otunba Lekan Oyebanji, Rt. Hon. Stephen Aribasoye, representing the State House of Assembly, Mrs Mary Oso-Omotosho for Communities Representation, and Rt Hon Taiwo   Olatunbosun, representing the Media   (Publicity).

    Speaking shortly after the inauguration of the committee in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, Aluko stressed that Governor Oyebanji’s second-term endorsement is rooted in his administration’s tangible achievements, inclusive governance, and commitment to the welfare of all segments of the state.

    He noted that the governor has been meticulously implementing his six-pillars of ‘Shared Prosperity Agenda’, which cut across all strata of governance to the admiration of all stakeholders since the assumption of office.

    Aluko said the Oyebanji-led government has made remarkable progress and has impacted the lives of the people, which has practically silenced opposition within the state, with leading opposition figures praising and supporting him.

    He said, “The governor’s impact has been significantly felt across all sectors, resulting in a series of endorsements and support for him to run for a second term until 2030. Is it road infrastructure or healthcare investment, welfare of workers and pensioners, investment in agriculture, educational support, care for the elderly and vulnerable citizens, and human capital development?

    “From pensioners to artisans, labour unions, workers, traditional institutions, youth and women groups, there has been a consistent declaration of support, even non-partisan individuals and groups that transcend political, religion and social strata have declared support for Oyebanji’s second term, leading many to suggest that he is going to face the easiest gubernatorial elections in the state’s history”, Aluko added. 

  • Oyebanji: A festival of endorsement in Ekiti

    Oyebanji: A festival of endorsement in Ekiti

    Since the return of civilian administration in 1999, Ekiti State has produced five governors: Otunba Niyi Adebayo of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and Engr. Segun Oni of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP); Dr. Kayode Fayemi of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and All Progressives Congress (APC); and Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji of the APC.

    None has attracted or received huge adulation for style more than the incumbent. BAO, as the governor is fondly called, has become a brand, a reference point, and a home-boy leader in whom the indigenes and residents are well pleaded.

    Today, the blood of all Ekiti flows in the veins of the Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji government. The over 120 towns and villages are in one accord. Gone are the theatres of war and rumours of violence. There is peace in the ruling party, the government it midwifed, and the state. There is no scandal. There is no controversy. There is no bickering. There is no media confrontation. There is no protracted antagonism. There is neither adversary nor misfortune. Ekiti is not in the news for the wrong reasons.

    Twenty-nine years after its creation, the state is in the safe hands of its youngest founding father, who keeps the vision and hope alive. As Ekiti gazes at 2026, the collective focus is the continuity of good governance under the people-friendly governor who has demystified power and mobilised the people to take ownership of the administration.

    Nearly all the bigwigs in the Fountain of Knowledge state have endorsed him for a second term. They cut across the ruling and opposition parties. It is unprecedented. Greater is the number of townspeople, particularly the voters, who have endorsed him in their hearts without voicing it. In every district, constituency, local government, town, and ward where the endorsements have taken place, there is justification. It is just too easy to point to the imprints of the current administration in every neighbourhood.

    It is a big lesson to his colleagues in some other states, especially those who are distracted by the predecessor-successor crisis they brought upon themselves by their lack of knowledge, experience, foresight, hindsight, and tact.

    Read Also: Oyebanji’s compassion, humanity and politics

    Oyebanji stands tall in character, sincerity, and integrity before the common man who is more interested in the distribution of the dividends of democracy than plunging with the players into the murky waters of politics. Across the sensitive sectors, there are no letdowns in the scorecard.

    There is public trust because the governor is straightforward, loyal to the state, and genuinely concerned about the yearnings for improved welfare. Workers, pensioners, traditional rulers, top politicians, traders, and youths are perceptive that a new foundation for future prosperity is being erected.

    There is inclusion. There is an open-door style of governance. But Oyebanji has also been firm and decisive in decision-making, implementation, and evaluation of policies and programmes dictated by need analysis.

    The humility of his heart and soul is legendary. Never allowing power and the prestige of a transient position to draw the wool across his eyes, BAO is still the pre-2021 BAO – simple, tender, respectful, and wiser. He accords the elders due respect and encourages a system of problem-solving. The picture of a governor prostrating for his elders in public is not showmanship; it is spontaneous, voluntary, and cultural. It is an expression of the internalised beliefs, values, and virtues of an Omoluabi.

    The inclusive policies of his administration have birthed the expansion of the structures of participation and responsibility. The masses’ involvement has engendered commitment and fostered a sense of belonging among the people who are linked by historical factors as “One Zone-State” and not by accident of geography. A sense of involvement is a core and tangible dividend of democracy.

    As an Ekiti man to the core, the governor’s grassroots exposure is a vital asset in boosting communication and cementing the bond with the countryside. Since he is approachable, channels of information and feedback on government policies and programmes are also accessible. Equipped with the Ekiti dialect he enjoys speaking, there is no perceived aloofness and remoteness. Oyebanji does not forget that he needs to check on his old teachers, former barber, cobbler, old mates, a political ward, or those who played the game of draughts on the streets with him that a good habit is not only for the fun of it. Critics may impugn a populist tendency. But the governor, in the process, feels the pulse of the people in his environment and what good governance entails. He practicalises service delivery and he discovers the areas his administration needs to improve upon.

    Yet, BAO, the political scientist, is also adept at diplomacy, which he taught his students of Foreign Policy at the Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, in the mid-nineties. The nucleus of his administrative style is the application of tact – to the extent that being diplomatic entails a problem-solving skill that enables him to restore order and normalcy in any situation without upsetting the two sides in a dispute.

    The corollary is native intelligence, which has greatly assisted the governor of the complex and politically sophisticated state in tackling challenges through reasoning, understanding, and judgment in a moment of grave anxiety.

    It is also a rare display of wisdom for someone who knows so much to also be so calm and reticent to the extent that observers are logically content that a slice of butter would not melt in his mouth.

    That image of a powerful man who nevertheless cannot hurt a fly has been helpful so far in his politics of penetration and consensus-building. Oyebanji became a unifying factor, with the past governors who never politically saw eye to eye now joining hands to build a protective shield around him.

    He is an APC chieftain, but through his exceptional inter-party relations, Oyebanji, who also has many Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members enjoying appointments in his administration, is also reaping the partisan benefits of political tolerance and accommodation.

    It is gratifying that the multiple endorsements have not diverted his full attention from state duties to praise singing. The governor is focused on the implementation of people-centred developmental policies, programmes and, particularly, infrastructural projects that are evenly distributed across the three artificially delineated senatorial districts. There is balance. There is equality. Also, there is equity.

    There is the element of luck in Oyebanji’s political ascendancy. Being a true Christian, he understands that it is the special grace of God that has ensured his survival on the slippery political field.

    It would be strange, and indeed, counter-productive, if the governor changes this unique style, for whatever reason, with the passage of time. The character should persist so that he can also remain a man of honour.

    Next year, he is expected to break the second-term jinx. The feat would also make him a reference point in Ekiti politics.

  • Ekiti 2026: Will Oyebanji break succession jinx?

    Ekiti 2026: Will Oyebanji break succession jinx?

    Since its creation in 1996, no incumbent governors in Ekiti state has successfully secure a second term in office. But the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji is on cusp of breaking the long standing self-succession jinx come 2026. RASAQ IBRAHIM examines the governor’s push for continuity.

    Ekiti State has a peculiar history when it comes to gubernatorial elections. Since its creation in 1996 by the military junta, no incumbent governor has successfully secured a second term. The second term jinx otherwise called the self-succession puzzle has become a recurring theme in the state’s electoral politics.

    The jinx has been a persistent challenge for incumbent governors, with each one facing fiercely opposition and ultimately losing re-election bid.Ekiti has produced four governors before Governor Biodun Oyebanji fondly called ‘BAO’ assumed the reins of power. Although they sought for second term, their ambitions were twarted by ‘centripetal and centrifugal forces’.

    In 1999, Otunba Adeniyi Adedayo who was elected on the platform of defunct Alliance for Democracy (AD) could not secure his second term; he was defeated by ex- governor Ayo Fayose of People’s Democratic Party in 2003.  Fayose had his first term abruptly truncated in 2006 when the kiti state House of Assembly impeached him and former  President Olusegun Obasanjo declared a state of emergency in the state. The late General Tunji Olurin was appointed as the sole administrator of the state till 2007.

    Former governor Segun Oni was elected governor of the state in May 2007 but his tenure was terminated by Appeal Court in 2009, which brought in Tunji Odeyemi, a former Speaker as acting governor till 2010 when the court declared Dr. Kayode Fayemi as winner of 2007 governorship election.

    Fayemi assumed office in October 2010 to 2014 but failed to  secure a second term. The former Chairman of Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) was  defeated by Fayose, who was staged a dramatic comeback to the Oke Ayoba Government House barely eight years after he was impeached.

    This seemingly political trend has led many keen watchers of Ekiti  electoral  process to wonder if there is a curse or a hex on the state’s politics that prevents incumbents from securing a second term.

    But the question on the people’s mind as the 2026 governorship poll approaches is Can the incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji solve self-succession puzzle and secure second term?, will he be able to overcome the challenges that plagued his precedecessors? or will history repeat itself?

    Oyebanji’s growing endorsements within and outside his party, All Progressives Congress have sparked high hopes that he might break the second term jinx and win re-election in the 2026 governorship poll.

    Political analysts believed that Governor Oyebanji is on the cusp of breaking the aged long self-succession jinx because all the causative factors that led his four precedecessors not to secure second term have been eliminated.

    His administration’s achievements, weak opposition, broad appeal, and growing endorsements from critical stakeholders including the political elites, traditional rulers, opposition leaders, civil servants, pensioners and the leaders of thought were cited as evidence that the governor might succeed where his predecessors faltered.

    Governor Oyebanji’s support base and popularity continue to grow day by day. It was whispers from Ikere-Ekiti, echoed in Ado-Ekiti and  rising in Ido-Ekiti, as the name ‘BAO’ resonates in every nook and cranny of the state. His leadership style, bottom-up approach, humility and people -centric policies and lofty programmes have endeared him to all Ekiti people.

    The governor has been able to unite all his predecessors including Fayose, Oni Fayemi and Adebayo as well as other key political figures in Ekiti irrespective of their political leanings, changing the history of the existing hitherto politics of bitterness in the state.

    Oyebanji’s style in Ekiti has silenced the voices of opposition, a development that sharply contrasts existing electioneering processes in the land of Honour. Unlike before, Ekiti politicians across  parties are showing reluctance to challenge the governor in the 2026 governorship poll.

     This unusual development stems from several factors including the governor’s overwhelming popularity, broad appeal, unprecedented achievements, inclusive leadership style, and cut-like followership among the people that have solidified his position.

    The opposition PDP which is expected to pose a challenge to Oyebanji’s second term bid is in the intensive care unit. The party is grappling with internal crisis and power struggle, which has weakened its chances of presenting a formidable and united front against the governor.

    Read Also: Oyebanji flags off aerial mapping of Ekiti to enhance land administration

    Unlike the APC, which has been actively engaging in  politicking and garnering support for Oyebanji’s re-election bid, the umbrella party has been relatively quiet, with little visible activity or  presence in the state.

    The PDP’s leadership crisis has created a power vacuum, allowing the ruling APC to consolidate its strong hold on power and making it harder for the opposition party to challenge the broom party come 2026.

    Though, the ruling APC has a history of intense power struggles, recent events within the chapter suggest that governor Oyebanji might secure the party’s ticket unopposed as he has garnered support of power brokers in the umbrella party including the  Senate Leader, Michael Bamidele, the senator representing Ekiti  Central in the upper chamber who many had thought would give the governor a tough challenge.

    The endorsements of Governor Oyebanji for a second term are spreading rapidly like harmattan fire sweeping across the state. The latest endorsement comes from Ekiti North APC leaders who have unanimously backed Oyebanji and his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, for a second term.This endorsement follows similar gestures from Ekiti Central and South senatorial districts APC leaders, demonstrating statewide supports for Oyebanji.

    The leaders who took the decision at a special meeting of the APC stakeholdres, held at Events Arcade, Ido Ekiti, cited the the governor’s achievement in education, infrastructure, healthcare, human capital development as reasons for endorsing  Oyebanji.

    Among dignitaries at the event were the Senator representing Ekiti North, Cyril Fasuyi, the House of Representatives members representing Ekiti North I and II Hon. Akinlayo Kolawole and Hon. Akin Rotimi; Speaker and Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Adeboye Aribasoye.

    Others were Ekiti APC chairman, Barr. Sola Eleshin, the Special Adviser/ DG Office of  Transformation and Service Delivery, Engr. John Moyo Ekundayo as well as former and serving members of the state and National assembly.

    The leaders said Governor Oyebanji has laid a solid foundation for transformative progress and growth  that must not be disrupted, stressing that his second term would ensure completion of numerous impactful projects, safeguard Ekiti’s future and further elevate the state to new heights of prosperity.

    Speaking while moving the endorsement motion, which was ratified through a thunderous voice vote, Fasuyi, praised Governor Oyebanji for his outstanding leadership and dedication to grassroots development.

    He said that the governor has touched every local government in the Ekiti North Senatorial District with transformative projects that have directly impacted the lives of the people.

      The Senator explained that the Governor has fulfilled all his electoral promise to Ekiti people and effectively delivered on the six pillars of his administration, which include infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, governance, and social development.

    “Because the Governor has done well, he has over performed and we have all seen him, this is the first time we are having this kind of a thing where all political parties will endorse a sitting Governor. He has delivered on all the six pillars of his administration and Ekiti North has felt his presence, we have felt his impact in all the five local governments in Ekiti North and a good turn deserves another.

    “So, I Senator Cyril Fasuyi, representing the good people of Ekiti North move a motion today the 29th of April, 2025 for the endorsement of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye to continue and contest for second term from 2026 to 2030”.

    In his opening remarks, the Chairman of Ekiti North Progressive Leader’s Forum, Chief Abejide said that the Governor has ensured that the benefit of governance are felt in grassroots level hence their believe that the path to sustain growth and good governance in the state lies in re-election of Governor Oyebanji.

    He said “Governor Oyebanji has governed with integrity, competence, and compassion. In just over two years in office, his administration has had tangible impacts in key areas that are the pillars of his administration”.

    Also speaking, the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye commended the Governor for his exceptional leadership and the tangible development his administration has brought to every corner of the state.

    In a resolute declaration, the Speaker vowed that no individual or group would be allowed to disrupt the pace of development in the state, stressing the importance of unity and collective efforts in sustaining the gains achieved under the Oyebanji led-administration.

    Responding on behalf of the Governor, the Special Adviser on Political Matters and inter-party affairs, Chief Jide Awe, expressed his gratitude to the leaders and stakeholders for the overwhelming support and endorsement, describing their confidence in the Governor’s leadership as a humble reminder of the collective responsibility to serve the people of the state.

    While assuring them that his government remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy to the people, the Governor said every decision and project undertaken by his government  has been guided by the overreaching goal of improving the quality of life for all citizens.

    Political pundits believe that Governor Oyebanji’s bid for a second term will be a test of his leadership, stewardship as well as the trust he has built among Ekiti people. Can Oyebanji ride on the back of these stakeholders to secure another term in 2026 ? Can he sustain the tempo of achievements? Will he break the one term jinx? Or will history will repeat itself ? Only time will tell.

  • ‘No vacancy in Ekiti Govt House till 2030’

    ‘No vacancy in Ekiti Govt House till 2030’

    Retirees under the auspices of Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Ekiti State chapter, have said there is no vacancy in the Government House till 2030.

    The pensioners, who declared support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s re-election, called on governorship aspirants jostling for the plum seat to shelve their ambition and join hands with the governor for the state’s progress.

    Speaking in Ado-Ekiti yesterday during a programme organised to endorse Governor Oyebanji for re-election, the

    NUP Chairman, Ekiti chapter, Comr. Tope Popoola, said the governor was doing creditably well and there was no need to prevent him from taking Ekiti to higher pedestal.

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    Popoola, who lauded the governor for his promise-keeping spirit and inclusive governance, said Ekiti people had no regret in entrusting him with their mandate during the 2022 governorship election.

    He added that Oyebanji had brought a new lease of life to all segments in the state, noting that the pensioners have never had it so good, especially in terms of welfare package, pension and gratuity.

    He said the record of the governor on pensioners’ welfare was unprecedented in the history of Ekiti, hence, their support for his re-election.

    He highlighted Oyebanji’s achievements, including appointment of special adviser on pension matter, regular payments of pension, liquidation of inherited gratuity and payment of N10,000 palliatives to members.

    ‘’This endorsement is total. All members collectively agreed to endorse the best governor in Nigeria, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, because he initiated regular payments of monthly pension, gradual liquidation of the inherited gratuities, payment of pension arrears and payment of N10,000 palliatives fund to our members.

    “The governor’s personal donation of a sum of N15million towards our guest house project, appointment of advisor on pension matters, which is the first of its kind in Nigeria, are areas where our lives have been touched directly by this governor. We are happy that you made promises and fulfilled them.

    “While thanking you for all that you have been doing for the pensioners to enhance our welfare, we have come with one voice to adopt you and reciprocate your giant strides with unflinching support during the next elections.”

    The NUP National Vice-President, Com. Ayo Kumapayi, commended Oyebanji for restoring the respect and dignity of the pensioners in the state and making them credit worthy to be able to participate in economic activities.

    “I can remember a time in this state, our members were so poor that we became subjects of ridicule in the market. But today, Oyebanji has reversed this trend and restored our respect and dignity. We now go to market and buy whatever we need. God bless our governor,” he said.

    Responding, Oyebanji praised the pensioners for their unflinching support, saying their full backing further lent credence to the fact that his administration had not disappointed the populace.

    Oyebanji, represented by his deputy, Chief Monisade Afuye, assured pensioners that their well-being was a priority, promising to continue addressing challenges faced by the senior citizens.