Governor Biodun Oyebanji has restated that the June 20, 2026 governorship election in Ekiti State must be conducted peacefully, declaring that no political contest is worth the blood of any citizen.
“The election doesn’t worth shedding the blood of any innocent Ekiti soul,” the governor said, urging all political actors to play by the rules and prioritise the state’s collective interest.
Oyebanji made the remarks in Ayede Ekiti during the unveiling of a new palace edifice and birthday celebration in honour of the Attah of Ayede Ekiti, Abdulmumini Adebayo Orisagbemi. He was represented at the event by Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye.
The governor appealed to traditional rulers to intensify peace-building strategies ahead of the election, warning against individuals who may attempt to exploit the campaign season to foment unrest. He also challenged the electorate to participate actively and responsibly in the poll, stressing the need to elect leaders capable of promoting Ekiti’s collective interest.
Highlighting his administration’s respect for the traditional institution, Oyebanji described monarchs as strategic partners in the state’s development agenda. He commended their efforts in maintaining peace, which he said has positioned Ekiti as one of Nigeria’s most investment-friendly states.
At the ceremony, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, lauded the governor for fostering synergy with traditional rulers and promoting unity across communities. He described the new palace as a landmark achievement and urged Ayede indigenes to support their monarch in accelerating development.
In his remarks, Oba Orisagbemi expressed appreciation to the governor for completing the palace project, which he said he began five years ago but nearly abandoned due to financial constraints. According to him, the project goes beyond physical infrastructure, symbolising the preservation of culture, identity, and heritage.
Reaffirming support for the governor, the monarch praised Oyebanji’s respect for the traditional institution and pledged continued cooperation, noting that the administration’s inclusive approach has strengthened the bond between government and royal fathers across the state.
