Tinubu urges Ekiti residents to re‑elect Oyebanji for a second term in 2026.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s performance, telling Ekiti voters that the governor entered office fully prepared to serve the people.

Speaking ahead of the June 20 governorship election, Tinubu urged residents to re‑elect Oyebanji for a second term.

The endorsement was delivered on Tuesday at the All Progressives Congress mega rally in Ado‑Ekiti. The venue was packed with party faithful, allies from other political groups, and supporters across religious and ethnic lines, all showing solidarity with Oyebanji’s re‑election bid.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu praised Ekiti citizens for their loyalty to the APC over the years.

He described the state as fortunate to have Oyebanji at the helm, noting that the governor’s actions and policies demonstrate that true leadership is about serving people, not oppressing them or undermining their rights.

Tinubu highlighted Oyebanji’s humility, patience, and respect for traditional rulers and past leaders, pointing out the absence of opposition posters across the state as a sign of Oyebanji’s wide acceptance.

“On Saturday, go out and re‑elect this humble and peaceful man to further serve you better,” Shettima said on Tinubu’s behalf. The President then symbolically handed Oyebanji over to former governors and first ladies, urging them to secure victory for him.

APC National Campaign Council chairman and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani described Oyebanji’s popularity as electrifying.

APC Governors Forum chairman and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma said the party’s visibility in Ekiti was unmatched, noting that only the APC had campaigned market to market and house to house.

APC National Chairman Prof Nentawe Yilwadta insisted the party’s confidence was rooted in Oyebanji’s connection to the people, not merely in being the ruling party.

Governor Oyebanji, visibly elated, joined by his wife Dr Olayemi Oyebanji and Deputy Monisade Afuye, said he was not relying on federal might but on his record and the promises he has kept since 2022.

He appealed for a peaceful election and promised that his second term would surpass the achievements of the last three and a half years.