The BAO Agenda 2026 Group on Thursday in Ado Ekiti released a rebuttal to the recent accusations leveled against the Ekiti State Governor Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji by a so-called “concerned elders and youth” of the APC in Ekiti State stressing that they are not only unfounded but also reek of politically motivated mischief.
State coordinator of the group hon.Moshood Lawal (Bamayi) in a press release by the Public Relations Officer PRO Ms Yewande Aribasoye on behalf of the group stated that It is disheartening that faceless groups, hiding behind anonymity, would attempt to tarnish the reputation of a leader who has consistently demonstrated unwavering commitment to democratic principles, party unity, and good governance.
He noted that the claim that Governor Oyebanji has shown “disdain” or “disrespect” toward President Bola Tinubu and the APC National Working Committee (NWC) is outright false. The governor has always operated within the party’s guidelines and maintains a strong working relationship with the national leadership. In fact, Governor Oyebanji has publicly aligned with the APC’s decisions, including supporting the party’s zoning arrangements for key legislative positions.
The assertion that he is “closing the democratic space” is baseless. The governor has repeatedly stated his willingness to participate in a free and fair primary if he chooses to seek re-election, affirming his belief in internal democracy .
On the allegations of coercion-No Coercion, Only Voluntary Support the group noted.
The allegation that APC members were “coerced” into joining a committee for the governor’s re-election bid is a fabrication. Governor Oyebanji’s leadership style is inclusive and consultative, as evidenced by the unanimous endorsements he has received from APC stakeholders across all three senatorial districts. These endorsements were voluntary expressions of confidence in his administration’s performance, not forced adoptions.
Moreover, the governor has appointed individuals based on competence and merit, not political affiliation, including former opposition members who can contribute to Ekiti’s development . This is not an act of betrayal but a pragmatic approach to governance.
The group stated further that the suggestion that Governor Oyebanji is engaging in “premature self-succession” ignores the reality of Nigerian politics, where early political engagements are commonplace. The governor has not officially declared his re-election bid, and any preparatory activities by supporters do not equate to a violation of electoral laws.
Contrary to the accusers’ claims, Governor Oyebanji’s administration has recorded significant achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and workers’ welfare. Examples include:
– Implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage for workers, one of the first states to do so .
– Construction of the Ado-Iworoko-Ifaki dual carriageway and other critical road projects .
– Revitalization of the Ekiti State Agro-Allied International Airport, now fully operational waiting for the final approval to operate commercial flights.
– Employment of over 4,000 civil servants and empowerment of 20,000 citizens in various sectors .
These accomplishments the group noted have earned him endorsements from traditional rulers, labor unions, and even opposition figures , proving that the allegations of “dismal performance” are politically motivated falsehoods.
Finally the insinuation that Governor Oyebanji is “afraid of scrutiny” is laughable, given his open-door policy and transparency in governance. His administration regularly publishes project costs and engages with stakeholders, reinforcing accountability .
Rather than desperation, the governor’s actions reflect a leader focused on continuity and development, not power for its own sake. The faceless nature of his accusers only exposes their lack of credibility—if they truly represent concerned APC members, why hide behind anonymity?
The BAO Agenda 2026 Group in driving home their points maintained that Governor Oyebanji remains a democratically accountable leader who respects the APC’s structures and the will of Ekiti people. These allegations are nothing more than a smear campaign by political detractors seeking to undermine his achievements.
The people of Ekiti know better—they have seen his work, felt his impact, and continue to stand by him.
