Oyebanji’s 2026 Re-election Drive Gains Momentum with Support from Shettima, 18 Governors and 42 Legislators
By Rotimi Ojomoyela
A strong display of political solidarity and support was witnessed in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday as Vice President Kashim Shettima, alongside 18 All Progressives Congress (APC) governors, 24 senators, and 18 members of the House of Representatives, gathered to endorse Governor Biodun Oyebanji ahead of the June 20 governorship election.
The grand finale of the APC campaign attracted thousands of supporters and party members from all 16 local government areas of Ekiti State. The event also drew prominent political figures, including former governors of the state, APC National Chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and governors from several states such as Imo, Lagos, Kaduna, Borno, Ondo, Jigawa, Sokoto, Yobe, Kogi, Bayelsa, and Ogun.
Addressing the gathering, Vice President Kashim Shettima praised Governor Oyebanji as a dedicated and result-driven leader whose achievements have earned him widespread admiration across political lines.
Shettima noted that the projects he commissioned during a recent visit to Ekiti State reflected the governor’s commitment to development and good governance.
According to him, “Governor Oyebanji is hardworking and focused. The presence of former governors here today demonstrates the confidence they have in his leadership. The projects I commissioned are clear evidence of his commitment to transforming Ekiti State.”
Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, also expressed confidence in the APC’s dominance in Ekiti, citing the overwhelming support shown for Governor Oyebanji throughout the state.
He stated that the APC remained the only party capable of effectively mobilizing support at the grassroots level and urged residents to vote for both Governor Oyebanji and President Bola Tinubu.
“We have witnessed tremendous support for BAO in all 16 local government areas. The APC continues to enjoy strong grassroots acceptance. The opposition’s challenges are not our responsibility. What we have seen today confirms that the governor has performed well and deserves another term,” Uzodinma said.
In a notable show of bipartisan support, former Ekiti State Governor and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Ayodele Fayose, commended Oyebanji’s inclusive leadership style and expressed confidence in his chances of securing victory at the polls.
APC National Chairman Professor Nentawe Yilwatda also applauded the governor’s achievements and encouraged Ekiti residents to reward his performance with their votes.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described Governor Oyebanji as a humble, trustworthy, and people-oriented leader, noting that the large turnout of political leaders at the rally underscored his popularity and accomplishments.
“The gathering we are witnessing today is in support of a governor who has delivered results and remains humble in service. He is gender-sensitive, committed to the welfare of the people, and has earned the trust of Ekiti residents,” Akpabio said.
He further urged voters not to take the election for granted despite the governor’s apparent popularity.
“Do not assume victory is guaranteed. Go out and vote peacefully. Ekiti people are known for their peaceful nature, and I encourage everyone to maintain that reputation during the election,” he added.
Responding to the endorsements, Governor Oyebanji expressed appreciation to the people of Ekiti State and APC leaders for their continued confidence in his administration.
He said his government had fulfilled the promises made at the beginning of his tenure and pledged to deliver even more if re-elected.
“I sincerely thank the people of Ekiti for their support. When we came into office, we promised to serve diligently, and I believe our achievements speak for themselves. These are tangible projects and improvements that the people can see and benefit from. We are ready to do even more in the next term,” the governor said.
He appealed to residents to participate peacefully in the election and celebrate democracy by exercising their civic responsibility at the polls.