EkitiDecides2026: Oyebanji votes, confident of victory

• Acknowledges BVAS glitches in some units

Ekiti State Governor and candidate of the All Progressives Congress(APC) Biodun Oyebanji has cast his vote, expressing confidence that he would emerge victorious .

The governor voted at 11:38am at Ward 6, Polling Unit 003, Ikogosi-Ekiti, Ekiti West Local Government Area, after arriving the polling unit at about 11:23am alongside his wife, Professor Olayemi Oyebanji, who voted shortly before him.

Oyebanji, who joined the queue on arrival, went through the accreditation process before exercising his franchise in an orderly manner, as voters continued to cast their ballots peacefully at the polling unit.

Speaking with journalists after voting, the governor commended the conduct of the exercise, saying reports from across the state indicated a smooth electoral process, with impressive voter turnout.

“So far, reports across the state have been positive. The election is going on smoothly. People are exercising their franchise, and the turnout is impressive. I am glad that people listened to our call to come out and vote, because there is a link between today’s process and their future,” he said.

He commended the Independent National Electoral Commission and security agencies for their conduct, while acknowledging minor challenges reported in some areas.

“There may be glitches in any process, but I am satisfied with the assurances I have received that such issues will be addressed. I appeal to our people to remain patient with INEC and allow the process to be completed,” he added.

Oyebanji also urged voters and political actors to maintain peace and cooperate with electoral officials to ensure a credible outcome.

Oyebanji expressed confidence in securing victory, declaring that the APC would surpass its target of 500,000 votes.

He said the turnout and general reception across the state were indications that the party was well-positioned for a decisive victory, adding that the electorate had responded positively to its campaign messages.

“If the process continues this way, and everyone is able to vote, then we should cross the 500,000 votes target. I am confident of victory,” the governor said.

When asked on the complaint of intimidation by the candidate of the PDP, Oyebanji said it remains an allegations. “He who alleges must prove, so it’s in the realm of an allegation.”