Oyebanji Makes History as First Ekiti Incumbent to Win Reelection

Njideka Ozoalor

ADO-EKITI — Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji has secured a second term, becoming the first incumbent governor in Ekiti State’s contemporary democratic history to win reelection, according to results announced June 21, 2026.

The All Progressives Congress called the victory “epic” in a press statement signed by National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka. The party credited the win to “Ekiti people’s confidence” in Oyebanji’s leadership and what it described as people-centered policies.

INEC conducted the election under heavy security presence. In its statement, APC commended the electoral commission and security agencies for what it termed a successful and peaceful process. Voter turnout appeared strong, with long queues reported at polling units across Ado-Ekiti, Ikere, and Ijero.

Oyebanji now faces four more years tasked with expanding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” at the state level. APC said it expects “more development and improved living conditions” under his second term.

The result breaks a decades-long pattern in Ekiti where no sitting governor had successfully returned to office.