2026 Polls: Oyebanji assures Ekiti residents of decency, transparency, security

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has assured residents that his administration will ensure the 2026 governorship election is conducted with the highest standards of decency, transparency and fairness, stressing that democracy must reflect the genuine will of the people without intimidation or manipulation.

The governor gave the assurance on Tuesday evening at the 2025 Ekiti State Government Carol Service held at the Obafemi Awolowo Civic and Convention Centre, Ado-Ekiti. He said the government would not tolerate violence or any actions capable of disrupting peace before, during or after the election.

Reaffirming his commitment to democratic values, Oyebanji urged aspirants across political parties to focus on presenting their programmes and policies to the electorate, whom he described as the ultimate decision-makers, while reminding them that power ultimately comes from God.

“As we approach 2026, an election year, I have pledged before God and the people that we will conduct the election with decency and strict adherence to the Electoral Act,” he said, adding that his ambition was not worth the blood of any Ekiti person.

He further assured residents of adequate security throughout the electoral period and appealed to political actors to eschew violence and engage the people peacefully.

Reflecting on the state’s achievements in 2025, the governor highlighted progress in infrastructure, healthcare, education and security, attributing notable economic improvements in Ekiti State to the support and interventions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Oyebanji expressed appreciation to the President for his continued support, disclosing that contractors had been mobilised to commence work on the Itawure–Aramoko–Ado road, while the Ado–Ikere–Iju–Itaogbolu–Akure road is expected to be completed and commissioned in the first quarter of next year.

Speaking on the significance of Christmas, the governor called on residents to show compassion, remember the less privileged and strengthen unity, a message echoed by Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, and the Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Ekiti, Rev. Fr. Assumpta Ajayi, who urged generosity, love and selflessness during the festive season.