Oyebanji, Fayemi call for unity ahead of APC governorship primary in Ekiti

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has called for unity and peaceful conduct among members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the party’s governorship primary scheduled for October 27. He made the appeal on Saturday during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Iyin-Ekiti, the hometown of the state’s first civilian governor, Adeniyi Adebayo.

The governor, along with at least three other aspirants, has obtained the party’s expression of interest and nomination forms to contest the APC ticket for the June 20, 2026 off-cycle governorship election. He stressed the importance of the primary as a foundation for the general election and long-term political stability in the state.

Oyebanji expressed his ambition to become the first governor in Ekiti to serve two consecutive terms, noting that lack of continuity has hindered the state’s development. “By God’s grace and with your support, I intend to break the jinx. We must take the primary seriously because it determines our future,” he said.

He urged party members to avoid internal conflict, emphasizing that dissent is natural in politics but must be handled with maturity. “Let’s not fight ourselves. There will be October 28 after October 27, and we’ll need everyone. Even those who disagree now should be welcomed later,” he added.

Former Governor Kayode Fayemi also addressed the meeting, cautioning members against assuming victory too early. He said real political work happens at the grassroots, not on social media. “Elections aren’t won on WhatsApp or Twitter. We must return to our wards and mobilize voters,” Fayemi said.

He stressed that loyalty to the party should come before personal preferences. “If you’re truly APC, even if you have issues with Oyebanji, you can’t wish the party to lose. Let him win first, then raise your concerns,” he advised.

Fayemi also warned against complacency, saying the primary is just the beginning of a longer battle. He urged members to stay focused and committed to ensuring the party retains power in 2026.

The meeting was attended by party heavyweights, including former Governor Adeniyi Adebayo, members of the State Working Committee, federal and state lawmakers, and leaders from all three senatorial districts of Ekiti.