Shaibu salutes Oyebanji over re-election

By Jude Opara

The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has facilitated with the Governor Biodun Oyebanji after his re-election in the just held Ekiti state governorship election.
Shaibu in a statement released by his S. A. Media Ben Ogbemudia following the official declaration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), described the governor’s victory as an endorsement of his administration’s performance and a reflection of the confidence the people of Ekiti state have in his leadership.
He said Gov. Oyebanji’s re-election stands out as a significant milestone in the political evolution of Ekiti state, noting that since the creation of the state in 1996, the governorship has witnessed intense political competition, with administrations changing through elections, judicial interventions, and other democratic processes.
The former deputy governor of Edo state further observed that several former governors, despite serving their states with distinction, were unable to secure uninterrupted continuity in office, as political transitions often resulted in changes of leadership after a single tenure or through post-election legal contests.
According to him, Gov. Oyebanji’s successful return to office through the ballot is historic and a notable democratic achievement deserving of commendation.
“The people of Ekiti State have spoken with one voice through the democratic process. Your re-election is a reflection of the trust and confidence they have in your leadership, your development agenda, and your commitment to improving the lives of the people,” Shaibu stated.
The NIS boss further noted that the victory demonstrates the growing maturity of democracy in Ekiti state, where citizens continue to exercise their constitutional right to choose leaders based on performance, vision, and capacity.
He commended the electorate, INEC, security agencies, traditional rulers, political stakeholders, and election observers for their roles in ensuring a peaceful and credible electoral process.