Progressive Governors’ Forum Chairman and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma joined Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo in Ekiti State over the weekend, rallying Igbo and Kogi communities to deliver overwhelming support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji at the June 20 governorship election, while the Peoples Democratic Party raised concerns about the political climate ahead of the poll.
Uzodimma addressed the annual cultural day celebration of the Igbo community in Ekiti at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado Ekiti, describing Oyebanji as a bridge-builder and an inclusive leader who had created a peaceful and business-friendly environment for all residents regardless of ethnic or religious background. He said continuity in office would enable Oyebanji to consolidate his development gains and sustain the prevailing atmosphere of peace, unity, and prosperity in the state. He said the support the community had given to Oyebanji was also support for the APC and for President Bola Tinubu.
Ododo addressed a stakeholders’ forum organized by Ebira, Igala, and Okun communities at Eagle Hall in Ado Ekiti, commending the governor for his commitment to unity, security, and development, and calling on Kogi indigenes across the state to remain steadfast in their support for his re-election.
Oyebanji expressed appreciation to both communities for their contributions to the economic and social development of Ekiti State and assured them that his administration would continue to provide a conducive environment for businesses and residents to thrive.
Separately, PDP deputy governorship candidate Ayodeji Ogunsakin said at a press conference in Ado Ekiti that reports of arrests, detentions, and other incidents involving party supporters in some parts of the state had generated anxiety among opposition members and supporters. He called on political leaders, security agencies, and public institutions to uphold democratic principles and guarantee an atmosphere in which citizens could freely exercise their constitutional rights ahead of the poll.
