Oyebanji Secures Second Term in Ekiti as Governor Promises Deeper Development Across State

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has pledged to strengthen development efforts and improve the quality of life of residents after securing a second term mandate in the 2026 governorship election.

The governor made the commitment after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officially declared him the winner of the election, describing the victory as a reflection of the confidence and support of Ekiti people.

Oyebanji, who contested under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said the outcome of the election represents more than a political victory, but a renewed responsibility to deliver stronger governance, expand opportunities, and ensure that development reaches communities across the state.

According to the governor, the renewed mandate shows that residents are seeking continuity, stability, and sustained progress. He promised that his administration would focus on policies and projects that directly impact families and local communities.

“This mandate means that our work must touch every household even deeper,” Oyebanji stated, emphasizing that the next phase of his administration would prioritize wider public benefits.

INEC Announces Final Election Results

The electoral commission declared Oyebanji winner in the early hours of Sunday, with the Returning Officer for the election, Professor Adenike Oladiji, announcing the final results at about 3:13 a.m.

The APC candidate recorded a total of 319,224 votes to defeat his major challengers.

Dr. Oluwole Oluyede of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) came second with 40,543 votes, while Dare Bejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) finished third with 12,872 votes.

INEC reported that 384,940 voters were accredited for the election. The commission recorded 375,777 valid votes, while 6,332 votes were rejected, bringing the total number of votes cast to 382,109.

Governor Calls for Unity After Election

Following the announcement, Oyebanji urged residents to move beyond political divisions and focus on collective efforts toward building the future of Ekiti State.

He said the election should not be viewed as a contest with permanent winners and losers, but as a democratic process where the interest of the people remains the priority.

The governor noted that support came from different parts of the state, including urban and rural communities, describing the result as an indication of the people’s desire for peace, economic growth, and improved opportunities.

What the Second Term Means for Ekiti

The governor’s second term is expected to place greater attention on areas such as infrastructure, economic development, public services, and grassroots projects.

Political observers say the renewed mandate also places higher expectations on the administration, as residents will be looking for stronger delivery and measurable results during the next phase of governance.

Oyebanji assured citizens that he would continue leading with humility, fairness, and commitment to public service as he begins another chapter in his leadership of the state.