Governor Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has called on leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to support his bid to break what he described as the state’s long-standing “second-term jinx”.
The governor stated this while submitting his nomination and expression of interest forms at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja.
While officially declaring his intention to seek re-election in the 2026 governorship race in Ekiti State, Governor Oyebanji was accompanied by prominent Ekiti stakeholders, including Senator Michael Bamidele.
He said no administration in Ekiti has ever completed two consecutive terms, a political trend he believes has hampered consistent development in the state.
“This has slowed our development. We are here to plead that this jinx be broken, to maintain the gains of the current administration and continue the progress for our people,” Governor Oyebanji stated.
He stressed that continuity was crucial to building on the achievements of his administration, which he said was focused on infrastructure, healthcare, electricity access, and public sector reforms.
Achievement
Reflecting on his administration’s achievements, Governor Oyebanji said, “When we campaigned three years ago, it was on the mantra of continuity for shared prosperity. In less than three years, we have completed nearly 80% of inherited projects, improved infrastructure, connected over 60 communities to electricity, and upgraded healthcare facilities across the state.”
The Governor also highlighted plans for education reform and technology-driven learning.
“We are determined to provide modern learning tools in schools and prepare our people for the challenges of the 21st century,” he said.
Governor Oyebanji also lauded President Bola Tinubu for his support of Ekiti State.
He says, “I give all glory to God for a day like this and thank President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support for Ekiti State,” Governor Oyebanji said. “All accolades belong to the President, who provided the reforms and resources that allow us to meet the aspirations of our people.”
Party Unity
The Governor acknowledged the unity of the party and the support of its leaders.
“To our leaders in the party, you have listened to the people. I have nothing to add to what has been said. This event also shows how much our people have mobilised behind APC, and it assures us that the party is strong in Ekiti.”
He further emphasised his commitment to party rules and fair primaries.
“We will subject ourselves to primary elections and play by the rules. There is no fear. We recognise the right of any loyal party member to contest, but we are confident in the national leadership of the APC,” he said.
On rumours of party division, Governor Oyebanji dismissed claims of discord, noting the strong show of support from former governors, deputy governors, legislators, and party stakeholders.
“Ekiti APC remains united and indivisible. Talk of division is mere propaganda,” he affirmed.
Senator Michael Bamidele, who also addressed journalists, praised the administration’s achievements.
“Our governor has delivered on infrastructure, human capital development, and stability. This is the first time we are seeing such a broad consensus among all stakeholders in Ekiti. We look forward to the primaries on October 27 and invite everyone to witness the progress firsthand,” he said.
The APC governorship primaries in Ekiti are scheduled for October 27, 2025.
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