Ekiti Governor Oyebanji Makes History, Clinches Second Term with Presidential Congratulations

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has achieved a significant milestone, securing re-election as the governor of Ekiti State. This victory, declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the early hours of Sunday in Ado Ekiti, makes Mr. Oyebanji the first governor in Ekiti State's history to win two consecutive governorship elections since the state's creation in 1996. The returning officer, Professor Adenike Oladiji, Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, confirmed the results, stating that Oyebanji had satisfied the requirements of the law and was duly returned elected.

The election results demonstrated a clear mandate for Governor Oyebanji. He polled an impressive 319,224 votes, significantly outperforming his closest rival, Oluwole Oluyede of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who secured 40,543 votes. Dare Bejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) came in third with 12,872 votes. Oyebanji's dominance was evident across the state, as he won in all 16 local government areas, achieving a statewide sweep. According to INEC, 384,940 voters were accredited for the election, resulting in 375,777 valid votes. A total of 6,332 votes were rejected, bringing the total votes cast to 382,109.

Following the declaration, President Bola Tinubu extended his congratulations to Governor Biodun Oyebanji on his resounding victory. In a statement issued by his special adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President also commended the people of Ekiti for their peaceful and orderly conduct throughout the election. President Tinubu lauded the security agencies for their efforts in maintaining law and order, and urged INEC to continue its commitment to conducting credible elections, specifically looking ahead to the Osun governorship poll and the 2027 general election.

President Tinubu emphasized that Oyebanji’s victory reflects public confidence in his administration and a strong support for continuity and stability in the state. He highlighted the significant progress recorded during Governor Oyebanji’s first term in crucial areas such as infrastructure development, agriculture, youth employment initiatives, education, healthcare, and rural development, noting these achievements were part of the 'BAO agenda'. The President further advised Governor Oyebanji to remain magnanimous in his victory and ensure an inclusive government, carrying all segments of the Ekiti people along as he consolidates his achievements in the next four years. He also called upon other candidates who participated in the election to support the governor in moving the state forward, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to partnering with Ekiti State to deliver development programmes and advance the Renewed Hope Agenda. The President concluded by praying for wisdom, strength, and good health for Oyebanji as he begins his new term in office.

In response to his re-election, Governor Oyebanji expressed deep gratitude to the voters, describing the outcome as a strong endorsement of his administration. He acknowledged the humbling scale of his victory, particularly securing a clean sweep across all 16 local government areas and approximately 85 percent of the popular vote, which he termed a