Ekiti 2026: Oyebanji Says the People’s Voice Echoed Again

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has promised that his second term will deliver more development and better welfare for households across the state.

The governor made the pledge after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced him the winner of Saturday’s governorship election.

Running on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform, Oyebanji described the result as a strong expression of confidence and trust from Ekiti residents.

He said the outcome reflected the electorate’s desire for continuity, peace, stability and sustained development.

According to the governor, the overwhelming support he received places a greater responsibility on his administration to intensify efforts to deliver the dividends of democracy to more communities and citizens.

Oyebanji stressed that the renewed mandate is more than a political victory; it is a call to deepen governance and development at the grassroots level.

“This mandate means that our work must touch every household even deeper,” the governor said.

He added that the election should not be viewed in terms of winners and losers, urging all residents to unite in the collective pursuit of progress and development.

The governor noted that Ekiti people had spoken with one voice across both urban and rural communities, emphasizing their commitment to growth, peace and economic opportunities.

Oyebanji also pledged to continue leading the state with humility, fairness and a dedication to service.

INEC Returning Officer Professor Adenike Oladiji, Vice‑Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, officially declared Oyebanji the winner at about 3:13 a.m. on Sunday.

Oladiji announced that the APC candidate secured 319,224 votes.

His closest rival, Dr. Oluwole Oluyede of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), polled 40,543 votes, while Mr. Dare Bejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) came third with 12,872 votes.

INEC further disclosed that 384,940 voters were accredited for the election.

The commission reported 375,777 valid votes, with 6,332 ballots rejected, bringing the total number of votes cast to 382,109.