Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has formally notified the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) of his intention to seek re-election in the 2026 governorship election.
The declaration was made during a meeting with party leaders and stakeholders held at the APC State Secretariat in Ado Ekiti on Monday. Governor Oyebanji explained that the decision followed months of widespread consultation and overwhelming encouragement from traditional rulers, civil servants, professionals, artisans, youths, women groups, transport unions, and political leaders across party lines.
“Let me start by appreciating you,” the Governor began, addressing party leaders. “Thank you for your support, endurance, and for holding the party together. 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.”
The Governor took time to reaffirm the unity within the APC in Ekiti State and dispelled any insinuations of a rift within the party's leadership structure.
“There is no crisis in the leadership of APC,” he said. “Our topmost leader is former Governor Niyi Adebayo, followed by former Governor Kayode Fayemi. There is no crisis in the leadership.”
With clarity and confidence, he made his official move: “I have listened to you, and I am formally informing the party that I will run for second term. So, I plead for your support and prayers. And by His grace, I will continue to respect you.”
The hall erupted into thunderous applause and cheers, as party members welcomed the declaration with visible excitement.
The Governor further emphasized his commitment to party discipline and structure.
“In Ekiti APC, the hierarchy remains such that Otunba Niyi Adebayo is at the helm, followed by Dr. Kayode Fayemi, while I am next on the ladder. You can see that I don’t call meetings of the party to Ikogosi, my country home. Instead, we either meet at Iyin, the country home of Otunba Adebayo, or Isan, the country home of Dr. Fayemi. Maybe I’ll start holding party meetings at Ikogosi when I eventually vacate office, but not now, when I still have those two as my leaders.”
Earlier in the meeting, the Acting Chairman of APC in Ekiti, Barrister Sola Elesin, commended Governor Oyebanji for his leadership style, describing him as a unifier and a bridge builder.
“Governor Oyebanji’s humility, accessibility, and performance in office have endeared him to party members, Ekiti leaders, and the general public,” Elesin said. “The peaceful atmosphere in the party today is a direct result of his inclusive style and respect for party structure. The party is stronger and more united under his watch.”
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; and Special Adviser on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe, among other key stakeholders.
As Governor Oyebanji looks ahead to 2026, he reaffirmed his loyalty to the party, his commitment to the people of Ekiti, and his dedication to good governance. He also extended gratitude to President Tinubu for his steady support for Ekiti State and for policies that are already yielding tangible results across the country.
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