EKITI 2026: OYEBANJI'S RE-ELECTION ALREADY WON, SAYS APC NATIONAL CHAIRMAN YILWATDA, GOVERNORS.

EKITI 2026: OYEBANJI'S RE-ELECTION ALREADY WON, SAYS APC NATIONAL CHAIRMAN YILWATDA, GOVERNORS.

 

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, has expressed confidence that the re-election of Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji is a done deal on the strength of his record of performance and the massive support he enjoys from the people of the state.

 

The APC National Chairman emphasized that the national leadership of the party is proud of what Governor Oyebanji has done and achieved in three and a half years in office and would give him an unflinching support to win another term in office for the benefit of Ekiti people and for continuity of good governance being enjoyed in the state.

 

Prof Yilwatda, who spoke at the Ekiti State APC/BAO Governorship Campaign Flag-Off that was attended by a mammoth crowd at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado Ekiti, the state capital on Monday, said other political parties and their governorship candidates are no match for the ruling party and Governor Oyebanji who are poised to record an unprecedented victory at the election scheduled for June 20.

 

The National Chairman's confidence of victory for Governor Oyebanji was also echoed by the Progressives Governors' Forum (PGF), a body of governors elected on the platform of the party led by Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma and the National Campaign Council led by Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani.

All former Ekiti State governors, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Chief Ayodele Fayose, Chief Segun Oni and Dr Kayode Fayemi also threw their weight behind the re-election of Governor Oyebanji urging the people of the state to massively cast their votes for him and his Deputy, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye for the good works to continue.

 

Apparently impressed by the track record of Governor Oyebanji, the APC National Chairman, Prof Yilwatda requested Governor Oyebanji , also known as BAO to come out and "take a bow" before the people of Ekiti State on each sector where he had made impact on governance, turning around the fortunes of the state and serving as a unifier and rallying point for all people in the state irrespective of their ethnic, cultural, religious and political affiliations.

 

Prof Yilwatda said: "For bringing all the people of the state together, I want you Mr Governor to take a bow. For bringing people of different ethnic groups in Ekiti like Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Ebira, Urhobo and other ethnic nationalities and ensuring unity in your state, please take a bow.

 

"For building roads, bridges, hospitals, health centres, schools and other major infrastructures across the state, take a bow. In fact, BAO (Oyebanji) supports agriculture and his support for agriculture makes it more easy for Ekiti people to be pounding yam and eating pounded yam and this has guaranteed food security, take a bow.

 

"Ekiti is one of the most secure states in Nigeria. BAO works very hard to ensure security of lives and property, take a bow. On behalf of the National Working Committee and APC members nationwide, we stand with you today to say that this election is already won because all other parties na so-so yeye, all other candidates na so-so yeye.

 

"Prepare pounded yam for your swearing-in because the election is already won. Ekiti people on election day, wear your canvass (trainers), wear your jeans go out and vote for BAO."

 

Speaking for the governors, the Chairman of APC Governors' Forum, Governor Hope Uzodinma, said the fact that the then fragmented Ekiti is now solidly united, was suffice for Oyebanji to be reelected, assuring that the governor won't disappoint in terms of delivery and display of humility.

 

"If you vote for Governor Oyebanji, you have voted for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He is addressing the crises of food insecurity, infrastructure deficit, unemployment, insecurity and others. Vote for him, he won't let you down".

 

In his address, Kaduna State Governor and Chairman, APC National Campaign Committee for Ekiti election, Senator Uba Sani, was upbeat that the party will triumph in the governorship poll on the strength of Oyebanji's exhilarating performance and acceptability across the board.

 

Sani described Ekiti as a state of high intellectual hub and integrity, who requires being governed by people with cognitive power and high  mental ability to be able to sail the ship to a safe shore, assuring that the coming election is not going to be personality clashes.

 

The Kaduna governor said he was proud to fraternise with Oyebanji and loudly campaign for his reelection,  having constructed over 350 kilometres of roads across the 16 local governments, while embarking on series of human-friendly programmes to build the enormous resources available to Ekiti .

 

The APC governor, who described the Oyebanji as one of the best governors in the country, said he was happy at Oyebanji’s record of achievements especialy the remodeling of all the primary healthcare centres and public schools in the state, thereby making lives more rewarding for the people.

 

"This is the time to move forward, not to move backward. Vote for continuity, vote for prosperity, vote for stability and development. Let your vote resonate round the country. We will engage every community, every individual, listen to them and mobilise for victory".

 

In hi speech, Oyebanji who told the cheering crowd that he has fulfilled the social contract he signed with the people in 2022, praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for exhibiting  special interest for the development of the state and its people .

 

In his short speech, Oyebanji said: "We were here in 2022 to sign a contract with you. We thank God that we have been able to fulfil all these contracts. But all these were made possible because President Tinubu takes special interest in this state.

 

"In the 29 years of Ekiti creation, no President  has been fair to Ekiti like President  Tinubu. He reconstructed Ado-Akure road, Ado-Ifaki road and the notorious Ado-Aramoko road had been awarded for reconstruction among other projects.

 

"The way to repay him is to come out on June 20 and  test the microphone by giving us here in Ekiti a minimum of 500,000 votes, so that the good jobs we are doing can continue".

 

The Chairman of the 2026 Ekiti Campaign Council and the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, said Oyebanji has been able to make remarkable difference in the lives of the people, because he perfectly understands the language of development.

 

Bamidele, who aptly branded Oyebanji as a round peg in a round hole, assured Ekiti populace that the election will be based on constructive and intellectual engagements, not the the one that will be replete with hate speeches and morbid politicking. 

 

"We have been able to progress as a people because we have a governor who understands the language of development. A round peg, in a round hole. We are proud of him. He is a unifier. A humble leader who can make us better if given the opportunity".

 

Other dignitaries at the event were: Ekiti State First Lady, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, National Vice Chairman of the APC, Southwest, Isaac Kekemeke, Director General, Ekiti State Governorship Campaign Council, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, former Governors Kayode Fayemi, Ayo Fayose, Otunba Niyi Adebayo and Segun Oni, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Hon Femi Bamisile, Senator Ayo Arise, Senator Dayo Adeyeye, Hon Oyetunde Ojo, members of the National and State Assemblies and other high profile APC members.

Historic Unity at Ekiti Parapo Pavilion: Flag-Off Re- Election Campaign for Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

Historic Unity at Ekiti Parapo Pavilion: Flag-Off  Re- Election Campaign for Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

By: Asubiojo G. O

On Monday,  Governor Biodun Oyebanji received a resounding endorsement  at the campaign flag off of his second term in office, sequence on his emergence as the consensus candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary for the forthcoming gubernatorial election scheduled for June 20, marking what many observers described as an unprecedented milestone in the political history of Ekiti State, fondly known as the Fountain of Knowledge.

At the iconic Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, voices of unity echoed loudly as party faithful, stakeholders, and supporters gathered in large numbers to officially flag off the campaign of what many described as the people’s “Ultimate Single Choice”—a movement inspired by performance, sustained by trust, and strengthened by collective belief in continuity.

The atmosphere was electrifying as prominent leaders of the All Progressives Congress assembled from every corner of Ekiti State,, distinguished Senators, Honourable Members of the House of Representatives, respected former governors, (led by governor Hope Uzodimma, the chairman of progressive Governors  Forum)and notable party stalwarts were all in attendance.

Among those who spoke glowingly about Governor Oyebanji’s visible achievements was the immediate past governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, who emphasized that Governor Oyebanji “has performed creditably well,” noting that the presence of both former and serving governors was a testament to the governor’s commitment to continuity and progress. He further expressed appreciation for the governor’s leadership and assured him of continued support.

Similarly, Uba Sani, Governor of Kaduna State, reinforced the sentiments expressed, stating that the gathering was sending a clear message nationwide that Ekiti State remained united and ready for the forthcoming election.

Adding his voice, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, in his charismatic and visionary remarks, described Biodun Oyebanji as a leader who believes strongly in character, humility, and people-centered governance.

The Ekiti State APC Chairman, Sola Eleshin, in a witty but impactful address, noted that the goodwill generated by Governor Oyebanji’s leadership had attracted widespread support from both stakeholders and the masses, thereby reinforcing his emergence as the unrivalled “Single Choice.”

 Eminent personalities , alongside party leaders and stakeholders drawn from across Ekiti State and beyond.

Also present in high spirits were Local Government Chairmen from across the state, reflecting the depth of grassroots support.

 Notably, the Chairman of Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government, Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga, joined his fellow executive chairmen in expressing joy, unity, and pride that mirrored the collective mood of the gathering.

In his remarks, Honourable Oluwatuyi Oluwagbenga captured the essence of the historic moment when he declared:

“This gathering represents overwhelming acceptance, organic support, and visible momentum that reinforces one truth—that this journey is not accidental; it is deliberate, intentional, and deeply rooted in impact.”

Indeed, the visible strides and people-centered achievements of Biodun Oyebanji continue to resonate across communities, strengthening confidence in leadership that listens, performs, and delivers.

This gathering was more than a political event—it was a declaration of unity, a celebration of continuity, and a bold affirmation of collective trust.

Series of workers, market and students Unions,were in attendance, displaying the positive landmark reference point advancements the governor has made, since inception, the BAO family and the BAO Club, prominent matured canvassing group in the LG continue to showcase their canvassing prowess,as been their ultimate strides, Mrs Titilayo Toba-Ojo,an Emeritus permanent secretary, prince Aladesanmi Aladesuyi, and visible prominent heavyweights in the LG system were not left out.

As history continues to unfold, one message remains clear: When people stand together in purpose, progress becomes inevitable, and the future grows brighter for generations yet unborn.

#UltimateSingleChoice

#BackToBack

Ijomu Community Rejects Alleged Chieftaincy Imposition, Passes Vote of Confidence in High Chief Ojomu.

Ijomu Community Rejects Alleged Chieftaincy Imposition, Passes Vote of Confidence in High Chief Ojomu.

The Ijomu community in Igbemo-Ekiti, Ekiti State, has expressed strong dissatisfaction over the alleged imposition of chiefs upon the quarter without its consent, describing the move as unacceptable and a threat to communal peace.

At its bi-monthly meeting held on April 26, 2026, at the Ojomu Courtyard, the community unanimously passed a vote of confidence in its traditional leader, High Chief Ojo Adedayo Ojomu, pledging unwavering support for his leadership amid ongoing chieftaincy disputes.

The meeting, attended by elders, youths, and other stakeholders, witnessed strong reactions as members condemned what they described as repeated attempts by the Onigbemo of Igbemo-Ekiti, Oba Adewumi Daramola, to appoint chiefs without due consultation.

Addressing the gathering, High Chief Ojomu stated that his actions regarding chieftaincy matters were based on extensive consultations and a careful consideration of the community’s development needs. He called on indigenes, particularly those in the diaspora, to remain committed to the growth of Ijomu and to maintain a strong connection with their roots.

He emphasized the need for unity and collective responsibility, urging members at home and abroad to contribute meaningfully to the progress and advancement of the community. Several community leaders, in separate remarks, commended Ojomu’s efforts and described his interventions as timely. They reaffirmed their support and encouraged him to remain resolute.

The community also reaffirmed the appointment of Mr. Adeniyi Kehinde (Financial Secretary of the Ijomu Development Council) as the High Chief Aro-elect, and Mr. Ibikunle Ezekiel (Secretary General of the council) as the Chief Egbedi-elect. Both appointments, according to the community, were duly endorsed by their respective families and widely accepted by elders, women, and youths, pending formal installation by the Onigbemo.

However, the community issued a warning to certain families—including the Ogunmilade (Bada) and Ajisafe (Oloode) families, alongside their associates against actions capable of inciting crisis. They urged these groups instead to support ongoing efforts to promote peace and unity.

Furthermore, the community called on the public to disregard rumors surrounding the Egbedi chieftaincy, noting that legal steps would be taken to address any contrary claims. It added that peace would be maintained pending court decisions regarding the Aro chieftaincy matter.

New Appointments and Community Projects

In a related development, several new appointments to the National Executive Council of the Ijomu Development Council were announced:

Chief Mrs. Akinnibosun Lucia: Vice President

Aare Adebayo Ibijemilusi: Organising Secretary

Pa Aladesanmi Philip: Chairman, Elders Council Forum

Mr. Sunday Olarotimi: Secretary, Elders Council Forum

Aare Muyiwa Ojo (Agali): Youth Leader

Alabi Adesanmi: Youth Council Secretary

Ajijola Adewale Emmanuel: Public Relations Officer

Mr. Adeniyi Ige Kehinde: Chairman, Ijomu Diaspora

Hon. Adejoro John Ibijemilusi: Secretary, Ijomu Diaspora

Mr. Awolusi Oluwarotimi Festus: Public Relations Officer, Ijomu Diaspora

The community concluded by expressing its readiness for the 2026 Airegbe Mini Project commissioning, reaffirming a collective commitment to reconciliation, unity, and sustainable development for all Ijomu indigenes at home and abroad and appointed Mr.Muyiwa Ojo(Agali) Youth Leader as the Chairman,2026 Airegbe Festival Committee and Mr.Bakinde Femi as Secretary of the Airegbe festival Committee.

Engr.Lucas Ibijemilusi had been appointed as Chief Press Secretary to High Chief Ojo Adedayo Ojomu from immediate effects.

Oyebanji’s Excellent Performance Guarantees his Re-Election, Says Kaduna Gov.

Oyebanji’s Excellent Performance Guarantees his Re-Election, Says Kaduna Gov.

Kaduna State Governor and National Chairman, Ekiti State Governorship Election Campaign Council, Senator Uba Sani has said that his Ekiti State counterpart, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has already earned victory ahead of the June 20 governorship election through his outstanding performance and people-oriented policies and programs.

Governor Sani stated this on Sunday evening at the Ado- Ekiti Airport upon his arrival in the state ahead of the official flag-off of the All Progressive Congress (APC) governorship campaign. 

He was received by the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Secretory, to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro, Chief of Staff, Mr Niyi Adebayo and Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon Taiwo Olatunbosun, Commissioner for Health, Dr Oyebanji Filani, Commissioner for Wealth Creation, Otunba Kayode Fasae, Special Adviser on Higher Education, Prof Akeem Azeez, other top government officials.

Speaking with Journalists shortly after his arrival, Governor Uba expressed confidence in the Governor Oyebanji’s chances, citing the Ekiti Governor’s impressive strides in infrastructure, education, youth empowerment and human capital development. He stated further that the BAO administration’s record of performance would translate into a decisive mandate at the poll scheduled for June 2026.

Describing Governor Oyebanji as a committed leader who has demonstrated capacity, humility and inclusiveness in governance, Senator Uba noted that the Governor’s achievements in key sectors have translated into visible development and widespread acceptance among Ekiti people

Governor Sani said “My dear brother, Governor  Oyebanji has done extremely well, and for me, I'm just here to support what he has done and I have no doubt in my mind that Ekiti people have seen everything, from education, he has done extremely well, looking at infrastructure, socio-economic, empowerment of youths, we have seen what he has done, he has done very well and I have no doubt in my mind that this election, the people of Ekiti will support him for continuity which is very important, this election is just a formality”.

The Kaduna State Governor further noted that Ekiti governorship election would serve as a critical political barometer for the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general election. According to him, the outcome of the poll will to reflect the strength and acceptability of the ruling party’s leadership under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Governor Sani was received at the Government House Governor Oyebanji, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele and members of the Ekiti State Caucus of the National Assembly.

EKITI: THE SEASON OF LIES AND HALF-TRUTHS.

EKITI: THE SEASON OF LIES AND HALF-TRUTHS.

By Segun Dipe.

(Here is a remixed, updated, version) 

Campaign season is back in Ekiti. And with it comes the usual fog.  

Promises will fly. Counter-promises will land. In between, half-truths will multiply faster than facts. This is the season when some aspirants believe the road to the Government House runs through the gutter.  

Expect the old playbook. One man will announce himself as his party’s “anointed” before the party itself speaks. Another will rehearse falsehoods about rivals until repetition feels like evidence. The names of sitting leaders, especially the governor, will be dipped in mud and hung out to dry — all for a sliver of advantage.

The usual characters will return on schedule. They’ll commission projects they never touched, parade degrees they never earned, and claim street credibility they never built. Online, rented crowds will cheer on cue. Bought followers will swear they saw miracles. In that noise, truth becomes the first casualty.

This is why vigilance is not optional. Don’t swallow every flyer. Don’t retweet every clip. Ask the question: Where is the proof?_ Check the record. Match the mouth with the mandate. Be suspicious of anyone whose strategy is to split Ekiti into camps and then claim to lead it. Division is the cheapest campaign tool, and the most expensive to repair.

Ekiti has paid for lies before. We paid with abandoned projects. We paid with four-year regressions. We paid with governors who campaigned in poetry and governed in prose. We cannot afford that tax again.

So let’s name things. Call out the lie. Reject the manufactured narrative. Demand the receipt. Our state does not need peddlers of false hope. It needs carriers of real weight.

And what is real the weight?

1. Integrity that can be audited: If you can’t show how you lived yesterday, you can’t be trusted with our tomorrow.  

2. A record that can be touched: Not “I will build,” but “I have built.” Not “I will pay,” but “I paid.”  

3. Fairness without a calculator: Leaders who see different communities with the same eye, who don’t govern by senatorial payback.  

4. Unity as method, not slogan: Anyone can preach peace. Look for the one who kept a fractured party, and a fractious state, from cracking.  

5. A vision with a price tag: “Ekiti will be great” is not a plan. “130MW, township roads in all 16 LGAs, 5,000 more youths in Agric by 2027” is a plan.

This season, let’s retire empty noise. Let’s audit, not applaud. Let’s choose builders over blowhards, doers over dubbers.  

Ekiti deserves leaders who move us forward, not those who hold us hostage to the past or sell us fiction about the future.

Truth is the only thing that sets a state free. But first, we must chase it, catch it, and refuse to let it go.

Dipe writes from Ado-Ekiti.

Adaramodu Deepens Education Drive, Sponsors 47 Ekiti South Students.

Adaramodu Deepens Education Drive, Sponsors 47 Ekiti South Students.

Senator representing Ekiti South Senatorial District and Senate Spokesman, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, has once again demonstrated purposeful and people-centred leadership by sponsoring 47 students on scholarship across the district.

The initiative underscores his unwavering commitment to education, youth empowerment and sustainable human capital development, pillars that remain essential to the growth of any progressive society.

At a time when many families are faced with economic realities, the senator’s intervention stands as a beacon of responsive governance, easing financial burdens while opening doors of opportunity for the next generation of leaders in Ekiti South.

In a thriving democracy, true representation is measured not by rhetoric but by tangible impact. This scholarship scheme reflects the ideals of participatory governance, equity and inclusive development, values that strengthen public trust and deepen democratic dividends.

Stakeholders across the senatorial district have continued to commend the lawmaker’s visionary approach, describing it as a strategic investment in the future and a clear demonstration of leadership that listens, acts and delivers.

As the journey of service continues, many constituents have expressed confidence in Senator Adaramodu’s capacity to consolidate on these gains, urging sustained support for his leadership in order to advance continuity, stability and greater development across Ekiti South.

Indeed, for many, this is the hallmark of a representative who has earned the people’s trust through performance, a leader whose commitment to service positions him as a worthy candidate for continued stewardship in the years ahead.

EKITI GEARS UP FOR MASSIVE TURNOUT AS APC FLAGS OFF BAO CAMPAIGN.

EKITI GEARS UP FOR MASSIVE TURNOUT AS APC FLAGS OFF BAO CAMPAIGN.

 ...Governors, NASS leaders, party chiefs storm Ado-Ekiti for rollout.

All roads lead to Ado-Ekiti on Monday, April 27, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) formally flags off the re-election campaign of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) ahead of the June 20 governorship election.

The event, scheduled for 10:00 a.m. at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, is expected to draw one of the largest political gatherings in the state in recent years, with party leaders and supporters converging from across the country.

Leading the APC national delegation is the party’s National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, alongside members of the National Working Committee. Serving APC governors from across the six geopolitical zones, led by the Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum, are also expected to attend.

Principal officers of the National Assembly, including senators and members of the House of Representatives from Ekiti and beyond, have confirmed their participation.

Also expected are former governors of Ekiti State, party elders, women and youth leaders, as well as business and community figures from all 16 local government areas. Members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, the state’s National Assembly caucus, and various support groups have already begun mobilising for the event.

The flag-off as more than a rally, but a demonstration of unity and confidence in the Oyebanji administration, coming after months of endorsements and what supporters say is visible progress across key sectors.

The APC says adequate security and traffic arrangements have been put in place the event, which will be broadcast live on NTA, EKTV and major FM stations, and streamed across BAO 2026 social media platforms.

“Monday is not just about the flag-off; it is a moment for Ekiti people to show their support and appreciation,” said the campaign Director-General, Senator Cyril Fasuyi.