As the 2026 governorship election cycle begins to gather momentum in Ekiti State, conversations around leadership, performance, and continuity are understandably dominating the political landscape. At the centre of this discourse is the incumbent Governor, His Excellency, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO)—a leader whose style, substance, and sincerity have distinguished him as a transformative figure in the annals of Ekiti governance.
Barely three years into his administration, Governor Oyebanji has etched his name in the minds of the people through calm leadership, people-oriented policies, and visible development across key sectors. As endorsements continue to pour in from critical stakeholders across the state—traditional rulers, professional groups, labour unions, market associations, and community leaders—there emerges an overarching question: Does Governor Oyebanji deserve a second term?
The evidence, when weighed against the performance indicators, leaves little room for doubt.
A Legacy of Humility, Competence, and Continuity
When Governor Oyebanji assumed office in October 2022, few could have predicted the depth of administrative discipline and strategic foresight he would bring to bear on the state’s governance. A product of homegrown political mentorship, Oyebanji’s political career was nurtured under the tutelage of past governors such as Otunba Niyi Adebayo and Dr. Kayode Fayemi. However, it is his own unique leadership identity—shaped by empathy, humility, and intellectual depth—that has earned him widespread respect across party lines.
Unlike many before him who rose to power through brute political force or elaborate propaganda, Oyebanji emerged as a consensus builder and peace ambassador. He brought a calm disposition into the fiery arena of Ekiti politics, a state once notorious for its divisive political culture and endless squabbles.
Governor Oyebanji represents a refreshing return to the revered Omoluabi ethos—anchored on decency, humility, and integrity. His emergence marked a departure from the era of combative politics and returned civility to the public square.
Development Without Drama: Governance That Works
Governor Oyebanji’s style is not one of noise, theatrics, or media stunts. Instead, he has opted for a governance model rooted in consultation, collaboration, and quiet impact.
One of his flagship achievements is the continued advancement of the Ekiti Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, a project initially initiated by the Fayemi administration but brought to life through Governor Oyebanji’s vision and courage. Critics once dismissed the project as political fanfare; today, it stands as a testament to strategic continuity and the power of purpose-driven leadership.
In agriculture, the governor has gone beyond mere rhetoric to reposition the sector as a viable alternative to oil dependency. Under his leadership, Ekiti signed a landmark MOU with Cavista Holdings to boost cassava production. More than 1,500 hectares of land have been allocated to 66 farmers and agribusiness investors, while counterpart funding of N60 million has unlocked over $800,000 in support from the World Bank’s L-PRES livestock programme.
These are not paper statistics—they are real interventions impacting real people.
Human Capital Development and Worker Welfare
Nowhere is Governor Oyebanji’s compassion more evident than in his commitment to workers and pensioners. He inherited billions of naira in gratuity arrears from past administrations, yet he has steadily cleared them without playing to the gallery.
Salaries are paid promptly; pensions are no longer owed. Primary school teachers with degree qualifications now enjoy long-denied promotions to Grade Level 16. Car and housing loan schemes have been revived for teachers and civil servants, enhancing morale and productivity.
For a state often bogged down by fiscal constraints, Governor Oyebanji’s ability to maintain wage obligations and still embark on capital projects speaks to prudent financial management and visionary leadership.
Peace, Inclusion, and Political Maturity
Ekiti, once a theatre of endless political melodrama, is now witnessing an era of unprecedented peace. This did not occur by accident—it is the result of intentional bridge-building across political divides. Governor Oyebanji has consistently consulted past governors, political leaders, elders, and even opposition voices, fostering a culture of mutual respect and shared responsibility.
He has restored dignity to public dialogue and ended the era of governance-by-insult. The noisy, often toxic environment that previously characterised Ekiti politics has given way to meaningful conversations about policies, progress, and the future.
Why a Second Term Matters
There is a temptation during election seasons to prioritise ambition over logic, or emotion over performance. Yet, in a state like Ekiti—where development is hard-won and requires stability—a second term for Governor Oyebanji is not only justified but necessary.
The temptation to throw open the contest within the ruling APC is understandable in a democracy. However, history has shown that internal wrangling often leads to fragmentation, loss of momentum, and missed opportunities. Governor Oyebanji, by every measurable standard, has earned the right to continue the work he has begun.
In the spirit of progress and political maturity, it is imperative that party stakeholders avoid needless distractions and align behind the governor. The 2026 election should be a referendum on performance, not a theatre of ego or entitlement.
A Final Word to the People of Ekiti
As a journalist, political observer, and son of the soil, I have watched successive governments rise and fall in Ekiti. Rarely has a leader combined the traits of competence, humility, and results-driven governance as Governor Oyebanji has done.
He has stabilised the system, calmed political storms, and delivered quietly yet effectively. The Ekiti story is gradually changing from that of volatility to one of vision. The man at the helm has shown that leadership is not about volume but value.
To the good people of Ekiti, now is not the time to experiment with untested promises. Now is not the time to return to the days of drama and disarray. Now is the time to consolidate.
The journey is far from over, but the foundation is solid. Ekiti deserves continuity, and Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji deserves another term to finish what he has begun.
