—- As Party Leaders, Former Governors Declare Support
The All Progressives Congress, APC, on Monday flagged off its campaign for the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, as governors and party leaders declared support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s re-election bid.
The flag-off ceremony, held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti, was attended by thousands of party supporters, federal and state lawmakers, and APC stakeholders from across the country.
Governor Oyebanji, accompanied by his wife, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, and Deputy Governor Mrs. Monisade Afuye, told the gathering that his administration had delivered on key campaign promises over the last three and a half years.
He credited the state’s progress to deliberate planning, focused leadership, and collaboration with the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani described the election as a choice between “continuity and disruption” and urged Ekiti voters to support a government with a record of performance. He said governance should be measured by impact rather than promises.
Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, called for an overwhelming mandate for Oyebanji and assured residents of the APC’s nationwide support. Other governors in attendance echoed the call for continuity to sustain ongoing development projects in the state.
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who chairs the campaign committee, described the event as a demonstration of unity and leadership. He characterized Oyebanji as a “bridge-builder” who has fostered political harmony in the state and pledged intensified grassroots mobilization ahead of the polls.
Former Ekiti governors also endorsed the re-election bid. Dr. Kayode Fayemi expressed confidence in Oyebanji’s leadership, while Engr. Segun Oni urged massive voter turnout. Ayodele Fayose, a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, said his attendance was motivated by the “Ekiti agenda” and the need to prioritize the state’s development above party lines. Elder statesman Niyi Adebayo described the campaign as a collective mission of Ekiti people.
APC State Chairman, Barr. Elesin Omoleye, said the flag-off marked a renewed commitment to sustain growth and development in the state. He added that campaign coordinators would mobilize support across all local government areas.
Religious leaders, including representatives of the Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, and Muslim groups, offered prayers for peaceful campaigns and elections.
Dignitaries at the rally included Governors Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi, Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo, Monday Okpebholo of Edo, and Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, as well as members of the National Assembly and party executives.
The rally concluded with party leaders expressing confidence in the APC’s chances in the 2026 governorship election.
