By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, on his resounding victory in Saturday’s governorship election, describing the outcome as a reflection of the confidence reposed in him by the people of the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President also commended the people of Ekiti State for their peaceful conduct throughout the electoral process.
Tinubu praised voters for exercising their democratic rights in an orderly manner and for giving Governor Oyebanji a renewed mandate to continue leading the state.
The President equally lauded security agencies for maintaining law and order before, during and after the election, thereby contributing to the peaceful atmosphere that characterized the exercise.
He also charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to sustain its efforts in delivering peaceful, free, fair and credible elections as the nation prepares for the Osun State governorship election in August and the 2027 general elections.
According to the President, Governor Oyebanji’s overwhelming victory marks a historic milestone in Ekiti State politics, making him the first governor in the state’s history to secure back-to-back re-election victories.
Tinubu noted that the governor’s first term was distinguished by remarkable achievements in critical sectors, including infrastructure development, agriculture, youth employment, education, healthcare and rural development under the administration’s BAO Agenda.
“The renewed mandate is a clear vote of confidence in continuity, stability and people-centred governance,” the President stated.
He urged Governor Oyebanji to remain magnanimous in victory and ensure that all segments of the state are carried along as he begins another four-year term in office.
The President stressed the need for inclusiveness and unity, saying the election should serve as a platform for bringing all stakeholders together in the collective pursuit of the state’s development.
Tinubu also commended other candidates who participated in the election, describing their involvement as an important contribution to the democratic process.
He noted that with the election concluded, it was time for all political actors and stakeholders to unite behind the governor in advancing the growth and progress of Ekiti State.
The President further reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government to working closely with the Ekiti State Government in delivering more dividends of democracy to the people.
According to him, collaboration between both governments would help accelerate the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda and deepen socio-economic development across the state.
Tinubu concluded by praying for divine wisdom, strength and good health for Governor Oyebanji as he embarks on another term of service to the people of Ekiti State.
The APC candidate, Governor Oyebanji, was declared winner of the election after securing 319,224 votes to defeat his closest challenger, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Mr. Wole Oluyede, who polled 40,543 votes.
The election, conducted across the 16 local government areas of the state, was generally adjudged peaceful by election observers, security agencies and political stakeholders.
