Ekiti Governor Oyebanji Dismisses Social Media Critics Post-Re-election Victory

Following his successful re-election, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji strongly addressed detractors and opposition members, stressing that true electoral success is forged in physical polling units, not on digital social media platforms.

In a video clip released by Channels Television on its official X handle this past Sunday, Governor Oyebanji declared his triumph as a testament to the electorate's will, positing that leaders who demonstrate effective governance inevitably secure the populace's backing. He remarked, “There is a saying that a farmer who has diligently tilled the ground does not need to fear the day of harvest.”

Taking a clear jab at his critics, Oyebanji noted that some individuals had prioritized online activities over genuine grassroots political engagement. He stated, “Chalatants that have not done anything, they are busy on social media, there are no polling units on social media. And that is my answer to all the shenanigans on social media.”

According to the Governor, an administration's performance remains the ultimate factor in achieving electoral success. He further elaborated, “If you have done well, people will vote for you. But if you don’t have anything to say, other than to be going to media houses to grant interviews, telling lies against the government, stay on social media and whipping up sentiments, yesterday was the day of reckoning.”

The Governor also hinted that those who financed opposition campaigns would now have cause to reflect on the election outcome. “I think there must be a reason, there must be a reason to tell the sponsors why they have lost,” he added.

In a separate video from the briefing, Oyebanji extended his gratitude to the voters of Ekiti, indicating that the state was entering a fresh phase defined by consensus, peace, and collaborative efforts. He said, “Ekiti has taken a new course and is the dawn of a new era where consensus building, peace and harmony have become the trading currency of our political engagements. I therefore want to commend the Ekiti electorate for choosing us and the tendency that we represent. I thank you for your confidence in us.”

Promising an acceleration of achievements during his renewed tenure, Governor Oyebanji declared that “the best has just begun.” He pledged to redouble efforts in implementing his administration's programmes and enhancing the welfare of residents, affirming, “With this renewed mandate, I can only assure you that the best has just begun. We will rededicate ourselves even more strongly in implementing a shared prosperity agenda. We will speed up various projects and programs that are ongoing. We will work harder and smarter to serve you better.”

He concluded by reiterating his administration's commitment to addressing economic hardship and social inequality within the state. PUNCH had previously reported that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the election, securing 319,224 votes across all 16 local government areas. His closest contender, Olumayokun Oluyede of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), garnered 40,533 votes, while Dare Bejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) received 12,872 votes.