Ekiti 2026: Ojudu Political Family Endorses  Oyebanji’s Re-election 

Former Special Adviser to the President Muhammadu Buhari on Political Matters, Senator Babafemi Ojudu has declared support for the reelection of the incumbent governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) for second term.

Rising  from an expanded meeting on Sunday in Ado-Ekiti, members of the political group “Ekiti Rebirth Organisation(ERO)” lead by Ojudu unveiled the group’s decision to support the governor’s second term bid.

The meeting was attended by the Director General of the group, Hon Femi Adeleye; secretary, Barrister Toyin Oluwasola and members across the 16 Local Government Areas of the state.

In his remarks, Ojudu said the organization has observed the political space since the governor assumed office in October 2022 and concluded that he deserves to be supported to fulfil his shared prosperity agenda for the state.

Ojudu who recalled the political instability, persecution, violence and killings witnessed in the state before 2022, stated that in the last two and half years, Governor Oyebanji’s inclusive leadership style has fostered peace, stability and development in the state.

 “We believe in Governor Oyebanji’s leadership. We see progress and we want continuity. However, our endorsement is not a blank cheque, it is a commitment to partnership – to work alongside his government in building a better Ekiti.

“For a long time, our group has chosen to remain on the sidelines of Ekiti politics-not out of indifference, but out of disappointment. We saw a state drifting away from its ideals, overtaken by deceit where there should have been honesty, inaction where there should have been progress, and personal enrichment where there should have been public service.

“We are here to endorse Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for a second term and to call on the good people of Ekiti State to give him the opportunity to continue steering Ekiti towards growth and prosperity.

“This decision is not based on blind loyalty, personal benefits, or political convenience. We are not sycophants. We are not “bread-and-butter” politicians. We are Ekiti patriots who have sacrificed over the years to guide our people toward meaningful development.

“We received him with cautious optimism, over the last two years, his leadership has reassured us that Ekiti can finally embark on the path of true development.

“For the first time in decades, Ekiti is witnessing leadership that values inclusion over exclusion.

“Unlike in the past , dissent is not met with violence or intimidation; opposition figures and critics have not been attacked or silenced, even when he (Oyebanji) is abused, insulted and lied against, he maintains a dignified posture.

The former presidential aide revealed that the administration has initiated people-centered policies and programmes that have significantly impacted on the lives and livelihood of the citizens.

He added that the administration’s massive road constructions, support for the small and medium scale businesses including investment in agriculture to enhance food security have made stakeholders to ask for the governor’s continuity beyond 2026.

He appealed to the people to support the governor’s second term in 2026 so that the gains already recorded can be consolidated.

“Under Governor Oyebanji, Ekiti has enjoyed unprecedented political stability, no assassinations, no politically motivated attacks, no acid baths, no intimidation, this is in stark contrast to previous administration.

“Today, that era of fear is over. People visit and conduct business in Ekiti freely, without looking over their shoulders. This is what leadership should guarantee – peace and safety.

The renowned journalist however called on the governor to remain dedicated and committed in improving the state’s economic fortunes, assuring the people that the group would continue to critically engage the government.

“While governor Oyebanji has made remarkable strides, no administration is perfect. There are areas that require further attention and as a progressive organization, we will continue to push for improvement.

“We are not here today praise- we are here to support with critical engagement. We will call our shortcomings, demand accountability and ensure the governor stays on track. That is the role of responsible citizens,” Ojudu concluded.