In a bold display of political solidarity, Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele has declared the full support of the National Assembly Caucus from Ekiti State for Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s re-election bid.
Speaking to party stakeholders in Iyin Ekiti, Bamidele emphasised that the entire National Assembly delegation, including the Senate and the House of Representatives members, is united in backing Oyebanji’s quest for a second term in office.
Bamidele, reassured the Governor that the National Assembly would continue to work closely with him to deliver the much-needed developmental projects for Ekiti State.
“We stand firmly on the same page with you, Your Excellency. We are committed to ensuring that Governor Oyebanji secures a resounding victory in the upcoming elections,” Bamidele declared.
A firm believer in collective success, Bamidele stressed the importance of focusing on progress, rather than indulging in petty political rumblings.
“There will always be those who profit from crisis, but I want to make it clear, we will not allow them to distract us from our mission,” Bamidele stated, recalling how some of his political rivals had attempted to sow discord by spreading rumours that he was planning to contest against the sitting governor.
In a heartfelt message of appreciation to the Governor, Bamidele reflected on the remarkable moment they shared at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja when Governor Oyebanji submitted his re-election forms. “Your Excellency, sitting next to you that day was an honour. It confirmed that we are on the right path, and together, we will achieve great things for Ekiti.”
As Bamidele spoke to party faithful, he reiterated that Governor Oyebanji’s leadership style has been transformative, pointing out that the state’s development is not built on crisis but on collaborative partnerships.
“We don’t profit from crisis, and as a collective, we will achieve so much when we focus on unity and progress,” he added.
The Senate Leader also highlighted the Governor’s excellent approach to governance, particularly his proactive efforts to engage National Assembly members early in his tenure to prioritise projects that benefit Ekiti residents.
According to Bamidele, Governor Oyebanji’s engagement with the National Assembly caucus and his openness to collaboration have been key factors in the successful attraction of federal projects to Ekiti State.
While some members of the ruling party (APC) have publicly criticised the Governor’s performance, Bamidele made it clear that criticism is a welcome development in a democracy.
“We are focused on the bigger picture, and those who want to politicise every issue will know the true position of development in the State when the campaign start” Bamidele remarked.
In a powerful conclusion to his address, Bamidele reaffirmed the National Assembly’s unwavering commitment to Governor Oyebanji’s second term, declaring, “Governor Oyebanji and his deputy, Christianah Monisade Afuye, are a winning team. You don’t change a winning team.”
Bamidele also made a motion at the gathering, urging stakeholders to endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election bid. The motion was overwhelmingly supported by party members, reinforcing the unity and commitment of Ekiti’s political leadership to both Oyebanji’s and Tinubu’s re-election campaigns.