A Dangerous Game of Falsehood in Ekiti Politics: The Evil Plot to Deceive the Presidency.

A Dangerous Game of Falsehood in Ekiti Politics: The Evil Plot to Deceive the Presidency.

By Idowu Ephraim Faleye

 

The political space in Nigeria has always been full of twists and turns, but when ambition becomes so blinding that it resorts to outright falsehood, then there’s a serious problem. In recent days, a disturbing report has been making the rounds—crafted as “Breaking News” and presented with such boldness that one might mistake it for credible journalism. The headline screams: “Fayemi Sets To Lead Ekiti Governor, Oyebanji, Speaker, Other Top Loyalists To ADC.”

At first glance, some may believe the report, especially given the way it names names and strategically attempts to sound like an exclusive leak. But when we look beyond the surface, when we weigh the facts against the fiction, and when we measure the motive behind such propaganda, it becomes clear that this is not news—it is a desperate fabrication by an aspirant seeking to destroy others in his own political party just to rise above them. And that’s not only shameful, it is dangerous.

The real aim of the lie is simple—to sow distrust by painting the sitting governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, and his loyal team as traitors who are about to jump ship to an opposition party. The intent is to make people believe that Oyebanji and his group can no longer be trusted. And once that seed of doubt is sown, the liar hopes to be seen as the "loyal one," the better option, the safer alternative to hand power to.

But politics is not just about strategy—it is about character. It is about truth, integrity, and service. And this desperate tactic reveals a deep moral flaw in the aspirant behind the lie. If your only route to power is by dragging your fellow party members in the mud, spreading falsehoods to create division, and misleading people with fake news, then you have already failed the leadership test before the race even begins.

Let’s be clear: neither Governor Biodun Oyebanji nor any of the respected names mentioned in that report—Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Rt. Hon. Aribasoye, Hon. Hakeem Jamiu, Hon. Biodun Omoleye, Hon. Sunday Adunmo, Prof. Modupe Adelabu, Elder Samuel Abejide, Prof. Adio Folayan, Mr. Dapo Kolawole, Alhaji Dauda Lawal, Mr. Seyi Ayeleso—has had any meeting or plan to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC). There is absolutely no known contact between them and the newly formed political coalition mentioned in the article. These are seasoned political figures with deep-rooted commitments to the All Progressives Congress (APC), and they are working with the governor to build a stronger party in Ekiti and in Nigeria at large.

Governor Oyebanji, in particular, remains one of the most trusted and loyal leaders in the APC family. He has maintained that trust. Those who know him can attest to his unwavering loyalty and humility, even in the face of pressure. If anyone is looking for a governor who understands team spirit and fidelity to the cause of party-building, Oyebanji fits that role without question.

So why this lie? Why now? Because ambition has blinded some to decency. There is a growing pattern where some desperate individuals in politics, rather than work hard to earn credibility, choose instead to drag others down with falsehood. They manufacture stories and bribe online platforms, hoping that their deceit will bear fruit. But lies are fragile. They may fly for a while, but they always crash.

It is one thing to contest for office. It is another thing entirely to do so with dignity. If you claim to be a better alternative to a sitting governor, then come out openly with your ideas, your vision, your plans, your track record. Tell the people and the party what you intend to do differently. Don’t hide behind lies and backdoor manipulation. Don’t make up stories to discredit those who have sacrificed and served. That’s not how progress is built; that’s how trust is destroyed.

There is also a spiritual dimension to this. All religions condemn the act of bearing false witness. In Christianity, it is one of the Ten Commandments—"Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour." In Islam, slander is a grievous sin that draws divine punishment. Even traditional beliefs in our land frown upon false accusation, knowing that such acts can bring curses not only upon the individual but upon their lineage. Politics may be a game of numbers, but the heavens still judge character. And those who trade in lies will eventually be repaid in full.

Politically, this falsehood is not just a slap to Governor Oyebanji and his loyalists. It is an attack on the unity of the APC. Such propaganda, if allowed to grow, can create disaffection within the party, pit members against each other, and hand victory to the opposition on a platter of gold. Unity cannot be built on lies. And no party survives when its strongest assets are being secretly assassinated with words.

Let it be known: the individuals listed in that fabricated report are not defecting to any party. They are not holding meetings with ADC. They are not part of any anti-presidential coalition. They are not backstabbing anyone. Rather, they are standing firm with the APC, working day and night to ensure that the party remains strong in Ekiti and respected nationally. They are builders, not betrayers.

And the governor? He is focused on governance. He is delivering on his promises. He is not distracted by the noise. But even silence has a limit. There comes a time when those who know the truth must speak up—not to defend the guilty, but to protect the innocent. This is one of such times.

We must not allow darkness to cover the light. We must not let ambition kill truth. We must not remain silent while a man of peace and integrity is falsely accused by those who should be his allies. We must call out lies and the liars behind them—not just for the sake of politics, but for the sake of our future.

To party members, this is a time to close ranks. The house must not be divided by the selfishness of one individual who thinks destroying others is the only way to rise. Let’s stand by APC leaders. Let’s defend truth. Let’s protect the integrity of APC political family.

And to the aspirant behind the lies—pause and reflect. Is this really how you want to lead? If you lie to rise, how will you govern with truth? If you betray now, who will trust you later? Power gotten through deception never lasts. You may win a position, but history will not be kind to you.

As the dust settles on this unfortunate drama, may truth prevail. May the innocent be vindicated. And may our politics grow beyond lies, beyond propaganda, beyond selfish ambition. Nigeria deserves better. Ekiti deserves better. The APC deserves better. And we, the people, must insist on better.

Idowu Ephraim Faleye writes from Ado-Ekiti +2348132100608.

Ekiti South APC Leaders Hail Aluko at Stakeholders’ Meeting, Drum Support for BAO, Afuye’s Second Term.

Ekiti South APC Leaders Hail Aluko at Stakeholders’ Meeting, Drum Support for BAO, Afuye’s Second Term.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti South Senatorial District on Monday, July 7, applauded the Chairman of the Ekiti South Senatorial Elders’ Forum, His Excellency, Surveyor Abiodun Aluko, for his unifying leadership and commitment to strengthening the party’s structure across the region.

The stakeholders’ meeting, held at Aluko’s residence in Ado-Ekiti, brought together critical party figures, including the Senatorial Executives, State Executive members from the South Senatorial District, and the six APC Local Government Chairmen in the region. The gathering was aimed at solidifying internal unity and strategizing for the 2026 re-election campaigns of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) and Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Christianah Afuye (MCA).

In his opening address, Surveyor Aluko expressed appreciation to party leaders for the trust bestowed upon him as chairman of the Elders’ Forum.

 “I sincerely appreciate everyone for giving me the opportunity to serve as chairman of the Ekiti South Senatorial Elders’ Forum,” he said.

“This gathering is a testament to our unity and shared commitment to the growth of our party. We must remain focused and united, especially as we prepare to deliver massively for BAO and Chief (Mrs) Afuye in 2026.”

Aluko stressed the importance of party cohesion and emphasized that unity remained the foundation for sustainable governance and electoral success.

Also speaking, the APC Senatorial Chairman, High Chief Akinbobola, commended Aluko for the swift transformation the elders’ forum had witnessed since he assumed leadership.

“Your Excellency, we’ve seen the positive shift in direction since you took over,” Akinbobola said.

“You have restored purpose and coordination within the elders’ forum, and we are proud to stand with you.”

The Ekiti South Senatorial Secretary, Afuye Oluwaseun, described the meeting as a landmark development, noting it was the first of its kind in the senatorial district.

 “This is the first of its kind in this senatorial zone, and I pray this becomes a permanent tradition,” Oluwaseun said.

“We must continue building bridges and supporting one another in the interest of progress.”

The meeting also featured active participation from the six APC Local Government Chairmen from Ekiti South, who jointly commended Aluko’s inclusive style of leadership and pledged unwavering loyalty.

 “Your leadership has reawakened the spirit of unity among us,” one of the chairmen said.

“We’re solidly behind the BAO and MCA continuity project.”

In the same vein, State Executive members from the South Senatorial District showered encomiums on Aluko for the political maturity and wisdom he has continued to display since assuming office.

“You have turned this forum into a strategic political force. We’re proud to work under your leadership,” one of the state executives said.

The meeting also featured serious deliberations on enhancing party unity and mobilizing ahead of the 2026 elections, with a strong focus on grassroots engagement, strategic communication, and statewide coordination.

 “The mission is clear,” a prominent stakeholder concluded.

“Ekiti South is united and fully committed to ensuring the resounding re-election of BAO and Chief (Mrs) Afuye in 2026.”

The Victor We Know, the Olabimtan With Probity He Has a Clean Slate No Corruption Charges Ever Leveled Against Him.

The Victor We Know, the Olabimtan With Probity He Has a Clean Slate No Corruption Charges Ever Leveled Against Him.

By Eleko Johnson

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Chairman of the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Hon. Victor Olabimtan, has been described as the best candidate to lead the party in the state.

Olabimtan, a former Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, is being positioned by his supporters as a man of integrity, probity, and experience—qualities they say are needed to reposition the party ahead of future political contests.

According to one of his media aides, Mr. Eleko Johnson, Olabimtan’s political trajectory is one built on merit and service. He said the seasoned politician has never been linked to any corruption scandal or questionable dealings throughout his career.

“He has a clean slate, no corruption charges ever leveled against him. He is a man of probity and integrity overload. He never soiled his hands in any shady deal,” Eleko said.

Olabimtan’s public service résumé includes serving as Chairman of the Ondo State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Federal Commissioner, Special Adviser to the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, and currently as Chairman of SUBEB.

His supporters believe his wealth of experience, gathered across different tiers of government and leadership roles, places him in a unique position to unify and strengthen the APC in Ondo State.

“Experience cannot be bought; it can only be earned. Hon. Olabimtan has served and is still serving meritoriously, and that has earned him the requisite knowledge to lead the APC in Ondo State,” Eleko added.

With the APC gearing up for internal restructuring and future elections, stakeholders say the time is right to rally behind a leader whose track record reflects discipline, dedication, and transparency.

“Who else should we jostle for, if not Olabimtan? Let’s secure the best for APC in Ondo State,” he said.

Oyebanji debunks rumors of planned defection to ADC, reaffirms commitment to APC.

Oyebanji debunks rumors of planned defection to ADC, reaffirms commitment to APC.

By Olamide Akinwumi 

The Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has described as false and mischievous, a viral online report alleging his planned defection to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) alongside other political leaders in the state.

In a statement issued on Monday and signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Olayinka Oyebode, the governor described the report as "a tissue of lies" fabricated by disgruntled political elements who are desperate to discredit his administration.

The report had claimed that Governor Oyebanji and some top government functionaries in the state were being lured into the ADC by the immediate past Governor of the state, Dr Kayode Fayemi.

Oyebode, however, dismissed the report as baseless, saying the governor remains firmly rooted in the All Progressives Congress (APC), with no affiliation or intention to join the ADC.

“For the avoidance of doubt, Governor Biodun Oyebanji and the public office holders mentioned in the report remain firmly rooted in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and have no link, neither do they have any plan whatsoever to join the ADC,” the statement read in part.

He also stressed that Dr Fayemi remains a committed APC chieftain, noting his attendance at the recent APC caucus meeting in Iyin-Ekiti, where party leaders unanimously endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji for second terms.

“It is on record that Dr Fayemi attended the recent APC Caucus meeting held in Iyin-Ekiti, where the caucus endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Oyebanji for a second term, a decision that was widely reported in the media,” Oyebode added.

The governor’s aide further accused the unnamed sponsors of the report of attempting to create a rift between Governor Oyebanji and President Tinubu by weaponising the longstanding political association between the governor and Fayemi.

“We are aware of a deliberate attempt by some mischief makers to weaponise Governor Oyebanji’s association with Dr Fayemi in a bid to cause a rift between the Governor and President Tinubu. Unfortunately for these jesters, Mr President is a strategic politician who can see through their shenanigans,” he said.

He urged the public to disregard the “childish media attack,” which he described as a ploy by some desperate governorship aspirants in the state who lack a viable agenda to market themselves to the electorate.

“Now that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the date for the primary election, we expect them to be bold enough to come out and sell their candidature to party members and Ekitikete rather than seeking an ignoble way to gate crash,” the statement concluded.

APC Primary: Resist Moneybags, Deputy Gov, Leaders Rally Women for Oyebanji.

APC Primary: Resist Moneybags, Deputy Gov, Leaders Rally Women for Oyebanji.                  .….As hundreds defect to Ekiti APC.

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye and leaders of the All Progressives Congress, on Monday, charged women within the party’s fold to resist alleged desperate attempt by some politicians to purchase their votes in the party’s primary, preparatory to the June 20, 2026 governorship poll.

The party leaders urged them to remain steadfast in their support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who has demonstrated unflagging commitment to gender promotion, by appointing women into strategic positions in government and party’s top echelons.

Mrs Afuye and the party’s women bigwigs, gave the charge, during an APC mobilisation tour, held in Ode, Omuo, Emure and Ise Ekiti, headquarters of Ayekire, Ekiti East, Emure and Ise/Orun Local Government areas of the state, respectively.

The programme was championed by the Ekiti State First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, who was represented at the event by her Special Assistant on Political Matters, Mrs Toyin Adepoju, to mobilise women for the governor ahead of the 2026 poll.

Addressing the women in all the councils visited, where hundreds of women defected into APC, Mrs Afuye, in a statement by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, urged stiff resistance against those she branded as “moneybags”, who want to deploy monetary power to secure the party’s ticket.

Mrs Afuye posited that the governor through shrewd political acumen and sagacity, had demonstrated respect for party supremacy, by returning power to the rightful owners at the grassroots, thereby ramping up the culture of inclusivity.

The Deputy Governor added that Governor Oyebanji has surpassed his colleagues in terms of performance and development, despite receiving one of the least allocations from the federation accounts among the 36 states.

“You have a governor who is prudent. He has the experience, that is why you have this level of development. Don’t allow anybody to buy your conscience with ill-gotten wealth during the primary and the main election. You will never be disappointed, nor be put to shame under this government.

“Those who can’t win election in their wards are saying they will defeat us. If Governor Oyebanji wins the second term, he will do more for women. You can see the positions women are now enjoying in Ekiti, let us allow this to continue.

“Women are the most committed voters and mobilisers. We value you and Mr Governor has shown that he values you a lot. I want you to stand with him. He is a man with milk of kindness and compassion running in his veins.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had spoken in Abuja that our governor should move on and we must support him for this reelection to be achieved for the benefit of our state”.

In the same fashion, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Habibat Adubiaro and Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe, charged the women to be fair to all the new entrants in the party as expected under an ideal democratic setting.

They appealed to them to shun backstabbing in the primary and as well participate in the Continuous Voter Registration Exercise, to be declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission, to buoy party’s support base.

“I want you to prove yourselves in the next primary with your votes. Don’t allow anybody to deceive you. Governor Oyebanji is the only person that can protect your interest. He knows the way, I want you to follow someone who knows the road. Don’t follow those that will mislead you”, Awe advised.

Buttressing the position canvassed by the Deputy Governor, the Chairperson, APC Women Elders’ Council, Mrs Ronke Okunsanya, charged them to reciprocate Governor Oyebanji’s outstanding gender balancing and inclusivity policy, through massive votes in 2026.

The former APC State Women Leader, said they should remain steadfast in their support for the governor , assuring that their interests shall be protected accordingly.

The Ekiti APC State Chairman, Hon. Sola Elesin, represented by the State Publicity Secretary, Mr. Segun Dipe, maintained that the Governor possesses the credibility, integrity and rich political and administrative antecedents to lead the state till 2030.

In their verdicts, the APC Women Leaders in Ekiti East, Mrs Kehinde Kayode, her counterparts in Ayekire, Chief Rachael Ademiloye, Emure, Mrs Florence Oke and Ise/Orun Councils, Mrs Idowu Oloniyo , declared total and unshakeable support for Governor Oyebanji.

They promised that they won’t deviate, nor waver in their backing for the Governor to win the party’s ticket during the APC primary and the subsequent election.

On the Deputy Governor’s entourage are: Chairmen of Local Governments, Director General , Office of Community Communications, Mrs Mary Oso- Omotoso, members of APC State Working Committee, women leaders, groups, among others.

Oyebanji Swears in Ogunmoye as Ekiti Chief Judge.

Oyebanji Swears in Ogunmoye as Ekiti Chief Judge.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji on Monday swore in Justice Lekan Ogunmoye as the sixth substantive Chief Judge of the state, with a charge to uphold justice with courage, integrity, and a strong sense of duty

 

Justice Lekan Ogunmoye who had served as the Acting Chief Judge since November 5, 2024, following the passing of his predecessor, Hon Justice Oyewole Adeyeye, was formally ratified by the Ekiti State House of Assembly on July 3, 2025 following a recommendation by the judiciary committee.

Speaking while performing the swearing-in at the Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office in Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji, who described the judiciary as the last hope of the common man, affirmed that his administration would continue to support the judiciary by prioritizing the welfare of its members and giving the Judge all the needed support to carry out his duties diligently.

Acknowledging the long standing reputation of excellent and dignity of the state judiciary and emphasizing the need to preserve this heritage, the Governor urged the new Chief Justice to continually raise the bar of excellent and ensure prompt and efficient service delivery that meet global standards.

The Governor said: “Your Lordship, history will judge you not by the accolades you receive today, but by the legacy you leave behind after your tour of duty. In this position, courage and integrity must be your constant companions. Let it be said in years to come that under your leadership, the judiciary of Ekiti State reached a higher standard—one that ensured justice for all, regardless of status, gender, or circumstance.

While congratulating the new Chief Judge on his deserved elevation, Oyebanji said his administration remains committed to the independence of the judiciary and will continue to support judicial reforms, provide resources for improved infrastructure, and promote initiatives that will enhance the delivery of justice across the state.

 “The position of Chief Judge is not a mere title—it is a sacred trust. The judiciary is the last hope of the common man because of the institution that guarantees the equality of all before the majesty of the Law. The institution must therefore, be guided, not by sentiment, fear, or favoritism, but by the Constitution and the dictates of the Law. As the most sacred, conservative and apolitical arm of Government, the Judiciary must be manned by persons of unimpeachable integrity, profound legal knowledge and astute administrative capability. These qualities therefore place upon the occupier of this exalted position, a sacred duty to uphold justice at all times regardless of whose interest is involved.  

“I therefore implore Your Lordship to be guided by a sense of duty flowing from your years of experience beginning as a State Counsel, and later the Solicitor-General of Ekiti State and much later a Judge of the High Court. It is delightful that one can attest to your unblemished record as a Judge of the High Court for nearly two decades and your eighth months in acting capacity as Chief judge. 

“The Ekiti State judiciary has a great reputation, one of excellence and dignity. This is a heritage we are proud of, and one we must protect and advance. I therefore, wish to say that there is more to be done in order to continuously raise the bar and to ensure prompt and efficient service delivery that meet global standards” the Governor asserted.

Earlier in his opening remarks,  the Attorney General and commissioner for Justice, Mr Dayo Apata (SAN), who commended Governor Oyebanji for his unwavering commitment to due process and the rule of law, said the Governor has continually demonstrated respect for independence of the judiciary.

Mr Apata, who explained that the appointment of the new Chief Judge as the substantive Chief Judge was in compliance with the provision of law, stated that the Governor acted in accordance with the law, which empowers the State Governor to appointed a Chief Judge on the recommendation of the National Judiciary Council and subjected to the confirmation of the State House of Assembly

In his response, the new Chief Judge, Justice Lekan Ogunmoye, who expressed his gratitude to the Governor for the confidence reposed in him, acknowledged the Governor’s commitment to the independence and growth of the judiciary and promised not to betray the trust of the government and the people of the state.

Justice Ogunmoye stated that his vision for the Ekiti State Judiciary is to fully embrace digital transformation in order to enhance efficiency and speed in the administration of justice, stressing that his goal is to modernize court process through technology, making judicial service more accessible to the public while ensuring greater transparency and accountability across all levels of the judiciary

Also at the event were, President, Ekiti State Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Monisade Abodunde, Head of Service, Dr (Mrs) Folakemi Olomojobi, members of the State House of Assembly, members of the State Executice Council, members of the Judiciary, Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejuyigbe, and stakeholders from across the state’s legal comunity.

WHEN A UNIFIER IS RUNNING.

WHEN A UNIFIER IS RUNNING.

By  Adekoya Lateeph Adewumi 

The term ‘Unifier’ has become a familiar word in Nigerian politics, although political actors often invoke it as a buzzword to promote themselves when necessary. We have had various individuals touted as Unifiers in the past and in recent times, where one would expect them to rally their party in times of disarray by invoking their supposed unifying spirit. For the sake of clarity, let’s not wander into the wilderness, but rather focus our lens on the fountain of knowledge where the definition fits perfectly.

Governor Biodun Oyebanji, popular known as BAO is perceived by some as a greenhorn simply because he wasn't well-known before occupying Oke Ayoba in Ekiti, despite being one of the key players who laid the groundwork that paved the way for others to reap the benefits today. On the other hand, some people believe he has paid his dues and deserves the position, given his experience within the system. Regardless, his natural leadership abilities resonate more than his perceived lineage or background. The political atmosphere in Ekiti has not been this calm for over two decades, and with just a few months to the gubernatorial primary election, tensions will be running high in the past.

However, the reverse is the case at present. It’s not that some potential candidates are tired, lack the financial resources, or don’t have the necessary connections to throw their hat into the ring. Rather, they’re constantly weighing the phrase ‘What if I don’t make it?’ Moreover, an astute politician must be able to read the times and gauge the thermometer, to act accordingly– a crucial consideration for any rational person, regardless of their financial capacity. 

If you evaluate Governor Biodun Oyebanji (BAO) based on his discipline as an administrator and political scientist, you might overlook the divine logic that God often protects precious gifts from being exploited or stolen.

Aside from his performance, BAO is a man of peace in every sense of the word. His humble spirit has drawn even his political foes to him, while those who refuse to be friends with him remain silent. His ability to form friendships in seemingly impossible situations is worth emulating. To outsiders, when you mention Ekiti, several names readily come to mind, such as His Excellency Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo, His Excellency Ayodele Fayose (aka Osoko), His Excellency Asiwaju Segun Oni, His Excellency Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Aare Afe Babalola, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), Mr. Femi Falana (SAN), Mr. Dele Adesina (SAN), Prince Adedayo Adeyeye, Prince Juli Adelusi, Prof. Ade Ajayi, Mr. Dele Alake, Prof. Modupe Adelabu and Senator Opeyemi Bamidele among others. They all say ‘BAO is doing well’, much like Mr. Macaroni's candid observations on his freak’s parole.

BAO knows his way to their doorsteps even in the dark. He ensures he visits them often to keep them informed about his administration and seeks their input when necessary. Frequently, you hear them saying, “Omo daada ni BAO, Omoluabi lomo yen, Gomina eleyi yato,” and so on. In fact, when you need an honest assessment, ask your enemy, and whatever you get will be a true reflection of your personality. His ability to connect with his people is unparalleled. He has further demonstrated his commitment to the “Omoluabi” ethos by showing respect to elders through traditional gestures and compliments. The peace in Ekiti is not due to its homogeneous nature, but rather the Chief Executive’s daily conduct of state affairs, which promotes peace. The Leader of the Opposition in Ekiti today, His Excellency Ayodele Peter Fayose, is ironically preparing for Governor BAO’s second term as if he’s the one running. BAO has shown great respect to Osoko, and to whom much is given, much is expected. Recently, my support group, BAO Movement, paid a courtesy visit to one of our patrons, Rt. Hon. Femi Bamisile (Bafem), who said, ‘Fayose is well-prepared for BAO’s second term; I visited him recently, and we discussed at length.’ I was taken aback, ‘Bafem visited Fayose?’ That exemplifies the unifying power of BAO’s leadership. 

BAO is a phenomenon, an uncommon man in his approach to issues. He has simplified governance to the extent that when some artisans talk about BAO, you might  assume they are his appointees. BAO has received several awards, such as the coveted Silverbird's Man of the Year and many others. However, on a global scale, I believe the Nobel Peace Prize would be a fitting recognition. I’m confident that the Norwegian Nobel Committee will take notice of his efforts one day. It’s in his nature to demonstrate his commitment to peace locally, which eventually dovetails to global peace. I’m sure he’ll soon receive international recognition. 

When you listen to some political leaders, even those from the APC who might ordinarily be expected to criticize the state government, speak about BAO, you can’t help but wonder what they’re seeing in him that makes them speak so highly. 

The humble spirit that has brought peace to Ekiti is a magnet that has drawn continuous endorsements every day. In fact, some groups will even add glamour to show they're truly BAO supporters at heart. Just like former Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Sule Lamido, advised PDP months ago, "Wrestling against Tinubu in 2027 is a sheer waste of time and resources. Let's allow him spend his 8 years, and by 2031 we'll confront his anointed candidate." So, my advice to anyone covertly or overtly interested in occupying Oke Ayoba is to wait till 2030. By then, you and the entire South will be in a strong position. But planning to beat an organic candidate now would be futile, as K1 aptly put it, "You will have to travel to Mecca and come back" before you can succeed.

Adekoya is a journalist based in Ado.