President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has endorsed Ekiti State Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for re-election, leading a coalition of 18 state governors and top political figures at an All Progressives Congress mega rally in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday. The event, held at the Ekitiparapo Pavilion, drew thousands of APC supporters and marked a high-profile show of unity ahead of Saturday's governorship election. Speaking through Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu described Oyebanji as a prepared and people-centred leader who has upheld institutions and prioritized citizen welfare. He credited the governor's humility and inclusive governance for his broad acceptance across political lines.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised Oyebanji as peaceful and people-oriented, saying his performance has earned national recognition. APC National Campaign Council Chairman Uba Sani highlighted achievements in education, infrastructure, transportation, and workers' welfare as key strengths of Oyebanji's administration. Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, chair of the Progressive Governors' Forum, noted the unprecedented unity behind Oyebanji as evidence of his strong performance. APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda stated that the governor's accomplishments are his greatest campaign asset. Oyebanji, in his response, said he is seeking another term based on the trust given by Ekiti people and pledged accelerated development if re-elected.
Former Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose, a prominent PDP figure, appeared at the rally and reaffirmed his support, citing Oyebanji's inclusive leadership and ability to unite political actors across party lines. He urged the governor to remain magnanimous and continue promoting unity. The rally also featured federal lawmakers, ministers, traditional rulers, and other governors, underscoring the scale of political backing for Oyebanji's re-election bid.
Bola Tinubu is backing a governor whose main achievement, according to the president's own statement, is carrying political actors along rather than delivering transformative projects. While unity is noted, no specific infrastructure, policy or economic outcome was cited as evidence of progress. The endorsement from opposition-aligned Fayose, based solely on inclusiveness, suggests political cohesion may be valued more than measurable development. For Ekiti voters, this means the campaign hinges on perceived harmony, not tangible results.
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