Fayose’s Position on Oyebanji Gains Backing as PDP NWC Member Bisi Kolawole Distances Party from Oluyede

Opposition Alignment Signals Possible 95% Landslide for Oyebanji in June 20 Ekiti Governorship Election

The position earlier expressed by former Ekiti State Governor, Ayo Fayose, on the need for continuity in the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji has gained fresh weight following remarks by a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Working Committee, Bisi Kolawole.

Fayose, widely regarded as the undisputed leader of the PDP in Ekiti State, had openly declared his support for the continuation of Oyebanji’s administration, stressing that the state should not interrupt the progress being recorded under the current government.

According to him, allowing the governor to complete a second term would help consolidate ongoing development projects and prevent the cycle of abandoned programmes that often accompanies abrupt changes in leadership.

“The state cannot afford to disrupt the progress already achieved,” Fayose had said while explaining his position. “Continuity is necessary to consolidate developmental gains and give ongoing programs the time and stability they require to produce meaningful results.”

However, the conversation within the party took a sharper turn at the weekend when Kolawole, who serves on the PDP National Working Committee, spoke shortly after the party’s congress that produced a new state executive in Ekiti.

Kolawole reaffirmed the party’s alignment with its national leadership, while also acknowledging Fayose’s influence within the Ekiti chapter of the PDP.

“PDP is alive,” Kolawole said. “We believe in our national leader, Nyesom Wike. The leader here, Ayo Fayose, who happens to be Wike’s friend there, they are leading us right and we are happy about it.”

When asked by reporters to offer advice to the person being projected in some quarters as the PDP governorship candidate in Ekiti, Dr. Wọle Oluyede, Kolawole dismissed the claim, saying he was unaware of any such candidate.

“I am not aware of anything about him,” Kolawole said. “I am not aware that the party has a candidate for the June 20 governorship election. I don’t have any idea and I don’t have any advice for him. He’s on his own, not known by the PDP.”

He added that as a member of the party’s National Working Committee, he could not comment on a situation that, according to him, does not officially exist within the party structure.

“As far as I am concerned as a member of the NWC, I cannot offer advice in a situation I don’t know what’s happening,” he said.

Kolawole’s remarks have further reinforced the political direction already hinted at by Fayose, whose position on the need for continuity in Ekiti governance has continued to shape discussions within the PDP ranks in the state.

His remarks have now removed whatever ambiguity existed around the direction of the party in Ekiti. With the endorsement earlier expressed by former governor Ayo Fayose and the validation coming from a member of the PDP National Working Committee, Bisi Kolawole, the alignment within the opposition camp appears settled.

The implication is that the traditional voting bloc of the major opposition party is drifting toward the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji.

With the structure of the PDP in Ekiti firmly under the influence of Fayose and with national figures within the party openly acknowledging his leadership, the likelihood is that the bulk of the party’s electoral strength will ultimately line up behind the governor in the June 20 governorship election.

As things stand politically in Ekiti today, Oyebanji appears poised for what could become one of the most decisive victories in the state’s electoral history. The governor could record an unprecedented landslide, potentially securing as much as 95 percent of the votes and sweeping polling units across the state in a convincing show of political dominance.

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A Heartfelt Tribute to a Distinguished Statesman!

To His Excellency Dr. John Kayode Fayemi,

Sir, on the occasion of your 61st birthday, I am honored to extend my warmest congratulations! Your remarkable journey is a testament to your dedication, vision, and unwavering commitment to public service.

As a two-time Governor of Ekiti State, former Minister of Solid Minerals, and Chairman of the Nigerian Governors' Forum, you've left an indelible mark on our nation. Your leadership has inspired countless individuals, and your legacy continues to shape Nigeria's future.

Your contributions to Ekiti State's development are immeasurable. You've championed education, infrastructure, and economic growth, transforming the state into a hub of progress. Your national leadership has fostered collaboration, promoted unity, and driven development.

Sir, your life is a shining example of integrity, humility, and service. You've demonstrated that true leadership is about empowering others and putting the nation first. I'm grateful for your service and inspired by your vision.

As you celebrate this milestone, I pray for God's continued blessings, good health, and wisdom. May this new chapter bring you joy, fulfillment, and opportunities to continue making a difference.

Happy 61st birthday, Your Excellency! May God bless you and your family.

Warm regards,

Sir Stephen Ojo Oribamise

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Oyebanji Joins Tinubu, APC Governors as Party Inaugurates Conflict Resolution Committee Ahead of 2027

December 25, 2025 

Governor of Ekiti State, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, on Wednesday joined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, other APC governors and key leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the inauguration of the party’s Strategy, Conflict Resolution and Mobilization Committee.

The inauguration took place at President Tinubu’s residence in Lagos and forms part of early efforts by the APC leadership to strengthen internal cohesion as the party prepares for the 2027 general elections.

The committee was constituted to proactively address disputes, manage internal disagreements and harmonise interests within the party, with a view to sustaining unity and focus across all levels.

Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, was named Chairman of the committee, while former APC National Legal Adviser, Dr Muiz Banire, will serve as Secretary.

Other members of the committee include the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma; Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State; Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State; Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State; and Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State.

Governor Oyebanji’s inclusion in the high-powered committee is widely seen as a reflection of his growing influence within the APC and on the national political stage.

Party stakeholders point to his reputation as a calm political strategist, an effective bridge-builder and a trusted leader who commands respect across different tendencies within the party.

The committee is expected to play a critical role in stabilising the party ahead of the next electoral cycle, with members bringing a mix of experience in governance, party administration and conflict management.

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EAF Congratulates Governor Oyebanji as Commercial Flights Begin at Ekiti Agro-Allied International Airport

The Ekiti Advancement Frontiers (EAF) has congratulated the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, and the good people of Ekiti State on what it described as a “watershed moment” in the history of the Land of Honour, following the commencement of scheduled commercial flights at the Ekiti State Agro-Allied International Airport.

United Nigeria Airlines made the historic inaugural commercial flight from Abuja to Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday, marking the official start of full operations at the facility. EAF said the development represents a major step forward for the state and a clear demonstration of the governor’s commitment to meaningful development.

In a statement signed by its Press Officer, Richard Akinpelumi, the group noted that the milestone reflects Governor Oyebanji’s “unwavering commitment to projects continuity, infrastructure development, and the economic revitalization of the state.”

“This achievement is a testament to Governor Oyebanji’s unwavering commitment to projects continuity, infrastructure development, and the economic revitalization of the state,” the statement said. “The commencement of full commercial operations at this facility is not merely about air travel; it is a strategic economic catalyst that will redefine the state’s future.”

EAF highlighted the airport’s distinct agro-allied function, pointing out that it will play a critical role in helping Ekiti export its rich agricultural produce to international markets.

“As an Agro-Allied facility, this airport will serve as a critical gateway for exporting Ekiti’s rich agricultural produce - such as cocoa, kolanut, timber, oil palm and others - to international markets, thereby reducing post-harvest losses and increasing state revenue,” the group said.

Beyond agriculture, the organisation spoke on how the facility will boost tourism, promote ease of travel and strengthen the state’s knowledge and healthcare sectors.

“With flight times from Lagos and Abuja now cut to under 45 minutes, Ekiti’s premier tourist destinations, including the Ikogosi Warm Springs and Arinta Waterfalls, are now easily accessible to the world,” it noted.

“The airport will provide seamless connectivity for professionals, students, and patients visiting the state’s world-class institutions, including Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) and its Multi-System Hospital, furthering Ekiti’s reputation as the Fountain of Knowledge.”

EAF said the improved accessibility positions the state strongly for investment opportunities.

“The ease of connectivity eliminates a major barrier for investors, opening up the state to foreign direct investment (FDI) and stimulating the growth of local industries,” the statement added.

The group acknowledged the contributions of past administrations in initiating the project, while praising Governor Oyebanji for his focus in bringing it to completion.

“We commend the vision of previous administrations for initiating this project and applaud Governor Oyebanji for his focus and determination in seeing it to fruition. This is a victory for continuity in governance and a giant stride towards shared prosperity.”

EAF encouraged Ekiti people across the world to leverage the new opportunities the airport presents.

“We urge all Ekiti indigenes, home and abroad, as well as investors, to take full advantage of this new gateway to drive development across the state,” the group concluded.

Signed:
Richard Akinpelumi
Press Officer, Ekiti Advancement Frontiers
December 10, 2025

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BAO Confirmed as APC Candidate for Ekiti 2026, Kayode Ojo’s Claims Debunked

By Bidemi Martins

The APC Integrity Caucus, in its press statement issued on Tuesday, has confirmed that Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji (BAO) is officially the party’s candidate for the Ekiti 2026 Governorship Election, dismissing recent social media claims suggesting otherwise. The party described these claims as false and misleading.

According to the caucus, “Submission of nomination forms (EC9/EC9B) runs from 28 November to 22 December 2025, with publication of personal particulars scheduled for 29 December. Candidate withdrawals or replacements close on 12 January 2026, and the final submission of nomination forms (EC18B) is set for 16 January 2026. The final list of candidates will be published on 19 January 2026, ahead of the election on 20 June 2026. BAO’s particulars will be uploaded to INEC’s portal starting 28 November 2025.”

The caucus further stated that those spreading false narratives are supporters of Kayode Ojo, who have failed to understand the party’s internal processes. 

“Many of them did not properly defect to APC to participate in party activities, while others skipped the mandatory membership revalidation exercise held between August and October 2025,” the caucus said.

“Instead of preparing, they remained on social media, spreading lies and propaganda, including absurd claims that primaries would be held in Abuja, ignoring both the party’s guidelines and INEC’s timetable,” it added.

“Even after the primary election concluded, the winner was announced, and the name forwarded to the National Working Committee (NWC), Ojo’s supporters continued to cling to the fantasy that he, screened out and absent from the primary, could somehow appear as the party’s candidate,” the caucus said, describing these actions as the delusions of people hallucinating about relevance in a contest that has long been settled.

The APC Integrity Caucus urged the public to disregard falsehoods and rely solely on verified sources for accurate information ahead of the Ekiti 2026 Governorship Election.

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Kayode Ojo’s Men in Trouble as INEC PRO Vows to Report False Claims to DSS, Police

Alhaji Taiwo Gbadegesin, former INEC Public Relations Officer (PRO) in Ekiti, has vowed to report individuals spreading false statements attributed to him to the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Police. He warned that any attempt to tarnish his reputation could trigger legal action.

The controversy follows claims by associates of Engr. Kayode Ojo suggesting that the APC is delaying the submission of its governorship candidate’s particulars for the 2026 Ekiti State election because it has internal issues. 

One of Ojo’s media men had been quoted as saying that Alhaji Gbadegesin stated in a radio interview, "Parties that have not submitted names might have intentions to change candidates or issues to sort out."

Gbadegesin, however, firmly debunked the report, clarifying that he has been stationed in Lagos since December 2021 and formally disengaged from the Ekiti office. He emphasized that he has not granted any interviews in Ekiti recently, especially in light of personal circumstances following the passing of his wife.

"I'm requesting information about individuals spreading false information about me. I've been stationed in Lagos since December 2021 and have formally disengaged from the Ekiti office. I'm concerned that some individuals may be attempting to damage my reputation, especially as I plan to retire from the Commission soon.

The author of the fake report should provide details of the interview, including the time and radio station. In Lagos, interviews are carefully censored and require approval from the Hon. REC. I've not granted any recent interviews, especially given my personal circumstances following my wife's passing.

I'll be reporting this incident to the Police and DSS, and I request that you help verify the claim. Let's maintain peace and stability in Ekiti State, where I've served for 17 years." Gbadegesin said.

According to official timelines, the APC has completed all processes for the 2026 Ekiti governorship election. These include the sale of nomination forms, screening of aspirants, delegates congress, and the governorship primary held on October 29, and ratification by the National Working Committee (NWC) on October 30, 2025.

INEC’s nomination portal is set to open on November 28, 2025, and will remain accessible until December 22, 2025, with the final deadline for submission on January 16, 2026. Campaigns for the June 20, 2026 election are scheduled to begin on January 21, 2026.

The APC, through one of its media body, Renewed Media Agenda (RMA), later clarified that its timetable is fully aligned with INEC’s schedule and stressed that the party has completed all internal processes well before the official submission window. RMA noted that rumours of delays are unfounded and stem from individuals dissatisfied with the party’s primary outcomes.

“The APC has done its part and is simply waiting for INEC’s portal to open. No political party can submit a candidate before November 28, and everything is proceeding exactly as the law provides,” RMA said.

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Ekiti TUC Expresses Hope in Achieving Better Nigeria, Calls for Sober Reflection on Anniversary

The Trade Union Congress, TUC Ekiti State council has joined in the celebration of Nigeria's 65th Independence Anniversary and 29 years of the creation of Ekiti State.

The TUC in a statement by its Chairperson, Dr Omotola Farotimi noted that the anniversary was a time for sober reflection and a period to fashion out a way forward for Nigeria and Ekiti State.

"These past 65 years have presented us with many things to reflect on both on positive and negative sides. We experienced the civil war,  military regimes that came with so many challenges, religion and communal clashes which had devastating effects on our economic and political life as a people.

"The roads have not been rosy but neither Nigeria or Ekiti are stagnant, both of them are making progress so we should be grateful to God for how far He has led us".

Dr Farotimi stressed the need for leaders both at the National and Ekiti State to prioritize good living standards for citizens so that the country can be better for all.

The Ekiti State TUC Chairperson while celebrating workers in Ekiti State on the occasion assured that better days lie ahead for the labour force in the state.

"The objective of this present TUC Executive in Ekiti State is to ensure that the lives of our members become better . This is the oath we took on assumption of office and we will stand by it".

Dr Farotimi congratulated Governor Biodun Oyebanji and the Head of Service, Dr Folakemi Olomojobi on the State's 29th birthday expressing hope that the Governor's quality leadership would further propel Ekiti State to greatness and economic stability.

COM. FAROTIMI OMOTOLA PhD

TUC Chairman, Ekiti State Council

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