The Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has congratulated Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on his re-election, describing the victory as a resounding endorsement of the governor’s leadership, performance, and commitment to the development of the state.
Bamidele, who served as Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship Election Campaign Council in Ekiti State, said the governor’s renewed mandate would guarantee continuity in governance and accelerate the state’s development agenda.
In a statement issued on Sunday through his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs, the Senate leader described the outcome of the governorship election as “a signpost for a better, brighter and greater Ekiti.”
He noted that Oyebanji’s administration had promoted peace, unity, and political stability, transforming the state’s political landscape from one characterised by division and rivalry into one driven by cooperation and collective progress.
According to Bamidele, one of the governor’s most notable achievements is his ability to bring together political leaders and stakeholders across party lines in pursuit of a common vision for Ekiti’s growth and development.
He particularly praised Oyebanji for maintaining cordial relationships with former governors and other influential political figures, describing the level of harmony among the state’s leadership as uncommon in Nigeria’s political environment.
“The outcome of the election clearly reflects the confidence of the people in Governor Oyebanji’s leadership, commitment to public service, and dedication to the welfare and prosperity of Ekiti people,” Bamidele said.
The Senate leader further noted that Oyebanji had made history as the first governor in Ekiti State to secure consecutive re-election victories since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999.
“Oyebanji’s historic re-election is a testament to his inclusive style of governance and his success in uniting stakeholders across political divides for the advancement of the state,” he added.
Expressing confidence in the governor’s second term, Bamidele said the administration would consolidate ongoing reforms, deepen developmental initiatives, and further position Ekiti as a model of effective governance.
He also commended residents of the state for their peaceful conduct during the election and applauded both the national and state leadership of the APC for their support in securing the governor’s re-election.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Oyebanji winner of Saturday’s governorship election after he secured 319,224 votes. His closest challenger, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Wole Oluyede, polled 40,543 votes, while African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate Dare Bejide garnered 12,872 votes.
Credit: Punch