..says victory reflects confidence in APC, Tinubu

Governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have congratulated Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on his overwhelming victory in the state's governorship election, describing the outcome as a reflection of his performance and the confidence of the people in his administration.

Among those who celebrated the governor's re-election were Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors' Forum, Hope Uzodinma; Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun; and Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele.

Chairman of the Progressive Governors' Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, said the victory was a clear endorsement of Oyebanji's achievements and the APC's commitment to good governance.

Speaking at the Ekiti State Government House in Ado-Ekiti after the declaration of the election results, Uzodinma said the outcome demonstrated that Nigeria's democracy was becoming stronger and more sustainable.

The Imo governor noted that the massive support received by Oyebanji across the state reflected the people's confidence in the APC-led government and its programmes.

He said: "Our democracy continues to grow steadily, with significant achievements being recorded across various sectors. The economy is becoming stronger, our political system is evolving into a more sustainable one, and for these milestones, we give all glory to Almighty God.

"As a party, we are delighted with the outcome of this election. We congratulate Governor Biodun Oyebanji on this remarkable victory, which is a clear testament to the outstanding performance he has delivered in Ekiti State.

"The massive turnout of our supporters across the state and their overwhelming support for our party reflect the confidence the people have in our government and its programmes. This victory is a strong endorsement of the progress we are making.

"We are proud as a party, proud as Progressive Governors, and proud that one of our own has demonstrated through his performance that good governance remains the hallmark of the All Progressives Congress."

Uzodinma also congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as his steadfast leadership, saying the victory further affirmed the progress being recorded under the APC.

He expressed optimism that Oyebanji would continue to provide quality leadership, praying that God grants him the wisdom and strength to deliver more development to the people of Ekiti State.

Also reacting, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State described Oyebanji's re-election as well deserved, saying he had long been confident that the governor would secure a second term.

He praised the conduct of the election, describing it as peaceful, fair and transparent.

According to him, the impressive turnout of voters and the orderly conduct of the exercise underscored the maturity of Nigeria's democratic process.

Abiodun said: "That Governor Oyebanji will win a second term and win it so convincingly. The percentage of victory is almost 90 per cent. Almost 90 per cent.

"I rejoice with him. I rejoice with the good people of Ekiti State. I rejoice with the All Progressives Congress, particularly our National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, the Chairman of the Progressive Governors' Forum, our President, and all the good people of Nigeria.

"This is democracy at work. The process was fair, transparent, and peaceful. We went around yesterday, we saw the turnout of people, and we truly commend the umpires, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), for conducting such a fair and transparent process.

"We also want to take this opportunity to commend the law enforcement agencies because there was no case of anybody as much as stepping on another person. I went around yesterday, and the law enforcement agencies were on top of their game. Everything went very well.

"This is an indication of what the 2027 elections will look like going forward, and we are excited about the future of our polity and Nigeria."

The Ogun governor also commended security agencies for maintaining peace throughout the election, noting that there were no reports of major disturbances.

Abiodun further congratulated Oyebanji, his family, cabinet members and APC supporters in Ekiti and across the country, describing the outcome as a victory for good governance and democratic consolidation.

Similarly, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele described Oyebanji's re-election as a clear endorsement of his leadership style and governance record.

Bamidele, who chaired the APC Governorship Election Campaign Council in Ekiti State, said the governor's renewed mandate would ensure continuity in governance and accelerate development across the state.

He attributed Oyebanji's electoral success to his ability to foster peace, unity and political stability in the state, noting that the governor had transformed Ekiti's political landscape from one characterised by division and hostility to one driven by cooperation and collaboration.

According to him, one of Oyebanji's most remarkable achievements has been his capacity to unite political leaders and stakeholders across party lines around a common vision for the state's development.

"The outcome of the election perfectly reflects the confidence of the people in Oyebanji's leadership, commitment to public governance, and dedication to the welfare and prosperity of Ekiti people at large.

"Oyebanji's approach to governance and politics significantly contributed to his re-election. He made history in Ekiti State as the first governor to secure back-to-back re-election since 1999, a testament to his style of governance and his ability to unite stakeholders across party lines," he added.