BY LAW IBITOYE
A mild drama played out on Thursday at the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Secretariat in Ajilosun , Ado-Ekiti as key party leaders and executives boycotted the official visit of governorship aspirant, Engineer Kayode Ojo, who came to formally declare his intention to contest the 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State.
Despite the absence of top APC officials, Ojo’s visit turned into a carnival-like event as thousands of enthusiastic supporters, political associates, and admirers flooded the secretariat premises, chanting solidarity songs and pledging total support for his ambition.
Dressed in an immaculate white agbada and traditional cap to match, Engineer Ojo arrived at the secretariat shortly after 4:00 p.m. amid tight security and thunderous cheers from his supporters. He expressed appreciation for the massive turnout, describing it as “a sign of genuine love and people’s desire for change.”
“I am not surprised or bothered by the absence of some leaders. What matters most to me is the overwhelming support of ordinary party members and the people of Ekiti. They are the ones who will vote,” Ojo declared to loud applause.
“Despite the government’s attempt to frustrate us with road blockages and restriction of taxis and motorcycles, our people still came out in large numbers. This show of solidarity strengthens my belief that victory is certain.”
Ojo used the gathering to unveil his blueprint for the state, promising a people-driven administration anchored on transparency, economic revival, and inclusive governance.
According to him, his government would focus on industrialization, quality education, healthcare delivery, youth empowerment, and welfare for the elderly, while also prioritizing road infrastructure and agricultural development.
“My administration will not serve a privileged few but the entire Ekiti people. There shall be rain of blessings across our communities,” he stated.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his ongoing reforms, describing him as a visionary leader who has repositioned the nation on a path of progress. Ojo highlighted some of the federal government’s initiatives such as the students’ loan scheme, the removal of fuel subsidy, and the revamping of the economy, stressing that he stood firmly on the president’s progressive mandate.
“I am a strong believer in President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. His courage to make difficult but necessary decisions has started yielding positive results. Ekiti must align with this progressive direction,” he added.
Reacting to reports that key state party executives shunned his visit, Ojo noted that it was unfortunate that “those who should be neutral umpires have openly taken sides with the incumbent governor.” He, however, insisted that the decision of party members at the grassroots would ultimately determine the outcome of the primaries.
He urged his supporters to intensify mobilization across all wards and local governments, saying, “Go back home, talk to our people, and ensure they come out massively to vote during the primary. Our strength lies in the people.”
Earlier in the day, Ado-Ekiti witnessed partial disruption of movement as commercial drivers and motorcyclists withdrew their services,the development forced many residents to trek long distances before reaching their destinations.
In Ojo’s entourage were prominent politicians from within and outside the state, including former members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, party stalwarts from Abuja, and philanthropist, Hon Opeyemi David Falegan (ODF), among others.