By Law Ibitoye
Residents of Ekiti State on Thursday defied alleged attempts by transport unions to stop them from attending the official declaration of Engineer Kayode Olubunmi Ojo, popularly known as EKO, which took place at the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Secretariat in Ado Ekiti.
Despite reported efforts by members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) to restrict movement into the state capital, supporters of the APC governorship aspirant turned out in large numbers from various local government areas to show their support.
A tour of major roads in Ado Ekiti — including Ajilosun, Okesa, Adebayo, Basiri, and both the old and new Iyin Roads — showed a noticeable decline in commercial transport activities. Many residents were seen trekking long distances or waiting patiently by the roadside for available taxis and motorcycles.
At the Kayode Ojo Campaign Office in Ajilosun, along Ikere Road, Ado Ekiti, a massive crowd of enthusiastic supporters gathered, displaying banners and chanting solidarity songs in support of Ojo’s political ambition ahead of the APC governorship primary slated for October 27, 2025.
Speaking with journalists, several residents condemned the situation, describing it as undemocratic and a violation of their right to free movement and association. They maintained that every citizen should be free to participate in political events of their choice without intimidation or restriction.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Ekiti State Command, CP Joseph Eribo, has assured residents of adequate security and urged them to go about their normal activities without fear.
Addressing journalists in Ado Ekiti, CP Eribo warned against any acts capable of disrupting the peace of the state.