APC Governors Hail Ekiti Election as Blueprint for Future Polls
The Chairman of the Progressive Governors' Forum (PGF) and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, alongside Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, have hailed the recently concluded Ekiti State governorship election as a model for future elections in Nigeria, particularly the 2027 general elections. They described the re-election of Governor Biodun Oyebanji as a clear endorsement of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governance agenda and a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu's administration.
Oyebanji's Landslide Victory Marks Historic First
Governor Biodun Oyebanji was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the early hours of Sunday, polling 319,224 votes. His closest rival, Wole Oluyede of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), secured 40,543 votes, while the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Oluwadare Bejide, came a distant third with 12,872 votes. This victory marks the first time a sitting governor in Ekiti State has secured a second term in office.
Uzodinma: Victory Reflects Confidence in Tinubu's Policies
Speaking at the Ekiti State Government House shortly after Oyebanji's emergence, Governor Hope Uzodinma emphasized that the election outcome is a testament to the people's appreciation for outstanding performance and the growing strength of Nigeria's democracy under the ruling party. He commended President Tinubu's leadership, stating that his policies are increasingly being appreciated across the nation. "We are indeed very happy that we have won. We are also pleased that the people have shown their appreciation for the outstanding performance of Governor Biodun Oyebanji," Uzodinma said. He added, "The massive turnout of our supporters in Ekiti State and their overwhelming support for our governor are a clear demonstration of confidence in his leadership and performance." Uzodinma further noted, "We are happy as a party. We are happy as progressive governors. We are proud that one of our own has demonstrated that good governance yields positive results." He also congratulated Nigerians for their patience and resilience amid the challenges facing the nation under APC leadership, praying for continued perseverance and support as the party works to make progress as a nation.
Abiodun: Peaceful Conduct Sets Standard for 2027
Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun lauded the electoral process as a model for future elections in Nigeria. He praised INEC and security agencies for conducting a free, fair, and transparent exercise devoid of violence. "This is the first time in the democratic history of Ekiti State that a sitting governor has won re-election back-to-back and done so in such a convincing manner," Abiodun stated. He added that the peaceful conduct of the election indicates what future polls, including those of 2027, could look like. "Everything went very well. This is an indication of what future elections, including those of 2027, could look like. We are very excited about the future of democracy in Nigeria," Abiodun said. He extended congratulations to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, his wife, the entire cabinet, the APC family in Ekiti State and across Nigeria, and indeed all Nigerians.
Election Outcome as Endorsement of APC Governance Agenda
Both governors highlighted that Oyebanji's landslide victory serves as a clear endorsement of the APC's governance agenda and a vote of confidence in President Tinubu's administration. Uzodinma emphasized that the party is proud that one of its own has demonstrated that good governance yields positive results, reinforcing the party's commitment to delivering on its promises to Nigerians. The election in Ekiti State is seen as a significant milestone for the APC, showcasing the party's ability to retain power through performance and democratic processes.
