…Cites Performance, Inclusive Governance
Former governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ekiti State, Otunba Yinka Akerele, has declared his support for the re-election of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, pledging to mobilise his political structure and supporters across the state for the governor’s victory in the June 20, 2026 governorship election.
Akerele made the declaration during a meeting at the Governor’s Office in Ado-Ekiti, where he formally aligned with Governor Oyebanji’s second-term aspiration alongside a large delegation of political associates and stakeholders drawn from across the state.
The delegation comprised former members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, former local government chairmen, former secretaries of local governments, and other political leaders from various parts of the state.
Speaking during the meeting, Akerele said his decision was informed by the remarkable achievements recorded by the Oyebanji administration across critical sectors, as well as the governor’s inclusive leadership style, which, according to him, has fostered unity, stability and broad-based development in the state.
He noted that Governor Oyebanji has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people, infrastructure development, workers’ welfare and the promotion of harmonious relationships across political, social and economic divides, adding that these qualities have endeared the governor to many Ekiti people regardless of political affiliation.
Akerele said his decision followed wide consultations with his associates and supporters, stressing that backing Governor Oyebanji’s re-election was in the best interest of Ekiti State and its continued progress.
He consequently pledged the full support of his political structure and supporters for the success of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming governorship election.
Responding, Governor Oyebanji welcomed Akerele and members of his group, describing their decision as a demonstration of patriotism and a shared commitment to the continued development, peace and prosperity of Ekiti State.
The Governor said he was encouraged by the growing support his administration continues to receive from individuals and groups across political divides, noting that such endorsements reflect the confidence of the people in the direction and achievements of his administration.
He assured Akerele and his supporters of their full integration into the APC and reiterated his commitment to a style of governance that accommodates diverse interests and places the collective welfare of Ekiti people above partisan considerations.
Also speaking, the APC State Chairman, Barrister Sola Elesin, assured Akerele and members of his group of equal opportunities within the party and pledged the cooperation of the party leadership towards their seamless integration.
Among those who accompanied Otunba Akerele to the meeting were Hon. Idowu Akinbode, former Chairman of Ekiti South-West Local Government, former Local Government Party Chairman and former State Organising Secretary; Hon. Cecilia Ebiesuwa, former Chairman of Emure Local Government and former Local Government Party Chairman; Hon. Ojo Ayeni, former Chairman of Oye Local Government and former State Treasurer; Hon. Fatai Adeyemo, former Secretary of Ado Local Government and former Personal Assistant to the Governor; Hon. Yinka Olomofe, former Chairman of the party in Ado Local Government and former Special Adviser on Water Resources; Hon. Bunmi Adebiyi, former Chairman of Ise/Orun Local Government and former National Ex-Officio and others
Other dignitaries present at the meeting included the APC State Chairman, Barrister Sola Elesin; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Niyi Adebayo; Rt. Hon. Karounwi Oladapo; Mrs Kemisola Olaleye and Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun.
