Victor Akinkuolie, Ado-Ekiti

The Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Mrs Monisade Afuye, has called on all support groups campaigning for the re-election of Governor Biodun Oyebanji in 2026 to remain unwavering in their loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Mrs Afuye highlighted the overwhelming victory secured by Governor Oyebanji in the 2022 governorship election, where he triumphed in 15 out of the 16 local government areas. She expressed confidence that the 2026 election could yield even greater success with collective efforts towards his re-election campaign.

The deputy governor made the remarks on Thursday while receiving members of the Progressive Grassroots Development and Support Foundation, a pro-Oyebanji group, during their visit to her office in Ado Ekiti, the state capital.

Addressing the group, Mrs Afuye, through a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Media, Victor Ogunje, commended their dedication to campaigning across the state’s 177 wards and over 2,000 polling units, enhancing Governor Oyebanji’s popularity.

She lauded the group’s intensified grassroots campaigns, aimed at showcasing the achievements of the current administration to ensure the government’s policies are better understood and embraced by the populace.

While acknowledging the APC’s strong performance and public support, Mrs Afuye cautioned against underestimating the opposition in the forthcoming election. She stressed the importance of working collaboratively with all interest groups to secure a resounding victory.

“You have been working very hard, but I want you to work even harder. I appreciate your strategy of engaging directly with the grassroots to highlight Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s achievements and development strides.

“With the feedback we are receiving, your efforts are resonating well with the people. However, do not relent. The key is to maintain loyalty to our governor and party. Rest assured, your commitment will be recognised and rewarded by the party,” she stated.

The group’s coordinator, Mrs Rachael Babatunde, commended the deputy governor for her steadfast loyalty to Governor Oyebanji, describing it as instrumental to the stability and progress achieved by the administration.

Mrs Babatunde emphasised that the group’s unwavering support for the governor stemmed from his impressive performance and the tangible benefits his leadership has brought to the people.

“This group is campaigning wholeheartedly because we believe in Governor Oyebanji as a worthy candidate to present to the electorate.

“We are fully aware of the governor’s popularity, but through our consistent efforts across towns, wards, and units, we aim to amplify his appeal and ensure a seamless re-election in 2026,” Babatunde affirmed.