Paragraph 1: A Call for Peace Amidst Rising Political Tensions
Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji addressed the state in a special broadcast, expressing deep concern over the recent surge in political violence. He attributed this unsettling development to the desperation of some individuals vying for the governorship in the upcoming 2026 election. Oyebanji emphasized the state’s established reputation for peace and tranquility, noting its recognition as the most peaceful state with a low crime rate, earning numerous awards and accolades. The recent incidents of political thuggery, therefore, represented a disheartening setback that must be addressed promptly and decisively.
Paragraph 2: Unmasking a Coordinated Campaign of Disruption
The governor revealed that intelligence reports had alerted his administration to a planned media assault orchestrated by individuals from outside the state. This campaign was intended to denigrate his government through a barrage of false accusations and negative propaganda. While the initial assessment focused on media attacks, it soon became apparent that the scheme encompassed a more sinister element: premeditated violent actions. This revelation underscored the gravity of the situation and the need for a firm response to safeguard the state’s peaceful character.
Paragraph 3: A Plea for Unity and Restraint
Governor Oyebanji appealed directly to political leaders across the state, urging them to exert their influence and rein in their supporters. He stressed the paramount importance of prioritizing the peace and unity of Ekiti above individual political aspirations. While acknowledging the right to engage in peaceful political activities, he warned that security agencies would remain vigilant and would not tolerate any actions that threatened the state’s hard-earned reputation for peace and progress. The governor reiterated his personal commitment to the peace and unity of Ekiti, emphasizing that these principles were not mere slogans but deeply held beliefs that guided his actions.
Paragraph 4: Maintaining Decorum and Avoiding Provocation
In a direct address to his own supporters, Governor Oyebanji implored them to maintain peace, conduct themselves with exemplary behavior, and refrain from engaging in acrimonious exchanges, regardless of provocation. He emphasized that his political aspirations paled in comparison to the precious lives of Ekiti citizens. The governor made it unequivocally clear that any involvement in violence by his supporters would be unacceptable and contrary to the values he espoused. He underscored the importance of maintaining a peaceful and respectful political environment, even in the face of potential antagonism.
Paragraph 5: Addressing Infrastructure Concerns and Combating Misinformation
The governor also addressed concerns regarding the condition of some federal roads in the state. He acknowledged the need for urgent attention to these roads but also highlighted the availability of alternative routes for commuters while the federal government worked on their rehabilitation. Oyebanji cautioned against succumbing to the manipulative tactics of those seeking to exploit the road situation for political gain. He emphasized that Ekiti was not the only state facing infrastructure challenges and expressed confidence in the federal government’s commitment to address the issue in a timely manner. He urged citizens to remain patient and refrain from engaging in unproductive blame games.
Paragraph 6: Navigating Political Tensions and Allegations
Governor Oyebanji’s recent declaration to seek re-election has further intensified the political climate in Ekiti State. His bid for a second term has sparked controversy within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), leading to allegations of a coordinated social media campaign against him by disgruntled party members. Adding to the complexity, another APC aspirant for the 2026 election, Kayode Ojo, accused Oyebanji of employing intimidation tactics to stifle competition and consolidate his grip on the party. Ojo’s allegations of threats against local party officials paint a picture of increasing political tension and raise concerns about the fairness and transparency of the upcoming primaries. These developments underscore the challenges facing the governor as he navigates the complex political landscape in his pursuit of re-election.
