Ekiti 2026: We’re behind you, ex-govs, others tell Oyebanji

Former Ekiti State governors and other prominent political leaders in the state have assured Governor Biodun Oyebanji of their support ahead of the 2026 governorship election in the state.

The political leaders gave the assurance at an event tagged “An evening with Senator Dayo Adeyeye” in honour of the newly inaugurated Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dayo Adeyeye, in Abuja on Thursday, July 17, 2025.

Speaking on behalf of the former governors in Ekiti State, ex-Governor Ayodele Fayose described Oyebanji as a bridge-builder who has restored peace and unity to the state political landscape.

Fayose stated that the governor’s achievement in the areas of infrastructure, workers’ welfare, education, agriculture, and rural development are visible and verifiable.

While noting that Oyebanji’s people-oriented leadership, humility, and developmental strides have endeared him to the people of Ekiti State, Fayose said the governor has demonstrated uncommon maturity and capacity in managing the affairs of the state.

This, he said, informed the need for every stakeholder to support him for a second term in office.

Fayose maintained that regardless of political affiliation, leaders in the state have recognised the need to support continuity of good governance and stability, which, according to him, Oyebanji represents.

He said: “Your Excellency, you have overwhelmed me with honour and respect, I am not the one that put you there but I will do more than those who put you there when the election comes.

“I will enter the street for you but I will not put your party logo because I will never join your party but we will support you to complete the journey you have started.

“None of us will come and oppose you in this election. Ekiti will be the model in Nigeria. I have spoken to Governor Adebayo, Governor Fayemi, and Governor Segun Oni, we are all with you.”

While congratulating Adeyeye on his appointment as the NPA chairman, Fayose said the recognition was well deserved, adding that it was also a testament to the former senator’s long-standing contributions to national development.

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Also speaking at the event, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele described Oyebanji’s leadership as exemplary and transformational.

Bamidele said the governor’s ability to deliver impactful projects across all sectors, while maintaining transparency and accountability, has earned him the respect and admiration of both the political class and the general public.

Commending the virtues of Adeyeye and noting that his leadership would further strengthen the capacity and efficiency of the NPA, Bamidele said Adeyeye’s wealth of experience, administrative competence, and deep sense of patriotism make him well suited for the job.

In his remarks, Oyebanji thanked the Ekiti leaders for their support and trust in his administration.

The governor described the support as a strong affirmation of unity and shared commitment to the progress of Ekiti State.

He described the event as not just a celebration of Adeyeye’s recent national assignment, but also a testament to the maturity and political harmony that now exists among Ekiti leaders across party lines.

The governor expressed confidence that Adeyeye would bring greater value to the NPA, citing his track record of excellent and integrity as key asset that would contribute to the growth and efficiency of the agency.

“To the management and staff of NPA, you cannot get a better chairman; Ekiti men are loyal, detailed, and we don’t cut deal, we are straightforward but cannot take us for granted. I know that Senator Adeyeye will add value to NPA,” the governor stated

In his response, Adeyeye expressed his appreciation to the governor, Ekiti leaders, and other dignitaries present at the occasion for their support and goodwill.

Adeyeye, who described the event as humbling and overwhelming, assured Oyebanji of his full support for his second-term ambition, pledging to work tirelessly to ensure his victory across Ekiti State.

While thanking President Bola Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him to lead the NPA, Adeyeye assured the Nigerian leader that he will do his job with dedication, integrity, and clear vision to reposition the authority for greater efficiency and global competitiveness.

Also present at the event were former Nasarawa State Governor Tanko Al-Makura, and former and serving senators, among others.

The Star