Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has dismissed rumours of a rift between him and his predecessor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, affirming that their relationship remains cordial.
Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Secretariat in Ado Ekiti on Monday, Oyebanji officially declared his intention to seek re-election in the 2026 governorship election.
His visit to the secretariat followed speculations of a disagreement, particularly after Fayemi was absent at a recent endorsement event held in support of Oyebanji and President Bola Tinubu.
Addressing the issue, the governor said, “In Ekiti APC, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo remains our leader, followed by Dr Fayemi, and then myself. I respect the structure, and that’s why we hold meetings in their hometowns, not mine.”
He further emphasized that there was no internal division within the party leadership and that all former governors were united in moving the state forward.
While declaring his second-term ambition, Oyebanji said he had served the APC and the people of Ekiti well, listing his achievements in infrastructure, security, and welfare.
“In just one year, we’ve invested N130 billion in roads and infrastructure — an amount equal to the state’s total budget three years ago,” he said.
The governor also noted his administration’s inclusive approach to governance, which he said had helped maintain peace and ensure proper use of state resources.
“I hold no grudges against anyone, and I have no special caucus within the APC,” he added, while urging party leaders to tour the state to verify the administration’s achievements firsthand.
Governor Oyebanji used the occasion to express gratitude to President Tinubu for his support to Ekiti State and called on party members to work for the President’s second-term bid in 2027.
Accompanying the governor were Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, Speaker of the House of Assembly Adeoye Aribasoye, SSG Prof. Habibat Adubiaro, Chief of Staff Niyi Adebayo, and Political Adviser Chief Jide Awe, among others.
