Vice President Kashim Shettima on Monday led a last-minute campaign push for the reelection of Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) held its grand finale mega rally ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.
Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu at the event in Ado-Ekiti, described the APC joint ticket of Governor Oyebanji and his deputy, Chief Mrs. Monisade Afuye, as one built on balance, experience, and continuity.
Addressing a large crowd at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, the Vice President said the election was not just a routine political contest but a defining moment in the state’s development journey.
“The task before you is simple, sacred, and historic. Go out and vote,” Shettima said. “Continuity in Ekiti is not a favour to one man. It is an investment in the peace, progress, and future of this state.”
He urged residents to mobilise support for the APC candidate, stressing that Oyebanji had demonstrated commitment to inclusive governance and people-focused leadership.
According to him, the governor has governed with “calm strength,” humility, and respect for institutions, while focusing on building trust and delivering services across sectors.
“In Governor Oyebanji, Ekiti has a son who came prepared. He came with knowledge of the land and respect for the people,” Shettima said, adding that the administration has prioritised infrastructure, welfare, and stability.
The Vice President also praised the unity within the APC, contrasting it with what he described as internal crises in opposition parties.
He said the ruling party’s cohesion was the result of discipline and shared purpose among its leaders.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who also spoke at the rally, described Oyebanji as “the most friendly parliamentary governor in Nigeria,” saying his performance merited a second term.
“On election day, when you get your ballot paper, look for the broom,” Akpabio said, referencing the APC symbol.
APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, also commended the governor’s achievements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, urging voters to support continuity in governance.
Governor Oyebanji, in his remarks, thanked President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for their support and expressed appreciation to the people of Ekiti for the mandate given to him.
He appealed for a peaceful election, urging residents to avoid violence before, during, and after the polls.
“I don’t have much to say other than to thank the people of Ekiti State. We made a social contract with you to serve, and we have done so with the help of God,” Oyebanji said.
He called on voters to support the APC, describing the election as an opportunity to sustain ongoing development efforts in the state.
Earlier, the Vice President paid a courtesy visit to the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe, where he commended the traditional institution for its role in preserving cultural heritage and supporting governance.
The monarch expressed appreciation to the federal government for initiatives in education and infrastructure development, including the student loan scheme, while pledging continued support for the administration.
Shettima also met with members of the Ekiti State Traditional Rulers Council, where he reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to strengthening traditional institutions and promoting development across the state.
