President Tinubu Says Oyebanji’s Victory Reflects Confidence in Stability and Development
President Bola Tinubu has described Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s re-election in Ekiti State as a strong endorsement of continuity, stability and people-centred governance, following the conclusion of the state’s governorship election.
Oyebanji, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was declared winner of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), securing a second term in office.
The victory makes Oyebanji the first governor in Ekiti State’s history to win back-to-back governorship elections.
Tinubu, through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, congratulated the governor and praised Ekiti voters for conducting themselves peacefully during the poll.
The president also commended security agencies for maintaining order and urged INEC to continue strengthening the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of future elections, including the 2027 general elections.
According to Tinubu, Oyebanji’s first-term performance in infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare, youth employment and rural development contributed to the renewed mandate.
“The renewed mandate is a vote of confidence in continuity, stability and people-centred governance,” the president said.
Oyebanji, in his reaction, described the victory as a fresh responsibility to serve Ekiti people, pledging to govern with humility and focus on improving the welfare of residents.
The governor said his administration would continue implementing its development agenda while responding to emerging needs across the state.
“I understand the responsibility this victory has placed on my shoulders. It is a responsibility of service to the people of Ekiti State,” Oyebanji said.
Opposition Rejects Result, Raises Electoral Concerns
However, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Ambassador Dare Bejide, rejected the election outcome, alleging irregularities including vote-buying, over-voting and voter intimidation.
Bejide said his party would review available evidence before deciding its next legal and political steps.
The allegations have renewed debate over electoral integrity in Nigeria, where concerns about voter inducement and the influence of political resources continue to dominate election discussions.
Observer Groups Praise Process, Raise Red Flags
Election observer group Yiaga Africa said its independent verification process aligned with INEC’s announced results but identified concerns over vote-buying, turnout data inconsistencies and the management of election materials.
The group said its Process and Results Verification for Transparency (PRVT) methodology showed that the official results reflected polling-unit counts.
However, Yiaga Africa warned that voter inducement remained a major threat to democratic credibility and urged stronger enforcement against electoral offences.
It also recommended improvements in election logistics, communication and quality control ahead of future national elections.
Human rights organisation HURIWA also criticised reported cases of violence, intimidation and vote-buying, describing the incidents as threats to democratic confidence.
Political Stability and Economic Implications
Analysts say political stability at the state level remains important for governance, investment confidence and development planning.
A smooth transition into Oyebanji’s second term could provide continuity for ongoing projects, while concerns around electoral practices highlight the need for stronger institutions and public trust.
The Ekiti election therefore represents both a continuation of the current political direction and a reminder of the broader reforms required to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic system.
As Nigeria moves toward the 2027 general elections, observers say improving transparency, reducing voter inducement and strengthening electoral institutions will remain critical priorities.