Tinubu backs Oyebanji as the president urges Ekiti voters to re-elect the governor, citing his performance and inclusive leadership

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday urged the people of Ekiti State to re-elect Governor Biodun Oyebanji in Saturday’s governorship election, describing the incumbent as a leader who has demonstrated competence, humility and commitment to the welfare of the people.

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Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the grand finale of the campaign of the All Progressives Congress in Ado-Ekiti, Tinubu said Oyebanji had proven himself worthy of a second term through his performance in office and his ability to unite political stakeholders across the state.

The President praised Ekiti residents for their loyalty to the APC over the years and said the state was fortunate to have a leader who understands the demands of governance and remains connected to the people.

“Governor Oyebanji is a man who understands the nitty-gritty of leadership. He believes you have to be in good accord with farmers, traders, students and even the downtrodden as a leader,” Tinubu said through Shettima.

“He has carried himself with humility and led with patience. He came prepared for governance and has kept the machinery of government focused on the people.”

The President cited projects executed by the administration, including road infrastructure, and commended the governor’s relationship with former governors and traditional rulers, describing it as evidence of inclusive leadership.

Tinubu also expressed confidence in Oyebanji’s electoral prospects, saying the absence of visible opposition campaign materials reflected the governor’s popularity among the electorate.

The rally drew a powerful gathering of APC leaders, including 18 governors, 24 senators, members of the House of Representatives and top party officials from across the country.

Among those present were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda, and governors from several APC-controlled states.

Akpabio described Oyebanji as a peaceful and people-oriented leader whose achievements had resonated across Ekiti State.

“On Saturday, don’t sit back at home. Go out and vote for him and, by next year, go out again and vote for President Tinubu,” the Senate President told supporters.

Chairman of the APC National Campaign Council and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani said the governor’s popularity had made victory virtually certain, adding that his administration had recorded notable progress in education, workers’ welfare, transportation and infrastructure development.

Similarly, Chairman of the APC Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma said APC governors were united in support of Oyebanji, describing the backing he enjoys across the state as a reflection of public confidence in his administration.

APC National Chairman Yilwatda praised the governor’s performance, citing investments in roads, healthcare and education as reasons for the strong support he continues to enjoy.

Responding, Oyebanji said he was seeking re-election based on his administration’s record and the promises fulfilled since assuming office in 2022.

Flanked by his wife, Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, and Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, the governor urged residents to remain peaceful during the election and assured them that a second term would deliver even greater development.

“I have kept faith with the promises and social contract signed with the people of Ekiti. The next four years will be even more remarkable,” he said.

A notable moment at the rally came from former Ekiti governor and Peoples Democratic Party chieftain Ayodele Fayose, who reiterated his support for Oyebanji despite his party affiliation.

Fayose praised the governor’s unifying approach to leadership and expressed confidence that he would make history by securing another term in office.

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Saturday’s governorship election is expected to test the strength of the APC in Ekiti, with party leaders expressing optimism that the widespread support showcased at the rally will translate into a decisive victory at the polls.