Ekiti Election: Fayose Congratulates Oyebanji on Historic Re-election, Commends INEC for Credible Process

The former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Peter Fayose, has extended warm congratulations to the incumbent Governor, Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), following his resounding victory in the Ekiti State governorship election held on Saturday, June 20, 2026.

Speaking with journalists on Sunday, Fayose described Oyebanji’s triumph as a landmark achievement, noting that his sweeping victory across all 16 local government areas of the state reflects the collective will of the people.

According to him, the outcome is a clear referendum by Ekiti citizens who overwhelmingly entrusted their mandate to the candidate they believe best represents their aspirations.

Fayose also praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) under the leadership of its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, for conducting what he termed a transparent, credible, and peaceful election.

He commended the Commission for deploying officials of integrity and ensuring that the process at polling units, wards, and local government levels was free of bias.

“The transparency, legitimacy, and peaceful conduct of the June 20 gubernatorial election in Ekiti State is commendable. The announcement of the final results by the Returning Officer, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, at the collation centre in Ado-Ekiti, further underscored the credibility of the process. INEC has demonstrated excellence under its new leadership, and they deserve appreciation for a job well done,” Fayose remarked.

Governor Oyebanji secured a decisive mandate, polling 319,224 votes, while his closest rival, Dr. Wole Oluyede of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), garnered 40,543 votes, and Dare Bejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) received 12,872 votes.

Fayose emphasized that the people’s overwhelming support is a testament to their confidence in Oyebanji’s leadership and capacity to deliver quality governance.

“Ekiti State is on the path to greater development under Governor Oyebanji. His re-election is proof of the people’s faith in his vision and performance. I am confident that he will continue to provide high-quality representation in the best interest of Ekiti Kete,” Fayose added.

Governor Oyebanji, 58, was first elected on June 18, 2022, and sworn into office in October of the same year. His 2026 victory marks a historic milestone, making him the first governor in Ekiti State to secure re-election as an incumbent.