Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State on Tuesday received his Certificate of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following his victory in last Saturday’s governorship election.
The certificate was presented at the INEC headquarters in Ado-Ekiti by the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr Bunmi Omoseyindemi, who represented the Chairman of the commission, Prof. Joseph Amupitan.
Speaking during the presentation, Omoseyindemi congratulated the governor-elect on his re-election and commended the people of Ekiti State for their peaceful conduct throughout the electoral process.
He noted that the successful conduct of the election demonstrated the commitment of INEC and other stakeholders to strengthening democracy and good governance in the state.
The REC also urged political stakeholders to continue to uphold democratic principles and support efforts aimed at deepening the nation’s democratic culture.
The event was attended by party leaders, government officials, traditional rulers and supporters of the governor.
In his acceptance speech, Oyebanji expressed gratitude to the people of Ekiti State for renewing his mandate, describing the victory as a collective triumph for democracy, development and effective governance.
The governor said his re-election marked a significant milestone, noting that he had become the first governor in the state’s history to secure consecutive electoral victories through the ballot box.
He assured residents that he would not take the confidence reposed in him for granted and pledged to remain committed to delivering the dividends of democracy.
Oyebanji also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his support and commitment to democratic governance, saying the President’s leadership had continued to inspire confidence across the country.
The governor-elect further thanked leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil servants, youths, women groups, security agencies and election officials for their roles in ensuring a peaceful and successful election.
According to him, the renewed mandate represents a call to greater service and dedication to the welfare and progress of the people of Ekiti State.
He pledged that his administration would continue to implement policies that promote inclusive growth and sustainable development across all sectors.
Oyebanji added that his government would build on the achievements recorded during his first term and further deepen the implementation of the state’s Shared Prosperity Agenda.
He assured residents of increased investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture and job creation as part of efforts to improve living standards and accelerate development across the state.
