Ekiti Governor Oyebanji defends President Tinubu, debunks federal neglect claims and warns against political attacks over infrastructure projects
Ekiti federal infrastructure efforts have been unfairly criticized, says Governor Biodun Oyebanji, who has dismissed allegations of neglect by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as politically motivated falsehoods.
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Speaking during the annual Udiroko Festival in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, the governor strongly rebuked what he called “unpatriotic elements” attempting to incite public anger by misrepresenting the federal government’s commitment to Ekiti’s development.
“It is unfair for anyone to use the condition of one road to measure this government’s performance. The president is working for Ekiti,” Oyebanji stated.
Governor Oyebanji cited multiple ongoing federal road projects, including:
- Ado-Ikere-Iju-Ita Ogbolu-Akure Road
- Ijan–Afe Babalola University–Ado Road
While acknowledging minor delays, he assured residents that construction will continue and that presidential directives have prioritized these roads.
He urged patience, praising President Tinubu for his support despite economic constraints.
Oyebanji expressed dismay at members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti who are fueling discontent, especially those eyeing the 2026 governorship race.
He warned against sacrificing truth for political gain.
“We reject any narrative suggesting President Tinubu does not love Ekiti people,” he said, referring to recent comments from certain APC chieftains.
“We cannot repay kindness with wickedness.”
In a related development, the Ekiti State Government has raised an alarm over a planned social media onslaught targeting the governor.
According to media adviser Yinka Oyebode, over 150 influencers have been mobilized — allegedly with foreign currency — to launch a smear campaign.
The attackers, Oyebode said, include APC members who previously criticized the President using the Itawure-Aramoko-Igede road as a false symbol of neglect.
“This is a politically motivated attempt to stir unrest and assassinate character ahead of the APC primary,” he noted.
Security agencies and the public have been put on alert, with the government promising a firmer response than in previous cases.
With the APC governorship primary set for October, tension is building.
Governor Oyebanji is widely considered the frontrunner and enjoys the backing of all living former governors of Ekiti State, including:
- Niyi Adebayo
- Ayodele Fayose
- Segun Oni
- Kayode Fayemi
However, businessman Kayode Ojo — a former challenger and current Pro-Chancellor of UNN — is being urged by some supporters to run again.
As Ekiti approaches a pivotal political season, Governor Oyebanji called for decorum and unity, reminding citizens of his lifelong commitment to the state’s development.
Also read: Major Shake-Up in Ekiti State Executive Council as Governor Oyebanji Drops Commissioners
“Let us not allow politics to divide our truth. The President is supporting us, and we must support him too,” he concluded.
