Ekiti 2026: My Campaign Will Be Peaceful and Issue-Based, Says Oyebanji

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has assured residents that his campaign ahead of the 2026 governorship election will be conducted in a peaceful and issue-based manner, in full compliance with the Electoral Act. He also urged candidates of other political parties to uphold decency and maintain order throughout the electioneering period.

The governor made this known at the weekend during the monthly Evening of Praise and Worship programme held at Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado-Ekiti. He emphasized the need for peace before, during, and after the election, calling on politicians to avoid violence and smear campaigns that could disrupt the state’s stability.

In a brief address to the congregation, Oyebanji also prayed for the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and expressed hope for the President’s re-election in 2027.

Reflecting on his recent recognition as Governor of the Year (2025) by several reputable media organizations, Oyebanji dedicated the awards to the people of Ekiti State. He noted that the honours were a result of the mandate and support he received from the citizens.

“When the Chaplain mentioned the awards, I realized they are not for me but for the good people of Ekiti,” he said. “Whatever responsibility I carry as Governor is on your behalf. If you had not elected me, there would be no recognition. These awards belong to you, to the glory of God. Your support and prayers made them possible, and I still seek your prayers to continue serving in a way that pleases God.”

With the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) having announced the campaign timetable, the governor urged residents and political actors to remain peaceful and remember that power ultimately comes from God.

“It is good to aspire and to try,” he said, “but if it does not come your way, accept it peacefully. There is no need to destabilize the state. Only God gives power at His appointed time.”

As the June 20 election approaches, Oyebanji reaffirmed his commitment to a lawful and decent campaign as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“I am bound by the Electoral Act. We will not trouble the state. Our campaign will be conducted with decency because we know that power belongs to God,” he stated. “I also invite my co-contestants to operate within the limits of order and civility. If you seek to govern the people, you should not cause them distress. The people will decide, and God will guide us. June 20 will come and go peacefully.”

The governor concluded by urging continued prayers for Ekiti State and for President Tinubu, describing the President as a leader committed to serving the nation and supportive of the state.