Oyebanji Declares Second-Term Bid, Cites Broad Support Across Ekiti

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has formally declared his intention to seek a second term in office, buoyed by what he described as overwhelming endorsements from stakeholders and citizens across the state.

The declaration was made on Monday during a strategic engagement with members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Central Working Committee at the party’s secretariat in Ado-Ekiti.

Governor Oyebanji said the decision to run again was not taken lightly but was driven by the desire to build on the achievements of his first term and deepen the delivery of good governance to the people of Ekiti State.

According to him, the wave of support from traditional rulers, professional bodies, civil servants, youth groups, market women, artisans, transport unions, and leaders across party lines made it clear that the people were ready for continuity.

“After extensive consultations and heartfelt encouragement from our people across all strata, I am convinced that the journey we started together must continue.

This declaration is a product of the collective will of Ekiti people who have encouraged me to stay the course,” the governor stated.

He noted that his administration had worked tirelessly over the past few years to reposition the state through policy reforms, infrastructure development, economic empowerment, and inclusive governance. Oyebanji highlighted major projects executed under his administration, including road construction, revitalization of the health and education sectors, rural electrification, and youth employment initiatives.

“I am not here today to make promises; I am here to seek your mandate again so we can deepen the gains we have made. Our people deserve continuity, stability, and development that will not be truncated by political disruption. We must finish what we have started together,” he said.

Governor Oyebanji also took time to appreciate the APC leadership at both the state and national levels for their support, loyalty, and resilience, acknowledging their role in sustaining party unity and stability.

“Let me start by appreciating you

thank you for your support, your endurance, and for holding the party firm in Ekiti. On behalf of myself, the Deputy Governor, and other political office holders, we are deeply grateful. I also want to thank you on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the overwhelming endorsement,” he said.

Amid speculation of internal tensions within the APC, Oyebanji reaffirmed that the party remains a united and indivisible political force in Ekiti. He dismissed rumours of factionalism, insisting that all party stakeholders were aligned in their shared commitment to progress and victory in the forthcoming governorship election.

“The APC in Ekiti is one united family. We may have different opinions sometimes, but we are united in purpose. There is no crisis in our party, and I am proud of the cohesion and discipline within our ranks,” the governor said.

Party leaders and stakeholders who attended the declaration reportedly pledged their full support for Oyebanji’s re-election bid, describing his first term as a model of inclusive governance, prudent management of resources, and grassroots development.

As the 2026 governorship election draws nearer, Governor Oyebanji’s formal declaration is expected to set the tone for political activities in Ekiti State, with many observers viewing his candidacy as a strong contender for continuity in leadership.