By Amb. Prince Michael Ogungbemi
Unity, Inclusion & Political Reconciliation
From the onset, Governor Oyebanji prioritized unity. He embarked on a deliberate reconciliation process post-election, reaching out to opponents—including those within PDP and SDP—to build harmony and avert partisan animosity. This move helped establish a peaceful and inclusive political climate in Ekiti .
Reflecting his inclusive stance, BAO stated, “I don’t see myself as governor of APC; I am the Governor of everybody in Ekiti State,” emphasizing “Election stopped the day I was sworn in.” The administration runs as a government for all, not just party members .
Accountability & Institutional Innovation
Oyebanji introduced 100-day stakeholder engagement sessions as part of his stewardship strategy—an accountability mechanism to report progress, gather feedback, and improve governance responsiveness .
The administration launched modern governance tools such as:
- Strategic Project Monitoring System for tracking deliverables across ministries
- Export Trade Desk within the Ministry of Investment, Trade & Industry, coupled with approved export guidelines and tech-focused capacities via partnerships like China-Africa Discourse Studies .
- Embracing fiscal discipline and transparency.
- Adopted the Mid-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) for responsible budget planning and quick service delivery.
- Strengthened revenue systems and procurement standards for clearer accountability.
- Creation of the Office of Community Communications to enhance citizen outreach and feedback, enabling broader public involvement in governance processes .
- Strengthening Institutions & Infrastructure
Key institutional reforms include:
- refurbishing the Governor’s Office,
- upgrading Data Centre & Jibowu Hall,
- establishing the Customary Court of Appeal, complete with judges’ vehicle provision for improved justice delivery .
Oyebanji undertook expansive infrastructure development, particularly in:
- Roads (e.g., flyover in Ado-Ekiti to ease congestion and boost safety)
- Rehabilitation efforts across rural and urban transport corridors . Economic Governance & Investment Mobilization
- Oyebanji has been proactive in improving the business environment:
- Ekiti secured a top ranking in the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council’s (PBEC) 2023 sub-national Ease of Doing Business report .
- He chairs both the Ekiti State Development & Investment Promotion Agency and the State Ease of Doing Business Council, reflecting personal commitment to attract local and foreign investments . Political Engagement & Party Democracy
In August 2025, Oyebanji formally declared his intention to run for a second term. At the APC State Secretariat, he emphasized internal democracy, encouraging aspirants to freely contest and maintaining unity within the party. He also urged citizens to register for voting in the 2026 election .
In regional politics, at the Southwest APC Assembly, Governor Oyebanji rallied support for President Tinubu’s reform agenda—urging regional solidarity and constructive collaboration with the presidency .
Legislative Dynamics & Representation
- Under BAO’s administration, Olubunmi (Bunmi) Adelugba became the first female Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly in November 2022—a historic move showcasing progress in gender inclusivity and legislative leadership .
- The Executive Council reflects a broad governance structure with numerous commissioners and special advisers across sectors—from health and education to investment and urban development—signaling administrative breadth and institutional support for Oyebanji’s agenda.
Overall, Oyebanji’s administration represents a convergence of inclusive politics, governance innovation, fiscal responsibility, and institutional strengthening. His tenure reflects a balancing act between party leadership and universal governance—emphasizing development, accountability, and unity across Ekiti State.
By Amb. Prince Michael Ogungbemi
Chairman, Ajoni LCDA, Ekiti State.