Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, alongside former Deputy Governor Professor Modupe Adelabu and other prominent leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti Central, endorsed Governor Biodun Oyebanji as the party’s sole candidate for the 2026 governorship election on Monday.
The endorsement took place during a special senatorial meeting at the Fajuyi Pavilion in Ado Ekiti, with a motion passed by key leaders from the five local government areas in the district.
The endorsement was ratified through a resounding voice vote, led by influential figures such as Senator Babafemi Ojudu, House of Representatives members Hon. Biodun Omoleye and Sola Fatoba, and former Acting Governor Rt. Hon. Tope Ademiluyi.
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, in his address to a packed crowd, emphasized the importance of continuity in governance for Ekiti’s development. He praised Governor Oyebanji for uniting the state’s political leaders, saying, “The frontline and greatest achievement of Governor Oyebanji is being able to unite everybody under one platform and umbrella.” He further stated, “We are very lucky having Governor Biodun Oyebanji as our governor. Ekiti has never had it so good.”
Bamidele also referenced the historic struggles between previous Ekiti governors, noting that Oyebanji’s leadership has successfully brought together leaders from all factions. “All the achievements that Ekiti made under these past leaders are being consolidated under Governor Oyebanji,” he added.
Professor Modupe Adelabu, Chairman of Ekiti Central APC Stakeholders, clarified that while the endorsement is significant, it does not prevent other APC members from contesting for the governorship seat. She emphasized, “What the endorsement means is that Oyebanji will get full and solid backing from all APC members in the district.”
Senator Babafemi Ojudu echoed these sentiments, highlighting Oyebanji’s efforts in unifying the party and fostering development through key initiatives like the Adire Ekiti Hub. Ojudu expressed his admiration for Oyebanji’s leadership, stating, “This is the first time since 2003 when everybody will sleep with two eyes closed without fear of being killed in Ekiti.”
In his response, Governor Oyebanji expressed deep gratitude for the endorsement. “I am moved, very touched by this endorsement and I appreciate you from the bottom of my heart,” he said.
While thanking the APC members and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their support, Oyebanji reiterated his commitment to serving Ekiti, stressing, “We are not afraid of competition.”
The event was attended by several high-profile dignitaries, including Deputy Governor Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye, and other APC leaders and stakeholders.
This endorsement follows a similar gesture from the party leaders in the South senatorial district late last year.