Ekiti Guber Poll Likely to Be Among Most Peaceful in State’s History – Oyebanji’s Aide

 The Special Adviser on Media to Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Mr Yinka Oyebode, has expressed confidence that Saturday’s governorship election in the state will rank among the most peaceful in Ekiti’s history.

Oyebode stated this on Friday in Ado-Ekiti while receiving a delegation of media executives, attributing the peaceful atmosphere ahead of the poll to the inclusive political environment fostered by the state government.

According to him, Governor Oyebanji created a level playing field that allowed all political parties to campaign freely across the state without intimidation or restrictions.

He noted that previous elections in the state were often marred by tension and violence arising from the suppression of opposition activities by governments in power. However, he said the current administration had adopted a different approach by treating all residents equally, regardless of their political affiliations.

“Everyone in Ekiti enjoys equal rights and freedom irrespective of political, religious or cultural affiliations,” Oyebode said.

He argued that electoral violence is often a reaction to hostile political environments created by incumbent administrations, adding that the absence of such conditions in Ekiti has significantly reduced the likelihood of unrest.

Reviewing preparations for the election, Oyebode described Ekiti as one of the most peaceful states in the country and commended Governor Oyebanji for promoting unity and harmonious coexistence among political stakeholders.

He said the governor, as leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, had consistently preached peace throughout the electioneering campaign and encouraged political actors to conduct themselves responsibly.

“As we speak, former governors and major political leaders in the state interact freely under the leadership of the present governor. There has also been no complaint from opposition parties about being denied the opportunity to operate or campaign freely.

“These are clear indications that we are heading towards a peaceful and violence-free election,” he said.

Oyebode further credited the governor with bringing together key political figures across party lines to contribute to governance and the development of the state.

He cited the involvement of former governors and other prominent leaders in shaping critical government policies and programmes as evidence of the administration’s commitment to inclusiveness.

According to him, both the ruling party and opposition parties have enjoyed equal freedom to engage voters throughout the campaign period.

He also noted that beyond the deployment of security personnel, political leaders had played a crucial role in sustaining peace by consistently urging their supporters to shun violence.

“In every speech delivered by the governor, the message of peaceful conduct has remained central,” he added.

The governor’s spokesman expressed optimism that the prevailing atmosphere of peace and unity would encourage a high voter turnout and boost Governor Oyebanji’s chances of securing re-election.

He pointed to the impressive collection rate of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), saying nearly 91 per cent of registered voters had collected their cards ahead of the election.

Oyebode added that voter registration figures had also improved compared to previous electoral cycles, an indication of growing public interest in the democratic process.

He maintained that the broad support the governor enjoys from political leaders and their followers across the state reflects the impact of his administration and could positively influence the outcome of the election.