As the All Progressives Congress (APC continues it e-registration exercise in Ekiti State, a party chieftain, Dr Yemi Olayinka at the weekend urged all party faithfuls and Ekiti people in general to rally around the governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji in the coming June governorship election.

Speaking on Sunday to party members in Ward 8, Ado-Ekiti, where he took his message of support for the governor, Olayinka maintained that the administration has done very well for people and the state. The visit attracted party leaders, ward executives, youths , women and supporters. Dr Olayinka who holds a doctorate degree in linguistics formally registered with the party in his ward.

Addressing party faithfuls, Dr Olayinka said his presence was first and foremost to identify fully with the APC at the grassroots, describing Ward 8 as his political and ancestral home. “I came here primarily to register with the APC. Beyond that, I also came to greet my people because this is my home.It was important for me to visit them, interact with them, and encourage them to actively participate in the ongoing registration exercise,” he said.

He stressed that the registration drive was critical to the party’s electoral strength, noting that the APC is determined to record an unprecedented victory for Governor Oyebanji in the next election.

He said: “The importance of this registration cannot be overemphasised. We are working towards achieving a remarkable figure for the current governor. We want the next election to be outstandingly different from what we have seen before so much so that everyone will say, Wow, the people truly supported this man.’”

According to him, Governor Oyebanji’s performance in office in the last three years has earned him the goodwill and support of the people, adding that no vote should be taken for granted.

“He has done well, he has performed creditably, and he deserves overwhelming support. Every vote matters, and no opportunity should be left to chance. That is why we are encouraging our people: let everyone register, let everyone prepare, and let everyone come out to vote.”

As the June election approaches, the APC chieftain emphasised unity as the cornerstone of success, urging party members and residents of the state to work together in love and harmony. “My message to the people is simple but very important, unity. We must work together in oneness, unity, and love. According to the word of God, that is the foundation of true progress. When we work together in unity, we can achieve the kind of progress we never imagined possible, even in challenging times.”

Olayinka also addressed concerns over the prevailing economic hardship in the country, acknowledging the difficulties faced by many Nigerians but urging patience and understanding as reforms initiated by the Federal Government take effect.

“We are canvassing for people to register with our party, the APC, and I am aware that many Nigerians are currently experiencing economic hardship. However, if you look closely at the reforms being carried out by the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you will understand that these reforms are necessary.”

He explained that the reforms, though painful, were designed to rescue the country from economic collapse. “Before now, Nigeria was close to total collapse. These reforms, though tough, are essential. Yes, they come with hardship, but at the end of the process, there will be light,” he said.

“We are already beginning to see the rays of that light gradually, and things will get better. I urge people to be patient; the dividends of democracy will surely come from this administration.”

Speaking further, Dr Olayinka described Governor Oyebanji as a rare leader whose humility, wisdom and inclusive leadership style have set him apart from past administrations in the state.

“This particular governor is different from those we have had in the past,” he said. “If you look at the wisdom God has blessed him with, it is exceptional. His leadership style should be studied—how he was able to bring everyone together, from elders to political stakeholders, ensuring that everyone is on board and supporting him.”

He noted that the governor’s humility and lack of arrogance have translated into steady and sustainable development across Ekiti State.

“There is no arrogance in him; he is humble, hopeful, and focused. Through that approach, we are witnessing steady and gradual progress in our state—progress we have never experienced before,” Dr Olayinka said.

“That is what is truly impressive, and that is why I want him to continue.”

On his personal political ambition, the cleric-politician was cautious but confirmed that he was considering contesting for a seat in the House of Representatives in 2027.

“As for my personal aspiration, I do not want to speak extensively on it today. However, I can say that I am considering running for the House of Representatives to represent the Ekiti Federal Constituency 1, comprising Ado and Irepodun/Ifelodun federal constituency with the aim of contributing meaningfully to development and service.”

He also used the opportunity to urge residents to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), stressing that voter education and early preparation were key to effective participation in the electoral process.

“On the issue of PVC collection, I have consistently encouraged our people. They need motivation and proper sensitisation to understand the importance of their Permanent Voter Cards. We will continue to stir them up and educate them so they can collect their PVCs early and be fully prepared before the election.”

Party leaders in Ward 8 including the ward chairman, Tajudeen Arowolo commended Dr Yemi Olayinka for his visit and unmatched contributions to the growth of the community, party and the state as a whole.

They described his message as timely, pledging their commitment to the APC’s registration drive and to delivering massive votes for the party in the forthcoming election.

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