The Ohaneze Ndigbo in Ekiti State has honoured Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his inclusive leadership style to non-indigenous groups in the state.
The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation honoured the governor for his compassion and support to non-indigenes during the 2026 Igbo Cultural Day in Ado-Ekiti, which was attended by Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma and Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo.
Presenting the chieftaincy title “Ezigbo Enyi Ndigbo” (True Friend of the Igbos), President-General, Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo, Ekiti State/South-West, High Chief (Sir) Alexander Ndubuisi, KSJI noted that the state has witnessed transformation across all sectors of the economy.
While pledging to mobilise voters for his re-election in the forthcoming gubernatorial election, the President-General commended the governor for creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive in the state.
According to him, “Governor Oyebanji is a man whose leadership has transformed Ekiti State into various facets. He has continued to ensure that the good relationship between the people of the state and the Igbo resident in the state is sustained.
“It may not be out of place, His Excellency, to say that with the way your leadership has given due recognition to the Igbo in the state and ensuring conducive enabling business environment for those in one business or another.
“It is no exaggeration or flattering to assure you that these gestures will be reciprocated through our ballots on Saturday, June 20, 2026. Our people that cut across the nooks and crannies of the state are being sensitized and mobilized for this purpose.
“We commend your efforts towards tackling insecurity which has enabled lives and properties to be protected, and by extension making businesses to thrive. No development can be recorded in an atmosphere that is enveloped by insecurity.”
Responding, Governor Oyebanji expressed deep appreciation to Ndigbo for finding him worthy of the special title stressing that his administration is committed to extending support to non-indigenes in the state.
He applauded the Igbo’s for improving the economy of the state and urged them to vote for the All Progressives Congress in the June 20 governorship election, assuring to protect their interests.
His words: “I am short of words and I am extremely grateful to you. You did what you promised in 2022 and I have no doubt you will do more come June 20.
“I am so grateful for your love, understanding and for your patience with our administration. I am grateful for improving the economy of Ekiti State. I promise that I will do everything within my power to ensure that the interests of Igbo are protected.”
On his part, Chairman of Progressive Governor’s Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma tasked Ndigbo to stand behind Governor Oyebanji in the election and appreciated them for their support.
According to him, “We have seen what the governor is doing for Ndigbo and we expect you to reciprocate the gesture during the election. In spirit and oneness, I urge you to come out in your numbers on June 20.”
“What you need to know is that working for Governor Oyebanji is working for yourselves. You all should thrive and re-elect him because we are united in Nigeria under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.”
