Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele has extended his congratulations to Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State following his re-election, hailing it as a strong affirmation of his leadership and governance achievements. Bamidele, who led the APC Governorship Election Campaign Council in the state, asserted that Oyebanji’s renewed term would ensure continuity in effective governance and speed up development across Ekiti.
In a statement from his Media and Public Affairs Directorate on Sunday, Bamidele described the victory as a harbinger of a more prosperous and united Ekiti. He highlighted that Oyebanji’s tenure has fostered peace, unity, and stability, transforming the state’s political climate from one marked by division and hostility to a collaborative and synergistic approach to public administration.
The returning officer, FUTA Vice Chancellor Professor Adenike Oladiji, announced the final results at the collation center in Ado-Ekiti on Sunday morning. Oyebanji secured 319,224 votes, far ahead of PDP candidate Dr. Wole Oluyede, who garnered 40,543 votes, and ADC candidate Dare Bejide with 12,872 votes.
Bamidele praised Oyebanji’s unique ability to unite political leaders and stakeholders across party lines, forging a shared vision for the state’s advancement. He specifically lauded the governor for cultivating strong, resilient relationships with former governors and other influential figures, calling the harmony among Ekiti’s leaders a rare achievement in Nigeria’s politics.
He noted that the election outcome perfectly mirrors the public’s confidence in Oyebanji’s leadership, his commitment to governance, and his dedication to the welfare of Ekiti residents. Bamidele pointed out that Oyebanji made history as the first governor to be re-elected consecutively since 1999, a feat attributed to his governance style and his knack for uniting stakeholders across party lines.
Looking ahead, Bamidele expressed optimism that the governor’s second term would consolidate ongoing reforms, deepen development initiatives, and further establish Ekiti as a model of good governance and political stability in Nigeria. He also thanked Ekiti citizens for their peaceful conduct during the election and for showing faith in democracy through active participation. Additionally, he expressed gratitude to the national and state APC leadership for their platform and support that contributed to the victory.