Former Lawmaker and chieftain of All Progressive Congress, Senator Ayo Arise, has urged the winner of the Ekiti State governorship election to place the welfare of residents at the centre of governance and focus on addressing the state’s pressing developmental needs.
Speaking with journalists in Oye-Ekiti after casting his vote on Saturday, Arise expressed confidence that Governor Biodun Oyebanji would emerge victorious and make history as the first governor in the state to secure back-to-back re-election victories.
He said such an outcome would provide continuity and enable the governor to consolidate on the achievements of his first term.
According to the APC chieftain, continuity in governance would accelerate development across the state, particularly in critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, healthcare and agriculture. He noted that sustained policies and programmes would help position Ekiti for greater economic growth and improved living standards.
Arise also called on the governor to prioritise industrialisation by attracting investors and establishing industries capable of creating employment opportunities for thousands of youths and other residents. He stressed that the establishment of industries would not only reduce unemployment but also boost the state’s revenue base and overall economic development.
Commenting on the conduct of the governorship election, the former lawmaker commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for ensuring a peaceful and orderly process. He described the poll as largely free, fair and devoid of major incidents, applauding electoral officials and security personnel for their professionalism.
While acknowledging that voter turnout was lower than expected in some areas, Arise said the election remained peaceful and credible. He appealed to all contestants in the race, particularly Governor Oyebanji’s challengers, to accept the outcome in good faith and support the winner in the collective interest of Ekiti people, stressing that good governance and development should take precedence over political differences.
Speaking on his efforts to reclaim what he described as his mandate in the Ekiti North Senatorial primary, Arise said he had submitted sufficient evidence to the party leadership to support his claim and had also instituted legal action within the timeframe prescribed by law.
The former senator expressed confidence that the matter would be resolved in accordance with due process, while urging members of the party in Ekiti State to remain united and focused on strengthening the APC ahead of the 2027 presidential election. He stressed that party cohesion and collective commitment would be crucial to securing victory at the polls.