Ekiti 2026: Why we are pushing for massive turnout despite Oyebanji’s edge – Kolawole

As Ekiti State prepares for Saturday’s governorship election, a prominent supporter of Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s re-election bid, Babatunde Kolawole, has dismissed suggestions that voter apathy could undermine the poll despite widespread perceptions that the incumbent enjoys a commanding advantage.

Mr Kolawole, a legal practitioner and South-west Youth leader of Arise for Tinubu 2027, said supporters of the governor were focused not merely on securing victory but on achieving an overwhelming mandate that would reflect public approval of the administration’s performance.

Speaking in reporters over the weekend, Mr Kolawole rejected the notion that the election outcome had already been decided.

“I don’t agree that the result is already known,” he said. “The fact that many people believe the current governor is likely to win based on his performance, which has been widely applauded, does not in any way mean the election is already concluded.”

The lawyer argued that Governor Oyebanji’s achievements in office had generated goodwill across the state, with many residents eager to grant him another term.

According to him, the focus of the governor’s supporters is to translate that goodwill into votes at the ballot box.

“What we are trying to do in Ekiti right now is not just to win the election; it is to make a statement,” Mr Kolawole said.

He disclosed that supporters of the governor are targeting victories across all polling units and wards in the state, describing the exercise as an opportunity for voters to publicly endorse the administration’s record.

“We want to win all the polling units and all the votes possible. People must come out and vote. It is not enough to say the governor has done well. Voting is the only way to demonstrate that you want him to continue for another term,” he added.

Mr Kolawole said extensive mobilisation efforts were ongoing to ensure a high turnout on election day, insisting that supporters should not stay away from the polls simply because the governor is considered the favourite.

“If people believe he has performed well and deserves another term, they must come out and express that through their votes. That is the agenda right now — to achieve a large turnout and secure a strong mandate,” he said.

The June 20 governorship election has been shaped by an unusual political consensus around Mr Oyebanji, who has received endorsements from several influential political figures, including former governors Niyi Adebayo, Ayodele Fayose, Segun Oni and Kayode Fayemi.

The governor, who is seeking a second term, has repeatedly urged supporters to avoid complacency and participate actively in the electoral process.

Political observers say turnout could be one of the key indicators of voter enthusiasm in an election widely viewed as a referendum on the incumbent’s first term in office.