Ekiti: Mass adoption of Oyebanji for 2nd term does not shut door against willing aspirants – APC

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The Ekiti State branch of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has clarified that the widespread support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji by various societal groups does not prevent other interested individuals from participating in the party’s primaries.

The clarification came from the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Mr. Segun Dipe, during a visit to the Correspondents Chapel of the State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday.

Dipe explained that the governor had no role in orchestrating the wave of endorsements he has received. He attributed the growing support to Oyebanji’s strong track record and contributions as a representative of the party, dismissing claims by opposition members suggesting otherwise.

He added that despite the numerous public endorsements, the APC remains committed to running an open and inclusive process. He stressed that the party is determined to fulfill all its campaign pledges and will not leave anything to chance.

“Some might have been wondering why virtually everyone is rooting for the governor, but I think that is not his fault. It is not his making. Perhaps his performance is what is speaking for him, and yet, others are free and welcome to contest with him, if he eventually shows interest.

“Don’t also forget that the law allows people, including the governor, to show interest, because constitutionally, he has eight years tenure of two terms to run, if the people so permit him.

“The fact that the people are trying to re-present Oyebanji may have clearly shown that he has done quite a lot that attracted them, and it is believed that he does not have control over that. But I am insisting that as a party, all individuals are free to come and try their luck,” he said.

Dipe commended journalists in the state for their professionalism and fairness in covering political developments. He emphasized that journalism should always present all sides of a story.

“We are not begging for patronage, but stories must be balanced. When people or parties in the opposition speak, they call it news, but when the party in government speaks, they call it PR.”

He also mentioned that the party is continuing its membership drive and will not be complacent, despite being the ruling party in the state.

Speaking on the tenure of the current party executives, Dipe noted that they assumed office in 2021 and are expected to complete their term this year. However, he pointed out that any transition would ultimately depend on the decision of the party’s national leadership, emphasizing that “believing that no serious party will want to change the goal post, in the middle of the game”.

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