Ekiti 2026: Oyebanji receives INEC certificate, vows greater prosperity

Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti received his certificate of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Tuesday, following his victory in the state governorship election held last Saturday.

Dr Bunmi Omoseyindemi, INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) who represented INEC Chairman Prof. Joseph Amupitan, presented the certificate to Oyebanji at the commission’s state headquarters in Ado‑Ekiti.

The REC congratulated the governor‑elect on his re‑election and praised the people of the state for conducting themselves peacefully throughout the electoral process.

He said the successful conduct of the election reflected the commitment of INEC and other stakeholders to strengthening democratic governance in the state.

Omoseyindemi urged all political actors to continue to uphold democratic values.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by party leaders, government officials, traditional rulers and supporters of the governor.

After receiving the certificate, Oyebanji expressed gratitude to the people of the state for renewing his mandate, describing the victory as a collective triumph for democracy, development and good governance.

He noted that his re‑election marked a historic milestone as he became the first governor to secure a back‑to‑back electoral victory in the state’s political history through the ballot.

Oyebanji pledged not to take the trust reposed in him for granted.

He specifically appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his support and commitment to democratic ideals, saying the president’s leadership had continued to inspire confidence in governance across the country.

Oyebanji also thanked the leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil servants, youths, women groups, security agencies and election officials for their contributions to the peaceful conduct of the election.

According to him, the renewed mandate is a call to greater service and dedication to the welfare of the people.

He added that his administration would continue to pursue policies that promote inclusive growth and sustainable development.

The governor‑elect pledged to build on the achievements of his first term and deepen the state’s “Shared Prosperity Agenda” for the benefit of all residents.

He assured the people of more investments in the areas of infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture and job creation in the years ahead. (NAN)