…Ex-Deputy Governor, Party Leaders Rally Support in Ikole, Oye
Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has declared that his administration’s record in infrastructure, human capital development, agriculture, peace building and prudent resource management demonstrates his commitment to fulfilling campaign promises, making him deserving of a second term in office.
The governor made the assertion on Monday during campaign rallies in Ikole and Oye Ekiti, as he commenced his re-election tour across the 16 local government areas ahead of the June 20 governorship election.
Oyebanji, who cautioned against violence, described the forthcoming poll as a “contest of votes, not weapons,” urging residents to maintain peace before, during and after the election. He maintained that his administration has honoured the social contract entered into with the electorate in 2022.
The campaign rallies attracted large crowds of supporters, with many residents turning out in solidarity, while several members of opposition parties defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Highlighting his achievements, the governor said his government had delivered on key promises, including road construction, improved electricity supply, upgraded health facilities, school rehabilitation and financial support for traders.
He added that significant progress had also been made in restoring security across previously troubled areas, particularly the Itapaji–Irele–Ipao–Oke Ako corridor.
He said: “If a government is delivering, it deserves continuity. What we are building in Ekiti requires alignment of vision and sustained effort. The feedback across the state is that our policies are working, and we must consolidate on these gains.”
Oyebanji urged voters to turn out en masse on election day, expressing confidence that the APC would secure victory in all 16 local government areas and 177 wards, a feat he described as unprecedented in the state’s political history.
He also linked the state election to broader national politics, calling for strong voter turnout in Ekiti as part of the South-West’s contribution to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s anticipated re-election bid in 2027.
Earlier, the State Chairman of the APC, Barrister Sola Elesin, commended the governor’s performance, describing it as impressive in governance, peace building and fiscal discipline.
He urged party supporters to work towards increasing the party’s vote tally significantly above the 2022 figures.
Also speaking, a former Deputy Governor of the state, Chief Paul Alabi, expressed confidence that Ikole Local Government would deliver overwhelming support for the governor, citing widespread backing from key stakeholders, including traditional rulers, teachers, traders, youths and community groups.
In his remarks, a youth leader in Oye Local Government, Mr. Semiu Jimoh, attributed the governor’s popularity to projects such as the renovation of general hospitals, road construction and youth-focused agricultural initiatives.
According to the campaign timetable, the statewide tour will conclude on May 13.
