By Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, PhD
Governor Monday Okpebholo on Monday joined fellow All Progressives Congress (APC) governors in Ado-Ekiti to rally support for Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, using the campaign flag-off to emphasise an issue-based approach anchored on performance and continuity ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
Okpebholo, who attended alongside Ahmed Usman Ododo, Hope Uzodinma, Uba Sani, Sheriff Oborevwori, and Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, aligned with the party’s position that the election should be determined by measurable governance outcomes rather than sentiment.
Ahead of the rally, the Edo governor accompanied the delegation on a courtesy visit to the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, where they received royal blessings and reiterated their commitment to a peaceful electoral process.
At the event, Okpebholo’s engagement underscored his support for continuity in Ekiti, as they highlighted the importance of sustaining development gains through stable leadership. His position mirrored the broader APC message that Governor Oyebanji’s record in infrastructure, security, and economic management provides a basis for renewed mandate.
Speaking on behalf of the APC Governors’ Forum, Hope Uzodinma described the gathering as a show of unity and solidarity, noting that the party remains cohesive and focused on promoting progress in Ekiti State.
The rally also attracted former Ekiti governors, including Ayodele Fayose, Segun Oni, Niyi Adebayo, and Kayode Fayemi, alongside party leaders, traditional rulers, and supporters.
In his remarks, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji urged residents to sustain support for ongoing reforms, linking the state’s development trajectory to the national agenda of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while insisting that the election should be judged strictly on performance.
The campaign flag-off signals the start of what is expected to be a closely watched 2026 governorship race, with Okpebholo’s participation reflecting cross-state APC backing and a shared commitment to a peaceful, credible, and development-focused contest.
