The Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has said it is expedient for the electorate in the state to troop out in mass to participate in the June 20 governorship election.
Oyebanji, who said participation in the election would contribute to nurturing the country’s fledgling democracy and elevate it to an enviable pedestal, solicited the support of traditional rulers across the 140 towns for his second-term ambition.
The governor, represented by his deputy, Monisade Afuye, spoke at Ijero Ekiti on Monday while inaugurating the ultra-modern Palace of the Ajero of Ijero Ekiti, completed for the traditional ruler, Oba Joseph Adewole.
The deputy governor described the facility as part of the sustained efforts to add modernity to traditional institutions.
Afuye, who said that a second term would afford him the opportunity of consolidating democracy dividends for the populace, assured that he would not politicise the traditional institution.
She told the monarchs in attendance at the occasion, “Kabiyesis, the June 20, 2026, governorship election is another opportunity for the electorate to participate actively in the electoral system. We appeal to our people to be eager to participate as part of their sacred constitutional duties. We have witnessed good governance in the last three and a half years through concerted actions and sacrifices made by our leader and the pilot of the moving train, Governor Oyebanji.
“On this premise, let us file out on election day and renew his mandate, so that the ongoing development that is renewing our hope in government and service to humanity could continue till 2030 to consolidate democracy dividends for our people. We are also appealing to our traditional rulers to ensure peace in their domains by counselling the political actors and their backers to play by the rules, because we have no other state to run to, except Ekiti, which we all regard as our Jerusalem.
“I am indeed happy that part of the policies of Governor Oyebanji is manifesting here today, which is to ensure respect and comfort for traditional rulers, so that they can discharge their duties with utmost honesty, zeal and sincerity. It is on record that the present government had in the last three and a half years, installed 11 traditional rulers in various communities across the three senatorial districts in Ekiti State. We can boastfully say that the government neither imposes nor interferes in the selection processes leading to the emergence of these traditional rulers.
“Let me point out that Governor Oyebanji was of the unbending opinion that the selection of a king in any community remains the primary duty of the kingmakers and this accounted for why they were installed to undertake such a sacred traditional duty. This government is quite aware of this customary duty and has restrained itself from meddling in the selection process, so that there can be peace and stability in our communities. This has also ensured the maintenance and sustenance of respect for traditional institutions as strategic partners in governance.”
Oba Adewale, while tracing the trajectory of how the project began 30 years ago, showered encomium on Oyebanji for intervening in the speedy completion of the edifice, saying his financial contributions saved the situation.
The monarch predicted a landslide victory for the governor in the forthcoming governorship, saying he had performed excellently and commanded a strong support base to ensure his return for a second term.
Speaking on the significance of the palace to the town, Oba Adewole, said that the completion represented the symbol of resilience, commitment and industry the kingdom was known and respected for from time immemorial.
He said, “The foundation was laid 30 years ago. Though the completion was late, but we thank God for where we are today. We appreciate God. I thank those who contributed to the completion. You have made us proud. I know our forefathers will be proud of us today for this achievement”.
In August 2025, Oyebanji announced his intention to seek a second term in office.
He cited encouragement from traditional rulers, professional bodies, civil servants, artisans, youth groups, market women, drivers’ unions, and political leaders across party lines as factors influencing his decision to run again.
He added that the move was also aimed at consolidating the gains of his first term and continuing to deliver quality governance.
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