By Amb. Prince Ogungbemi, Chairman, Ajoni LCDA
> “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.”
— Galatians 6:7
In the moral and political theatre of leadership, nothing stands stronger than integrity backed by performance. That timeless biblical truth from Galatians rings especially true as Ekiti marches towards the 2026 gubernatorial elections. For Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO), the path to re-election is not one paved by propaganda or entitlement — it is a reward long-earned through years of dedication, capacity, and unmatched delivery.
A Legacy Rooted in Sacrifice
Many know him as Governor. But long before the title, Biodun Oyebanji was a committed son of Ekiti who played a crucial role in its very creation. As the Secretary of the Committee for the Creation of Ekiti State in 1996, Oyebanji did not just dream of Ekiti — he helped birth it.
This deep-rooted connection has remained the foundation of his governance philosophy: homegrown leadership, tailored development, and grassroots inclusivity. From his earliest days as Special Assistant to Ekiti’s first civilian governor, to his roles as Special Adviser, Chief of Staff, Commissioner, SSG, and eventually Governor, BAO’s political journey is not just long — it is deeply impactful.
The Man the People Trust
Today, Governor Oyebanji is not only the face of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti — he is its heartbeat. His popularity transcends politics; it has become a movement driven by ordinary citizens — artisans, traders, students, civil servants, and rural dwellers who have felt the pulse of his people-first governance.
That is why, when the APC National Working Committee recently disqualified a governorship aspirant believed to be his fiercest rival, the reaction across Ekiti was not surprise — it was relief. Not because Oyebanji feared competition, but because the people never saw any credible alternative. His ticket, now almost certain, reflects the overwhelming grassroots consensus for continuity.
Beyond Rumours, the Truth Stands Tall
In the heat of political desperation, there were attempts to discredit Oyebanji’s popularity — wild claims that President Tinubu or the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, had endorsed another. These were tales spun to distract, not to inform. The people of Ekiti saw through the noise, standing firm with the leader they know, trust, and believe in.
2026 Will Be About Issues, Not Insults
As the countdown begins to the June 20, 2026 election, one thing is clear: this campaign will be based on issues and performance. And in that arena, BAO is undefeated. His achievements are not in press releases — they are visible across all 140 towns and communities in Ekiti.
Let’s take a look at a few game-changers:
Youth Empowerment through Cluster Farming
Over 5,000 youth are now actively engaged in profitable commercial farming. In 2024 alone, they generated over ₦300 million, with average individual savings of ₦2 million every three months. This is real empowerment — not tokenism.
A Booming Economy and IGR Revolution
Once trailing at the bottom of Nigeria’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) chart, Ekiti has soared to 20th position, generating a remarkable ₦30 billion in 2024. The secret? A smart, inclusive, and productive tax policy under Oyebanji.
Infrastructure for All
From road construction to rural electrification, school renovation to health facility upgrades — nearly every town in Ekiti has felt the touch of this administration. Inclusivity is not a slogan here; it is policy in action.
Supporting the Informal Sector
Over ₦1.5 billion has been disbursed to support artisans, traders, and small businesses. Through direct funding and institutional partnerships, Ekiti’s informal economy is thriving.
💰 Pension and Gratuity Reform
With over ₦12 billion spent on pension payments and ₦2.9 billion to clear gratuity backlogs, Oyebanji has shown compassion backed by action. Our retirees can now age with dignity.
📊 Top-Ranked in Fiscal Responsibility
Ekiti has earned the distinction of being Nigeria’s best state in fiscal responsibility and accountability. This is the Oyebanji difference — zero tolerance for waste, full commitment to progress.
The Weakness of the Opposition is Self-Inflicted
One would have expected the opposition in Ekiti to rise to the occasion — to match Oyebanji’s performance with fresh ideas. Instead, what we see is a shambolic, uninspired effort to stay relevant. Their weakness is not the governor’s fault — it is a result of their own lack of vision and disconnection from the people.
Oyebanji’s Victory Is Not Just Likely — It Is Deserved
When the history of modern Ekiti is written, Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji will not just be remembered as a leader — he will be remembered as a builder of hope, a visionary of transformation, and a champion of inclusive growth.
His second term is not just a political ambition; it is a people’s mandate waiting to be renewed. And with every electrified village, every empowered youth, every revived health center, and every paved road, that mandate becomes louder, clearer, and stronger.
Conclusion: Ekiti Is in Safe Hands
The 2026 election will not be a battle of slogans — it will be a referendum on performance. And in that, Governor Oyebanji is unbeatable. Let the naysayers talk. Let the doubters scheme. The people of Ekiti already know where they stand — with BAO, the man who works for them, walks with them, and leads with love.
Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji is not just set for victory — he is the victory.
Amb. Prince Michael Ogungbemi (fcpa) is the Executive Chairman, Ajoni Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Ekiti State.