Tinubu Lauds Oyebanji as First Ekiti Governor to Win Back-to-Back Re-Election

By Eshioromeh Sebastian

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji on his re-election victory in Saturday’s Ekiti State gubernatorial poll, describing the outcome as a historic mandate that cements the governor’s place in the state’s political history.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President noted that Oyebanji’s overwhelming victory makes him the first governor in Ekiti State’s history to secure re-election back-to-back—a feat that underscores the people’s confidence in his leadership.

“The renewed mandate is therefore a clear vote of confidence in continuity, stability, and people-centred governance,” President Tinubu said.

The President commended the people of Ekiti State for their peaceful and orderly conduct throughout the electoral process, and for reposing their trust in Governor Oyebanji for a second term in office. He also praised law enforcement agencies for maintaining law and order during the exercise.

Reflecting on the governor’s first-term performance, President Tinubu acknowledged significant strides recorded under the BAO agenda across key sectors, including infrastructure, agriculture, youth employment, education, healthcare, and rural development. He expressed optimism that the fresh mandate would enable the governor to consolidate on those achievements in the next four years.

The President urged Oyebanji to remain magnanimous in victory and to carry all Ekiti people along irrespective of political affiliations. He also reached out to opposition candidates who contested the election, calling on them to accept the outcome in the spirit of democratic sportsmanship.

“Those who contested the election with the governor exercised their democratic rights. It is now time to rally round Oyebanji in the task of taking Ekiti to the next level of governance,” the President said.

Looking ahead, President Tinubu charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to sustain its investment in conducting peaceful, free, fair, and credible elections as the nation prepares for the Osun State governorship election scheduled for August, as well as the general election next year.

Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to subnational development, the President pledged continued partnership with the Ekiti State Government to deliver more dividends of democracy and accelerate the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda across Nigeria.

He concluded by offering prayers for God’s wisdom, strength, and good health for Governor Oyebanji as he continues to serve the people of Ekiti State.