By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti
Ahead of the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State, key political figures including former Governors and the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, have declared unwavering support for the incumbent Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, assuring him of a united front across party lines.
The assurance was given on Thursday evening in Abuja during a political convergence tagged “An Evening with Senator Dayo Adeyeye,” held in honour of the newly inaugurated Chairman of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Senator Dayo Adeyeye.
Speaking on behalf of former governors of the state, former Governor Ayodele Fayose described Oyebanji as a bridge-builder who has restored peace and unity to the Ekiti political space. He commended the Governor for his achievements in infrastructure, education, rural development, agriculture, and workers’ welfare, stressing that his track record is visible and verifiable.
Fayose noted that Oyebanji’s humility, people-centred leadership, and inclusive style of governance have earned him goodwill from stakeholders and the public alike. According to him, the Governor has shown uncommon maturity and competence in handling the affairs of the state, hence deserving of a second term.
“Your Excellency, you have overwhelmed me with honour and respect. I may not have put you in office, but I will do more than those who did when election time comes. I will enter the streets for you, but I won’t carry your party’s logo — I will never join your party — yet we will support you to complete the journey you’ve started.
“No one among us will contest against you in this election. Ekiti will be a model for the rest of Nigeria. I have spoken to Governors Adebayo, Fayemi, and Segun Oni — we are all with you,” Fayose stated.
On Senator Adeyeye’s appointment, Fayose congratulated him, describing it as a deserved recognition of his long-standing service to national development. He hailed Adeyeye as a seasoned politician and technocrat whose wealth of experience would positively impact the maritime sector and enhance Ekiti’s visibility at the federal level.
Corroborating Fayose’s remarks, Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, described Oyebanji’s administration as exemplary and transformative. He lauded the Governor’s delivery of impactful projects across sectors, his commitment to transparency, and accountability, which he said have earned him respect across political divides.
Bamidele also commended Senator Adeyeye’s leadership qualities, affirming that his competence, patriotism, and administrative experience will significantly bolster the capacity and performance of the Nigerian Ports Authority.
In his address, Governor Oyebanji expressed appreciation to the Ekiti political leaders for their show of support and unity. He described their gesture as a strong testament to the collective commitment to the state’s progress, regardless of political affiliation.
“This is not just a celebration of Senator Adeyeye’s appointment, but also a reflection of the political maturity and unity that now prevail among Ekiti leaders,” the Governor remarked.
He further expressed confidence in Adeyeye’s ability to bring value to the NPA, citing his integrity and track record as assets that will drive growth and efficiency within the agency.
“To the NPA management and staff, you cannot get a better Chairman. Ekiti men are loyal, detailed, and straightforward. We don’t cut deals, but we should not be taken for granted. I know Senator Adeyeye will add value to NPA,” Oyebanji asserted.
In his response, Senator Adeyeye expressed gratitude to Governor Oyebanji, Ekiti leaders, and other dignitaries present, describing the event as both humbling and overwhelming. He pledged his full support for Governor Oyebanji’s re-election bid and vowed to mobilise support across all local government areas to ensure his victory.
He also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him to lead the Nigerian Ports Authority, assuring that he would discharge his duties with integrity, vision, and commitment to repositioning the agency for global competitiveness.
Dignitaries at the event included former Governor of Nasarawa State, Senator Tanko Al-Makura, and several serving and former senators.