Only Oyebanji Can Secure APC’s Future in Ekiti — OSV Tells Party EXCO.

Only Oyebanji Can Secure APC’s Future in Ekiti — OSV Tells Party EXCO.

A leading grassroots political movement in Ekiti State, the Oyebanji Street Vanguard (OSV), has appealed to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across all levels in the state to retain Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji as the party’s flag bearer for the 2026 governorship election, describing him as "the only candidate with the right blend of experience, competence, and political capacity to lead Ekiti into the future."

In an open letter issued on Wednesday, and addressed to all APC State, Local Government, and Ward Executive Council members, the group warned against altering the current political structure, stressing that “no good coach changes a winning team without paying a heavy price.”

The letter, signed by HC Ade, Convener of OSV, came ahead of the APC primary election scheduled to take place in a few weeks.

“We are writing this passionate appeal to remind you that the progress and future of our dear state must remain a top priority. As the party prepares to choose its flag bearer, it is important to consider competence, proven capacity, democratic track record, and the courage to lead,” the group stated.

According to OSV, Governor Oyebanji has continued the legacy of good governance in Ekiti, and his leadership represents stability and continuity at a time when the party needs to consolidate gains and prepare for a landslide re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in the 2027 presidential election.

The group also highlighted that virtually all notable progressive political leaders in Ekiti State have thrown their weight behind the continuity agenda. These include Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Engr. Segun Oni, all past deputy governors, current and former National Assembly members, and both former and serving members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly.

 “These leaders have all shown a clear preference for continuity to deepen our democratic culture. Ignoring their collective stance could lead to serious consequences for the party and the state,” the letter read.

The group went on to outline five critical implications of disregarding the calls for continuity under Governor Oyebanji:

1. Discontinuity and disconnection in good governance and the smooth execution of ongoing projects.

2. Immediate political retirement of key national and state-level political leaders whose experience is still vital to the party’s future.

3. Possible overhaul of the existing APC executive structure from state to ward level.

4. Risk of internal disarray within the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections.

5. A major betrayal of trust reposed in the party by the National Working Committee (NWC) and the progressive political bloc in the South-West.

The group described Governor Oyebanji as the only aspirant with "traceable democratic values, leadership stability, and the capacity to unite and energize the APC across the 16 local government areas of the state."

 “There is only one person that meets the standard required to fly the flag of our great party in 2026. That person is the incumbent Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. He has what it takes to continue the good work, keep the party strong, and lead us into another victorious presidential election in 2027 under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,” the letter added.

In its final remarks, OSV cautioned that political miscalculations at this critical time could cost the party dearly.

 “No wise coach changes a winning team. Any attempt to do so will attract a heavy fine of defeat. Let us stay focused, united, and loyal to the path of continuity,” HC Ade concluded.