APC Blasts Kayode Ojo, Says ‘You Can’t Hijack the Ticket of a Party You Don’t Respect’

Ado - Ekiti

August 27, 2025

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State has come down hard on Engineer Kayode Ojo over his renewed governorship ambition, declaring that it is impossible for anyone who has no respect for the party to hijack its ticket.

Speaking on behalf of the party, the State Publicity Secretary, Hon. Segun Dipe, stressed that the primary election is strictly a party affair and will not be open to those who have shown disloyalty and disregard for the APC.

“Primary election is strictly a party affair. If you don’t respect the party, you cannot represent the party. No serious political organization will hand its ticket to a total stranger or a flight-by-night aspirant. This is our position in the APC, and it remains unchanged. Know this, and know peace,” Dipe said.

This statement comes against the backdrop of Engineer Kayode Ojo’s return to the scene, a development that has stirred concerns among party leaders. Ojo, described as a stranger in the APC, had withdrawn from party activities immediately after losing the 2022 governorship primary, only to now reappear a few months to the next contest.

Ojo’s track record with the party, according to stakeholders, has been marked by acts of disregard and open hostility. “Ojo’s disrespect for the party is scary, as if the leadership of the APC amounts to nothing.

“When he lost the governorship primary election in 2022, he dragged the party to court up to the Supreme Court, ignoring pleas to reconsider his stance in the interest of peace,” a chieftain of the party, Dr. Akeju Akinsola said.

Recently, Ojo launched a barrage of media attacks on respected leaders of the party, including former governors whom he described as “thieves.” He went further to accuse APC leaders of bias and tagged noble members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly as “rubber stamp.”

Party insiders noted that Ojo’s attacks have not spared even the respected National Secretary of the party, whom he insulted publicly.

“We thought that would be the end, but Ojo has since sponsored over 150 online influencers to rubbish President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the state of federal roads in Ekiti,” the source added.

The APC believes Ojo’s actions are part of a larger ploy to dent the image of the party before moving to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to join his ally, former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi.

It would be recalled that the Ekiti APC had earlier described Ojo as a pretender, while the National Secretary of the party maintained that anyone contesting against Governor Biodun Oyebanji in the primary is only helping the APC generate revenue.

The party's National scribe insists that the will of the Ekiti people is clear, to see their performing Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, return for another four years.

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Oyebanji’s Working Manifesto vs. Ojo’s Silence: Citizens Speak

...say Ekiti will never gamble its future on a visionless aspirant and a serial loser.

Ado-Ekiti 

A cross-section of Ekiti citizens has raised questions about the preparedness and suitability of Engineer Kayode Ojo, a perennial governorship aspirant. They describe him as a serial contestant and loser, lacking vision and direction.

In a monitored WhatsApp political discourse, participants challenged Ojo to present his manifesto for public scrutiny, noting that Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s campaign document has been serving as a roadmap for the state since 2022.

Public affairs analyst, Femi Owolabi, opened the debate by asking for Ojo’s policy framework, stating: 

“For the purpose of public intellection, do you have a copy of Engr Ojo’s manifesto/policy draft, and if we may put on a comparison scale with that of Gov. Oyebanji? To be frank, the vision/mission you shared are all captured in the BAO manifesto way back from 2022. We have also analyzed some of those manifesto promises and matched them with the deliveries.”

Other contributors described Ojo as invisible and unprepared for governance. Crucio remarked:

“You’re demanding a manifesto from a man that his face has not shown at anything tied to him? Did you even see him at the Party Secretariat to purchase his ticket? A person that’s not visible is who you’re demanding manifesto from?”

Similarly, another contributor, AY Nigeria, dismissed Ojo’s political outings as mere noise-making without substance:

“Their goal is simply to make noise. They are not ready for the work of governance. They just want a slice of the pie. Ekiti rejects accidental leadership. BAO is okay.”

Some participants also recalled Ojo’s failed attempt in the 2022 primaries. Mr. Asiwaju Oladimeji explained that his supporters then had been misled with claims of backing from Abuja, which eventually proved false.

“Back then, we were told Abuja was behind him. It turned out false. This time around, they’re still pushing the same narrative. But Abuja has spoken. His followers will learn bitterly the same way some of us learned in 2022.”

Others were more critical, pointing to his lack of grassroots investment and repeated electoral failures.

“The millions he keeps wasting on nomination forms could have been invested in empowering people and building genuine grassroots acceptance. Politics is not karaoke where you just grab the mic and rehearse,” said Femi Esan.

For Olasoji Akodu, Ojo’s ambition has only led to repeated losses:

“₦50m wasted! This is his third attempt. How did the previous two go? Ófo Ijo keji ọjà!”

Also speaking, Segun Aina Sunday projected that Ojo would continue contesting in futility:

“He first contested in 2018, then 2022, now 2026. He will still contest in 2030, 2034, 2038. Meanwhile, he will never be Governor of Ekiti State.”

While others described Ojo’s outings as mere “noise,” Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant, Media and Communication to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, gave a blunt verdict on Ojo’s ambition:

“Except the President is a member of your party and he is supporting you, contesting party gubernatorial primary election against a sitting governor is a waste of time and resources. Know this, and know peace.”

The general consensus in the conversation was that Ekiti cannot entrust its future into the hands of what was described as an “accidental and unprepared leadership,” stressing that Governor Oyebanji remains a more credible and reliable option, given the visible implementation of his manifesto across sectors of the state.

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Kayode Ojo’s Attack on Ekiti Leaders, an Assault on Our Political Heritage ~ BAO Media Centre

The BAO Media Centre (BMC) has strongly condemned the recent verbal outburst launched by governorship aspirant, Engineer Kayode Ojo, in which he not only attacked former Governor of Ekiti State and one-time Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, but also went further to call all former governors of the state thieves.

“These are people that had served the state meritoriously; Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Engr. Segun Oni, Dr. Kayode Fayemi all in APC, and former Governor Ayo Fayose, who is a strong supporter of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

"He even ridiculed House of Assembly members, calling them rubber stamp, while rubbishing party leaders as biased. The question we are asking now is, is this man truly in APC?” the centre queried.

The centre expressed shock at Ojo’s verbal attacks, remarking on how a party aspirant descended heavily on the party's founding father in the state.

“We are still in disbelief that someone who calls himself a leader in this party could launch such verbal missiles at the same elders that nurtured the party to the beautiful bride it is today. Attacking Otunba Niyi Adebayo, the father figure of APC in Ekiti, is a political suicide mission. His statement clearly exposes a man fighting shadows, not a man building bridges.”

The centre described Ojo’s outburst as reckless, unguarded, and a direct insult on the collective political heritage of Ekiti people.

“Otunba Niyi Adebayo is not just a pioneer Governor of this state; he is also a stabilizing force in the APC both at state and national levels. Any attempt to malign his name is an affront to the culture of respect and unity that defines Ekiti politics,” the statement read.

The centre noted that Ekiti APC has thrived on the sacrifices, mentorship and stabilizing influence of respected leaders like Otunba Adebayo, warning that any aspirant seeking relevance through blackmail will meet stiff resistance from genuine party loyalists.

“Casting aspersions on Otunba Adebayo and all the respected former governors is not only politically immature but also alien to the progressive tradition of our party. Rather than tearing down the pillars of unity, aspirants are expected to market their ideas to party members and the electorate,” BMC cautioned.

The centre noted that Ojo’s comment reflects a “deep-seated bitterness” rather than a constructive contribution to party growth.

“You cannot insult the same foundation that holds the house you are living in. Otunba Niyi Adebayo is beyond partisan attacks, he is a stabilizer not just for APC but for Ekiti politics. Ojo’s statement was unnecessary, misdirected, and speaks more of desperation than strategy,” the statement read.

BMC fears that such utterances, if unchecked, may further polarize the APC in the state, especially as the party continues to consolidate ahead of the next electoral cycle.

Reaffirming Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s commitment to inclusive leadership, the BAO Media Centre urged all aspirants to maintain decorum in their campaigns, stressing that the APC will not allow selfish ambition to undermine the unity and peace of the party.

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BAO’s Statement Bold, Not Fearful ~ Ayeni

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, Mr. Yemi Ayodele Ayeni, has described Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s recent remarks as a bold and honest expression rather than a reflection of fear, as some commentators have insinuated.

Ayeni, in a statement released on Sunday, said it was wrong for anyone to interpret the Governor’s straightforward position as a sign of panic over future elections, stressing that Oyebanji has only spoken the truth without the usual political embellishments.

“Fear of what? Fear of election? Governor Oyebanji is not expecting a ‘walkover’ where nobody will contest against him. Not even a novice in politics will think that way. The Governor has simply called a spade a spade,” Ayeni stated.

Drawing a biblical analogy, Ayeni likened the Governor’s statement to that of Jesus Christ, who openly called out Judas among His disciples in John 13:18. According to him, Oyebanji’s words should be seen as an expression of disappointment over betrayal by a few individuals, not as weakness.

“The statement by Mr. Governor is a reflection of disappointment in Judas among his people and not an expression of fear. Many may not realise that if ten Judases are out, hundreds of disciples are in for BAO,” he added.

Ayeni further declared his total loyalty to the Governor, describing himself as “100% BAOtic.”

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From Criminal Hideouts to Cash Crops: Oyebanji Changes the Ekiti Story

...as Government Revamps Farm Settlements and Engages Youths in Agribusiness

The administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji is steadily transforming Ekiti’s rural economy, turning spaces once abandoned to crime into hubs of agribusiness, youth engagement, and wealth creation.

At Oke Ako, under the Bring Back Our Youths to Agriculture (BBYA) initiative, over 100 hectares of soybean plantation have been cultivated, alongside nearly 300 hectares of matured maize set for harvest in the coming weeks. The project, which was inspected during this year’s International Youth Day, has become a symbol of how agriculture can serve as a viable path to job creation, food security, and youth empowerment.

Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Ebenezer Boluwade, who led the inspection, said the initiative aligns with Governor Oyebanji’s Shared Prosperity Agenda, stressing that agriculture is not only about food production but also about securing lives, creating jobs, and building wealth for young people in the state.

In the same vein, the government is remodeling farm settlements to make farming attractive and sustainable. At Iyemero Farm Settlement in Ikole Local Government, one of the first five youth dormitories is nearing completion. Each dormitory will accommodate 100 youths, fully powered by solar energy, equipped with satellite facilities, and backed by 24/7 security.

According to the Commissioner, these efforts are deliberate steps to make farming appealing to the younger generation in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of positioning agriculture as a tool for economic prosperity.

“Governor Oyebanji is busy turning once uncovered spaces into epicentres of agribusiness and economic activities. Farming in Ekiti is no longer just about subsistence, it is becoming modern, attractive, and profitable,” Boluwade said.

With these interventions, Ekiti is not only boosting food security but also laying the foundation for a future where youths see agriculture as both a calling and a business.

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BMC Debunks Sahara Reporters’ False Claim on Ekiti Revenue House Contract ~ Clarifies Facts and Timeline

The BAO Media Centre (BMC) has dismissed a report by Sahara Reporters alleging that the Ekiti State Government awarded two separate contracts for the construction of the State Revenue House in Ado Ekiti, describing the claim as malicious or borne out of ignorance.

BMC explained that the procurement records, which are publicly accessible, clearly show one contract with a later-approved addendum, a standard procedure in project management when additional works outside the original scope become necessary.

According to the records, the Ekiti State Board of Internal Revenue Service in November 2024 awarded the contract for the construction of the Revenue House to Ricabim Nigeria Limited at the sum of ₦1,702,141,752.88. The agreement covered the core building structure and internal facilities, with an 18-month completion period.

Subsequently, in August 2025, an addendum of ₦731,511,105.58 was approved to cover external works and additional finishing components not included in the initial contract scope. This brought the total contract sum to ₦2,433,652,858.46.

“This is not a fresh or duplicate contract as Sahara Reporters claimed. 

“It is an extension of the existing contract to ensure that the project, when delivered, meets the full specifications and operational standards required of such a critical facility," BMC stated.

The proposed Revenue House, strategically located at Fajuyi, Ado Ekiti, is a flagship infrastructure project of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration. It is designed to:

Modernise the state’s revenue collection system

Provide a centralised workspace for revenue officers

Reduce leakages and enhance efficiency in tax administration

Boost the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) capacity. 

BMC emphasised that the Oyebanji administration remains committed to transparency, accountability, and due process in all procurement matters, noting that all contract awards and amendments are duly captured on the Ekiti State Bureau of Public Procurement’s Open Contracting Data Standard (OCDS) portal for public scrutiny.

“The public is advised to disregard the Sahara Reporters story as a classic case of sensationalism. This administration will not be distracted from its focus on delivering projects that directly impact the lives of the people,” the statement concluded.

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Tinubu Hails Oyebanji’s Performance, Pledges Stronger Federal Backing for Ekiti’s Development

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his outstanding leadership in agriculture, infrastructure, security, and economic growth, declaring him a model of what it means to “match policy with action.”

The President, speaking after a review session with the Governor at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, lauded Oyebanji’s Vision of Shared Prosperity, describing it as a perfect reflection of the All Progressives Congress (APC) spirit and the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Governor Oyebanji’s clear vision, prudent management, and people-focused leadership have continued to inspire confidence, not only in Ekiti but across the nation. Our administration will continue to work closely with states that deliver results,” President Tinubu stated.

The President assured that the federal government remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen security, boost human capital development, and ensure lasting prosperity for Nigerians.

Governor Oyebanji described the meeting as “fruitful and reassuring,” noting that discussions focused on accelerating Ekiti’s socio-economic transformation and deepening the state’s contribution to nation building.

“I appreciate President Tinubu’s interest in the progress of our dear state. His support has been instrumental to our successes, and we look forward to even greater collaboration for the benefit of our people,” Oyebanji said.

It will be recalled that Ekiti State was the first in the federation to openly endorse President Tinubu for a second term, a decision Governor Oyebanji has consistently defended as rooted in the President’s performance and commitment to national development.

Political observers note that this latest presidential commendation further validates the Governor’s leadership and silences both internal and external opposition elements attempting to undermine the state’s political stability and development trajectory.

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Ekiti Targets Rural Economy Boost With 160km of Last-Mile Roads, 100 Mini Bridges

Ekiti State Government has intensified its drive to open up rural communities and reduce post-harvest losses for farmers, with over 160 kilometres of last-mile roads reconstructed or rehabilitated and 100 mini bridges/culverts completed under the FADAMA CARES Project.

Speaking on the development, the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Ebenezer Boluwade, said the intervention was part of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s commitment to addressing one of the most pressing challenges facing rural farmers, lack of accessible roads.

“Road access is a critical rural infrastructure that must be created to accelerate the rural economy. Farmers suffer close to 50% post-harvest losses due to either a lack of good roads or the absence of culverts or mini bridges,” Boluwade explained.

According to him, the initiative complements the ongoing work of the World Bank-assisted Rural Access Agricultural Marketing Program (RAAMP), which is focusing on both state and local government roads to ease the movement of farm produce.

“With these projects, we are gradually connecting the upstream, midstream, and downstream sectors of the food value chain,” he noted. 

“You can see that the N50 billion investment in agriculture is money well spent. We will continue to push the data to educate the populace.”

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Ekiti Farmers to Access Subsidised NPK Fertiliser from State Government

The Ekiti State Government has received a fresh consignment of NPK 15.15.15. 2.6S fertiliser from OCP Fertiliser Africa Nigeria Limited, one of its accredited NPK fertiliser manufacturing partners.

Speaking on the development, the Honourable Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security said the fertiliser will be sold to farmers at a 50% subsidised rate, in line with the state’s commitment to boosting agricultural productivity and supporting food security.

Interested farmers are advised to visit the ADP Office at Agric Eleso to make their purchase, noting that each buyer will be limited to the agreed quantity.

For further inquiries, farmers can call +234 803 490 9067.

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CABINET DISSOLUTION: “Long Overdue and Nothing Unusual” ~ DG, Community Communications

The Director General, Bureau of Community Communications, Hon. Mrs. Mary Oso Omotoso, has described Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s dissolution of the Ekiti State Executive Council as a routine governance move that is long overdue, urging the public to disregard any attempt to paint it in a negative light.

Reacting to the development on Monday, Mrs. Omotoso emphasised that cabinet reshuffles are a normal part of political administration, pointing out that previous governments in Ekiti carried out similar actions much earlier in their tenure.

“Cabinet reshuffle ought to have even been done long before now. This is not new. All appointments are at the pleasure of Mr. Governor,” she stated 

She noted that Governor Oyebanji has so far run with the largest and longest-serving cabinet in the history of Ekiti State, demonstrating his inclusive leadership style and patience in evaluating the performance of his team.

“Other Governors before BAO used to dissolve at two years. This Governor has given his team more time than any of his predecessors,” she added.

Mrs. Omotoso further observed that the decision to dissolve the cabinet barely two months before the governorship primary proves that Governor Oyebanji is not desperate for power. According to her, only a leader with genuine confidence in his performance and the people's support would make such a bold move so close to an election.

Governor Oyebanji, in his announcement, thanked the outgoing members for their contributions and wished them well, while clarifying that certain Commissioners, Special Advisers, and Directors General will retain their positions.

Political observers believe the move signals the Governor’s readiness to inject fresh ideas and renewed momentum into his administration as it enters its next phase of delivering on the promises made to the people of Ekiti State.

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World Bank Recognises Ekiti’s Agricultural Strides, Partners Nigeria on Agribusiness Programme

Ekiti State’s agricultural development efforts have received national recognition as the World Bank works with Nigeria to develop a private sector-driven agribusiness programme.

The initiative, which will be co-created across the three tiers of government, is designed to complement ongoing interventions and deliver results across integrated value chains, from farmers to markets, with evidence-based strategies.

At a meeting in Abuja on Tuesday, representatives from Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, the ALGON Chair, private sector practitioners, and the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit (PFSCU) in the Office of the Vice President engaged with the World Bank team to shape the framework for the programme.

Speaking after the meeting, Ekiti State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. Ebenezer Boluwade, said the programme aligns perfectly with the huge investments and initiatives of the Biodun Oyebanji-led administration in the sector.

“This is a national recognition of the bold steps we’ve taken in agriculture in Ekiti State. The programme’s objectives are in sync with our vision and ongoing work under the leadership of His Excellency, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji,” Boluwade said.

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Small But Mighty: BAO Don Carry Ekiti Enter Investment Spotlight Again

Ekiti State has once again made its mark as one of the few states in Nigeria that attracted foreign direct investment in the first quarter of 2025, according to newly released figures from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

Despite being one of the smallest and landlocked states in the country, Ekiti made it into the exclusive list of states that attracted foreign direct investment in the first quarter of 2025, according to new data from the National Bureau of Statistics. Only four other states namely Lagos, the Federal Capital Territory, Ogun and Akwa Ibom achieved the same feat during the period.

This latest feat follows a similar pattern from the previous year when Ekiti recorded $12,750 in Q1 2024, though the numbers dipped slightly in Q2 2024. The state appears to be regaining momentum under the leadership of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

Observers say this consistent appearance on the national investment chart is a reflection of the state government's ongoing efforts to open up Ekiti for business through major infrastructure projects, urban renewal programmes, and aggressive promotion of its investment potential.

Projects such as the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, the Ekiti Ring Road, the new Ajilosun-Okeyinmi Flyover, and the transformation of Atikankan from a slum into a business hub have positioned the state as an emerging destination for investment in agriculture, logistics, and real estate.

The Oyebanji-led administration has also pushed for improved security architecture and transparency in governance, two factors that investors consider before committing funds to any location. In fact, Ekiti was recently ranked the safest state in Nigeria by the SBM Intelligence report, a recognition that further strengthens its appeal to both local and foreign investors.

In addition, the state's partnership with organisations like the African Development Bank on the Ekiti Knowledge Zone and Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zone is beginning to yield results, with several foreign firms reportedly indicating interest in setting up operations within the state.

Governor Oyebanji has repeatedly said that his government is not driven by the desire to copy bigger states like Lagos or Abuja, but to build a model state that works for its people and is attractive enough for investors looking for a safe and stable environment.

“We are building a functional state that leverages our strengths. We are not Lagos, we are not Abuja, but we know what we have and we are putting it to use,” the governor said during a recent media chat.

As other states continue to battle with low investor confidence, Ekiti seems determined to stay on the radar, and going by recent trends, the state is not slowing down.

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2026: I’m Running Again ~ Oyebanji Formally Declares, Says No Crisis in Ekiti APC

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, has formally notified the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) of his intention to seek re-election in the 2026 governorship election.

The declaration was made during a meeting with party leaders and stakeholders held at the APC State Secretariat in Ado Ekiti on Monday. Governor Oyebanji explained that the decision followed months of widespread consultation and overwhelming encouragement from traditional rulers, civil servants, professionals, artisans, youths, women groups, transport unions, and political leaders across party lines.

“Let me start by appreciating you,” the Governor began, addressing party leaders. “Thank you for your support, endurance, and for holding the party together. On behalf of myself, the Deputy Governor, and other political office holders, we are extremely grateful for your prayers and understanding. I also thank you on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the endorsement.”

The Governor took time to reaffirm the unity within the APC in Ekiti State and dispelled any insinuations of a rift within the party's leadership structure.

“There is no crisis in the leadership of APC,” he said. “Our topmost leader is former Governor Niyi Adebayo, followed by former Governor Kayode Fayemi. There is no crisis in the leadership.”

With clarity and confidence, he made his official move: “I have listened to you, and I am formally informing the party that I will run for second term. So, I plead for your support and prayers. And by His grace, I will continue to respect you.”

The hall erupted into thunderous applause and cheers, as party members welcomed the declaration with visible excitement.

The Governor further emphasized his commitment to party discipline and structure.

“In Ekiti APC, the hierarchy remains such that Otunba Niyi Adebayo is at the helm, followed by Dr. Kayode Fayemi, while I am next on the ladder. You can see that I don’t call meetings of the party to Ikogosi, my country home. Instead, we either meet at Iyin, the country home of Otunba Adebayo, or Isan, the country home of Dr. Fayemi. Maybe I’ll start holding party meetings at Ikogosi when I eventually vacate office, but not now, when I still have those two as my leaders.”

Earlier in the meeting, the Chairman of APC in Ekiti, Barrister Sola Elesin, commended Governor Oyebanji for his leadership style, describing him as a unifier and a bridge builder.

“Governor Oyebanji’s humility, accessibility, and performance in office have endeared him to party members, Ekiti leaders, and the general public,” Elesin said. “The peaceful atmosphere in the party today is a direct result of his inclusive style and respect for party structure. The party is stronger and more united under his watch.”

Present at the meeting were the Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye; Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Habibat Adubiaro; Chief of Staff, Mr. Niyi Adebayo; and Special Adviser on Political Matters, Chief Jide Awe, among other key stakeholders.

As Governor Oyebanji looks ahead to 2026, he reaffirmed his loyalty to the party, his commitment to the people of Ekiti, and his dedication to good governance. He also extended gratitude to President Tinubu for his steady support for Ekiti State and for policies that are already yielding tangible results across the country.

http://nigeriagazette.blogspot.com/2025/08/2026-im-running-again-oyebanji-formally.html

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Veteran Journalist Backs Oyebanji’s Second Term Bid, Says Ekiti Can’t Afford Disruption

Respected journalist and political analyst, Akin Ogunmola, has declared strong support for the re-election of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, describing his second-term ambition as a necessary step to preserve the steady progress currently unfolding across Ekiti State.

Ogunmola, a respected columnist, award-winning broadcast journalist, and fearless public analyst, made this known in a widely circulated opinion piece titled “BAO: Renewing the Mandate, Celebrating Progress, and Empowering the Future.”

He argued that Governor Oyebanji’s second-term aspiration goes beyond politics and should be seen as a collective call to safeguard the gains of inclusive governance, reforms, and infrastructural renewal that the Oyebanji-led administration has delivered since assuming office in 2022.

“Governor Oyebanji gunning for a second term is not just about politics, it’s about sustaining progress,” Ogunmola wrote. “The gains made in the last few years are too critical to be derailed by an abrupt change in leadership and risk uncertainty.”

He referenced the continuity mantra which brought Oyebanji into office, stressing that the same principle remains essential as Ekiti approaches another election cycle.

According to him, the Governor’s achievements under the six pillars of development - Governance, Infrastructure and Industrialization, Agriculture and Rural Development, Knowledge Economy, Social Investments, and Youth Empowerment - have transformed from mere slogans into measurable actions.

“These are not just buzzwords. They have been the blueprint for measurable action,” he added.

Ogunmola also praised the Governor’s inclusive style of leadership, highlighting his regular engagements with former governors, traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society groups, and diaspora Ekiti indigenes as proof of his people-centered governance model.

On social investment, he pointed to initiatives such as support for petty traders, free healthcare for the elderly, and subsidies for pregnant women and children as direct interventions that are touching lives.

He further cited the revamp of public schools, the recruitment of qualified teachers, the rehabilitation of roads across the 16 LGAs, and the successful test operation of the Ekiti Agro-Allied Cargo Airport, among other milestones, as compelling indicators of progress that must not be truncated.

“As a homegrown leader who was part of the creation of the state, BAO has a deep understanding of Ekiti’s needs,” he wrote. “A second term would mean deeper reforms and accelerated development.”

Referencing a Yoruba proverb, “Ti ọmọde ba ṣubú, a wo iwaju; ti àgbàlagbà ba ṣubú, a wo ẹhìn,” Ogunmola urged the people of Ekiti to look back at what Governor Oyebanji has done and weigh it against the noise of opposition.

“It is time to take a look at the performance of Governor Oyebanji in the last few years and decide whether Ekitikete are wrong to be rooting for a second term in office for him,” he wrote.

He concluded his article with a call for the people to rally around the Governor as he seeks to renew his mandate.

“Let’s give progress a second chance. Let’s give continuity a second chance. Let’s give BAO a second term,” Ogunmola appealed.

The Governor had earlier this week formally declared his intention to seek re-election at a meeting with APC stakeholders in Ado Ekiti, stating that he was yielding to “the voice of the people.”

http://naijapulseng.blogspot.com/2025/08/veteran-journalist-ogunmola-backs.html

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Oyebanji Walks the Talk on Healthcare, Storms EKSUTH for Surprise Inspection

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, on Monday paid an unscheduled visit to the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti, to monitor the progress of the ongoing construction of an 80-bed multipurpose ward being executed by his administration.

The Governor, who moved around the site in company of aides, interacted with the site engineer and workers, restating his administration’s commitment to timely delivery and quality execution of all ongoing projects.

“I paid an unscheduled visit to the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH), Ado-Ekiti, to assess the progress of the ongoing construction of the 80-bed multipurpose ward being undertaken by our administration,” the Governor said in a post on his official Facebook page.

“I took time to engage with the site engineer and workers, and I urged them to adhere strictly to the delivery timeline,” he added.

Governor Oyebanji assured that the new ward, when completed, will meet global standards and improve the healthcare delivery system in the state.

“When completed, the new ward will be equipped with modern facilities that will enhance the quality of healthcare services for our people,” he noted.

Highlighting the importance of constant oversight, the Governor emphasized that routine checks, both scheduled and surprise, will remain a core part of his governance model.

“Regular inspection remains an important part of our governance approach, as we continue to prioritise accountability, quality, and value for money in all ongoing projects across the state,” Oyebanji affirmed.

The EKSUTH multipurpose ward is one of several critical health interventions being driven by the Oyebanji-led administration to strengthen public healthcare infrastructure in Ekiti State.

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Ekiti Emerges Safest State in Nigeria - SBM Intelligence Report

…Governor Oyebanji’s inclusive governance credited for sustained peace

Ekiti State has officially emerged as the safest state in Nigeria, according to a fresh report released by SBM Intelligence for the second quarter of 2025.

The report, which captures media-reported killings across Nigeria between April and June 2025, ranked Ekiti lowest on the national casualty chart with just one incident, placing the state at the bottom of the list of 36 states and the FCT.

In stark contrast, states like Borno (571 deaths), Benue (548), and Zamfara (391) topped the list of most affected areas, reflecting the security challenges still prevalent in parts of the country.

Reacting to the data, observers and residents have pointed to the governance style of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) as a major reason behind the calm and secure atmosphere that Ekiti continues to enjoy.

"This is no accident, as Governor Oyebanji’s inclusive, people-first approach has helped to build trust across communities. His consistent support for Amotekun, investment in security infrastructure, and non-discriminatory leadership have all contributed to this outcome,” said a political analyst based in Ado-Ekiti.

From facilitating the establishment of army barracks in Ekiti to re-equipping the Amotekun Corps and Forest Rangers, procuring patrol vehicles, and actively engaging with traditional rulers and youth groups, the BAO-led administration has prioritized peace and security as a non-negotiable foundation for development.

Recall that only recently, the State Executive Council approved over ₦18.5 billion for fresh projects across road construction, electricity, agriculture, and security, reaffirming the administration’s focus on holistic governance.

Also speaking on the development, a senior member of the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers noted:

"We’ve seen governments come and go, but BAO is different. He listens, he acts swiftly, and he doesn’t politicize issues. That’s why there’s peace everywhere."

Civil society groups and development partners have also lauded the state government for creating a peaceful atmosphere conducive for investment, tourism, and social harmony.

As the 2026 governorship and 2027 general elections draw near, Ekiti’s security record is another feather in the cap of the BAO administration, and a clear indication of what leadership rooted in humility, empathy, and integrity can achieve.

http://nigeriagazette.blogspot.com/2025/08/ekiti-emerges-safest-state-in-nigeria.html

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