Ekiti Political Shake-up: Governor Oyebanji's Return Sparks New Demands
Ekiti State's governorship election saw Biodun Oyebanji of APC declared winner, though PDP's Dr. Wole Oluyede initially rejected the results citing electoral compromises. In a notable post-election meeting, Oluyede requested the release of his arrested supporters from Governor Oyebanji. Concurrently, Oyebanji received his certificate of return from INEC, solidifying his victory.
Following the keenly contested Ekiti State governorship election, Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the flagbearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC), emerged victorious, securing 319,224 votes. His closest rival, Dr. Wole Oluyede of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), garnered 40,543 votes, while Ambassador Dare Bejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) came in third with 12,872 votes. Despite the official declaration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Dr. Wole Oluyede initially rejected the outcome, citing a systemic compromise of the electoral process that included technical failures and alleged financial inducement.
In a surprising post-election development, Governor Biodun Oyebanji visited Dr. Wole Oluyede at his residence in Ikere-Ekiti. During their meeting, Oluyede addressed journalists in Ado-Ekiti, revealing the singular request he made of the newly elected governor. Oluyede raised concerns about reports of his supporters being arrested or harassed, stating that it was the only request he presented to Governor Oyebanji. The governor, in response, claimed to be unaware of these incidents but gave a firm commitment to investigate the actions of the security agencies and assured Oluyede that steps were already being taken to address these concerns. Oluyede emphasized the importance of individuals being allowed to follow their convictions for democracy to thrive, asserting that he would readily accept an outcome from a free, fair, and credible contest but felt compelled to confront realities if there was widespread negligence, misconduct, intimidation, or disregard for established electoral procedures.
Dr. Oluyede also clarified his political stance, affirming his commitment to principles, accountability, and the continuous improvement of democracy, stating that he is not leaving politics and holds no personal conflict with Governor Oyebanji. He underscored that politics should not be viewed as warfare. Meanwhile, Governor Biodun Oyebanji officially received his certificate of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Ado-Ekiti. The certificate was presented by Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner, who represented INEC Chairman Prof Joseph Amupitan. Dr. Omoseyindemi congratulated Governor Oyebanji on his re-election and commended the people of Ekiti State for their peaceful conduct throughout the electoral process, highlighting that the successful election reflected the commitment of INEC and other stakeholders to strengthening democratic governance. She further urged all political actors to continue upholding democratic values. The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including party leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, and supporters of the governor, marking a significant step in the state's political transition.