Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has described his adoption as the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus candidate for the 2026 governorship election as a true reflection of the people’s will and a testament to the party’s internal democracy.
Speaking on ARISE News on Monday, Oyebanji said his affirmation by all 885 APC delegates at a special congress chaired by Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, followed a transparent and lawful process consistent with the APC constitution and the Electoral Act.
“This is a democratic process, and in democracies, there are always contentions. But as a democrat who believes in party supremacy, one must submit to the decision of the party,” he said.
The governor explained that although two aspirants were cleared for the contest, one voluntarily withdrew, paving the way for a consensus decision endorsed by all delegates. He said the process reflected the party’s commitment to peace and inclusivity.
“There’s nothing wrong with the consensus arrangement. It is one of the three recognised methods for choosing candidates. The party should be praised for this innovation, which has removed violence and rancour from our political process,” Oyebanji added.
Responding to questions about his leadership style, the governor said maintaining a low profile was a deliberate choice to focus on service delivery rather than publicity.
“The contract I signed with Ekiti people is to serve, and we have done that diligently in the last three years. The results are visible in our six pillars of administration. That is why people across political divides are endorsing our work,” he stated.
Oyebanji noted that the growing unity among stakeholders was proof that Ekiti people desired continuity of progress, saying: “The people now understand that development slows when governments fail to succeed themselves. By God’s grace, that cycle must be broken.”
On economic issues, the governor dismissed reports that Ekiti has one of the highest inflation rates in Nigeria, insisting that the state records the lowest food inflation in the South-West.
“What is high are non-food items like housing and beverages that come from other states. We are working to attract industries to Ekiti so our people don’t have to depend on external supplies,” he said, adding that the completion of the state’s airport would boost industrialisation and attract investment.
Oyebanji also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to security, describing Ekiti as one of the most peaceful states in Nigeria.
“We won’t take peace for granted. We’ll continue to improve vigilance and community cooperation because development thrives only in a peaceful atmosphere,” he assured.
The governor condemned the recent attack on members of the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), denying any involvement by APC members and calling for a thorough investigation.
“I condemn the attack entirely. It’s not in our character. The police are investigating, and anyone found culpable will face justice,” he said.
Oyebanji also extended an olive branch to a disqualified aspirant, Engineer Kayode Ojo, urging unity within the party.
“I’m reaching out to him personally, and the party leadership is doing the same. It’s a family matter, a storm in a teacup. People are blowing it out of proportion,” he said.
The governor expressed optimism that the APC’s unity and the continued support of Ekiti people would ensure the state’s sustained development beyond 2026.
