Political stakeholders in Ekiti State have unanimously chosen former Deputy Governor Chief Abiodun Aluko to chair the committee tasked with coordinating Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s endorsement for a second term in office.
The committee was inaugurated during a gathering of influential political, community, and opinion leaders from across the state in Ado Ekiti. The purpose of the committee is to manage a state-wide initiative confirming public support for Oyebanji to remain governor until 2030.
At the launch of the “BAO State Endorsement Committee,” Aluko noted that Oyebanji’s appeal for re-election is built on his tangible achievements and inclusive leadership.
He said the governor’s six-pillared ‘Shared Prosperity Agenda’ has been implemented with notable precision, gaining widespread approval across the various sectors of the state since he assumed office.
According to Aluko, Oyebanji’s administration has made a visible impact, which has effectively neutralised much of the internal opposition, with even previously critical figures now backing him.
“The governor’s influence is evident in every sector: from road development and healthcare infrastructure to support for workers and pensioners, agricultural investment, education, care for the elderly and vulnerable, and the development of human capital,” Aluko said.
“Support has been expressed by pensioners, artisans, labour unions, civil servants, traditional rulers, youth and women’s groups. Even apolitical individuals and groups across ethnic, religious and social boundaries have shown their support.
“Many believe he is heading into what may be the least contentious governorship election in the state’s history,” he added.
Aluko said the primary responsibility of the endorsement committee is to organise a major event to formally declare Oyebanji’s re-election bid and to ensure a smooth, peaceful process.
“Everyone is fond of BAO and his endorsement seems inevitable, but as elder statesmen, we must handle the situation with care. Proper management is both wise and responsible,” he said.
Other members of the committee include former Deputy Governor Prof. Modupe Adelabu and Elder Alaba Bejide as co-chairmen. Rt. Hon. Karounwi Oladapo, Hon. Folorunso Olabode and Hon. Seun Afuye serve as Secretary, Treasurer, and Welfare Officer respectively.
Also part of the committee are Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi, representing the state’s senators, and Rt. Hon. Femi Bamisile, representing members of the House of Representatives from Ekiti.
Additional members include Barr. Sola Elesin, the state APC Chairman; Hon. Dele Fatile; Comrade Segun Dipe representing the APC state executive; Evang. Ayo Kolawole, Chairman of the North Senatorial District; Hon. Bankole Odekun, Chairman of the Central Senatorial District; and Chief Akindele Akinbobola, Chairman of the South Senatorial District. Hon. Michael Akinleye represents the APC local government party chairmen.
Others are Hon. Olusegun Ojo of ALGON; State Women Leader Mrs Caroline Egunlusi; Mrs Akinwale Kikelomo and Mrs Omolabi Bolanle representing women stakeholders; High Chief Olajide Awe; Otunba Lekan Oyebanji; Rt. Hon. Stephen Aribasoye for the House of Assembly; Mrs Mary Oso-Omotosho for community representation; and Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun representing the media.
The initiative follows a series of endorsements from various groups and leaders across Ekiti, including the APC state caucus, the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), primary school teachers in all 16 LGAs, the state’s chapter of NULGE, students, youth groups, and traditional chiefs.
