The official flag-off of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s re-election campaign held on Monday, April 27, at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, drawing thousands of supporters in an atmosphere many described as electrifying.
The massive turnout surprised even seasoned observers and signals strong momentum for Oyebanji ahead of the June 20, 2026 governorship election. Governor BAO is calm, committed, honest, competent, focused, passionate, resilient, courageous, and confident and his first term proves he embodies all these qualities.
Beyond its political weight, the rally delivered a visible economic boost. Hotels reached full occupancy, restaurants were filled to capacity, and petrol stations recorded increased patronage. Photographers, decorators, artists, and hawkers also leveraged the influx of visitors, turning the capital into a hive of commercial activity.
Governor Oyebanji has been commended for fostering unity among Ekiti’s political elite. All four living former governors .Otunba Niyi Adebayo, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, Engr. Segun Oni, and Dr. Peter Ayodele Fayose attended the flag-off, a rare show of consensus achieved through his calm and strategic leadership.
Fayose’s presence was particularly striking. Though not a member of the ruling APC, the PDP stalwart mounted the podium to endorse Oyebanji. Known for his dramatic style and controversial approach, he once again commanded attention.
Before speaking, Fayose conspicuously ignored the APC’s broom symbol. As he began, the crowd erupted into chants of “Oshokomole,” welcoming him with overwhelming enthusiasm.
“I am not a member of the APC,” Fayose said. “But BAO is too good not to support. After his re-election, opposition politics will resume. But for now, I am for BAO.”
The crowd responded with louder cheers. After his brief speech, he exited, leaving a moment that will dominate political conversation in the state.
His endorsement, however, raises questions. Doing the right thing in a questionable context does not necessarily make it entirely right. While supporting Oyebanji may be a smart move, doing so from an opposing party invites scrutiny. Was it reconciliation, a test of his enduring popularity, or a calculated political move?
Judging by the crowd’s reaction, one thing is certain, his influence remains strong. It would not be surprising to see his political presence resurface more prominently soon. Whatever his intentions, his appearance served as a reminder that “Oshokomole’s” connection with the people of Ekiti is far from fading.
Victor Ogundipe
Sec Gen
IIJ Ekiti Students Union
