Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has hailed the re-election of Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in the November 16, 2024, gubernatorial election as a resounding vote of confidence in the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Governor Aiyedatiwa, who contested under the APC banner, was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after the collation of results concluded on Sunday.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, Governor Oyebanji described the victory as an endorsement of good governance under the APC’s administration in Ondo State and highlighted the people’s trust in the party’s leadership. He praised the electorate for supporting the APC since it came to power in Ondo in 2016, attributing the success to verifiable governance achievements.
“This triumph places a renewed responsibility on Governor Aiyedatiwa to intensify efforts in delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Ondo State, who have shown unwavering support,” Oyebanji noted.
The Ekiti governor also emphasized that the victory reflected Nigerians’ faith in President Tinubu’s socioeconomic policies, expressing optimism that the administration’s programs would lead to lasting development and economic prosperity.
He commended APC’s National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje; the Progressive Governors’ Forum; the APC National Campaign Council; and other stakeholders for their contributions to the electoral success.
Oyebanji lauded Ondo residents for their peaceful conduct during the election and praised INEC for improvements in election administration, especially the prompt release of results. He also recognized the professionalism of security agencies in ensuring a smooth electoral process.
He urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to remain magnanimous in victory by reaching out to his opponents for inclusive governance. Oyebanji specifically thanked Ekiti indigenes in Ondo for supporting Aiyedatiwa and expressed confidence that they would benefit from the governor’s leadership.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Ekiti State, I congratulate my dear brother, Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa, on this well-deserved victory. We look forward to a stronger partnership between our states for mutual benefit,” he said.
Oyebanji also extended congratulations to President Tinubu for his leadership and efforts in improving the electoral process, as well as to the APC and the people of Ondo for choosing continuity under the party’s governance.