Politics
Ikogosi Backs Oyebanji With ₦25m, Mobilises Grassroots for Re-election
… Community pledges rallies, voter education in mobilisation drive
By Joseph Sunday
Ikogosi-Ekiti, hometown of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, erupted in grassroots enthusiasm as the Ikogosi Progressives Union (IPU) and Oyebanji Age Group, Egbe Ayonimofe, backed his re-election with a ₦25 million campaign package—while pledging rallies and voter education to mobilize supporters.
At a well-attended community engagement held at the Governor’s residence in Ikogosi, the IPU led the charge with a ₦20 million donation, alongside 200 customised shirts and face caps.
Egbe Ayonimofe contributed ₦5 million, sending a strong signal of consolidated community backing ahead of the polls.
Speaking on behalf of the IPU, its President, Mr. Agbaje Olusola, described the gesture as more than financial support.
He called it a firm political endorsement of a leader they described as Ikogosi’s pride and a proven performer.
Mr. Olusola cited the Governor’s achievements in infrastructure renewal, social investment, and inclusive governance.
He noted that Oyebanji’s administration has remained firmly rooted in grassroots engagement.
On its part, Egbe Ayonimofe, led by its President, Deacon Ojo Ogunsesin, reaffirmed its confidence in the Governor’s leadership.
Deacon Ogunsesin described him as a unifying force and dependable ally of the community.
He attested to the fact that Governor Oyebanji consistently participates in the monthly contributions of the age group.
The Governor regularly hosts their meetings, strengthening unity and trust.
In a further demonstration of support, both groups unveiled plans for high-energy rallies across Ikogosi and neighbouring communities.
These rallies aim to deepen grassroots mobilisation and expand support for the Governor.
They also announced a major community rally scheduled for May 2, 2026.
The groups formally invited the Governor and members of his campaign council to the event.
The rally will serve as a platform for voter education and public sensitisation.
Beyond political mobilisation, Egbe Ayonimofe disclosed plans for voter education initiatives, including sensitisation on political awareness and party identification.
They stressed the need for citizens to clearly distinguish between political platforms ahead of the elections.
Speaking on behalf of the campaign Council, Chief Alaba Abejide described the contributions as a resounding vote of confidence in Governor Oyebanji’s leadership and rising popularity.
Chief Abejide commended the donors for their display of affection, support, and loyalty.
He prayed for their continued progress and prosperity.
In his response, an emotionally moved Governor Oyebanji expressed deep appreciation for the heartfelt demonstration of loyalty, love, and shared ownership of his administration.
He assured the groups that their support would further strengthen his resolve to deliver greater dividends of democracy across Ekiti State.
“I will not take this trust for granted,” the Governor said.
He reaffirmed his commitment to deepen development efforts and sustain progress across critical sectors.
Further underscoring the political significance, the Director of Media and Communications of the Biodun Oyebanji Campaign Council, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun, said the donation and planned rallies reflect the Governor’s deep acceptance at the grassroots level.
Olatunbosun noted that support from communities like Ikogosi continues to grow steadily, driven by trust in Oyebanji’s leadership and visible impact.
He added that the people remain firmly aligned with him as the election approaches.